An automatic deceleration control apparatus for a vehicle operates so as to secure appropriate tire grip performance, depending on the conditions of a road surface on which the vehicle runs turning, and restrain excessive rolling of the vehicle body, there by stabilizing the turning behavior of the vehicle at all times. While the vehicle is turning on a high-friction road surface without undergoing haw moment control, a safe vehicle speed is computed within the rollover limit of the vehicle. While the vehicle is turning on a low-friction road surface under haw moment control, on the other hand, a safe vehicle speed that ensures satisfactory tire grip performance is computed in accordance with an estimated road friction coefficient. When the vehicle is about to exceed its safe speed as it turns, it is automatically decelerated to the safe speed or below. Thus, the vehicle can be prevented from spinning, drifting out, or rolling over.

The present invention relates to a method and system for providing advice to an operator of a vehicle that the vehicle is being operated under conditions which may lead to vehicle rollover or, alternatively, to loss of control of the vehicle due to the manner in which the brakes of the vehicle have been applied. Desirably, the information is provided to the vehicle operator following the occurrence of vehicle operating conditions presenting an unacceptably increased risk so that the driver may be educated that these driving conditions have occurred and to avoid such conditions in the future.
Due to the differences in the center of gravity height and mass (load) of vehicles, the rollover threshold of commercial vehicles can vary significantly from load to load and vehicle to vehicle. Commercial vehicles typically include trucks as well tractors which are towing one or more semi-trailers. In the case of trucks, a load cargo area is carried by the truck itself. In the case of tractors with semi-trailers, a load cargo area is typically found in the trailers. In the case of truck tractors, a load cargo area is typically found both on the truck and in a towed trailer. Because trucks are constantly picking up and dropping off loads, the center of gravity of the vehicle and any trailers being towed thereby often varies from time to time. It is the vehicle operator""s responsibility to be aware that these variations exist and to adjust the vehicle""s speed appropriately, particularly when cornering or braking, so as to operate the vehicle safely. For purposes of explanation, the rollover threshold can be viewed. as operating conditions under which a vehicle would be expected to roll from a position which the vehicle wheels are traveling in contact with the ground toward a position where the vehicle is on its side or otherwise rolls over. In addition to vehicle load, a number of factors affect the rollover threshold, such as vehicle speed, braking conditions, the sharpness of any turn being undertaken, the slope of the road (e.g., crown and banking of curves), the stiffness of the vehicle and trailer suspension, as well as other factors.
The University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute has previously worked on a roll stability advisor system. This research work employed an instrumented fifth-wheel to estimate the trailer""s center of gravity height and a lateral accelerometer to determine the lateral acceleration of the vehicle. Estimate of the center of gravity height and lateral accelerometer measurements were used as inputs to dynamically assess the percent of rollover threshold at which the vehicle was being operated. The rollover status information was displayed continuously to the driver. Instrumenting a fifth-wheel tractor-trailer coupling device on a commercial vehicle is not practical, due to reliability and durability problems, and is relatively expensive.
Road User Research of Australia has previously developed and field-tested a road stability advisor system for tractor-tanker-trailer vehicles. The Road User Research system employed Apriori rollover threshold knowledge about these vehicles, along with a lateral accelerometer located at the center of gravity of the tank-trailer, to dynamically assess the rollover threshold. The Apriori rollover threshold knowledge employed in the Road User Research system was not understood to be updated as the load on the vehicle changed. That is, the Road User Research system is understood to assume the rollover threshold is the same whether the vehicle was loaded or empty. Indicator lights on the dash of the vehicle were illuminated to provide the vehicle operator with information about the percent of rollover threshold approached during vehicle operation when predetermined rollover thresholds were exceeded.
Although these and other rollover detection systems have previously been known, a need nevertheless exists for an improved system for evaluating rollover risks and advising vehicle operators of such risks. In addition, an improved system for advising vehicle operators of braking conditions which can lead to loss of control of the vehicle is also desirable.
The present invention is described throughout with reference to several embodiments. The invention is not limited to the specifically described embodiments. In addition, the invention encompasses features and method acts and steps which are novel and unobvious, both individually and in various combinations as set forth in the claims below.
In accordance with one aspect of an embodiment, the mass of the vehicle and any towed trailers is determined. For example, for a tractor-trailer combination in which two semi-trailers are being towed, the loaded vehicle and trailers may be weighed to determine the mass. As another alternative option, the load at the drive axles of the vehicle may be measured and supplemented by the measured load or by an assumption of the measured load to be carried by the other axles. Other mechanisms for actually measuring the mass of the vehicle may be used. Although relatively straightforward, measuring methods are not very practical or cost effective. This is particularly true in the case of tractor-trailer combination vehicles where any one of numerous trailers may be transported by the same tractor with the trailers having various configurations. Also, the mass is affected by numerous other factors such as how and the extent to which the vehicle and trailers have been loaded. Therefore, it is desirable to dynamically estimate the mass of the vehicle to account for these variables. In one specific approach, the vehicle mass may be estimated based on a summation of longitudinal forces acting on the vehicle and deriving the mass from an application of Newton""s Second Law under such conditions. In particular, the mass of the vehicle and towed trailers, if any, may be repetitively estimated at least at selected times when the vehicle is being driven to provide a dynamically varying estimate of the mass.
As another aspect of this particular embodiment, a rollover acceleration value is determined. The rollover acceleration value may comprise a critical rollover threshold estimate related to the lateral acceleration of the vehicle at which the vehicle has an unacceptably increased risk of rolling over. More specifically, the critical rollover threshold may be a value which approaches or is equal to the threshold at which the vehicle and towed trailers, if any, would be expected to roll over under the conditions at which the vehicle is being operated. In a specific approach described below, the rollover acceleration value is determined based on the mass or estimate of the mass of the vehicle and load. The rollover acceleration value may be assigned based upon a rule set. This rule set may be embodied in a lookup table which lists rollover acceleration values for a particular type or types of vehicle having a mass which corresponds to the estimated mass. Consequently, when the mass is determined or estimated, the table can be checked to find a rollover acceleration value for that particular mass. As the mass varies, the table may again be checked to determine the applicable rollover acceleration value for the new estimate of mass of the vehicle. Alternatively, the rule set may be embodied in one or more formulas and may be specifically tailored to given vehicles with given types of loads. Desirably, the rollover values may be assigned based upon an assumed manner in which the cargo area being transported by the vehicle is loaded.
As a further aspect of an embodiment, the lateral acceleration of the vehicle under driving conditions may be measured or otherwise determined. For example, an acceleration sensor may be used which is mounted to the circuit board of an automatically modulated braking system (ABS system) which is used to control the braking of at least selected wheels of the vehicle. Although desirable, it is not required that a sensor be located at this location and other mechanisms for determining the lateral acceleration of the vehicle may be used. Lateral acceleration measurements from a sensor may be processed to remove fixed and variable offsets introduced into the measurements by factors such as any tilting (off-horizontal) mounting of the sensor, arising from electronics, and/or due to variable factors such as the crown on the road on which the vehicle is being driven. The variable factors may be compensated for dynamically, depending upon the conditions under which the vehicle is being operated.
The resulting lateral acceleration determination in accordance with an embodiment is compared with the rollover acceleration value. The closer or nearer the lateral acceleration value approaches the rollover acceleration value, the riskier the driving conditions. That is, the risk of vehicle roll over is increased as the rollover acceleration value is approached. In comparing the rollover value to the lateral acceleration value, a ratio of these two values may be obtained. A rollover risk score may be determined from this ratio. For example, the rollover risk score may be the percentage of the rollover acceleration value achieved by the lateral acceleration value. One or more rollover acceleration value thresholds may be established. These thresholds may be set at predetermined or variable levels below the critical rollover acceleration value or estimate. Alternatively, if the rollover acceleration value is conservative (e.g., established at a level below which the vehicle would roll over), then the thresholds may be equal to or in excess of the rollover acceleration value. In the event the risk of rollover, as determined from the comparison, exceeds one or more of these thresholds, the rollover risk is indicated to the vehicle operator based on the comparison. As a result, the vehicle operator is alerted to the fact that the vehicle has been operated under increased rollover risk conditions. In many cases, vehicle operators, particularly inexperienced operators, do not recognize that these conditions have taken place. By alerting the vehicle operator of the existence of such conditions, the vehicle operator is provided with feedback so that, in the future, the operator will have learned to avoid these conditions.
Rather than distracting the driver with rollover warnings at the time the rollover conditions have taken place, the driver may be alerted to such conditions following the event. In other words, once the rollover risk thresholds are no longer being exceeded, the messages may be sent to the driver to indicate the extent (e.g., the highest threshold that was reached) to which a rollover risk was present during the just completed vehicle operation maneuver. By providing contemporaneous after the fact feedback to the driver, behavior modification (e.g., safer driving) is encouraged. The system provides an effective driver training tool as feedback to the driver is typically provided while the vehicle is still being driven by the driver.
In addition to indicating to the driver that a rollover risk has occurred, and desirably the level of risk, a recommendation may also be indicated to the driver of corrective action that could have been taken to reduce the risk. For example, a speed reduction recommendation may be provided to the vehicle operator. The recommended speed reduction may be varied depending upon the rollover risk level that was determined to exist. The rollover risk levels and corrective action recommendations may be communicated to the driver in any suitable manner, such as with visual or auditory signals or both. Indicator lights may be used, for example, with the lights that are illuminated providing information to the driver as to the level of risk that was determined, and also to indicate the corrective action recommendation, if such recommendations are being made. These messages may desirably be communicated to the driver using an alphanumeric message and display.
The corrective action recommendation may, for example, include a specific speed reduction recommendation. The reduction in speed that is recommended may vary with varied vehicle operating conditions. In addition, a first proposed reduction in vehicle speed recommendation may be made in the event the rollover risk fell into one of at least two categories and a second, different, recommended reduction in speed recommendation may be made to the driver if the rollover risk fell into a different risk category. The speed reduction recommendation is typically a higher recommended reduction in speed for higher risk categories.
In one specific embodiment, three categories of rollover risk are established ranging from highest to lowest risk. Operating conditions in the lowest risk category in this specific example result in no speed reduction recommendation. In contrast, a first speed reduction is recommended in the event the rollover risk falls into the second category and a greater speed reduction recommendation is made in the event the rollover risk falls within the highest category. In indicating the rollover risk to the vehicle operator, the risk levels may be distinguished visually as well as auditorally. For example, if the rollover risk is in the lowest category, the message may be steadily presented to the driver or flashed at a first low rate. In addition, an auditory signal may be provided to the vehicle operator, for example a short alert beep. In the event the rollover risk falls into the second category, the message may be flashed at a rate which is greater than the flashing rate for the low category. In addition, the auditory signal may be of a longer duration and/or be repetitive. In addition, if the highest risk category was determined, the message may be flashed at yet a higher rate. In addition, the auditory signal may be longer or otherwise more intense. One way of accomplishing flashing of a signal is to alternately present a message indicating the level of risk and a speed reduction recommendation with the rate of shifting from screen to screen being increased with higher risk.
To increase the training aspects of the system, the messages may continue until they have been acknowledged by the vehicle operator. For example, a keypad or other data entry device may be provided. The operator may be required to enter data (e.g., push a button or key) in order to terminate the message. In this manner, the driver is required to acknowledge that the driver has been made aware of the risky driving conditions. An icon on the message as well as on the button or data entry key may coincide visually to indicate to the driver which button is to be pressed to acknowledge the feedback.
As yet another aspect of an embodiment, the vehicle may have an automatically modulated braking system which in a conventional manner controls the braking of at least selected wheels of the vehicle. The control of braking at a wheel is modulated under certain wheel slip conditions as determined by the automatically modulated braking system (ABS system). Such systems, for example those which are commercially available from MERITOR-WABCO, typically produce wheel modulation or first signals indicating the modulation of the wheels. From these first signals a determination can be made whether one or more of the wheels are being modulated or having their braking function controlled by the ABS system. ABS braking systems also typically produce wheel speed signals. These wheel speed or second signals indicate the rate at which acceleration of the vehicle (including deceleration of the vehicle) is taking place. In accordance with this embodiment, the first signals may be evaluated to determine whether one or more wheels are being modulated by the automatically modulated braking system. If such modulation is taking place, this indicates a wheel modulation hard-braking event. In addition, the second signals may be evaluated to determine whether deceleration of the vehicle is occurring at too high of a rate. For example, the deceleration may be evaluated to determine whether it is in excess of a first or rapid deceleration rate. To avoid spurious signals, a requirement may be imposed that the rapid deceleration rate is exceeded for a first predetermined time period, which may be varied in duration. In the event deceleration at a rate which exceeds the first deceleration rate for the specified time period is determined, this condition may be considered to be a rapid deceleration hard-braking event. The braking conditions under which a rapid deceleration hard-braking event is indicated may be varied.
In one specific embodiment, a first level of hard-braking event may be indicated in the event a wheel modulation hard-braking event is detected without the detection of a rapid deceleration hard-braking event. In addition, a second level of hard-braking event may be indicated in the event a rapid deceleration hard-braking event is determined without the occurrence of a wheel modulation hard-braking event. Moreover, a third level of hard-braking event may be indicated in the event both the modulation wheel hard-braking event and rapid deceleration hard-braking events have occurred. The existence of hard-braking events indicates the possible operation of a vehicle during braking conditions may lead to a higher risk of lost vehicle control.
Desirably, the determination of the occurrence of first, second and third hard-braking event levels is accomplished after braking conditions have concluded which led to the determination of the particular hard-braking event level. For example, a hard-braking event may be deemed to have commenced when any of the hard-braking levels have been achieved and ended when all of the hard-braking event levels are no longer present. The highest level (first, second and third with third being the highest level) achieved during the hard-braking event may be indicated to the vehicle operator. This indication may be made shortly after the event conditions have ended to provide contemporaneous feedback to the driver. Although hard-braking events may be indicated to the driver at a time they are taking place, this is less desirable. That is, by delaying the indication of the hard-braking events, the driver is not distracted with warning or other messages at the time hard-braking is occurring. As in the case of rollover advisories, advice as to the levels of hard-braking events may be indicated in various ways, such as by alphanumeric messages. Auditory and visual messages, which may be varied depending upon the level of hard-braking event that was detected, may also be used. Furthermore, the vehicle operator may be required to acknowledge the receipt of the hard-braking event messages before a display or other indication of the messages is ended.
Under certain operating conditions, hard-braking events indicate proper operation of a vehicle. Desirably, a vehicle operator should not be warned of a hard-braking event under conditions where hard-braking events were appropriate. In accordance with one specific embodiment, the indication of hard-braking events may be blocked for braking events in which the lateral acceleration value exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, the indication of a hard-braking event may be blocked if the lowest rollover threshold is detected in the event the hard-braking event detector is being used with a rollover advisor. In other words, at higher levels of lateral acceleration, typically hard-braking events are appropriate. Alternatively, the hard-braking events may be displayed in all cases.
The various risk of rollover levels and hard-braking event levels may be assigned priorities and displayed accordingly. In addition, the levels of risk and of hard-braking events may be varied to more closely approach actual driving conditions. That is, vehicle operators may tend to ignore warning messages and the like if they do not correspond to actually occurring high rollover risk and unacceptable hard-braking event conditions.
The driver or vehicle dispatcher may want to know the number of hard-braking events and rollover risks that have taken place during a particular vehicle trip or which have taken place during a particular leg or segment of a vehicle trip. These rollover advisory events and hard-braking events, when they occur, may be stored in memory such as a vehicle log. This information may be recalled at appropriate or desirable times. In addition, the information may be sent via satellite or otherwise to a remote dispatcher or a remote location.
Regardless of how the rollover risk is determined, an aspect of one embodiment involves determining a reduction in the speed recommendation and communicating the vehicle speed reduction recommendation to the vehicle operator. The speed reduction recommendation may be varied with the evaluated risk of vehicle rollover. For example, a vehicle speed reduction recommendation of a first magnitude may be made in the event of a first rollover risk evaluation. In addition, the magnitude of the vehicle speed reduction recommendation may be of a second, higher amount, in the event the rollover risk is at a second, higher level. Also, as a further aspect of this embodiment, the recommendations for speed reduction are desirably made following the conclusion of driving conditions which led to the vehicle rollover risk. These recommended speed reductions may be made in miles per hour or kilometers per hour. The magnitude of the speed reduction for a given rollover risk may be varied. An alphanumeric display may be used for communicating the recommended reductions in speed and rollover risk levels to the vehicle operator.
The above aspects of embodiments may be implemented in a vehicle operator advising system or apparatus and as methods. Again, the embodiments are particularly useful in advising vehicle operators of vehicle driving conditions which create unacceptably high vehicle rollover risks and/or unacceptably high hard-braking events. Again, the present invention is not limited to embodiments with all of the above features and method acts, but is directed toward such features and acts which are novel and unobvious, both individually as well as to combinations and sub-combinations thereof.

Vehicle operator advisor system and method


A device and method for intravascular treatment of an embolism, and particularly a pulmonary embolism, is disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed toward a clot treatment device that includes a support member configured to extend through a delivery catheter and a plurality of clot engagement members positioned about the circumference of a distal portion of the support member. The individual clot engagement members can have a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion, and the first portions can have a proximal region attached to the support member. In the deployed state, the individual second portions can extend from the distal region of one of the first portions and project radially outwardly relative to the support member in a curve that has a proximally extending section which defines a proximally facing concave portion.

Thromboembolism occurs when a thrombus or blood clot trapped within a blood vessel breaks loose and travels through the blood stream to another location in the circulatory system, resulting in a clot or obstruction at the new location. As shown schematically in FIG. 1, when a clot C forms in the venous circulation V, it often travels to the lungs L via the heart H and lodges within a pulmonary blood vessel PV causing a pulmonary embolism PE. A pulmonary embolism PE can decrease blood flow through the lungs L, which in turn causes decreased oxygenation of the lungs L, heart H and rest of the body. Moreover, pulmonary embolisms can cause the right ventricle RV of the heart H to pump harder to provide sufficient blood to the pulmonary blood vessels PV, which can cause right ventricle RV dysfunction (dilation), and heart failure in more extreme cases.
Conventional approaches to treating thromboembolism and/or pulmonary embolism include clot reduction and/or removal. For example, anticoagulants can be introduced to the affected vessel to prevent additional clots from forming, and thrombolytics can be introduced to the vessel to at least partially disintegrate the clot. However, such agents typically take a prolonged period of time (e.g., hours, days, etc.) before the treatment is effective and in some instances can cause hemorrhaging. Transcatheter clot removal devices also exist, however, such devices are typically highly complex, prone to cause trauma to the vessel, hard to navigate to the pulmonary embolism site, and/or expensive to manufacture. Conventional approaches also include surgical techniques that involve opening the chest cavity and dissecting the pulmonary vessel. Such surgical procedures, however, come with increased cost, procedure time, risk of infection, higher morbidity, higher mortality, and recovery time. Accordingly, there is a need for devices and methods that address one or more of these deficiencies.

Methods and apparatus for treating pulmonary embolism


A first connector includes a joint bus bar mounted in a first housing, and wire-connected first female terminals inserted respectively in terminal receiving chambers to be connected respectively to tabs of the joint bus bar. A second connector includes wire-connected second female terminals inserted respectively in terminal receiving chambers in a second housing. When the first connector and the second connector are fitted together in such a manner that the second connector is inserted into a connector fitting portion, the wire-connected second female terminals of the second connector are connected respectively to tabs of the joint bus bar.

This invention relates to a joint connector structure for joining desired wires together by the use of connectors.
One known related joint connector structure is disclosed in the following Patent Literature 1. The joint connector structure of the undermentioned Patent Literature 1 comprises a first connector 2 having a plurality of wire-connected first female terminals 1, a second connector 4 having a plurality of wire-connected second female terminals 3, and a common connector 6 having a common terminal 5, and the first connector 2 and the second connector 4 are fitted into the common connector 6 respectively in opposite directions, so that the wire-connected first female terminals 1 and the wire-connected second female terminals 3 are connected together by the common terminal 5. Electrical connection between the wire-connected first female terminals 1, electrical connection between the wire-connected second female terminals 3, and electrical connection between the wire-connected first female terminals 1 and the wire-connected second female terminals 3 are made through the common terminal 5.
Patent Literature 1: JP-A-11-54229 (Page 3, FIGS. 1 to 2)
The structure of the above related technique comprises the three connectors, that is, the first connector 2, the second connector 4 and the common connector 6, and therefore the number of the steps of the production process, as well as the number of the component parts, is relatively large. And besides, in the joining operation, the fitting connection between the first connector 2 and the common connector 6 and the fitting connection between the second connector 4 and the common connector 6 need to be carried out.


A method for automatically translating a banner information, the method may include receiving by a computer the banner information, wherein the banner information is included in at least one banner and describes an identity of a software product; and translating by the computer the banner information into a unique software product identifier using a content of knowledgebase that comprises an attributes schema and translation rules; wherein each software product is associated with a single unique software product identifier; wherein the unique software product identifier comprises a structured set of attributes; wherein at least one translation rule is a pattern based translation rule; wherein the attributes schema specifies a set of allowable attributes and of allowable values of the attributes.

There is a tremendous variety in how software and hardware products are named and versioned across the IT industry. Even the same product might be named differently on different platforms, or be named differently by different IT inventory sources. For example "Microsoft Windows 2000 SP1 for 64-bit" and "Win2K Service Pack 1, x64" are actually names (banners) that refer to the same product and version. While that might be clear to humans (for example, to IT people), it is not obvious at all to machines (software applications) that are involved with processing that data. A standardized (normalized) representation of product names and versions is a key enabler for inventory management, compliance, and security automation. Some specific examples for that need are the following:
Product inventory management—when managing a product inventory for an organization, it should be possible to determine whether products reported by two different discovery tools are the same. If the names are not standardized, different names are not necessary an indication for different products. As a result the inventory might suffer from wrong duplication of products.
Compliance—Compliance might be involved with comparing the list of products and versions installed in an organization to an approved list of products and versions. The success of that comparison relies on standardization of product and version names.
Vulnerability Detection—it is possible to identify that a version of a product installed on a host is vulnerable by comparing its version to an inventory of vulnerabilities, in which the affected product and its version are indicated. To enable that, the indicated affected products and the information on products installed on the host should be represented in the same normalized way. This also applies for checking whether hosts in an organization are affected by a new published vulnerability (a threat alert). By the term host we relate to a computer or device (physical or virtual) on which software can be installed.
Malware Resilience Analysis—certain products are more prone to malware attack or propagation than others. Identifying the installation of these products within an organization is important for security management purposes. In order to successfully compare specifications of products associated with malware and the actual products installed on hosts at the organization, a normalized representation of product names is required.
The CPE (Common Platform Enumeration) [1, 2] is an open standard led by mitre.org for structured naming scheme of IT products. The Naming Specifications part of the standard defines the logical structure of the names. Product names according to CPE are broken into attributes, such as part, vendor, product, version, update, language, sw_edition, target_sw, and target_hw.
NIST (The US National Institute of Standards and Technology) maintains a dictionary (repository) of CPE names, covering the more common products and platforms [3].
While CPE could be a good choice for standardize the names and versions of IT products, it does not by its own resolve the above problems. Some of the issues and challenges are listed below:
The standard has not adopted yet by product, operating systems, and platform vendors. That means that the products installed on a host are named in a non-standardized format. Typically, operating systems or discovery tools will use two or three "banners" (free text strings) to describe the vendor, product (product title) and version of products installed on hosts, rather than using the CPE standard. There is no published method for automatically transforming that representation onto a CPE name.
There is no unique CPE dictionary (even not the official dictionary) that holds the name and version of all the products. In fact, when a vendor releases a new product, edition, version, or update, it does not have a process or commitment to assign to it or get for it a CPE name. That means that the content of a CPE dictionary is inherently partial. A version or edition of a product that an organization might have on its host might be missing in the CPE dictionaries.
The CPE standard supports multiple dictionaries. Each dictionary has to adopt the same CPE naming format, but can decide on the content of the names. So for example, one CPE dictionary might represent Windows 7 as "cpe:2.3:o: microsoft:windows:7:" (i.e. 7 is the version) while another dictionary might represent it as "cpe:2.3:o: microsoft:windows_7:-": (i.e. windows_7 is the product name, and the version field is empty). In principle, the inventory in the organization might be managed according one CPE dictionary (e.g., NIST) while a security service (such as a threat alerts service) might use a different dictionary for specifying the affected services of the new published vulnerabilities. That situation is an obstacle for a successful automation of vulnerability detection, for example.
ISO/IEC 19770-2 provides a standard for software identification (SWID) tags [6]. Software publishers (vendors) could use the standard to tag their software products, enabling by that the accurate identification of these products.
While SWID tags might contribute a lot to standardization, it does not solve the above problems by its own:
So far, only limited set of vendors adopted the standard. Therefore in many cases (if not the most) the discovery tools will not have SWID tags for the products they discover.
The set of attributes (tags) used by SWID is different than the set of attributes used by CPE. Currently there is no good mechanism for translating in between these standards. The gap between the standards might be reduced in the future but that might be a long process.
The methods described in this application provide a way for translating non-structured (or not enough structured) banners into a desired standard (normalized) format, and for converting names specified according to one standard into another.


Log-based hardware recovery. A checkpointed state of a system includes both architectural register values and memory. The checkpoint consists of a copy of the architectural register file values at the time the checkpoint is generated. An ordered log of non-deterministic events is maintained so that the responses can be repeated to simulate a complete checkpoint for error recovery purposes. When a processor detects an error, the processor reloads the state from the last checkpoint and repeats the non-deterministic events from the log.

Processors are becoming increasingly vulnerable to transient faults caused by alpha particle and cosmic ray strikes. These faults may lead to operational errors referred to as "soft" errors because these errors do not result in permanent malfunction of the processor. Strikes by cosmic ray particles, such as neutrons, are particularly critical because of the absence of practical protection for the processor. Transient faults currently account for over 90% of faults in processor-based devices.
As transistors shrink in size the individual transistors become less vulnerable to cosmic ray strikes. However, decreasing voltage levels that accompany decreasing transistor sizes and the corresponding increase in transistor count results in an exponential increase in overall processor susceptibility to cosmic ray strikes or other causes of soft errors. To compound the problem, achieving a selected failure rate for a multi-processor system requires an even lower failure rate for the individual processors. As a result of these trends, fault detection and recovery techniques, typically reserved for mission-critical applications, are becoming increasing applicable to other processor applications.
Several terms are commonly used when discussing processor errors and error recovery. A Failure in Time (FIT) refers to an error rate of one failure in one billion (109) hours. Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) is the time between failures caused by soft errors. MTBF requirements are typically expressed in years. For example, one FIT equals a MTBF of 114,155 years:
      114    ,    155    =                    10        9                    (                  24          *          365                )              .
Silent Data Corruption (SDC) occurs when errors are not detected and may result in corrupted data values that can persist until the processor is reset. The SDC Rate is the rate at which SDC events occur. Detected, unrecoverable errors (DUE) are errors that are detected, for example, by using parity checking, but cannot be corrected. The rate of these errors is referred to as the DUE rate.
For example, publicly available documents from IBM (D.C. Bossen, "CMOS Soft Errors and Server Design," IBM Server Group, Reliability Physics Tutorial Notes, Reliability Fundamentals, April 2002.), specify 25 years MTBF for DUE and 1000 years MTBF for SDC. These specifications are for single-processor systems. Application to a multi-processor system results in more stringent specifications for individual processors. It is becoming increasingly difficult to meet SDC and DUE FIT specifications because the neutron FIT contribution of latches is increasing. Other components, for example, most SRAM cells, either can be protected via interleaved parity or error correcting codes or do not provide significant contribution to the overall FIT rate.
The FIT rate of latches consists of two parts: the raw FIT rate and a derating factor. The raw FIT rate can be computed using circuit models and currently ranges between 0.001 and 0.01 per latch. The derating factor is the fraction of faults that lead to errors. Typically, the derating factor is 10%. See, for example, Eugene Normand, "Single Event Upset at Ground Level," IEEE Transactions on Nuclear Science, Vol. 43, No. 6, December 1996 and Y. Tosaka, et al., "Impact of Cosmic Ray Neutron Induced Soft Errors on Advanced Submicron CMOS Circuits," VLSI Symposium on VLSI Technology Digest of Technical Papers, 1996. Using the specifications set forth above as a further example, in a 64-processor system, each processor can have only approximately 1,800 latches. However, designing a complex, high-performance processor core with only 1,800 latches is extremely difficult.
Fault detection support can reduce a processor's SDC rate by halting computation before faults can propagate to permanent storage. Parity, for example, is a well-known fault detection mechanism that avoids silent data corruption for single-bit errors in memory structures. Unfortunately, adding parity to latches or logic in high-performance processors can adversely affect the cycle time and overall performance. Consequently, processor designers have resorted to redundant execution mechanisms to detect faults in processors.
Current redundant-execution systems commonly employ a technique known as "lockstepping" that detects processor faults by running identical copies of the same program on two identical lockstepped (cycle-synchronized) processors. In each cycle, both processors are fed identical inputs and a checker circuit compares the outputs. On an output mismatch, the checker flags an error and can initiate a recovery sequence. Lockstepping can reduce a processor's SDC FIT by detecting each fault that manifests at the checker. Unfortunately, lockstepping wastes processor resources that could otherwise be used to improve performance.

Hardware recovery in a multi-threaded architecture


The gate latching device of this invention is optionally a one piece design, although it could be constructed by interconnecting several individual components. An alley post channel blank is formed in such a manner that it has protruding slotted tabs for bolting the post bracket to the floor. This feature allows the alley post bracket to be a direct replacement of the conventional post design for updating existing applications. The formed bracket is also optionally formed from one piece of steel and is provided with appropriate mounting holes installed. The formed bracket is optionally free from protruding tabs that can cause injury to personnel and livestock. A latch security plate activates automatically when the gate is closed. As soon as the gate is closed it is secure. The latch security plate can be applied in other applications, including wall brackets, feeder brackets, back to back brackets and other similar applications.

The present invention relates to hinge and latch systems, and in particular to hinge and latch systems for livestock facilities.
In a typical livestock facility there are many swinging containment gates with latching devices attached to stationary posts, building walls or other stationary fixtures, which are components of containment pens or access ways, also known as alley ways, for facility personnel and livestock. Alley ways are used to move livestock from containment pens to other locations within the facility. The conventional design of a livestock gate latching device is mounted to a fixture and consists of several components that are welded together. Conventional gate latching devices may be interconnected to posts, gate ends, or brackets that may be attached to other stationary fixtures.
The conventional design of gate latching device components are individually manufactured and interconnected to a post, gate, or bracket by bolting, welding or other methods as a means to provide a secure gate latch. The conventional gate latching components have horizontal edges and corners which protrude outward from the vertical surfaces of the post, bracket, or other stationary fixture to which they are mounted. These protrusions have been found to cause personal injury to facility workers and lacerations or bruising to livestock.
Conventional gate latching devices use a security latch system which requires a formed angle security latch to be manually rotated away from the latch tabs before the gate can be inserted or removed from the latching device, and the formed angle security latch must be manually returned to its original position to prevent the gate from being opened by the livestock. If the formed angle security latch is not returned to its original position the gate could be easily opened again by livestock simply pushing up and out on the gate.

Safer hinge and latch system for livestock access


Example methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture (e.g., physical storage media) to implement contextual key management for data encryption are disclosed. Example apparatus disclosed herein to perform contextual encryption key management, which are also referred to herein as contextual key managers, include an example context discoverer to discover context information associated with a request to access first encrypted data. Such disclosed example apparatus also include an example contextual key mapper to identify a combination of context rules associated with a key that is to provide access to the first encrypted data, validate the context information associated with the request based on the combination of context rules associated with the key to determine whether the request to access the first encrypted data is valid, and obtain the key from a key management service when the request to access the first encrypted data is valid.

Data encryption is commonly used to protect data in modern computing environments. Data encryption techniques typically employ one or more keys to encrypt unencrypted data and later decrypt the encrypted data. Modern computing environments routinely implement or access key management services that create, store and serve the keys employed for data encryption and decryption.
The figures are not to scale. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawing(s) and accompanying written description to refer to the same or like parts, elements, etc.

Contextual key management for data encryption


The present invention resides in a turbo oil composition exhibiting enhanced antioxidancy and resistance to deposit formation, and to a method for achieving that result in turbo oils. The gas turbine lubricating oil of the present invention comprises a major proportion of synthetic polyol ester based base stock including diesters and polyol esters, preferably polyol ester based base stock and a minor proportion of an antioxidant/deposit control additive, specifically a sulfur-containing carboxylic acid (SCCA) derivative. Other conventional additives such as extreme pressure, pour point reduction, oxidative stability, anti-foaming, hydrolytic stability, improved viscosity index performance, anti-wear, and corrosion inhibitor additives and others may also be employed. The use of SCCA derivative produces a turbo oil exhibiting markedly superior oxidation stability and deposit control performance compared to that exhibited by turbo oil without the SCCA derivative.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to ester-based, in particular diester and polyol ester-based turbo oils, which exhibit superior antioxidancy and reduced deposit forming tendencies. More particularly, it is related to turbo oils comprising esters of pentaerythritol with fatty acids as base stock, and a sulfur-containing carboxylic acid derivative, used as a dual functional additive providing enhanced oxidation stability and reduced deposit formation.
2. Description of the Related Art
Organic compositions such as mineral oils and lubricating compositions are subject to deterioration by oxidation and in particular are subject to such deterioration at high temperatures in the presence of air. This deterioration often leads to buildup of insoluble deposits which can foul engine parts, deteriorate performance, and increase maintenance. This is particularly the case for lubricating oils used in jet aircraft where wide temperature ranges and extreme operating conditions are likely to be encountered. Proper lubricating of aircraft gas turbines, for example, requires ability to function at bulk oil temperatures as low as -65.degree. F. to as high as 450.degree.-500.degree. F.
Most lubricants contain additives to inhibit their oxidation. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,773,665 discloses a lubricant composition containing an antioxidant additive mixture of dioctyl diphenylamine and a substituted naphthylamine. U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,759,996; 3,573,206; 3,492,233, and 3,509,214 disclose various methods of oxidatively coupling alkylated diphenylamines with substituted naphthylamines.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,820,430 discloses the lubricant composition containing a copper salt of a propionic acid derivative or an additive prepared by reacting a suitable thiodipropionic acid derivative with a suitable alcohol or amine-containing compound to impart multifunctional and antioxidant characteristics.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,189,388 discloses synthetic lubricating oil composition having improved oxidation stability comprising pentaerythritol ester base oil and containing a phenyl-naphthylamine, a dialkyldiphenyl amine, a polyhydroxy anthraquinone, a phosphate ester and a thioacid derivative. The thioacid derivatives mentioned are thio diester or diamide such as dilaurylthiodipropionate and N,N'-di(.beta.-undecyl)thiodipropionamide.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,157,971 is directed to a similar lubricating oil composition as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,189,388 except for the thioacid derivative being replaced by an alkyl thioacid ester. Examples of the alkylthioacid ester include 2-butylthio-isooctyl glycolate, 3-butylthio-isohexyl propionate.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,174,284 discloses liquid hydrocarbon-containing organic composition exhibiting improved anti-oxidation properties in the presence of a hydrocarbylpolythiobenzoic acid. The number of sulfur atoms in a polythio linkage ranges from 2 to 8, and the examples of such compounds cited include 2-n-hexyl-dithiobenzoic acid and 2-n-dodecyltetrathio-4-cyclohexylbenzoic acid.
JP 63,210,194-A discloses thermally and oxidatively stable lube useful as compressor oil, turbo-charger oil, etc. that contains thiodipropionate ester obtained from thiodipropionic acid and tertiary alcohol.
EP 227,948-A discloses a polyolefin stabilizing composition containing a tris-alkyl-phenyl phosphite (I) and a dialkyl-thio-dipropionate (II). II synergistically enhances the stabilizing effectiveness of I to improve the melt-processing and color stability of the polyolefin.
It has now been discovered that the anti-deposition and antioxidant properties of the polyol ester-based turbo oils can be greatly enhanced by the addition of a small amount of a sulfur containing additive, specifically sulfur-containing carboxylic acid derivatives such as thiosalicylic acid (TSA) or thioethers such as thiodipropionic acid (TDPA).

Sulfur-containing carboxylic acid derivatives to reduce deposit forming tendencies and improve antioxidancy of aviation turbine oils


An improved printer paper stack-handling device is described. In its preferred embodiment, the stack-handling device includes a pivot member with a downwardly inclining paper top-of-stack contact surface. The device also includes a force mechanism, e.g. a leaf spring, to pivot the member into contact with the top sheet of a paper stack. The spring and the pivot member's inclined contact surface produce a variable top sheet bias for corresponding variable paper stack heights, to properly laterally align the top sheet against a fixed, opposing guide rail, for feeding to a printer input port.

Printers operate by printing on a piece of paper. Historically, a continuous length of paper, folded fan-style, was pin-fed to a printer by use of holes along the edge of the length of paper. The pages within such fan-style paper were defined by perforations. Use of such continuous length paper increased efficiency over prior art printers which required each page be hand fed to the printer. However, the finished printed product from continuous length paper printers required each page be separated along the perforations defining each page and along the perforations defining the holed side region used for pin-feeding to the printer. This labor-intensive task resulted in printed pages with rough, perforated edges.
More recently, printers were developed in which the single top sheet of a paper stack is fed to a printer. Such printers were an improvement over the prior art because the resulting printed page had no perforations along its edges. To maximize efficiency of single sheet printers, paper trays were developed continuously to feed single sheets from the top of the paper stack to a printer. Problems arise when two or more sheets are fed to a printer simultaneously from the paper tray. Multiple sheet intake leads to paper jams, paper slippage, and to various other problems related to the print operation. The resulting waste of paper is also of concern, particularly in view of the increasing costs of materials.
To alleviate such multiple sheet intake, stack feed sheet printers often employ mechanisms adjacent their input ports which separate sheets of paper as they are taken into the printer, as shown in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/954,541 entitled "Paper Pick-Up System for Printers", filed Sep. 29, 1992, and subject to common ownership herewith. The disclosure of that patent application is incorporated herein by this reference. For such separator mechanisms to function, the top sheet of a paper stack must be properly aligned for feeding into the printer's input port.
To facilitate paper alignment, an input tray having a guide rail perpendicular to the printer input port is employed. The paper stack is manually placed in the input tray with one edge of the paper stack placed against the guide rail. For proper alignment and corresponding proper separator mechanism function, the top sheet must be aligned against the guide rail prior to feed into the printer input port. To ensure proper alignment, an alignment device is used to exert a bias force on the stack properly to align the sheets therein against the guide rail for feeding to the printer. However, the bias force necessary properly to align the to-be-fed top sheet of a paper stack varies with paper stack height due to the impingement of the alignment device on multiple sheets of the stack at one time, with the stack height determining at least in part the mass of paper to be urged against the guide rail. As the paper stack height decreases, the bias force must also decrease to prevent buckling of the paper.
Conventionally, alignment devices have utilized multiple force mechanisms, e.g. multiple springs, to vary the bias force as the paper stack height decreases. In one prior art embodiment, two leaf spring force mechanisms are employed. The first, larger leaf spring steers the whole paper stack toward a guide rail. The first spring is positioned opposing the guide rail across the planar expanse of the paper stack. The second, smaller leaf spring is positioned adjacent and vertically above the first spring. The second spring contacts the top sheet of the paper stack to produce a constant bias force on the top sheet against the guide rail.
In the prior art embodiment, both springs are fixedly mounted on the printer. A paper stack is placed on a paper tray that continually rises as the paper stack height decreases. Thus, each sheet in the stack is positioned adjacent the second spring when that particular sheet is the top sheet in the stack.
Problems arise when the paper tray does not raise the top sheet to a position adjacent the second leaf spring, rendering the second spring ineffective, or when paper becomes wedged between the separate first and second springs. In addition, the two springs are not mounted on the paper support, requiring a paper support adjustment and a spring adjustment for varying paper stack widths for feed to a printer. Finally, use of two force mechanisms results in more cost than use of one force mechanism because more assembly time, materials, maintenance and design are required for the two force system.


A system and method to optimize a circuit layout, and more particularly, to a system and method of post layout data preparation to optimize a circuit layout and reduce random and systematic wire and via opens and shorts. The method includes stripping existing vias in a design layout and determining design parameters of the design layout including wiring placement and dimensions. The method further includes optimizing via layout by placing vias away from edges of the wiring and adjacent vias. The invention is also directed to a design structure on which a circuit resides.

Integrated circuits can contain several million transistors on a single integrated circuit substrate. In order to interconnect these transistors to form a working device, as many as ten or more layers of conductive material may be formed overlying the substrate and the transistors to functionally interconnect the transistors. This interconnection or coupling is accomplished by the use of contacts or via structures.
Vias are typically openings etched through dielectric layers between the conductive layers. In modern semiconductor chip technology, vias are physically very small, the area of a via being limited to the area defined by the conjunction of signal wiring shapes on the corresponding layers. For example, due to the fine lithographic features that can be manufactured, many vias have dimensions of less than one micron. For example, 0.1 micron wide wires can have a via of 0.1 micron wide by 0.1 micron wide. In practice, the via might even be smaller to allow for misregistration of the via on the wires, or to allow for other process tolerances. However, the extremely small size of the vias increases the probability, given normal process defect densities and tolerances, of defects and hence degraded device performance and yield.
As electronic circuit densities increase and technology advances, for example, in deep sub-micron circuits, there is a need to maximize the utilization of the design layout and manufacturability and reliability of the circuit. This can be accomplished, for example, by adding redundant vias and the like. Thus, some design systems or graphics technicians will, after normal wiring is complete, add redundant vias, where possible, to enhance yield. However, these added vias, in many instances, can be located very close to one another or near edges of the wires, resulting in or increasing the probability of via to adjacent via or wire shorting. Also, it is known that densely packed vias suffer from processing problems such as over etching of the underlying dielectric layer, to name but one problem.
Accordingly, there exists a need in the art to overcome the deficiencies and limitations described hereinabove.

System and method of automated wire and via layout optimization description

International Business Machines Corporation


In a chassis connection apparatus and a chassis formed by using it, a front operation block fixed to a housing by means of a claw-shaped lock mechanism is connected to a chassis frame with a main circuit installed thereon at the back of the front operation block. The chassis can be taken out of the housing by merely pulling the chassis frame backward and releasing a claw-shaped lock. In the construction described above, an engagement section is disposed in a section where the chassis connection apparatus is connected to the chassis frame, so that the chassis frame can be connected at a later time.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a chassis connection apparatus in a television receiver or the like, which can be used when a chassis must be taken out of a housing during manufacturing/assembly and maintenance on the market.
2. Description of the Related Art
In recent years, the chassis structure of a television receiver has been usually divided into a front operation block in which operation sections for adjusting the volume of sound and selecting a channel are collected and a chassis frame on which a main circuit is mounted.
For this reason, in a manufacturing/assembling process, the front operation block is connected to a chassis frame by using a harness with a lead wire in terms of the circuit. As to the construction of the block and frame, they are connected to each other and made into one piece by using a chassis connection apparatus. To reduce the number of manufacturing/ assembling process steps, the front operation block, the chassis connection apparatus and the chassis frame are collectively installed in the housing. The front operation block is fixed to the housing by screws so that it will not move downward due to an external force which is applied thereto during front side of the receiver operations.
The construction of a conventional chassis connection apparatus will now be explained with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.
In FIG. 4, reference numeral 1 denotes a chassis connection apparatus; reference numeral 2 denotes an engagement claw section for connecting a front operation block 5 to the chassis connection apparatus 1 by engaging the claw section 2 with a mounting engagement hole section 5a disposed on the front operation block 5; reference numeral 3 denotes an engagement shaft for connecting a chassis frame 6 to the chassis connection apparatus 1 by engaging the engagement shaft 3 with a mounting engagement section 6a disposed on the chassis frame 6; and reference numeral 4 denotes a guide section for engagement with a housing 7.
In FIG. 5, reference numeral 7 denotes a housing of a television receiver; reference numeral 7a denotes a boss, disposed on the housing 7, for mounting the front operation block 5; reference numeral 8 denotes an operation tray mounted on the front operation block 5; reference numeral 9 denotes an AV terminal mounted on the front operation block 5; and reference numerals 10 denote screws for mounting the front operation block 5.
The operation of the chassis connection apparatus, together with the chassis constructed by using it, constructed as described above will now be explained with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.
The chassis connection apparatus 1 connects the front operation block 5 to the chassis frame 6 with a main circuit installed thereon by a method in which the engagement claw section 2 is engaged with the mounting engagement claw section 5a disposed on the front operation block 5, and in which the engagement shaft 3 is engaged with the mounting engagement hole 6a disposed on the chassis frame 6. The chassis connected as described above is fixed to the housing 7 by screws 10 so that it will not move downward due to an external force which is applied thereto during operations of the front operation block 5.
However, in the chassis connected as described above and the chassis connection apparatus which forms it, there is a problem in that the number of assembly steps at a factory is increased, i.e., the front operation block must be fixed by screws for preventing the front operation block from moving downward due to an external force applied thereto during the operations of the front operation block, and the front operation block must be removed when the chassis has to be taken out of the housing during maintenance or the like. There is another problem in that, since the front operation block and the chassis connection apparatus, and the chassis to which the chassis frame is connected, collectively, must be incorporated into the housing during assembling at a factory, it is difficult to handle the chassis when the chassis is encased in the housing.

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.


A conduit coating which is made by covering a surface thereof with a polymeric material which may include an additive made of bacteriostatic, bacteriocidal, fungicidal, fungistatic or mildew-suppressing material. The coating material may be cross-linked using radiation exposure to improve the high temperature characteristics of the conduit.

Typically polymeric-lined conduits such as tubes, pipes and innerducts are manufactured by extruding a thermoplastic polymer through a suitable die. These conduits are used in a diversity of applications, including as water or other fluid conduits, as protective sheaths for telecommunications cabling or other types of cable including electrical wiring, as sanitary sewer piping, and as household and industrial runoff tubing. In virtually every use, and especially in the transportation of consumable products such as potable water or medical supplies, there is a concern that bacteria, fungus or mildew may colonize the conduit interior and pose a threat to the purity of the transported species. In addition, there is a concern that such colonization may pose a threat to the integrity of the cable itself due to the production of products which may degrade the cable, or to workers who may be required to access the cable and thus become exposed to the colonizing species. Although bacteriocidal, fungicidal and mildew-resisting agents that may be generally added to polymers, and bacteriostatic polymers are available, they have not been adapted for use to line the interior or overcoat the exterior of polymeric conduit to eliminate the problems posed by such impurities to the material transported by the conduit, to the persons who handle the conduit, or to the conduit itself.
Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to provide a material and method of coating polymeric conduit with a material which exhibits bacteriostatic, bacteriocidal, fungicidal and mildew suppressing properties to reduce the potential for colonization of such species on the conduit.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide polymeric conduit having an interior and/or exterior surface with bacteriostatic, bacteriocidal, fungicidal and mildew suppressing properties to inhibit the growth of such species in the material occupying the conduit.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a coating for polymeric conduit which will release bacteriostatic, bacteriocidal, fungicidal, and mildew-suppressing agents into the material occupying the conduit.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a polymeric coating for polymeric conduit which may be compounded with materials known for their bacteriostatic, bactericidal, fungicidal and mildew suppressing properties.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a polymeric coating for polymeric conduit which may be compounded with thermoplastic or thermoset polymeric materials and conventional commercial paint compounds cured using conventional chemical reactions.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a polymeric coating for polymeric conduit which may be compounded with polymers which may be chemically cross-linked to each other to improve the high temperature characteristics of the conduit.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a polymeric coating for polymeric conduit which may be compounded with polymers which may be chemically cross-linked to each other using all forms of radiation including gamma radiation, ultraviolet radiation and x-ray radiation.
It is another object of this invention to provide a method of lining an innerduct or conduit which may easily be altered to provide a lining property variability along an innerduct or conduit length. It is a further object of the present invention to combine antimicrobial materials with polymeric material for use in all applications which require or desire leaching of the antimicrobial material from the conduit surface to be minimized to below levels which will result in toxicity to humans.

Bacteriostatic coating of polymeric conduit


Each of lines A, B is provided on each of opposite sides thereof with a tape heater 11, and a space for positioning a tape heater holding clip 13 therein is provided in each of locations between adjacent fluid control devices. The tape heaters 11 are held from opposite sides thereof to the line by the clip 13. The lines A, B provided with the heaters are each mounted on a line support member 10 removably attached to a base member 1. The line support member 10 has a heater insertion bore 14 formed therein and extending longitudinally thereof. A sheath heater 12 is inserted into the bore 14.

Fluid control apparatus for use in semiconductor fabrication equipment are made integrated by connecting a mass flow controller and shut-off valves without using tubes. Such apparatus are known which comprise a plurality of lines arranged in parallel on a base plate and having their inlets, as well as their outlets, oriented in the same direction, each of the lines comprising a plurality of fluid control devices arranged in an upper stage and a plurality of block coupling members arranged in a lower stage, the coupling members being removably attached to the base plate, the fluid control devices being removably mounted on the coupling members. The fluid control apparatus of the type described requires one or more lines equipped with a heating device depending on the use of the apparatus.
The conventional fluid control apparatus of the type described has the problem that it takes much time to assemble the components including the heating device. Another problem encountered is that since full consideration is not given to the additional provision of lines or modification of lines, there arises a need to remove all members as mounted on the base plate for replacement by a base plate having required members mounted thereon when the system is to be rebuilt, consequently entailing a prolonged period of shutdown and an increased number of construction steps in situ.
An object of the present invention is to provide a fluid control apparatus which is easy to assemble and highly amenable to the addition or modification of lines although having a heating device.


The invention relates to a system having a scanner and a memory layer. The memory layer comprises particles for storing X-ray information items, that can be excited by a stimulating radiation to emit an emission radiation corresponding to one of the X-ray information items and that are embedded in a medium and are distributed over the entire thickness of the memory layer. The scanner comprises an irradiating device for irradiating a linear region on the memory layer and a detector for the positionally resolved detection of emission radiation emitted by the memory layer along the linear region. To increase the sharpness of the X-ray information items to be detected with low losses in the intensity of the emission radiation, the medium can at least partially absorb components, directed both perpendicularly and parallel to the plane of the memory layer, of the emission radiation emitted by the individual particles.

Systems or memory layers of the generic type are used, in particular, for medical purposes, in the computer radiography (CR) sector. In them, X-ray images are recorded in a phosphor layer by storing the X-ray radiation passing through an object, for example a patient, as a latent image in the phosphor layer. To read out the stored image, the phosphor layer is irradiated with stimulating light, as a result of which the latter emits, in accordance with the latent image, emission light that is detected by an optical detector and is converted into electrical signals. If required, the electrical signals can be processed further and displayed on a monitor or be outputted on a suitable output appliance, such as, for example, a printer.
In the prior art, systems are known in which the X-ray information items stored in a memory layer are read out with a line scanner. The line scanner comprises an irradiating device for irradiating a linear region of the memory layer with stimulating radiation and a line-shaped detector for positionally resolved detection of the emission radiation excited in the linear region of the memory layer. The memory layer has a multiplicity of individual phosphor particles in which the X-ray information items are stored. The phosphor particles are present in the form of a powder and are embedded in a medium, in particular a plastic. Memory layers of this type are therefore also described as powder image plates (PIPs). As a result of this composition and structure, the stimulating radiation incident on a memory layer is scattered in the memory layer so that not only the primarily to be excited linear region, but also adjacent regions of the layer are excited to emit emission light. The linear region to be read out cannot be sharply limited, which results in a reduction in the sharpness of the image information to be detected.
To reduce this loss of sharpness, memory layers that contain a blue dye were proposed in the prior art. The blue dye partially absorbs the stimulating radiation, which is generally in the red spectral range, in the memory layer and therefore shortens the mean path length that the stimulating radiation traverses in the memory layer. In this way, the linear region to be excited can be better limited on the memory layer thereby increasing the sharpness of the image information items to be read out. However, the absorption of the stimulating radiation simultaneously prevents a deep penetration of the stimulating radiation into the memory layer with the result that only upper sublayers of the memory layer can be excited to emit emission light. Owing to this reduced reading-out depth, the intensity of the emission radiation emitted is reduced, which results in increased signal-to-noise. Despite improved image sharpness, this does not altogether significantly improve the image information.
In addition, the blue dye in the memory layer results only in an increase in the sharpness perpendicular to the extension of the excited linear region on the memory layer. Since the total linear region is irradiated with stimulating radiation, on the other hand, no increase in sharpness is possible in the direction of said region.

System comprising a scanner and a memory layer, and a memory layer for storing X-ray information items


A steerable catheter includes a body portion, a flexible catheter body with a proximal end and a distal tip and a continuous steering wire passing through the flexible body from the proximal end to the distal tip and turning back through the flexible body from the distal tip to the proximal end.

A catheter is a medical device that can be inserted into a body cavity, duct, or through a surgical opening. Catheters provide drainage, administration of fluids or gases, or access by surgical instruments. Steerable catheters allow for controlled deflection of the catheter. Steerable catheters provide a medical practitioner with increased control during insertion of the catheter and while administering medical treatment. Steerable catheters can be actuated in a number of ways, including using multiple steering wires. The multiple steering wires and their control devices can add a significant amount of cost, size, and complexity to the catheter system.
Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements.

Continuous single wire steerable catheter


Disclosed is a dye-sensitized solar cell comprising a gel electrolyte that contains a gelling agent and an electrolyte, wherein the gelling agent contains at least one kind of a polymer selected from the group consisting of a first polymer in which polysulfonic acid is crosslinked by a metal ion having a valency of not less than two, a second polymer in which polycarboxylic acid is crosslinked by a metal ion having a valency of not less than two, a third polymer in which a quaternary ammonium salt of polysulfonic acid is crosslinked by a metal ion having a valency of not less than two and a fourth polymer in which a quaternary ammonium salt of polycarboxylic acid is crosslinked by a metal ion having a valency of not less than two.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a raw material kit for an electrolytic composition, an electrolytic composition obtained from the raw material kit for an electrolytic composition, and a dye-sensitized solar cell using the electrolytic composition.
2. Description of the Related Art
The general construction of a dye-sensitized solar cell is described in, for example, Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 1-220380. As described in the prior art quoted above, the solar cell comprises an oxide electrode including a transparent semiconductor layer containing fine particles of a metal oxide and a dye supported on the surface of the transparent semiconductor layer, a transparent electrode arranged to face the oxide electrode, and a liquid carrier movement layer interposed between the two electrodes noted above. The solar cell of the particular construction is called a wet type dye-sensitized solar cell because the carrier movement layer is a liquid.
The dye-sensitized solar cell outlined above is operated as follows. Specifically, the light incident on the transparent electrode runs to reach the dye supported on the surface of the transparent semiconductor layer so as to excite the dye. The excited dye promptly delivers electrons to the transparent semiconductor layer. On the other hand, the dye that is charged positive because of the loss of the electrons receives electrons from ions in the carrier movement layer, thereby the dye is electrically neutralized. The ions that have delivered the electrons are diffused into the transparent electrode, thereby the ion received the electrons. The oxide electrode and the transparent electrode perform the functions of the negative electrode and the positive electrode, respectively, so as to allow the wet type dye-sensitized solar cell to perform its function.
A solvent having a low molecular weight is used in the wet type dye-sensitized solar cell. In order to prevent the leakage of the liquid, it is necessary to shield strictly the wet type dye-sensitized solar cell. However, it is difficult to maintain the shielded state for many years, with the result that it is worried about that the cell performance may be deteriorated and an adverse effect may be given to the environment by the loss of the solvent caused by evaporation of the solvent and by leakage of the solvent. Under the circumstances, it is proposed to use a solid electrolyte layer having an ionic conductivity or an electron conductivity, which does not contain a solvent, in place of the liquid carrier movement layer. A solar cell of this type is called an all solid dye-sensitized solar cell.
The problem of the liquid leakage need not be worried about in the solid dye-sensitized solar cell. However, a new problem is generated in the solid dye-sensitized solar cell. Specifically, the semiconductor electrode such as the oxide electrode and the solid electrolyte layer differ from each other in the thermal expansion coefficient, with the result that the solid electrolyte layer tends to be peeled off from the semiconductor electrode during the heat cycle. It follows that the energy conversion efficiency is deteriorated.

Raw material kit for electrolytic composition, electrolytic composition, and dye-sensitized solar cell


A folding front sight for a firearm is disclosed. The folding front sight includes a base with a forward end and a rearward end. A forward sight frame at the forward end of the base is included. The forward sight frame includes a front sight post at an upper end thereof, and is movable between an upright deployed position and a stowed position. A support member has a rear end extending from the rearward end of the base and a forward end engaged with the upper end of the forward sight frame to support the forward sight frame, when the forward sight frame is in the deployed position. The base, the forward sight frame and the support member cooperate to define a triangular silhouette when the forward sight frame is in the deployed position.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to firearms and more specifically to a collapsible front sight for rifles and carbines.
2. Background of the Related Art
Referring now to FIG. 1, for 40 years, the current standard front sight 10 attached to a barrel 12 of the AR-15, M4, and M-16 family of weapons includes a triangle-shaped profile, which is readily identifiable throughout the world. This well thought out and combat proven design includes a rear angled support 14 for greater strength, which gives the front sight 10 its distinct triangle silhouette. The angled support feature also helps deflects branches, wires, and other combat hazards that could get a weapon hung up at the worst of times.
However, when enhanced optical sighting systems, such as scopes, are used, the infantryman does not need the front sight and often finds it to interfere with his aiming. Consequently, infantrymen use front sights that fold or collapse or they remove the front sight entirely from the weapon. However, using a prior art folding sight or removing the sight from the weapon necessarily changes the appearance of the weapon. In the case of special operations personnel, having a non-standard looking weapon can compromise the identity of the operative, which in turn can compromise operational security. Accordingly it would be desirable to have a folding front sight that more closely resembles a standard front sight in order to preserve the anonymity of the special operations operative.


An earring assembly is provided that is comfortable to wear even when sleeping and is easily manipulable when it is desired to change the decorative portion of the earring. The snap-fit back portion has a front tube portion into which an earring post is insertable, a notch in the tube positioned and dimensioned to frictionally engage a corresponding notch in the tube portion. A flat disc affixed to the back end of the tube retains the back end of the back portion against entering the earlobe hole. In another embodiment a post guide is provided for insertion into the earlobe hole preparatory to inserting the tube from the back of the earlobe forward, aiding the placement of the tube. In yet another embodiment an extension piece is provided for lengthening the portion of the back that resides within the earlobe hole in order to achieve a custom fit.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to ornamental jewelry, and, more particularly, to jewelry for pierced body parts, such as earrings.
2. Description of Related Art
Several types of fastening devices are known for attaching ornamental jewelry to pierced body parts, such as earrings for attachment to earlobes. Among these are conventional posts that typically are inserted from the front to the back of the earlobe and then are held in place by any of a variety of back pieces. In these types of fastener the back piece generally has a hole therethrough that is dimensioned to provide a friction fit between the back piece and the post. In addition, the post usually has a notch adjacent its back end that serves two purposes: (1) to provide the user with a perceptible indication that the post and back piece are sufficiently mated to keep the earring in place; and (2) to provide a slight barrier to the removal of the back piece once it has been pushed toward the front of the post past the notch.
Variations on the conventional earring attachment devices have been disclosed by Johnson (U.S. Pat. No. 4,195,492), Tucker (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,139,993 and 4,242,886), Fountoulakis (U.S. Pat. No. 4,501,050), Sardelli (U.S. Pat. No. 4,580,417), Burkett (U.S. Pat. No. 4,630,453), Seidman (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,901,409 and 4,928,367), Grier et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,771,613), Koland (U.S. Pat. No. 5,454,829), and Greenwald (U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,094).
Several problems still exist in the known devices for affixing ornamental jewelry such as earrings to a pierced body part. For example, none of the known devices is comfortable for wearing while sleeping. In addition, a certain amount of digital acuity is required for inserting the post and affixing the back thereto. Such acuity is lacking in some individuals, either owing to aging or to a physical infirmity.


The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods useful for the production of heterologous proteins in filamentous fungal cells.

Posttranslational modification of eukaryotic proteins, particularly therapeutic proteins such as immunoglobulins, is often necessary for proper protein folding and function. Because standard prokaryotic expression systems lack the proper machinery necessary for such modifications, alternative expression systems have to be used in production of these therapeutic proteins. Even where eukaryotic proteins do not have posttranslational modifications, prokaryotic expression systems often lack necessary chaperone proteins required for proper folding. Yeast and fungi are attractive options for expressing proteins as they can be easily grown at a large scale in simple media, which allows low production costs, and yeast and fungi have posttranslational machinery and chaperones that perform similar functions as found in mammalian cells. Moreover, tools are available to manipulate the relatively simple genetic makeup of yeast and fungal cells as well as more complex eukaryotic cells such as mammalian or insect cells (De Pourcq et al., Appl Microbiol Biotechnol, 87(5):1617-31). Despite these advantages, many therapeutic proteins are still being produced in mammalian cells, which produce therapeutic proteins with posttranslational modifications most resembling the native human proteins, whereas the posttranslational modifications naturally produced by yeast and fungi often differ from that found in mammalian cells.
To address this deficiency, new strains of yeast and fungi are being developed that produce posttranslational modifications that more closely resemble those found in native human proteins. Thus, there has been renewed interest in using yeast and fungal cells to express more complex proteins. However, due to the industry's focus on mammalian cell culture technology for such a long time, the fungal cell expression systems such as Trichoderma are not as well established as mammalian cell culture and therefore suffer from drawbacks when expressing mammalian proteins.
Thus, a need remains in the art for improved filamentous fungal cells, such as Trichoderma fungus cells, that can stably produce heterologous proteins, such as immunoglobulins, preferably at high levels of expression.

Protease deficient filamentous fungal cells and methods of use thereof


An air mattress includes a first inflatable compartment having a length and width, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The first compartment having a top, a bottom, and sides and is composed of at least two layers of vinyl, one layer of vinyl forming the top of the compartment and the second forming the bottom. A second inflatable compartment is disposed on the top of the first inflatable compartment and is secured to the first compartment along a portion of the first inflatable compartment. The second compartment extends generally the length and width of the top of the first compartment and is of a size, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The second compartment is composed of at least two layers of vinyl distinct from the two layers of vinyl forming the first compartment. The second compartment is inflatable to give the top of the air mattress a soft, pillow-like appearance and feel.

This invention relates generally to air mattresses and more particularly to a air mattress with an second inflatable layer on top to provide a "pillow top" appearance and feel to the mattress.
The standard air mattress also could be improved in appearance and feel. The single vinyl top sheet of these mattresses is rather typically plain and flat in appearance, even with a pattern embossed thereon. Conventional mattresses, on the other hand, traditionally have a tufted or quilted appearance which people find attractive.
Moreover, conventional mattresses often have a different feel to the user than that achieved with conventional air mattresses. Such mattresses could be more acceptable with a better feel.


An excimer laser system having a laser chamber containing elongated electrodes and an excimer laser gas and a high voltage pulse power supply having fine digital regulation for supplying high voltage electrical pulses to the electrodes. The high voltage pulse power supply includes a power supply and a magnetic switch circuit for compressing and amplifying the output of the power supply. The power supply includes a silicon controlled rectifier which provides a direct current output to an inverter which converts the output of the silicon controlled rectifier to high frequency alternating current which is in turn amplified by a step up transformer. An output stage diode rectifier in combination with an inductor converts this high frequency high voltage current back to direct current. A control board comprising electronic circuits controls the power supply to provide high voltage pulses at a frequency of at least 1000 Hz. A voltage feedback circuit detects the voltage output of the output stage rectifier and provides a voltage output signal to the control board and a current feedback circuit detects charging current flowing in the output stage diode rectifier and provides a charging current signal to the control board. A digital command control for providing command control to said control board. A preferred embodiment of the present invention achieves very precise regulation with the use of differential instrumentation amplifiers in the feedback circuits and by reducing the charging current near the end of the charging cycle of each pulse.

Electric discharge lasers such as excimer lasers require high voltage power supplies. A prior art typical simplified electric circuit for an excimer laser is shown in FIG. 1. The electric circuit includes a magnetic switch circuit and a power supply for the magnetic switch circuit. A block representing a 1 kV prior art power supply for the laser is shown at 2 in FIG. 1. A more detailed description of the prior art power supply is shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.
In the typical prior art laser system, the power supply 2 provides high voltage pulses of about 600 volts lasting about 0.2 milliseconds at frequencies such as 1000 Hz. The magnetic switch circuit shown in FIG. 1 compresses and amplifies these pulses to produce electrical discharges across the electrodes of the laser as shown at 4. These discharge pulses across the electrodes are typically about 20,000 volts with duration of about 20 ns. A typical KrF excimer laser with the proper gaseous medium between the electrodes, such as 0.1 percent fluorine, 1.0 percent krypton and about 99 percent neon, the laser produces ultraviolet laser pulses at a wavelength of about 248 nm and an energy-per-pulse of about 10 mJ.
For many applications of excimer lasers such as the light source for integrated circuit lithography, precise control of the laser pulse energy is very important. The laser pulse energy over the typical operating range of the laser is approximately proportional to the discharge voltage which in turn is approximately proportional to the power supply output voltage. Thus, the stability of the output pulse energy is dependent on the stability of the power supply voltage. A great variety of power supply devices are available to supply electric power at controlled currents and voltages to a wide variety of equipment.
Maintaining constant power supply output voltage when the laser is operating continuously at a specific repetition rate, such as 1000 Hz, is a challenge for laser suppliers. This task is made much more difficult when the laser is operated in a pulse mode. A typical pulse mode is one in which the laser is required to produce bursts of about 50 pulses at a rate of 1000 KHz during the bursts with the bursts being separated by a "dead time" of a fraction of a second to a few seconds. When operating in a continuous mode, the best prior art output voltage variation is in the range of about 0.6 percent (about 3 to 3.5 volts). When operating in the pulse mode, the variation during the first few pulses is about 2.5 percent (about 12 to 15 volts).
In a typical lithography excimer laser, a feedback control system measures the output laser pulse energy, determines the degree of deviation from a desired pulse energy, and then sends a signal to a controller to adjust the power supply voltage so that energy of subsequent pulses are closer to desired energy. In prior art systems, this feedback signal is an analog signal and it is subject to noise produced by the laser environment. This noise can result in erroneous power supply voltages being provided and can in turn result in increased variation in the output laser pulse energy.
At many self service gasoline stations, the pump shuts down when the quantity of gasoline purchased has been pumped. A well known technique used at these stations is to slow down the gasoline fill rate when the quantity pumped approaches to within a small quantity of the amount purchased.
What is needed is a better fast finely regulated power supply for equipment such as excimer lasers requiring a fast, precise pulse power source.

Excimer laser having power supply with fine digital regulation


A method for aligning an exposure mask, comprises: using a plurality of hologram masks, on which alignment marks are formed,; aligning position of the hologram masks toward an object, which is exposed and on which alignment marks are also formed, a plurality of times by using both alignment marks, wherein a first straight line connects a first area on the object to be exposed for a pattern exposure with the alignment mark for aligning with a holographic mask that is used in an exposure onto the first area and a second straight line connects the other area, adjacent to the first area, on the object to be exposed for a pattern exposure with the other alignment mark for aligning with a holographic mask that is used in an exposure onto the another area, and the first straight line and the second straight line are intersected each other.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to fine patterning using exposure technologies, such as holography. Specifically, the invention relates to a method for aligning an exposure mask and an object to be exposed, and a method for manufacturing a thin film device substrate using the method.
2. Related Art
In recent years, Total Internal Reflection (TIR) holographic exposure technology has been a focus of attention as a patterning process for semiconductor devices. This exposure technology includes recording a desired pattern onto a holographic mask by using a holographic exposure system, and exposing a photoresist for a circuit pattern by irradiating a reconstructing beam onto the holographic mask.
In the recording, a recording laser beam is irradiated onto a mask pattern (former reticle) that corresponds to a pattern for a semiconductor device, producing a diffracted beam to be radiated onto a recording surface of a holographic mask. Meanwhile, a reference beam is irradiated onto the recording surface of the holographic mask from the opposite side of the holographic mask at a predetermined angle so as to interfere with the diffracted beam emitted from the original reticle. In this way, an interference pattern is produced and then recorded on the recording surface of the holographic mask.
In the exposing, an exposing beam, which is a reconstructing beam, is irradiated, from the opposite direction to that in the recording, onto the holographic mask that is placed on the same position as in the case of the original reticle so as to expose a photoresist together with a diffracted beam that reconstructs the original pattern on the photoresist. Generally, in the exposing, a substrate and a holographic mask are positioned appropriately by overlapping the alignment marks formed on the substrate, which is an object to be exposed, and the alignment marks formed on the holographic mask.
In the case where a patterning is done using a plurality of holographic masks, the alignment of a substrate and the holographic masks is generally done using a substrate on which alignment marks are respectively formed on the positions that correspond to each set of alignment marks formed on each of the plural holographic masks, as described in a document of related art, Symposium of Image Display (SID)03 Digest, P-40, pp.350-353.
Therefore, there is a problem that as many sets of alignment marks as holographic masks have to be placed on a substrate, requiring more alignment marks on a substrate in proportion to the increasing number of holographic masks to be used, which eventually requires a larger area on a substrate for forming alignment marks.
In the holographic exposure system, alignment marks to be placed on holographic masks need to be formed separately from device areas. Specifically, it is necessary to form alignment marks at an interval of about 5 mm from device areas and from alignment marks for other holographic masks (other layers), for the sake of accuracy of a manufacturing system (refer to FIGS. 11 and 12).
FIGS. 11A and 11B are two-dimensional diagrams schematically showing a first layer mask and a second layer mask, each being an original Cr mask (an former reticle) for forming a holographic mask. As shown in FIG. 11A, the first layer mask includes a first layer device area D1 in the center and a first layer alignment mark A1 on each corner. Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 11B, the second layer mask includes a second layer device area D2 in the center and a second layer alignment mark A2 on each corner. The pattern of the alignment mark A1 and the pattern of the alignment mark A2 are different from each other.
FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams schematically showing procedures on the holographic mask (the second layer mask) for recording a device area and for recording alignment marks, respectively. As shown in FIG. 12A, in the recording of a device area, recording is done onto the holographic mask, with the four alignment marks A2 on the original Cr mask 2 closed with light shields, by an object beam passing through the device area D2 and a reference beam passing through a prism. Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 12B, in the recording of alignment marks, recording is done onto the holographic mask, with the device area D2 closed with a light shield, by an object beam passing through the four alignment marks A2 on the original Cr mask 2. Here, on the resulting holographic mask, the alignment marks and the device area are placed at an interval of about 5 mm from each other. Further, although it is not shown in the drawings, in the case where more alignment marks for other layers are placed on the same mask with the first four alignment marks, each of the alignment marks is placed at an interval of about 5 mm from each other.
In the case of a combined exposure, the upper layer alignment marks are patterned overlappingly onto the lower layer alignment marks, making them unreusable for alignments in further exposures.

Method for aligning exposure mask and method for manufacturing thin film device substrate