To authenticate an Internet web site, the web site is verified each time it is accessed by a user browser (12). On receipt of a page request, the web site generates a web page into which is embedded a URL site address or other unique identifier. A cookie, link to an image or java applet or similar, for execution of the verification process may also be embedded or may be resident on the user browser. At the user, the browser instantiates the cookie, link to image or applet and extracts the URL site address or unique identifier which is sent, together with user ID to a verification server (16). The server performs comparison, comparing the URL address or unique identifier with a record of the correct identifier and/or URL address. Based on the comparison, an approval status is generated and sent back to the browser. This is displayed as a graphic in the browser or in any other way. The graphic includes an animated portion to increase security. The graphic also includes a user generated code or challenge which is stored on the verification server and which is sent back to the user upon successful authentication.

In recent years, e-commerce, the business of trading across the Internet has grown very rapidly and growth is forecast to continue growing rapidly. This growth has brought with it problems in security and authenticity. Many web sites exist which purport to be the genuine source for goods but which are actually bogus, either selling counterfeit goods of being an unauthorised source for genuine goods.
It is presently very easy for a bogus third party to register an Internet domain name which is identical or very similar to a well known brand. Internet search engines will find these similar IP addresses and take browsers to any site bearing a close resemblance in name or page content. Thus is the correct, legitimate address is bloggsandbloke.com it is very common to find unrelated addresses such as bloggs+bloke.com, bloggs−bloke.com, bloggsandbloke.co.uk etc.
It is equally easy to lift the front page of the genuine web site of bloggsandbloke.com and import it onto the rogue site. As result, browsers, and their users, think that they are in the genuine site of Bloggs and Bloke PLC, when, in reality, they are visiting a rogue site.
In the past attempts have been made to authenticate web sites to give customers a degree of security. However, all authentication systems have been static; a given web site is authenticated in advance and can display an authentication symbol, for example, an authentication logo, typically on its home page. The authentication symbol is displayed automatically every time that site is accessed. Whilst such systems offer a degree of consumer protection, there are far from infallible. Not only can authentication symbols be copied, the accreditation cannot take into account changes made to a web site's content or the site provider. If the front page has been copied the unlawful copies will also include the authentication.
Security mechanisms already exist to allow safe (encrypted) transfer of information such as credit card numbers etc. However, these systems merely provide an encryption mechanism and offer no guarantee as to the authenticity of the site.
There is, therefore, a need for an improved system for accreditation and authentication of Internet web sites. The invention aims to meet this need and, in its broadest form, provides a method of dynamic authentication in which authentication takes place each time the site is accessed by a remote user.
In its broadest form, the invention provides a method, apparatus and programme which ensures that the web site is verified by a verification server each time it is accessed. More specifically there is provided a method of verifying the authenticity of an Internet web site comprising the steps of: sending a page request from a user to the site to be authenticated; at the site to be verified, generating a web page containing a site identification and sending the generated page to the user; at the user, extracting the site identification and sending it to a verification server; at the verification server, comparing the site identification with a pre-stored identification; and based on the comparison, indicating to the user whether or not the site is authentic, the indication including sending a predetermined user originated identifier back to the user.
The invention further provides a system for verifying the authenticity of an Internet web site comprising:at the site to be authenticated: means for generating a web page on receipt of a page request from a user browser, the generating means including means for embedding in the page a site identification; and means for sending the generated page to the user browser; at the user: means for extracting the site identification; and means for sending it to a verification server; at the verification server: means for comparing the site identification with a pre-stored identification; and means for, indicating to the user whether or not the site is authentic, based on the comparison, and, if authentic, returning a predetermined user originated identifier to the user.
The invention further provides a computer program comprising program code means for performing, when the program is run on a computer or a computer network, the steps of: on receipt of a page request from a remoter location, generating a web page containing a site identification and sending the generated page to the remote location; at the remote location, extracting the site identification and sending it to a verification server; receiving from the verification server at the remote location an indication of whether or not the site is authentic based on a comparison at the verification server of the site identification and a pre-stored identification; displaying at the remote location an identifier originating from the remote location if the site is authentic; and displaying at the remote location the indication received from the verification server.
Embodiments of the invention have the advantage that the front page of a web site cannot be lifted in such a manner that it carries the verification as the verification is generated every single time the web site is accessed and the user receives a user originated identifier which ensures that the verification signal originates from the authenticating server.
Preferably, the web page generated by the site to be verified has embedded within in it a unique identification number whereby the web page is unique. This has the advantage that the page will not be cached by an Internet Service Provider. Internet Service Providers generally only cache the most frequently visited sites as a means of cutting down response times. As the site is then not cached the authentication process cannot be bypassed by obtaining pages from the cache.
Preferably, the indication to the user of whether or not the site is authentic comprises a graphic display within the browser, or at least a portion of the browser. Preferably at least a part of this graphic is animated. Animation of a portion of the graphic makes it harder for the graphic to be copied.
The web page generated by the site to be authenticated may contain an applet or a cookie or a link to the verification server, which may be resident on that user's browser. The applet or cookie or link mechanism performs the functions of extracting site identification from the generated web page once it is received at the user's browser, communicating with the verification server, sending the verifying server a code or a challenge phrase, created by the user and generating the graphic display with the challenge phrase which is sent back to the user.
Preferably the applet handles each of the three operations mentioned above as separate concurrent threads.
The system (10), illustrated in FIG. 1 comprises a user browser (12), which may be a conventional Internet browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator which may be modified to include a custom Java applet or cookie which will be described. The browser may run on any convenient platform such as a PC or Macintosh. The browser communicates with a corporate server 14 over a conventional Internet link via an Internet service provider (ISP) (not shown). In order to access the corporate server, which hosts the corporation's web site, the browser sends the conventional hypertext transfer Protocol (HTTP) address for the server and sends a page request. The authentication system to be described is based on the concept of the corporate server generating a fresh web page with a unique serial number and a java applet or cookie embedded in it. This web page is received at the user browser and the applet or cookie causes a verification request to be sent to authentication server 16 which is remote from the corporate server and which verifies the URL address and signals back to the user browser that the site has either been verified or that the verification has failed. The applet or cookie may be resident on the browser or may be downloaded each time from the corporate server embedded in the uniquely generated web page.
The system described enables verification that data received from a web site has come from an accredited source. Thus, the data delivered is provided by a certified data provider and the accreditation status is verified each time the web site is accessed. Once the site has been verified, the results of the verification process are made known to the Internet browser in a dynamic format, preferably a multi-layer dynamic format to make logo theft difficult. Furthermore, when the user communicates with verifying server, he sends a code or challenge phrase which then accompanies the verification logo, signs or signal when it is sent back to the user.
At each stage of the process, measures are included to prevent ISP caching mechanisms. This ensures that authentication is performed each time the site is accessed. For this reason, and as an additional safety measure, a unique serial number is provided by the corporate server a value which is unique and generated each time a page request is received.
The system will now be described in greater detail. The Internet browser (12) preferably uses one of two common protocols for information interchange: HTTP and CGI. Other protocols may be used. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is a simple to use protocol in which requests to a server are made in standard text and the initial responses are text only. The protocol is simple to implement and debug.
Common Gateway Interface (CGI) is a well known protocol used to generate composite documents. HTTP is a protocol for delivering of documents which have no real processing capabilities. To increase the usability of the World Wide Web, server-side programs are run that generate page content when required. These are often written in simple scripting languages. Data is passed to these server scripts via HTTP through the CGI. The server scripts convert incoming information from CGI standard text format into a more usable form using well known procedures.
It is common practice for ISP's to prove a local copy of popular web sites. The ISP then responds to page requests as if they had originated from the original provider. This caching process speeds up access to these sites' information. It will be understood that in the preferred embodiment of the invention, caching of authenticated sites is not possible as the method requires the actual corporate server to generate a unique code each time the site is accessed. Thus, a dynamic page is generated containing the authentication applet with each page being unique. The ISP is unable to cache the HTTP page request and the applet is therefore delivered from the publisher, the corporate server, rather than the ISP. Caching does not take place as the web page is unique and therefore not recognised by the ISP as one which is frequently accessed. This is also the case if the applet is resident on the browser.
To increase security still further, metatags may be provided in the corporate page to prevent attempts at caching by the ISP.
The system outlined above may also incorporate a system for the re-authorization of pre-authorised web sites each time the site is accessed. The pre-authorisation step is an off-line process performed by the verification authority. When the owner of the corporate server, the publisher, has satisfied the verifying authority that they are a genuine goods or service provider within the criteria to be set by the verifying authority, the publisher is registered and issued with a unique serial number and a script to generate the remaining data which, together with the serial number will be embedded in the web page generated when the corporate server is accessed. These two elements of the page serial number for a unique request number which will be delivered to the applet as a routine parameter.
Once established, the unique serial number is embedded in the page sent to the user browser as a parameter to the applet. The unique serial number may take the form:
<supplied serial number>−<UTC based integer>−[<CGI process ID or iteration count>].
An example of a unique identifier code is as follows:
Supplied Serial number (registration no): PDQ4567X
Current UTC time value when page requestion: 949424629
Current CGI process ID (or iteration count): 6541
The unique number generated is: PDQ4567X-949424629-6541.
This number provides the verifying authority with two pieces of verification data. The first is the registered publisher serial number which had been supplied by the verifying authority to the publisher, which is used as the primary key when performing site verification. If verification fails, the verification server can identify the source of the errant applet.
The optional second verification data is the time, according to the publisher, that the applet was delivered. This is stored at the verification server cache as the last time the applet was used. If a request us made with a substantially older time stamp, a security exception is raised and the request considered stale. Where a time stamp is only marginally older it will still be accepted as the routing path could have been more complex and a delayed legitimate request. The time is expressed as a Universal Time Code.
The iteration count is a number which automatically increments each time a page request is received and can wrap around at the maximum number of concurrent processes supported by the publisher's system architecture. Some systems cannot support an iteration count and a CGI process ID may be used instead each process ID number is unique. This may be used, for example, in UNIX based systems.
Where a request is stale, the applet forces a page reload from the original publisher to overcome local browser cache or user-connection problems.
The process will now be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2. In the following description, it is assumed that the site to be accessed has already been assigned a serial number by the verifying authority.
At step 100, a page delivery script in CGI Script is sent from the Internet browser (12), to the corporate web-server (14).
The web-server receives the page delivery request and performs the steps necessary to generate and send a unique web page back to the browser. At step 102 the web server receives the page request. At step 104 the unique serial number is generated comprising the provided serial number, the UTC date and time and the iteration count or process id as described earlier.
At step 106 the corporate web server sets a codebase for Java applet or cookie delivery. Applets or cookies may be used interchangeably in this embodiment of the invention. As the applet is the more complex, it will be described in detail. The manner in which the invention is implemented using cookies will be described later. The codebase is the absolute network location from which the applet or cookie is delivered and, in the case of the applet, forms part of the applet program. It ensures that secure connection may be made to the verification server.
At step 108 the corporate web server creates a web page in which is embedded the applet and the unique serial number. The applet will be described in greater detail later on.
At step 110 the newly created web page is sent to the user's Internet browser.
Thus at this stage, the user has sent a page request to the corporate web server which has replied with a web page which is unique to that request.
In practice, the user has merely clicked on a hypertext link to the corporation owning the corporate web server or entered the site's URL in the address field of the browser. The user's browser will not yet display anything from the corporate web server.
At step 112, the browser receives the web page from the corporate web server and at step 114 instantiates the applet embedded in the page. The applet then executes within the Java (or similar) environment.
At step 116 the Java applet extracts the document base for the current page. This is the absolute location, that is the network address and the page location of the document delivered over the World Wide Web. The (optional) embedded code base is then retrieved from the delivered page and the current user environment is noted. This latter process records the user network address for reporting.
Java (or similar mechanisms) support concurrent operation with a number of tasks running at the same time within its own environment. Each of these tasks is an execution thread. At step 118, the applet creates two new concurrent execution threads. New thread 1 handles graphics operations and new thread 2 handles communications with the verification server.
At step 120 thread 1 of the applet draws a background graphic frame. At step 122 thread 2 of the applet opens a secure connection to the verification server 16. At step 124 thread 2 sends the page serial number, network delivery, page addresses and current environment data to the verification server. This data may be sent in encrypted form. At step 126 thread 1 of the applet creates pending and clipping frames. The latter is a frame which defines an area of an image which requires updating. Any drawing requests falling outside that defined area will be ignored.
At step 128 thread 1 of the applet overlays the background, pending and clipping frames and at step 130 displays the composite frame and starts animation. The user will now see the composite frame displayed in their browser. While thread 1 of the applet is executing, the verification server, at 132 receives and accepts the secure connection request. At step 134 the request is analysed and a serverlet instantiated to enable multiple concurrent verification transactions. It will be appreciated that the system described considers only one user and one corporate server. In practice, the verification server will handle requests from many users relating to many corporate servers. The serverlet is a small Java based program running within the verification net server.
At step 136 the serverlet decodes the received data and stores it for later analysis and security exception reports. At step 138 the serverlet performs a Java Data Base Connectivity (JDBC) lookup to validate the data. Depending on the results of the lookup, the serverlet either generates an approved status with an embedded serial number at step 140 or a not approved status. In the latter case a non approved status is generated if the corporate server has an unknown address or the (optional) serial number is not available, or where the serial number is stale. Where the system is not approved a security exception is generated. At step 142 the serverlet returns the approval status to the user's Internet browser. At step 140 the serverlet closes and at step 142 the connection to the verification web server closes.
At step 144 the user's Internet browser receives the approval status and at step 146 thread 2 of the applet generates a "pass" or 'fail' graphic pane. If a "pass" is displayed, the (optional) serial number is also displayed. This pane overrides the pending frame becoming the middle layer of the animated logo. At step 148 thread 2 closes any active terminals, releases resources and terminates. At step 146 thread 1 enters an animation loop until the browser moves to another page or closes. The animation is displayed in the area defined by the clipping frame and may be a logo indicating that the corporate site is verified as authentic. At step 152 the applet releases all resources when the browser moves to another page or closes. The threads are stopped and any memory used is cleared. The applet then terminates.
The Java applet is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 3. As discussed in the foregoing, the applet comprises three threads: thread 0, thread 1 and thread 2. When the applet is first instantiated thread 0 is created automatically on the Java Virtual Machine which is resident on all web browsers within the browser environment. It instantiates the other two execution threads and creates the necessary components for the other threads to manipulate. The thread eventually loops through a graphic refresh request and a small 100 ms pause becoming the animation controller.
When the applet receives a termination request, thread 0 stops all other threads and the releases all resources before terminating itself (step 152, FIG. 2).
At step 202 thread 0 requests a logo component from the verification server and at step 204 the logo is drawn onto the clipping frame. Of course, the logo is only drawn if the site has been verified.
Thread 1, at step 300 creates three graphics frames. The thread is responsible for creating or updating the system graphics double buffer such that the applet is self animating. The graphics sub-system has three layers: a base frame which contains a shape such as a background rectangle, background and static imagery; a middle frame containing any moving imagery; and a top, clipping frame which limits the drawing area to a defined area as discussed previously. The three layers are re-assembled and repainted as one graphic image which becomes the image source for thread 0. Thus, in FIG. 3, the three layers are drawn at step 302 and overlayed onto the base graphic at step 304. The middle layer is updated at step 304, for example to show a rotating graphic and the current verification status. The final two steps are looped until the browser is closed or moves to a new page.
The third thread, thread 2, handles client-server communications and acquires the information required to validate a page. The thread replaces the middle frame used by thread 1 with an updated graphic once the main verification server has sent its response back to the applet. Thus, in FIG. 3 at step 400 thread 2 opens a connection to the verification server. At step 402 the unique page number, the delivery address and browser data are sent to the verification server and at step 404 the response is decoded and, according to the response, a new middle frame is generated. At step 406 the middle frame generated by thread 1 is replaced with the new graphic.
The verification server performs a database look up using JDBC to ensure that the details provided by the corporate server match. As the UTC and iteration count/process id are unique it is only the supplied serial number which is compared along with the codebase. If any inconsistencies are found the server sends a fail status back to the applet. If none are found a success status is returned.
Communications with the server are over a secure communication service which is well-known. As a new connection is established the server spawns a new task to deal with the incoming request, ensuring that each task cannot interfere with any other task and providing a mechanism to balance server loading over multiple back end machines.
Data inconsistencies or processing difficulties automatically generate a security exception. These are analysed at the verification server. Pattern matching techniques may be used to identify hacking activity. As each applet has an individual signature, misuse of an applet can be traced and an offending web or hacking site can be tracked.
In order to understand the applet process further, the pseudocode for the process running on the browser is as follows, where the reference numerals refer to FIG. 4.
START - 500CHECK FOR PREVIOUS DETAILS - 502IF PREVIOUS DETAILS NOT FOUND THENINPUT CHALLENGE PHRASE - 504REGISTER CHALLENGE PHRASE WITH SERVER - 506ENDIFSTART ANIMATION THREADSTART COMMUNICATION THREADLOOP UNTIL STOP SIGNAL RECEIVEDREDISPLAY ANIMATION THREAD FRAMEIF POINTER WITHIN APPLET BOUNDS THENDISPLAY FLOATING CHALLENGE PHRASEENDIFENDLOOPENDCOMMUNICATION THREAD:STARTEXTRACT PAGE DETAILS AND BROWSER ENVIRONMENT - 508SEND PAGE DETAILS AND BROWSER ENVIRONMENT TOSERVERAWAIT SERVER RESPONSE - 510IF TIMEOUT OR SERVER VERIFICATION FAILURE THENCALL VERIFICATION FAILURE IN ANIMATION THREADELSEGET SERIAL NUMBER AND CHALLENGE PHRASE FROMRESPONSECALL VERIFICATION SUCCESS IN ANIMATION THREADENDIFSTOP - 518ANIMATION THREADSTARTCREATE ANIMATION GRAPHIC FRAMES (3) - 512CREATE BACKGROUND IN FRAME (0)CREATE PENDING LOGO IN FRAME (1)CREATE CLIPPING WINDOW IN FRAME (2)LOOP:- 516DRAW FRAME (0)OVERLAY FRAME (1)OVERLAY FRAME (2)UNTIL STOP SIGNAL RECEIVEDANIMATION THREAD: VERIFICATION FAILURE: 514STARTCREATE FAILURE IMAGE IN FRAME (1)ENDANIMATION THREAD VERIFICATION SUCCESS:STARTCREATE VERIFICATION IMAGE IN FRAME (1)END
As mentioned above, cookies and link mechanisms may be used in place of applets. Cookies and link mechanisms perform the process described in a similar manner except that most of the processing is carried out on the verification server. Thus, in FIG. 2, at step 108, link mechanism is embedded in the web page sent to the User's browser and at steps 114, 116 and 118 the web browser executes, extracts the document base and creates the concurrent execution threads respectively. The generation of the verification sign or logo and the accompanying challenge phrase are handled differently. Both are received from the verification server, as an image without having to be generated by an applet.
The manner in which challenge phrases are used in the embodiments described will now be described in greater detail. It will be appreciated from the discussion of the browser pseudo-code and FIG. 4 that a challenge phrase is registered with the verification server by the user when they first use the system. This is performed when the user signs up or subscribes to the verification system. The user is required to provide a challenge phrase; a code which may be viewed as a user originated identifier chosen by him. This is sent to the verification server and stored and the user is registered.
When an authentication is performed, the unique web page downloaded from the merchant includes an image tag, for example in HTML form. This may be in the form: <img src="http://www.trdesafely.com/image.gif">.
The user's browser downloads the image tags from the merchant. The user browser then generates a link to the verification server, the verification server asks a first time user to register giving his name and user defined challenge phrase or identifier. The verification server stores the user data and sends a cookie containing a unique ID to the user browser.
In cases of users already registered with the verification server, The user's browser downloads the image tags from the merchant. The user browser then generates a link to the verification server, the verification server looks at the merchants address (URL) or site identification and compares this with pre stored data. If the verification server recognises the address (URL) and/or site identification, it will generate an authentication signal to the user. The verification server also checks the user ID which is extracted from the cookie stored on the user's browser, and attaches the user defined identifier or challenge phrase to the authentication signal. This enables the user to be confident that verification has been properly performed by the correct verification server.
At the verification server, the referring page's URL is extracted, then the cookie having the user's unique ID is extracted. The verification server compares the referring URL address with a database of approved URL addresses and searches a database of registered users for the extracted user ID number and extracts the challenge phrase associated with it. The verification server then sends, preferably as an image, a response to the user which includes the challenge phrase.

Method and apparatus for internet web site accreditation


Apparatus for steer head roping training comprising a simulated steer head with pivoting horns which pivot upwards, and also optionally rearward, as a lasso rope around the horns is pulled by a roping trainee, thereby releasing the lasso for repetitive training. A tension spring, which is attached to the bottom or inside end of each horn and stretched between them, urges the horns to an anatomically correct down position until a lasso rope around the horns is pulled, and restores the horns to an anatomically correct position when the lasso has been released. A head pivoting bracket may also provide for upward pivoting of the head as the lasso rope is pulled, further facilitating the release of the lasso from the horns, and for restoring the head to an anatomically correct down position when the lasso has been released.

This invention relates to devices for roping skills training, and particularly, to training devices for steer head roping skills.
Steer head roping is perhaps one of the oldest roping skills practiced by those engaged in cattle ranching operations. It remains a vital skill for those involved in handling cattle on the open range and in other settings, even in the most modem of ranching operations.
Interest in developing roping skills and in roping competition has also steadily increased, particularly with the advent of rodeo and jackpot team roping, which has become one of the more popular forms of equestrian competition. Currently, over a hundred thousand team ropers compete each year for millions of dollars in prize money. These competitions are held throughout the west, mid-west and southern states.
Team roping involves one team member, the header, roping the head and the other team member, the heeler, roping the hind legs of the steer. Because of the highly competitive nature of this event, a high level of proficiency involving split second timing is required for the team member which ropes the head. The high level of proficiency required can only be developed through a considerable amount of repetitive practice.
Because there is only a limited number of practice animals and limited facilities for practicing, the repetitive practice of roping skills on live animals is not practical. It is also not humane because of the cumulative stress and distress imposed on the animals. Furthermore, obtaining and maintaining a collection of livestock and a large arena with the required facilities is very costly. Also, it is very difficult to make efficient use of one""s time in practicing with live animals. Accordingly, there has long been a need for alternative means for practice and training.
Training devices of various kinds have been developed through the years to assist in the training of headers. Since most headers prefer to rope just the horns of the steer, the simplest training device is a set of horns which can be affixed to a bail of hay or any other anchoring object. The simple devices also include a dummy steer head, with dimensions approximating a typical steer head and with horns of a fixed length. These simple devices can also be mounted on a mobile object such as an ATV or a simulated steer pulled behind a motor vehicle to provide for some in-motion training from horseback. These devices require the roper to manually remove the rope from the horns or head of the dummy before proceeding with another practice throw.
Several prior art devices have been developed to deal with these problems and limitations of typical steer head roping dummies. U.S. Pat. No. 3,066,939 to Sprout discloses an apparatus with hinged horns which immediately releases the rope with little resistance. The roper will often have difficulty determining if he has correctly roped both horns. U.S. Pat. No. 4,364,570 to Hallam discloses an apparatus incorporating retractable horns which are remotely actuated and retracted into a hollow steer head, thereby releasing the rope. The horns are then extended back to the roping position for further practice.
Known devices each provide an alternative means for practicing steer head roping without the use of live animals. However, each of these devices fails to meet one or more of the obvious objectives for such a training apparatus.
One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a steer head roping training apparatus which provides for an automatic, quick but confirmable release of the rope so that the roping practice can be immediately repeated without re-setup or other delay.
It is a further objective of the present invention to provide a steer head roping training apparatus which simulates a typical steer head.
A still further objective of the present invention is to provide a steer head roping training apparatus which allows the ready exchange of horns of various lengths.
A still further objective of the present invention is to provide a steer head roping intraining apparatus which can be readily affixed to an ATV frame or simulated steer for in-motion training.
A still further objective of the present invention is to provide a steer head roping training apparatus which can be readily affixed to popular heeling training apparatuses so that team roping skills of heading and heeling can be practiced simultaneously and in concert by team members.
A still further objective of the present invention is to provide a steer head roping training apparatus which is economical, light and durable. A still further objective of the present invention is to provide a steer head roping training apparatus with inexpensive and easily replaceable parts.
The present invention comprises a simulated steer head with horns of a selected length which are pivotally attached to the simulated steer head in transverse pivot grooves. Downward pivoting of each of the horns is limited to an anatomically correct position and the upward pivoting of the horns is in a plane which is roughly perpendicular to the normal direction of forward movement of the simulated animal or may be angled rearward from the vertical so that the tips of the horn rotate somewhat rearward as they are pivoted upward. This pivot angle is determined by the angle of inclination of the pivot groove and the corresponding pivot bolt axis. A tension spring extends between spring anchors on the bottom or the inside end of each of the horns, thereby maintaining the horns in the downward anatomically correct position until they are urged upward during roping practice.
As the user lassos the horns and pulls on the rope, thereby tightening the rope around the horns, the horns pivot with the tips rotating upward, thereby releasing the rope for the next roping practice attempt. Some embodiments also provide for somewhat rearward rotation of the tips of the horns as they rotate upward, thereby facilitating the release of the rope. A tension spring provides desired resistance to the release, thereby providing the user an opportunity to determine that both horns have been appropriately roped. Upon the release of the rope, the horns snap back to the anatomically correct position, ready for another roping attempt.
The apparatus of the present invention may also be equipped with a pivot mount, such as a hay bracket, at the rear end of the simulated steer head by which the head can be pivotally mounted to a support. This pivot mount limits the downward rotation of the head to an anatomically correct forward down position, but allows upward rotation as the rope is tightened and pulled on the horns by the user, thereby facilitating the release of the rope by the apparatus.


The boundary friction properties of lubricating oils are improved by including at least one polymeric ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymer derived dispersant and a molybdenum compound into a lubricating oil of a lubricating viscosity. A concentrate for addition into an oil of lubricating viscosity is also disclosed.

This invention relates to engine oil lubricants and engine oil lubricant concentrates having enhanced frictional properties and improved fuel economy, methods for their preparation, and their use. The lubricating oil compositions of this invention are particularly useful as crankcase lubricants.
An automotive crankcase is subjected to well known extremes of heat and friction which cause engine oil breakdown, as well as contribute to the presence of contaminants including dirt, soot, water and other particulate matter.
This environment results in the oil suffering oxidation that is catalyzed by the presence of impurities in the oil such as iron compounds, and the oxidation is enhanced by the elevated temperatures endured during engine use.
Various engine oil additives are known for improving the internal operating condition of an engine, including anti-wear agents, antioxidants, friction modifiers, detergents, and dispersants. Each may improve the oil through controlling any of various degradations suffered during use.
The additives may be added to the fuel composition, the engine oil, or other lubricants and greases as appropriate, be they synthetic or natural.
Dispersants of various forms are known. These are primarily additives for lubricating oils, which function at low operating temperatures to prevent or retard the formation of sludge, and also to solubilize the sludges which are formed. In structure, most dispersants have a polar and nonpolar portion. The nonpolar portion is frequently a polybutene, and the polar portion contains amino groups.
The industry trend is to provide ashless dispersants, i.e., without metal.
Succinimide dispersants are well known, they are typically based on polybutene (900-3000 Mn) adducts of maleic anhydride reacted with various polyamines, e.g. tetraethylene pentamine or triethylene tetramine. Bis-succinimides are generally preferred over monosuccinimides, even though product viscosities are higher. Succinate esters, based on polybutene adducts that are esterified with polyols, e.g. pentaerythritol, are also known.
Mannich base products consisting of condensation products from polybutene alkylphenol, formaldehyde, and polyamines are also known.
Alkenyl-substituted succinic anhydrides derived dispersants are well known. Such alkenyl-substituted succinic anhydrides are typically prepared by a thermal process (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 3,361,673), or a mixed thermal/chlorination process (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 3,172,892). The polyisobutenyl succinic anhydrides (xe2x80x9cPIBSAxe2x80x9d) include monomeric adducts (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,219,666; 3,381,022) and products adducted with at least 1.3 succinic groups per polyalkenyl-derived substituent (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,234,435 to Meinhardt).
PIBSA serves as a ubiquitous precursor to several crankcase ashless dispersants, including succinimides, succinates, succinate esters amides, and triazoles (U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,272,746; 4,234,435; 3,219,666; 4,873,009; 4,908,145; and 5,080,815). In the formation of succinimides, the PIBSA is reacted with a polyamine to form a structurally complex mixture that may contain imide, amide, and imidazoline and diamide groups.
The above-mentioned Mannich base dispersants represent another known class of crankcase dispersants (e.g. HiTEC(copyright) 7049 dispersant, available from Ethyl Corporation, of Richmond, Va.). These compounds are typically produced by reacting alkyl-substituted phenols with aldehydes and amines, such as is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,539,633; 3,697,574; 3,704,308; 3,736,535; 3,736,357; 4,334,085; and 5,433,875.
Also known are functionalized olefin copolymers and their use as additives in fuel and lubricating oil compositions, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,107,258, which describes a cross linked low molecular weight ethylene-propylene succinic anhydride dispersant. The functionalized olefin copolymers disclosed therein include an olefin copolymer on which has been grafted an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid, or derivative thereof, to form an acylated olefin copolymer containing reactive carboxylic functionality. The acylated olefin copolymer is then reacted with a coupling compound, which contains more than one amine, thiol and/or hydroxy functionality capable of reacting with the carboxylic functionality of preferably more than one acylated olefin copolymer.
Additionally, the acylated olefin copolymers, either before or after reaction with the coupling compound, are reacted with a performance enhancing compound or compounds, i.e., compounds containing only one functional group capable of reacting with the carboxylic functionality of the acylated olefin copolymer, in order to obtain further benefits such as improved antioxidancy, antiwear and additional dispersancy properties.
Molybdenum is a well-known wear inhibitor (friction modifier), and available commercially in many forms.
Molybdenum carboxylate salts are known to increase fuel economy. Various organo molybdenum compounds are available for inclusion in a lubricating oil, including molybdenum ditridecyldithiocarbonate, and others.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,144,712 discloses oil-soluble molybdenum additives useful in lubricating oils such as molybdates of organic nitrogen bases.
Molybdenum dialkyldithiocarbamates are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,098,705; 4,846,983; 5,916,851; 3,356,702; 3,509,051; and 4,098,705.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,176,074 to Coupland discloses molybdenum complexes of ashless oxazoline dispersants as friction reducing antiwear additives for lubricating oils.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,266,945 to Karn discloses molybdenum containing compositions prepared by reacting an acid or salt of molybdenum, a phenol or reaction product of a phenol and at least one lower aldehyde, and an amine, condensation product of an amine, and salts of an amine or condensation product of an amine.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,324,672 to Levine discloses molybdenum derivatives of high molecular weight alkenylsuccinimides.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,650,380 to Fletcher discloses a lubricating composition including a base oil of mineral or synthetic in origin in combination with molybdenum disulfide, zinc naphthenate, and one or more metal dithiophosphates, with optionally one or more metal dithiocarbamates.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,650,381 to Gatto et al. discloses a lubricating oil composition comprising a molybdenum compound which is substantially free of active sulfur and a secondary diarylamine. This combination is said to provide improved oxidation control and friction modifier performance to the lubricating oil.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,491 to Patel discloses improving fuel economy characteristics of a lubricant by friction reduction by mixing the lubricant with a C2 to C12 aliphatic carboxylate salt of molybdenum and a zinc dialkyldithiophosphate or zinc dialkyldithiocarbamate.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,744,430 to Inoue et al. discloses, with certain limiting conditions, a base oil with an alkaline earth metal salicylate detergent, a zinc dialkyldithiophosphate, a succinimide ashless dispersant containing a polybutenyl group, a phenol ashless antioxidant, a molybdenum dithiocarbamate friction modifier, and a viscosity index improver.
Molybdenum containing additives are known to deliver a variety of beneficial properties to lubricants. Examples of lubricants that benefit from the addition of molybdenum include passenger car motor oils, natural gas engine oils, heavy duty diesel oils, and railroad oils. Over the years, when used properly, molybdenum has been shown to deliver improved anti-wear protection, improved oxidation control, improved deposit control, and improved friction modification for fuel economy.
The prior art is replete with examples showing the use of molybdenum as antioxidants, deposit control additives, anti-wear additives, and friction modifiers. Some of these include U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,360,438; 4,501,678; 4,529,526; 4,692,256; 4,705,641; 4,812,246; 4,832,867; 5,458,807; 5,605,880; 5,650,381; 5,658,862; 5,665,684; 5,688,748; 5,696,065; 5,736,491; 5,763,369; 5,786,307; 5,807,813; 5,814,587; 5,837,657; 5,840,672; 5,880,073; 6,034,038; 6,051,537; 6,103,673; and 6,103,674 PCT Application Nos. WO95/07966; WO95/07964; WO95/07963; WO95/27022; WO95/07961; and European Patent Applications No. 0447 916 A1 and 0 768 366 A1.
Numerous oil-soluble molybdenum compounds and their methods of preparation have been described in the art. For example, glycol molybdate complexes are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,285,942, overbased alkali metal and alkaline earth metal sulfonates, phenates, and salicylate compositions are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,832,857, molybdenum complexes prepared by reacting a fatty oil, a diethanolamine and a molbydenum source are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,889,647; a sulfur and phosphorus free organomolybdenum complex of organic amide are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,137,647; overbased molybdenum complexes prepared from amines, diamines, alkoxylated amines, glycols, and polyols is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,143,633; and 2,4-heteroatom substituted-molybdena-3,3-dioxacycloalkanes are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,412,130.
While there are myriad lubricating agents which may be classified as antiwear, antifriction, or extreme pressure agents, each may act in a completely different physical manner or chemical manner and often may compete with one another for sites on the metal surface of the moving part. Accordingly, extreme care must be exercised in the selection of additives to ensure compatibility and effectiveness.
While various oil additives can improve individual properties of a lubricating oil, it is desirable to achieve the most improvement with the least cost. Accordingly, applicants have developed a novel lubricating oil composition, which surprisingly improves the effectiveness of a molybdenum-containing friction modifier.
Unexpectedly, it has now been discovered that the choice of dispersant can improve the effectiveness of a molybdenum-containing friction modifier.
More specifically, a polymeric ethylene xcex1-olefin dispersant acts synergistically with molybdenum compounds to reduce friction in a lubricating oil system.
Thus, in one aspect, this invention is directed to a lubricating oil composition comprising (i) a major amount of a lubrication oil, (ii) an oil soluble molybdenum compound, and (iii) an ethylene-alpha-olefin derived copolymeric dispersant.
In another aspect, the invention is directed to the reduction of friction of a lubricant by incorporating a molybdenum compound and a polymeric dispersant into a base oil.
The present invention is also directed to motor vehicles and/or an engine lubricated with a lubricating oil composition as follows. The motor vehicle or engine may be a gasoline or diesel engine, and is lubricated with a composition including a lubricating oil of lubricating viscosity, a molybdenum-containing compound, and an ethylene-alpha-olefin derived copolymer dispersant.
In yet another aspect, the invention is directed to the production of a concentrate for addition to a base oil for the reduction of friction, including a polymeric ethylene-propylene copolymer dispersant and a source of molybdenum, in amounts effective to reduce friction of the finished oil composition.
The reduction in the quantity and number of different additives in a lubricating oil composition is desirable for cost and environmental reasons or both. Furthermore, increases in fuel economy are likewise desirable for not only emissions reduction purposes, but also for preservation of scarce natural resources.
However, the two objects can frequently be in conflict as improvements most commonly are achieved by adding additional components to a lubricating or fuel composition.
The less of an additive which needs to be included in a composition, the lower the cost, which savings can be then passed along to the consumer in the form of lower prices. Additionally, the emissions from internal-combustion engines are a matter of constantly growing concern, and improvements in performance through synergies can result in a reduction of emissions by the expedient inclusion of fewer compounds.
Applicants have discovered what appears to be a synergy between polymeric dispersants and molybdenum compounds, which results in unexpectedly superior reduction in the coefficient of friction within an internal combustion engine.
Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a lubricating oil composition which includes at least the following components:
a) oil of lubricating viscosity
b) a polymeric dispersant derived from an ethylene-xcex1-olefin copolymer, and
c) a molybdenum compound.
The lubricant is in one embodiment a Group II or higher oil, and the polymeric dispersant is most preferably a succinimide derived from an acylated ethylene-propylene copolymer.
In yet another embodiment, the succinimide is derived from an aromatic amine, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,135,671 (n-phenyl p-phenylene diamine).
A composition according to the present invention lowers the boundary friction coefficient and improves fuel economy in engines lubricated with said composition.
Other embodiments of this invention will become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and appended claims.
The percentages by weight of the dispersant additives noted in the specification and claims of this invention are on an oil free basis unless otherwise noted. For example, when an oil composition of the invention is described as containing at least 1% by weight of a dispersant additive, the oil comprises at least 1% by weight of the dispersant additive on an oil free basis. Thus, if the dispersant additive were available as a 40% by weight solution in oil, the oil composition would include at least 2.5% by weight of this dispersant oil solution.
The lubrication oil component of this invention may be selected from any of the synthetic or natural oils or mixtures thereof used as lubricants such as that for crankcase lubrication oils for spark-ignited and compression-ignited internal combustion engines, for example automobile and truck engines, marine, and railroad diesel engines. Synthetic base oils include alkyl esters of dicarboxylic acids, polyglycols and alcohols, poly-alpha-olefins, including, inter alia, polybutenes, alkyl benzenes, organic esters of phosphoric acids, and polysilicone oils.
Natural base oils include mineral lubrication oils which may vary widely as to their crude source, e.g., as to whether they are paraffinic, naphthenic, or mixed paraffinic-naphthenic.
The lubrication oil base stock conveniently has a viscosity of about 2.5 to about 15 cSt (mm2/s) and preferably about 2.5 to about 11 cSt (mm2/s) at 100xc2x0 C.
Suitable base stock oil includes Group I, II, III, and IV base oils, as are known to those of skill in the art. In certain instances, usually depending on the final use of the lubricant composition according to the present invention, Group I is preferred, and in other instances, Group II and III are preferred.
Group I base stocks contain less than 90% saturates (as determined by ASTM D 2007) and/or greater than 0.03 percent sulfur (as determined by ASTM D 2622, D4294, D 4927, or D 3120) and have a viscosity index greater than or equal to 80 and less than 120 (as determined by ASTM D 2270).
Group II base stocks contain greater than or equal to 90% saturates and less than or equal to 0.03% sulfur and have a viscosity index greater than 80 and less than 120 using the above noted test methods. Group II+oils may also be used. These are oils which have a VI at the high end of the VI spectrum, e.g. about 120.
Group III base stocks contain greater than or equal to 90 percent saturates and less than or equal to 0.03% sulfur and have a viscosity index greater than or equal to 120 using the tests noted above.
Group IV base stocks are polyalphaolefins (PAO).
Suitable molybdenum compounds include those derived from carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid amides or fatty acid amides, as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,578,690, 4,765,918, 4,889,647, 5,137,647.
Some commercially available molybdenum compounds derived from carboxylic acids that are suitable for use in the present invention include 15% Molybdenum HEX-CEM, available from OM Group, Inc.; Molybdenyl naphthenate 6%, and molybdenum octoate 8%, a molybdenum 2-ethylhexanoate available from Shepherd Chemical Company of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Molybdenum HEX-CEM(trademark) is supplied by the OM Group, Inc., of Cleveland, Ohio, and is a molybdenum 2-ethylhexanoate.
Further examples of suitable commercial molybdenum compounds derived from organic amides include Molyvan(copyright) 807, a 50 wt % molybdenum ditridecyldithiocarbonate containing about 50 wt % of an aromatic oil having a specific gravity of about 38.4 SUS and containing about 4.6 wt % molybdenum; Molyvan(copyright) 855 (a sulfur and phosphorus free decomposable organo molybdenum friction modifier which is an organomolybdenum complex of organic amide); Molyvan(copyright) 856B, also an organomolybdenum complex; Molyvan(copyright) 822 (a sulfur-containing molybdenum friction modifier); Molyvan(copyright)-A, which nominally contains 28.8 wt % Mo, 31.6 wt. % C, 5.4 wt % H, and 25.9 wt % S; Molyvan(copyright)-L, and sulfonated oxymolybdenum dialkyldithiophosphate (U.S. Pat. No. 5,055,174) each available from R.T. Vanderbilt Company, Inc., Norwalk, Conn.
Also commercially available is SAKURA LUBE(copyright) 500, a soluble Molybdenum dithiocarbamate and amine containing lubricant, containing 20.2 wt % Mo, 43.8 wt % C, 7.4 wt % H, and 22.4 wt % S, from Asahi Denki Corp, Tokyo, Japan.
Molybdenum carboxylate salts combined with zinc dialkyldiothiophosphates are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,491, while other molybdenum compounds are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,824,611; 4,633,001; 3,595,891.
Molybdenum dialkyldithiocarbamates are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,098,705; 4,846,983; 5,916,851; 3,356,702; 3,509,051; and 4,098,705.
Examples of commercial molybdenum dialkyl dithiocarbamates that may be used include Molyvan(copyright) 807 and Molyvan(copyright) 822, also available from R.T. Vanderbilt Company, Inc., Norwalk, Conn., and Sakura-Lube(copyright) 100, Sakura Lube(copyright) 155; Sakura Lube(copyright) 165, and Sakura Lube(copyright) 600, available from Asahi-Denka KK, Tokyo, Japan.
The amount of molybdenum added to the finished oil will vary depending on the customer requirement and the specific application. Treat levels may vary, by way of example and not of limitation, from about 50 to about 1500 ppm, preferably from 100 to 450 ppm, more preferably from about 100 to 250, and particularly about 125 to 250 ppm, and are generally dependent upon the performance requirements of the finished oil. However, any amount of the inventive components sufficient to achieve the unexpected but desirable synergy is within the scope of this invention.
The actual amount of molybdenum added is based upon the final molybdenum level desired in the lubricating composition. Thus, the quantity of additive will be tailored based upon active amounts of molybdenum required to form the final, finished oil having the beneficial properties. If the molybdenum is supplied in a concentrated form for later inclusion into a finished oil, the active amount of molybdenum in the concentrate should be tailored to supply the correct amount of active molybdenum in the final finished oil based upon a selected treat rate for the concentrate in the finished oil.
By xe2x80x9cactivexe2x80x9d molybdenum is meant the delivered elemental molybdenum from the molybdenum containing composition.
The molybdenum should be supplied in an amount effective to reduce the coefficient of friction in a synergistic manner with the ethylene-xcex1 olefin polymeric dispersant. Generally speaking, this is an amount of at least about 50 ppm, preferably at least about 100 ppm, more preferably at least 200 ppm, up to about about 1600 ppm, preferably up to about 800 ppm, more preferably up to about 500 ppm. The molybdenum may also beneficially provide an antioxidant effect.
In terms of fully formulated oil compositions, the invention is especially effective in formulating oils which meet the ILSAC GF-3 passenger car motor oil standard, published Oct. 12, 2000 by the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Commercially available dispersants are suitable for use in the present invention. For example, HiTEC(copyright) 1910 dispersant, an ethylene-propylene dispersant, manufactured by Ethyl Corporation, Richmond, Va. is especially preferred for use in the present invention. HiTEC(copyright) 1910 dispersant is an ethylene-propylene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride and reacted with n-phenyl phenylene diamine.
Low molecular weight ethylene-xcex1-olefin succinic anhydride dispersants, as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,075,383 and 6,117,825 is also suitable for use in the present invention. An example of a commercially available low molecular weight ethylene-propylene succinic anhydride dispersant (LEPSAD) is HiTEC(copyright) 1910 dispersant, available from Ethyl Corporation, Richmond, Va.
Also suitable in the present invention are ethylene alpha-olefin polymers as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,266,223; 5,350,532; and 5,435,926. Ethylene-propylene diene polymers, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,952,637, 5,356,999, 5,374,364, and 5,424,366 are also suitable.
A cross-linked low molecular weight ethylene-propylene succinic anhydride dispersant is also suitable for use in the present invention. These cross-linked dispersants are similar to the low molecular weight ethylene xcex1-olefin succinic anhydride dispersants discussed above, but additionally contain a multifunctional polyamine to achieve advantageous cross linking, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,107,258.
Suitable dispersants will be derived from ethylene-alpha-olefin polymers having a molecular weight of between about 300 and about 25,000, preferably from about 1000 to about 15,000; more preferably from about 5,000 to about 15,000.
The dispersants according to the present invention can be incorporated into the base stocks of the finished oil, or into a concentrate.
Given the synergy between the molybdenum compound and the polymeric dispersant, effective amounts of the dispersant in the finished oil can have a wide range, from about 0.001 to about 5.0 weight %, and preferably from about 0.005 to about 3.5 weight %, more preferably from about 0.1 to about 1.0 weight %, based upon the total weight of the composition.
In concentrates intended for dilution into a finished oil product, the amount would be proportionately higher.
The ratio of molybdenum to dispersant can vary widely based upon the end use of the finished oil product. However, it is presently preferred that the ratio of molybdenum to ethylene-apha-olefin dispersant is from about 0.01 to about 0.4 parts by weight of molybdenum per part of dispersant, based upon active molybdenum. Preferably, the ratio of molybdenum (active) to dispersant is from about 0.02 to about 0.2.
Stated another way, the present invention prefers a dispersant treat rate of about 0.06 weight percent to about 8 weight percent (preferably about 0.13 weight percent to about 4.0 weight percent) for a molybdenum treat rate of about 250 ppm to about 800 ppm
Other dispersants suitable for use as codispersants include nonmetallic additives containing nitrogen or oxygen polar groups attached to a high molecular weight hydrocarbon chain. The hydrocarbon chain provides solubility in the hydrocarbon base stocks. The dispersant functions to keep oil degradation products suspended in the oil. Examples of commonly used dispersants include copolymers such as polymethacrylates and styrene-maleic ester copolymers, succinimides, substituted succinamides, polyamine succinamides, polyhydroxy succinic esters, substituted Mannich bases, and substituted triazoles. Generally, the additional dispersant is present in the finished oil, in an amount of between about 0.1 and 5.0 wt %, based upon the active amount of dispersant.
The detergents are metallic additives containing charged polar groups, such as sulfonates or carboxylates, with aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, or alkylaromatic chains, and several metal ions. The detergents function by lifting deposits from the various surfaces of the engine. Examples of commonly used detergents include neutral and overbased alkali and alkaline earth metal sulfonates, neutral and overbased alkali and alkaline earth metal phenates, sulfurized phenates, overbased alkaline earth salicylates, phosphonates, thiopyrophosphonate, and thiophosphonates. Generally, the detergents are present in the finished oil between about 1.0 and 2.5 wt %, based upon active detergent amount.
ZDDP""s (zinc dihydrocarbyl dithiophosphates) are suitable for use in the present invention as antiwear additives. These additives function by reacting with engine metal surfaces to form a new surface active compound which itself is worn and thus protects the original engine surfaces. Other examples of suitable anti-wear additives include tricresol phosphate, dilauryl phosphate, sulfurized terpenes and sulfurized fats. ZDDP""s may also function as antioxidants. Generally, the ZDDP should be present in the finished oil between about 0.25 and 1.5 wt % based upon the active compound, or between about 1.0 and 1.5% based upon the active compound. When used, it is desirable for environmental reasons to have lower levels of ZDDP.
In oils according to the present invention, other antioxidants in addition to the zinc dihydrocarbyl dithiophosphates may be used to protect the oil from oxidative degradation. The amount of supplemental antioxidant will vary depending on the oxidative stability of the base stock. Typical treat levels in finished oils according to the present invention can vary from about 0.25 to about 2.5 wt %. The supplementary antioxidants that are generally used include hindered phenols, hindered bisphenols, sulfurized phenols, alkylated diphenylamines, sulfurized olefins, alkyl sulfides and disulfides, dialkyl dithiocarbamates, and phenothiazines.
The inclusion of molybdenum may lessen the need for these supplementary antioxidants. However, a supplementary antioxidant may be included in oils that are less oxidatively stable or in oils that are subjected to unusually severe conditions.
A polymeric viscosity index improver (VII) component may be used in this invention and such component may be selected from any of the known viscosity index improvers. The function of the VII is to reduce the rate of change of viscosity with temperature, i.e. they cause minimal increase in engine oil viscosity at low temperature but considerable increase at high temperature. Examples of viscosity index improvers include polyisobutylenes, polymethacrylates, ethylene/propylene copolymers, polyacrylates, styrene/maleic ester copolymers, and hydrogenated styrene/butadiene copolymers.
In addition to the lubricant additives mentioned thus far, there is sometimes a need for other supplemental additives that perform specific functions not provided by the main components. These additional additives include, pour point depressants, corrosion inhibitors, rust inhibitors, foam inhibitors and supplemental friction modifiers.
The compositions of the present invention may be in the form of a lubricating oil concentrate. Lubricating oil concentrates are added to a base stock during blending and manufacture to create a finished oil blend. Treat rates can vary widely, but it is preferable to have lower treat rates.
The lubricating oil concentrate will comprise a solvent and from about 2.5 to 90 weight percent (wt %) and preferably 5 to 75 wt % of the combination of the molybdenum additive and ethylene-propylene copolymeric dispersant of this invention. The solvent may be that of hydrocarbon oils, e.g., mineral lubrication oil or a synthetic oil. The ratio of molybdenum to dispersant in the concentrate composition is from about 0.02 to 0.6 parts of molybdenum per part of dispersant and preferably from about 0.04 to 0.4 parts of molybdenum for each part of the dispersant by weight.
In addition to the molybdenum and polymeric dispersant additives of this invention, the concentrate also may contain additional additives as is conventional in the art, e.g., dispersants, detergents, antioxidants, and zinc dihydrocarbyl dithiophosphates.
The molybdenum compound in this invention is, in certain circumstances, preferably substantially free of phosphorus and substantially free of active sulfur, and it may also be useful in low sulfur applications to have the molybdenum compound substantially free of sulfur whether active or otherwise.
Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled in the art can, using the preceding description, utilize the present invention to its fullest extent. The following preferred specific embodiments are, therefore, to be construed as merely illustrative, and not limitative of the remainder of the disclosure in any way whatsoever.
The entire disclosures of all applications, patents, and publications, cited above or below, are hereby incorporated by reference.

Lubricant containing molybdenum and polymeric dispersant


There is provided a method and apparatus for controlling a toy helicopter in flight. The toy helicopter is powered by a first rotor and a second rotor. A target speed ratio is determined for the speed of the first rotor and the speed of the second rotor. The speed of the rotors is adjusted incrementally until the target ratio is achieved

The present invention relates to toy helicopters. In particular, the present invention relates to a method and device for improving the controllability and stability of toy helicopters.
Toy helicopters, just like real helicopters, get lift from a rotor, spinning in a horizontal plane above the helicopter's main body. However, the spinning of the rotor causes torque to be applied on the helicopter, which makes it very difficult to maintain the helicopter in a forward-facing position.
Some helicopters solve this problem by having two coaxial rotors, each spinning in a direction opposite that of the other. As each of the two rotors creates a torque which counteract each other, the helicopter remains stable.
Another way to counteract the torque produced by the rotor is to add a tail rotor, which spins in a vertical plane. The force produced by such a tail rotor is designed to be in an opposite direction to the torque produced by the horizontal rotor, such that the helicopter remains stable.
However, as will be appreciated by people skilled in the art, the above solution requires that the rotors be precisely calibrated, since if too much or too little power is given to one of the rotors, the helicopter will be difficult to maneuver. In toy helicopters, this particularly creates problems in two situations: (1) when the helicopter's battery loses power, and (2) when the power to the rotor is increased or decreased suddenly.
Therefore, the present device and method provide a solution to the above problem. Specifically, the present device and method use software to ensure the amount of power provided to a second rotor is calibrated precisely to counteract the torque created by a first rotor.
There is further provided a device and method to precisely set the speed of a rotor according to a throttle position.
There is further provided a device and method to steer a toy helicopter by adjusting the power level of a first rotor and a second rotor.

Velocity feedback control system for a rotor of a toy helicopter


There is provided a clear antiperspirant/deodorant gel composition. The composition is a water-in-oil emulsion having a viscosity about 7,000 cps to about 25,000 cps and a clarity from about 30 NTU or less. The composition further has an antiperspirant active, water, silicone gelling agent, and one or more silicone oils.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a clear antiperspirant and/or deodorant gel composition for application to the skin. More particularly, the present invention relates to a gel composition that exhibits a soft feel to the skin when applied. Still more particularly, the present invention relates to a gel composition that provides a high degree of antiperspirant efficacy. It is believed that this gel composition has improved aesthetics and performance due, among other things, to its viscosity that is between about 7,000 centipoise (cps) to about 25,000 cps at 25 degrees C.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Antiperspirant/deodorant compositions are commonly applied to the skin at the underarms to prevent or alleviate sweating and/or odor. Such compositions take a variety of physical forms such as a stick, gel, cream, roll-on liquid, pump spray and aerosol spray.
A popular form of an antiperspirant/deodorant composition is the gel. Gels can be made transparent (clear), translucent, or opaque. Clear gel compositions are particularly aesthetically pleasing to consumers. Conventional clear gel compositions typically take the form of water-in-silicone emulsions with an antiperspirant active.
A problem commonly encountered with antiperspirant/deodorant gel compositions is stiffness. When a gel composition is stiff, it does not spread easily on the skin. When applied by a user, coverage on the skin may be non-uniform. Non-uniformity of coverage reduces the evaporation rate of volatiles, which can cause a tacky or sticky feel on the skin. Also, the gel composition may be slow to dry.
The prior art sets forth 3 variety of antiperspirant/deodorant compositions. They include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,122,029; 4,268,499; 4,363,988; 4,673,570; 4,719,103; 4,725,431; 4,782,095; 4,944,938; 4,948,938; 5,162,378; 5,393,518; 5,449,511; 5,492,691; 5,520,907; 5,587,153; 5,925,338; 5,939,055 and 6,063,365.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,673,570 relates to clear gel compositions having a silicone emulsifier with a viscosity of 600 centipoise (cps) to 2,000 cps. U.S. Pat. No. 5,393,518 provides an antiperspirant composition having cyclomethicone, aluminum zirconium tetrahydrochoride and dimethicone copolyol, with a viscosity less than 1,000 cps. U.S. Pat. No. 5,587,153 relates to clear gel compositions in the form of a water in silicone emulsion. The composition has a viscosity of 50,000 cps to 200,000 cps, a clarity of 50 nephelomedric turbidity units (NTU) or less, and a refractive index of 1.3975 to 1.4025. U.S. Pat. No. 5,925,338 relates to gel compositions in the form of water-in-silicone emulsions of a viscosity of 50,000 cps to 250,000 cps.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,449,511 is directed to anhydrous, solid antiperspirant compositions having 48.1% cyclomethicone, 22.7% aluminum zirconium tetrahydrochoride and 5% dimethicone copolyol.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,063,365 provides a gel composition having aluminum chlorohydrate, dimethicone, cyclomethicone, dimethicone copolyol, and water.
The gel compositions of the prior art are too stiff to effectively apply uniformly to the skin to enhance antiperspirant/deodorant efficacy. It would be desirable to have a gel composition that could be applied uniformly.
It would further be desirable to have a gel composition that provided enhanced antiperspirant activity. The prior art has discussed the use of formaldehyde as an antiperspirant active. U.S. Pat. No. 4,263,274 provides that formaldehyde has anhydrotic properties but is not useful due to strong odor, irritating effects on the skin and/or high skin permeability or skin staining. U.S. Pat. No. 5,508,024 provides that aldehydes, such as formaldehyde, can suppress sweating but that their sensitization potential has prevented commercialization. Antiperspirants and Deodorants, Marcel Dekker, p.108-109, (1988) points out that formaldehyde is an effective antiperspirant but that it has not been commercialized due to its sensitizing capability. U.S. Pat. No. 4,605,554 provides roll-on liquid or powder antiperspirant/deodorant compositions. Formaldehyde donors are disclosed as deodorant chemicals. No antiperspirant activity is disclosed.
It would be desirable to have an antiperspirant/deodorant gel composition that delivers formaldehyde as an antiperspirant active. It would be desirable to have such a gel composition that delivers formaldehyde without undue skin sensitization.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a gel composition that affords excellent antiperspirant and/or deodorant protection from bodily sweating and/or odor.
It is another object of the present invention to provide such a gel composition that is substantially clear and aesthetically appealing.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide such a gel composition that is soft to the touch yet provides excellent coverage and physical integrity at the surface of the skin, particularly the underarms.
It is still a further object of the present invention to provide a method of decreasing perspiration from human skin comprising applying to the skin the clear antiperspirant/deodorant gel composition described above.
These and further objects and advantages of the present invention are achieved by a clear antiperspirant/deodorant gel composition that takes the form of a water-in-oil emulsion having a viscosity of about 7,000 cps to about 25,000 cps.
The gel composition may also include a formaldehyde donor as an antiperspirant active or as an antiperspirant enhancer, and may deliver such formaldehyde donor in a manner that the skin is substantially not sensitized or irritated.
It was surprising that an antiperspirant/deodorant gel composition could be formulated that could be easily and uniformly spread on the skin, yet dry quickly. It was also surprising that such gel composition could be formulated to feel soft and provide excellent antiperspirant activity. It was still further surprising that such gel composition could be formulated to appear clear and aesthetically pleasing.
The gel composition of the present invention takes the form of a water-in-oil emulsion, preferably a water-in-silicone emulsion. The composition has a viscosity from about 7,000 centipoise (cps) to about 25,000 cps. Also, the composition preferably exhibits a clarity from about 30 NTU or less. The gel composition further has about 5 percentage by weight (wt. %) to about 50 wt. % of an antiperspirant active, about 25 wt. % to about 45 wt. % water, about 0.1 wt. % or more of a silicone gelling agent, and about 9.0 wt. % or more of one or more silicone oils, based upon the total weight of the composition.
An important aspect of the present invention is the viscosity of the gel composition. Viscosity of the gel composition is important in imparting desired physical properties and feel to the skin. If viscosity is too high, the gel composition is too stiff and may be difficult to spread uniformly on the skin. Non-uniform application decreases efficacy and increases the amount of time required for volatiles to evaporate. Slow evaporation results in longer drying time. In general, high viscosity can result in the gel composition feeling wet and sticky to the consumer for an unacceptably long period of time. If viscosity is too low, the gel composition will feel wet and sticky to the user for an even unacceptably longer period of time, probably due to a very high oil content.
In the present invention, it has been discovered that a gel composition having a viscosity range from about 7,000 cps to about 30,000 cps, preferably to about 25,000 cps, more preferably from about 12,000 cps to about 21,000 cps, and most preferably from about 18,000 cps to about 21,000 cps, provides significantly improved physical properties and characteristics. Such viscosity is low enough to facilitate excellent spreading and uniform coverage on the skin, yet is high enough to avoid an excessive oil content.
The present gel composition has an antiperspirant active to reduce body sweating and, consequently, odor. Preferably, the antiperspirant active is present in the gel composition from about 5 wt. % to about 50 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. More preferably, the antiperspirant active is present from about 15 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. Antiperspirant actives that can be used in the present composition include, but are not limited to, aluminum chlorohydrate; aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrate, tetrachlorohydrate, pentachlorohydrate, and octachlorohydrate; aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex-gly, tetrachloroydrex-gly, and pentachlorohydrex-gly, and octachlorohydrex-gly; and calcium chloride and other metal halide salts capable of reducing body sweating.
The present invention preferably includes in the gel composition a substantial amount of water. The amount of water may range from about 25 wt. % to about 45 wt. % of the total weight of the composition. The relatively high water content enables the proportion of glycols and silicone oils in the gel composition to be reduced. In addition to saving on ingredient cost, namely less of the more expensive glycol versus water, the reduced glycol content facilitates the evaporation of the volatile silicone and the water.
It was very surprising to find that the composition of the present invention was able to comprise a relatively high amount of water, yet have excellent physical integrity of the gel, feel soft to the touch, be substantially transparent, apply uniformly, and have improved antiperspirant efficacy.
The present gel composition also has a silicone emulsifier that acts as a gelling agent and one or more volatile and/or non-volatile silicone oils. Silicone gelling agents provide a gel matrix and bulk for the gel composition. The gelling agents act as emulsifiers in forming the water into silicone emulsions or gels. The silicone oils function to thicken and soften the gel composition and provide softening and conditioning effects to the skin.
The silicone gelling agent is present in the gel composition at about 0.1 wt. % or more, and preferably about 0.5 wt. % to about 5.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. More preferably, the silicone gelling agent is about 0.5 wt. % to about 1.5 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition.
Silicone gelling agents that can be used in the composition of the present invention include, but are not limited to, dimethicone copolyol (polyether substituted dimethicone), laurylmethicone copolyol, cetyl dimethicone copolyol and stearyl dimethicone copolyol. Dimethicone copolyol is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,122,029, which is incorporated herein by reference. The preferred silicone gelling agent, dimethicone copolyol, is a mixture of 10% dimethicone copolyol and 90% cyclomethicone. The former acts as a gelling agent, while the latter acts as a solvent.
The silicone oils used in the present composition typically have boiling points below about 250xc2x0 C.
Such silicone oils include volatile silicone oils, such as cyclomethicone (pentamer is preferred; tetramer; hexamer; and mixtures thereof) and dimethicone having a viscosity of about 0.65 to about 2 centistokes. Non-volatile silicone oils that can be used in the present composition include high molecular weight polysiloxanes, high viscosity linear dimethicones, namely from about 5 to about 100,000 ceritistokes, phenyl trimethicone cetyl dimethicone and stearyl dimethicone. The preferred range for the silicone oil is from about 9 wt % to about 30 wt %, based on the total weight of the composition.
A preferred combination of a volatile silicone oil and a silicone gelling agent is a cyclometriicone/dimethicone copolyol blend. This blend is sold commercially as DC 5225C and DC 3225C by Dow Corning Corporation as a 90/10 by weight blend. The blend is also commercially available under the trade names SF 1528 from General Electric Silicones.
The gel composition may have non-silicone co-gelling agents or thickeners, if desired. Such co-gelling agents include: cellulose derivatives, such as carboxymethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and hydroxyethylcellulose; carrageenan gum; xanthan gum; tragacanth gum; caraya gum; gum arabic; polysodium acrylate; and, polyvinyl pyrrolidone. A preferred co-gelling agent is a cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose. The preferred cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose is Polyquaternium-10, and is sold by National Starch. The co-gelling agent may be used together with or in place of the silicone gelling agent.
The emulsion of the present gel composition can be formulated with any emulsifier or surfactant known in the art as useful in water-in-oil emulsions. Such emulsifiers and surfactants that can be used in the present invention include, but are not limited to, Steareth-2, Steareth-20, PPG 5-Ceteth-20 and POE (20M) Sorbitan Monolaurate. Additional useful emulsifiers, co-emulsifiers, and surfactants are provided in U.S. Pat. No. 5,162,378 (column 4), which is incorporated herein by reference.
The present gel composition may be formulated to exhibit a high degree of clarity by means known to those skilled in the art. Clarity can be characterized on the basis of turbidity and/or index of refraction.
The present gel composition preferably exhibits clarity from about 5 nephelomedric turbidity units (NTU) to about 30 NTU, and more preferably about 10 NTU to about 20 NTU. The present gel composition also preferably exhibits an index of refraction from about 1.39 to about 1.41, and preferably 1.399 to 1.405. Refractive index modifiers can be added to either or both of the oil or water phases to modify index of refraction. Preferably, the oil and water phases of the gel composition exhibit indices of refraction within 0.0004 of each other to provide a preferred level of overall clarity to the composition.
Representative refractive index modifiers together with their respective indices of refraction are listed in the Table below. The listing also includes colorants, which may be added to gel compositions to modify refractive index, mask off colors of antiperspirant actives or other ingredients, or provide a desired product color for aesthetic appeal. The listing is representative and not to be construed as limiting.
Both turbidity and refractive index impact the overall clarity of the present composition, but do not account for the improved aesthetic feel of the composition on one""s skin.
In a preferred embodiment, the gel composition has a formaldehyde donor therein. The formaldehyde donor functions both as a preservative and as an antiperspirant in the gel composition. Formaldehyde donors are known in the cosmetic and personal care product art as being useful in preservative or antimicrobial applications. However, heretofore they have not been appreciated as commercially practical antiperspirant actives. In the present invention, it was unexpectedly found that formaldehyde donors exhibited significant antiperspirant activity in a gel composition. The gradual release of formaldehyde by the donors permits bodily sweating to be reduced while substantially avoiding the skin sensitization problems normally encountered when significant amounts of formaldehyde are directly utilized in the composition.
Formaldehyde donors useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, diazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, Quaternium-15 (Dowicil 200) and a combination thereof. Formaldehyde donors can also serve as enhancers for conventional antiperspirant actives such as those described above in the present gel composition, or other product forms such as sticks, creams, emulsions, sprays and roll-ons.
It is understood that the present gel composition may optionally contain other ingredients, such as one or more analgesics, antibacterials, antlmicrobials, anti-allergenics, chelating agents, colorants, fragrances, lubricants, moisturizers, preservatives, skin protectants, stabilizers, sunscreens, surfactants, vitamins, and the like.


A system for securing a vehicle during transport comprises in combination a vehicle having a frame with at least one deformation zone, multiple tie-downs affixed to the frame at spaced-apart locations, a supporting surface with multiple anchor points at spaced-apart locations, and multiple ties extending between each tie-down and a respective anchor point. Each front and rear side of the frame has at least two tie-downs, and each left and right side of the frame has at least one tie-down. At least two anchor points are located on the supporting surface outwardly from each side of the vehicle. Each tie extends between one tie-down and a respective anchor point at a corresponding side of the vehicle. The ties are selectively arranged in relation to one another to retain the vehicle substantially against movement on the supporting surface but without deforming the deformation zone of the vehicle frame.

Automotive vehicles are often transported from one location to another via truck, ship or aircraft, but regardless of the mode of transportation, a common requirement is that the vehicle must be carefully secured against movement during shipment. For that purpose, vehicles are typically equipped with securement locations, commonly referred to as "tie-downs", usually on a frame structure of the vehicle, to which restraint devices may be attached and in turn secured to a structural member of the transport vehicle, such as a floor surface.
As automotive safety technology has advanced in recent years, automotive engineers have learned that increased rigidity and strength of vehicle frame and body components does not necessarily promote or insure the safety of vehicle passengers and occupants, but to the contrary can be harmful to the extent that forces exerted on a vehicle in a crash or other accident can be transmitted unabated directly to occupants by a rigid vehicle structure. Accordingly, it has become commonplace for vehicle designs to include frame and body components designed to deform under forces generated in an accident, usually referred to as "crumple zones," intended to absorb such forces and thereby mitigate the forces imposed on vehicle occupants. However, such deformation or crumple zones present potential issues in transporting vehicles as tie-down systems can potentially impose deformation to the frame or body components if the tie-down forces are too great.
The transportation of military vehicles via military aircraft presents even greater concerns in avoiding potential frame damage to the vehicles via tie-down systems as military specifications, e.g., U.S. Department of Defense Specifications MIL-STD-209 and MIL-STD 814, call for tie-down systems to withstand substantial forces, e.g., acceleration, deceleration, and centrifugal forces, that may occur during flight. Military vehicles are typically manufactured with reinforced structural frames that do not include crumple or deformation zones, and therefore are less subject to potential damage under such high tie-down forces. Various vehicles could offer advantages if adapted for military use, but would almost certainly fail to meet the aforementioned tie-down standards.
Accordingly, a need exists for an improved system for tie-down of vehicles during transport from one location to another, by which greater securement tie-down forces could be applied without damaging frame crumple zones in vehicles. In turn, such an improved tie-down system could greatly expand the possibilities for military adaptation of vehicles not originally built for military purposes.

System for securing a vehicle during transport against movement under forces from multiple directions

Hendrick Motorsports Performance Group, LLC


This invention provides novel methods for the formation of biocompatible membranes around biological materials using photopolymerization of water soluble molecules. The membranes can be used as a covering to encapsulate biological materials or biomedical devices, as a “glue” to cause more than one biological substance to adhere together, or as carriers for biologically active species. Several methods for forming these membranes are provided. Each of these methods utilizes a polymerization system containing water-soluble macromers, species, which are at once polymers and macromolecules capable of further polymerization. The macromers are polymerized using a photoinitiator (such as a dye), optionally a cocatalyst, optionally an accelerator, and radiation in the form of visible or long wavelength UV light. The reaction occurs either by suspension polymerization or by interfacial polymerization. The polymer membrane can be formed directly on the surface of the biological material, or it can be formed on material, which is already encapsulated.

Microencapsulation technology holds promise in many areas of medicine. For example, some important applications are treatment of diabetes (Goosen, et al., 1985), production of biologically important chemicals (Omata, et al., 1979), evaluation of anti-human immunodeficiency virus drugs (McMahon, et al., 1990), encapsulation of hemoglobin for red blood cell substitutes, and controlled release of drugs. During encapsulation using prior methods, cells are often exposed to processing conditions, which are potentially cytotoxic. These conditions include heat, organic solvents and non-physiological pH, which can kill or functionally impair cells. Proteins are often exposed to conditions that are potentially denaturing and can result in loss of biological activity.
Further, even if cells survive processing conditions, the stringent requirements of encapsulating polymers for biocompatibility, chemical stability, immunoprotection and resistance to cellular overgrowth, restrict the applicability of prior art methods. For example, the encapsulating method based on ionic crosslinking of alginate (a polyanion) with polylysine or polyornithine (polycation) (Goosen, et al., 1985) offers relatively mild encapsulating conditions, but the long-term mechanical and chemical stability of such ionically crosslinked polymers remains doubtful. Moreover, these polymers when implanted in vivo, are susceptible to cellular overgrowth (McMahon, et al., 1990), which restricts the permeability of the microcapsule to nutrients, metabolites, and transport proteins from the surroundings. This has been seen to possibly lead to starvation and death of encapsulated islets of Langerhans cells (O'Shea et al., 1986).
Thus, there is a need for a relatively mild cell encapsulation method, which offers control over properties of the encapsulating polymer. The membranes must be non-toxically produced in the presence of cells, with the qualities of being permselective, chemically stable, and very highly biocompatible. A similar need exists for the encapsulation of biological materials other than cells and tissues.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Gels for encapsulation of biological materials

Board of Regents, The University of Texas System