A limited search variant of the fixed delay tree search detector is used to recover digital signals corrupted with intersymbol interference and additive noise. The limited search algorithm uses a variant of an equalizer decision device--a simple slicer--to reduce the number of paths that are considered by the tree search detector from M.sup.D+1 to either D+1 or 2.sup.D+1 paths, thereby significantly reducing the complexity of the tree-search detector. This limited search detector enjoys negligible loss in performance, compared with that of a full fixed delay tree search.

Intersymbol interference (ISI) is often a major factor which limits performance of digital communication systems employed to transmit digital data over a time-dispersive channel, such as a telephone line. Over the past few decades, a number of signal processing techniques have been developed for use in receivers for channels subject to ISI. These techniques include the use of linear equalization, a decision feedback equalizer (DFE), and maximum likelihood sequence estimation (MSLE). Both linear and decision feedback equalization are oriented toward simplicity and low complexity, sacrificing performance. On the other hand, an MLSE, such as that described in an article by G. D. Forney, entitled: "Maximum-Likelihood Sequence Estimation of Digital Sequences in the Presence of Intersymbol Interference," IEEE Transactions on Information Theory, Vol. IT-18, No. 3, May 1972, pp. 363-378, and a maximum a priori (MAP) symbol-by-symbol estimator, as described in an article by K. Abend et al "Statistical Detection for Communication Channels with Intersymbol Interference," Proceedings of the IEEE, Vol. 58, No. 5, May 1970, pp. 779-785, and in an article by J. F. Hayes et al, entitled: "Optimal Sequence Detection and Optimal Symbol-by-Symbol Detection: Similar Algorithms," IEEE Transactions on Information Theory, Vol. IT-18, No. 3, May, 1972, pp. 363-378, seek optimum or near optimum performance, but do so at a cost of substantially increased computational and data storage requirements.
More recently, symbol detection schemes have been developed that approach the performance of these optimal techniques, but at a much lower complexity. These techniques include the reduced state sequence estimator (RSSE), as described in an article by A. Duel-Hallen et al, entitled: "Delayed Decision-Feedback Sequence Estimation," IEEE Transactions on Communications," Vol. 37, May 1989, pp. 428-436, and in an article by M. V. Eyuboglu et al, entitled: "Reduced-State Sequence Estimation with Set Partitioning and Decision Feedback," IEEE Transactions on Communications," Vol. 36, January 1988, pp. 13-20, and the fixed delay tree search (FDTS) mechanism, as described in an article by A. P. Clark et al, entitled: "Developments of the Conventional Nonlinear Equalizer," IEE Proceedings, Vol. 129, Pt. F, No. 2, April 1982, pp. 85-94, articles by J. Moon et al, entitled: "Efficient Sequence Detection for Intersymbol Interference Channels with Run-Length Constraints," IEEE Transactions on Communications, Vol. 42, No. 9, September, 1994, pp. 2654-2660, and "Performance Comparison of Detection Methods in Magnetic Recording," IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, Vol. 26, No. 6, November 1990, pp. 3155-3172, an article by J. G. Proakis et al, entitled: "A Decision-Feedback Tree-Search Algorithm for Digital Communication through Channels with Intersymbol Interference," 1986 ICC Conference Proceedings, pp. 657-661, and an article by D. Williamson et al, entitled: "Block Decision Feedback Equalization," IEEE Transactions on communications, Vol. 40, No. 2, February 1992, pp. 255-264.
The RSSE is a simplification of the MLSE, which reduces complexity by limiting the dimensionality of the trellis. The FDTS scheme is a simplification of the MAP symbol-by-symbol detector, using decision feedback to limit complexity. (In the present description, it is to be understood that the term FDTS applies to general techniques used in a variety of sources under various names, and is not necessarily limited to the specific FDTS/DF proposed in the above-referenced Moon et al article for a magnetic recording channel.) Both of these reduced complexity techniques (RSSE and FDTS) decrease complexity by considering only a portion of channel ISI in the enhanced decision techniques, and using low complexity linear or decision feedback equalization to handle the remaining portion of the ISI.
For the case of pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) communication signals, such as 2B1Q modulation used in high speed data service loop (HDSL) signals, as a non-limiting example, such a dispersive channel may be diagrammatically illustrated in FIG. 1, as a discrete finite impulse response (FIR) additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel model applied to a continuous time linear system with correlated noise by using the whitened matched filter described in the above-referenced Forney article.
In accordance with this discrete model, a sequence of symbols u.sub.i ! chosen from an M-ary alphabet A={-M+1, -M+3, . . . , M-3, M-1} is transmitted. The transport of the input sequence u.sub.i } through the channel h.sub.k, shown at 10 results in the output sequence {y.sub.i }, given by ##EQU1## where {h.sub.k =0, 1, . . . ,N} is the FIR channel response, and {W.sub.i } is a sequence of noise samples, injected or summed at 12, which is white and Gaussian, with a zero mean and a variance .sigma..sup.2.
At the receive end of the channel, the combined noise plus information signal w.sub.i +s.sub.i =y.sub.i is processed by means of a signal processor 14 to produce an output signal sequence u.sub.i-D, representative of what symbols were actually transmitted. As described in the second of the above-referenced Moon et al articles, the FDTS scheme can be viewed as a depth-limited tree-search. It can also be viewed as a limited trellis search, or a multi-dimensional decision space, as described in the Williamson et al article.
FIG. 2 diagrammatically illustrates an M-ary search tree, for the case of 2B1Q signals, as an example, in which the tree has M=4 branches emanating from each node, to represent four possible 2B1Q symbols (-3, -1, +1, +3) at each symbol time. A sequence of input symbols will result in a path through the search tree. Although the search tree may grow exponentially without bound, the FDTS technique limits the size of the tree by making a decision at time i, thus eliminating all paths that do not contain the chosen symbol at that time.
The FDTS mechanism makes a decision at time i by looking ahead D levels in the tree and computing a cumulative error metric for each of the possible paths through the tree, namely M.sup.D+1 paths, each with D+1 branches. The error metric is a function of both the received data, y.sub.i, y.sub.i+1, . . . , y.sub.i+D !, and the symbols associated with the decision path. The decision is the symbol associated with the first branch of the path which has the smallest error metric. Feedback of past decisions {u.sub.m, i-N.ltoreq.m<i} is used to keep the root node of the tree aligned with the decision time i.
The input symbol associated with a branch at time i is denoted by x.sub.i, where x.sub.i .di-elect cons.A. Each path of look-ahead depth j is denoted by the vector of the input symbols associated with each branch in the path: X.sub.i,j =x.sub.i,x.sub.i+1, . . . ,x.sub.i+j !. Each path has associated with it an output symbol, v.sub.i,j (X.sub.i,j), and a last branch error metric, e.sub.i,j (X.sub.i,j). The input to the FDTS is a vector of partially decision-feedback-equalized received signals.
The D+1 components of the input vector Z.sup.i are computed using ##EQU2## for j=0, 1, . . . , D.
Rewriting equation (2) in recursive form as equations (3) and (4) below reveals that the summation represents decision feedback. Namely, ##EQU3## and EQU Z.sub.i+1,j-1 =Z.sub.i,j -u.sub.j h.sub.j,j=1,2, . . . ,D (4)
Equation (3) represents partial decision feedback equalization, where the first D taps of the feedback filter are set to 0, allowing the decision algorithm to make use of the remaining ISI. Equation (4) updates each vector component as a new decision is made and a new sample y.sub.i+D is received.
The decision u.sub.i is formed by searching all M.sup.D+1 tree paths, X.sub.i,D =x.sub.i,x.sub.i+1, . . . ,x.sub.i+D !, and selecting that path U.sub.i+D, which minimizes the cumulative error metric: ##EQU4## is the ideal noise free (partially decision-feedback-equalized) output signal, and e.sub.i,j (X.sub.i,j) is the branch error, for the last branch in the path of look-ahead depth j.
The decision u.sub.i is that symbol associated with the first branch of the path selected: ##EQU5## where the column vector on the right side of equation (7) selects the first component of the path vector.
In the first of the above-referenced articles by J. Moon et al, and the article by Williamson et al, it is shown that, in the absence of past decision errors, this decision metric is asymptotically equivalent to the MAP estimate for the transmitted symbol u.sub.i, given delay D and high-SNR.
Because the conventional FDTS scheme takes into consideration each of the possible M.sup.D+1 paths through the tree, it is both computationally complex and has very substantial data storage requirements.

Decision path reduction of M-ary tree-search detector


An integrated circuit (IC) device test handler which is adaptable to receive various customer tray configurations and automatically test the ICs within. The test handler comprises a customer tray magazine input area, a load section, a soak chamber, a test section, an unsoak chamber and an unload area. Two magazines containing customer trays with IC devices are input to the handler. An elevator mechanism raises the customer trays within one magazine at a time to a position which can be accessed by the loader of the test handler. A catcher device moves the trays to a buffer platform where the trays can be accessed by a transfer arm. The transfer arms moves the customer trays to one of two load stages. A pick and place apparatus removes the IC devices from each customer tray on the load stages and transfers them to a precisor for alignment and then to a test tray. The test trays are conveyed through a soak chamber to simulate certain environmental conditions and then through a double test head chamber where the IC devices are tested. The test trays are returned to ambient conditions through an unsoak chamber. A pair of unload pick and place apparatus move tested IC devices from the test trays to customer trays waiting on unload stages. The transfer arm moves the customer trays to various tray magazines based on the test results. Elevators under the magazines step down as each full customer tray is placed thereon.

In the electronics industry, there is a constant demand for electronic devices, such as integrated circuits or semiconductor chips, to be produced less expensively and in smaller dimensions. One way to increase productivity of such electronic devices, and thereby reduce their unit cost, is to increase the test speed of the devices by testing a plurality of them at the same time.
It has become a test technology standard to place a number of electronic devices to be tested on a test tray and position them so as to be engaged by a test head plate having a number of corresponding test contactors. One device is placed on a seat of a carrier module, and each carrier module is provided with one or more device seats. A number of modules are then positioned by column and row on a test tray. The test tray, having a number of such carrier modules, is arranged so as to be in vertical alignment (either above or below) with a test fixture.
The test fixture includes test contactors (test pins) for contact with the pins of each device to be tested for supplying and receiving the test signals from the device. Each module is aligned with a corresponding test contactor so that when either the test tray or the test fixture are moved in a vertical direction toward the other, the contactor engages the electronic device positioned within the carrier module.
The contactor is provided with a number of test pins or leads which come into electrical communication with the leads of the electronic devices to be tested. The automatic test handler is electrically connected to a electronic device test system, for example, an IC tester which includes a test signal generator for supplying a test signal to the device, and with a signal comparator for analyzing the results of the test. Based on such results, the electronic devices are transferred to another location in the test process and sorted for proper handling.
In test handling equipment of the prior art, a number of disadvantages have become apparent. First, even with such automatic handling equipment, there is a need for extensive handling of individual ICs or chips. For example, there is a need to remove the electronic devices to be tested from a container and to place the devices in an appropriate position on the test tray prior to testing. It is also necessary, following the test, to remove the tested devices from the test tray, to sort them based on the test results, and to replace the devices into their original containers for return shipping to the customer or other appropriate destination.
Because of recent demands in the electronics industry, various new types of IC packaging have been developed. Furthermore, containers for such new IC packages have also been developed and are changing in configuration from time to time. An example of such a container is referred to as a "customer tray," wherein a number of IC devices are aligned in a horizontal plane in a manner similar to the test tray, as described above. However, customer trays have not been standardized, and the size, shape, capacity and spacing between the seats of the devices vary widely from manufacturer to manufacturer. The spacing in the customer tray may also be different from that required for the test tray. This is particularly true since the test tray requires more accuracy for securing the perfect contact between the test contactor and the IC device leads. Although the customer trays themselves have not been standardized, the industry has standardized the containers, referred to as "cassettes" or "magazines," in which the customer trays are housed for storage and shipping.
Thus, in summary, an automatic test handler is necessary which can be compatible with a wide variety of customer tray configurations and dimensions. At the same time, there is an increasing demand for greater test productivity so as to reduce the cost of IC devices. Moreover, with the decreasing IC size, weight and lead length, accurate testing becomes even a greater challenge.
Thus, there is a serious need in the integrated circuit industry for an automatic test handler which can overcome the problems and disadvantages described above.


A method for ascertaining a physical parameter of a liquid containing gas in the form of suspended bubbles by means of a measuring transducer with an excitable measuring tube serving for guiding the liquid in bending oscillation modes of various eigenfrequencies, includes steps as follows: ascertaining the eigenfrequencies of the f1-mode and the f3-mode; ascertaining preliminary density values for the gas-containing liquid guided in the measuring tube based on the eigenfrequencies of the f1-mode and the f3-mode; ascertaining a value for the velocity of sound of the gas-containing liquid guided in the measuring tube, and/or ascertaining, as a function of the velocity of sound and the eigenfrequency of a mode, at least one correction term and/or density error for the preliminary density value, which was ascertained based on the eigenfrequency of the mode, for determining a corrected density measured value; and/or a correction term for a preliminary mass flow value for determining a corrected mass flow measured value based on the first preliminary density value, the second preliminary density value, the eigenfrequency of the f1-mode and the eigenfrequency of the f3-mode.

Published International Application, WO 01/01086 A1 discloses a method for compressibility compensation in the case of mass flow measurement in a Coriolis mass flow meter. In such case, mass flow measurement is performed in two different modes, of which one is a bending oscillation mode and another a radial oscillation mode. A comparison of the mass flow values ascertained by means of these two modes is used. This is, however, a problematic approach, since the radial mode oscillations have considerable dependence on the flow profile and on the static pressure. Additionally, more sensors than the usual two are required, in order to be able to register both bending oscillations as well as also radial mode oscillations. Equally, a more complex exciter structure is required.

Method for ascertaining a physical parameter of a gas-containing liquid


A gasket provided in a gasket groove, receives the force that acts in the direction in which two pressure-adjusting oil passages are aligned in line, and the magnitude and direction of this force change as the difference between the hydraulic pressures in the pressure-adjusting oil passages varies. However, because the opening of a hydraulic oil supply passage is located on an imaginary line extending through between the openings of the two pressure-adjusting oil passages, pressure is applied from the hydraulic oil supply passage to the gasket, whereby constant and large frictional force occurs between the gasket and the side wall of the gasket groove. Thus, the gasket is firmly retained in the gasket groove, whereby the vibration of the gasket is suppressed.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a cam cap for an internal combustion engine and an oil passage connection structure of a cam cap for establishing an oil passage connection with a cylinder head cover.
2. Description of the Related Art
Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-227321 (JP-A-2003-227321) proposes a cam cap (called "cam bracket" in the publication) having an intake side cam cap portion and an exhaust side cam cap portion that are integrally formed to support the intake camshaft and the exhaust camshaft of an internal combustion engine on journal bearings formed on the cylinder head or the cam housing, respectively. This cam cap involves oil passages through which hydraulic oil is supplied to and drained from a single oil control valve (called "hydraulic pressure control valve" in the publication) provided in the cylinder head cover, and hydraulic oil is supplied, at a pressure adjusted by the oil control valve, to only one of the camshafts. More specifically, the pressure-adjusted hydraulic oil is supplied to a variable valve timing mechanism provided at one end of one of the camshafts to adjust the operation timing of the exhaust valves or the intake valves as needed. Note that, in the specification of the present invention, the phrase "pressure adjusting" includes starting and stopping the application of hydraulic pressure, as well as adjusting the hydraulic pressure level.
According to Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-227321, the joint between the oil passage connection face of the cam cap and the oil passage connection face of the cylinder head cover is sealed by a gasket that serves also as an oil filter. Thus, the gasket is retained in position by being sandwiched between the flat oil passage connection face of the cam cap and the flat oil passage connection face of the cylinder head cover.
When using such a gasket used also as an oil filter, however, it is necessary to provide a locating post on the oil passage connection faces as described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-227321. Thus, the outline of each oil passage connection face becomes complicated and large in size.
To avoid such a problem, one option is to provide a separate oil filter and form a gasket groove in the oil passage connection face and fit a gasket in the gasket groove. In this case, the respective parts can be located in their positions by simply fitting a gasket in the gasket groove and the shape of the structure around the oil passage connection face does not become complicated and large in size.
However, the difference between the hydraulic pressure in one of two pressure-adjusting oil passages and the hydraulic pressure in the other varies as the valve timing control by the oil control valve is repeatedly switched between the mode for advancing the valve timing and the mode for retarding the valve timing and as the operation for the valve timing control is repeatedly activated and stopped. This hydraulic pressure difference may cause the gasket to slide in the gasket groove, and it may cause wear of the gasket.

Cam cap and oil passage connection structure


An inter-line fishing rod in which a fishline is to be inserted into and passed through the inside of the rod and which includes a fishline guide sleeve fitted on the tip portion of the body o the rod, and a fishline guide ring provided on the sleeve at the front end thereof, wherein the radius of curvature of the fishline guide surface of the ring in the cross section thereof is not less than a half of the inside diameter of the tip portion. According to this arrangement, the friction resistance of the inter-line fishing rod to the movement of the fishline at the time of winding and/or unwinding thereof through the rod can be significantly reduced.

The present invention relates to an inter-line fishing rod in which a fishline is to be inserted into and passed through the inside of a fishing rod.
Such inter-line fishing rod includes a fishline guide sleeve securely fitted on the tip portion of a body of the rod and includes a fishline guide ring provided on the sleeve at the front end thereof, as disclosed in the Japan Utility Model Examined Publication No. Sho. 31-13268. However, the conventional inter-line fishing rod has a problem in that when the fishline is wound and unwound through the fishing rod, the friction resistance between the rod and the fishline is high as compared with ordinary type fishing rod. Further, the smaller the diameter of the fishing rod, the higher the friction resistance. For that reason, it has been considered that it is hard to operate the conventional inter-line fishing rod in comparison with the ordinary type fishing rod.


A laser ablation process for preparing an oxide superconducting thin film characterized in that an electrode is arranged between a substrate and a target. While the film is formed by laser ablation, a bias voltage of 75-100 V is applied between the electrode and the target.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a laser ablation process for preparing a superconducting thin film and an apparatus for executing such a process, and more specifically to a laser ablation process for preparing a superconducting thin film formed of a compound oxide superconductor material, and an apparatus for executing the process.
2. Description of Related Art
A superconducting phenomenon is used to be though as a phenomenon which occurs at extremely low temperature which is realized by liquid helium cooling. However, Bednorz and Muller et al discovered [La,Ba].sub.2 CuO.sub.4 compound oxide superconductor which is superconducting at a temperature of 30K in 1986, Chu et al discovered Y.sub.1 Ba.sub.2 Cu.sub.3 O.sub.7-.delta. compound oxide superconductor of which the critical temperature T.sub.c is in the range of 90K in 1987, Maeda et al discovered compound oxide superconductors of so called Bi family of which the critical temperature T.sub.c is higher than 100K in 1988. Since these high-T.sub.c copper-oxide type compound oxide superconductors are superconducting by cheep liquid nitrogen cooling, practical applications of superconducting phenomena have been studied by many researchers.
At the beginning, these compound oxide superconductors were prepared as sintered material which were synthesized by solid phase reactions. In these days, the studies have progressed so that extremely high quality compound oxide superconductor thin films have been prepared.
In the prior art, a compound oxide superconductor thin film is deposited on a substrate at substrate temperatures over 700.degree. C. by a laser ablation process which is one of the most suitable process for preparing a compound oxide superconductor thin film. This high substrate temperature causes diffusion of constituent atoms into the depositing compound oxide superconductor thin film. The diffusion of the constituent atoms of the substrate may deteriorate properties of a compound oxide superconductor thin film considerably.

Laser ablation process for preparing oxide superconducting thin films


A program compatibility recognition system for an integrated circuit. A programming device 4, including programming software 8, is used to program an integrated circuit 2 such as a field programmable gate array. The programming device provides a revision code 12 to a detection circuit 10 on the integrated circuit. The detection circuit determines if the revision code indicates that the software is compatible with the integrated circuit and, if so, generates an appropriate control signal to permit the programming device to program the integrated circuit.

The present invention relates to the field of integrated circuits, their manufacture, and use. More specifically, in one embodiment the invention provides an improved method and device for ensuring that an integrated circuit is compatible with a configuration program. The invention has application to an array of integrated circuits such as programmable logic devices, otherwise referred to as PLDs, PALs, PLAs, FPLAs, EPLDs, EEPLDs, LCAs, and FPGAs.
Many types of integrated circuits are programmed by an external device such as a computer. As such integrated circuits are modified, updated, and improved, they undergo various revisions. At the same time, it sometimes becomes necessary to make revisions to the external programming device to accommodate changes in the integrated circuit and to otherwise improve the programming device. Such changes are often accomplished through revisions in the software of the external programming device.
As the software and integrated circuits undergo various revisions, it is necessary to "keep track" of the revisions such that it is possible to ensure that a particular revision of the software is compatible with a particular revision of the integrated circuit. This has often presented a difficult problem.
Various solutions have been proposed to accomplish this task. For example, certain programmable logic devices have applied a predetermined signal to one or more pins on the programmable logic device, and this signal causes the device to generate an ID code as a binary signal along one or more separate pins on the device. This binary code is generated by way of a ROM field on the chip, and is read by the programming device and its associated software. Depending upon the value of the binary code, the programming software may utilize a different programming algorithm to program the device.
While meeting with substantial success, prior techniques for managing revisions of integrated circuits and their programming software have also met with significant limitations. For example, when the software and the integrated circuit are incompatible, the programming effort will fail, but it is often difficult to determine why the failure has occurred. This problem arises because the output of the integrated circuit indicates which revision of the code to use, but if the code does not have that particular revision available, there is often an unidentifiable failure. Therefore, the user may not be aware that the failure arose due to incompatibility of the software and the integrated circuit. Moreover, the programmer of the software has limited control over upward and downward compatibility of the various revisions of the software.
Some types of integrated circuits have programming elements made of SRAM. The programming process of physically loading the SRAM data into the integrated circuit is called "configuration." The configuration data sometimes is stored in a "dumb" memory device, such as a low-cost EPROM, when the system does not equip a host computer as an intelligent programming controller. Usually it is advantageous to have the device configuration occur automatically at system power-up. In this case, during power-up, the EPROM device starts "blindly" sending data to the SRAM-based IC, and it is the responsibility of the device to be configured (i.e., the SRAM-based device) to determine the program compatibility. Prior techniques did not work well when a system lacked a host computer for intelligent control, and the programming device was so "dumb" that a hand-shaking with the device being programmed did not exist. This invention also provides a means to recognize a program compatibility for in-circuit or on-board configuration (with or without a host computer).
From the above it is seen that an improved method and system for program/integrated circuit compatibility is needed.

Program compatibility recognition for a programmable logic device


The present invention is related to a pocketed business communication construction, such as a presentation folder, that includes at least one independently, automatically erectable piece for displaying promotion of marketing, advertising or contact information. The assembly is used to contain complimentary and related printed pieces which are held by one or more sleeves or pockets integrally connected to a variably imaged substrate. One or more passive retaining means are provided integrally with at least one of the pocketed configurations to removably hold a biased attention direction piece. The piece is printed with matching and/or complimentary information to that contained by the pocketed communication.

There are currently a plethora of business communication constructions, marketing and advertising pieces and other items that are available in the market today for communicating products and services with an intended audience. Yet with this inordinately large selection of offerings and permutations, there remains a continuing need to develop new products due to changes in technology, societal trends, diversification of marketing, packaging and advertising campaigns and new information handling needs of businesses and consumers alike.
Stock presentation folders are generally well known today and are provided in a variety of colors and typically in several standard formats. Such stock products are created from a blank of material to which at least one and usually two pockets are provided on the inner face of the blank. The pockets are generally formed from the same sheet or blank and are then folded over onto the blank and sealed to the blank to create the pockets. The blank is then folded, usually centrally, to form two relatively equal sides.
Such folders are used in a number of applications ranging from academic, such as in elementary, middle school, high school or collegiate environments and for other education purposes including seminars and technical symposiums. In addition, folders have also been used in the past to hand out information on products and services in the hopes of inducing purchases or sales of such products or services such as may be the case with marketing and advertising campaigns and in connection with professional development activities and services.
These prior art folders have been generally provided in a broad spectrum of colors and can even have different finishes such as glossy or a metallic appearance in order to supplement the product of topic offering. In addition, such prior art products may also be provided with textural or tactile features so as to resemble grains in leather or wood, again all in an effort to produce or tailor the communication vehicle to the audience or presenter to garner more attention for the products or services being offered.
Examples of such prior art folders include U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,870,223, 4,109,850, 4,301,962, 4,731,142, 4,989,777 and 5,836,507. Each of these prior art constructions are constructed from a single blank of material. That is, the portion making up the folder which comprises the pocket, are part of the same blank. The portion which becomes the pocket is then folded onto the folder portion to create the pocket portion. Such constructions normally require the manufacturer to purchase expensive and complicated folding equipment in order to process and fold the pocket portion, see for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,439,436 and 6,063,226.
One of the difficulties with such stock folder products is that the user of such products must order the folders in large lots or amounts, or must select the folder from a generic stock inventory that may only have a pre-determined number of colors or finish options. If a presenter or distributor would prefer to have at least limited information printed on the folder, such as the name of the company or presenter or to have certain colors or finishes that represent the company, such as to emphasize the trade dress, then the user is stuck with the unfortunate option of having to order such products in large quantities typically greater than 50 and more and often more typically in the hundreds or thousands of pieces as the set up for the production or manufacture of folders is complex and orders in the hundreds or thousands of units is normally required by the manufacturer due to the complexity associated with such set up of equipment. This dilemma has apparently, unfortunately thwarted the growth of the folder industry and prevented the use of this tool from expanding its utilization and communication potential to users of the product as an advertising vehicle.
The difficulty with current stock folder offerings is that the purchaser must also select from a number of pre-arranged configurations. If all business, products and marketing tools were also standardized, this would not be a problem. However, in an effort to market products, marketing and advertising materials come in an array of shapes, sizes and substances. Thus, a standard configuration may not lend itself to an advertising or marketing message that has a particular "map" or arrangement that requires different pieces to appear in different areas.
Another problem faced by users of such stock folders is that they have virtually no personalized or individualized information. For example, in a typical introductory business meeting between two entities, the attendees may include an executive, members of sales and marketing and production personnel. Distributing the exact same information to each attendee may result in the information simply being deposited into the attendee's files, instead of the presenter's intent of delivering a specific message to each participant. Any personalized or individualized information is then limited to the sheets that are included inside the folders and those specific to a particular attendee may be buried deep within myriad of pages of information provided to the attendees. Alternatively, some level of personalization can be applied through the application of labels to the exterior of the folder.
Attempts at personalization or individualization have sometimes been elaborate, such as that illustrated by U.S. Pat. No. 5,882,038 in which a personalized sheet is printed and then inserted so that the personalized information is then visible through die cut windows in the blank. As one might imagine, this limits the amount of personalization that can be provided and also requires that the information be aligned with the windows in the folder assembly so that it is visible. In fact, this construction highlights the difficulty in providing personalization in a custom or stock folder offering.
In addition to the foregoing problems enumerated above as well as the steps of folding the blank and the equipment required to achieve those tasks, in order to manufacture such a product one needs to add additional die cutting stations and then is faced with the challenge of inserting the personalized sheet of information. In preparing for a meeting, even a small meeting, having to insert 10 sheets into 10 different folders can be time consuming, particularly if one is rushed in trying to get to the meeting.
Pop-up advertising assemblies are also relatively well known in the art such as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,874,356, 4,867,480, 4,833,802 and 4,349,973 each of which disclose pop-up configurations which have historically been provided with greeting cards, promotional or direct mailing pieces, in store or retail type displays and the like. Pop-up configurations have also widely been used in illustrating literary works, particularly books and other publications that have been used to increase readership among children.
What is needed therefore is a communication piece that is self erecting, can be produced economically and efficiently and is provided in connection with a pocketed business communication piece such as a presentation folder. A combination attention direction device along with a pocketed business communication that can be imaged with matching personalized indicia can then be used to convey a complete message.
Publications, patents and patent applications are referred to throughout this disclosure. All references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference.

Pocketed business communication assembly having resiliently biased attention direction piece imaged with matching indicia


A connector is disclosed for a battery having upper and lower terminals. The connector is in the form of a flexible circuit that is bent around one side of the battery, and includes an upper section overlying the upper terminal of the battery and a lower section below the lower terminal of the battery. The upper and lower sections of the flexible circuit have conductors thereon that engage the battery terminals. The conductors extend to a connecting section of the flexible circuit to make electrical contact with the conductors of an electronic component.

The present invention relates generally to an electrical connector and, more particularly, to an electrical connector for use with a battery having upper and lower terminals.
Batteries are in common use in portable and small electrical apparatus, such as calculators, clocks, wristwatches, hearing aids, IC cards, car alarm activators, etc., to provide an electric current to electronic components mounted therein, such as a circuit board, LED, or other electronic devices. Typically, the electrical connection between the battery and the electronic component is made by a pair of stamped and formed metal contacts. The two contacts often have a different configuration, and the assembly of the two parts into the apparatus housing increases the cost of the apparatus. Furthermore, frequently due to the configuration of the contacts, the battery connector has a higher profile than is desired for some applications.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a simple, low cost, low profile battery connector.
It is another object of the invention to provide such a battery connector that is integrated with an input/output connector for use with an IC card.


A circuit for implementing a plurality of circuits on a programmable logic device, the circuit comprising a first circuit implemented on a first portion of the programmable logic device; a second circuit implemented on a second portion of the programmable logic device; and a control circuit coupled to the first circuit and the second circuit, the control circuit providing isolation between the first circuit and the second circuit. While the first circuit and the second circuit may comprise redundant circuits implementing a common function, the circuits may also comprise circuits which must be isolated, such as an encryption circuit and a decryption circuit implementing a cryptographic function. A method for implementing a plurality of circuits on a programmable logic device is also disclosed.

Certain applications of electronic systems, such as military, aerospace, and high-reliability communications, require certain safeguards to ensure the integrity of the applications. One way to promote integrity of an application is to provide redundancy to ensure that the data for the application is correctly processed and retained. In the event of a failure of one circuit, the data of the redundant circuit may be used. Also, the detection of errors may also be required in these applications, even if the likelihood of such an occurrence is extremely low, in order to provide high accuracy. Furthermore, applications running in redundant systems require fast detection and correction of an error in order to minimize the impact upon the operation. Even a rare single event upset (SEU) must be detected so that appropriate system measures may be taken to ensure a very high uptime of the circuit. In certain circumstances, automatic correction of errors may also provide a significant advantage. For example, when processing real-time data, automatic correction of errors allows the operation of the circuit to continue without the need for a system reset. When employing a programmable logic device, error correction allows much faster system recovery time because the device does not need to be completely reconfigured, which may require many seconds of system downtime.
In other applications of electronic systems, the integrity of a system is maintained by providing separate integrated circuits for portions of the system. For example, in an encryption system, non-encrypted signals, often called red signal, must be isolated from a circuit providing access to encrypted signals, often called black signals. That is, careful segregation of signals is required in cryptographic systems that contain sensitive or classified plaintext information (i.e. red signals) and encrypted information, or ciphertext (i.e. black signals).
One class of integrated circuits which may be used to implement circuits requiring the integrity of data to be maintained is a programmable logic device (PLD). A PLD is designed to be user-programmable so that users may implement logic designs of their choices. Programmable logic circuits of a PLD comprise gates which are configurable by a user of the circuit to implement a circuit design of the user. One type of PLD is the Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), which comprises two or more "function blocks" connected together and to input/output (I/O) resources by an interconnect switch matrix. Another type of PLD is a field programmable gate array (FPGA). In a typical FPGA, an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs) is coupled to programmable input/output blocks (IOBs). The CLBs and IOBs are interconnected by a hierarchy of programmable routing resources. For both of these types of programmable logic devices, the functionality of the device is controlled by configuration data bits of a configuration bitstream provided to the device for that purpose.
A PLD comprises circuit elements formed in a substrate and a plurality of metal layers coupling the circuit elements. The metal layers may comprise metal layers for connecting elements of a functional block, while other layers are used for connecting the various functional blocks. For example, the first five layers may comprise local routing conductors used for connecting circuit elements of the various functional blocks, such as memory elements or CLBs of a programmable logic device, while the upper six layers may comprise the interconnect circuits (i.e. conductors for connecting the various functional blocks). The even layers of the interconnect circuits may be used to route signals in a longitudinal direction, while the odd layers may be used to route signals in a lateral direction. The length of a conductor of the interconnect circuits may be defined by the number of conductor segments coupled between a pair of programmable interconnect points (PIPs) which enable local routing. Relatively short conductors (e.g. "double lines" comprising two segments between PIPs) may be included in a first pair of horizontal and vertical metal layers. Similarly, "hex lines" comprising six segments coupled between PIPs may be formed on another pair of horizontal and vertical metal layers. Finally, long conductors may be formed on another pair of horizontal and vertical metal layers. The long conductors may extend between the edges of the integrated circuit, for example. Alternatively, in larger programmable logic devices having a large number of columns, such as 150 columns, for example, long lines may extend a smaller number of columns, such as 32 columns.
PLDs also have different "modes" depending on the operations being performed on them. A specific protocol allows a programmable logic device to enter into the appropriate mode. Typical PLDs have internal blocks of configuration memory which specify how each of the programmable cells will emulate the user's logic. During a "program" mode, a configuration bitstream is provided to non-volatile memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM), either external or internal to the programmable logic device. Each address is typically accessed by specifying its row and column addresses. During system power up of a "startup" mode, the configuration bits are successively loaded from the non-volatile memory into static random access memory (SRAM) configuration latches of a configuration logic block. At the end of this start-up phase, the PLD is now specialized to the user's design, and the PLD enters into "user" mode as part of its normal operation.
In order for the PLD to function properly, it is necessary that the data loaded into a memory is not corrupted. Data in a PLD may be corrupted for a variety of reasons. For example, there may be a latent defect in the device. The device may also be affected by a single event upset (SEU), such as a cosmic ray striking a storage element of the device. Finally, the device may be subjected to an adversarial attack, such as an attack by a third party attempting to intercept data. For example, an unauthorized third party may attempt to access decrypted data in a data encryption system. However, because of the nature of the interconnect circuits of a programmable logic device, a single conventional programmable logic device does not provide adequate isolation for circuits requiring data integrity, such as redundant circuits or circuits requiring strict isolation such as encryption circuits.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved circuit for and method of implementing a plurality of circuits on a programmable logic device.

Circuit for and method of implementing a plurality of circuits on a programmable logic device


A method and system are described for generating railing objects that model railing structures, such as fences. According to the method, a railing object is generated along a path within a design layout. As rendered, the railing object includes posts and railings, with the option of using filling material between the posts. According to one variation, the railing object substantially follows an existing path. The railing object may comprise an increasing number of segments to better follow the curvature of the path. Any modification applied to the path is automatically applied to the railing object after the railing object is applied to the path. That is, every railing object component (e.g. post, railing, fencing) will be repositioned along the new position of the path. A mechanism is provided for automatically applying the modifications to the geometric dimensions of a single component instance of a railing object to every instance of that component on the railing object. A mechanism is also provided for positioning corners in the railing object to match corners on the path.

The present invention generally relates to computer software, and more specifically to a method for generating a railing structure.
Computer hardware and computer software programs have revolutionized the way we work, shop, and do business. In general, computers have increased our productivity by providing a mechanism that allows us to do more in less time. For example, many labor and time intensive tasks of the past, such as ledge bookkeeping and mathematical problem-solving are now performed in a number of minutes using a variety of accounting and statistical computer programs. In addition, computers have also enhanced the productivity of both architects and engineering designers. Today, few architecture schematics are created at a drafting table with pencils, drafting paper, and rulers. Instead, three-dimensional architecture and landscape designs are typically conceptualized and modeled through the use of computer software programs.
For example, architecture design programs, generally known as computer aided design (CAD) programs, provide a designing tool that allows architects, interior designers, land planners, and civil engineers to conceptualize and present design layouts. By simulating the layout of a particular design, a significant reduction in manufacturing costs may be realized as mistakes can be identified and corrected prior to the construction or manufacture of particular a design.
In general, CAD applications are particularly helpful in conceptualizing design layouts that traditionally have been tedious, laborious, and time intensive processes to perform. In addition, the overall design process has been aided by the increased development of easy to use control software, commonly referred to as a graphical user interface (GUI). For example, most CAD applications include some sort of GUI. These GUIs provide a user interface in which a user may use a mouse or other cursor input control device to select (point and click) and/or move (drag and drop) objects on a visual display. Many GUIs also include user friendly menus such as toolbars or other types of pull-down menus that allow users to select from a variety of cursor control options.
In general, CAD applications typically include the ability to add text, to paint, to rotate, or to move or place an object in a scene, or to undo or redo a previous action. In addition, many CAD applications further allow the user to add shading and lighting to an object, to view the design from various viewpoints, to zoom in on a particular component, to rotate and scale components, or to change the geometry of a component. These features provide ease of use in producing conceptual designs and the presentation of numerous design concepts from different visual perspectives.
Notwithstanding the great technological advances in computerized architectural design programs, certain labor intensive tasks persist, albeit on a computer. One labor intensive task that has persisted relates to the drafting and manipulation of railing structures. In this context, a railing structure is broadly defined as any structure that includes:
(1) a first set of one or more components that extend from a path, such as posts in a fence, and
(2) a second set of one or more components, such as a hand rail on a banister, that intersect the first set of components in such a manner that the spacing between the points at which the components in the first set intersect a component in the second set remains substantially constant.
For the purpose of explanation, components that belong to the first set of components shall be referred to herein as xe2x80x9cpost componentsxe2x80x9d, and components that belong to the second set of components shall be referred to herein as xe2x80x9crail componentsxe2x80x9d. However, it should be noted that these terms do not imply that the components have any visual similarity to conventional posts or rails. Railing structures may include, but are not limited, to such structures as fences, hand railings, balustrades, railroad tracks or any other structures that satisfy the definition provided above.
A drawback with designing railing structures, using CAD or similar architecture design software applications, is that they require tedious and time-consuming manual positioning and placement (e.g. xe2x80x9cdrag and dropxe2x80x9d) of each railing structure component onto the design layout or scene. For example, not only would the construction of a fence require the drafter to manually and precisely position each post, rail, and picket, but also to run the fence along a specific path in the design layout.
In addition, a user also has the drawback of having to ensure that each individual component has uniform dimensions (e.g. height, width, depth). A common method for ensuring that each component has a uniform dimension typically consists of the user creating a single component (e.g. a picket) and then copying it to create all of the other components of the same type. Once the components have been made, the user must meticulously place and associate the components to form the railing structure.
Another drawback with the current computer aided architectural design programs pertains to the manual updating of multiple components of the railing structure. For example, if the user determines that the dimensions of the pickets within a fence need to be modified or changed, the user will be required to individually perform the modification or change on every picket within the fence. In addition, if the user requires the fence to be moved to a different location within the design layout (i.e., follow a different path), the repositioning may require many, if not all, of the railing components to be manually repositioned within the layout.
Still another problem pertains to the structural model of the railing structure. Post components on a fence are generally placed by a user, for structural reasons, where the fence pivots from its original 180 degree direction along a path. However, if a user uses a spacing mechanism to evenly position post components along the path of a railing structure, then the mechanism may not place a post component where the fence pivots in a new direction. Therefore, the structural support of the fence appears unrealistic and awkward. To correct this appearance, users are left with the time and labor intensive task of identifying and then manually repositioning each post component at these pivotal positions.
If errors such as these are not discovered prior to the actual construction of a railing structure, a significant increase in preparatory and material costs may be realized due to a shortage in materials purchased or to the purchase of excess or inadequate materials.
Based on the foregoing, it is highly desirable to provide a mechanism that can reduce the time-consuming, labor intensive task of designing a railing structure.
It is also desirable to provide a mechanism that can reduce the time-consuming, labor intensive task of applying modifications to railing structures.
In addition, it is also desirable to provide a mechanism that can automatically identify where certain railing components, such as posts, are required to be located.
A method and system are provided for generating railing objects that model railing structures. By representing a potentially complex railing structure using a single object, a modeling tool is able to perform automatically many of the operations that would otherwise require manual component-by-component manipulations by a user. According to the method, a railing object, comprising post components and rail components, is generated along a path within a design layout, with the option of using filling material between the post components.
According to one embodiment, the railing object substantially follows an existing path. The railing object may comprise an increasing number of segments to better follow the curvature of the path. After a railing object is applied to a path, any modification applied to the path is automatically applied to the railing object. That is, every railing object component (e.g. post, railing, fencing) will be repositioned along the new position of the path.
According to another aspect, modifications to the geometric dimensions of a single component instance of a railing object are automatically applied to every instance of that component on the railing object.
According to another aspect, corners in the railing object are positioned to match corners on the path.

Method and system for generating railing objects


In accordance with the teachings described herein, systems and methods are provided for generating a seed plan for use in radiation therapy. The system includes an image database, the image database comprising image slices and a seed template database comprising seed templates. A contour engine is configured to generate target contour data to identify one or more objects within each image slice. A reslicer engine is configured to rotate the contoured image about an angle of rotation to produce a resliced contoured image, such that the resliced contoured image is resampled at an angle perpendicular to the angle of rotation and intersecting an isocenter. The system also includes a seed grid engine configured to generate a seed grid perpendicular to the angle of rotation.

1. Field of the Invention
The technology described in this patent document relates generally to the field of reformatting contoured medical images.
2. Description of Related Art
Contouring is the process of identifying an object within an image by outlining or otherwise distinguishing the object from the rest of the image. Medical images, such as CT (computed tomography), MR (magnetic resonance), US (ultrasound), or PET (positron emission tomography) scans, are regularly contoured to identify certain pieces of anatomy within the image. For example, a radiologist or oncologist may contour a medical image to identify a tumor within the image. Software tools are available to assist in this type of "manual" contouring, in which the physician uses the software to create the contour by tracing the boundary of the object or objects within the image.
Three-dimensional scans, such as CT, MRI, and PET scans, produce a series of two-dimensional (2D) image slices that together make up the 3D image. Contouring these types of 3D images typically requires individually contouring each of the 2D images slices, which can be a laborious process. Systems and methods for contouring 3D images are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/772,377, filed on May 3, 2010 and titled "Systems and Methods for Contouring a Set of Medical Images," and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/772,383, filed on May 3, 2010 and titled "Systems and Methods for Generating a Contour for Medical Image," which are incorporated herein by reference.
Contoured image slices are used in radiation therapy procedures to aid a medical practitioner in the planning of radiation delivery, such as the placement of radiation containing seeds. The, contoured areas provide a target for the placement of seeds, however, the medical practitioner may wish to conduct such a procedure at an angle different than the original contoured image slices.
Re-slicing is generally directed to applying an arbitrary angle to rotate and reformat medical images. The angle may include a user-defined angle for reformatting images to be orthogonal to a planned brachytherapy seed planning path or in plane with an external beam entry path. Re-slicing a contoured image involves manipulating both the original image slices and the contoured image slices. There exists a need to reformat image slices in an efficient manner that allows contoured image data to translate to the reformatted image slices and treatment planning to be performed on the reformatted image slices.

System and method of applying an arbitrary angle to reformat medical images


A duct-mountable sensing unit includes a plurality of sensors for detecting respective parameters, including pressure, of a fluid in a duct. The sensing unit enables fluid communication between the sensors and the fluid in the duct through a single insertion point in the duct.

The present invention relates to a sensing unit mountable on a wall of a duct for detecting a plurality of parameters of a fluid in the duct.
Temperature and humidity are primary factors in the comfort and quality of an indoor environment. While temperature is important to comfort, the humidity is a substantial factor in determining whether a specific temperature is comfortable. Temperature is commonly regulated as a function of the relative humidity in a space and humidifiers, to control the relative humidity, are often a part of the heating, cooling and ventilation systems of office buildings and industrial plants.
Relative humidity may be sensed by a sensor that comprises a polymer that is typically mounted on a porous ceramic plate and has a resistivity that changes as a function of the humidity. This type sensor is usually not sufficiently accurate for use with a ventilation system and is subject to deterioration in harsh environments.
A second type of humidity sensor employs a capacitor in which the dielectric comprises environmental air. Since the dielectric constant of air is one and the dielectric constant of water is approximately 80, changes in the relative humidity changes the dielectric constant of the air separating the capacitor plates, and, hence, the capacitance of the sensor. Variation in capacitance can be used in a number of ways in circuits to provide an electrical output that is indicative of the relative humidity.
The accuracy of the variable capacitance sensor depends upon the accuracy of the sensor's nominal capacitance which can be altered by the way in which the capacitor is shipped, handled or otherwise introduced to the environment. Cota, U.S. Pat. No. 5,844,138, discloses a humidity sensing device that includes a humidity sensitive capacitor comprising part of an oscillator circuit. The frequency of the oscillator is a function of the capacitance of the humidity sensitive capacitor which, in turn, is a function of the relative humidity. The true capacitance of the humidity sensitive capacitor is measured against a known standard and stored in a memory in the humidity sensing device. A microprocessor uses the true capacitance data stored in the memory to correct the relative humidity measurements made with the device to account changes in capacitance resulting from aging or from shipping and handling of the device. A voltage divider network in the humidity sensing device provides temperature compensation for the relative humidity measurements. Cota also discloses an apparatus for supporting the humidity sensor in a stream of fluid flowing in a duct. An enclosure with an attached sleeve is bolted to the exterior of the duct with the sleeve projecting through a hole in the duct's wall. The humidity sensitive capacitor is secured in the end of a tube which passes through the sleeve. A swage nut compresses the sleeve to secure the tube and the humidity sensitive element in the fluid flowing in the duct.
Temperature is commonly measured with a thermistor or a resistance temperature detector (RTD) which exploit the predictable change in electrical resistance of certain materials when they are exposed to changing temperatures. Thermistors and RTDs can be very compact enabling a temperature sensor to be included with the humidity sensor in a mounting similar to that disclosed by Cota.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a product of human respiration and, while high levels of carbon dioxide are toxic to humans, the concentration of carbon dioxide in an indoor environment is commonly used as a surrogate to indicate the presence of other indoor pollutants that may cause occupants to grow drowsy, have headaches, or function at a lower activity level. Since human respiration is a primary source of carbon dioxide in indoor environments, building codes typically specify the amount of outdoor air to be added to an interior space by the ventilation system on the basis of the occupancy of the space. In the past, ventilation systems commonly maintained a ventilation rate, at all times, that was sufficient for full occupancy of the space. However, heating, cooling, humidifying and moving this volume of air at times when the occupancy is low is wasteful of energy and expensive. Demand controlled ventilation seeks to vary the amount of outside air added to a space, under conditions of variable and intermittent occupancy, to optimize the comfort and well being of occupants and reduce energy consumption. Carbon dioxide concentration is used as an indicator of the occupancy and as a control parameter for demand controlled ventilation.
The presence of carbon dioxide is typically detected with either a chemical sensor or a non-dispersive infrared sensor. Chemical sensors comprise materials that are sensitive to the presence of CO2 and while they typically consume little energy and can be miniaturized, they have a relatively short lifespan and are subject to drift effecting the short and long term accuracy of the sensor. Non-dispersive infrared sensors comprise a source and a detector of infrared light disposed at opposite ends of a light tube and an interference filter to prevent light, with exception of light absorbed by the gas molecules of interest, from reaching the detector. A gas to be tested is introduced to the light tube and the absorption of a characteristic wavelength of light is measured to determine the presence of CO2 in the gas. Non-dispersive infrared sensors can be expensive but are commonly used because no other known method works as reliably to detect CO2.
A CO2 sensor can be mounted on a wall in the space to be monitored in a manner similar to the installation of a thermostat. The location of the sensor should be selected to expose the sensor to air that is indicative of general conditions within the occupied zone. Locations near doors, windows and air vents or close to where people would regularly sit or stand should be avoided because the CO2 may be locally diluted by air from outside or concentrated by the local activity. A large number of wall mounted sensors are typically required because each sensor is only exposed to the local environment and at least one sensor is typically required in each space. Sensors for humidity and temperature may be combined with a wall mounted CO2 sensor to reduce the number of sensor installations.
CO2 sensors may also be installed on the duct work of an air handling system to detect the concentration of CO2 in the air flowing in the ducts. Duct mounted CO2 sensors are typically arranged to detect CO2 in fluid that is a returning from a space but may also be mounted in the air intake for the ventilation system to measure the CO2 in the intake air. While a ventilation system comprising a plurality of zones typically incorporates a number of sensors, a duct mounted sensor can serve a plurality of zones reducing the required number of sensors. Duct mounting of the CO2 sensor is best applied where the ventilation system operates continuously and where the monitored return airstream serves one or more zones that have similar levels of activity and occupancy at similar times.
In addition to monitoring temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide, sensors may be installed in a duct for detecting other constituents of the fluid flowing in the duct, such as, carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOC) and smoke.
In addition to monitoring parameters that effect air or fluid quality, ventilation and other fluid circulating systems commonly include sensors, for example pressure sensors, for monitoring the performance of the system. The pressure in a duct is typically monitored by a pressure sensing unit comprising a housing that is attachable to the exterior surface of a wall of the duct and includes a duct wall penetrating tube to communicate the fluid pressure from a point distal of the inside surface of the duct wall to a differential pressure transducer located in the housing. A differential pressure transducer typically comprises a transducer element, such as a diaphragm or a strain gauge, that is arranged to respond to a difference between the pressure applied at one input to the transducer element and the pressure applied at a second input and a measuring system to output a signal indicative of the pressure differential. For example, Crider, U.S. Pat. No. 6,122,972, discloses a pressure sensor comprising a dielectric material interposed between a first conductive surface and a dissimilarly shaped, second conductive surface that is isolated from the first conductive surface. The dielectric material is movable with respect to at least one of the conductive surfaces in response to a pressure difference at the inlet ports. A measurement system connected to at least one of the conductive surfaces measures the change in capacitance between the conductive surfaces as a result of movement of the dielectric material in response to a change in differential pressure. Duct mounted sensors may be arranged to sense the gauge pressure or the absolute pressure of the fluid in the duct or the pressure differential between the ends of a section of a duct.
Combining a plurality of sensors in a single enclosure can reduce the cost the sensing units required for a fluid circulating system, such as a ventilation system for a building. Moreover, if a plurality of sensors can be installed at a single insertion point in a duct, the cost of installing and maintaining the ventilation system and the likelihood of leakage can be reduced.
What is desired, therefore, is a sensing unit enabling installation of a plurality of sensors, including a pressure sensor, at single insertion point in a fluid circulation duct.


An apparatus for using fluid laden with nanoparticles for application in electronic cooling is described. In one embodiment, an electromagnetic pump is used to circulate the nanoparticle laden fluid.

One of the significant resistance sources in the liquid cooling of electronics (e.g., computer systems) is the resistance from the cold plate to the fluid. In general, the resistance is a function of flow rate through the cold plate as well as the thermal properties (i.e., conductivity) of the fluid being used and the geometry of the cold plate passages through which the liquid flows.
In one case, the late to fluid resistance may be reduced by increasing the fluid flow rated. However, this leads to increased power consumption, the need for larger a pump, and likely more noise and vibrations.
In the second case, the thermal conductivity of the fluid may be increased. One way to achieve increased thermal conductivity is to use liquid metal as the coolant. A liquid metal's higher thermal conductivity will tend to decrease the plate to fluid resistance. However for the same volumetric flow rates liquid metal has a higher heat exchanger fluid to air thermal resistance relative to water. This is due to the lower heat capacity of liquid metal as compared to water. Therefore, the reduction benefit in junction to ambient resistance will be limited. Furthermore, liquid metal is also considered relatively expensive within the industry of use.

Apparatus for using fluid laden with nanoparticles for application in electronic cooling


The present invention provides a process for preparing a fluorine-containing elastomer in a high productivity comparable to that of non-iodine transfer polymerization process by carrying out an iodine transfer polymerization at high pressure. The present invention also provides a fluorine-containing elastomer prepared by this process, and fluorine-containing molded articles. The process is a batch copolymerization process conducted under conditions that the reduced temperature of the critical constant is at least 0.95 and the reduced pressure of the critical constant is at least 0.80 wherein the reduced temperature and the reduced pressure are calculated using the Peng-Robinson formula from the critical temperature, the critical pressure and the composition ratio of each of the monomers in the gaseous phase in a reaction vessel,    in which ethylenically unsaturated compounds containing at least one fluoroolefine are copolymerized in the presence of a compound having the formula: Rf1.Ix wherein Rf1 is a saturated or unsaturated fluorohydrocarbon or chlorofluorohydrocarbon group having 1 to 16 carbon atoms, and x is the number of bonds of Rf1 and an integer of 1 to 4.

Since fluorine-containing elastomers, including vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene (VdF-HFP) elastomers and tetrafluoroethylene (TFE)-perfluorovinyl ether elastomers, have excellent chemical resistance, solvent resistance and heat resistance, they have widely been used in the fields of automobile, semiconductor, chemical or the like industries as O-rings, gaskets, hoses, stem sealing, shaft sealing, diaphragm, and so on, which are used in severe environment.
Fluorine-containing elastomers used in such applications include iodine and fluorine-containing elastomers having highly active iodine atoms at the molecular ends. The iodine atoms at the molecular ends enable the iodine and fluorine-containing elastomers to have a good crosslinking efficiency, and thus the elastomers have an excellent vulcanizability. Furthermore, since there is no need to add chemical substances containing a metal component, the elastomers have been widely used as peroxide vulcanization molded articles.
A peroxide vulcanization type (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 53-125491) is excellent in chemical resistance and steam resistance (hot water resistance), but is inferior in compression set to a polyol vulcanization type, and therefore it has not been suitable for use as sealing materials. This problem has been solved by introducing vulcanization sites into the elastomer main chain (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 62-12734). However, the vulcanization density increases to result in lowered elongation at break. Therefore, it has been very difficult to have both excellent compression set and excellent elongation at break.
Meanwhile, as a process for preparing fluorine-containing elastomers by high pressure polymerization are known a polymerization method wherein at least one monomer is in a supercritical state (c.f. pamphlet of WO 00/47641) and an emulsion polymerization method wherein the monomer concentration in polymer particles is at least a specific level (c.f. pamphlet of WO 01/34666). Although these patent publications describe that the polymerization can be carried out in the presence of Rf1.Ix as used in the present invention, they do not disclose any working example therefor and any effects disclosed in the present invention.
Iodine and fluorine-containing elastomers have been prepared by an emulsion polymerization such as a so-called iodine transfer polymerization method (see, for example, Japanese Examined Patent Publication No. 63-41928). According to the method, however, it is necessary to hold down the amount of a polymerization initiator, in order to get a high terminal iodine content (see, for example, Masayoshi Tatemoto, p 19, 86/6, Symposium on Micromolecules, Control of Polymer Structure in Radical Polymerization, The Society of Polymer Science, Japan, (1986)), and accordingly the productivity cannot be improved. In polymerization systems wherein the amount of a polymerization initiator is not limited, the polymerization rate can easily be increased by increasing the amount of the initiator, but in iodine transfer polymerization systems, the increase of the amount of initiator cannot be expected, because the initiator terminal content exerts a great influence on physical properties of end products.
Various proposals for improving the productivity have been made. For example, a process for improving the productivity by continuously carrying out emulsion polymerization is proposed (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication Nos. 3-33108 and 3-221510). According to this process, good tensile strength and compression set, which are properties of iodine and fluorine-containing elastomers, cannot be obtained.
Further, a polymerization at a high pressure of at least 1.7 MPa (gauge pressure, hereinafter the same) is proposed (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 5-222130), but the publication disclosed that a pressure range of 2.6 to 2.7 MPa is preferable and the pressure used in the Examples is within that range. Also, the polymerization time is more than 15 hours. Further, a microemulsion polymerization process is proposed (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 63-8406). The process, however, requires the use of a fluorine oil or the like to form a microemulsion at the initial stage. Since the fluorine oil and the like remain in the products obtained therefrom as contamination sources, it is necessary to remove the contamination sources by washing.
In order to stabilize a polymerization system or to increase the rate of polymerization, the amount of an emulsifier might be increased. However, the increase of the amount is undesirable from the economic and environmental points and in addition, it is also necessary to remove the emulsifier by washing since the emulsifier itself impairs curing.
In order to solve these problems, it is proposed to carry out iodine transfer polymerization in a two stage emulsion polymerization manner (see, for example, a pamphlet of WO 00/01741). The two stage emulsion polymerization is a process wherein a large number of polymer particles are synthesized using a relatively large amount of an emulsifier in the first stage, and the resulting emulsion is then diluted to lower the concentration of polymer particles and the concentration of the emulsifier, and the polymerization in the second stage is carried out using the diluted emulsion. This process enables to increase the rate of polymerization twice or more without big change of existing facilities for emulsion polymerization with giving a uniform particle size and keeping the original characteristics. However, the productivity is still inferior to that of polymerization processes using no iodine compound. Further, the elastomers obtained by this process have no improved properties as compared to those obtained by a conventional iodine transfer polymerization process, and still have a problem in the sealing properties as mentioned above.
As described above, there has not yet been provided a process which satisfies both the productivity for the preparation of iodine and fluorine-containing elastomers and the properties thereof.

Process for preparing vulcanizable fluorine-containing elastomer


A door frame of an elevator shaft closure has a chamber in which an elevator control arrangement is arranged. The elevator shaft closure separates an elevator shaft of a building from a story of the building. The elevator control arrangement includes an elevator control unit and at least one electronic power unit, which is connectible with an elevator motor.

EP 1 518 815 A1 discloses an elevator shaft closure of a building with a door frame fastened in the building and with movable doors. The elevator shaft closure separates an elevator shaft of the building from a story of the building, wherein an elevator control arrangement is located in a chamber of the door frame. The location of the elevator control arrangement within the door frame is made possible in that, inter alia, currently the elevator control arrangement can be of smaller construction and the power consumption as well as the resulting waste heat could be reduced and thereby, for example, space-depriving ventilating installations are not required. An elevator control arrangement can comprise, as disclosed in EP 1 518 815 A1, an elevator control unit and means for mounting and protection of the elevator control unit. The elevator control arrangement is therefore mountable in and demountable from an elevator installation as an entire component with few actions.
The elevator control unit substantially comprises subassemblies required for control and/or regulation of the elevator installation. In addition, such an elevator control unit can include interfaces and input modules necessary for servicing the elevator installation and for diagnosis and can comprise a power supply unit for voltage supply.
Door frame elements of elevator installations sometimes have very small cross-sections. In existing elevator installations the dimensions of these cross-sections are seldom more than 0.1 meters×0.15 meters.
In elevator installations the elevator motor thereof is often arranged in the elevator shaft itself. Also needed for operation of the elevator motor is an electronic power unit which is activated by control signals of the elevator control unit. The elevator motor arranged in the elevator shaft is connected with the power mains by way of the electronic power unit. In elevator installations of that kind the elevator control arrangement is usually located in a region of an elevator shaft closure. The electronic power unit is normally part of a frequency converter, which is usually arranged in the elevator shaft in the vicinity of the elevator motor. This is because electronic power units sometimes generate a considerable amount of waste heat. Moreover, electric and/or magnetic fields thereof or electric and/or magnetic waves sensitively disturb the elevator control unit. In addition, electromechanical relays which can produce a considerable amount of switching noise are arranged in the elevator shaft between the electronic power unit and power mains. The choke coils of the electronic power unit can also generate a considerable amount of operating noise and accordingly due also to this noise the electronic power unit is sometimes arranged in the elevator shaft. However, this location can require a high outlay on installation and material.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Elevator shaft closure door frame with control arrangement


A differential pressure control valve has a valve seat made of magnetic material, a valve body, and a guiding member fixed to the valve seat to guide the valve body. The valve body is located on the downstream side of the valve seat, and is seatable on the valve seat in accordance with the pressure difference between the upstream side and the downstream side to selectively open and close a valve hole. The valve body has a lid made of magnetic material and a guided member made of nonmagnetic material. The lid is seated on the valve seat to close the valve hole, and the guided member is guided by the guiding member. The valve seat or the lid has a permanent magnet, located outside the area where the valve body is seated on the valve seat, urging the valve body in the direction approaching the valve seat.

The present invention relates to a differential pressure control valve and a variable displacement compressor having same.
Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-55223 discloses four examples of conventional differential pressure control valves. These differential pressure control valves are arranged in a flow passage that allows fluids from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect to the differential pressure control valve. Each differential pressure control valve has a valve seat, a valve body, and a guiding member. A valve hole through which fluid passes is formed in the valve seat. The valve body is located on the downstream side of the valve seat, and separates from or is seated on the valve seat in accordance with the pressure difference between the upstream side and the downstream side to open or close the valve hole. The guiding member is fixed to the valve seat to guide the valve body. In these differential pressure control valves, one of the valve seat and the valve body is made of magnetic material, and the other is made of a permanent magnet.
In these differential pressure control valves, when the valve hole is closed, the valve body remains seated on the valve seat due to the magnetic sticking force acting between the permanent magnet and the magnetic material. When the valve hole is opened, the valve body is urged toward the valve seat due to a magnetic pulling force (magnetic attraction) acting between the permanent magnet and the magnetic material.
In a general differential pressure control valve, which urges the valve body toward the valve seat using only a spring, the urging force of the spring increases as the distance of the valve body from the valve seat increases. In contrast, in the differential pressure control valve disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-55223, the magnetic pulling force of the permanent magnet decreases as the distance between the valve body and the valve seat increases. Thus, compared to a general differential pressure control valve, the valve seat is easily separated from the valve seat when the valve hole is opened. Therefore, even when the pressures difference is small, the differential pressure control valve of the publication reliably opens the valve hole to reduce the pressure loss when fluid flows from the upstream side to the downstream side via the valve hole.
However, in each differential pressure control valve of Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-55223, the valve seat or the valve body is entirely made of a permanent magnet. Therefore, when the valve hole is closed, the permanent magnet collides with the magnetic material and is likely to be cracked.
In this respect, Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-55223 discloses three modifications of differential pressure control valves. In these differential pressure control valves, a valve seat or a valve body that has a permanent magnet coated with resin is used. Since the resin alleviates the impact of collision between the permanent magnet and the magnetic material when the valve hole is closed, the permanent magnet is prevented from being cracked. This improves the durability of the differential pressure control valves.
However, in the differential pressure control valves according to the modified embodiments of Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-55223, the resin exits between the permanent magnet and the magnetic material not only when the valve seat is seated on the valve seat, but also when the valve body is urged toward the valve seat. Since this hinders the flow of magnetic flux from the permanent magnet to the magnetic material, which reduces the magnetic flux density between the valve body and the valve seat. Accordingly, in these differential pressure control valves, the magnetic force acting between the valve body and the valve seat is relatively weak. This hinders the movement of the valve body toward the valve seat and prevents the valve body from being stably seated on the valve seat.
To solve the above problem, the permanent magnet may be, for example, increased in size without changing the type thereof. However, in this case, the permanent magnet is bulky and requires a relatively large space in the differential pressure control valve. This makes it difficult for the differential pressure control valve to be reduced in size. As a result, the variable displacement compressor having the differential pressure control valve is difficult to reduce in size.

Differential pressure control valve and variable displacement compressor having the differential pressure control valve


An electronic tablet case includes a body configured to receive an electronic tablet and one or more sets of finger loops on a rear surface of the body. The finger loops are configured to receive a user's individual fingers thereby allowing the user to hold the case and electronic tablet with one hand while operating the electronic tablet with the other hand. In one version, there are four sets of finger loops spaced (i.e., one set along each edge) about a perimeter of the rear of the body. The case may be fabricated of four layers of materials comprising: a waterproof outer layer, rigid protective layer, durable padded layer and non-scratch inner layer. A neoprene face perimeter layer connected to a body defines a sleeve for receiving a tablet Distinguishable portions of the case identify functional tablet buttons thereunder allowing a user to operate the tablet by pressing the distinguishable portions.

Electronic tablets, such as the iPad®, Nexus® and Kindle®, have become ubiquitous in our modern society. Such electronic tablets are costly and thus it makes sense to protect such devices. A simple Internet search turns up numerous cases designed to protect electronic tablets. Some cases are made of rigid materials while others are made of flexible and resilient materials.
It would be advantageous to develop a case for electronic tablets that allows the user to easily, naturally and securely handle and manipulate the position of the electronic tablet during use while the electronic table is in the case.


A cooling device for electric equipment includes a cooling unit for cooling inverter elements. Cooling unit includes a heat mass which has a surface provided with the inverter elements and a back surface arranged on a back side of surface to form a heat mass inner tank arranged between the surface and the back surface and transfers heat generated at the inverter elements, a fin portion which is provided on the back surface and radiates heat transferred through the heat mass, air-conditioner coolant pipelines which are provided on the surface and form a coolant passage through which a coolant for vehicle cabin air-conditioning flows, and a water pump which supplies and discharges coolant water to and from the heat mass inner tank. With such a configuration, a cooling device for electric equipment which is excellent in cooling efficiency is provided.

With regard to a conventional cooling device for electric equipment, for example, Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2007-69733 (PTD 1) discloses a heat-generating body cooling system utilizing a vehicle air-conditioning device for the purpose of efficiently cooling a heat-generating body such as a battery or the like and improving heating performance. In the heat-generating body cooling system disclosed in PTD 1, a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange with air-conditioning air and a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange with the heat-generating body are arranged in parallel on a coolant passage extending from an expansion valve to a compressor, so that the heat-generating body is cooled utilizing a coolant for an air-conditioning device.
Further, Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-90862 discloses a cooling system for efficiently cooling HV equipment utilizing a vapor compression refrigeration cycle (PTD 2). In the cooling system disclosed in PTD 2, heat-generating body cooling means for cooling a heat-generating body is provided on a bypass passage bypassing a decompressor, an evaporator, and a compressor in a refrigeration cycle for air-conditioning.
Further, Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2008-109131 discloses a cooling system which is thermally efficient, completely provided in a semiconductor module, avoiding problems of contamination and leakage of fluid, and enabling easy attachment/replacement of the module (PTD 3). In the cooling system disclosed in PTD 3, an electric power device is provided in a recess demarcated in a housing. Coolant fluid actively circulates into the housing, and a pin fin is coupled to the housing.
Further, Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2002-270748 discloses a semiconductor module and an electrode conversion device which exhibits high cooling performance and achieves a high reliability by resolving the possibility of insulation breakdown due to a thermal stress which occurs during manufacturing and operation (PTD 4). In the semiconductor module disclosed in PTD 4, a conductor member having a flow passage is joined to a base plate. A power semiconductor element is joined to the conductor member by soldering.

Cooling device that uses three fluids to cool electronics