An extraction system with two independent clamping elements, enclosing between themselves, each for approximately one half, a housing for the capsule. A clamping element is connected to the extraction system and on either side of the the extraction system, allowing the extraction system to be pivoted from the position away from the vertical plane to the vertical position and to be closed and opened. A lever system is connected to the clamping elements, enabling the user to work the the elements. The extraction system, the clamping elements, and the lever system preferably work together on a machine-supporting frame. The device also can include a mobile water inlet system above the system for the extraction of the contents of the capsule between the two clamping elements.

The present invention relates to a method for extracting the contents of a capsule that has a plane of symmetry. The invention also relates to a device for implementing the method.
It is prior art to extract the contents of a closed cartridge. Patent EP 242,556 relates to a device for the preparation of a drink by extracting the contents of a cartridge placed in a cartridge holder for a coffee machine. The drawback with this device is that it comprises a water-injecting member which is a pointed member, and which consequently pierces the cartridge. This piercing of the cartridge is no longer desired, partly because it necessitates the presence of an expensive pointed member, and partly because it causes coffee grounds to move back up the said pointed member.
The object of the present invention is to develop a method and a device in which water can be supplied to extract the contents of a capsule, without tearing the said capsule, in the case of a sealed capsule. The invention also can be used to extract the contents of an open capsule.
The present invention relates to a method for extracting the contents of a capsule that has a plane of symmetry, in which the said capsule is placed in the housing of an extraction system consisting of two clamping elements that enclose between themselves, each for approximately one half, the said housing, in such a way that it is positioned in the system in a plane away from the vertical plane, the said capsule is moved into a vertical plane, in such a way that it is imprisoned leaktightly in the said system, and in such a way that a liquid inlet arrives over the top of the said capsule, and the contents of the said capsule are extracted and the coffee flows out from the bottom of the said capsule.
It is possible in accordance with the invention to extract the contents of both open and sealed capsules. As regards an open capsule, this refers to a plastic capsule or sachets of filter paper and nonwovens. The contents of the capsule are a powdery substance for the preparation of a drink, selected from roasted and ground coffee, tea, instant coffee, a mixture of instant and ground coffees, a hot chocolate product or any other dried substance suitable for consumption.
In the case of sealed capsules, it is possible to extract the contents of the capsule forming the subject-matter of patent application PCT/EP98/03826, namely a sealed flexible sachet in the form of an individual portion designed to be extracted under pressure and containing roasted and ground coffee, the sachet consisting of two identical flexible sheets or a single folded flexible sheet of circular, oval or polygonal form enclosing between the two sheets or between the two faces of the folded sheet a space for the coffee and the two sheets or the two faces of the folded sheet are stuck together around their perimeter in such a way that the said sachet is essentially symmetrical about its joining plane, and the sachet is opened merely by the increase in pressure occasioned by the injection of the extracting fluid, in which the two flexible sheets or the two faces of the folded sheet are extended on one side of the said sachet beyond their join line in order to form between the said sheets or between the two faces of the folded sheet a channel through which the extracting fluid can be introduced, the said channel being approximately perpendicular to the join line to which it leads. The method is not however limited to this kind of capsule and can be used on any capsule with a plane of symmetry and in which the sheets forming the capsule are sealed.
In the method of the invention, the extracting fluid is raised to a pressure sufficient to unseal the two sealed sheets at the point where the said fluid arrives. In practice, the two clamping elements must grip the capsule adequately if the capsule is to resist the increase in pressure during extraction and must provide a good seal around the point where the extracting fluid arrives. The contents of the capsule are normally extracted at a pressure of between 2 and 10 bar, preferably of about 6 to 8 bar on raised and hollow portions situated on at least one of the faces of the clamping elements.
For satisfactory extraction of the coffee from the capsule, a certain amount of time is required for the extraction. However, neither should the extraction take too long, as the consumer wants to keep within the times required for the extraction of conventional espresso coffees. The method according to the invention will normally extract 250 to 300 cm3 per minute.
The advantage of having a method whereby the capsule whose contents are to be extracted is placed in a housing on a plane away from the vertical plane is that in this case the consumer no longer has to hold the capsule holder and engage it in clamping bars. The consumer has merely to place the capsule whose contents are to be extracted in the housing and close the extraction system: this therefore eliminates all risk of disturbance, wrong positioning and the like.
The invention also relates to the device for implementing the method described above. In one embodiment, the device comprises:
an extraction system consisting of two independent and identical clamping elements, enclosing between themselves, each for approximately one half, a housing for the capsule,
clamping means connected to the extraction system and on either side of the said extraction system and allowing the said extraction system to be pivoted from the position away from the vertical plane to the vertical position and closed and opened, and
a lever system connected to the said clamping means mentioned above and enabling the user to work the said means,
the extraction system, the clamping means and the lever system working together on a machine supporting frame and the device also comprising a mobile water inlet system above the system for the extraction of the contents of the capsule between the two clamping elements.
The two clamping elements have seals around the edge of the housing to ensure that the capsule whose contents are to be extracted is gripped firmly. The clamping means must allow a move from the inclined position of the extraction system to the vertical position, while also allowing the two clamping elements to come satisfactorily together, both in order to hold the said capsule properly and to prevent leaks (leaks are especially to be avoided in order that during extraction the seal between each face of the said capsule does not give). The lever allows the user to open and close the extraction system. The result is that the consumer has a very simple task to perform, namely to insert the selected capsule and pull the lever forwards, as explained in greater detail below.
Clearly, when the lever is pulled forwards for extraction, the water inlet must come down at the same time to the top of the extraction system. The water inlet pipe does not need to be fitted with a needle: it is only necessary that the pipe is so positioned that leaks cannot occur, and it is only the pressure of the water that forces its way through the seal of the capsule at the point where the water arrives.
It is possible according to the invention to provide a housing for the capsule of variable size. This means that the capsules for one cup or capsules for two cups can be used, with a mobile water inlet system that adapts itself accordingly.
In the case of a sealed capsule, during extraction, that is when the hot water is entering the capsule, there is a pressure increase inside the said capsule: to produce an opening, there must be raised and hollow portions present in the clamping elements so that a tension sufficient to rupture the material forming the capsule is built up against the said raised and hollow portions. It may be envisaged that one or both of the clamping elements contains raised and hollow portions.
The clamping means that are useable in accordance with the invention may be variously constructed. In one particular embodiment, these clamping means consist of
a clamping rod connected at one end to one of the two clamping elements, halfway along the length of the said element,
an L-shaped clamping lever that is connected at its mid-point to the other end of the clamping rod, is connected to the second clamping element also halfway along the said element and is connected to a master rod, and
a master rod, one end of which slides in a guide at the bottom of the supporting frame on a positioning pin, the other end being connected to the lever system.
In a second embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises:
an extraction system consisting of two independent clamping elements, enclosing between themselves, each for approximately one half, a housing for the capsule, the first clamping element comprising on either side perpendicularly and in the middle of the said element an arm with a translational guide and at the end of the said arm a guide pin and the second element comprising on either side and in the middle of the said element a clamping pin,
clamping means connected to the extraction system and on either side of the said extraction system and allowing the said extraction system to be pivoted from the position away from the vertical plane to the vertical position and closed and opened, and
a lever with two sides extending from the operating bar of the said lever, the latter being connected to the said clamping means mentioned above and enabling the user to work the said means,
the extraction system, the clamping means and the lever working together on a machine supporting frame and the device also comprising a fixed water inlet system above the system for the extraction of the contents of the capsule between the two clamping elements.
As in the first embodiment, the two clamping elements have seals around the edge of the housing to ensure that the capsule whose contents are to be extracted is gripped firmly. The clamping means must allow a move from the inclined position of the extraction system to the vertical position, while also allowing the two clamping elements to come satisfactorily together, both in order to hold the said capsule properly and to prevent leaks (leaks are especially to be avoided in order that during extraction the seal between each face of the said capsule does not give). The lever allows the user to open and close the extraction system. The result is that the consumer has a very simple task to perform, namely to insert the selected capsule and pull the lever forwards, as explained in greater detail below.
When the lever is pulled forwards, at the time of the extraction, the extraction system moves up towards the fixed water inlet system. The consumer places the selected capsule between the two elements of the extraction system and draws the lever forwards, which imparts a translational movement of the first clamping element and then concomitantly an upward movement of both clamping elements towards the fixed water inlet system.
In this embodiment the clamping means are simpler than in the first embodiment. They consist of a master rod, on either side of the lever system and connected at one end to the end of the arm of the said lever and at the other end to a translational and clamping pin of the first clamping element which is situated approximately in the middle of the said first clamping element, the supporting frame of the machine comprising on either side
a translational and clamping guide for the said translational and clamping pin,
a guide for the guide pin of the first clamping element and
a clamping guide for the clamping pin of the second element.
The operation of the device will be explained in greater detail in relation to FIGS. 6 to 9. Each side of the lever forms an elbow with first and second arms, the angle of the elbow is between 100 and 140xc2x0 and the axis of rotation of the said lever is at the intersection of the first and second arms and situated above the supporting frame of the machine. If the device is considered in the closed position, the axis of rotation of the said lever is approximately in the plane of contact between the two clamping elements of the extraction system. The guide for the guide pin of the first clamping element forms an angle of between 0 and 50xc2x0 with the horizontal plane.
The first arm of the lever must be long enough to allow the user to operate the movement of rotation of the said lever without interfering with the rest of the machine, that is with the supporting frame of the said machine. This first arm is normally between 8 and 15 cm long. The second arm of the lever is between 20 and 40 mm long.
The first clamping element has a translational and clamping pin which engages as indicated above with a translational and clamping guide. This guide forms an elbow having an angle of between 100 and 150xc2x0.
As in the first embodiment of the device according to the invention, this second device can be used for open capsules as well as for sealed capsules. In the case of sealed capsules, one or both of the clamping elements comprises raised and hollow portions.

Method and device for extracting the contents of a capsule


A system is provided for generating an accurate and stable output clock signal of a desired output frequency in response to a system clock signal having a system clock period. The system uses an accurate and stable reference clock signal. The system comprises a measuring circuit and a ratio counter. The measuring circuit receives and processes the system clock signal and produces a measurement, referred to as the system clock measurement, that is indicative of the system clock period. The ratio counter receives the system clock signal and the system clock measurement and generates the output clock signal. The system is resistant to noise in the output clock signal caused by asynchronicity between the system clock signal and the reference clock signal. The system is resistant because it employs at least one of a lock-on unit and a synchronizing controller in operating the clock measuring circuit. The lock-on unit suppresses updating of the system clock measurement if a new measurement differs from the old measurement by no more than a window size. The synchronizing controller assures correct synchronization in the clock measuring circuit despite the asynchronicity of the system clock signal and the reference clock signal by enabling counters within the measuring circuit within a time window of each other.

The invention relates generally to clock circuits and more specifically to circuits for interfacing subsystems having different timing characteristics and tolerances.
In communications systems, such as those for broadcasting, teleconferencing, computer networking, etc., various kinds of modulation techniques are used. Use of these modulation techniques typically requires the availability of precise and accurate modulation frequencies. With the advances of integrated circuit technology, it is increasingly popular for communication systems to apply digital techniques for data/signal processing and data transmission. Therefore, the ability to generate accurate frequencies in synchronous digital systems is essential.
Different modulation standards stipulate greatly different accuracies for modulation frequencies. For example, in telecommunication systems, the frequency of system clocks is typically constrained by international organizations such as CCITT to have errors of no more than 0.01 percent, whereas system clocks of, for example, graphics systems for Personal Computers (PCs) may be in error by as much as 0.25 percent without violating relevant specifications.
With regard to terminology, an "accurate" clock is one that possesses a specified, nominal frequency, and a "stable" clock is one that does not vary in frequency over time, for example, despite temperature fluctuations in a circuit. The terms "accurate" and "stable" will sometimes be used in a relative sense to mean "more nearly accurate" and "more nearly stable," respectively.
There are applications in which a synchronous system with inaccurate clock frequency needs to communicate to another system that requires a predefined accurate and stable signal frequency. An example of such an application is the display of computer graphics onto standard television sets. As mentioned above, in a PC graphics system, the system clock need not be very accurate (system clocks can be off by as much as 0.25 percent). In contrast, a standard television set typically expects a subcarrier frequency that is accurate and stable to better than 100 parts per million (i.e., 0.01 percent). Hence, it is desirable to have a technique that can generate an accurate and stable signal frequency in a system with an inaccurate system clock frequency while maintaining system synchronization. In particular, it is desirable that the generated signal be synchronous with the system clock.
It is apparent that it would be impractical to try to derive any accurate signal frequency directly from an inaccurate system clock. However, if an accurate and stable reference frequency is available, then techniques and systems exist which can derive an accurate and stable frequency based on the reference clock while remaining synchronous with the inaccurate system clock. One such system is found in the "Chrontel CH7001 VGA to NTSC/PAL Encoder" integrated circuit product (CH7001), Chrontel, Inc., San Jose, Calif.
FIG. 1 illustrates at a high level the clock generator of prior art systems similar to the system in the Chrontel CH7001 product. The clock generator includes a clock measuring circuit 10 that produces a system clock measurement Nr 15. The system clock measurement Nr 15 is a digital value, and is provided to a P:Q ratio counter 20 that generates, in response to Nr 15 and a system clock 25, an output clock signal 30 of output frequency Fo. The output frequency Fo is related to the system clock frequency Fs by the equation: EQU Fo=P/Q*Fs (1)
wherein Q is a constant parameter of the P:Q ratio counter 20 and: EQU P=Nr (2)
As Equation 1 shows, the P:Q ratio counter produces an output clock whose frequency Fo is a function of the system clock frequency Fs and the parameter P, where P is the system clock measurement Nr. The P:Q ratio counter is explained in more detail below in the detailed Description of Specific embodiments.
The clock measuring circuit 10 includes a system counter 35, which receives the system clock signal 25 and counts a predetermined number Ns 40 of transitions therein to delimit a test time period using a timing signal 45. A reference counter 50 receives and counts transitions in an accurate, stable reference clock signal 55 (typically, a crystal-based clock signal) of frequency Fr during the test time period. At the end of the test time period, the output 60 of the reference counter 55 is latched into a buffer 65 to be provided as the system clock measurement Nr 15 to the P:Q ratio counter 20. A controller 70 is coupled to control operation of the system counter 35, the reference counter 50, and the buffer 65. The controller 70 may be coupled (not shown) to receive the system clock signal 25 or the reference clock signal 55, depending on its design.
The relationship between Ns, Nr, Fs, and Fr of the clock measuring circuit 10 is given by: EQU Nr=Ns*Fr/Fs (3)
which represents the test time period, Ns*(1/Fs), multiplied by Fr, the number of reference clock periods per second. Combining Equations 1, 2, and 3 gives: ##EQU1## Equation 4 shows that, since Ns, Q, and Fr are well-defined, accurate and stable values, an accurate and stable Fo is generated. Furthermore, a desired Fo can be realized simply by choosing appropriate values of Ns and Q, given Fr. Note that typically, Fr >Fo. Note also that the value of Ns may be switched during operation to cause a new output frequency Fo to be produced by the system, even though the system has but a single reference clock frequency Fr.
Most importantly, the output clock frequency Fo can be realized regardless of the system clock frequency Fs. If the system clock signal is inaccurate but stable, then the system works well. Even if the system clock frequency Fs slowly drifts over time, the clock measuring circuit 10 will update the system clock measurement 15 to maintain a generally correct output frequency Fo (provided that the drift is slow in relation to the test time period).
It is important to note that the system clock measurement Nr 15 should change only in response to actual drifts in the system frequency Fs or to a change in the value of system parameter Ns. Fluctuation in the value of Nr caused by any other reason translates into an undesired shift in the value of the output frequency Fo, and therefore constitutes a type of instability in the output clock signal 30. For example, if within a stream of successive test time periods, the system clock measurement Nr were to fluctuate for one test time period, then, referring to FIG. 2, the actual output clock frequency 200 would also fluctuate by an amount .DELTA.Fo 210 for one test time period 220 from the steady, nominal frequency Fo(nom) 230. In consequence, if Fo is used as the modulation signal frequency of a communication system, a fluctuating output clock frequency Fo would be interpreted as "noise" in the receiver.
Unfortunately, Fs and Fr are not synchronous, and there will be some finite but small errors between the counts of the system counter 35 and the reference counter 50. The result of this error will introduce a fluctuation in Nr.

Method and apparatus for frequency generation in a synchronous system


A sub-pixel rendering method, comprising the following steps: acquiring a second pixel array corresponding to an original image, each sub-pixel of the second pixel array corresponding to a greyscale value; mapping the second pixel array of the original image onto a first pixel array; respectively finding the central positions of the sub-pixels of the first pixel array and of the second pixel array, determining sub-pixels of the second pixel array positioned in every sub-pixel preset region in the first pixel array and of the same colour as said sub-pixels in the first pixel array, and measuring the distance of same from the central position of said sub-pixels of the first pixel array; on the basis of the distance, calculating the proportional coefficient occupied by the sub-pixels of the second pixel array in the sub-pixels of the first pixel array, and on the basis of the proportional coefficient and the greyscale value of the sub-pixels of the second pixel array, calculating the greyscale value corresponding to each sub-pixel of the first pixel array. The preset sub-pixel rendering method is simple and easy to implement; few hardware resources are required, and software operation is rapid.

Regarding a conventional RGB pixel arrangement, three sub-pixels of red, green and blue constitute one pixel for restoring true colors. Moreover, a higher resolution can generate a better and more vivid display effect. Practically, the present process capability is unable to satisfy the increasingly high requirement for a resolution proposed in the market, and a sub-pixel with a smaller size cannot be fabricated. In other words, only a display panel with a low resolution can be fabricated, corresponding to a new pixel arrangement. In order to achieve a display effect of a high-resolution panel, a sub-pixel rendering method is required.
A new pixel arrangement necessarily requires a sub-pixel rendering method. The sub-pixel rendering method is applied to calculate data of the conventional RGB pixel arrangement and process the data into data of a new pixel arrangement.
Therefore, how to provide a sub-pixel rendering method for improving a display effect of a display device is a technical problem to be solved.

Sub-pixel rendering method and rendering apparatus


The present disclosure relates to a series of spirocyclic compounds of formula (I), their stereoisomers, tautomers, prodrugs, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, polymorphs, solvates, hydrates, N-Oxides, Co crystals and formulations thereof. The disclosure also relates to process of preparation of these spirocyclic compounds.

Diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase, also known as diglyceride acyltransferase or (DGAT), is found in the microsomal fraction of cells. DGAT plays an essential role in the metabolism of cellular diacylglycerol and is critically important for triglyceride production and energy storage homeostasis (Eu. J. Biochem. 1989, 182, 395-400). DGAT catalyses the final and rate limiting step in the triacylglycerol synthesis from 1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG) and long chain fatty acyl CoA as substrates (Lipid Res., 1996, 35, 169-201). Although triglycerides are essential for normal physiology, excess triglyceride accumulation results in obesity and, particularly when it occurs in non adipose tissues, is associated with insulin resistance.
Two DGAT genes (DGAT 1 and DGAT 2) have been cloned and characterized. Both the encoded proteins share no sequence homology but they catalyze the same reaction (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 1998, 95, 13018-13023; J. Biol. Chem., 2001, 276, 38870-38876). The enzymes are widely expressed; however some differences do exist in the relative abundance of expression in various tissues.
Studies in the gene knockout mice have indicated that pharmacological inhibition of DGAT1 would be of value in the treatment of Type II diabetes and obesity. DGAT1 knockout (DGAT1−/−) mice are viable and capable of synthesizing triglycerides, as evidenced by normal fasting serum triglyceride levels and normal adipose tissue composition. DGAT1−/− mice have less adipose tissue than wild type mice at baseline and are resistant to diet induced obesity. Metabolic rate is ˜20% higher in DGAT1−/− mice than in wild type mice on both regular and high fat diets (Nature Genetics, 2000, 25, 87-90). Increased physical activity in DGAT1−/− mice partially accounts for their increased energy expenditure. DGAT1−/− mice also exhibit increased insulin sensitivity. Thus phenotype of DGAT1 knock out mice suggests that DGAT1 inhibitors have utility for the treatment of obesity and associated complications like Type II diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
DGAT enzymes produce the fat that is stored in the droplets—important for HCV replication. DGAT1 interacts with one viral protein, the viral nucleocapsid core protein, required for viral particle assembly. The core protein normally associates with the surface of fat droplets but cannot do so when. DGAT1 is inhibited or missing in infected cells. Hence, HCV infection and viral particle production are severely impaired in liver cells that lack DGAT1 activity (Nature Medicine, 2010, 16, 1295-1298).
Several patent applications and publications describe the discovery of small molecule DGAT1 inhibitors (dibenzoxazepinones EP 1219716; substituted amino-pyrimidino oxazines, WO2004047755, amide compounds, WO2008011131; piperidine/piperazine derivatives, WO2008148840; pyrazine carboxamides, WO2010146395; oxadiazole and oxazole substituted benzimidazole and indole derivatives, WO2009040410; amino-dihydropyrido-pyrimidinone compounds, oxazole compounds, WO2010059602; US20100197590; substituted bicyclolactam compounds, WO2009016462; Imidazole derivatives, WO2012047772; WO2012009217, Spirocyclic compounds; Inhibitors of diacylglycerol acyltransferase: a review of 2008 patents, Expert Opin. Ther. Patents, 2010, 20(1), 19-29; J. Med. Chem. 2009, 52, 1558-1568; J. Med. Chem. 2008, 51, 380-383; J. Med. Chem., 2011, 54 (7), 2433-2446; ACS Med. Chem. Lett., 2011, 2 (5), 407-412; ACS Med. Chem. Lett., 2012, 3 (5), 411-415; Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 2012, 22, 3873-3878. WO2006064189 describes oxadiazole compounds as DGAT1 inhibitors. However, only few small molecule DGAT1 inhibitors are in clinical trials. For example, LCQ-908 from Novartis is in Phase 2 clinical trials for the treatment of HCV, hypertriglyceridemia and T2D. Pfizer and AstraZeneca have recently discontinued their DGAT1 inhibitors from Phase 1 clinical trials. No DGAT1 inhibitor has yet reached the marketing stage. Therefore, there remains a need for discovering novel DGAT1 inhibitors possessing desirable properties such as pharmacokinetic/dynamic and or physicochemical and/or other drug like profiles to advance into clinics.

Spirocyclic compounds, compositions and medicinal applications thereof

Abstract: These compounds are useful in the treatment, prevention, prophylaxis, management, or adjunct treatment of all medical conditions related to inhibition of acyl CoA diacyl glycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1).


The present disclosure describes systems, methods, and mediums configured to create a conversational email message. A computing device is configured to transmit an outgoing message from a sender to a plurality of recipients and create a conversational message by combining the outgoing message with a chronological listing of reply messages received from any of the plurality of recipients or the sender in response to a conversational email indicator. A memory device is configured to store the outgoing message or any of the reply messages.

A system may transmit an electronic mail message, e.g., an email, from a sender to a recipient over a network. The system may operate based on a store-and-forward model in which a server stores and subsequently forwards the electronic mail message for later retrieval by the recipient. The store-and-forward model eliminates a need for the sender and the recipient to be online simultaneously. Email may be considered an asynchronous form of communication since the recipient may retrieve and reply to the electronic mail message at any time.
One disadvantage of known systems is that when the sender transmits an electronic mail message to a group of recipients, each recipient may reply to the message asynchronous from other recipients, thereby creating multiple message branches or message threads that make it difficult to clearly follow the group's discussion. As the number of message branches or message threads grow, it becomes more difficult to clearly follow the group's discussion.

Systems, methods, and mediums configured to create a conversational email message


A unit for applying a product, in particular a cosmetic product, has an axis of symmetry (A), a movable part (110) provided with an applicator element for applying the product, a hollow fixed part (107), and flexible elements for connecting the movable and fixed parts. The movable part is capable for displacement along the axis (A). The connecting elements are constituted by at least one tongue (111) oriented in a plane substantially orthogonal to the axis (A). A first end (111a) of the tongue is joined to the movable part, a second end (111b) of this tongue is joined to the fixed part, and the dispensing of this product is effected via the movable part.

In the field of cosmetics, deodorant applicators have already been proposed, which use a liquid composition contained in a reservoir whereon is fixed a dispensing head that comprises an applicator dome made of a solid porous material. This type of applicator is described, for example, in FR-A-2 647 034. However, this device has the following drawbacks:
During application, the user feels a certain tightness on the skin.
Moreover, to ensure closing of the reservoir when the product is not being used, it is necessary to provide a relatively complicated dispensing head, which affects the cost.
Moreover for using the product, it is necessary to perform a prior action to bring the liquid into the porous dome which serves as the applicator element.
In general, this applicator is formed of several parts, and this results in a complicated assembly operation during manufacture, thereby entailing a high price.


A spray chamber for producing a sample for an analyzer which may contain a plasma torch. In the chamber, a heated sheath gas is fed into the periphery of the spray surrounding the spray, adjacent the origin of the spray, thus reducing the size of droplets which are recirculated, thereby reducing agglomeration of the droplets and promoting rapid drying of the spray. Preferably all of the spray solvent is evaporated in a very short chamber, thus further reducing the amount of spray recirculated, and all of the combined flow of dried particulates from the spray, nebulizing gas and sheath gas is directed into the torch. In one embodiment, the central core of the combined flow is directed to the torch and the peripheral portion of the combined flow is ducted to waste. In another embodiment the aqueous spray solvent is fully evaporated before it leaves the spray chamber, and the combined flow is directed through a membrane dryer before reaching the torch, to remove most of the water vapor from the flow and thus to reduce water vapor loading on the torch.

Analyzers using plasma torches have been used for many years for the analysis of components contained in liquid samples. Typically the liquid sample is sprayed in a spray chamber, using pneumatic nebulization, to form a fine mist of droplets. The fine droplets from the mist, and the fine particles which remain when droplets are evaporated, are introduced into the plasma torch where they are vaporized and ionized. Analysis is typically performed by connecting a mass spectrometer or other mass analyzer to the torch to receive ions from the torch, or by spectroscopy, i.e. by optically analyzing light emitted from the plasma.
In apparatus of the kind described, proper design of the sprayer and spray chamber are important to achieve optimum results. Poor design can result in low signal, or an unduly long signal rise time when spraying begins, or an unduly long washout time to clean out the spray chamber before a new sample can be introduced. In addition, some spray chambers waste a high proportion of the sample provided to them.
One example of an apparatus used for providing liquid sample to a plasma torch is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,345,079 to John B. French and Bernard Etkin, two of the present inventors. However this device requires the sample be directed in a stream of uniformly sized and spaced droplets. This can in some cases be a more complex and less convenient procedure than simply spraying a nebulized sample, for example as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,861,988.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,170,052 shows a method of using nebulizing gas to form a mist from a sample liquid and to inject the mist into a corona discharge. The technique shown in this patent involves heating the gas which is used to nebulize the liquid, an undesirable procedure which can result in breakdown of the molecules to be analyzed and which can also lead to clogging of fine orifices.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,477,048 shows a conventional form of nebulizer in which coarse droplets are sorted by momentum and wasted to a drain, while fine droplets which are able to negotiate a sharp turn are directed to a plasma torch. This approach has the disadvantages of wasting a great deal of sample and producing a relatively low signal. It also can produce severe memory effects and therefore requires lengthy and thorough washout before a new sample solution can be introduced.
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a new spray chamber and method, in which signal levels can be improved and in which signal rise time, washout time and memory effects may all be reduced. The new spray chamber and method may advantageously be used not only with analyzers which use plasma torches, but also with other kinds of analyzers, e.g. mass analyzers which use atmospheric pressure ionization. The present invention in another aspect relates to the use of the new spray chamber with a dryer.


A decorative dry paint wall film includes a layer of dry paint, a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer on one side of the dry paint layer, and a release liner in releasable contact with the dry paint layer on a side opposite from the pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). The release liner has a matte release coat layer that contacts the dry paint layer. The release liner is released from the dry paint layer after the PSA side is attached to a wall. The matte release coat transfers a matte finish to the dry paint layer when the release liner is removed. The wall film includes a barrier layer to protect against significant discoloration of the color in the dry paint layer caused by migration of azo-type pigments from a painted wall surface. The barrier layer in one embodiment comprises a dry emulsion containing ethylene-vinyl alcohol and a dispersed polymeric material which in one embodiment comprises a urethane material.

Thin sheets of decorative multi-layer dry paint laminates or wall films may be adhesively applied to a painted surface by a bonding layer, typically adhesive, for applying color to the surface. The wall film of this invention provides an alternative to conventional wallpaper. The familiar steps of applying wallpaper paste to conventional wallpaper or immersing pre-pasted wallpaper in water are time consuming, messy and require additional cleanup. These problems are avoided by the wall film of this invention which can be applied and repositioned on the wall in much less time. Special color effects such as faux finishes can be applied in a single application, and the wall film can be applied with overlapping seams that virtually disappear and are, therefore, not noticeable when the wall is viewed even close up and at different angles. The wall film as applied to the wall is exceedingly thin, much thinner than conventional wallpaper, so that by applying the wall film with overlapping seams that are virtually unnoticeable, a room can be decorated with new color effects that speed the process when compared with applying conventional wallpaper.
The wall film of this invention generally comprises a dry paint transfer sheet having one or more decorative layers of dry paint which can include a pigmented dry paint layer or color layer, a transparent protective clear coat layer, and one or more print coats which can provide various visual designs such as a faux pattern, if desired. An adhesive layer such as a pressure sensitive adhesive is applied to the decorative dry paint layer.
The decorative paint layer portion of the wall film preferably comprises a pigmented layer or layers of dry paint that simulate conventional interior wall paint. The wall film can be applied to suitable surfaces, such as flat two-dimensional interior wall surfaces; but the film is sufficiently flexible to be applied to match corners and to fit solidly around curved wall surfaces as well.
Foreign substances or agents in or on the wall surface, such as pigments in a painted surface, may be solubilized (i.e., dissolve) into the bonding layer of the wall film and migrate to the pigmented color-producing layer or layers of the wall film. Discoloration of the wall film may be produced by organic pigments or dyes found in common wall paints that migrate through the bonding layer into the color-producing layers of the wall film. For example, azo-type pigments used in wall paints containing yellow pigments as a component, or to a lesser extent, orange or red pigments or dyes, can migrate and cause discoloration.
The present invention provides a multi-layer wall film adapted for contact with a painted substrate surface that may contain organic materials with color constituents that migrate. The invention addresses a situation, in particular, where the painted surface containing such organic color components may not be modified to avoid the color migration problem. In response to this problem, the invention provides a wall film containing one or more barrier layers that cooperate to block or capture the migrating color materials, and in particular, those containing azo-type pigments. The barrier layer inhibits long-term discoloration of the color layer or layers in the wall film caused by the film being in contact with such a painted surface.
Although a barrier layer may be incorporated into the wall film to inhibit or prevent long-term discoloration of the color-producing layers, addition of the barrier layer should not adversely affect other necessary properties of the wall film. These properties include, but are not limited to, elongation or flexibility, and intercoat adhesion. Coat weight (or dry film thickness) of the barrier layer also is an important criterion inasmuch as the overall thickness of the wall film should stay below a certain level so that the film, in use, can be applied without visibly perceptible seams along overlapping sections of the film.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Multi-layer dry paint decorative laminate having discoloration prevention barrier


Polyvinyl halide resin absent allylic halogen is disclosed. Another polyvinyl halide resin absent allylic halogen, allylic branching and unsaturation is also disclosed. The compositions of this invention are prepared by contacting any polyvinyl halide resin with a hydrogen-substituting compound that has a selective affinity for the allylic halogens.

This invention relates to thermally stable polyvinyl halide resins. Specifically, this invention relates to polyvinyl halide resins for example polyvinyl chloride that is free of allylic chlorine and has superior heat stability than has heretofore been disclosed.
Polyvinyl halide resins are used in a variety of applications. These thermoplastic polymers can be fabricated into useful articles by extrusion, injection molding, compression molding and other thermoforming methods. Generally these methods involve mixing the resin with processing aids, heating the composition to a temperature to fuse the resin particles, forming the composition into the desired shape, and then cooling the composition to a solid. Due to the presence of unsaturation and labile allylic halogen in the polymer backbone, the resin is sensitive to dehydrohalogenation when exposed to heat. In particular, polyvinyl chloride resins are so sensitive to heat, they do not exhibit a distinct melting point and must be combined with fusing agents to facilitate their fusing during forming. At the melt temperatures, the polymer degrades and turns black. The polymer degrades because the allylic chlorines are activated when exposed to heat and are released from the polymeric backbone. A free radical remains that reacts with another part of the backbone causing crosslinking, or propagation of double bonds. Also, free chlorines react together to form Cl.sub.2 or with released hydrogen to form HCl. Although polyvinyl chloride resins are initially white, thermoformed articles that are damaged by heat during the process can range in color from yellow to black.
To stabilize polyvinyl halide resins during thermoforming methods, heat or thermal stabilizers are added to the resins. By using these stabilizers, the resin can be fused with a reduced degree of degradation and discoloration. Examples of such heat stabilizers are organometallic compounds such as metallic, alkali metal and alkaline earth metal salts of fatty acids. The metals include lead, barium, cadmium, tin, calcium, and zinc. A popular organometallic stabilizer is dibutyltin di-2-ethylhexanoate. It is believed that the stabilizers function by reacting with the labile allylic chlorines. The chlorine complexes with the metal and the organic group substitutes for the chlorine on the backbone.
Unfortunately, the stabilizers provide only relatively short-term stability. The organic group can be further eliminated when heated by the same mechanism as the chlorine is eliminated as in PVC. Moreover, the stabilizers can be hazardous to the environment or even toxic, can themselves discolor the resin, and can also be incompatible with the resins. Since the metal remains mixed with the resin as a metal chloride complex, it can leach out of, or migrate from the resin or formed article. This can cause cracking in the molded article as well as cause damage to other articles that are in contact with the resin-formed article. Also, in stabilized PVC this residual metal chloride can contribute to degradation of the polymer at high processing temperatures. The metal chloride complex contributes to crosslinking and viscosity increase of the polymer at high temperatures. This viscosity increase is observed when the compound is processed at 200.degree. C. for about 25 minutes. The amount of torque required to process the compound increases dramatically as the viscosity increases. Thus, processing costs are increased. Furthermore, the substitution of the organo group on the backbone alters the structure of the polyvinyl chloride resin and can affect its properties. Thus, although the stabilizers are effective in a certain range of temperatures for stabilizing polyvinyl chloride resins during thermoforming processing, they have disadvantages that discourage their use.
Conventional alkyl tin stabilizer additives known to displace allylic chlorines substitute therefore alkyl groups at the allylic carbon. This treatment can be carried out by treating the resin with a stabilizing treatment solution. In this method, the resin is dissolved in a solvent, and the treatment solution is then added. The resin is then precipitated from the solution and recovered. Examples of treatment solutions are potassium allyl xanthate in dimethyl formamide, di(n-butyl)tin bis (n-dodecyl mercaptide) or mixtures with di(butyl)tin dichloride in o-dichloro-benzene, and dialkylaluminum chloride with a lower alkanol. Again, these compounds substitute the labile allylic chlorines and introduce a foreign structure onto the backbone other than hydrogen. For example, in the dialkylaluminum chloride and lower alkanol treatment, the dialkylaluminum chloride is sued to catalyze the substitution of the organic portion of the alkanol to the polymer backbone. Thus, the organic portion is attached to the backbone through an ether-linkage. This results in what is known as allylic branching. This allylic branching is nevertheless a more labile site as compared to the --CH.sub.2 -- structure absent an alkyl branch.
Therefore, considering the many uses of polyvinyl halide articles, resins that have superior heat stability are desired. Also, in view of the disadvantages associated with the use of stabilizers and organic treatments, it would be desirable to produce a vinyl halide polymer, for example a vinyl chloride polymer which is absent allylic chlorine and allylic branching as analyzed by the precise .sup.1 H proton Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic method. Furthermore, it would also be highly desirable to provide a vinyl chloride polymer absent allylic chlorine, allylic branching and unsaturation.

Thermally stable polyvinyl chloride resin


The present invention provides a compound characterized by being represented by general formula (I):

Numerous control agents have been proposed for use against diseases of agricultural and horticultural crops. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a tetrazolyloxime derivative (general formula (P)) that has superior pharmacological efficacy for useful plants, and proposes the use of that derivative as a plant disease control agent.

In general formula (P), A′ represents a halogen atom, alkyl group, alkoxy group, methanesulfonyl group, trifluoromethyl group, aryl group, cyano group or nitro group, n represents an integer of 0 to 5, Y′ represents an alkyl group, and Het represents a substituted pyridyl group or substituted thiazolyl group. Furthermore, in general formula (P), "N˜O" indicates that the aforementioned oxime moiety may be of the (E) form or (Z) form.

The tetrazolyloxime derivative represented by this general formula (P) can be produced by obtaining a tetrazolylhydroxyimino derivative represented by general formula (R) by reacting hydroxylamine with a 1-alkyl-5-benzoyl-1H-tetrazole derivative represented by general formula (Q), and then reacting this with Het-CH2X (wherein, X represents a chlorine atom, bromine atom or iodine atom) in the presence of a base (such as sodium hydride, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, cesium carbonate, triethylamine, pyridine or N,N-dimethylaminopyridine). Furthermore, the 1-alkyl-5-benzoyl-1H-tetrazole derivative represented by general formula (Q) can be synthesized by, for example, the method disclosed in Patent Document 2. In addition, a halogenated picoline derivative described in Patent Document 3, for example, can be used for the Het-CH2X.
The tetrazolyloxime derivative represented by general formula (P) has (E) form and (Z) form stereoisomers based on the carbon-nitrogen double bond of the oxime moiety. Although both the (Z) form and (E) form have activity, the (Z) form is preferable.

Compound, method for producing compound, and method for purifying compound

Abstract: (wherein, A represents a halogen atom, alkyl group, haloalkyl group, alkoxy group, haloalkoxy group, alkylsulfonyl group, unsubstituted or substituted aryl group, cyano group or nitro group, n represents an integer of 0 to 5 (and A may be mutually the same or different when n is 2 or more), Y represents an alkyl group, M represents an alkaline metal or alkaline earth metal, and m represents an integer of 1 or 2).


A Japanese Zelkova tree (Zelkova serrata) named ‘ZSFKF’ having a broad-spreading habit, fibrous root system, a more rapid growth rate, and heat tolerance and also capable of being reproduced reliably from vegetative cuttings.

The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of Zelkova serrata, Japanese Zelkova tree, which I have given the cultivar name 'ZSFKF'.
DISCOVERY
I discovered my new tree in the spring of 1989 growing in a production field at Pritchard's Tree Farm in Madison, Morgan County, Ga., among a group of cultivated Japanese Zelkova trees. This particular area of Morgan County has a clay loam soil type, is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 7 and receives average yearly rainfall of 50 inches. This tree was acquired from a nursery in McMinnville, Tenn. in a grouping of 'Village Green' and 'Green Vase' Zelkova liners in the spring of 1986. It was apparent at a very early age that 'ZSFKF' was unique due to the vigorous growth rate and broad structure when compared to these known cultivars in the same field.
PROPAGATION
'ZSFKF' was asexually propagated at my direction in the spring of 1993 by means of softwood cuttings treated with rooting hormones and held for six to eight weeks in a controlled greenhouse environment in Loganville, Ga. This propagation and resulting progeny have proven the characteristics of my new variety to be genetically stable. Furthermore, these observations have confirmed that my new variety represents a new and improved variety of Japanese Zelkova as particularly evidenced by the broad-spreading habit, more rapid growth rate, fibrous root system and heat tolerance which can be reliably asexually propagated.
UNIQUENESS
'ZSFKF' was observed to have broad spreading habit, more rapid growth rate, a fibrous root system and greater heat tolerance than other cultivars currently available at time of submittal. These characteristics distinguish my new tree from other typical seedling Japanese Zelkova and the known cultivars.
USE
'ZSFKF' was observed for a period of time and is believed to be particularly useful for residential street plantings and lawns, parks, or other large areas. The shorter mature height 'ZSFKF' would make it suitable for planting beneath power lines. The well developed root structure and rapid growth rate of my new variety will benefit growers who can produce a mature tree in less time. The heat tolerance will extend the range of Japanese Zelkova south and improve its survivability in areas where it can currently be grown but takes time to establish.


The invention relates to a method for producing a feeder configured for use in a casting mold used for casting metals, wherein the feeder has a feeder body (14) enclosing a feeder cavity (15) and a through opening (19) in its base region (18) for connecting the feeder cavity (15) to the casting mold and the feeder body (14) consists of an exothermic material and is enclosed on its outer side at least in regions by an external shell (27) consisting of insulating refractory material, and wherein the feeder is provided with a feeder foot (20) arranged externally in its base region (18) and having an opening (21) flush with the through opening (19). The feeder is characterized in that the feeder body (14) produced in a first step in a conventional method from an exothermic material is used together with the feeder foot (20) associated with the base region (18) to form the external shell (27) into an injection mold (10) having a mold cavity (30) and feeder body and feeder foot are shot simultaneously with the insulating material, wherein the feeder body (14) including the feeder foot (20) is positioned in such a manner that the insulating material shot into the mold cavity (30) of the injection mold (10) fills in a gap (25) left between the feeder foot (20) and the base of the mold cavity (30) at least one part of the circumference of the feeder foot (20) and extending over at least a part of the height of the feeder foot (20), and the shot external shell (27) thereby extends at least partially under the feeder foot (20) with the exception of its opening (21) and is attached to the base region (18) of the feeder body (14) without the use of auxiliary means.

The invention relates to a method for producing a feeder configured for use in a casting mold used for casting metals, wherein the feeder has a feeder body enclosing a feeder cavity and a through opening in its base region for connecting the feeder cavity to the casting mold and the feeder body consists of an exothermic material and is enclosed on its outer side at least in regions by an external shell consisting of insulating refractory material, and wherein the feeder is provided with a feeder foot arranged externally in its base region and having an opening flush with the through opening.
EP 2 489 449 A describes a feeder, whose feeder body is made from an exothermic, heat-producing material, which upon contact with the hot metal, whose temperature increases in the feeder cavity during the founding process, is combustible. The feeder body is surrounded externally at least partially by an external shell made from an insulating, fire-proof material. In this manner, it should be possible that the external shell made from the insulating material stores the heat existing by the liquid metal and the exothermic reaction with the feeder body made from the exothermic material, so that an increase of the modulus of such a feeder relative to a feeder made exclusively from an exothermic material is provided. It is therefore unchanged that the feeder body made from the exothermic material, based on the exothermic reaction, in addition to the flowing liquid metal, releases a defined amount of heat, which must be so great that if necessary, existing heat loss of the entire feeder system is compensated, despite the additional insulating outer shell. Based on this effect, the module of a purely exothermal feeder with a feeder having an insulating external shell is increased, that is, with a constant module required on casting technical grounds, the dimensions of the feeder can be reduced, also taking into consideration the insulating shell.
Regarding formation of a defined breaking edge for the feeder residue existing after completion of the casting process and cooking of the metal on the casting part and between the feeder body and the casting mold, a feeder foot in the form of a disc-shaped breaker core or in the form of a funnel-shaped metal disc is arranged. With the feeder shown in EP 2 489 449, the external shell either reaches only to the feeder foot or surrounds it only on its outer side. Thus, with the known feeder, the disadvantage can occur that with subsequent application of the breaker core or the metal disc on the feeder body, no central application of the feeder foot occurs, which leads to problems during formation of the feeder in the casting mold; for example, the breaker core or the metal plate during placement of the feeder on the forming mandrel of the casting mold, based on a deficient accuracy of fit, falls off or tears. In this case, the corresponding casting mold is not useable.

Method for producing a feeder having an exothermic feeder body, and a feeder having an insulating external shell

GTP SCHÄFER GIESSTECHNISCHE PRODUKTE GMBH


Synthetic methods of preparing perhydro-3,6-dimethyl-2-benzo[b]furanones, in particular dihydromintlactone, and analogs through reaction of dehydrogenation of menthanediols and analogs with a base in the presence of (carbonylchlorohydrido[bis-(2-diphenylphosphinoethyl)amine]ruthenium(II) as catalyst in good stereoselectivity and yields under stereochemistry controlled conditions are disclosed.

Dihydromintlactone (I), namely (+)-(3S,3aS,6R,7aR)-perhydro-3,6-dimethyl-2-benzo[b]furanone, is an important natural flavor and fragrance ingredient, which exhibits strong coumarinic, lactonic, tonka, hay and flouve odor, while its epimer 3-epi-dihydromintlactone (V), namely(+)-(3R,3aS,6R,7aR)-perhydro-3,6-dimethyl-2-benzo[b]furanone), is characterized by a powerful lactonic character.

Dihydromintlactone I is more powerful than coumarin and can thus be used in a dose 10 times smaller than that of Coumarin. Due to their high commercial value, practical and economic synthetic methods of these compounds, in particular I, are constantly pursued. Yet, due to the presence of four stereogenic centers in a relatively small molecule, synthesis of the molecule such as dihydromintlactone with control of the desired chirality is challenging.
Gaudin et al. disclosed several routes leading to synthesis of compound I. See U.S. Pat. No. 5,464,824A and Tetrahedron 56, 27, 4769 (2000). According to Scheme 1, (−)-isopulegol (II) is epoxidized by m-chloroperbenzoic acid to give stereoisomeric 1:1 mixture of epoxides which are cleaved by LDA to give a 1:1 mixture of allylic diols. Hydrogenation of the diols affords a 1:1 mixture of (−)-(1R,3R,4S,8R)-3,9-p-menthanediol (III) and (−)-(1R,3R,4S,8S)-3,9-p-menthanediol (IV), which are separated by chromatography or fractional crystallization.

Oxidation of the individual diols gives the corresponding lactones V and I. This method involves four chemical steps and one physical separation step; thus, the desired Compound I is obtained in a low overall yield. Furthermore, oxidation of the diols by potassium permanganate produces a considerable amount of toxic waste containing manganese ions.
A shorter synthesis illustrated in Scheme 2 involves hydroboration-oxidation of (−)-II (see also Helv. Chim Acta, 50 [1] 153 (1967)) to give a mixture of 3,9-p-menthanediols III and IV, in which III predominates. See U.S. Pat. No. 5,464,824A and Tetrahedron 56, 27, 4769 (2000). Separation of the isomers followed by permanganate oxidation affords mainly Compound V. The desired compound I is obtained in a low yield, again with a considerable amount of toxic waste stream containing manganese ions.

The dehydrogenation of (−)-III was also effected by excess of silver carbonate on Celite® (see Chavan, S. P., et al., Tetrahedron 49(29), 6429 (1993)) or by an excess amount of potassium permanganate-copper sulfate (see Jefford, C. W., et al., Organic Syntheses, Coll. Vol. 9, p. 462 (1998)) to give Compound V as the major product. In addition, these methods generate a considerable amount of heavy metal waste streams and therefore are not suitable for large-scale manufacture. Oxidation of the III-IV mixture by sodium hypochlorite in presence of catalytic amounts of ruthenium chloride according to U.S. Pat. No. 5,106,995A gave dihydromintlactone streoisomers in a composition similar to that obtained from the permanganate oxidation method, in which the undesired V predominates. Catalytic dehydrogenation of the III-IV mixture using H2Ru(PPh3)4 (Murahashi et. al, J. Org. Chem. 52[19], 4319 (1987)) or Ru(PPh3)3(CO)H2 (Williams et al, Org. Lett., 9, [21] 4387 (2007)) using acetone as hydrogen acceptor also gave similar results. Attempt to dehydrogenate the diols using RuCl2[PP3]3 in presence of benzalacetone as acceptor was unsuccessful (Yoshikawa et al, J. Org. Chem. 51[11], 2034 (1986)). Similarly, heterogeneous catalysts such as Ru/alumina or Ru/AlO(OH) (Kim et al., Org. Let. 8[12] 2543 (2006)) were found to be inactive. Copper chromite (U.S. Pat. No. 5,110,954) was found to be an active dehydrogenation catalyst, but the lactones obtained were similar to those from the permanganate and hypochlorite/Ru oxidation methods, where the undesired compound V predominates.
Still another route disclosed by Gaudin, J.-M., et al., involves Raney nickel catalyzed cis-hydrogenation of mintlactone from the less sterically hindered face under 50-atmosphere pressure at room temperature (Scheme 3). See U.S. Pat. No. 5,464,824A and Tetrahedron 56[27] 4769 (2000). However, this method afforded a 3a-epimer of dihydromintlactone.

More recently, Foley, P., et al. disclosed a 5-step synthesis of Compound I as the major isomer in an overall yield of 13.4% starting from isopulegol (Scheme 4). See WO 2017/044957A1. The process involves hazardous reactions such as ozonization, cyanation and chlorination, which generate a considerable amount of toxic effluents and a large amount of aqueous waste stream.
In sum, the existing processes for synthesis of the desired compound I are generally characterized by a low yield of I with a considerable amount of toxic wastes and therefore are not suitable for the economic commercial-scale manufacture. Therefore, an efficient "green" process for practical synthesis of compound I and analogs is still needed.

Stereoselective synthesis of perhydro-3,6-dialkyl-2-benzo[b]furanones and analogs


An operator cabinet has a wall having a front side, a rear side and a cutout defined by an inner edge. An operator terminal is installed in the cutout and has a frame surrounding a display for displaying at least one system state of a technical system. The outer frame edge is dimensioned so as to be larger than the inner edge of the cutout, with the result that, when installed, the frame can rest on the front side of the wall. A plate having an outer plate edge is dimensioned so as to be larger than the inner edge of the cutout with the result that, when installed, the plate can rest on the rear side of the wall. A plurality of bolts are secured at one end on the frame and extend, when installed, through the cutout and then through corresponding holes in the plate.

The present invention relates to an operator cabinet including an operator terminal for operating a technical system.
An operator terminal for operating a technical system should be understood within the context of the present invention as meaning an operator terminal suitable for displaying at least one state of the technical system (for example for diagnosis) in order that a user can operate the technical system correspondingly (for example by actuating an emergency stop switch). In addition, the operator terminal can also be configured for receiving an input of an operating command, by means of which the user can operate or manually control the technical system.
An operator terminal of this type is, for example, an operator terminal as is being marketed or has been marketed by the applicant of the present invention under the name PIPANEL Monitor. As is known, for example, from the description "Pilz, Industriecomputer, Bedienungsanleitung, PIPANEL-Monitor, Sach Nr. 19 557" [Pilz, Industrial computer, Operating instructions, PIPANEL Monitor, part number 19 557], mounting holes for fastening bolts need to be drilled into the wall for installation purposes. These mounting holes need to be drilled at precisely defined positions (with a small tolerance). Such a known operator terminal therefore requires relatively complex mounting or installation in the cutout in the wall, in particular precise drill holes, and therefore a long mounting time.
An operator terminal of this type can furthermore be, for example, an operator terminal as is marketed by the applicant of the present invention under the name PMI®. As is known, for example from the description "Pilz, PMIvisu/PMIopen IV, Bedienterminals, Bedienungsanleitung Sach-Nr. 21 897-01" [Pilz, PMIvisu/PMIopen IV, Operator terminals, Operating instructions, part number 21 897-01], the operator terminal can be installed into the cutout in the wall with the aid of a plurality of mounting plates and button-head screws (in particular in the case of the model PMI 426/431/438). Each of the mounting plates is fastened with screws to the housing of the operator terminal. In each case one of the button-head screws is arranged through one of the fastening plates in such a way that the button-head screw presses against the rear side of the wall. In order to mount such an operator terminal, therefore, many parts are required. This known operator terminal also requires relatively complex mounting or installation in the cutout in the wall.


A pressure regulating unit for providing controlled pressure for use in displacing syrups in a carbonated beverage dispensing system, the unit including a block made of a single piece of metal and having mounting structure integrally provided thereon and a high-pressure gas flow passage provided therein and having a high pressure inlet, the unit also including pressure regulators that are supported on the block and have gas inlets communicating with the high-pressure gas flow passage.

The invention relates to a pressure regulating unit for providing controlled pressures for use in displacing liquid in a carbonated beverage dispensing system.
In restaurants and other facilities where carbonated beverages are prepared on demand, a single source of pressurized carbon dioxide gas is typically used to carbonate the water at a carbonator and to pump the different syrups for different beverages. The syrups typically are contained in canisters or in bag-in-box containers. Syrups for diet beverages typically have a different viscosity than syrups for non-diet beverages, and different pressures are used to pump the diet and non-diet syrups.
Typically a single carbon dioxide tank that delivers carbon dioxide at high pressure is used with two pressure regulators that are individually set to reduce their output pressures to the desired levels for the two types of syrup being dispensed. The carbon dioxide tank is typically connected to a wall-mounted pressure regulating system in which the regulators are mounted on a supporting bracket, and the high-pressure gas is passed from one regulator to another by a pipe connected between the two.

Pressure regulating unit for beverage dispensing system


A double clutch apparatus for a hybrid electric vehicle having a motor and an engine includes: first and second clutches transmitting a motor torque and an engine torque to first and second input shafts; and first and second slave cylinders disposed at a transmission case and configured to respectively operate the first and second clutches in an axial direction. In particular, a rotor hub of the motor is rotatably supported by an end of a radially interior side of a front cover, and is connected to the first input shaft through a clutch retainer of the second clutch and a first connection member to transmit the motor torque to the first input shaft. In addition, the first and second clutches are disposed in parallel in an interior circumference of the rotor hub to selectively transmit the engine torque to the first and second input shafts, respectively.

The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.
Environment-friendly technology in vehicles is a core technology of a future automobile industry, and automakers are focusing on developing environment-friendly vehicles to satisfy environmental and fuel efficiency regulations.
An electric vehicle (EV) and a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) that utilize electrical energy, and a double clutch transmission (DCT) improving fuel efficiency and convenience may be examples of future vehicle technologies.
The hybrid electric vehicle is a vehicle using two or more power sources that may be combined in various schemes, and typically, a gasoline or diesel engine using fossil fuels and a motor/generator driven by electric energy are combined to act as the power sources.
The DCT alternatingly activates odd-numbered shift-stages and even-numbered shift-stages by alternatingly operating two clutches, and thereby improves continuity in torque transmission.
We have discovered that applying a double clutch transmission (DCT) to the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) increases fuel efficiency and maximize fuel efficiency, and we have fond that an efficient combination of the DCT and the HEV can be accomplished by modularizing a double clutch apparatus and an engine clutch together with the motor of the hybrid electric vehicle.
The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the present disclosure and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known to a person of ordinary skill in the art.

Double clutch apparatus for hybrid electric vehicle


A repair kit for repairing damaged areas (2) in surfaces (5) or on edges of objects (1) of natural stone, in particular of marble, includes a liquid or highly viscous filler material (3), which is curable by polymerization, polyaddition or polycondensation, and furthermore at least one granulate (4) already cured by polymerization, polyaddition or polycondensation.

a) Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a repair kit for repairing damages in surfaces or on edges of objects comprised of natural stone, in particular of marble, comprising a liquid or highly viscous filler material, which is curable by polymerization, polyaddition or polycondensation.
b) Description of Related Prior Art
Natural stone is employed for example for high-quality cover plates in the area of kitchen construction, facade construction and floor coverings. Natural stone is inter alia also utilized for art objects and in road construction. Especially in high-quality application areas, damage, such as scratches, chipping or broken off edges, can represent a large loss. Replacement of the damaged natural stone is very expensive and also time-consuming. It is furthermore already known to repair damage to natural stone. Such repair is faster, less expensive and can be carried out on site. However, there is a considerable loss of quality due to the repair. In particular the visual impression is negatively affected immediately after the repair. Most often, the conventional repair systems are not particularly well matched in terms of color. However, systems are also already known, in which by color retouching or by dyeing the repair material, better matching to the appearance of the natural stone is achieved. However, the result, especially in the case of natural stone with a crystalline structure, is often unsatisfactory. This applies especially to white marble. For that reason attempts have already been made to mix ground marble into the filler substance, whereby, however, an advantageous repair could also not be achieved. For example, it was no longer possible to finish, for example by polishing, the repair site in a suitable manner after it had been filled with the repair material.


A method of managing a central data repository including updating the central data repository from a disconnected nomadic device by receiving a request from a first nomadic device for access at the central data repository, authorizing the first nomadic device and sending a check out template to the first nomadic device. The server receives a checkout selection from the first nomadic device, authenticates the first nomadic device, and presents a list of authorized items to the first nomadic device; receives a request for selected items from the list and check out the selected items to the first nomadic device. This prohibits other nomadic devices from checking out the selected items checked out to the first selected nomadic device. The first nomadic device is disconnected and the checked out selected items are updated. After updating, a check in request is received at the central data repository from the first nomadic device for the updated checked out selected items The device is and authenticated and authorized, and the updated checked out selected items are returned to the central data repository.

The invention relates to management of distributed database data in a nomadic data collection system, including file access and retrieval, from a centralized data repository by a disconnected nomadic work station. A further aspect of the invention is the management of data coherency, including backing up database information and files, file migration between disconnected work stations, and a high density data repository.
Nomadicity is the term used to define the transparent, integrated and convenient form of system support needed to provide a rich set of computing and communications capabilities and services to nomads, including either or both of nomadic workers or nomadic workstations, as they move from place to place. Nomadic data collection specifically allows for data packets to be transferred between a generally disconnected workstation and a central repository.
When updating central data repositories which are not easily accessed, nomadic data collection is employed to facilitate the gathering of information from normally disconnected devices. Nomadic data collection also allows for adding data to a central repository, capturing what exists without regard to or awareness of what already existed.
In this context a need exists to update central repositories of data which are not easily accessed via a direct connection, that is, nomadic data collection.

Nomadic data collection and management method including pessimistic locking of data

International Business Machines Corporation


Aluminum parts, e.g., heat exchangers, with improved resistance towards corrosion caused by contact with stationary water or aqueous compositions such as cooling water can be obtained by addition of Li compounds in specific amounts to the flux used for brazing the parts. LiF and especially Li fluoroaluminates are very suitable. The flux and the Li salt can be dispersed in water or an aqueous composition separately.

It is well known in the art that brazing of aluminum parts can be performed utilizing fluxes based on alkali metal fluoroaluminates. Fluxes of this type are generally considered to be noncorrosive. See for example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,971,501 which applies a flux based on KAlF4 and K3AlF6, or U.S. Pat. No. 4,689,092 which applies a flux based on potassium fluoroaluminate and cesium fluoroaluminate. U.S. Pat. No. 6,949,300 discloses kinetic spraying onto metal substrates a brazing composition that comprises corrosion protector, brazing filler and/or non-corrosive flux.
EP-A-0 091231 discloses a flux comprising LiF in an amount of from 2% by weight to 7% by weight. The flux has a lowered melting point and is said to be suitable for brazing of aluminum alloys containing magnesium. In two examples, items were brazed with a flux containing K3AlF6, KAlF4 and Li3AlF6. The brazed items were subjected to a brine test and showed no corrosion after a treatment of 1000 hours.
In GB-A 2 224 751, a method of treating an aluminum workpiece is described. A treatment of the workpiece with a carbon oxide, e.g., during brazing, is provided. Hereby, the workpiece blackens. The formation of a black coating is improved when LiF is present in the flux.
JP 07-009123 discloses a flux with a melting point of 560° C. or less which is suitable for brazing of aluminum alloys containing magnesium. In two examples, fluxes with 3 and 10% by of LiF, respectively, were applied.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,802,752 discloses a method for open-air flame brazing (torch brazing). A flux is applied which contains a potassium fluoroaluminate flux and from 1 to 30% by weight, most preferably from 6 to 11% by weight, of cesium fluoride, lithium fluoride or both. The flux is well suited to braze aluminum alloys containing magnesium.
EP-A-0 347 106 discloses a method for treating aluminum workpieces by heating them in an oxidizing atmosphere to improve their corrosion resistance. In some of the examples, among other inorganic additives, LiCl, Li3AlF6 or LiF are added in an amount of 4.8% by weight. The effect is enhanced when additives such as alkali and alkaline earth metal salts are added to the flux.
EP-A-0 541 259 discloses a flux comprising KF—AlF3 and, in an amount of 0.75 to 16.5% by weight of LiF. The flux is obtained by melting appropriate amounts of KF, LiF and AlF3 in a crucible. The brazed parts, when immersed in water, provide a relatively low conductivity to the water.
If contacted for extended times with water or aqueous liquids, aluminum parts brazed with potassium fluoroaluminate based fluxes show signs of corrosion. This is disclosed by Bo Yang et al. in Journal of ASTM International, Vol. 3, Issue 10 (2006). The corrosion can be recognized by the appearance of turbidity in the water or liquid and seems, for example, to induce the formation of aluminum hydroxide.
This corrosion seems to be caused by fluoride ions which are leached from brazing residues if the brazed parts are in contact with water for extended periods of time, e.g., for at least one day or longer.
It is known that aluminum is always coated by aluminum oxide which prevents a good braze joint; the purpose of adding a flux is to clean the surface of the aluminum parts to be brazed, and notably, to remove the oxide layer. Often, potassium fluoroaluminate based fluxes are applied. Often, these fluxes consist of KAlF4 or of a mixture of KAlF4 and K2AlF5. The content of K3AlF6 in the flux should be low. During the brazing process, K3AlF6 is often formed, and these fluxes can be considered as precursor for K3AlF6. It is assumed that K2AlF5 disproportionate to KAlF4 and K3AlF6 according to the following equation:2K2AlF5KAlF4 and K3AlF6  (1)
Other fluxes, e.g., potassium fluorozincate, form potassium fluoroaluminates in situ:2Al+3KZnF33Zn+KAlF4+K2AlF5  (2)
The K2AlF5 formed will disproportionate according to equation (1) forming KAlF4 and K3AlF6. Thus, such fluxes are precursors of K2AlF5 and K3AlF6, and the overall equation is4Al+6KZnF36Zn+3KAlF4+K3AlF6  (2a)
K2SiF6 forms K2AlF5, and, see (3b), subsequently K3AlF6, too:4Al+3K2SiF63Si+2KAlF4+2K2AlF5  (3)4Al+3K2SiF63Si+3KAlF4+K3AlF6  (3b)The K2AlF5 formed will disproportionate, as described above, to form KAlF4 and K3AlF6. Also potassium fluorostannates are precursors of K2AlF5 and K3AlF6.
It was found that in prolonged contact with water, K3AlF6 releases KF which causes corrosion on the surface of the brazed aluminum parts.

Flux forming an insoluble brazing residue


A thermoformed bowl filled and sealed with a sample food product forms a sample package. The bowl is sized and shaped to the contours of and so as to nest upon the shoulders of a plastic one gallon jug or bottle. The package has a centrally located die-cut hole to lock under the bottle neck boss. Free samples of the food product can thus be distributed to accompany regular sales of one gallon plastic containers of milk.

Ready-To-Eat ("R-T-E") cereal manufacturers engage in wide varieties of activities designed to promote new, improved, or existing R-T-E cereal products. One common technique is to distribute a coupon redeemable at a food retailer in connection with the purchase of the manufacturer's product. Another technique is to increase the advertising of the product. While such promotion activities are helpful in promoting the sale of the manufacturer's product, consumers are even more inclined to purchase a product after the consumer has had an opportunity to actually sample the product.
A variety of techniques are used to provide actual samples of the food product to consumers for testing. One technique is to hand out samples of the product in retail stores where the product is typically purchased. Another technique is to mail free samples of the product to consumers. A third technique is to include inserts of the sample product in other products sold to the consumer. While these several techniques are useful and indeed are popular, there is a continuing need for new, useful and innovative techniques for distributing samples of food products to consumers to facilitate the consumers sample use of such food products.
In particular, it would be especially useful to tie the provision of a sample of a food product to be promoted with the purchase of a product typically used in connection with the food product being promoted. Thus, for example, for R-T-E cereal manufacturers, it would be desirable to tie a sample of an R-T-E cereal with the purchase of a container of milk since milk is typically used in association with the consumption of R-T-E cereals.
However, a number of problems are presented by such proposed association. For example, in the fabrication and use of conventional milk containers, such container designs are well established as are the systems for filling and distributing such packaged food items. Any design for a sample container must accommodate such designs and distribution systems. Such sample package designs must also accommodate the intermediate storage systems for such packages. In particular, for milk containers, such sample designs must not interfere with the conventional method of handling milk containers that involve the insertion of the packages into milk cases, especially the stackability of such cases.
Still another problem resides in the provision of a sampler package containing a sufficient amount of volume to hold about one oz. of sample R-T-E cereal having densities as low as 0.1 g/cc. Useful sample packages must have a product reservoir large enough to hold useful quantities of the cereal yet nonetheless not adversely affect the routine handling of the filled bottles.
Still another problem resides in fabricating articles suitable for ordinary usage by consumers. Frequently, the consumer will grip the combined article by the sample package to lift the article. If the sample package is inadequately secured to the bottle, the sample can become untimely separated from the bottle and the bottle may fall. On the other hand, the sample must be relatively easy to remove from the bottle when such removal is timely. The feature which removably secures the sample to the bottle thus must be strong yet removable and, of course, inexpensive.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a food product sample package of a new and useful design.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide new and useful food product package designs that are adapted to be removably secured to supporting packages.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide improved sample package designs that are useful in connection with conventional plastic containers for fluid foods such as milk, juice and water.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide carton designs that can be used in connection with supporting fluid containers that minimize handling problems in the conventional distribution and sale of such fluid products.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a sample package that is resistant to dislocation from the supporting food package yet nonetheless can, when desired, be conveniently detached from the bottle.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a sample product package having removable engagement means that is simple and inexpensive to fabricate and assemble.
These and other objects of the present invention are described in the description of the preferred embodiments below.
The present invention will become clearer in light of the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment of this invention described in connection with the drawings.


A novel form of crutch is provided which can be used, particularly by paraplegics, to move between sitting and standing positions. The crutch includes a unique foot mechanism which gives added stability to the user of a pair of the crutches during such sitting/standing transitions, and which can be retracted so as to avoid interference with normal crutch-aided walking. A set of such powered crutches, incorporating both power extension/retraction and power foot adjustment, are capable of extended powered operation with on-board electrical power, and use power only for adjustment and are self-locking into adjusted positions. The power assist of the crutches are controllable from switches strategically located by the crutch handles so the user can manipulate the control switches without releasing his/her hold on the crutch handles. Also disclosed is a unique method of assisting disabled persons, using such crutches, to move between seated and standing positions without further assistance.

Power operated crutches having lengthwise extensible/retractable motion are known, and have been the subject of U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,157,188, 3,157,189, 3,416,546, and 4,237,916. All of those are fitted with conventional tips, generally in the form of an elastomeric cup fitted to the bottom of the crutch post and intended to provide a somewhat resilient minimized slip contact with the underlying floor, pavement, etc. Other patents disclose pivoting or conforming tips which may include a somewhat enlarged floor contact member to make an enlarged "footprint" contact and also provide limited 360.degree. motion of the contact member with respect to the crutch tip, so as to maintain an extended area contact as the post is tilted during use of the crutch. Typical such patents are patent Nos. 2,230,406, and 679,468, as well as No. 2,351,145 which relates to stilts.
The prior art does not, however, address the need for a power operated crutch construction which can assist a handicapped person, particularly a paraplegic or similarly afflicted person, to rise from sitting to standing positions (and similarly to sit from a standing position) with additional assistance. Such persons, provided they have sufficient upper body strength, which many do have, can walk with crutches if they are fitted with a so-called full body brace. This is a generally available hinged metal (or equivalent) brace which has the capability of locking knee and hip joints in a straight line, so the person so fitted can stand on his/her legs without fear of collapsing, and can swing the lower torso between appropriate crutches and thus be self-ambulatory once achieving a standing position between the crutches.
By way of background explanation, such braces include a waist encircling upper part, which can be firmly attached to the wearer's torso above the hips, and linkages extending downward along the hips and legs. These linkages include joints at the location of the person's hip joints, which joints can be locked and unlocked, joints adjacent the person's knees, which also can be locked and unlocked, and lower supports which receive and attach to the calves, ankle joints and feet of the wearer. With the aforementioned joints unlocked, the various links pivot to allow movement of the person's legs to a seated position. With the links along the legs extended and locked, the persons legs are supported in an extended position. With the person standing erect, and the hip joints of the brace locked, the persons legs are supported in line with the upper torso.
Thus, there is a need for power operated crutches which have capability of assisting persons using such a brace in transition between seated and standing positions without additional help, thereby considerably enhancing such persons' mobility and self reliance.

Crutch with power lift and foot and method of using same


A semiconductor memory device includes a memory cell array, word line, row decoder, bit line, sense amplifier, dummy cell array, dummy bit line, sense amplifier activation circuit, and signal interconnection. The word line is connected to memory cells arrayed in the column direction. The row decoder is connected to the word line. The bit line is connected to memory cells arrayed in the row direction. The sense amplifier is connected to the bit line. Dummy cells are arrayed in the row direction between the row decoder and the memory cell array. The dummy bit line is connected to the dummy cells. The sense amplifier activation circuit transmits a sense start signal for setting a sense start timing to the sense amplifier through the signal interconnection. In this arrangement, the signal delay of the word line is set to be equal to that of the signal interconnection.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a semiconductor memory device having a replica circuit for controlling the sense timing of a sense amplifier.
2. Description of the Related Art
An example of a conventional semiconductor memory device having a replica circuit will be described.
In the replica circuit, a dummy word line connected to a dummy row decoder runs through dummy cells arrayed in the column direction and turns back. The dummy word line is then connected to dummy cells arrayed in the row direction through a dummy bit line and further connected to a local sense activation circuit through, e.g., an inverter. The turnback is done in a distance half an actual word line (e.g., Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2002-56682).
The dummy word line reflects the actual word line length up to the farthest point. Hence, the dummy bit line reproduces the farthest bit line. The replica circuit determines the sense start timing, and generates a sense start signal (sense activation signal) and notifies the sense amplifier of the cell array of the start of sensing. For this reason, "dummy word line delay+dummy bit line delay+inverter delay+interconnect delay up to sense amplifier" is necessary until a signal is transmitted to the farthest sense amplifier.
Conventionally, since the word lines are made of polysilicon and the necessary memory capacity is small, the interconnect delay up to the sense amplifier is so small as to be insignificant as compared to the dummy word line delay or dummy bit line delay. However, with the advance of process, the required memory capacity increases, and the material of word lines changes from polysilicon to a metal. Thus, although the dummy word line delay decreases, the interconnect delay up to the sense amplifier becomes equal to or more than the word line delay and cannot be neglected any more.
Additionally, after word line activation in the cell array, the potential difference between the pair of bit lines closest to the row decoder is different from that in the pair of bit lines farthest from the row decoder because of the interconnect delay up to the farthest sense amplifier. For example, assume that 512 cell arrays are arranged, and the farthest sense amplifier should start sensing when the potential difference between the pair of bit lines is 100 mV. In this case, however, the potential difference between the pair of bit lines reaches 130 mV because of the interconnect delay up to the sense amplifier.
FIG. 7 shows an example of the potential difference between the pair of bit lines in this operation. As shown in FIG. 7, when a potential difference ΔLBL in a pair of bit lines is 100 mV, the sense start signal is activated. However, the farthest pair of bit lines starts sensing with a considerably large potential difference because of the interconnect delay of the sense start signal. Although the large potential difference between the pair of bit lines is welcome from the viewpoint of a larger sense margin, it also limits the operation speed. For a faster operation, it is necessary to decrease the above-described interconnect delay up to the extra sense amplifier.

Semiconductor memory device having replica circuit


A luminaire which has in its housing a multiplicity of groups of light emitters of different colors or pluralities of optical waveguides constructed to emit light progressively along the lengths thereof and a diffuser at which the colors can be mixed and from which the light emerges. The emitters can be controlled at the housing or light can be delivered to the optical waveguides by optical fibers from remote light sources.

In general, artificial light sources are available in either a predetermined broad spectrum or in an almost monochromatic form. Some well known "white" light sources include incandescent lamps, high intensity discharge (HID) light sources and fluorescent light sources. Among the better known monochromatic light sources we can cite light emitting diodes, lasers of all types and gas discharge tubes. What has not been freely available heretofore, is an efficient light source with a temporally variable spectral output, or at least a time-variable appearance. Currently, when the need for such means of illumination arises, one can either use filters to allow only part of the spectrum of a white light source to be seen, or, one can use discrete light sources of different spectral distribution to illuminate a single scene. Both of these approaches are cumbersome.
For instance, when using filters, the segment of the spectrum filtered out is lost to absorption and thus there is a major reduction in the system efficiency. It is desirable to have flat light sources with variable chromaticity and a large degree of luminance homogeneity, which can be modular so as to allow for stepwise increase in total light output from single powering source.
In most current lighting systems, the conversion of electrical power to light flux occurs at the point of use of the light. Since the efficiency of conversion of electricity to visible light is rarely more than 25%, and in some very large light sources, 30%, a large amount of heat must be dissipated at the point of use of the light. Furthermore, there are special situations, particularly in hazardous environments, where it is not desirable to have electrical connectors, conductors or any electrically powered devices within the space that is to be illuminated. In such areas the light sources and their associated wiring must be enclosed in special enclosures, a fact that increases installation costs and reduces efficiency of light output utility. It is thus desirable to provide luminaires which are remotely powered so as to allow for heat withdrawal at the remote location where electricity is converted to light, allow safe installation in hazardous environment, and provide for controllable chromaticity.
Light sources of the latter type can be used in a broad variety of environments including photographic dark rooms, semiconductor and other clean room manufacturing environments as well as in chemical plants where explosive or flammable products are being manufactured.