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341,300 | 16,801,562 | 3,652 | Aspects of this disclosure relate to an antenna array system and method of calibration using power and/or phase detectors equidistant between transmit paths of antenna array channels, and using power and/or phase detectors equidistant between receive paths of antenna array channels. In some aspects, the antenna array can calibrate the power and/or phase detectors based on a common signal transmitted from an output of a transmit path and/or an output of a receive path of a channel. In some aspects, the antenna array can calibrate receive and transmit paths across antenna array chips. | 1. A system for calibration of channels in an antenna array, wherein the channels are configured to perform beamforming operations, the system comprising:
a power divider configured to transmit a first and a second signal to a first and a second channel, respectively; a first beamformer integrated circuit comprising:
two or more channels including:
a first channel configured to receive the first signal from the power divider, propagate the first signal within a transmit path of the first channel, and output a first output signal; and
a second channel configured to receive the second signal from the power divider, propagate the second signal within a transmit path of the second channel, and output a second output signal;
a first coupler configured to couple the first output signal to a first power detector;
a second coupler configured to couple the second output signal to the first power detector;
the first power detector configured to receive the coupled first and second output signals and output a first and second power value, respectively, wherein the first power detector is disposed equidistant from the first and second couplers; and
a digital signal processor configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second power values. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a third coupler configured to couple a third output signal of a receive path of the first channel; a fourth coupler configured to couple a fourth output signal of a receive path of the second channel; and a second power detector configured to receive the coupled third and fourth output signals and output a third and fourth power value, respectively, wherein the second power detector is disposed equidistant from the third and fourth couplers, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the receive paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the third and fourth power values. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the system further comprises a first switch configured to connect the transmit path with the receive path of the first channel and a second switch configured to connect the transmit path with the receive path of the second channel. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the first coupler is further configured to transmit the coupled first output signal to a first phase detector; and the second coupler is further configured to transmit the coupled second output signal to the first phase detector, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on phase values detected by the first phase detector. 5. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a third coupler configured to couple a third output signal of a transmit path of the second channel; a fourth coupler configured to couple a fourth output signal of a transmit path of a third channel; and a second power detector configured to receive the coupled third and fourth output signals and output a third and fourth power value, respectively, wherein the second power detector is disposed equidistant from the third and fourth couplers, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first, second, and third channels relative to each other based on the first, second, third, and fourth power values. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the first channel comprises a first phase shifter and a first variable gain amplifier, and the second channel comprises a second phase shifter and a second variable gain amplifier. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises:
a third coupler configured to couple the second output signal and transmit the coupled second output signal to a second power detector; and the second power detector configured to receive the coupled second output signal and output a third power value, respectively, wherein the output of the transmit path is disposed equidistant from the first power detector and the second power detector, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the first and second power detectors relative to each other based on the second and third power values. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises:
a second beamformer integrated circuit comprising:
a third channel configured to receive a third signal from the power divider, propagate the third signal within a transmit path of the third channel, and output a third output signal; and
a third coupler configured to couple the third output signal and transmit the coupled third output signal to a second power detector; and
the second power detector configured to receive the coupled third output signal from the third coupler and a coupled fourth output signal from the second coupler configured to couple the first output signal of the transmit path of the first channel, and output a third and fourth power value, respectively, wherein the second power detector is disposed equidistant from the second and third couplers, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and third channels relative to each other based on the second and third power values. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and third channels relative to each other based on a difference between the second power value and an input signal to the power divider, and a difference between the third power value and the input signal to the power divider. 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and third channels relative to each other based on a difference between the second power value and the third power value. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the power divider is further configured to divide a reference signal into the first and second signals. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein to calibrate the transmit paths comprises adjusting a first amplifier corresponding to the transmit path of the first channel to match an output power of the transmit path of the second channel. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein to calibrate the transmit paths comprises adjusting a first phase shifter corresponding to the transmit path of the first channel to match a phase of the transmit path of the second channel. 14. A method comprising:
providing a reference signal to a first channel of a beamformer; coupling a first output signal of the first channel to generate a first coupled signal; measuring, by a power detector, a first power value of the first coupled signal; providing the reference signal to a second channel of a beamformer; coupling a second output signal of the second channel to generate a second coupled signal; measuring, by the power detector, a second power value of the second coupled signal; and determining calibration data for the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second power values. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
coupling a third output signal of a receive path of the first channel; coupling a fourth output signal of a receive path of the second channel; and determining calibration data for the receive paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the coupled third and fourth output signals. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
measuring, by a first phase detector, a first phase value of the first coupled signal; measuring, by a second phase detector, a second phase value of the second coupled signal; and determining calibration data for the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second phase values. 17. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
coupling a third output signal of a transmit path of the second channel; coupling a fourth output signal of a transmit path of a third channel; and determining calibration data for the transmit paths of the first, second, and third channels relative to each other based on the coupled first, second, third, and fourth output signals. 18. The method of claim 14, wherein the first channel comprises a first phase shifter and a first variable gain amplifier, and the second channel comprises a second phase shifter and a second variable gain amplifier. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:
calibrating the transmit path by adjusting a gain of the first variable gain amplifier or the second variable gain amplifier. 20. A system for calibration of channels in an antenna array, wherein the channels are configured to perform beamforming operations, the system comprising:
a power divider configured to transmit a first and a second signal to a first and a second channel, respectively; a beamformer integrated circuit comprising:
two or more channels including:
a first channel configured to receive the first signal from the power divider, propagate the first signal within a transmit path of the first channel, and output a first output signal; and
a second channel configured to receive the second signal from the power divider, propagate the second signal within a transmit path of the second channel, and output a second output signal;
a first coupler configured to couple the first output signal to a phase detector;
a second coupler configured to couple the second output signal to the phase detector; and
the phase detector configured to receive the coupled first and second output signals and output a first and second phase value, respectively, wherein the phase detector is disposed equidistant from the first and second couplers; and
a digital signal processor configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second phase values. | Aspects of this disclosure relate to an antenna array system and method of calibration using power and/or phase detectors equidistant between transmit paths of antenna array channels, and using power and/or phase detectors equidistant between receive paths of antenna array channels. In some aspects, the antenna array can calibrate the power and/or phase detectors based on a common signal transmitted from an output of a transmit path and/or an output of a receive path of a channel. In some aspects, the antenna array can calibrate receive and transmit paths across antenna array chips.1. A system for calibration of channels in an antenna array, wherein the channels are configured to perform beamforming operations, the system comprising:
a power divider configured to transmit a first and a second signal to a first and a second channel, respectively; a first beamformer integrated circuit comprising:
two or more channels including:
a first channel configured to receive the first signal from the power divider, propagate the first signal within a transmit path of the first channel, and output a first output signal; and
a second channel configured to receive the second signal from the power divider, propagate the second signal within a transmit path of the second channel, and output a second output signal;
a first coupler configured to couple the first output signal to a first power detector;
a second coupler configured to couple the second output signal to the first power detector;
the first power detector configured to receive the coupled first and second output signals and output a first and second power value, respectively, wherein the first power detector is disposed equidistant from the first and second couplers; and
a digital signal processor configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second power values. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a third coupler configured to couple a third output signal of a receive path of the first channel; a fourth coupler configured to couple a fourth output signal of a receive path of the second channel; and a second power detector configured to receive the coupled third and fourth output signals and output a third and fourth power value, respectively, wherein the second power detector is disposed equidistant from the third and fourth couplers, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the receive paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the third and fourth power values. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the system further comprises a first switch configured to connect the transmit path with the receive path of the first channel and a second switch configured to connect the transmit path with the receive path of the second channel. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the first coupler is further configured to transmit the coupled first output signal to a first phase detector; and the second coupler is further configured to transmit the coupled second output signal to the first phase detector, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on phase values detected by the first phase detector. 5. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a third coupler configured to couple a third output signal of a transmit path of the second channel; a fourth coupler configured to couple a fourth output signal of a transmit path of a third channel; and a second power detector configured to receive the coupled third and fourth output signals and output a third and fourth power value, respectively, wherein the second power detector is disposed equidistant from the third and fourth couplers, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first, second, and third channels relative to each other based on the first, second, third, and fourth power values. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the first channel comprises a first phase shifter and a first variable gain amplifier, and the second channel comprises a second phase shifter and a second variable gain amplifier. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises:
a third coupler configured to couple the second output signal and transmit the coupled second output signal to a second power detector; and the second power detector configured to receive the coupled second output signal and output a third power value, respectively, wherein the output of the transmit path is disposed equidistant from the first power detector and the second power detector, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the first and second power detectors relative to each other based on the second and third power values. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises:
a second beamformer integrated circuit comprising:
a third channel configured to receive a third signal from the power divider, propagate the third signal within a transmit path of the third channel, and output a third output signal; and
a third coupler configured to couple the third output signal and transmit the coupled third output signal to a second power detector; and
the second power detector configured to receive the coupled third output signal from the third coupler and a coupled fourth output signal from the second coupler configured to couple the first output signal of the transmit path of the first channel, and output a third and fourth power value, respectively, wherein the second power detector is disposed equidistant from the second and third couplers, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and third channels relative to each other based on the second and third power values. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and third channels relative to each other based on a difference between the second power value and an input signal to the power divider, and a difference between the third power value and the input signal to the power divider. 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the digital signal processor is further configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and third channels relative to each other based on a difference between the second power value and the third power value. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the power divider is further configured to divide a reference signal into the first and second signals. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein to calibrate the transmit paths comprises adjusting a first amplifier corresponding to the transmit path of the first channel to match an output power of the transmit path of the second channel. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein to calibrate the transmit paths comprises adjusting a first phase shifter corresponding to the transmit path of the first channel to match a phase of the transmit path of the second channel. 14. A method comprising:
providing a reference signal to a first channel of a beamformer; coupling a first output signal of the first channel to generate a first coupled signal; measuring, by a power detector, a first power value of the first coupled signal; providing the reference signal to a second channel of a beamformer; coupling a second output signal of the second channel to generate a second coupled signal; measuring, by the power detector, a second power value of the second coupled signal; and determining calibration data for the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second power values. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
coupling a third output signal of a receive path of the first channel; coupling a fourth output signal of a receive path of the second channel; and determining calibration data for the receive paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the coupled third and fourth output signals. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
measuring, by a first phase detector, a first phase value of the first coupled signal; measuring, by a second phase detector, a second phase value of the second coupled signal; and determining calibration data for the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second phase values. 17. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
coupling a third output signal of a transmit path of the second channel; coupling a fourth output signal of a transmit path of a third channel; and determining calibration data for the transmit paths of the first, second, and third channels relative to each other based on the coupled first, second, third, and fourth output signals. 18. The method of claim 14, wherein the first channel comprises a first phase shifter and a first variable gain amplifier, and the second channel comprises a second phase shifter and a second variable gain amplifier. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:
calibrating the transmit path by adjusting a gain of the first variable gain amplifier or the second variable gain amplifier. 20. A system for calibration of channels in an antenna array, wherein the channels are configured to perform beamforming operations, the system comprising:
a power divider configured to transmit a first and a second signal to a first and a second channel, respectively; a beamformer integrated circuit comprising:
two or more channels including:
a first channel configured to receive the first signal from the power divider, propagate the first signal within a transmit path of the first channel, and output a first output signal; and
a second channel configured to receive the second signal from the power divider, propagate the second signal within a transmit path of the second channel, and output a second output signal;
a first coupler configured to couple the first output signal to a phase detector;
a second coupler configured to couple the second output signal to the phase detector; and
the phase detector configured to receive the coupled first and second output signals and output a first and second phase value, respectively, wherein the phase detector is disposed equidistant from the first and second couplers; and
a digital signal processor configured to calibrate the transmit paths of the first and second channels relative to each other based on the first and second phase values. | 3,600 |
341,301 | 16,801,615 | 3,652 | An iron has a heel on which the iron can rest during inactive ironing phases, an internal reservoir, a fill opening fluidly connected to the internal reservoir, a fill opening cover movable between a closed position and an open position, a seal configured to seal the fill opening when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, and a vent which is fluidly connected to the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position. The seal includes a barrier part extending into the internal reservoir, and a ventilation orifice which is fluidly connected to the vent, and which opens into the internal reservoir, the barrier part and the ventilation orifice being configured so as to prevent liquid from flowing from the internal reservoir and through the vent when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel. | 1. An iron comprising:
a case equipped with a heel located in a rear part of the case and on which the iron is configured to rest during inactive ironing phases; an internal reservoir; a fill opening fluidly connected to the internal reservoir and opening into a front surface of the case of the iron; a fill opening cover movable between a closed position in which the fill opening cover covers the fill opening and an open position in which the fill opening cover at least partially exposes the fill opening; a seal comprising a mounting part fixed to the fill opening cover and a sealing part configured to seal the fill opening when the fill opening cover is in the closed position; and a vent provided on the fill opening cover, the vent opening to the outside of the iron and in fluid connection with the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, wherein the seal includes a barrier part extending into the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, and a ventilation orifice fluidly connected to the vent and opening into the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, wherein the barrier part and the orifice ventilation are configured to prevent liquid from flowing from the internal reservoir and through the vent when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron is resting on the heel. 2. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the barrier part and the ventilation orifice are configured to prevent liquid from flowing from the internal reservoir and through the ventilation orifice when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel. 3. The iron according to claim 1, wherein, when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, the ventilation orifice is oriented substantially opposite the heel. 4. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation orifice is oriented in a first direction and the vent is oriented in a second direction transverse to the first direction. 5. The iron according to claim 1, wherein, when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel, the outlet of the ventilation orifice is located at a height higher than that of the vent. 6. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the seal has an internal cavity fluidly connected to the vent, the ventilation orifice opening into the internal cavity. 7. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the barrier part has a side wall extending from the sealing part and in a direction of the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, and a barrier wall extending from the side wall and transversely to the side wall. 8. The iron according to claim 7, wherein the barrier part is tubular, and the barrier wall forms an end wall of the barrier part. 9. The iron according to claim 7, wherein the barrier wall comprises a barrier edge which is opposite to the heel of the iron and which is located at a height greater than a maximum liquid level in the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel. 10. The iron according to claim 9, wherein the ventilation orifice is contiguous with the barrier edge of the barrier wall. | An iron has a heel on which the iron can rest during inactive ironing phases, an internal reservoir, a fill opening fluidly connected to the internal reservoir, a fill opening cover movable between a closed position and an open position, a seal configured to seal the fill opening when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, and a vent which is fluidly connected to the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position. The seal includes a barrier part extending into the internal reservoir, and a ventilation orifice which is fluidly connected to the vent, and which opens into the internal reservoir, the barrier part and the ventilation orifice being configured so as to prevent liquid from flowing from the internal reservoir and through the vent when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel.1. An iron comprising:
a case equipped with a heel located in a rear part of the case and on which the iron is configured to rest during inactive ironing phases; an internal reservoir; a fill opening fluidly connected to the internal reservoir and opening into a front surface of the case of the iron; a fill opening cover movable between a closed position in which the fill opening cover covers the fill opening and an open position in which the fill opening cover at least partially exposes the fill opening; a seal comprising a mounting part fixed to the fill opening cover and a sealing part configured to seal the fill opening when the fill opening cover is in the closed position; and a vent provided on the fill opening cover, the vent opening to the outside of the iron and in fluid connection with the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, wherein the seal includes a barrier part extending into the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, and a ventilation orifice fluidly connected to the vent and opening into the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, wherein the barrier part and the orifice ventilation are configured to prevent liquid from flowing from the internal reservoir and through the vent when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron is resting on the heel. 2. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the barrier part and the ventilation orifice are configured to prevent liquid from flowing from the internal reservoir and through the ventilation orifice when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel. 3. The iron according to claim 1, wherein, when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, the ventilation orifice is oriented substantially opposite the heel. 4. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation orifice is oriented in a first direction and the vent is oriented in a second direction transverse to the first direction. 5. The iron according to claim 1, wherein, when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel, the outlet of the ventilation orifice is located at a height higher than that of the vent. 6. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the seal has an internal cavity fluidly connected to the vent, the ventilation orifice opening into the internal cavity. 7. The iron according to claim 1, wherein the barrier part has a side wall extending from the sealing part and in a direction of the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position, and a barrier wall extending from the side wall and transversely to the side wall. 8. The iron according to claim 7, wherein the barrier part is tubular, and the barrier wall forms an end wall of the barrier part. 9. The iron according to claim 7, wherein the barrier wall comprises a barrier edge which is opposite to the heel of the iron and which is located at a height greater than a maximum liquid level in the internal reservoir when the fill opening cover is in the closed position and the iron rests on the heel. 10. The iron according to claim 9, wherein the ventilation orifice is contiguous with the barrier edge of the barrier wall. | 3,600 |
341,302 | 16,801,632 | 3,652 | A method is devised of deploying a network configuration in a datacenter. The network configuration includes one of more points of interconnection, a point of presence of the datacenter being one of the one or more points of interconnection. Each of the one or more points of interconnection in the network configuration is modeled through objects comprising, for each given point of interconnection, a node object representing the point of interconnection, an interface object hierarchically inferior to the node object and representing a connection to the point of interconnection, an evpnEdge object representing the transport to/from of the point of interconnection in the network, and a layer object hierarchically inferior to the evpnEdge object, and representing the characteristics of the protocol of transport to/from the point of interconnection. The network configuration is set up by a succession of commands on the objects and then pushed to the datacenter. | 1. A method of deploying a network configuration in a datacenter, the network configuration including one of more points of interconnection, a point of presence of the datacenter being one of the one or more points of interconnection, the method comprising the steps of:
modelling each of the one or more points of interconnection in the network configuration through objects, the objects for a given point of interconnection comprising:
a node object representing the given point of interconnection,
an interface object being hierarchically inferior to the node object and representing a connection to the given point of interconnection,
an evpnEdge object representing the transport to/from of the given point of interconnection in the network, and
a layer object being hierarchically inferior to the evpnEdge object, and representing the characteristics of the protocol of transport to/from the given point of interconnection;
setting up the network configuration by a succession of commands on the objects; and pushing the set up network configuration to the datacenter. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the commands on the objects are REST API calls applied on the objects. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the pushing step is performed after a number of commands that is less than the total number of commands involved in the succession of commands on the objects. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer object is adapted for a Layer 2 protocol to be the protocol of transport. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer object is adapted for a Layer 3 protocol to be the protocol of transport. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the protocol of transport is VxLAN. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the protocol of transport is MPLS. 8. A computer-implemented system configured to perform the method of claim 1. 9. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon machine executable instructions for performing, when executed by a processor, the method of claim 1. | A method is devised of deploying a network configuration in a datacenter. The network configuration includes one of more points of interconnection, a point of presence of the datacenter being one of the one or more points of interconnection. Each of the one or more points of interconnection in the network configuration is modeled through objects comprising, for each given point of interconnection, a node object representing the point of interconnection, an interface object hierarchically inferior to the node object and representing a connection to the point of interconnection, an evpnEdge object representing the transport to/from of the point of interconnection in the network, and a layer object hierarchically inferior to the evpnEdge object, and representing the characteristics of the protocol of transport to/from the point of interconnection. The network configuration is set up by a succession of commands on the objects and then pushed to the datacenter.1. A method of deploying a network configuration in a datacenter, the network configuration including one of more points of interconnection, a point of presence of the datacenter being one of the one or more points of interconnection, the method comprising the steps of:
modelling each of the one or more points of interconnection in the network configuration through objects, the objects for a given point of interconnection comprising:
a node object representing the given point of interconnection,
an interface object being hierarchically inferior to the node object and representing a connection to the given point of interconnection,
an evpnEdge object representing the transport to/from of the given point of interconnection in the network, and
a layer object being hierarchically inferior to the evpnEdge object, and representing the characteristics of the protocol of transport to/from the given point of interconnection;
setting up the network configuration by a succession of commands on the objects; and pushing the set up network configuration to the datacenter. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the commands on the objects are REST API calls applied on the objects. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the pushing step is performed after a number of commands that is less than the total number of commands involved in the succession of commands on the objects. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer object is adapted for a Layer 2 protocol to be the protocol of transport. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer object is adapted for a Layer 3 protocol to be the protocol of transport. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the protocol of transport is VxLAN. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the protocol of transport is MPLS. 8. A computer-implemented system configured to perform the method of claim 1. 9. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon machine executable instructions for performing, when executed by a processor, the method of claim 1. | 3,600 |
341,303 | 16,801,629 | 3,652 | A vehicle control apparatus comprises a first detection unit configured to have a first detection range, a second detection unit configured to have a second detection range which at least partially overlaps the first detection range, and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of performing vehicle control based on a first control state and vehicle control based on a second control state which has a high vehicle control automation rate or a reduced degree of vehicle operation participation requested to a driver compared to the first control state. The vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the first control state to the second control state based on a condition that a match degree between pieces of preceding object information of a vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit. | 1. A vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle based on a plurality of control states, comprising:
a first detection unit configured to have a first detection range; a second detection unit configured to have a second detection range which at least partially overlaps the first detection range; and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of performing, as vehicle control based on a plurality of control states, vehicle control based on a first control state and vehicle control based on a second control state which has a high vehicle control automation rate or a reduced degree of vehicle operation participation requested to a driver compared to the first control state, wherein the vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the first control state to the second control state based on a condition that a match degree between pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit is not less than a threshold. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in a case in which the first detection unit and the second detection unit have detected, for a predetermined first period, the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is not less than the threshold, the vehicle control unit performs vehicle control by shifting the control state from the first control state to the second control state. 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first detection unit includes a first object detection unit configured to use light to detect an object in the periphery of the vehicle and a first image capturing unit configured to obtain an image of the front of the vehicle, and
the second detection unit includes a second object detection unit configured to use radio waves to detect the object in the periphery of the vehicle and a second image capturing unit configured to obtain an image of the front of the vehicle, and the first image capturing unit and the second image capturing unit of the first detection unit and the second detection unit, respectively, are of the same type. 4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein in the second control state, based on a condition that the match degree of the pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit is less than the predetermined threshold, the vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the second control state to the first control state. 5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein in the second control state, based on a condition that the match degree of the pieces of preceding object information becomes less than a predetermined threshold as a result of comparing the pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle obtained from the first object detection unit and the first image capturing unit or
based on a condition that the match degree of the pieces of preceding object information becomes less than the predetermined threshold as a result of comparing the pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle obtained from the second object detection unit and the second image capturing unit, the vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the second control state to the first control state. 6. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein in the second control state, in a case in which the first detection unit and the second detection unit have detected, for a predetermined second period, the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is less than the threshold, the vehicle control unit performs vehicle control by shifting the control state from the second control state to the first control state. 7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the preceding object information includes at least one of information of the type of a preceding vehicle, information of the position of the preceding vehicle, and information concerning whether the preceding vehicle has been detected. 8. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising:
a time measurement unit configured to measure time of a first period which is a predetermined threshold time, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is not less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the time measured by the time measurement unit is not less than the first period which is the threshold time, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the first control state to the second control state after the first period which is the threshold time has elapsed. 9. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising:
a distance obtainment unit configured to obtain a distance traveled by the vehicle in a first period which is a predetermined threshold distance, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is not less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the distance obtained by the distance obtainment unit is not less than the first period which is the threshold distance, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the first control state to the second control state after the first period which is the threshold distance has been traveled. 10. The apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising:
a time measurement unit configured to measure time of the second period which is a predetermined threshold time, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the time measured by the time measurement unit is not less than the second period which is the threshold time, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the second control state to the first control state after the second period which is the threshold time has elapsed. 11. The apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising:
a distance obtainment unit configured to obtain a distance traveled by the vehicle in the second period which is a predetermined threshold distance, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the distance obtained by the distance obtainment unit is not less than the second period which is the threshold distance, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the second control state to the first control state after the second period which is the threshold distance has been traveled. 12. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first period is set to be longer than the second period. 13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the vehicle control unit performs display control to cause a display unit to display a user interface for setting the first period and the second period. 14. A vehicle that can travel based on control by a vehicle control apparatus, comprising:
the vehicle control apparatus defined in claim 1. 15. A vehicle control method of a vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle based on a plurality of control states, including a first detection unit that has a first detection range, and a second detection unit that has a second detection range which at least partially overlaps the first detection range, the method comprising:
performing, as vehicle control based on a plurality of control states, vehicle control based on a first control state and vehicle control based on a second control state which has a high vehicle control automation rate or a reduced degree of vehicle operation participation requested to a driver compared to the first control state, wherein in the performing, control is performed to shift from the first control state to the second control state based on a condition that a match degree between pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit is not less than a threshold. 16. A storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute each step of a vehicle control method defined in claim 15. | A vehicle control apparatus comprises a first detection unit configured to have a first detection range, a second detection unit configured to have a second detection range which at least partially overlaps the first detection range, and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of performing vehicle control based on a first control state and vehicle control based on a second control state which has a high vehicle control automation rate or a reduced degree of vehicle operation participation requested to a driver compared to the first control state. The vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the first control state to the second control state based on a condition that a match degree between pieces of preceding object information of a vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit.1. A vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle based on a plurality of control states, comprising:
a first detection unit configured to have a first detection range; a second detection unit configured to have a second detection range which at least partially overlaps the first detection range; and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of performing, as vehicle control based on a plurality of control states, vehicle control based on a first control state and vehicle control based on a second control state which has a high vehicle control automation rate or a reduced degree of vehicle operation participation requested to a driver compared to the first control state, wherein the vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the first control state to the second control state based on a condition that a match degree between pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit is not less than a threshold. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in a case in which the first detection unit and the second detection unit have detected, for a predetermined first period, the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is not less than the threshold, the vehicle control unit performs vehicle control by shifting the control state from the first control state to the second control state. 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first detection unit includes a first object detection unit configured to use light to detect an object in the periphery of the vehicle and a first image capturing unit configured to obtain an image of the front of the vehicle, and
the second detection unit includes a second object detection unit configured to use radio waves to detect the object in the periphery of the vehicle and a second image capturing unit configured to obtain an image of the front of the vehicle, and the first image capturing unit and the second image capturing unit of the first detection unit and the second detection unit, respectively, are of the same type. 4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein in the second control state, based on a condition that the match degree of the pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit is less than the predetermined threshold, the vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the second control state to the first control state. 5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein in the second control state, based on a condition that the match degree of the pieces of preceding object information becomes less than a predetermined threshold as a result of comparing the pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle obtained from the first object detection unit and the first image capturing unit or
based on a condition that the match degree of the pieces of preceding object information becomes less than the predetermined threshold as a result of comparing the pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle obtained from the second object detection unit and the second image capturing unit, the vehicle control unit performs control to shift from the second control state to the first control state. 6. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein in the second control state, in a case in which the first detection unit and the second detection unit have detected, for a predetermined second period, the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is less than the threshold, the vehicle control unit performs vehicle control by shifting the control state from the second control state to the first control state. 7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the preceding object information includes at least one of information of the type of a preceding vehicle, information of the position of the preceding vehicle, and information concerning whether the preceding vehicle has been detected. 8. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising:
a time measurement unit configured to measure time of a first period which is a predetermined threshold time, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is not less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the time measured by the time measurement unit is not less than the first period which is the threshold time, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the first control state to the second control state after the first period which is the threshold time has elapsed. 9. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising:
a distance obtainment unit configured to obtain a distance traveled by the vehicle in a first period which is a predetermined threshold distance, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is not less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the distance obtained by the distance obtainment unit is not less than the first period which is the threshold distance, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the first control state to the second control state after the first period which is the threshold distance has been traveled. 10. The apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising:
a time measurement unit configured to measure time of the second period which is a predetermined threshold time, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the time measured by the time measurement unit is not less than the second period which is the threshold time, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the second control state to the first control state after the second period which is the threshold time has elapsed. 11. The apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising:
a distance obtainment unit configured to obtain a distance traveled by the vehicle in the second period which is a predetermined threshold distance, wherein in a case in which the pieces of preceding object information that have the match degree which is less than the threshold have been continuously detected until the distance obtained by the distance obtainment unit is not less than the second period which is the threshold distance, the vehicle control unit shifts the control state from the second control state to the first control state after the second period which is the threshold distance has been traveled. 12. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first period is set to be longer than the second period. 13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the vehicle control unit performs display control to cause a display unit to display a user interface for setting the first period and the second period. 14. A vehicle that can travel based on control by a vehicle control apparatus, comprising:
the vehicle control apparatus defined in claim 1. 15. A vehicle control method of a vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle based on a plurality of control states, including a first detection unit that has a first detection range, and a second detection unit that has a second detection range which at least partially overlaps the first detection range, the method comprising:
performing, as vehicle control based on a plurality of control states, vehicle control based on a first control state and vehicle control based on a second control state which has a high vehicle control automation rate or a reduced degree of vehicle operation participation requested to a driver compared to the first control state, wherein in the performing, control is performed to shift from the first control state to the second control state based on a condition that a match degree between pieces of preceding object information of the vehicle detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit is not less than a threshold. 16. A storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute each step of a vehicle control method defined in claim 15. | 3,600 |
341,304 | 16,801,618 | 3,652 | A passive optical network power meter includes at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to: determine an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; detect an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values; and identify an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. | 1. A method of determining an operating state of an optical network unit, the method comprising:
determining, at a passive optical network power meter, an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; detecting, at the passive optical network power meter, an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values; and identifying, at the passive optical network power meter, an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the operating state of the optical network unit is one of compliant or non-compliant relative to standard operating parameters associated with the optical network unit. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein
the standard operating parameters include a maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and a minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value for the optical network unit; the method further includes computing an optical modulation amplitude value for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on the optical modulation amplitude value, the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on whether the optical modulation amplitude value is between the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining, the detecting and the identifying are performed at the time of installation of the optical network unit at a subscriber premises. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the passive optical network power meter during the fourth time interval. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
isolating, by the passive optical network power meter, the optical network unit from a passive optical network in the upstream direction. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the isolating comprises:
directing the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to an optical signal level meter; measuring a first transmit power of the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter; measuring a second transmit power of the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter for detecting the average transmit power for the optical network unit; and wherein the determining determines the extinction ratio based on the first transmit power and the second transmit power. 9. A passive optical network power meter comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to
determine an extinction ratio for an optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval,
detect an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values, and
identify an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 10. The passive optical network power meter of claim 9, wherein the operating state of the optical network unit is one of compliant or non-compliant relative to standard operating parameters associated with the optical network unit;
the standard operating parameters include at least a maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and a minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value for the optical network unit; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to
compute an optical modulation amplitude value for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power, and
identify the operating state of the optical network unit based on the optical modulation amplitude value, the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 11. The passive optical network power meter of claim 10, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to identify the operating state of the optical network unit based on whether the optical modulation amplitude value is between the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 12. The passive optical network power meter of claim 9, further comprising:
an optical switch configured to isolate the optical network unit from a passive optical network in the upstream direction. 13. The passive optical network power meter of claim 12, further comprising:
an optical signal level meter configured to measure a first transmit power of the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, a second transmit power of the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, and to detect the average transmit power for the optical network unit; wherein
the optical switch is configured to direct the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions to the optical signal level meter, and
the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to determine the extinction ratio based on the first transmit power and the second transmit power. 14. The passive optical network power meter of claim 9, wherein
the passive optical network power meter is configured to operate in a passive mode and an isolation mode; and the passive optical network power meter includes an optical switch, the optical switch configured to
pass transmission signals from the optical network unit in the upstream direction when in the passive mode, and
block transmission signals from the optical network unit in the upstream direction when in the isolation mode. 15. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause a passive optical network power meter to perform a method of determining an operating state of an optical network unit, the method comprising:
determining an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; detecting an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values; and identifying an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the operating state of the optical network unit is one of compliant or non-compliant relative to standard operating parameters associated with the optical network unit. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, wherein
the standard operating parameters include a maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and a minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value for the optical network unit; the method further includes computing an optical modulation amplitude value for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on the optical modulation amplitude value, the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on whether the optical modulation amplitude value is between the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
isolating the optical network unit from a passive optical network in the upstream direction. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 19, wherein the isolating comprises:
directing the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to an optical signal level meter; measuring a first transmit power of the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter; measuring a second transmit power of the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter for detecting the average transmit power for the optical network unit; and wherein the determining determines the extinction ratio based on the first transmit power and the second transmit power. | A passive optical network power meter includes at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to: determine an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; detect an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values; and identify an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power.1. A method of determining an operating state of an optical network unit, the method comprising:
determining, at a passive optical network power meter, an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; detecting, at the passive optical network power meter, an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values; and identifying, at the passive optical network power meter, an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the operating state of the optical network unit is one of compliant or non-compliant relative to standard operating parameters associated with the optical network unit. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein
the standard operating parameters include a maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and a minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value for the optical network unit; the method further includes computing an optical modulation amplitude value for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on the optical modulation amplitude value, the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on whether the optical modulation amplitude value is between the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining, the detecting and the identifying are performed at the time of installation of the optical network unit at a subscriber premises. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the passive optical network power meter during the fourth time interval. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
isolating, by the passive optical network power meter, the optical network unit from a passive optical network in the upstream direction. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the isolating comprises:
directing the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to an optical signal level meter; measuring a first transmit power of the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter; measuring a second transmit power of the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter for detecting the average transmit power for the optical network unit; and wherein the determining determines the extinction ratio based on the first transmit power and the second transmit power. 9. A passive optical network power meter comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to
determine an extinction ratio for an optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval,
detect an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values, and
identify an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 10. The passive optical network power meter of claim 9, wherein the operating state of the optical network unit is one of compliant or non-compliant relative to standard operating parameters associated with the optical network unit;
the standard operating parameters include at least a maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and a minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value for the optical network unit; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to
compute an optical modulation amplitude value for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power, and
identify the operating state of the optical network unit based on the optical modulation amplitude value, the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 11. The passive optical network power meter of claim 10, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to identify the operating state of the optical network unit based on whether the optical modulation amplitude value is between the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 12. The passive optical network power meter of claim 9, further comprising:
an optical switch configured to isolate the optical network unit from a passive optical network in the upstream direction. 13. The passive optical network power meter of claim 12, further comprising:
an optical signal level meter configured to measure a first transmit power of the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, a second transmit power of the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, and to detect the average transmit power for the optical network unit; wherein
the optical switch is configured to direct the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions to the optical signal level meter, and
the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the passive optical network power meter to determine the extinction ratio based on the first transmit power and the second transmit power. 14. The passive optical network power meter of claim 9, wherein
the passive optical network power meter is configured to operate in a passive mode and an isolation mode; and the passive optical network power meter includes an optical switch, the optical switch configured to
pass transmission signals from the optical network unit in the upstream direction when in the passive mode, and
block transmission signals from the optical network unit in the upstream direction when in the isolation mode. 15. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause a passive optical network power meter to perform a method of determining an operating state of an optical network unit, the method comprising:
determining an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval and a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; detecting an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values; and identifying an operating state of the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the operating state of the optical network unit is one of compliant or non-compliant relative to standard operating parameters associated with the optical network unit. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, wherein
the standard operating parameters include a maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and a minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value for the optical network unit; the method further includes computing an optical modulation amplitude value for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on the optical modulation amplitude value, the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the identifying identifies the operating state of the optical network unit based on whether the optical modulation amplitude value is between the minimum optical modulation amplitude threshold value and the maximum optical modulation amplitude threshold value. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
isolating the optical network unit from a passive optical network in the upstream direction. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 19, wherein the isolating comprises:
directing the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to an optical signal level meter; measuring a first transmit power of the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter; measuring a second transmit power of the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit; directing the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions from the optical network unit to the optical signal level meter for detecting the average transmit power for the optical network unit; and wherein the determining determines the extinction ratio based on the first transmit power and the second transmit power. | 3,600 |
341,305 | 16,801,628 | 3,687 | A conference support system is for supporting a conference. The conference support system includes one or more information processing apparatuses for implementing various functions of the conference support system. The conference support system includes an inputter configured to input a statement content that is a content of a statement stated by a participant of the conference; a determiner configured to determine a statement type of the statement content, based on the statement content input by the inputter; and an outputter configured to output at least one of the statement content, an evaluation of the conference, and an evaluation of the participant, based on a determination result obtained by the determiner. | 1. A conference support system for supporting a conference, the conference support system including one or more information processing apparatuses for implementing various functions of the conference support system, the conference support system comprising:
an inputter configured to input a statement content that is a content of a statement stated by a participant of the conference; a determiner configured to determine a statement type of the statement content, based on the statement content input by the inputter; and an outputter configured to output at least one of the statement content, an evaluation of the conference, and an evaluation of the participant, based on a determination result obtained by the determiner. | A conference support system is for supporting a conference. The conference support system includes one or more information processing apparatuses for implementing various functions of the conference support system. The conference support system includes an inputter configured to input a statement content that is a content of a statement stated by a participant of the conference; a determiner configured to determine a statement type of the statement content, based on the statement content input by the inputter; and an outputter configured to output at least one of the statement content, an evaluation of the conference, and an evaluation of the participant, based on a determination result obtained by the determiner.1. A conference support system for supporting a conference, the conference support system including one or more information processing apparatuses for implementing various functions of the conference support system, the conference support system comprising:
an inputter configured to input a statement content that is a content of a statement stated by a participant of the conference; a determiner configured to determine a statement type of the statement content, based on the statement content input by the inputter; and an outputter configured to output at least one of the statement content, an evaluation of the conference, and an evaluation of the participant, based on a determination result obtained by the determiner. | 3,600 |
341,306 | 16,801,611 | 3,687 | The display device includes: a flexible display panel including a display portion in which scanning lines and signal lines cross each other; a supporting portion for supporting an end portion of the flexible display panel; a signal line driver circuit for outputting a signal to the signal line, which is provided for the supporting portion; and a scanning line driver circuit for outputting a signal to the scanning line, which is provided for a flexible surface of the display panel in a direction which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the supporting portion. | 1. (canceled) 2. A display device comprising:
a flexible display panel comprising:
a scanning line driver circuit; and
a display portion including a light-emitting element;
a flexible printed circuit attached to a first portion of the flexible display panel; an IC mounted on the flexible printed circuit; and a supporting portion in which the flexible printed circuit and the IC are provided, wherein: the flexible display panel comprises a stress concentration region between the display portion and the first portion of the flexible display panel, each of the IC and the stress concentration region is provided along a first direction parallel to a region where the flexible display panel is bent, and the scanning line driver circuit comprises a region provided along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. 3. A display device comprising:
a flexible display panel comprising:
a scanning line driver circuit; and
a display portion including a light-emitting element;
a flexible printed circuit attached to a first portion of the flexible display panel; an IC mounted on a second portion of the flexible display panel that is between the display portion and the first portion; and a supporting portion in which the flexible printed circuit and the IC are provided, wherein: the flexible display panel comprises a stress concentration region between the display portion and the first portion of the flexible display panel, each of the IC and the stress concentration region is provided along a first direction parallel to a region where the flexible display panel is bent, and the scanning line driver circuit comprises a region provided along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. 4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein:
the flexible display panel comprises an element substrate and a sealing substrate, and the stress concentration region is provided in the sealing substrate. 5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein:
the flexible display panel comprises an element substrate and a sealing substrate, and the stress concentration region is provided in the sealing substrate. 6. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the stress concentration region comprises a cut portion in the flexible display panel. 7. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the stress concentration region comprises a cut portion in the flexible display panel. 8. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the supporting portion is provided along an end portion of the flexible display panel. 9. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the supporting portion is provided along an end portion of the flexible display panel. 10. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the stress concentration region is provided outside the supporting portion. 11. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the stress concentration region is provided outside the supporting portion. 12. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the IC comprises a signal line driver circuit. 13. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the IC comprises a signal line driver circuit. | The display device includes: a flexible display panel including a display portion in which scanning lines and signal lines cross each other; a supporting portion for supporting an end portion of the flexible display panel; a signal line driver circuit for outputting a signal to the signal line, which is provided for the supporting portion; and a scanning line driver circuit for outputting a signal to the scanning line, which is provided for a flexible surface of the display panel in a direction which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the supporting portion.1. (canceled) 2. A display device comprising:
a flexible display panel comprising:
a scanning line driver circuit; and
a display portion including a light-emitting element;
a flexible printed circuit attached to a first portion of the flexible display panel; an IC mounted on the flexible printed circuit; and a supporting portion in which the flexible printed circuit and the IC are provided, wherein: the flexible display panel comprises a stress concentration region between the display portion and the first portion of the flexible display panel, each of the IC and the stress concentration region is provided along a first direction parallel to a region where the flexible display panel is bent, and the scanning line driver circuit comprises a region provided along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. 3. A display device comprising:
a flexible display panel comprising:
a scanning line driver circuit; and
a display portion including a light-emitting element;
a flexible printed circuit attached to a first portion of the flexible display panel; an IC mounted on a second portion of the flexible display panel that is between the display portion and the first portion; and a supporting portion in which the flexible printed circuit and the IC are provided, wherein: the flexible display panel comprises a stress concentration region between the display portion and the first portion of the flexible display panel, each of the IC and the stress concentration region is provided along a first direction parallel to a region where the flexible display panel is bent, and the scanning line driver circuit comprises a region provided along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. 4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein:
the flexible display panel comprises an element substrate and a sealing substrate, and the stress concentration region is provided in the sealing substrate. 5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein:
the flexible display panel comprises an element substrate and a sealing substrate, and the stress concentration region is provided in the sealing substrate. 6. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the stress concentration region comprises a cut portion in the flexible display panel. 7. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the stress concentration region comprises a cut portion in the flexible display panel. 8. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the supporting portion is provided along an end portion of the flexible display panel. 9. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the supporting portion is provided along an end portion of the flexible display panel. 10. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the stress concentration region is provided outside the supporting portion. 11. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the stress concentration region is provided outside the supporting portion. 12. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the IC comprises a signal line driver circuit. 13. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the IC comprises a signal line driver circuit. | 3,600 |
341,307 | 16,801,637 | 3,687 | The present disclosure describes aspects of cache management of logical-physical translation metadata. In some aspects, a cache (260) for logical-physical translation entries of a storage media system (114) is divided into a plurality of segments (264). An indexer (364) is configured to efficiently balance a distribution of the logical-physical translation entries (252) between the segments (252). A search engine (362) associated with the cache is configured to search respective cache segments (264) and a cache manager (160) may leverage masked search functionality of the search engine (362) to reduce the overhead of cache flush operations. | 1. A method for managing logical-physical translation metadata, comprising:
caching mapping entries configured to associate logical addresses with physical addresses of a non-volatile memory system within a cache comprising a plurality of segments; and flushing mapping entries corresponding to a group of logical addresses from the cache to persistent storage, the flushing comprising:
searching segments of the cache with a masked search pattern configured to match mapping entries having logical addresses within the group, and
storing mapping entries determined to match the masked search pattern to the persistent storage. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising assigning mapping entries to respective segments of the cache in accordance with a first logical address distribution scheme configured to balance distribution of entries between the respective segments of the cache. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein assigning a mapping entry to a segment of the cache comprises:
deriving a hash value from the logical address of the mapping entry; and indexing one of the plurality of segments by the derived hash value. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the group of logical addresses are distributed in accordance with a second logical address distribution scheme different from the first logical address distribution scheme. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein searching a segment of the cache with the masked search pattern comprises:
populating a pattern buffer of a search engine with a logical address of the group; and configuring the search engine to ignore logical address comparisons corresponding to a designated region of the pattern buffer. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the group of logical addresses comprises a contiguous range of logical addresses, and wherein searching the segments of the cache with the masked search pattern comprises:
setting a target logical address of a search engine to a logical address within the contiguous range; and configuring the search engine to mask low-order bits of the target logical address. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein searching a segment of the cache with the masked search pattern comprises comparing the masked search pattern to logical addresses of each of a plurality of mapping entries cached within the segment at least partially in parallel. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising admitting mapping entries into the cache, wherein admitting a mapping entry comprises:
retrieving the mapping entry from persistent storage; assigning the mapping entry to a segment of the cache based on a logical address of the mapping entry; and caching the mapping entry within one of the determined segments and an overflow segment of the cache. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising retrieving mapping entries from the cache, wherein retrieving a mapping entry corresponding to a specified logical address from the cache comprises:
determining a segment of the cache assigned to the specified logical address based on a digest of the specified logical address; and searching one or more of the determined segment of the cache and the overflow segment of the cache for a mapping entry matching the specified logical address. 10. An apparatus, comprising:
an indexer configured to assign translation entries pertaining to a non-volatile memory device to respective segments of a cache comprising a plurality of segments based on hash values of logical addresses of the translation entries, the hash values configured to balance distribution of the translation entries between the respective segments; a search engine configured to search respective segments of the cache; and a cache manager, wherein, in response to a request to retrieve a translation entry of a logical address from the cache, the cache manager is configured to:
assign the logical address to a segment of the cache by use of the indexer, and
compare the logical address to translation entries cached within the assigned segment of the cache by use of the search engine. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein:
in response to the request to retrieve the translation entry of the logical address from the cache, the cache manager is further configured to compare the logical address to translation entries cached within an overflow segment of the cache; and in response to a cache miss for the translation entry of the logical address, the cache manager is further configured to:
retrieve the translation entry for the logical address from persistent storage; and
cache the translation entry within one of the assigned segments and the overflow segment of the cache. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the search engine is configured to compare the logical address to translation entries cached within the assigned segment and the overflow segment of the cache at least partially parallel. 13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the search engine comprises:
a pattern buffer configured to hold a target logical address, wherein a mask register of the pattern buffer is configured to selectively enable respective regions of the pattern buffer; and a match component configured to determine whether an entry cached within a segment of the cache matches the pattern buffer based on comparisons between regions of the pattern buffer enabled by the mask register and corresponding regions of the logical address of the translation entry. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the search engine comprises a plurality of match components, each match component configured to determine whether a respective entry cached within the segment of the cache matches the pattern buffer. 15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, in response to a request to flush translation entries to a mapping page comprising an extent of logical addresses, the cache manager is further configured to:
set a logical address of the extent as the target logical address of the pattern buffer; configure the mask register of the pattern buffer to disable a specified region of the pattern buffer, the specified region corresponding to a portion of the logical addresses within the extent determined to vary between the logical addresses of the extent; and cause the search engine to identify translation entries within respective segments of the cache that match the masked target logical address of the pattern buffer. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cache manager is further configured to:
update the mapping page with the identified translation entries; and write the updated mapping page to persistent storage. 17. A System-on-Chip (SoC), comprising:
a host interface to communicate with a host system; a cache comprising a plurality of segments, each segment configured to store entries of a logical-physical translation layer pertaining to a non-volatile memory (NVM) medium; a search engine to identify entries cached within respective segments of the cache that match criteria comprising a search pattern and mask, the mask configured to selectively disable specified regions of the search pattern; a hardware-based processor; and a memory storing processor-executable instructions that, responsive to execution by the hardware-based processor, implement a cache manager configured to:
select an extent of logical addresses to update on persistent storage in a flush operation,
cause the search engine to search respective segments of the cache for entries matching first criteria in response to selecting the extent, the search pattern of the first criteria comprising a logical address within the extent of logical addresses and the mask of the first criteria configured to disable at least one region of the search pattern, and
write entries determined to match the second search criteria to the persistent storage. 18. The SoC of claim 17, wherein to admit an entry pertaining to a designated logical address into the cache, the cache manager is further configured to:
determine a segment of the cache assigned to the designated logical address based on a logical address hashing scheme configured to balance entry distribution between the plurality of segments, and cache the entry within one of the determined segment of the cache and a secondary segment of the cache. 19. The SoC of claim 17, wherein to retrieve the entry pertaining to the designated logical address from the cache, the cache manager is further configured to:
determine the segment of the cache assigned to the designated logical address, and cause the search engine to search one or more of the determined segment of the cache and the secondary segment of the cache for an entry matching second criteria, the search pattern of the second criteria comprising the designated logical address and the mask of the second criteria configured such that none of the regions of the search pattern are disabled. 20. The SoC of claim 19, wherein the cache manager is configured to cause the search engine to search the determined segment of the cache and the secondary segment of the cache at least partially in parallel. | The present disclosure describes aspects of cache management of logical-physical translation metadata. In some aspects, a cache (260) for logical-physical translation entries of a storage media system (114) is divided into a plurality of segments (264). An indexer (364) is configured to efficiently balance a distribution of the logical-physical translation entries (252) between the segments (252). A search engine (362) associated with the cache is configured to search respective cache segments (264) and a cache manager (160) may leverage masked search functionality of the search engine (362) to reduce the overhead of cache flush operations.1. A method for managing logical-physical translation metadata, comprising:
caching mapping entries configured to associate logical addresses with physical addresses of a non-volatile memory system within a cache comprising a plurality of segments; and flushing mapping entries corresponding to a group of logical addresses from the cache to persistent storage, the flushing comprising:
searching segments of the cache with a masked search pattern configured to match mapping entries having logical addresses within the group, and
storing mapping entries determined to match the masked search pattern to the persistent storage. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising assigning mapping entries to respective segments of the cache in accordance with a first logical address distribution scheme configured to balance distribution of entries between the respective segments of the cache. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein assigning a mapping entry to a segment of the cache comprises:
deriving a hash value from the logical address of the mapping entry; and indexing one of the plurality of segments by the derived hash value. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the group of logical addresses are distributed in accordance with a second logical address distribution scheme different from the first logical address distribution scheme. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein searching a segment of the cache with the masked search pattern comprises:
populating a pattern buffer of a search engine with a logical address of the group; and configuring the search engine to ignore logical address comparisons corresponding to a designated region of the pattern buffer. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the group of logical addresses comprises a contiguous range of logical addresses, and wherein searching the segments of the cache with the masked search pattern comprises:
setting a target logical address of a search engine to a logical address within the contiguous range; and configuring the search engine to mask low-order bits of the target logical address. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein searching a segment of the cache with the masked search pattern comprises comparing the masked search pattern to logical addresses of each of a plurality of mapping entries cached within the segment at least partially in parallel. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising admitting mapping entries into the cache, wherein admitting a mapping entry comprises:
retrieving the mapping entry from persistent storage; assigning the mapping entry to a segment of the cache based on a logical address of the mapping entry; and caching the mapping entry within one of the determined segments and an overflow segment of the cache. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising retrieving mapping entries from the cache, wherein retrieving a mapping entry corresponding to a specified logical address from the cache comprises:
determining a segment of the cache assigned to the specified logical address based on a digest of the specified logical address; and searching one or more of the determined segment of the cache and the overflow segment of the cache for a mapping entry matching the specified logical address. 10. An apparatus, comprising:
an indexer configured to assign translation entries pertaining to a non-volatile memory device to respective segments of a cache comprising a plurality of segments based on hash values of logical addresses of the translation entries, the hash values configured to balance distribution of the translation entries between the respective segments; a search engine configured to search respective segments of the cache; and a cache manager, wherein, in response to a request to retrieve a translation entry of a logical address from the cache, the cache manager is configured to:
assign the logical address to a segment of the cache by use of the indexer, and
compare the logical address to translation entries cached within the assigned segment of the cache by use of the search engine. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein:
in response to the request to retrieve the translation entry of the logical address from the cache, the cache manager is further configured to compare the logical address to translation entries cached within an overflow segment of the cache; and in response to a cache miss for the translation entry of the logical address, the cache manager is further configured to:
retrieve the translation entry for the logical address from persistent storage; and
cache the translation entry within one of the assigned segments and the overflow segment of the cache. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the search engine is configured to compare the logical address to translation entries cached within the assigned segment and the overflow segment of the cache at least partially parallel. 13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the search engine comprises:
a pattern buffer configured to hold a target logical address, wherein a mask register of the pattern buffer is configured to selectively enable respective regions of the pattern buffer; and a match component configured to determine whether an entry cached within a segment of the cache matches the pattern buffer based on comparisons between regions of the pattern buffer enabled by the mask register and corresponding regions of the logical address of the translation entry. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the search engine comprises a plurality of match components, each match component configured to determine whether a respective entry cached within the segment of the cache matches the pattern buffer. 15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, in response to a request to flush translation entries to a mapping page comprising an extent of logical addresses, the cache manager is further configured to:
set a logical address of the extent as the target logical address of the pattern buffer; configure the mask register of the pattern buffer to disable a specified region of the pattern buffer, the specified region corresponding to a portion of the logical addresses within the extent determined to vary between the logical addresses of the extent; and cause the search engine to identify translation entries within respective segments of the cache that match the masked target logical address of the pattern buffer. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cache manager is further configured to:
update the mapping page with the identified translation entries; and write the updated mapping page to persistent storage. 17. A System-on-Chip (SoC), comprising:
a host interface to communicate with a host system; a cache comprising a plurality of segments, each segment configured to store entries of a logical-physical translation layer pertaining to a non-volatile memory (NVM) medium; a search engine to identify entries cached within respective segments of the cache that match criteria comprising a search pattern and mask, the mask configured to selectively disable specified regions of the search pattern; a hardware-based processor; and a memory storing processor-executable instructions that, responsive to execution by the hardware-based processor, implement a cache manager configured to:
select an extent of logical addresses to update on persistent storage in a flush operation,
cause the search engine to search respective segments of the cache for entries matching first criteria in response to selecting the extent, the search pattern of the first criteria comprising a logical address within the extent of logical addresses and the mask of the first criteria configured to disable at least one region of the search pattern, and
write entries determined to match the second search criteria to the persistent storage. 18. The SoC of claim 17, wherein to admit an entry pertaining to a designated logical address into the cache, the cache manager is further configured to:
determine a segment of the cache assigned to the designated logical address based on a logical address hashing scheme configured to balance entry distribution between the plurality of segments, and cache the entry within one of the determined segment of the cache and a secondary segment of the cache. 19. The SoC of claim 17, wherein to retrieve the entry pertaining to the designated logical address from the cache, the cache manager is further configured to:
determine the segment of the cache assigned to the designated logical address, and cause the search engine to search one or more of the determined segment of the cache and the secondary segment of the cache for an entry matching second criteria, the search pattern of the second criteria comprising the designated logical address and the mask of the second criteria configured such that none of the regions of the search pattern are disabled. 20. The SoC of claim 19, wherein the cache manager is configured to cause the search engine to search the determined segment of the cache and the secondary segment of the cache at least partially in parallel. | 3,600 |
341,308 | 16,801,642 | 1,737 | A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber and a method of operation thereof are disclosed. Chambers and methods are described that provide a chamber comprising an upper shield with two holes that are positioned to permit alternate sputtering from two targets. A process for improving reflectivity from a multilayer stack is also disclosed. | 1. A method of manufacturing an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank, the method comprising:
forming a reflective layer pair comprising silicon and molybdenum, wherein forming the reflective layer pair comprises:
(a) sputtering a silicon target in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber using a DC power source and an flowing inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a silicon layer on a substrate;
(b) sputtering the silicon target using an RF power source and flowing nitrogen gas in the PVD chamber to form a first Si3N4 interface layer on the silicon layer and a Si3N4 layer on the silicon target;
(c) sputtering a molybdenum target using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a molybdenum layer on the Si3N4 layer;
(d) sputtering the silicon target including the Si3N4 layer thereon using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a second Si3N4 interface layer on the molybdenum layer until the Si3N4 layer is depleted from silicon target and then depositing a silicon layer on the second Si3N4 interface layer; and
repeating steps (b) through (d) to form a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein sputtering the silicon target using the RF source and flowing the nitrogen gas in the PVD chamber further comprises flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the inert gas comprises argon. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising repeating steps (a) through (d) to form the multilayer stack comprising 40 reflective layer pairs. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the multilayer stack exhibits a reflectivity of 13.5 nm light that is greater than a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs comprising silicon and molybdenum that does not include the first Si3N4 interface layer and the second Si3N4 interface layer. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the RF power source operates at a frequency in a range of from 5-30 MHz. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the inert gas and the nitrogen gas are at a pressure in the PVD chamber in a range of 0.5-5 mTorr when the DC power is used. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the DC power is in a range of 300-1500 W. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the inert gas and the nitrogen gas are at a pressure in the PVD chamber in a range of 0.5-10 mTorr when the RF power is used. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising depositing a ruthenium capping layer on the multilayer stack. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising depositing an absorber layer on the ruthenium capping layer. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the PVD chamber comprises a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including the silicon target, a second cathode assembly including the molybdenum target, and an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies including a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield and with respect to the first and second cathode assemblies to expose the silicon target during and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the molybdenum target. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the upper shield has a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height sufficient so that during a deposition process, the raised area prevents material sputtered from the silicon target from being deposited on the molybdenum target and to prevent material sputtered from the molybdenum target from being deposited on the silicon target. 14. The method claim 13, wherein the height of the raised area is greater than one centimeter from the flat inside surface and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole. 15. A method of manufacturing an EUV mask blank comprising:
forming a reflective layer pair comprising silicon and molybdenum, wherein forming the reflective layer pair comprises:
(a) sputtering a silicon target in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber using a DC power source and an flowing inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a silicon layer on a substrate;
(b) sputtering the silicon target using an RF power source and flowing nitrogen gas in the PVD chamber to form a first Si3N4 interface layer on the silicon layer and a Si3N4 layer on the silicon target;
(c) sputtering a molybdenum target using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a molybdenum layer on the Si3N4 layer;
(d) sputtering the silicon target including the Si3N4 layer thereon using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a second Si3N4 interface layer on the molybdenum layer until the Si3N4 layer is depleted from silicon target and then depositing a silicon layer on the second Si3N4 interface layer;
repeating steps (b) through (d) to form a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs comprising 40 reflective layer pairs; forming a capping layer on the multilayer stack; and forming an absorber layer on the capping layer. 16. An extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank comprising:
a substrate; a multilayer stack which reflects EUV radiation, the multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pair including a silicon layer and a molybdenum layer, and an interface layer between the silicon layer and the molybdenum layer, the interface layer comprising Si3N4; a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflecting layers; and an absorber layer on the capping layer. 17. The EUV mask blank of claim 16, wherein the multilayer stack comprises 40 reflective layer pairs. 18. The EUV mask blank of claim 17, wherein the capping layer comprises ruthenium. 19. The EUV mask blank of claim 18, wherein the absorber layer comprises tantalum. 20. The EUV mask blank of claim 18, wherein the multilayer stack exhibits a reflectivity of 13.5 nm light that is greater than a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs comprising silicon and molybdenum that does not include the Si3N4 interface layer. | A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber and a method of operation thereof are disclosed. Chambers and methods are described that provide a chamber comprising an upper shield with two holes that are positioned to permit alternate sputtering from two targets. A process for improving reflectivity from a multilayer stack is also disclosed.1. A method of manufacturing an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank, the method comprising:
forming a reflective layer pair comprising silicon and molybdenum, wherein forming the reflective layer pair comprises:
(a) sputtering a silicon target in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber using a DC power source and an flowing inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a silicon layer on a substrate;
(b) sputtering the silicon target using an RF power source and flowing nitrogen gas in the PVD chamber to form a first Si3N4 interface layer on the silicon layer and a Si3N4 layer on the silicon target;
(c) sputtering a molybdenum target using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a molybdenum layer on the Si3N4 layer;
(d) sputtering the silicon target including the Si3N4 layer thereon using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a second Si3N4 interface layer on the molybdenum layer until the Si3N4 layer is depleted from silicon target and then depositing a silicon layer on the second Si3N4 interface layer; and
repeating steps (b) through (d) to form a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein sputtering the silicon target using the RF source and flowing the nitrogen gas in the PVD chamber further comprises flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the inert gas comprises argon. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising repeating steps (a) through (d) to form the multilayer stack comprising 40 reflective layer pairs. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the multilayer stack exhibits a reflectivity of 13.5 nm light that is greater than a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs comprising silicon and molybdenum that does not include the first Si3N4 interface layer and the second Si3N4 interface layer. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the RF power source operates at a frequency in a range of from 5-30 MHz. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the inert gas and the nitrogen gas are at a pressure in the PVD chamber in a range of 0.5-5 mTorr when the DC power is used. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the DC power is in a range of 300-1500 W. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the inert gas and the nitrogen gas are at a pressure in the PVD chamber in a range of 0.5-10 mTorr when the RF power is used. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising depositing a ruthenium capping layer on the multilayer stack. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising depositing an absorber layer on the ruthenium capping layer. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the PVD chamber comprises a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including the silicon target, a second cathode assembly including the molybdenum target, and an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies including a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield and with respect to the first and second cathode assemblies to expose the silicon target during and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the molybdenum target. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the upper shield has a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height sufficient so that during a deposition process, the raised area prevents material sputtered from the silicon target from being deposited on the molybdenum target and to prevent material sputtered from the molybdenum target from being deposited on the silicon target. 14. The method claim 13, wherein the height of the raised area is greater than one centimeter from the flat inside surface and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole. 15. A method of manufacturing an EUV mask blank comprising:
forming a reflective layer pair comprising silicon and molybdenum, wherein forming the reflective layer pair comprises:
(a) sputtering a silicon target in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber using a DC power source and an flowing inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a silicon layer on a substrate;
(b) sputtering the silicon target using an RF power source and flowing nitrogen gas in the PVD chamber to form a first Si3N4 interface layer on the silicon layer and a Si3N4 layer on the silicon target;
(c) sputtering a molybdenum target using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a molybdenum layer on the Si3N4 layer;
(d) sputtering the silicon target including the Si3N4 layer thereon using a DC power source and flowing an inert gas in the PVD chamber to form a second Si3N4 interface layer on the molybdenum layer until the Si3N4 layer is depleted from silicon target and then depositing a silicon layer on the second Si3N4 interface layer;
repeating steps (b) through (d) to form a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs comprising 40 reflective layer pairs; forming a capping layer on the multilayer stack; and forming an absorber layer on the capping layer. 16. An extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank comprising:
a substrate; a multilayer stack which reflects EUV radiation, the multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pair including a silicon layer and a molybdenum layer, and an interface layer between the silicon layer and the molybdenum layer, the interface layer comprising Si3N4; a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflecting layers; and an absorber layer on the capping layer. 17. The EUV mask blank of claim 16, wherein the multilayer stack comprises 40 reflective layer pairs. 18. The EUV mask blank of claim 17, wherein the capping layer comprises ruthenium. 19. The EUV mask blank of claim 18, wherein the absorber layer comprises tantalum. 20. The EUV mask blank of claim 18, wherein the multilayer stack exhibits a reflectivity of 13.5 nm light that is greater than a multilayer stack comprising a plurality of reflective layer pairs comprising silicon and molybdenum that does not include the Si3N4 interface layer. | 1,700 |
341,309 | 16,801,610 | 1,737 | A method includes: determining, by a computing device, transactions of a monolithic application; ranking, by the computing device, the transactions using predefined rules; selecting, by the computing device, a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determining, by the computing device, lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; mapping, by the computing device, respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and defining, by the computing device, a target state design based on CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation), the target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation. | 1. A method, comprising:
determining, by a computing device, transactions of a monolithic application; ranking, by the computing device, the transactions using predefined rules; selecting, by the computing device, a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determining, by the computing device, lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; mapping, by the computing device, respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and defining, by the computing device, a target state design based on CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation), the target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining the lines of application code comprises:
determining a primary token; and determining at least one secondary token based on the primary token. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein:
the determining the primary token comprises determining a change in a data log caused by the candidate transaction; and the determining the at least one secondary token comprises: determining a portion of the application code associated with the primary token; and determining at least one variable in the determined portion of the application code. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the mapping comprises using a token affinity model to determine a closeness of the respective ones of the determined lines of application code to the first operation and the second operation. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein:
the first operation comprises a read operation; and the second operation comprises at least one of a create, update, and delete operation. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising providing an interface by which a user provides input to configure the predefined rules. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein:
the determining the transactions comprises performing dynamic analysis of a runtime of the monolithic application; and the determining the lines of application code comprises performing a static analysis of the application code, a static analysis of logs, and a static analysis of documents associated with the monolithic application. 8. The method of claim 2, further comprising using machine learning to adjust an algorithm that is used in performing the determining the primary token. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising using machine learning to adjust an algorithm that is used in performing the determining the at least one secondary token. 10. A computer program product comprising one or more computer readable storage media having program instructions collectively stored on the one or more computer readable storage media, the program instructions executable to:
determine transactions of a monolithic application; rank the transactions using predefined rules; select a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determine lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; map respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and define a target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation. 11. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein:
the determining the transactions comprises performing dynamic analysis of a runtime of the monolithic application; and the determining the lines of application code comprises: determining a primary token; determining at least one secondary token based on the primary token; and performing a static analysis of the application code, a static analysis of logs, and a static analysis of documents associated with the monolithic application. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein:
the determining the primary token comprises determining a change in a data log caused by the candidate transaction; and the determining the at least one secondary token comprises: determining a portion of the application code associated with the primary token; and determining at least one variable in the determined portion of the application code. 13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein the mapping comprises using a token affinity model to determine a closeness of the respective ones of the determined lines of application code to the first operation and the second operation. 14. The computer program product of claim 13, wherein:
the first operation comprises a read operation; and the second operation comprises at least one of a create, update, and delete operation. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the program instructions are further executable to provide an interface by which a user provides input to configure the predefined rules. 16. A system comprising:
a processor, a computer readable memory, one or more computer readable storage media, and program instructions collectively stored on the one or more computer readable storage media, wherein the program instructions executable by the processor via the computer readable memory to: determine transactions of a monolithic application; rank the transactions using predefined rules; select a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determine lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; map respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and define a target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation, wherein the determining the lines of application code comprises: determining a primary token; and determining at least one secondary token based on the primary token. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein:
the determining the primary token comprises determining a change in a data log caused by the candidate transaction; and the determining the at least one secondary token comprises: determining a portion of the application code associated with the primary token; and determining at least one variable in the determined portion of the application code. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the mapping comprises using a token affinity model to determine a closeness of the respective ones of the determined lines of application code to the first operation and the second operation. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein:
the first operation comprises a read operation; and the second operation comprises at least one of a create, update, and delete operation. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the program instructions are further executable to provide an interface by which a user provides input to configure the predefined rules. | A method includes: determining, by a computing device, transactions of a monolithic application; ranking, by the computing device, the transactions using predefined rules; selecting, by the computing device, a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determining, by the computing device, lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; mapping, by the computing device, respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and defining, by the computing device, a target state design based on CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation), the target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation.1. A method, comprising:
determining, by a computing device, transactions of a monolithic application; ranking, by the computing device, the transactions using predefined rules; selecting, by the computing device, a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determining, by the computing device, lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; mapping, by the computing device, respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and defining, by the computing device, a target state design based on CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation), the target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining the lines of application code comprises:
determining a primary token; and determining at least one secondary token based on the primary token. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein:
the determining the primary token comprises determining a change in a data log caused by the candidate transaction; and the determining the at least one secondary token comprises: determining a portion of the application code associated with the primary token; and determining at least one variable in the determined portion of the application code. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the mapping comprises using a token affinity model to determine a closeness of the respective ones of the determined lines of application code to the first operation and the second operation. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein:
the first operation comprises a read operation; and the second operation comprises at least one of a create, update, and delete operation. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising providing an interface by which a user provides input to configure the predefined rules. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein:
the determining the transactions comprises performing dynamic analysis of a runtime of the monolithic application; and the determining the lines of application code comprises performing a static analysis of the application code, a static analysis of logs, and a static analysis of documents associated with the monolithic application. 8. The method of claim 2, further comprising using machine learning to adjust an algorithm that is used in performing the determining the primary token. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising using machine learning to adjust an algorithm that is used in performing the determining the at least one secondary token. 10. A computer program product comprising one or more computer readable storage media having program instructions collectively stored on the one or more computer readable storage media, the program instructions executable to:
determine transactions of a monolithic application; rank the transactions using predefined rules; select a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determine lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; map respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and define a target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation. 11. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein:
the determining the transactions comprises performing dynamic analysis of a runtime of the monolithic application; and the determining the lines of application code comprises: determining a primary token; determining at least one secondary token based on the primary token; and performing a static analysis of the application code, a static analysis of logs, and a static analysis of documents associated with the monolithic application. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein:
the determining the primary token comprises determining a change in a data log caused by the candidate transaction; and the determining the at least one secondary token comprises: determining a portion of the application code associated with the primary token; and determining at least one variable in the determined portion of the application code. 13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein the mapping comprises using a token affinity model to determine a closeness of the respective ones of the determined lines of application code to the first operation and the second operation. 14. The computer program product of claim 13, wherein:
the first operation comprises a read operation; and the second operation comprises at least one of a create, update, and delete operation. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the program instructions are further executable to provide an interface by which a user provides input to configure the predefined rules. 16. A system comprising:
a processor, a computer readable memory, one or more computer readable storage media, and program instructions collectively stored on the one or more computer readable storage media, wherein the program instructions executable by the processor via the computer readable memory to: determine transactions of a monolithic application; rank the transactions using predefined rules; select a candidate transaction from the ranked list; determine lines of application code of the monolithic application associated with the candidate transaction; map respective ones of the determined lines of application code to a first operation and a second operation, wherein the first operation and the second operation are different types of operation; and define a target state design including a first microservice that performs the first operation and a second microservice that performs the second operation, wherein the determining the lines of application code comprises: determining a primary token; and determining at least one secondary token based on the primary token. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein:
the determining the primary token comprises determining a change in a data log caused by the candidate transaction; and the determining the at least one secondary token comprises: determining a portion of the application code associated with the primary token; and determining at least one variable in the determined portion of the application code. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the mapping comprises using a token affinity model to determine a closeness of the respective ones of the determined lines of application code to the first operation and the second operation. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein:
the first operation comprises a read operation; and the second operation comprises at least one of a create, update, and delete operation. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the program instructions are further executable to provide an interface by which a user provides input to configure the predefined rules. | 1,700 |
341,310 | 16,801,614 | 1,737 | A method and apparatus are disclosed from the perspective of a first UE (User Equipment) to perform sidelink logical channel (SL LCH) establishment. In one embodiment, the method includes the first UE storing a list of sidelink configurations, wherein each entry in the list contains one sidelink configuration and at least one PC5 QoS identifier (PQI) associated with the one sidelink configuration. The method further includes the first UE selecting an entry in the list according to a PQI of a PC5 QoS flow from a sidelink service. The method also includes the first UE establishing a SL LCH for the PC5 QoS flow according to a sidelink configuration of the entry and assigning an identity for the SL LCH. In addition, the method includes the first UE transmitting information to a second UE for the second UE to establish the SL LCH, wherein the information includes at least the identity of the SL LCH, an identity of the PC5 QoS flow, and Transmission-Reception (TX-RX) aligned parameters included in the sidelink configuration. Furthermore, the method includes the first UE transmitting sidelink packet(s) from the PC5 QoS flow on the SL LCH. | 1. A method for a first UE (User Equipment) to perform sidelink logical channel (SL LCH) establishment, comprising:
storing a list of sidelink configurations, wherein each entry in the list contains one sidelink configuration and at least one PC5 QoS identifier (PQI) associated with the one sidelink configuration, wherein each sidelink configuration includes at least one of a Sequence Number (SN) length and a Radio Link Control (RLC) mode and does not include any identity of SL LCH; selecting an entry in the list according to a PQI of a PC5 QoS flow from a sidelink service; establishing a SL LCH for the PC5 QoS flow according to a sidelink configuration of the entry and assigning an identity for the SL LCH; transmitting information to a second UE for the second UE to establish the SL LCH, wherein the information includes at least the identity of the SL LCH, an identity of the PC5 QoS flow, and at least one of the SN length and the RLC mode included in the sidelink configuration; and transmitting sidelink packet(s) from the PC5 QoS flow on the SL LCH. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein each sidelink configuration also includes TX-only parameters, and wherein the TX-only parameters are parameters that are used for the first UE to perform transmission on the SL LCH associated with the sidelink configuration. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the information is transmitted after a unicast link has been established between the first UE and the second UE. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the information is transmitted via a PC5 Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the list of sidelink configurations are predefined in the first UE or provisioned via a system information broadcasted by a base station. 6. (canceled) 7. (canceled) 8. (canceled) 9. (canceled) 10. (canceled) 11. A first communication device, comprising:
a control circuit; a processor installed in the control circuit; and a memory installed in the control circuit and operatively coupled to the processor; wherein the processor is configured to execute a program code stored in the memory to:
store a list of sidelink configurations, wherein each entry in the list contains one sidelink configuration and at least one PC5 QoS identifier (PQI) associated with the one sidelink configuration, wherein each sidelink configuration includes at least one of a Sequence Number (SN) length and a Radio Link Control (RLC) mode and does not include any identity of sidelink logical channel (SL LCH);
select an entry in the list according to a PQI of a PC5 QoS flow from a sidelink service;
establish a SL LCH for the PC5 QoS flow according to a sidelink configuration of the entry and assigning an identity for the SL LCH;
transmit information to a second UE for the second UE to establish the SL LCH, wherein the information includes at least the identity of the SL LCH, an identity of the PC5 QoS flow, and at least one of the SN length and the RLC mode included in the sidelink configuration; and
transmit sidelink packet(s) from the PC5 QoS flow on the SL LCH. 12. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein each sidelink configuration also includes TX-only parameters and wherein the TX-only parameters are parameters that are used for the first communication device to perform transmission on the SL LCH associated with the sidelink configuration. 13. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein the information is transmitted after a unicast link has been established between the first communication device and the second communication device. 14. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein the information is transmitted via a PC5 Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. 15. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein the list of sidelink configurations are predefined in the first communication device or provisioned via a system information broadcasted by a base station. 16. (canceled) 17. (canceled) 18. (canceled) 19. (canceled) 20. (canceled) | A method and apparatus are disclosed from the perspective of a first UE (User Equipment) to perform sidelink logical channel (SL LCH) establishment. In one embodiment, the method includes the first UE storing a list of sidelink configurations, wherein each entry in the list contains one sidelink configuration and at least one PC5 QoS identifier (PQI) associated with the one sidelink configuration. The method further includes the first UE selecting an entry in the list according to a PQI of a PC5 QoS flow from a sidelink service. The method also includes the first UE establishing a SL LCH for the PC5 QoS flow according to a sidelink configuration of the entry and assigning an identity for the SL LCH. In addition, the method includes the first UE transmitting information to a second UE for the second UE to establish the SL LCH, wherein the information includes at least the identity of the SL LCH, an identity of the PC5 QoS flow, and Transmission-Reception (TX-RX) aligned parameters included in the sidelink configuration. Furthermore, the method includes the first UE transmitting sidelink packet(s) from the PC5 QoS flow on the SL LCH.1. A method for a first UE (User Equipment) to perform sidelink logical channel (SL LCH) establishment, comprising:
storing a list of sidelink configurations, wherein each entry in the list contains one sidelink configuration and at least one PC5 QoS identifier (PQI) associated with the one sidelink configuration, wherein each sidelink configuration includes at least one of a Sequence Number (SN) length and a Radio Link Control (RLC) mode and does not include any identity of SL LCH; selecting an entry in the list according to a PQI of a PC5 QoS flow from a sidelink service; establishing a SL LCH for the PC5 QoS flow according to a sidelink configuration of the entry and assigning an identity for the SL LCH; transmitting information to a second UE for the second UE to establish the SL LCH, wherein the information includes at least the identity of the SL LCH, an identity of the PC5 QoS flow, and at least one of the SN length and the RLC mode included in the sidelink configuration; and transmitting sidelink packet(s) from the PC5 QoS flow on the SL LCH. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein each sidelink configuration also includes TX-only parameters, and wherein the TX-only parameters are parameters that are used for the first UE to perform transmission on the SL LCH associated with the sidelink configuration. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the information is transmitted after a unicast link has been established between the first UE and the second UE. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the information is transmitted via a PC5 Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the list of sidelink configurations are predefined in the first UE or provisioned via a system information broadcasted by a base station. 6. (canceled) 7. (canceled) 8. (canceled) 9. (canceled) 10. (canceled) 11. A first communication device, comprising:
a control circuit; a processor installed in the control circuit; and a memory installed in the control circuit and operatively coupled to the processor; wherein the processor is configured to execute a program code stored in the memory to:
store a list of sidelink configurations, wherein each entry in the list contains one sidelink configuration and at least one PC5 QoS identifier (PQI) associated with the one sidelink configuration, wherein each sidelink configuration includes at least one of a Sequence Number (SN) length and a Radio Link Control (RLC) mode and does not include any identity of sidelink logical channel (SL LCH);
select an entry in the list according to a PQI of a PC5 QoS flow from a sidelink service;
establish a SL LCH for the PC5 QoS flow according to a sidelink configuration of the entry and assigning an identity for the SL LCH;
transmit information to a second UE for the second UE to establish the SL LCH, wherein the information includes at least the identity of the SL LCH, an identity of the PC5 QoS flow, and at least one of the SN length and the RLC mode included in the sidelink configuration; and
transmit sidelink packet(s) from the PC5 QoS flow on the SL LCH. 12. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein each sidelink configuration also includes TX-only parameters and wherein the TX-only parameters are parameters that are used for the first communication device to perform transmission on the SL LCH associated with the sidelink configuration. 13. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein the information is transmitted after a unicast link has been established between the first communication device and the second communication device. 14. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein the information is transmitted via a PC5 Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. 15. The first communication device of claim 11, wherein the list of sidelink configurations are predefined in the first communication device or provisioned via a system information broadcasted by a base station. 16. (canceled) 17. (canceled) 18. (canceled) 19. (canceled) 20. (canceled) | 1,700 |
341,311 | 16,801,630 | 3,678 | A wave generating system is provided. The system includes an enclosure having a base and plurality of sidewalls extending orthogonally upward from edges thereon, wherein a plurality of pistons are disposed over the surface area of the base therein. A covering layer of a waterproof and flexible construction is pivotally affixed to a top end of the plurality of pistons and attached to the plurality of sidewalls. The plurality of pistons is operably connected to a circuit board disposed within a control panel via a grid connection and programmed to create patterns and contours in the covering layer via the plurality of pistons. The patterns of ocean floor conditions ideal for surfing, as well as other geometric patterns, may be programmed and operated using a display screen or remote control. | 1) A wave generating system, comprising:
An enclosure having a base and plurality of planar sidewalls extending orthogonally upward from a perimeter of the base and defining an interior volume therein; a plurality of pistons disposed along the base of the enclosure within the interior volume; a control panel in operable communication with the plurality of pistons; a covering layer pivotally attached to a top end of the plurality of pistons and affixed to the plurality of sidewalls; wherein the upper end of each piston includes a hemispherical ball member that engages with a socket joint disposed on an interior surface of the covering layer. 2) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is bounded by the base, the plurality of sidewalls, and the covering layer attached thereon to a top end of the sidewalls such that the enclosure defines an interior volume in which the plurality of pistons is disposed. 3) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein each piston of the plurality of pistons is independently controllable with respect to each additional piston of the plurality of pistons. 4) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pistons can be configured to make wavelike patterns and contours in the covering layer via the control panel. 5) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pistons can be configured to create various geometric patterns as desired by a user via the control panel. 6) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the each piston of the plurality of pistons includes a rounded tip on a top end thereon. 7) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pistons is pneumatically operated. 8) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein each piston of the plurality of pistons is of a rigid construction. 9) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein each piston of the plurality of pistons is connected to the covering layer via a ball and socket joint to allow for contouring on the surface of the covering layer while the piston is going from an extended to retracted position. 10) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the covering layer is of a flexible construction. 11) The wave generating system of claim 10, wherein the covering layer is removable. 12) The wave generating system of claim 10, wherein the covering layer is of a waterproof construction. 13) The wave generating system of claim 1, further comprising a display screen in operable communication with the control panel. 14) The wave generating system of claim 13, wherein the display screen comprises an interface having touchscreen functionality. 15) The wave generating system of claim 13, wherein the display screen allows a user to selectively control the geometric pattern of the plurality of pistons as desired. 16) The wave generating system of claim 1, further comprising a transceiver within the control panel in electronic communication with a remote control. 17) The wave generating system of claim 16, wherein actuators disposed on the remote control allow the user to selectively control the plurality of pistons. | A wave generating system is provided. The system includes an enclosure having a base and plurality of sidewalls extending orthogonally upward from edges thereon, wherein a plurality of pistons are disposed over the surface area of the base therein. A covering layer of a waterproof and flexible construction is pivotally affixed to a top end of the plurality of pistons and attached to the plurality of sidewalls. The plurality of pistons is operably connected to a circuit board disposed within a control panel via a grid connection and programmed to create patterns and contours in the covering layer via the plurality of pistons. The patterns of ocean floor conditions ideal for surfing, as well as other geometric patterns, may be programmed and operated using a display screen or remote control.1) A wave generating system, comprising:
An enclosure having a base and plurality of planar sidewalls extending orthogonally upward from a perimeter of the base and defining an interior volume therein; a plurality of pistons disposed along the base of the enclosure within the interior volume; a control panel in operable communication with the plurality of pistons; a covering layer pivotally attached to a top end of the plurality of pistons and affixed to the plurality of sidewalls; wherein the upper end of each piston includes a hemispherical ball member that engages with a socket joint disposed on an interior surface of the covering layer. 2) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is bounded by the base, the plurality of sidewalls, and the covering layer attached thereon to a top end of the sidewalls such that the enclosure defines an interior volume in which the plurality of pistons is disposed. 3) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein each piston of the plurality of pistons is independently controllable with respect to each additional piston of the plurality of pistons. 4) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pistons can be configured to make wavelike patterns and contours in the covering layer via the control panel. 5) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pistons can be configured to create various geometric patterns as desired by a user via the control panel. 6) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the each piston of the plurality of pistons includes a rounded tip on a top end thereon. 7) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pistons is pneumatically operated. 8) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein each piston of the plurality of pistons is of a rigid construction. 9) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein each piston of the plurality of pistons is connected to the covering layer via a ball and socket joint to allow for contouring on the surface of the covering layer while the piston is going from an extended to retracted position. 10) The wave generating system of claim 1, wherein the covering layer is of a flexible construction. 11) The wave generating system of claim 10, wherein the covering layer is removable. 12) The wave generating system of claim 10, wherein the covering layer is of a waterproof construction. 13) The wave generating system of claim 1, further comprising a display screen in operable communication with the control panel. 14) The wave generating system of claim 13, wherein the display screen comprises an interface having touchscreen functionality. 15) The wave generating system of claim 13, wherein the display screen allows a user to selectively control the geometric pattern of the plurality of pistons as desired. 16) The wave generating system of claim 1, further comprising a transceiver within the control panel in electronic communication with a remote control. 17) The wave generating system of claim 16, wherein actuators disposed on the remote control allow the user to selectively control the plurality of pistons. | 3,600 |
341,312 | 16,801,579 | 3,678 | A prosthetic orthopaedic component includes a porous three dimensional structure. The porous three dimensional structure includes post-manufacture residual particles that are to be removed. Methods are therefore disclosed for removing the residual particles and analyzing the particles. | 1. A method for removing at least one particle from an additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component, the method comprising the steps of:
submersing at least a portion of the additively manufactured orthopaedic in a liquid; sonicating at least a portion of the additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component so as to loosen the at least one particle; and shaking the additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component to a low frequency vibration that is less than the high level vibration so as to evacuate the loosened at least one particle from the additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the loosened at least one particle is detached from the orthopaedic prosthetic component but disposed in the orthopaedic prosthetic component. 3. The method of claim 1, comprising performing the shaking step while the at least one particle is submerged in the liquid. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the sonicating step occurs at a sonication frequency, and the second subjecting step occurs at a shaking frequency that is less than the sonication frequency. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid is polar. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid is substantially nonpolar. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of increasing a density of the liquid. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the increasing step comprises adding a salt to the liquid. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of adding a dispersion agent to the liquid. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of filtering the at least one particle from the fluid. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the filtering step comprises causing the liquid to flow through the filtration substrate, and preventing the at least one particle to flow through the filtration substrate during the causing step. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step of determining a weight of the at least one particle. 13. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of:
obtaining a magnified image of at least a portion of a substrate and the evacuated at least one particle supported by the substrate; viewing the magnified image on a display; surrounding the at least one particle with at least one boundary line on the image along a respective outer perimeter of the at least one particle, respectively; and determining at least one of 1) a quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) a size of the at least one particle, 3) an aspect ratio of the at least one particle, and 4) a weight of the at least one particle. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of thresholding the image so as to define the at least one boundary line, wherein an area defined by the boundary represents the at least one particle. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the at least one particle comprises a plurality of groups of particles spaced from each other in their respective entireties, the method further comprising the step of identifying a region of interest on the substrate that surrounds all of the particles prior to the surrounding step. 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of scanning each at least one particle inside each respective at least one boundary line to determine a characteristic of the at least one particle, the at least one characteristic including at least one of 1) the quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) the size of the at least one particle, and 3) the aspect ratio of the at least one particle. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising the step of comparing the determined characteristic against a predetermined threshold. 18. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of placing the substrate under a microscope so as to generate the magnified image. 19. A method for evaluating an orthopaedic prosthetic component, the method comprising the steps of:
obtaining a magnified image of at least a portion of a substrate and at least one particle supported by the substrate, wherein the at least one particle has been removed from the an additively manufactured structure of the orthopaedic prosthetic component; viewing the magnified image on a display; surrounding the at least one particle with at least one boundary line on the image along a respective outer perimeter of the at least one particle, respectively; and determining at least one of 1) a quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) a size of the at least one particle, 3) an aspect ratio of the at least one particle, and 4) a weight of the at least one particle. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of thresholding the image so as to define the at least one boundary line, wherein the boundary line surrounds an area that represents the particle, the method comprising the step of scanning the area so as to determine at least one of 1) a quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) the size of the at least one particle, and 3) the aspect ratio of the at least one particle. | A prosthetic orthopaedic component includes a porous three dimensional structure. The porous three dimensional structure includes post-manufacture residual particles that are to be removed. Methods are therefore disclosed for removing the residual particles and analyzing the particles.1. A method for removing at least one particle from an additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component, the method comprising the steps of:
submersing at least a portion of the additively manufactured orthopaedic in a liquid; sonicating at least a portion of the additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component so as to loosen the at least one particle; and shaking the additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component to a low frequency vibration that is less than the high level vibration so as to evacuate the loosened at least one particle from the additively manufactured orthopaedic prosthetic component. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the loosened at least one particle is detached from the orthopaedic prosthetic component but disposed in the orthopaedic prosthetic component. 3. The method of claim 1, comprising performing the shaking step while the at least one particle is submerged in the liquid. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the sonicating step occurs at a sonication frequency, and the second subjecting step occurs at a shaking frequency that is less than the sonication frequency. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid is polar. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid is substantially nonpolar. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of increasing a density of the liquid. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the increasing step comprises adding a salt to the liquid. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of adding a dispersion agent to the liquid. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of filtering the at least one particle from the fluid. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the filtering step comprises causing the liquid to flow through the filtration substrate, and preventing the at least one particle to flow through the filtration substrate during the causing step. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step of determining a weight of the at least one particle. 13. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of:
obtaining a magnified image of at least a portion of a substrate and the evacuated at least one particle supported by the substrate; viewing the magnified image on a display; surrounding the at least one particle with at least one boundary line on the image along a respective outer perimeter of the at least one particle, respectively; and determining at least one of 1) a quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) a size of the at least one particle, 3) an aspect ratio of the at least one particle, and 4) a weight of the at least one particle. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of thresholding the image so as to define the at least one boundary line, wherein an area defined by the boundary represents the at least one particle. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the at least one particle comprises a plurality of groups of particles spaced from each other in their respective entireties, the method further comprising the step of identifying a region of interest on the substrate that surrounds all of the particles prior to the surrounding step. 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of scanning each at least one particle inside each respective at least one boundary line to determine a characteristic of the at least one particle, the at least one characteristic including at least one of 1) the quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) the size of the at least one particle, and 3) the aspect ratio of the at least one particle. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising the step of comparing the determined characteristic against a predetermined threshold. 18. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of placing the substrate under a microscope so as to generate the magnified image. 19. A method for evaluating an orthopaedic prosthetic component, the method comprising the steps of:
obtaining a magnified image of at least a portion of a substrate and at least one particle supported by the substrate, wherein the at least one particle has been removed from the an additively manufactured structure of the orthopaedic prosthetic component; viewing the magnified image on a display; surrounding the at least one particle with at least one boundary line on the image along a respective outer perimeter of the at least one particle, respectively; and determining at least one of 1) a quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) a size of the at least one particle, 3) an aspect ratio of the at least one particle, and 4) a weight of the at least one particle. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of thresholding the image so as to define the at least one boundary line, wherein the boundary line surrounds an area that represents the particle, the method comprising the step of scanning the area so as to determine at least one of 1) a quantity of groups of the at least one particle, 2) the size of the at least one particle, and 3) the aspect ratio of the at least one particle. | 3,600 |
341,313 | 16,801,617 | 3,763 | The invention relates to a thermally insulated receptacle, preferably a refrigeration and/or a freezing appliance, comprising at least one temperature-controlled, preferably chilled interior and at least one thermoelectric element (20), especially at least one Peltier element (20), for controlling the temperature in the interior, preferably for generating cold in the chilled interior; further comprising at least one solid (10, 12) which is disposed in such a way that heat is conducted to the thermoelectric element (20), especially heat is dissipated from the chilled interior to the thermoelectric element (20) and/or heat is dissipated from the thermoelectric element (20) by having the solid (10, 12) conduct heat. | 1-11. (canceled) 12. A refrigerating unit, which is a refrigerator, a freezer or a refrigerator-freezer combination, the refrigerating unit comprising
a thermally insulated carcass enclosing an inner space; the thermally insulated carcass comprising an inner wall adjacent to the inner space, an outer skin forming the outside of the carcass and vacuum insulation elements arranged between the inner wall and the outer skin; a Peltier element arranged to cool the inner space; and solid heat conducting bodies on either side of the Peltier element, wherein an inner solid heat conducting body is present and arranged to transfer heat between the Peltier element and the inner wall and wherein an outer solid heat conducting body is arranged to transfer heat between the Peltier element and the outer skin; and wherein the inner solid heat conducting body and the inner wall of the carcass together form a single one-piece assembly, or wherein the outer solid heat conducting body and the outer skin of the carcass together form a single one-piece assembly or both. 13. The refrigerating unit in accordance with claim 12, wherein the inner solid heat conducting body, the outer solid heat conducting body, or both have a varying thickness and are thickest where in contact with the respective Peltier element. 14. The refrigerating unit in accordance with claim 12, further comprising a plastic fastening element to fix the inner solid heat conducting body, the outer solid heat conducting body or both to the Peltier element. 15. The refrigerating unit in accordance with claim 12, wherein the inner solid heat conducting body, the outer solid heat conducting body, or both consist of aluminum. | The invention relates to a thermally insulated receptacle, preferably a refrigeration and/or a freezing appliance, comprising at least one temperature-controlled, preferably chilled interior and at least one thermoelectric element (20), especially at least one Peltier element (20), for controlling the temperature in the interior, preferably for generating cold in the chilled interior; further comprising at least one solid (10, 12) which is disposed in such a way that heat is conducted to the thermoelectric element (20), especially heat is dissipated from the chilled interior to the thermoelectric element (20) and/or heat is dissipated from the thermoelectric element (20) by having the solid (10, 12) conduct heat.1-11. (canceled) 12. A refrigerating unit, which is a refrigerator, a freezer or a refrigerator-freezer combination, the refrigerating unit comprising
a thermally insulated carcass enclosing an inner space; the thermally insulated carcass comprising an inner wall adjacent to the inner space, an outer skin forming the outside of the carcass and vacuum insulation elements arranged between the inner wall and the outer skin; a Peltier element arranged to cool the inner space; and solid heat conducting bodies on either side of the Peltier element, wherein an inner solid heat conducting body is present and arranged to transfer heat between the Peltier element and the inner wall and wherein an outer solid heat conducting body is arranged to transfer heat between the Peltier element and the outer skin; and wherein the inner solid heat conducting body and the inner wall of the carcass together form a single one-piece assembly, or wherein the outer solid heat conducting body and the outer skin of the carcass together form a single one-piece assembly or both. 13. The refrigerating unit in accordance with claim 12, wherein the inner solid heat conducting body, the outer solid heat conducting body, or both have a varying thickness and are thickest where in contact with the respective Peltier element. 14. The refrigerating unit in accordance with claim 12, further comprising a plastic fastening element to fix the inner solid heat conducting body, the outer solid heat conducting body or both to the Peltier element. 15. The refrigerating unit in accordance with claim 12, wherein the inner solid heat conducting body, the outer solid heat conducting body, or both consist of aluminum. | 3,700 |
341,314 | 16,801,607 | 3,763 | The invention further relates to a method of disinfecting surface and instruments, particularly flexible endoscopes, using said aqueous disinfectant solution. | 1: A disinfectant composition comprising:
(A) a peracetic acid-generating component comprising acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and an organic phosphonic acid; and (B) a stabilizer component comprising an alkaline agent and a chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent is selected from the group consisting of N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)L-glutamic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, and alkali metal salts thereof, and a mixture of two or more thereof. 2: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the stabilizer component (B) comprises from equal or more than about 0.05 wt.-% to equal or less than about 3 wt. % based on the total weight of the stabilizer component (B), of the chelating agent. 3: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the chelating agent is N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)-L-glutamic acid tetrasodium salt. 4: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the alkaline agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, ammonia, ammonium hydroxide and mixtures thereof. 5: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the stabilizer component (B) comprises from equal or more than about 3 wt.-% to equal or less than about 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the stabilizer component (B), of the alkaline agent. 6: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the peracetic acid-generating component (A) comprises from equal or more than about 5 wt.-% to equal or less than about 20 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the peracetic acid-generating component (A), of acetic acid. 7: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the peracetic acid-generating component (A) comprises from equal or more than about 20 wt.-% to equal or less than about 40 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the peracetic acid-generating component (A), of hydrogen peroxide. 8: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the organic phosphonic acid is selected from the group consisting of hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid and diethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid). 9: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the peracetic acid-generating component (A) comprises, based on the total weight of the peracetic acid-generating component (A), from equal or more than about 0.1 wt.-% to equal or less than about 5 wt.-% of the organic phosphonic acid. 10: An aqueous disinfectant solution obtainable by diluting a disinfectant composition, wherein the disinfectant composition comprises:
(A) a peracetic acid-generating component comprising acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and an organic phosphonic acid; and (B) a stabilizer component comprising an alkaline agent and a chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent is selected from the group consisting of N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)L-glutamic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, and alkali metal salts thereof, and a mixture of two or more thereof. 11: The aqueous disinfectant solution composition according to claim 10, wherein the disinfectant solution has a pH value in the range from equal or more than about 3 to equal or less than about 7. 12: The aqueous disinfectant solution composition according to claim 10, wherein the aqueous disinfectant solution comprises from equal or more than about 1000 ppm to equal or less than about 3000 ppm, based on the total weight of the disinfectant solution, of peracetic acid, for at least 7 days. 13. (canceled) 14: A method for disinfecting a surface comprising:
providing an aqueous disinfectant solution, wherein the disinfectant solution is obtained by diluting a disinfectant composition comprising:
(A) a peracetic acid-generating component comprising acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and an organic phosphonic acid; and
(B) a stabilizer component comprising an alkaline agent and a chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent is selected from the group consisting of N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)L-glutamic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, and alkali metal salts thereof, and a mixture of two or more thereof; and
contacting the surface with the aqueous disinfectant solution for an effective period of time to disinfect the surface. 15: The method according to claim 14, wherein the method is a method for the manual disinfection of instruments, particularly flexible endoscopes. 16: The method according to claim 14, wherein the diluting of the disinfectant composition is from equal or more than about 3 wt.-% to equal or less than about 6 wt.-% of the component (A) and from equal or more than about 3 wt.-% to equal or less than about 6 wt.-% of the component (B), based on the total weight of the aqueous disinfectant solution, in water. | The invention further relates to a method of disinfecting surface and instruments, particularly flexible endoscopes, using said aqueous disinfectant solution.1: A disinfectant composition comprising:
(A) a peracetic acid-generating component comprising acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and an organic phosphonic acid; and (B) a stabilizer component comprising an alkaline agent and a chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent is selected from the group consisting of N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)L-glutamic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, and alkali metal salts thereof, and a mixture of two or more thereof. 2: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the stabilizer component (B) comprises from equal or more than about 0.05 wt.-% to equal or less than about 3 wt. % based on the total weight of the stabilizer component (B), of the chelating agent. 3: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the chelating agent is N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)-L-glutamic acid tetrasodium salt. 4: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the alkaline agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, ammonia, ammonium hydroxide and mixtures thereof. 5: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the stabilizer component (B) comprises from equal or more than about 3 wt.-% to equal or less than about 10 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the stabilizer component (B), of the alkaline agent. 6: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the peracetic acid-generating component (A) comprises from equal or more than about 5 wt.-% to equal or less than about 20 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the peracetic acid-generating component (A), of acetic acid. 7: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the peracetic acid-generating component (A) comprises from equal or more than about 20 wt.-% to equal or less than about 40 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the peracetic acid-generating component (A), of hydrogen peroxide. 8: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the organic phosphonic acid is selected from the group consisting of hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid and diethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid). 9: The disinfectant composition according to claim 1, wherein the peracetic acid-generating component (A) comprises, based on the total weight of the peracetic acid-generating component (A), from equal or more than about 0.1 wt.-% to equal or less than about 5 wt.-% of the organic phosphonic acid. 10: An aqueous disinfectant solution obtainable by diluting a disinfectant composition, wherein the disinfectant composition comprises:
(A) a peracetic acid-generating component comprising acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and an organic phosphonic acid; and (B) a stabilizer component comprising an alkaline agent and a chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent is selected from the group consisting of N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)L-glutamic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, and alkali metal salts thereof, and a mixture of two or more thereof. 11: The aqueous disinfectant solution composition according to claim 10, wherein the disinfectant solution has a pH value in the range from equal or more than about 3 to equal or less than about 7. 12: The aqueous disinfectant solution composition according to claim 10, wherein the aqueous disinfectant solution comprises from equal or more than about 1000 ppm to equal or less than about 3000 ppm, based on the total weight of the disinfectant solution, of peracetic acid, for at least 7 days. 13. (canceled) 14: A method for disinfecting a surface comprising:
providing an aqueous disinfectant solution, wherein the disinfectant solution is obtained by diluting a disinfectant composition comprising:
(A) a peracetic acid-generating component comprising acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and an organic phosphonic acid; and
(B) a stabilizer component comprising an alkaline agent and a chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent is selected from the group consisting of N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)L-glutamic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, and alkali metal salts thereof, and a mixture of two or more thereof; and
contacting the surface with the aqueous disinfectant solution for an effective period of time to disinfect the surface. 15: The method according to claim 14, wherein the method is a method for the manual disinfection of instruments, particularly flexible endoscopes. 16: The method according to claim 14, wherein the diluting of the disinfectant composition is from equal or more than about 3 wt.-% to equal or less than about 6 wt.-% of the component (A) and from equal or more than about 3 wt.-% to equal or less than about 6 wt.-% of the component (B), based on the total weight of the aqueous disinfectant solution, in water. | 3,700 |
341,315 | 16,801,652 | 2,146 | A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute a process, the process includes acquiring, based on a compression model that is acquired by learning processing on a set of data generated by using a combination of values of variables and that compresses dimensions of data, a point corresponding to data generated by using a predetermined combination of the values of variables within a compressed space; acquiring, based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, a target point within the space corresponding to a target value of a characteristic changing in accordance with the values of variables, and a regression model within the space for a predetermined variable of variables, a change amount of the predetermined variable; and changing the value of the predetermined variable included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount. | 1. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute a process, the process comprising:
acquiring, based on a compression model that is acquired by learning processing on a set of data generated by using a combination of values of a plurality of variables and that compresses dimensions of data, a point corresponding to data generated by using a predetermined combination of the values of the plurality of variables within a compressed space; acquiring, based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, a target point within the space corresponding to a target value of a characteristic changing in accordance with the values of the plurality of variables, and a regression model within the space for a predetermined variable of the plurality of variables, a change amount of the predetermined variable; and changing the value of the predetermined variable included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount. 2. The storage medium according to claim 1, wherein
an objective variable of the regression model is the predetermined variable, and explanatory variables of the regression model are a plurality variables representing the space. 3. The storage medium according to claim 2, the process further comprising:
acquiring a first value of the predetermined variable from the target point by using the regression model; acquiring a second value of the predetermined variable from the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination by using the regression model; and acquiring the change amount by using a difference between the first value and the second value and reliability for the regression model. 4. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising:
generating the regression model by using the set of the data and the compression model; and acquiring the reliability for the regression model by using the set of the data, the compression model, and the regression model. 5. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising:
acquiring a change amount of each of the plurality of variables based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, the target point, and the regression model within the space for each of the plurality of variables; and changing the value of each of the plurality of variables included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount of each of the plurality of variables. 6. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising:
generating changed data and calculating the value of the characteristic by using the changed value of each of the plurality of variables; and when a difference between the calculated value and the target value is higher than a threshold value, changing the changed value of each of the plurality of variables by using the changed value of each of the plurality of variables as the predetermined combination, wherein the process for changing the changed value of each of the plurality of variables is repeated until the difference between the calculated value and the target value gets lower than the threshold value. 7. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising
acquiring the compression model by performing learning processing on the set of the data. 8. The storage medium according to claim 7, the process further comprising:
generating time-series data by executing a simulation on an analysis target by using each of a plurality of combinations of the values of the plurality of variables; generating an image representing the time-series data generated from each of the plurality of combinations; and learning a set of the images generated from the plurality of time-series data. 9. The storage medium according to claim 1, wherein
the compression model is a variational autoencoder. 10. A data processing method to be executed by a computer, the data processing method comprising:
acquiring, based on a compression model that is acquired by learning processing on a set of data generated by using a combination of values of a plurality of variables and that compresses dimensions of data, a point corresponding to data generated by using a predetermined combination of the values of the plurality of variables within a compressed space; acquiring, based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, a target point within the space corresponding to a target value of a characteristic changing in accordance with the values of the plurality of variables, and a regression model within the space for a predetermined variable of the plurality of variables, a change amount of the predetermined variable; and changing the value of the predetermined variable included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount. | A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute a process, the process includes acquiring, based on a compression model that is acquired by learning processing on a set of data generated by using a combination of values of variables and that compresses dimensions of data, a point corresponding to data generated by using a predetermined combination of the values of variables within a compressed space; acquiring, based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, a target point within the space corresponding to a target value of a characteristic changing in accordance with the values of variables, and a regression model within the space for a predetermined variable of variables, a change amount of the predetermined variable; and changing the value of the predetermined variable included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount.1. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute a process, the process comprising:
acquiring, based on a compression model that is acquired by learning processing on a set of data generated by using a combination of values of a plurality of variables and that compresses dimensions of data, a point corresponding to data generated by using a predetermined combination of the values of the plurality of variables within a compressed space; acquiring, based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, a target point within the space corresponding to a target value of a characteristic changing in accordance with the values of the plurality of variables, and a regression model within the space for a predetermined variable of the plurality of variables, a change amount of the predetermined variable; and changing the value of the predetermined variable included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount. 2. The storage medium according to claim 1, wherein
an objective variable of the regression model is the predetermined variable, and explanatory variables of the regression model are a plurality variables representing the space. 3. The storage medium according to claim 2, the process further comprising:
acquiring a first value of the predetermined variable from the target point by using the regression model; acquiring a second value of the predetermined variable from the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination by using the regression model; and acquiring the change amount by using a difference between the first value and the second value and reliability for the regression model. 4. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising:
generating the regression model by using the set of the data and the compression model; and acquiring the reliability for the regression model by using the set of the data, the compression model, and the regression model. 5. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising:
acquiring a change amount of each of the plurality of variables based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, the target point, and the regression model within the space for each of the plurality of variables; and changing the value of each of the plurality of variables included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount of each of the plurality of variables. 6. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising:
generating changed data and calculating the value of the characteristic by using the changed value of each of the plurality of variables; and when a difference between the calculated value and the target value is higher than a threshold value, changing the changed value of each of the plurality of variables by using the changed value of each of the plurality of variables as the predetermined combination, wherein the process for changing the changed value of each of the plurality of variables is repeated until the difference between the calculated value and the target value gets lower than the threshold value. 7. The storage medium according to claim 1, the process further comprising
acquiring the compression model by performing learning processing on the set of the data. 8. The storage medium according to claim 7, the process further comprising:
generating time-series data by executing a simulation on an analysis target by using each of a plurality of combinations of the values of the plurality of variables; generating an image representing the time-series data generated from each of the plurality of combinations; and learning a set of the images generated from the plurality of time-series data. 9. The storage medium according to claim 1, wherein
the compression model is a variational autoencoder. 10. A data processing method to be executed by a computer, the data processing method comprising:
acquiring, based on a compression model that is acquired by learning processing on a set of data generated by using a combination of values of a plurality of variables and that compresses dimensions of data, a point corresponding to data generated by using a predetermined combination of the values of the plurality of variables within a compressed space; acquiring, based on the point corresponding to the data generated by using the predetermined combination, a target point within the space corresponding to a target value of a characteristic changing in accordance with the values of the plurality of variables, and a regression model within the space for a predetermined variable of the plurality of variables, a change amount of the predetermined variable; and changing the value of the predetermined variable included in the predetermined combination by using the change amount. | 2,100 |
341,316 | 16,801,635 | 2,146 | Extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blanks, methods for their manufacture and EUV lithography systems are disclosed. The EUV mask blanks comprise an absorber including a tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers of a first material A and a second material B. | 1. A method of manufacturing an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank comprising:
forming a multilayer stack of reflective layers on a substrate, the multilayer stack of reflective layers including a plurality of reflective layer pairs; forming a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflective layers; forming an absorber comprising tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers comprising forming the tuning layer on the capping layer, the tuning layer having a tuning layer thickness tTL; and forming the stack of absorber layers on the capping layer, the stack of absorber layers including periodic bilayers of a first material A having a thickness tA and a refractive index nA and a second material B having a thickness tB and a refractive index nB, wherein each bilayer defines a period having a thickness tP=tA+tB, material A and B are different materials, wherein there is a difference in magnitude of nA and nB greater than 0.01, and the stack of absorber layers comprises N periods, and the thickness of the absorber tabs=N*tP+tTL. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of reflective layer pairs are made from a material selected from molybdenum (Mo) containing material and silicon (Si) containing material and material A and material B are made from a material selected from the group consisting of platinum (Pt), zinc (Zn), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), iridium (Jr), iron (Fe), tin (Sn), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), actinium (Ac), tellurium (Te), antimony (Sb), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), germanium (Ge), magnesium (Mg), tungsten (W), carbon (C), gallium (Ga), and boron (B), and alloys, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides, and oxides thereof. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the tuning layer comprises material A or material B and has a thickness that is different than tA and wherein adjusting the thickness provides a tunable absorption for the absorber. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein tabs is less than 30 nm. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein material A comprises Ag or Sb and material B comprises Te, Ta, or Ge. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein material A comprises Ag or GaSb and material B comprises ZnTe. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein tA is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and tB is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10. 9. An extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank comprising:
a substrate; a multilayer stack of reflective layers on the substrate, the multilayer stack of reflective layers including a plurality of reflective layer pairs; a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflecting layers; an absorber comprising a tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers, the tuning layer on the capping layer, the tuning layer having a tuning layer thickness tTL; and the stack of absorber layers including periodic bilayers of a first material A having a thickness tA and a refractive index nA and a second material B having a thickness tB and a refractive index nB, wherein each bilayer defines a period having a thickness tP=tA+tB, material A and B are different materials, wherein there is a difference in magnitude of nA and nB greater than 0.01, and the stack of absorber layers comprises N periods, wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10, and the thickness of the absorber tabs=N*tP+tTL. 10. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein the plurality of reflective layer pairs are made from a material selected from molybdenum (Mo) containing material and silicon (Si) containing material and material A and material B are made from a material selected from the group consisting of platinum (Pt), zinc (Zn), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), iridium (Jr), iron (Fe), tin (Sn), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), actinium (Ac), tellurium (Te), antimony (Sb), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), germanium (Ge), magnesium (Mg), tungsten (W), carbon (C), gallium (Ga), and boron (B), and alloys, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides, and oxides thereof. 11. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein the tuning layer comprises material A or material B and has a thickness that is different than tA and wherein adjusting the thickness provides a tunable absorption for the absorber. 12. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein tabs is less than 30 nm. 13. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein material A comprises Ag or Sb and material B comprises Te, Ta, or Ge. 14. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein material A comprises Ag or GaSb and material B comprises ZnTe. 15. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein tA is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and tB is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm. 16. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein N is in a range of from 2 to 5. 17. An extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography system comprising:
an extreme ultraviolet light source which produces extreme ultraviolet light; a reticle comprising a substrate;
a multilayer stack of reflective layers on the substrate, the multilayer stack of reflective layers including a plurality of reflective layer pairs;
a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflecting layers;
an absorber comprising tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers, the tuning layer on the capping layer, the tuning layer having a tuning layer thickness tTL; and
the stack of absorber layers including periodic bilayers of a first material A having a thickness tA and a refractive index nA and a second material B having a thickness tB and a refractive index nB, wherein each bilayer defines a period having a thickness tP=tA+tB, material A and B are different materials, wherein there is a difference in magnitude of nA and nB greater than 0.01, and the stack of absorber layers comprises N periods, wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10, and the thickness of the absorber tabs=N*tP+tTL. 18. The EUV lithography system of claim 17, wherein the plurality of reflective layer pairs are made from a material selected from molybdenum (Mo) containing material and silicon (Si) containing material and material A and material B are made from a material selected from the group consisting of platinum (Pt), zinc (Zn), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), iridium (Jr), iron (Fe), tin (Sn), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), actinium (Ac), tellurium (Te), antimony (Sb), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), germanium (Ge), magnesium (Mg), tungsten (W), carbon (C), gallium (Ga), and boron (B), and alloys, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides, and oxides thereof. 19. The EUV lithography system of claim 17, wherein the tuning layer comprises material A or material B and has a thickness that is different than tA and wherein adjusting the thickness provides a tunable absorption for the absorber and wherein tabs is less than 30 nm. 20. The EUV lithography system of claim 17, wherein tA is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and tB is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10. | Extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blanks, methods for their manufacture and EUV lithography systems are disclosed. The EUV mask blanks comprise an absorber including a tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers of a first material A and a second material B.1. A method of manufacturing an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank comprising:
forming a multilayer stack of reflective layers on a substrate, the multilayer stack of reflective layers including a plurality of reflective layer pairs; forming a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflective layers; forming an absorber comprising tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers comprising forming the tuning layer on the capping layer, the tuning layer having a tuning layer thickness tTL; and forming the stack of absorber layers on the capping layer, the stack of absorber layers including periodic bilayers of a first material A having a thickness tA and a refractive index nA and a second material B having a thickness tB and a refractive index nB, wherein each bilayer defines a period having a thickness tP=tA+tB, material A and B are different materials, wherein there is a difference in magnitude of nA and nB greater than 0.01, and the stack of absorber layers comprises N periods, and the thickness of the absorber tabs=N*tP+tTL. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of reflective layer pairs are made from a material selected from molybdenum (Mo) containing material and silicon (Si) containing material and material A and material B are made from a material selected from the group consisting of platinum (Pt), zinc (Zn), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), iridium (Jr), iron (Fe), tin (Sn), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), actinium (Ac), tellurium (Te), antimony (Sb), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), germanium (Ge), magnesium (Mg), tungsten (W), carbon (C), gallium (Ga), and boron (B), and alloys, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides, and oxides thereof. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the tuning layer comprises material A or material B and has a thickness that is different than tA and wherein adjusting the thickness provides a tunable absorption for the absorber. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein tabs is less than 30 nm. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein material A comprises Ag or Sb and material B comprises Te, Ta, or Ge. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein material A comprises Ag or GaSb and material B comprises ZnTe. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein tA is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and tB is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10. 9. An extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank comprising:
a substrate; a multilayer stack of reflective layers on the substrate, the multilayer stack of reflective layers including a plurality of reflective layer pairs; a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflecting layers; an absorber comprising a tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers, the tuning layer on the capping layer, the tuning layer having a tuning layer thickness tTL; and the stack of absorber layers including periodic bilayers of a first material A having a thickness tA and a refractive index nA and a second material B having a thickness tB and a refractive index nB, wherein each bilayer defines a period having a thickness tP=tA+tB, material A and B are different materials, wherein there is a difference in magnitude of nA and nB greater than 0.01, and the stack of absorber layers comprises N periods, wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10, and the thickness of the absorber tabs=N*tP+tTL. 10. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein the plurality of reflective layer pairs are made from a material selected from molybdenum (Mo) containing material and silicon (Si) containing material and material A and material B are made from a material selected from the group consisting of platinum (Pt), zinc (Zn), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), iridium (Jr), iron (Fe), tin (Sn), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), actinium (Ac), tellurium (Te), antimony (Sb), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), germanium (Ge), magnesium (Mg), tungsten (W), carbon (C), gallium (Ga), and boron (B), and alloys, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides, and oxides thereof. 11. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein the tuning layer comprises material A or material B and has a thickness that is different than tA and wherein adjusting the thickness provides a tunable absorption for the absorber. 12. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein tabs is less than 30 nm. 13. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein material A comprises Ag or Sb and material B comprises Te, Ta, or Ge. 14. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein material A comprises Ag or GaSb and material B comprises ZnTe. 15. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein tA is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and tB is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm. 16. The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank of claim 9, wherein N is in a range of from 2 to 5. 17. An extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography system comprising:
an extreme ultraviolet light source which produces extreme ultraviolet light; a reticle comprising a substrate;
a multilayer stack of reflective layers on the substrate, the multilayer stack of reflective layers including a plurality of reflective layer pairs;
a capping layer on the multilayer stack of reflecting layers;
an absorber comprising tuning layer and a stack of absorber layers, the tuning layer on the capping layer, the tuning layer having a tuning layer thickness tTL; and
the stack of absorber layers including periodic bilayers of a first material A having a thickness tA and a refractive index nA and a second material B having a thickness tB and a refractive index nB, wherein each bilayer defines a period having a thickness tP=tA+tB, material A and B are different materials, wherein there is a difference in magnitude of nA and nB greater than 0.01, and the stack of absorber layers comprises N periods, wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10, and the thickness of the absorber tabs=N*tP+tTL. 18. The EUV lithography system of claim 17, wherein the plurality of reflective layer pairs are made from a material selected from molybdenum (Mo) containing material and silicon (Si) containing material and material A and material B are made from a material selected from the group consisting of platinum (Pt), zinc (Zn), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), iridium (Jr), iron (Fe), tin (Sn), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), actinium (Ac), tellurium (Te), antimony (Sb), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), germanium (Ge), magnesium (Mg), tungsten (W), carbon (C), gallium (Ga), and boron (B), and alloys, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides, and oxides thereof. 19. The EUV lithography system of claim 17, wherein the tuning layer comprises material A or material B and has a thickness that is different than tA and wherein adjusting the thickness provides a tunable absorption for the absorber and wherein tabs is less than 30 nm. 20. The EUV lithography system of claim 17, wherein tA is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and tB is in a range of from 1 nm to 5 nm and wherein N is in a range of from 1 to 10. | 2,100 |
341,317 | 16,801,650 | 2,146 | A semiconductor device includes a first metal plug and an etch stop layer disposed over a semiconductor substrate. The first metal plug has an upper portion protruding from a top surface of the etch stop layer, and a top surface of the upper portion is rounded. The semiconductor device also includes a second metal plug disposed over the first metal plug. The second metal plug is in direct contact with a first sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug and the top surface of the etch stop layer. | 1. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a first metal plug and an etch stop layer disposed over a semiconductor substrate, wherein the first metal plug has an upper portion protruding from a top surface of the etch stop layer, and wherein a top surface of the upper portion is rounded; and a second metal plug disposed over the first metal plug, wherein the second metal plug is in direct contact with a first sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug and the top surface of the etch stop layer. 2. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising:
a first dielectric layer disposed between the semiconductor substrate and the etch stop layer, wherein the first dielectric layer and the etch stop layer surround a lower portion of the first metal plug. 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising:
a second dielectric layer disposed over the etch stop layer, wherein the upper portion of the first metal plug has a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall, and the second dielectric layer is in direct contact with the second sidewall. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 3, wherein the second dielectric layer is separated from the first sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 3, wherein a height of the first sidewall is substantially the same as a height of the second dielectric layer. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 3, further comprising:
a third dielectric layer disposed over the second dielectric layer, wherein the third dielectric layer partially covers the upper portion of the first metal plug. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising:
a silicide layer disposed between the first metal plug and the second metal plug, wherein the top surface of the upper portion of the first metal plug is separated from the second metal plug by the silicide layer. 8. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a first metal plug and a first dielectric layer disposed over a semiconductor substrate; an etch stop layer disposed over the first dielectric layer, wherein the first metal plug has an upper portion protruding from the etch stop layer, the upper portion of the first metal plug has a convex top surface, and the etch stop layer adjoins a lower portion of the first metal plug; a second dielectric layer disposed over the etch stop layer, wherein a topmost point of the convex top surface is higher than a top surface of the second dielectric layer; and a second metal plug disposed over the first metal plug, wherein the second metal plug extends to contact a top surface of the etch stop layer. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the convex top surface is between a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug, and the first sidewall is in direct contact with the second metal plug. 10. The semiconductor device of claim 9, wherein the second sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug is in direct contact with the second dielectric layer. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising:
a third dielectric layer disposed over the second dielectric layer; and a silicide layer disposed between the upper portion of the first metal plug and the second metal plug, wherein the silicide layer extends between the convex top surface of the upper portion of the first metal plug and the third dielectric layer. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the second metal plug and the second dielectric layer are separated by an air gap. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising:
a metal-insulator-metal capacitor disposed over the second metal plug, wherein the metal-insulator-metal capacitor is electrically connected to the first metal plug through the second metal plug. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising:
a bit line disposed over the second metal plug, wherein the bit line is electrically connected to the first metal plug through the second metal plug. 15. A method for forming a semiconductor device, comprising:
forming a first dielectric layer over a semiconductor substrate; forming an etch stop layer over the first dielectric layer; forming a second dielectric layer over the etch stop layer; forming a first metal plug penetrating through the second dielectric layer, the etch stop layer and the first dielectric layer, wherein the first metal plug protrudes from the second dielectric layer; performing an anisotropic etching process to partially remove the first metal plug such that the first metal plug has a convex top surface; forming a third dielectric layer covering the second dielectric layer and the convex top surface of the first metal plug; and forming a second metal plug over the first metal plug, wherein the second metal plug penetrates through the third dielectric layer and extends to contact the etch stop layer. 16. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, wherein, after the anisotropic etching process, an edge of the convex top surface of the first metal plug is in direct contact with a top surface of the second dielectric layer. 17. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, further comprising:
performing a silicidation process to form a silicide layer over the convex top surface of the first metal plug before the third dielectric layer is formed. 18. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 17, wherein a portion of the silicide layer is sandwiched between the third dielectric layer and the first metal plug after the second metal plug is formed. 19. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, wherein the step of forming the second metal plug further comprises:
forming an opening in the third dielectric layer and a gap in the second dielectric layer to partially expose the etch stop layer, wherein the first metal plug has a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall, the first sidewall is exposed by the gap, and the second sidewall is covered by the second dielectric layer; and forming the second metal plug in the opening and the gap such that the second metal plug is in direct contact with the first sidewall. 20. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, further comprising:
forming an energy-removable layer between the second metal plug and the third dielectric layer; forming a conductive layer over the second metal plug, wherein the energy-removable layer is covered by the conductive layer; and performing a heat treatment process to transform the energy-removable layer into an air gap. | A semiconductor device includes a first metal plug and an etch stop layer disposed over a semiconductor substrate. The first metal plug has an upper portion protruding from a top surface of the etch stop layer, and a top surface of the upper portion is rounded. The semiconductor device also includes a second metal plug disposed over the first metal plug. The second metal plug is in direct contact with a first sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug and the top surface of the etch stop layer.1. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a first metal plug and an etch stop layer disposed over a semiconductor substrate, wherein the first metal plug has an upper portion protruding from a top surface of the etch stop layer, and wherein a top surface of the upper portion is rounded; and a second metal plug disposed over the first metal plug, wherein the second metal plug is in direct contact with a first sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug and the top surface of the etch stop layer. 2. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising:
a first dielectric layer disposed between the semiconductor substrate and the etch stop layer, wherein the first dielectric layer and the etch stop layer surround a lower portion of the first metal plug. 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising:
a second dielectric layer disposed over the etch stop layer, wherein the upper portion of the first metal plug has a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall, and the second dielectric layer is in direct contact with the second sidewall. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 3, wherein the second dielectric layer is separated from the first sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 3, wherein a height of the first sidewall is substantially the same as a height of the second dielectric layer. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 3, further comprising:
a third dielectric layer disposed over the second dielectric layer, wherein the third dielectric layer partially covers the upper portion of the first metal plug. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 1, further comprising:
a silicide layer disposed between the first metal plug and the second metal plug, wherein the top surface of the upper portion of the first metal plug is separated from the second metal plug by the silicide layer. 8. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a first metal plug and a first dielectric layer disposed over a semiconductor substrate; an etch stop layer disposed over the first dielectric layer, wherein the first metal plug has an upper portion protruding from the etch stop layer, the upper portion of the first metal plug has a convex top surface, and the etch stop layer adjoins a lower portion of the first metal plug; a second dielectric layer disposed over the etch stop layer, wherein a topmost point of the convex top surface is higher than a top surface of the second dielectric layer; and a second metal plug disposed over the first metal plug, wherein the second metal plug extends to contact a top surface of the etch stop layer. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the convex top surface is between a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug, and the first sidewall is in direct contact with the second metal plug. 10. The semiconductor device of claim 9, wherein the second sidewall of the upper portion of the first metal plug is in direct contact with the second dielectric layer. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising:
a third dielectric layer disposed over the second dielectric layer; and a silicide layer disposed between the upper portion of the first metal plug and the second metal plug, wherein the silicide layer extends between the convex top surface of the upper portion of the first metal plug and the third dielectric layer. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 8, wherein the second metal plug and the second dielectric layer are separated by an air gap. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising:
a metal-insulator-metal capacitor disposed over the second metal plug, wherein the metal-insulator-metal capacitor is electrically connected to the first metal plug through the second metal plug. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising:
a bit line disposed over the second metal plug, wherein the bit line is electrically connected to the first metal plug through the second metal plug. 15. A method for forming a semiconductor device, comprising:
forming a first dielectric layer over a semiconductor substrate; forming an etch stop layer over the first dielectric layer; forming a second dielectric layer over the etch stop layer; forming a first metal plug penetrating through the second dielectric layer, the etch stop layer and the first dielectric layer, wherein the first metal plug protrudes from the second dielectric layer; performing an anisotropic etching process to partially remove the first metal plug such that the first metal plug has a convex top surface; forming a third dielectric layer covering the second dielectric layer and the convex top surface of the first metal plug; and forming a second metal plug over the first metal plug, wherein the second metal plug penetrates through the third dielectric layer and extends to contact the etch stop layer. 16. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, wherein, after the anisotropic etching process, an edge of the convex top surface of the first metal plug is in direct contact with a top surface of the second dielectric layer. 17. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, further comprising:
performing a silicidation process to form a silicide layer over the convex top surface of the first metal plug before the third dielectric layer is formed. 18. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 17, wherein a portion of the silicide layer is sandwiched between the third dielectric layer and the first metal plug after the second metal plug is formed. 19. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, wherein the step of forming the second metal plug further comprises:
forming an opening in the third dielectric layer and a gap in the second dielectric layer to partially expose the etch stop layer, wherein the first metal plug has a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall, the first sidewall is exposed by the gap, and the second sidewall is covered by the second dielectric layer; and forming the second metal plug in the opening and the gap such that the second metal plug is in direct contact with the first sidewall. 20. The method for forming a semiconductor device of claim 15, further comprising:
forming an energy-removable layer between the second metal plug and the third dielectric layer; forming a conductive layer over the second metal plug, wherein the energy-removable layer is covered by the conductive layer; and performing a heat treatment process to transform the energy-removable layer into an air gap. | 2,100 |
341,318 | 16,801,657 | 2,146 | An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a power system providing flight power to the UAV and a frame assembly supporting the power system and including a center frame and an arm assembly. The arm assembly includes an arm connected with the center frame, a deformation rod, and a support rod parallel to the arm. Two ends of the deformation rod are rotatably connected with the arm and the support rod, respectively. The support rod is configured to move translationally relative to the arm while remaining parallel to the arm, so as to be selectively in a folded state or an unfolded state. Each of two ends of the deformation rod forms a first or a second preset angle with one of the arm and the support rod when the support rod is in the folded or unfolded state. The second preset angle is smaller than the first preset angle. | 1. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) comprising:
a power system configured to provide flight power to the UAV; and a frame assembly configured to support the power system and including:
a center frame; and
an arm assembly attached to the center frame, the arm assembly including:
an arm connected with the center frame;
a deformation rod; and
a support rod parallel to the arm;
wherein:
two ends of the deformation rod are rotatably connected with the arm and the support rod, respectively; and
the support rod is configured to move translationally relative to the arm while remaining parallel to the arm, so as to be selectively in:
a folded state in which each of two ends of the deformation rod forms a first preset angle with one of the arm and the support rod; or
a folded state in which each of the two ends of the deformation rod forms a second preset angle with one of the arm and the support rod, the second preset angle being smaller than the first preset angle. 2. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the first preset angle is larger than or equal to 30° and smaller than or equal to 90°, and the second preset angle is smaller than 20°. 3. The UAV of claim 1, wherein:
the arm assembly is one of two arm assemblies of the UAV, the two arm assemblies are located at two sides of the center frame, respectively; and the arms of the two arm assemblies are parallel to each other. 4. The UAV of claim 3, further comprising:
a gimbal assembly mounted under the center frame; wherein the two arm assemblies are located at two sides of the gimbal assembly, respectively. 5. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the deformation rod is one of at least two deformation rods of the arm assembly, and two ends of each of the at least two deformation rods are rotatably connected with the arm and the support rod, respectively. 6. The UAV of claim 5, wherein the at least two deformation rods include two deformation rods. 7. The UAV of claim 5, wherein the at least two deformation rods are parallel to each other. 8. The UAV of claim 5, wherein a distance between two adjacent deformation rods of the at least two deformation rods is equal to or longer than lengths of the two adjacent deformation rods. 9. The UAV of claim 5, further comprising:
a driving mechanism configured to:
drive the at least two deformation rods to rotate to approach or move away from the arm; or
drive the support rod to move translationally relative to the arm to the folded state or unfolded state. 10. The UAV of claim 9, wherein the driving mechanism is configured to drive the at least two deformation rods to rotate in a same direction. 11. The UAV of claim 5, wherein the at least two deformation rods are cross arranged. 12. The UAV of claim 1, further comprising:
a driving mechanism configured to:
drive the deformation rod to rotate to approach or move away from the arm; or
drive the support rod to move translationally relative to the arm to the folded state or unfolded state. 13. The UAV of claim 1, wherein when the support rod is in the folded state, the deformation rod is sandwiched between the arm and the support rod, and two sides of the deformation rod completely fit to the arm and the support rod, respectively. 14. The UAV of claim 1, further comprising:
a connection rod fixedly connecting the arm to the center frame. 15. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the deformation rod is configured to rotate around a perpendicular line perpendicular to the support rod, so that the support rod approaches or moves away from the arm. 16. The UAV of claim 15, wherein the deformation rod is further configured to rotate around a center axial line of the arm to adjust an angle between the deformation rod and the perpendicular line. 17. The UAV of claim 1, further comprising:
a gimbal assembly mounted under the center frame. 18. The UAV of claim 17, wherein:
the gimbal assembly includes a gimbal connected at a bottom of the center frame and a photographing device carried by the gimbal; and the arm assembly is configured to be above the photographing device when the support rod is in the folded state. 19. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the deformation rod and the support rod are under the arm. | An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a power system providing flight power to the UAV and a frame assembly supporting the power system and including a center frame and an arm assembly. The arm assembly includes an arm connected with the center frame, a deformation rod, and a support rod parallel to the arm. Two ends of the deformation rod are rotatably connected with the arm and the support rod, respectively. The support rod is configured to move translationally relative to the arm while remaining parallel to the arm, so as to be selectively in a folded state or an unfolded state. Each of two ends of the deformation rod forms a first or a second preset angle with one of the arm and the support rod when the support rod is in the folded or unfolded state. The second preset angle is smaller than the first preset angle.1. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) comprising:
a power system configured to provide flight power to the UAV; and a frame assembly configured to support the power system and including:
a center frame; and
an arm assembly attached to the center frame, the arm assembly including:
an arm connected with the center frame;
a deformation rod; and
a support rod parallel to the arm;
wherein:
two ends of the deformation rod are rotatably connected with the arm and the support rod, respectively; and
the support rod is configured to move translationally relative to the arm while remaining parallel to the arm, so as to be selectively in:
a folded state in which each of two ends of the deformation rod forms a first preset angle with one of the arm and the support rod; or
a folded state in which each of the two ends of the deformation rod forms a second preset angle with one of the arm and the support rod, the second preset angle being smaller than the first preset angle. 2. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the first preset angle is larger than or equal to 30° and smaller than or equal to 90°, and the second preset angle is smaller than 20°. 3. The UAV of claim 1, wherein:
the arm assembly is one of two arm assemblies of the UAV, the two arm assemblies are located at two sides of the center frame, respectively; and the arms of the two arm assemblies are parallel to each other. 4. The UAV of claim 3, further comprising:
a gimbal assembly mounted under the center frame; wherein the two arm assemblies are located at two sides of the gimbal assembly, respectively. 5. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the deformation rod is one of at least two deformation rods of the arm assembly, and two ends of each of the at least two deformation rods are rotatably connected with the arm and the support rod, respectively. 6. The UAV of claim 5, wherein the at least two deformation rods include two deformation rods. 7. The UAV of claim 5, wherein the at least two deformation rods are parallel to each other. 8. The UAV of claim 5, wherein a distance between two adjacent deformation rods of the at least two deformation rods is equal to or longer than lengths of the two adjacent deformation rods. 9. The UAV of claim 5, further comprising:
a driving mechanism configured to:
drive the at least two deformation rods to rotate to approach or move away from the arm; or
drive the support rod to move translationally relative to the arm to the folded state or unfolded state. 10. The UAV of claim 9, wherein the driving mechanism is configured to drive the at least two deformation rods to rotate in a same direction. 11. The UAV of claim 5, wherein the at least two deformation rods are cross arranged. 12. The UAV of claim 1, further comprising:
a driving mechanism configured to:
drive the deformation rod to rotate to approach or move away from the arm; or
drive the support rod to move translationally relative to the arm to the folded state or unfolded state. 13. The UAV of claim 1, wherein when the support rod is in the folded state, the deformation rod is sandwiched between the arm and the support rod, and two sides of the deformation rod completely fit to the arm and the support rod, respectively. 14. The UAV of claim 1, further comprising:
a connection rod fixedly connecting the arm to the center frame. 15. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the deformation rod is configured to rotate around a perpendicular line perpendicular to the support rod, so that the support rod approaches or moves away from the arm. 16. The UAV of claim 15, wherein the deformation rod is further configured to rotate around a center axial line of the arm to adjust an angle between the deformation rod and the perpendicular line. 17. The UAV of claim 1, further comprising:
a gimbal assembly mounted under the center frame. 18. The UAV of claim 17, wherein:
the gimbal assembly includes a gimbal connected at a bottom of the center frame and a photographing device carried by the gimbal; and the arm assembly is configured to be above the photographing device when the support rod is in the folded state. 19. The UAV of claim 1, wherein the deformation rod and the support rod are under the arm. | 2,100 |
341,319 | 16,801,649 | 2,146 | Sheet sets are disclosed herein that comprise a fitted sheet adapted to be placed over a mattress, a top sheet adapted to be placed atop the fitted sheet and having a first width, a sheet extension extending from a first edge of the top sheet and having a second width, wherein the second width is shorter than the first width, and at least one fastening device adapted to couple the top sheet to the fitted sheet. | 1. A sheet set, comprising:
a fitted sheet comprising a top portion and four side portions, each side portion coupled to the top portion via one or more fitted sheet elastic strips, the fitted sheet adapted to be placed over a mattress; a top sheet adapted to be placed atop the fitted sheet and having a first width; a rectangular sheet extension coupled to a first edge of the top sheet via a top sheet elastic strip and having a second width, wherein the second width is shorter than the first width; and at least one fastening device adapted to couple the top sheet to the fitted sheet. 2. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device is a button coupled to a foot of the fitted sheet and is adapted to engage a button hole in the sheet extension. 3. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device is a button coupled to the sheet extension and is adapted to engage a button hole in a foot of the fitted sheet. 4. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening is adapted to engage both a button hole in a foot of the fitted sheet and a button hole in the sheet extension. 5. The sheet set of claim 1, further comprising a cutout on each side of sheet extension and adapted to allow the top sheet to lay flat on top of the fitted sheet. 6. The sheet set of claim 5, wherein the top sheet lays flat without bunching or overlapping in the corners. 7. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device only couples a foot of the fitted sheet to the sheet extension. 8. The sheet set of claim 1, further comprising a securement device coupled to one or more edges of the fitted sheet adapted to secure the fitted sheet to the mattress. 9. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the top sheet, without the sheet extension, has a length equal to a length of the mattress. 10. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device is positioned along a foot side of the mattress. 11. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the sheet extension has a length equal to the depth of the mattress. 12. The sheet set of claim 1, further comprising one of a comforter and a duvet cover. 13. The sheet set of claim 12, wherein the at least one fastening device is adapted to engage a hole in the comforter or duvet cover. 14. The sheet set of claim 12, wherein the duvet cover comprises an extension with at least one hole adapted to receive the at least one fastening device. | Sheet sets are disclosed herein that comprise a fitted sheet adapted to be placed over a mattress, a top sheet adapted to be placed atop the fitted sheet and having a first width, a sheet extension extending from a first edge of the top sheet and having a second width, wherein the second width is shorter than the first width, and at least one fastening device adapted to couple the top sheet to the fitted sheet.1. A sheet set, comprising:
a fitted sheet comprising a top portion and four side portions, each side portion coupled to the top portion via one or more fitted sheet elastic strips, the fitted sheet adapted to be placed over a mattress; a top sheet adapted to be placed atop the fitted sheet and having a first width; a rectangular sheet extension coupled to a first edge of the top sheet via a top sheet elastic strip and having a second width, wherein the second width is shorter than the first width; and at least one fastening device adapted to couple the top sheet to the fitted sheet. 2. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device is a button coupled to a foot of the fitted sheet and is adapted to engage a button hole in the sheet extension. 3. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device is a button coupled to the sheet extension and is adapted to engage a button hole in a foot of the fitted sheet. 4. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening is adapted to engage both a button hole in a foot of the fitted sheet and a button hole in the sheet extension. 5. The sheet set of claim 1, further comprising a cutout on each side of sheet extension and adapted to allow the top sheet to lay flat on top of the fitted sheet. 6. The sheet set of claim 5, wherein the top sheet lays flat without bunching or overlapping in the corners. 7. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device only couples a foot of the fitted sheet to the sheet extension. 8. The sheet set of claim 1, further comprising a securement device coupled to one or more edges of the fitted sheet adapted to secure the fitted sheet to the mattress. 9. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the top sheet, without the sheet extension, has a length equal to a length of the mattress. 10. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening device is positioned along a foot side of the mattress. 11. The sheet set of claim 1, wherein the sheet extension has a length equal to the depth of the mattress. 12. The sheet set of claim 1, further comprising one of a comforter and a duvet cover. 13. The sheet set of claim 12, wherein the at least one fastening device is adapted to engage a hole in the comforter or duvet cover. 14. The sheet set of claim 12, wherein the duvet cover comprises an extension with at least one hole adapted to receive the at least one fastening device. | 2,100 |
341,320 | 16,801,660 | 2,146 | An imaging gantry is provided that includes a C-arm having a detector mounted within the diameter of the C-arm at one end, and an X-ray tube mounted to the opposite end of the C-arm. The detector includes a retractable detector arm that is pivotally mounted to the C-arm at one end and has the detector mounted to the retractable detector arm opposite the C-arm. The detector is secured to a support plate that is attached to the planetary drive mechanism on the detector arm, such that the support plate swivels with the planetary drive mechanism to maintain the alignment of the support plate and detector relative to the X-ray tube. The detector arm also includes a lateral compensation mechanism disposed on the detector arm and engaged with the detector that operates in synchronization with the motor pivoting the detector arm to laterally displace the detector in order to maintain the alignment of the detector with the X-ray tube. | 1. A detector positioning mechanism adapted to selectively position a detector in alignment with an X-ray tube on an imaging device, the detector positioning mechanism comprising:
a positioning arm adapted to be pivotally secured to the imaging device; a detector support plate pivotally connected to the positioning arm; and an arm movement mechanism engaged with the positioning arm to selectively move the positioning arm with regard to the imaging device. 2. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 1 wherein the arm movement mechanism is a planetary belt drive. 3. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 2 wherein the planetary belt drive comprises:
a stationary pulley disposed generally opposite the support plate and adapted to be secured to the imaging device;
a rotating pulley secured to the support plate and rotatably attached to the positioning arm; and
a belt connected between the stationary pulley and the rotating pulley. 4. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 3 wherein the planetary belt drive further includes a motor operably connected to the positioning arm and operable to rotate the positioning arm relative to the stationary pulley. 5. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 4 wherein the planetary belt drive further includes a number of idler pulleys disposed on the positioning arm between the stationary pulley and the rotatable pulley and engaged with the belt. 6. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 1 further comprising a lateral compensation mechanism operably connected between the arm movement mechanism and the support plate. 7. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 6 wherein the lateral compensation mechanism is an electrical lateral compensation mechanism. 8. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 6 wherein the lateral compensation mechanism is a mechanical lateral compensation mechanism. 9. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 8 wherein the mechanical lateral compensation mechanism comprises:
a cam disposed on the detector support plate and engaged with the arm movement mechanism;
a detector mounting plate slidably secured to the detector support plate;
a follower disposed on the detector mounting plate and engaged with the cam. 10. An imaging device comprising:
a gantry; a C-arm movably connected to the gantry; an X-ray tube disposed at one end of the C-arm; a detector disposed on the C-arm opposite the X-ray tube; and a detector positioning mechanism connecting the detector to the C-arm, the detector positioning mechanism comprising:
a positioning arm pivotally secured to the C-arm;
a detector support plate pivotally connected to the positioning arm opposite the C-arm; and
an arm movement mechanism engaged between the C-arm and the positioning arm to selectively move the positioning arm with regard to the C-arm. 11. The imaging device of claim 10 further comprising a lateral compensation mechanism operably connected between the arm movement mechanism and the detector support plate. 12. The imaging device of claim 11 wherein the lateral compensation mechanism comprises:
a cam disposed on the detector support plate and engaged with the arm movement mechanism;
a detector mounting plate slidably secured to the detector support plate;
a follower disposed on the detector mounting plate and engaged with the cam. 13. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the arm movement mechanism is a planetary belt drive. 14. The imaging device of claim 13 wherein the planetary belt drive comprises:
a stationary pulley secured to the C-arm;
a first pivot pin rotatably engaged with the C-arm, the first pivot pin extending through the stationary pulley and fixed to the positioning arm;
a second pivot pin rotatably attached to the positioning arm opposite the first pivot pin, the second pivot pin extending through a rotating pulley secured to the support plate and; and
a belt connected between the stationary pulley and the rotating pulley. 15. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the positioning arm is retractable within the C-arm. 16. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the detector is disposed completely within a diameter of the C-arm. 17. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the tube is disposed completely within a diameter of the C-arm. 18. A method of obtaining images of an object with an imaging device, the method comprising the steps of:
providing an imaging device including a gantry, a C-arm movably connected to the gantry, an X-ray tube disposed at one end of the C-arm, a detector disposed on the C-arm opposite the X-ray tube completely within a diameter of the C-arm and a detector positioning mechanism connecting the detector to the C-arm, the detector positioning mechanism comprising:
a positioning arm pivotally secured to the C-arm;
a detector support plate pivotally connected to the positioning arm opposite the C-arm; and
an arm movement mechanism engaged between the C-arm and the positioning arm to selectively move the positioning arm with regard to the C-arm;
moving the positioning arm to locate the detector where desired relative to the object; and taking an image of the object. 19. The method of claim 18 wherein the imaging device further includes a lateral compensation mechanism disposed on the support plate, and wherein the step of moving the positioning arm further comprises operating the lateral compensation mechanism to align the detector with the X-ray tube. 20. The method of claim 18 wherein the step of moving the positioning arm further comprises moving the C-arm within an arc of at least +/−90° relative to the frame. | An imaging gantry is provided that includes a C-arm having a detector mounted within the diameter of the C-arm at one end, and an X-ray tube mounted to the opposite end of the C-arm. The detector includes a retractable detector arm that is pivotally mounted to the C-arm at one end and has the detector mounted to the retractable detector arm opposite the C-arm. The detector is secured to a support plate that is attached to the planetary drive mechanism on the detector arm, such that the support plate swivels with the planetary drive mechanism to maintain the alignment of the support plate and detector relative to the X-ray tube. The detector arm also includes a lateral compensation mechanism disposed on the detector arm and engaged with the detector that operates in synchronization with the motor pivoting the detector arm to laterally displace the detector in order to maintain the alignment of the detector with the X-ray tube.1. A detector positioning mechanism adapted to selectively position a detector in alignment with an X-ray tube on an imaging device, the detector positioning mechanism comprising:
a positioning arm adapted to be pivotally secured to the imaging device; a detector support plate pivotally connected to the positioning arm; and an arm movement mechanism engaged with the positioning arm to selectively move the positioning arm with regard to the imaging device. 2. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 1 wherein the arm movement mechanism is a planetary belt drive. 3. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 2 wherein the planetary belt drive comprises:
a stationary pulley disposed generally opposite the support plate and adapted to be secured to the imaging device;
a rotating pulley secured to the support plate and rotatably attached to the positioning arm; and
a belt connected between the stationary pulley and the rotating pulley. 4. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 3 wherein the planetary belt drive further includes a motor operably connected to the positioning arm and operable to rotate the positioning arm relative to the stationary pulley. 5. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 4 wherein the planetary belt drive further includes a number of idler pulleys disposed on the positioning arm between the stationary pulley and the rotatable pulley and engaged with the belt. 6. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 1 further comprising a lateral compensation mechanism operably connected between the arm movement mechanism and the support plate. 7. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 6 wherein the lateral compensation mechanism is an electrical lateral compensation mechanism. 8. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 6 wherein the lateral compensation mechanism is a mechanical lateral compensation mechanism. 9. The detector positioning mechanism of claim 8 wherein the mechanical lateral compensation mechanism comprises:
a cam disposed on the detector support plate and engaged with the arm movement mechanism;
a detector mounting plate slidably secured to the detector support plate;
a follower disposed on the detector mounting plate and engaged with the cam. 10. An imaging device comprising:
a gantry; a C-arm movably connected to the gantry; an X-ray tube disposed at one end of the C-arm; a detector disposed on the C-arm opposite the X-ray tube; and a detector positioning mechanism connecting the detector to the C-arm, the detector positioning mechanism comprising:
a positioning arm pivotally secured to the C-arm;
a detector support plate pivotally connected to the positioning arm opposite the C-arm; and
an arm movement mechanism engaged between the C-arm and the positioning arm to selectively move the positioning arm with regard to the C-arm. 11. The imaging device of claim 10 further comprising a lateral compensation mechanism operably connected between the arm movement mechanism and the detector support plate. 12. The imaging device of claim 11 wherein the lateral compensation mechanism comprises:
a cam disposed on the detector support plate and engaged with the arm movement mechanism;
a detector mounting plate slidably secured to the detector support plate;
a follower disposed on the detector mounting plate and engaged with the cam. 13. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the arm movement mechanism is a planetary belt drive. 14. The imaging device of claim 13 wherein the planetary belt drive comprises:
a stationary pulley secured to the C-arm;
a first pivot pin rotatably engaged with the C-arm, the first pivot pin extending through the stationary pulley and fixed to the positioning arm;
a second pivot pin rotatably attached to the positioning arm opposite the first pivot pin, the second pivot pin extending through a rotating pulley secured to the support plate and; and
a belt connected between the stationary pulley and the rotating pulley. 15. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the positioning arm is retractable within the C-arm. 16. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the detector is disposed completely within a diameter of the C-arm. 17. The imaging device of claim 10 wherein the tube is disposed completely within a diameter of the C-arm. 18. A method of obtaining images of an object with an imaging device, the method comprising the steps of:
providing an imaging device including a gantry, a C-arm movably connected to the gantry, an X-ray tube disposed at one end of the C-arm, a detector disposed on the C-arm opposite the X-ray tube completely within a diameter of the C-arm and a detector positioning mechanism connecting the detector to the C-arm, the detector positioning mechanism comprising:
a positioning arm pivotally secured to the C-arm;
a detector support plate pivotally connected to the positioning arm opposite the C-arm; and
an arm movement mechanism engaged between the C-arm and the positioning arm to selectively move the positioning arm with regard to the C-arm;
moving the positioning arm to locate the detector where desired relative to the object; and taking an image of the object. 19. The method of claim 18 wherein the imaging device further includes a lateral compensation mechanism disposed on the support plate, and wherein the step of moving the positioning arm further comprises operating the lateral compensation mechanism to align the detector with the X-ray tube. 20. The method of claim 18 wherein the step of moving the positioning arm further comprises moving the C-arm within an arc of at least +/−90° relative to the frame. | 2,100 |
341,321 | 16,801,655 | 2,146 | In one aspect, a system for determining an initial angular position of a rotor of a synchronous machine includes a motor driver module configured to provide a motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine, the motor driver voltage signal being sufficient to induce an electrical current in the synchronous machine; and a rotor position determination module configured to receive an indication of the current generated in the machine and to determine the initial position of the rotor based on the indication of the current generated in the machine. The motor driver voltage signal includes at least a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, the first portion has a first non-zero voltage during a first temporal duration, the second portion has a second non-zero voltage during a second temporal duration, and the third portion has a substantially zero voltage during a third temporal duration, the first portion has a first polarity and the second portion has a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity, and the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration are different. | 1. A system for determining an initial angular position of a rotor of a synchronous machine, the system comprising:
a motor driver module configured to provide a motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine, the motor driver voltage signal being sufficient to induce an electrical current in the synchronous machine; and a rotor position determination module configured to receive an indication of the current induced in the machine and to determine the initial position of the rotor based on the indication of the current induced in the machine, wherein
the motor driver voltage signal comprises at least a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion,
the first portion has a first non-zero voltage during a first temporal duration, the second portion has a second non-zero voltage during a second temporal duration, and the third portion has a substantially zero voltage during a third temporal duration,
the first portion has a first polarity and the second portion has a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity, and
the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration are different. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the third temporal duration is different from the first temporal duration or the second temporal duration. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the third temporal duration is different from the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first non-zero voltage and the second non-zero voltage are different. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein
the motor driver voltage signal comprises a first segment and a second segment that occurs before or after the first segment, the first segment comprises the first portion and the second portion, the second segment comprises a fourth portion and a fifth portion, the fourth portion has the first non-zero voltage, the first temporal duration, and the second polarity, and the fifth portion having the second non-zero voltage and the first polarity. 6. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a modulation apparatus configured to receive electrical power from a direct-current power source and to convert the electrical power into the motor driver voltage signal. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the indication of the current induced in the synchronous machine comprises an indication of a current drawn by each of three phases of the synchronous machine, and the rotor position determining module comprises:
a transformation module configured to convert the indication into a d-axis current component and a q-axis current component, the d-axis current component and the q-axis current component being associated with a rotating rectangular coordinate system defined by a d-axis and a q-axis; a regulator module configured to compare the q-axis current component to a reference and to determine a first estimate of a rotational angle of the rotor; a comparator module configured to compare the d-axis current component to a prior d-axis current component and to determine a direction of rotation of the rotor based on the comparison; and a position determination module configured to estimate the position of the rotor based on the first estimate of the rotational angle of the rotor and the direction of rotation of the rotor. 8. A method of determining an initial angular position of a rotor in a synchronous machine, the method comprising:
generating a motor driver voltage signal comprising at least a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, wherein the first portion has a first non-zero voltage during a first temporal duration, the second portion has a second non-zero voltage during a second temporal duration, and the third portion has a substantially zero voltage during a third temporal duration; the first portion has a first polarity and the second portion has a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity; and the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration are different; applying the motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine; measuring an induced current in the motor after applying the motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine; and determining the initial angular position of the rotor based on the measured induced current. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein measuring an induced current comprises measuring an induced current in each of three phases, and the method further comprises:
determining a q-axis current component from the measured induced current in each of the three phases; determining an error metric by comparing the determined q-axis current component to a reference q-axis current component; regulating the q-axis current to reduce the error metric; determining whether the error metric is less than a threshold error metric for a test temporal period; if the error metric is less than the threshold error metric for the test temporal period, determining a direction of rotation of the rotor; and if the error metric is not less than the threshold error metric for the test temporal period, applying the motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein determining a direction of rotation of the rotor comprises comparing the d-axis current component to a previous d-axis current component. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the reference q-axis current component comprises a value of zero. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the first non-zero voltage and the second non-zero voltages are different. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein:
the motor driver voltage signal comprises a first segment and a second segment that occurs before or after the first segment, the first segment comprises the first portion and the second portion, the second segment comprises a fourth portion and a fifth portion, the fourth portion has the first non-zero voltage, the first temporal duration, and the second polarity, and the fifth portion having the second non-zero voltage and the first polarity. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first non-zero voltage and the second non-zero voltages are different. | In one aspect, a system for determining an initial angular position of a rotor of a synchronous machine includes a motor driver module configured to provide a motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine, the motor driver voltage signal being sufficient to induce an electrical current in the synchronous machine; and a rotor position determination module configured to receive an indication of the current generated in the machine and to determine the initial position of the rotor based on the indication of the current generated in the machine. The motor driver voltage signal includes at least a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, the first portion has a first non-zero voltage during a first temporal duration, the second portion has a second non-zero voltage during a second temporal duration, and the third portion has a substantially zero voltage during a third temporal duration, the first portion has a first polarity and the second portion has a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity, and the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration are different.1. A system for determining an initial angular position of a rotor of a synchronous machine, the system comprising:
a motor driver module configured to provide a motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine, the motor driver voltage signal being sufficient to induce an electrical current in the synchronous machine; and a rotor position determination module configured to receive an indication of the current induced in the machine and to determine the initial position of the rotor based on the indication of the current induced in the machine, wherein
the motor driver voltage signal comprises at least a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion,
the first portion has a first non-zero voltage during a first temporal duration, the second portion has a second non-zero voltage during a second temporal duration, and the third portion has a substantially zero voltage during a third temporal duration,
the first portion has a first polarity and the second portion has a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity, and
the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration are different. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the third temporal duration is different from the first temporal duration or the second temporal duration. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the third temporal duration is different from the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first non-zero voltage and the second non-zero voltage are different. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein
the motor driver voltage signal comprises a first segment and a second segment that occurs before or after the first segment, the first segment comprises the first portion and the second portion, the second segment comprises a fourth portion and a fifth portion, the fourth portion has the first non-zero voltage, the first temporal duration, and the second polarity, and the fifth portion having the second non-zero voltage and the first polarity. 6. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a modulation apparatus configured to receive electrical power from a direct-current power source and to convert the electrical power into the motor driver voltage signal. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the indication of the current induced in the synchronous machine comprises an indication of a current drawn by each of three phases of the synchronous machine, and the rotor position determining module comprises:
a transformation module configured to convert the indication into a d-axis current component and a q-axis current component, the d-axis current component and the q-axis current component being associated with a rotating rectangular coordinate system defined by a d-axis and a q-axis; a regulator module configured to compare the q-axis current component to a reference and to determine a first estimate of a rotational angle of the rotor; a comparator module configured to compare the d-axis current component to a prior d-axis current component and to determine a direction of rotation of the rotor based on the comparison; and a position determination module configured to estimate the position of the rotor based on the first estimate of the rotational angle of the rotor and the direction of rotation of the rotor. 8. A method of determining an initial angular position of a rotor in a synchronous machine, the method comprising:
generating a motor driver voltage signal comprising at least a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, wherein the first portion has a first non-zero voltage during a first temporal duration, the second portion has a second non-zero voltage during a second temporal duration, and the third portion has a substantially zero voltage during a third temporal duration; the first portion has a first polarity and the second portion has a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity; and the first temporal duration and the second temporal duration are different; applying the motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine; measuring an induced current in the motor after applying the motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine; and determining the initial angular position of the rotor based on the measured induced current. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein measuring an induced current comprises measuring an induced current in each of three phases, and the method further comprises:
determining a q-axis current component from the measured induced current in each of the three phases; determining an error metric by comparing the determined q-axis current component to a reference q-axis current component; regulating the q-axis current to reduce the error metric; determining whether the error metric is less than a threshold error metric for a test temporal period; if the error metric is less than the threshold error metric for the test temporal period, determining a direction of rotation of the rotor; and if the error metric is not less than the threshold error metric for the test temporal period, applying the motor driver voltage signal to the synchronous machine. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein determining a direction of rotation of the rotor comprises comparing the d-axis current component to a previous d-axis current component. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the reference q-axis current component comprises a value of zero. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the first non-zero voltage and the second non-zero voltages are different. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein:
the motor driver voltage signal comprises a first segment and a second segment that occurs before or after the first segment, the first segment comprises the first portion and the second portion, the second segment comprises a fourth portion and a fifth portion, the fourth portion has the first non-zero voltage, the first temporal duration, and the second polarity, and the fifth portion having the second non-zero voltage and the first polarity. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first non-zero voltage and the second non-zero voltages are different. | 2,100 |
341,322 | 16,801,659 | 2,146 | A method and system for evaluating the interior surface and exterior wall conditions of a pipeline while also dynamically installing a repair coating in a pipeline, such as an underground water pipeline. The system is towed into the pipeline and drawn back therethrough. As the system is drawn back, one module in the system evaluates the surface condition of the interior of the pipe and another module evaluates the structural condition of the wall of the pipe. Based on the evaluation data obtained from the two modules an epoxy material is applied to the interior surface of the pipe using a spin cast machine that is drawn behind the two modules. Preferably, a layer of epoxy is applied to the interior surface of the host pipe to the appropriate thickness based on the pipe condition as determined by the two modules. | 1. An apparatus for inspecting and coating interior surface walls of a pipe system comprising:
a plurality of housings; an umbilical tether for towing said housings through said pipe system and connecting said housings to one another; scanning equipment for evaluating a condition of interior surface walls and a structural condition of said pipe system contained in a first of said housings; and a coating device contained in a second of said housings to apply a coating to said interior surface of said pipe system in response to the evaluations performed by said scanning equipment. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said housings are spherical. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said scanning equipment is selected from the group consisting of: cameras, laser scanners and sonar. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
a control computer connected to said umbilical tether, said control computer receiving and recording data about the condition of said pipeline from said scanning equipment. 5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said control computer controls a rate of application of said coating device based on the condition of said pipeline. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said coating device is a spinning spray head. 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said umbilical tether is used for towing said apparatus, transmitting data between a control computer and said apparatus and supplying coating material to said coating device. 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said housings are in spaced apart relation and connected via said umbilical tether allowing said apparatus to be flexible. 9. A method of lining the interior surface walls of a pipe system comprising:
towing a pipe coating system including scanning equipment and a coating device through a pipeline to be repaired; evaluating a condition of interior surface walls and a structural condition of the wall of said pipe system using said scanning equipment; and applying a coating to said interior surface of said pipe system in response to the evaluations performed by said scanning equipment. 10. The method of claim 9, said coating system further comprising:
a plurality of housings, said scanning equipment in a first housing, said coating device in a second housing, and an umbilical tether for towing said housings through said pipe system and connecting said housings to one another. 11. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
towing a pipe liner sleeve into said pipeline behind said pipe coating system. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein said scanning equipment is selected from the group consisting of: cameras, laser scanners and sonar. 13. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
a control computer connected to said umbilical tether, said control computer receiving and recording data about the condition of said pipeline from said scanning equipment. 14. The method of claim 13 wherein said control computer controls a rate of application of said coating device based on the condition of said pipeline. | A method and system for evaluating the interior surface and exterior wall conditions of a pipeline while also dynamically installing a repair coating in a pipeline, such as an underground water pipeline. The system is towed into the pipeline and drawn back therethrough. As the system is drawn back, one module in the system evaluates the surface condition of the interior of the pipe and another module evaluates the structural condition of the wall of the pipe. Based on the evaluation data obtained from the two modules an epoxy material is applied to the interior surface of the pipe using a spin cast machine that is drawn behind the two modules. Preferably, a layer of epoxy is applied to the interior surface of the host pipe to the appropriate thickness based on the pipe condition as determined by the two modules.1. An apparatus for inspecting and coating interior surface walls of a pipe system comprising:
a plurality of housings; an umbilical tether for towing said housings through said pipe system and connecting said housings to one another; scanning equipment for evaluating a condition of interior surface walls and a structural condition of said pipe system contained in a first of said housings; and a coating device contained in a second of said housings to apply a coating to said interior surface of said pipe system in response to the evaluations performed by said scanning equipment. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said housings are spherical. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said scanning equipment is selected from the group consisting of: cameras, laser scanners and sonar. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
a control computer connected to said umbilical tether, said control computer receiving and recording data about the condition of said pipeline from said scanning equipment. 5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said control computer controls a rate of application of said coating device based on the condition of said pipeline. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said coating device is a spinning spray head. 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said umbilical tether is used for towing said apparatus, transmitting data between a control computer and said apparatus and supplying coating material to said coating device. 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said housings are in spaced apart relation and connected via said umbilical tether allowing said apparatus to be flexible. 9. A method of lining the interior surface walls of a pipe system comprising:
towing a pipe coating system including scanning equipment and a coating device through a pipeline to be repaired; evaluating a condition of interior surface walls and a structural condition of the wall of said pipe system using said scanning equipment; and applying a coating to said interior surface of said pipe system in response to the evaluations performed by said scanning equipment. 10. The method of claim 9, said coating system further comprising:
a plurality of housings, said scanning equipment in a first housing, said coating device in a second housing, and an umbilical tether for towing said housings through said pipe system and connecting said housings to one another. 11. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
towing a pipe liner sleeve into said pipeline behind said pipe coating system. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein said scanning equipment is selected from the group consisting of: cameras, laser scanners and sonar. 13. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
a control computer connected to said umbilical tether, said control computer receiving and recording data about the condition of said pipeline from said scanning equipment. 14. The method of claim 13 wherein said control computer controls a rate of application of said coating device based on the condition of said pipeline. | 2,100 |
341,323 | 16,801,661 | 3,636 | A cushioned stadium seat cover for providing a comfortable and sanitary covering on stadium seats includes a cushion bottom cushion coupled within a bottom cushion pocket. A bottom support pocket is coupled to the bottom cushion pocket to selectively receive a seat bottom of a stadium seat. A connector is coupled to the bottom cushion pocket and a top cushion pocket is coupled to the connector. A top cushion is coupled within a top cushion pocket. A top support pocket is coupled to the top cushion pocket to selectively receive a seat top of the stadium seat. | 1. A cushioned stadium seat cover comprising:
a bottom cushion pocket having a bottom cushion pocket back side, a bottom cushion pocket front side, a bottom cushion pocket left side, a bottom cushion pocket right side, a bottom cushion pocket top side, and a bottom cushion pocket bottom side; a bottom cushion coupled within the bottom cushion pocket; a bottom support pocket coupled to the bottom cushion pocket, the bottom support pocket being coupled to the bottom cushion pocket bottom side and the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat bottom of a stadium seat; a connector coupled to the bottom cushion pocket; a top cushion pocket coupled to the connector, the top cushion pocket having a top cushion pocket back side, a top cushion pocket front side, a top cushion pocket left side, a top cushion pocket right side, a top cushion pocket top side, and a top cushion pocket bottom side; a top cushion coupled within the top cushion pocket; a top support pocket coupled to the top cushion pocket, the top support pocket being coupled to the top cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket back side, the top support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat top of the stadium seat; and a pouch coupled to the bottom cushion pocket, the pouch having a rear face of a pouch back side coupled to the bottom cushion pocket front side wherein an entirety of an opening into the pouch is positioned forwardly of the bottom cushion front side, the pouch further having a pouch left side, a pouch right side, a pouch front side, and a pouch bottom side defining pouch inside. 2. The cushioned stadium seat cover of claim 1 further comprising the connector being coupled between the bottom cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket front side. 3. (canceled) 4. (canceled) 5. (canceled) 6. The cushioned stadium seat cover of claim 1 further comprising the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom cushion pocket top side, the bottom support pocket, the connector, the top cushion pocket front side, the top cushion pocket top side, and the top support pocket being a one-piece construction. 7. (canceled) 8. A cushioned stadium seat cover comprising:
a bottom cushion pocket having a bottom cushion pocket back side, a bottom cushion pocket front side, a bottom cushion pocket left side, a bottom cushion pocket right side, a bottom cushion pocket top side, and a bottom cushion pocket bottom side; a bottom cushion coupled within the bottom cushion pocket; a bottom support pocket coupled to the bottom cushion pocket, the bottom support pocket being coupled to the bottom cushion pocket bottom side and the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat bottom of a stadium seat; a connector coupled to the bottom cushion pocket; a top cushion pocket coupled to the connector, the top cushion pocket having a top cushion pocket back side, a top cushion pocket front side, a top cushion pocket left side, a top cushion pocket right side, a top cushion pocket top side, and a top cushion pocket bottom side, the connector being coupled between the bottom cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket front side; a top cushion coupled within the top cushion pocket; a top support pocket coupled to the top cushion pocket, the top support pocket being coupled to the top cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket back side, the top support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat top of the stadium seat, the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom cushion pocket top side, the bottom support pocket, the connector, the top cushion pocket front side, the top cushion pocket top side, and the top support pocket being a one-piece construction; and a pouch having a rear face of a pouch back side coupled to the bottom cushion pocket front side wherein an entirety of an opening into the pouch is positioned forwardly of the bottom cushion front side, the pouch further having a a pouch left side, a pouch right side, a pouch front side, and a pouch bottom side defining a pouch inside. | A cushioned stadium seat cover for providing a comfortable and sanitary covering on stadium seats includes a cushion bottom cushion coupled within a bottom cushion pocket. A bottom support pocket is coupled to the bottom cushion pocket to selectively receive a seat bottom of a stadium seat. A connector is coupled to the bottom cushion pocket and a top cushion pocket is coupled to the connector. A top cushion is coupled within a top cushion pocket. A top support pocket is coupled to the top cushion pocket to selectively receive a seat top of the stadium seat.1. A cushioned stadium seat cover comprising:
a bottom cushion pocket having a bottom cushion pocket back side, a bottom cushion pocket front side, a bottom cushion pocket left side, a bottom cushion pocket right side, a bottom cushion pocket top side, and a bottom cushion pocket bottom side; a bottom cushion coupled within the bottom cushion pocket; a bottom support pocket coupled to the bottom cushion pocket, the bottom support pocket being coupled to the bottom cushion pocket bottom side and the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat bottom of a stadium seat; a connector coupled to the bottom cushion pocket; a top cushion pocket coupled to the connector, the top cushion pocket having a top cushion pocket back side, a top cushion pocket front side, a top cushion pocket left side, a top cushion pocket right side, a top cushion pocket top side, and a top cushion pocket bottom side; a top cushion coupled within the top cushion pocket; a top support pocket coupled to the top cushion pocket, the top support pocket being coupled to the top cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket back side, the top support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat top of the stadium seat; and a pouch coupled to the bottom cushion pocket, the pouch having a rear face of a pouch back side coupled to the bottom cushion pocket front side wherein an entirety of an opening into the pouch is positioned forwardly of the bottom cushion front side, the pouch further having a pouch left side, a pouch right side, a pouch front side, and a pouch bottom side defining pouch inside. 2. The cushioned stadium seat cover of claim 1 further comprising the connector being coupled between the bottom cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket front side. 3. (canceled) 4. (canceled) 5. (canceled) 6. The cushioned stadium seat cover of claim 1 further comprising the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom cushion pocket top side, the bottom support pocket, the connector, the top cushion pocket front side, the top cushion pocket top side, and the top support pocket being a one-piece construction. 7. (canceled) 8. A cushioned stadium seat cover comprising:
a bottom cushion pocket having a bottom cushion pocket back side, a bottom cushion pocket front side, a bottom cushion pocket left side, a bottom cushion pocket right side, a bottom cushion pocket top side, and a bottom cushion pocket bottom side; a bottom cushion coupled within the bottom cushion pocket; a bottom support pocket coupled to the bottom cushion pocket, the bottom support pocket being coupled to the bottom cushion pocket bottom side and the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat bottom of a stadium seat; a connector coupled to the bottom cushion pocket; a top cushion pocket coupled to the connector, the top cushion pocket having a top cushion pocket back side, a top cushion pocket front side, a top cushion pocket left side, a top cushion pocket right side, a top cushion pocket top side, and a top cushion pocket bottom side, the connector being coupled between the bottom cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket front side; a top cushion coupled within the top cushion pocket; a top support pocket coupled to the top cushion pocket, the top support pocket being coupled to the top cushion pocket top side and the top cushion pocket back side, the top support pocket being configured to selectively receive a seat top of the stadium seat, the bottom cushion pocket front side, the bottom cushion pocket top side, the bottom support pocket, the connector, the top cushion pocket front side, the top cushion pocket top side, and the top support pocket being a one-piece construction; and a pouch having a rear face of a pouch back side coupled to the bottom cushion pocket front side wherein an entirety of an opening into the pouch is positioned forwardly of the bottom cushion front side, the pouch further having a a pouch left side, a pouch right side, a pouch front side, and a pouch bottom side defining a pouch inside. | 3,600 |
341,324 | 16,801,647 | 3,636 | A system for highlighting an instrument in an image includes a probe (122) for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic energy to and from a volume and a marker device (120) configured to respond to a received ultrasonic signal and emit an ultrasonic signal after a delay. The ultrasonic signal includes one or more pulses configured to generate a marker, when rendered, of a given size at a position within an image. A medical instrument (102) is disposed in the volume and includes the marker device. A control module (124) is stored in memory and is configured to interpret the ultrasonic energy received from the probe and from the marker device to determine a three dimensional location of the medical instrument and to highlight the three dimensional location of the marker device with the marker in the image. | 1. A method for providing a shaped marker in an image, comprising:
estimating a frame rate of an imaging probe; analyzing traces within a detection window to find a temporal maximum which best matches a position of a marker device mounted on an instrument to determine an arrival time; injecting an acoustic feedback signal into the imaging probe by emitting a delayed signal from the marker device to the imaging probe, the delayed signal including one or more timed pulses to simulate a marker shape in an echo back from the marker device; and displaying the marker shape in an image to identify the position of the instrument. 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein injecting the acoustic feedback signal includes injecting the acoustic feedback signal in frames at t0+nT+Si, where t0 is a temporal maximum of signals received by the sensor, T is frame rate, n is an integer and Si includes shape pulses. 3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein displaying the marker shape includes changing one of shape, size and visual attributes over time of the marker. 4. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein displaying the marker shape includes selecting a shape, size and position of the marker to provide a reference. 5. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising: comparing a position and shape of the delayed signal to an on-screen video output of a position and shape of the marker to determine beamforming and scan conversion parameters of a scanner. | A system for highlighting an instrument in an image includes a probe (122) for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic energy to and from a volume and a marker device (120) configured to respond to a received ultrasonic signal and emit an ultrasonic signal after a delay. The ultrasonic signal includes one or more pulses configured to generate a marker, when rendered, of a given size at a position within an image. A medical instrument (102) is disposed in the volume and includes the marker device. A control module (124) is stored in memory and is configured to interpret the ultrasonic energy received from the probe and from the marker device to determine a three dimensional location of the medical instrument and to highlight the three dimensional location of the marker device with the marker in the image.1. A method for providing a shaped marker in an image, comprising:
estimating a frame rate of an imaging probe; analyzing traces within a detection window to find a temporal maximum which best matches a position of a marker device mounted on an instrument to determine an arrival time; injecting an acoustic feedback signal into the imaging probe by emitting a delayed signal from the marker device to the imaging probe, the delayed signal including one or more timed pulses to simulate a marker shape in an echo back from the marker device; and displaying the marker shape in an image to identify the position of the instrument. 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein injecting the acoustic feedback signal includes injecting the acoustic feedback signal in frames at t0+nT+Si, where t0 is a temporal maximum of signals received by the sensor, T is frame rate, n is an integer and Si includes shape pulses. 3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein displaying the marker shape includes changing one of shape, size and visual attributes over time of the marker. 4. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein displaying the marker shape includes selecting a shape, size and position of the marker to provide a reference. 5. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising: comparing a position and shape of the delayed signal to an on-screen video output of a position and shape of the marker to determine beamforming and scan conversion parameters of a scanner. | 3,600 |
341,325 | 16,801,656 | 3,636 | A control system for a dump truck or trailer having a telescoping hoist is disclosed. The control system includes an integrated electronic control unit which receives sensor information regarding at least a hydraulic pump, a power take-off, a first inclinometer and a second inclinometer and uses this information to send warning to a user display and to sends control information to at least a hydraulic fluid control valve and optionally other devices on the truck or trailer as well. | 1. A control system for a dump truck or a dump trailer comprising:
a truck or a truck trailer; a dump bed having a front portion, a rear portion, a bed floor and a plurality of sidewalls attached to the bed floor, the dump bed being pivotally attached to a lower portion of the truck or truck trailer; a dump bed hydraulic hoist comprising a plurality of telescoping hoist sections, the hoist having a first end attached to the truck or truck trailer and a second end attached to the dump bed, wherein the hoist is movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which the dump bed is tipped to facilitate load dumping; a hydraulic pump in flow communication with a hydraulic fluid control valve for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to the hoist, the pump further including a pump sensor for determining the operating state of the pump; a power take-off for selectively transferring power from a truck powertrain to the hydraulic pump, the power take-off having a valve to engage with and disengage from the hydraulic pump and further including a power take-off sensor for determining the operating state of the power take-off; a first inclinometer attached to the dump bed for determining a tip angle and a roll angle of the dump bed; a second inclinometer attached to the lower portion of the truck or truck trailer for determining longitudinal levelness and transverse levelness of the truck or truck trailer lower portion; an integrated hoist electronic control unit for receiving sensor information and sending control information based upon the sensor information received, wherein the control unit receives information from the pump sensor, the first inclinometer, and the second inclinometer, and wherein the control unit sends control information to the hydraulic fluid control valve; a primary hoist human machine interface capable of receiving information from and sending information to the control unit, the primary human machine interface having a video monitor for displaying information received from the control unit and a plurality of controls for sending information to the control unit. 2. The control system of claim 1, wherein tip angle information and roll angle information for the dump bed are selectively displayed on the video monitor. 3. The control system of claim 1, wherein the control unit sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the second inclinometer indicating that either the longitudinal levelness or the transverse levelness of the truck or truck trailer lower portion exceeds a predetermined maximum longitudinal levelness or maximum transverse levelness. 4. The control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one pressure sensor for determining a hydraulic cylinder pressure within the hoist, wherein the control unit receives hydraulic pressure information from the at least one pressure sensor and calculates a percent of cylinder load capacity based upon the hydraulic pressure information. 5. The control system of claim 4, wherein the control unit determines a maximum safe dump bed tip angle based upon the longitudinal levelness information, the transverse levelness information, and the percent of cylinder load capacity; and
wherein the control unit sends control information to stop flow of hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic fluid control valve, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the tip angle of the dump bed exceeds the maximum safe dump bed tip angle. 6. The control system of claim 1, wherein the control unit sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the power take-off sensor indicating that the hydraulic pump is not operating. 7. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a tailgate pivotally attached to the rear portion of the dump bed, the tailgate having a latch which is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position and a latch position sensor for determining the position of the tailgate latch,
wherein the control unit receives information from the pump sensor and sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the latch position sensor indicating that the tailgate latch is in an unlocked position. 8. The control system of claim 1, further comprising
a tarp extendable over the dump bed; at least one elongate arm attached to an end of the tarp; a tarp motor for moving the elongate arm and the tarp from a retracted position to an extended position; and a tarp position sensor for determining the position of the tarp arm, wherein the control unit receives tarp position information from the tarp position sensor and sends control information to the tarp motor. 9. The control system of claim 8, wherein the control unit sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the tarp position sensor indicating that the tarp is in an extended position. 10. The control system of claim 1, wherein the truck or truck trailer includes an air suspension for suspending the lower portion of the truck or truck trailer,
wherein the control system further comprises at least one suspension pressure sensor for determining the air suspension air pressure, and wherein the control unit receives air pressure information from the at least one suspension pressure sensor. 11. The control system of claim 10, wherein the control sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information the at least one suspension pressure sensor indicating that the air suspension air pressure is either below a predetermined minimum air pressure or above a predetermined maximum air pressure. 12. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a backup camera attached to the rear portion of the dump bed and positioned for observing an area behind the truck or truck trailer, wherein the control unit receives images from the backup camera and the images are selectively displayed on the video monitor. 13. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a load camera attached to the front portion of the dump bed and position for observing a location within the dump bed, wherein the control unit receives images from the load camera and the images are selectively displayed on the video monitor. 14. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a secondary hoist human machine interface capable of wirelessly receiving information from and wirelessly sending information to the control unit, the secondary human machine interface having a plurality of controls for sending information to the control unit. | A control system for a dump truck or trailer having a telescoping hoist is disclosed. The control system includes an integrated electronic control unit which receives sensor information regarding at least a hydraulic pump, a power take-off, a first inclinometer and a second inclinometer and uses this information to send warning to a user display and to sends control information to at least a hydraulic fluid control valve and optionally other devices on the truck or trailer as well.1. A control system for a dump truck or a dump trailer comprising:
a truck or a truck trailer; a dump bed having a front portion, a rear portion, a bed floor and a plurality of sidewalls attached to the bed floor, the dump bed being pivotally attached to a lower portion of the truck or truck trailer; a dump bed hydraulic hoist comprising a plurality of telescoping hoist sections, the hoist having a first end attached to the truck or truck trailer and a second end attached to the dump bed, wherein the hoist is movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which the dump bed is tipped to facilitate load dumping; a hydraulic pump in flow communication with a hydraulic fluid control valve for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to the hoist, the pump further including a pump sensor for determining the operating state of the pump; a power take-off for selectively transferring power from a truck powertrain to the hydraulic pump, the power take-off having a valve to engage with and disengage from the hydraulic pump and further including a power take-off sensor for determining the operating state of the power take-off; a first inclinometer attached to the dump bed for determining a tip angle and a roll angle of the dump bed; a second inclinometer attached to the lower portion of the truck or truck trailer for determining longitudinal levelness and transverse levelness of the truck or truck trailer lower portion; an integrated hoist electronic control unit for receiving sensor information and sending control information based upon the sensor information received, wherein the control unit receives information from the pump sensor, the first inclinometer, and the second inclinometer, and wherein the control unit sends control information to the hydraulic fluid control valve; a primary hoist human machine interface capable of receiving information from and sending information to the control unit, the primary human machine interface having a video monitor for displaying information received from the control unit and a plurality of controls for sending information to the control unit. 2. The control system of claim 1, wherein tip angle information and roll angle information for the dump bed are selectively displayed on the video monitor. 3. The control system of claim 1, wherein the control unit sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the second inclinometer indicating that either the longitudinal levelness or the transverse levelness of the truck or truck trailer lower portion exceeds a predetermined maximum longitudinal levelness or maximum transverse levelness. 4. The control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one pressure sensor for determining a hydraulic cylinder pressure within the hoist, wherein the control unit receives hydraulic pressure information from the at least one pressure sensor and calculates a percent of cylinder load capacity based upon the hydraulic pressure information. 5. The control system of claim 4, wherein the control unit determines a maximum safe dump bed tip angle based upon the longitudinal levelness information, the transverse levelness information, and the percent of cylinder load capacity; and
wherein the control unit sends control information to stop flow of hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic fluid control valve, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the tip angle of the dump bed exceeds the maximum safe dump bed tip angle. 6. The control system of claim 1, wherein the control unit sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the power take-off sensor indicating that the hydraulic pump is not operating. 7. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a tailgate pivotally attached to the rear portion of the dump bed, the tailgate having a latch which is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position and a latch position sensor for determining the position of the tailgate latch,
wherein the control unit receives information from the pump sensor and sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the latch position sensor indicating that the tailgate latch is in an unlocked position. 8. The control system of claim 1, further comprising
a tarp extendable over the dump bed; at least one elongate arm attached to an end of the tarp; a tarp motor for moving the elongate arm and the tarp from a retracted position to an extended position; and a tarp position sensor for determining the position of the tarp arm, wherein the control unit receives tarp position information from the tarp position sensor and sends control information to the tarp motor. 9. The control system of claim 8, wherein the control unit sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information from the tarp position sensor indicating that the tarp is in an extended position. 10. The control system of claim 1, wherein the truck or truck trailer includes an air suspension for suspending the lower portion of the truck or truck trailer,
wherein the control system further comprises at least one suspension pressure sensor for determining the air suspension air pressure, and wherein the control unit receives air pressure information from the at least one suspension pressure sensor. 11. The control system of claim 10, wherein the control sends control information to disengage the power take-off from the hydraulic pump, and optionally display a warning message on the video monitor, if the control unit receives information the at least one suspension pressure sensor indicating that the air suspension air pressure is either below a predetermined minimum air pressure or above a predetermined maximum air pressure. 12. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a backup camera attached to the rear portion of the dump bed and positioned for observing an area behind the truck or truck trailer, wherein the control unit receives images from the backup camera and the images are selectively displayed on the video monitor. 13. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a load camera attached to the front portion of the dump bed and position for observing a location within the dump bed, wherein the control unit receives images from the load camera and the images are selectively displayed on the video monitor. 14. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a secondary hoist human machine interface capable of wirelessly receiving information from and wirelessly sending information to the control unit, the secondary human machine interface having a plurality of controls for sending information to the control unit. | 3,600 |
341,326 | 16,801,646 | 3,636 | In an embodiment, a semiconductor package includes at least one die pad, a plurality of outer contacts, a first semiconductor device and a second semiconductor device. The second semiconductor device includes a first transistor device having a source electrode, a gate electrode, a drain electrode, a front surface, and a rear surface. A front metallization is positioned on the front surface and a rear metallization on the rear surface of the second semiconductor device. The front metallization includes a first power contact pad coupled to the source electrode and mounted on the at least one die pad. The rear metallization includes a second power contact pad electrically coupled to the drain electrode, and an auxiliary lateral redistribution structure electrically insulated from the second power contact pad and the drain electrode. The first semiconductor device is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. | 1. A semiconductor package, comprising:
at least one die pad; a plurality of outer contacts; a first semiconductor device; and a second semiconductor device comprising a first transistor device having a source electrode, a gate electrode, a drain electrode, a front surface, a rear surface, a front metallization on the front surface, and a rear metallization on the rear surface, wherein the front metallization comprises a first power contact pad coupled to the source electrode, wherein the first power contact pad is mounted on the at least one die pad, wherein the rear metallization comprises a second power contact pad electrically coupled to the drain electrode and an auxiliary lateral redistribution structure electrically insulated from the second power contact pad and the drain electrode, wherein the first semiconductor device is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 2. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure comprises a conductive trace extending into a contact pad at one or two ends of the conductive trace. 3. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the first semiconductor device is electrically coupled to an outer contact by way of the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure on the second semiconductor device, and wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure is operably unconnected to the second transistor device. 4. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the first semiconductor device comprises gate driver circuitry electrically coupled to a gate electrode of the first transistor device by way of the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 5. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the second semiconductor device further comprises at least one through substrate via extending from the rear surface to the front surface, and wherein the at least one through substrate via is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure on the rear surface. 6. The semiconductor package of claim 5, wherein the at least one through substrate via is further electrically coupled to a gate runner on the front surface and that is electrically coupled to a gate electrode of the first transistor device. 7. The semiconductor package of claim 6, wherein the second power contact pad on the rear surface is split into two or more sections, wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure comprises a first conductive trace positioned between, and electrically insulated from, two neighbouring sections of the second power contact pad and a second conductive trace that is arranged in a peripheral edge region of the rear surface and that is connected to the first conductive trace, and wherein the at least one through substrate via extends between the first conductive trace on the rear surface and the gate runner on the front surface, or between the second conductive trace on the rear surface and the gate runner on the front surface. 8. The semiconductor package of claim 7, wherein the gate runner on the front surface extends substantially perpendicular to the first conductive trace on the rear surface, and wherein the at least one through substrate via extends between the first conductive trace and the gate runner. 9. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the second semiconductor device further comprises an auxiliary structure, and wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure is electrically coupled to the auxiliary structure. 10. The semiconductor package of claim 9, wherein the auxiliary structure is an auxiliary transistor device providing current sensing, or an auxiliary transistor device providing temperature sensing, or a pull-down auxiliary transistor device. 11. The semiconductor package of claim 1, further comprising a third semiconductor device comprising a second transistor device, wherein the first transistor device and the second transistor device are coupled to form a half bridge, and wherein the first semiconductor device comprises gate driver circuitry. 12. A semiconductor component, comprising:
a transistor device comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a source electrode, a gate electrode, a drain electrode, a front metallization on the front surface, and a rear metallization on the rear surface, wherein the front metallization comprises a first power contact pad coupled to the source electrode, wherein the rear metallization comprises a second power contact pad arranged on and electrically coupled to the drain electrode, and an auxiliary lateral redistribution structure electrically insulated from the power contact pad and the drain electrode. 13. The semiconductor component of claim 12, further comprising an auxiliary structure, wherein the auxiliary structure is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 14. The semiconductor component of claim 12, wherein the first power contact pad is split into two or more sections, wherein the front metallization comprises one or more gate runners arranged between two sections of the first power contact pad, and wherein the one or more gate runners are electrically coupled to the gate electrode of the transistor device and to one another by way of the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 15. The semiconductor component of claim 12, wherein the second power contact pad on the rear surface is split into two or more sections, and wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure comprises a conductive trace positioned between, and electrically insulated from, two neighbouring sections of the second power contact pad. | In an embodiment, a semiconductor package includes at least one die pad, a plurality of outer contacts, a first semiconductor device and a second semiconductor device. The second semiconductor device includes a first transistor device having a source electrode, a gate electrode, a drain electrode, a front surface, and a rear surface. A front metallization is positioned on the front surface and a rear metallization on the rear surface of the second semiconductor device. The front metallization includes a first power contact pad coupled to the source electrode and mounted on the at least one die pad. The rear metallization includes a second power contact pad electrically coupled to the drain electrode, and an auxiliary lateral redistribution structure electrically insulated from the second power contact pad and the drain electrode. The first semiconductor device is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure.1. A semiconductor package, comprising:
at least one die pad; a plurality of outer contacts; a first semiconductor device; and a second semiconductor device comprising a first transistor device having a source electrode, a gate electrode, a drain electrode, a front surface, a rear surface, a front metallization on the front surface, and a rear metallization on the rear surface, wherein the front metallization comprises a first power contact pad coupled to the source electrode, wherein the first power contact pad is mounted on the at least one die pad, wherein the rear metallization comprises a second power contact pad electrically coupled to the drain electrode and an auxiliary lateral redistribution structure electrically insulated from the second power contact pad and the drain electrode, wherein the first semiconductor device is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 2. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure comprises a conductive trace extending into a contact pad at one or two ends of the conductive trace. 3. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the first semiconductor device is electrically coupled to an outer contact by way of the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure on the second semiconductor device, and wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure is operably unconnected to the second transistor device. 4. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the first semiconductor device comprises gate driver circuitry electrically coupled to a gate electrode of the first transistor device by way of the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 5. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the second semiconductor device further comprises at least one through substrate via extending from the rear surface to the front surface, and wherein the at least one through substrate via is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure on the rear surface. 6. The semiconductor package of claim 5, wherein the at least one through substrate via is further electrically coupled to a gate runner on the front surface and that is electrically coupled to a gate electrode of the first transistor device. 7. The semiconductor package of claim 6, wherein the second power contact pad on the rear surface is split into two or more sections, wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure comprises a first conductive trace positioned between, and electrically insulated from, two neighbouring sections of the second power contact pad and a second conductive trace that is arranged in a peripheral edge region of the rear surface and that is connected to the first conductive trace, and wherein the at least one through substrate via extends between the first conductive trace on the rear surface and the gate runner on the front surface, or between the second conductive trace on the rear surface and the gate runner on the front surface. 8. The semiconductor package of claim 7, wherein the gate runner on the front surface extends substantially perpendicular to the first conductive trace on the rear surface, and wherein the at least one through substrate via extends between the first conductive trace and the gate runner. 9. The semiconductor package of claim 1, wherein the second semiconductor device further comprises an auxiliary structure, and wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure is electrically coupled to the auxiliary structure. 10. The semiconductor package of claim 9, wherein the auxiliary structure is an auxiliary transistor device providing current sensing, or an auxiliary transistor device providing temperature sensing, or a pull-down auxiliary transistor device. 11. The semiconductor package of claim 1, further comprising a third semiconductor device comprising a second transistor device, wherein the first transistor device and the second transistor device are coupled to form a half bridge, and wherein the first semiconductor device comprises gate driver circuitry. 12. A semiconductor component, comprising:
a transistor device comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a source electrode, a gate electrode, a drain electrode, a front metallization on the front surface, and a rear metallization on the rear surface, wherein the front metallization comprises a first power contact pad coupled to the source electrode, wherein the rear metallization comprises a second power contact pad arranged on and electrically coupled to the drain electrode, and an auxiliary lateral redistribution structure electrically insulated from the power contact pad and the drain electrode. 13. The semiconductor component of claim 12, further comprising an auxiliary structure, wherein the auxiliary structure is electrically coupled to the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 14. The semiconductor component of claim 12, wherein the first power contact pad is split into two or more sections, wherein the front metallization comprises one or more gate runners arranged between two sections of the first power contact pad, and wherein the one or more gate runners are electrically coupled to the gate electrode of the transistor device and to one another by way of the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure. 15. The semiconductor component of claim 12, wherein the second power contact pad on the rear surface is split into two or more sections, and wherein the auxiliary lateral redistribution structure comprises a conductive trace positioned between, and electrically insulated from, two neighbouring sections of the second power contact pad. | 3,600 |
341,327 | 16,801,643 | 3,636 | A remote control system for a vehicle including: a user terminal; and a vehicle configured to transmit/receive information to/from the user terminal through a communication network. The vehicle performs first authentication on a user by comparing a captured image of the user to a reference image in response to an unlocking signal or start-up request signal received from the user terminal, and transmits second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal, the second authentication pre-processing information being obtained by generating an encryption key from a feature vector extracted from the image of the user and encrypting unique information of the user. The user terminal performs second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with a decryption key stored therein. | 1. A remote control system for a vehicle, comprising:
a user terminal; and a vehicle configured to transmit/receive information to/from the user terminal through a communication network, wherein: the vehicle performs first authentication on a user by comparing a captured image of the user to a reference image in response to an unlocking signal or a start-up request signal received from the user terminal, and transmits second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal, the second authentication pre-processing information being obtained by generating an encryption key from a feature vector extracted from the image of the user and encrypting unique information of the user; and the user terminal performs second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with a decryption key stored therein. 2. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal, a communication channel is opened between the user terminal and the vehicle, and the vehicle is unlocked or started up in response to the unlocking signal or the start-up request signal received from the user terminal. 3. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal, a communication channel is opened between the user terminal and the vehicle, and the vehicle performs vehicle control corresponding to a gesture image of the user, captured by the vehicle, in the case that the gesture image of the user is compared to and coincides with vehicle control information stored in advance. 4. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication, the vehicle generates the second authentication pre-processing information by extracting a feature vector from the face image information of the user, generating an encryption key by performing DNN (Deep Neural Network) learning on the feature vector, and encrypting user information with the generated encryption key. 5. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein the user terminal comprises at least one of a fob key, a smart watch, and a smart phone. 6. A method of operating a remote control system, the system including a user terminal and a vehicle configured to transmit/receive information to/from the user terminal through a communication network, the method comprising:
performing, by the vehicle, first authentication on a user by comparing a captured image of the user to a reference image in response to an unlocking signal or start-up request signal received from the user terminal, and transmitting second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal, the second authentication pre-processing information being obtained by generating an encryption key from a feature vector extracted from the image of the user and encrypting unique information of the user; and performing, by the user terminal, second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with a decryption key stored therein. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
opening a communication channel between the user terminal and the vehicle in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal; and unlocking or starting up the vehicle in response to the unlocking signal or the start-up signal received from the user terminal. 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
opening a communication channel between the user terminal and the vehicle in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal; and performing vehicle control corresponding to a gesture image of the user, captured in the vehicle, whenever the gesture image of the user is compared to and coincides with vehicle control information stored in advance. 9. The method of claim 6, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication, the transmitting of the second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal comprises generating the second authentication pre-processing information by extracting a feature vector from the face image information of the user, generating an encryption key by performing DNN learning on the feature vector, and encrypting user information with the generated encryption key. 10. The method of claim 6, wherein:
the performing of the second authentication on the user comprises performing, by the user terminal, the second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with the decryption key stored in the user terminal; and the user terminal comprises at least one of a fob key, a smart watch, and a smart phone. | A remote control system for a vehicle including: a user terminal; and a vehicle configured to transmit/receive information to/from the user terminal through a communication network. The vehicle performs first authentication on a user by comparing a captured image of the user to a reference image in response to an unlocking signal or start-up request signal received from the user terminal, and transmits second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal, the second authentication pre-processing information being obtained by generating an encryption key from a feature vector extracted from the image of the user and encrypting unique information of the user. The user terminal performs second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with a decryption key stored therein.1. A remote control system for a vehicle, comprising:
a user terminal; and a vehicle configured to transmit/receive information to/from the user terminal through a communication network, wherein: the vehicle performs first authentication on a user by comparing a captured image of the user to a reference image in response to an unlocking signal or a start-up request signal received from the user terminal, and transmits second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal, the second authentication pre-processing information being obtained by generating an encryption key from a feature vector extracted from the image of the user and encrypting unique information of the user; and the user terminal performs second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with a decryption key stored therein. 2. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal, a communication channel is opened between the user terminal and the vehicle, and the vehicle is unlocked or started up in response to the unlocking signal or the start-up request signal received from the user terminal. 3. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal, a communication channel is opened between the user terminal and the vehicle, and the vehicle performs vehicle control corresponding to a gesture image of the user, captured by the vehicle, in the case that the gesture image of the user is compared to and coincides with vehicle control information stored in advance. 4. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication, the vehicle generates the second authentication pre-processing information by extracting a feature vector from the face image information of the user, generating an encryption key by performing DNN (Deep Neural Network) learning on the feature vector, and encrypting user information with the generated encryption key. 5. The remote control system of claim 1, wherein the user terminal comprises at least one of a fob key, a smart watch, and a smart phone. 6. A method of operating a remote control system, the system including a user terminal and a vehicle configured to transmit/receive information to/from the user terminal through a communication network, the method comprising:
performing, by the vehicle, first authentication on a user by comparing a captured image of the user to a reference image in response to an unlocking signal or start-up request signal received from the user terminal, and transmitting second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal, the second authentication pre-processing information being obtained by generating an encryption key from a feature vector extracted from the image of the user and encrypting unique information of the user; and performing, by the user terminal, second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with a decryption key stored therein. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
opening a communication channel between the user terminal and the vehicle in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal; and unlocking or starting up the vehicle in response to the unlocking signal or the start-up signal received from the user terminal. 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
opening a communication channel between the user terminal and the vehicle in response to success of the first authentication on the user by the vehicle and success of the second authentication on the user by the user terminal; and performing vehicle control corresponding to a gesture image of the user, captured in the vehicle, whenever the gesture image of the user is compared to and coincides with vehicle control information stored in advance. 9. The method of claim 6, wherein, in response to success of the first authentication, the transmitting of the second authentication pre-processing information to the user terminal comprises generating the second authentication pre-processing information by extracting a feature vector from the face image information of the user, generating an encryption key by performing DNN learning on the feature vector, and encrypting user information with the generated encryption key. 10. The method of claim 6, wherein:
the performing of the second authentication on the user comprises performing, by the user terminal, the second authentication on the user by decrypting the second authentication pre-processing information received from the vehicle with the decryption key stored in the user terminal; and the user terminal comprises at least one of a fob key, a smart watch, and a smart phone. | 3,600 |
341,328 | 16,801,633 | 2,846 | Various embodiments include an actuator comprising: a motor; a transmission; an actuating connection; a first motor line and second motor line and a ground line. The motor is driven in a first or second direction by a motor voltage applied to the first or second motor line. There is also a motor control unit comprising a signal evaluation unit and a downstream actuating device for the motor, and a voltage supply unit to provide, from the first and/or second motor voltage, a supply DC voltage for a power supply of the motor control unit. The signal evaluation unit produces, for the duration of the application of the first and/or second motor voltage to the first and second motor line, associated actuating signals. The motor control unit electrically controls the motor in the associated first or second direction of rotation on the basis of actuating signals. | 1. An actuator for a flap or a valve, the actuator comprising:
a brushless DC motor; a transmission downstream of the motor; an actuating connection between the transmission and the flap or the valve; an electrical connection between the actuator and an external control line to supply energy to the actuator and to determine the direction of rotation of the motor; a first motor line and second motor line and a ground line; wherein the motor is driven in a first or second direction of rotation by a respective first or second motor voltage applied to the first or second motor line; a motor control unit comprising a signal evaluation unit and a downstream actuating device for the motor; a voltage supply unit to provide, from the first and/or second motor voltage, a supply DC voltage for a power supply of the motor control unit; wherein the signal evaluation unit produces, for the duration of the application of the first and/or second motor voltage to the first and second motor line, associated actuating signals and the motor control unit electrically controls the motor in the associated first or second direction of rotation on the basis of actuating signals. 2. The actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the signal evaluation unit of the motor control unit further comprises:
a digitization stage including a plurality of A/D converters for converting the two motor voltages into corresponding digital motor voltage signals; a digital mixer stage for producing in each case a beat signal from the digitized motor voltage signals supplied on the input side and from a demodulation frequency, wherein the respective beat signal represents the effective value of the demodulated motor voltage signals; and a classification stage to produce, from the two beat signals, the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator. 3. The actuator as claimed in claim 2, wherein:
the digitization stage includes an A/D converter for converting the supply DC voltage into a corresponding digital supply DC voltage signal; the signal evaluation unit includes a series of digital filters with moving average for filtering the supply DC voltage signal into a filtered supply DC voltage signal and for filtering the digitized motor voltage signals into filtered motor voltage signals; the digital mixer stage produces a digital signal for a phase angle between the digitized motor voltage signals; and the classification stage produces the actuating signals and output them to the downstream actuating device, as a function of: whether a current value of the filtered motor voltage signals is less than a first DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, exceeds a second DC voltage comparison value DCUPP, or lies between both DC voltage comparison values DCLOW, DCUPP; whether a current value of the respective effective value signal exceeds a comparison value ACUPP; and whether a current value of the phase angle signal is less than a first angle value PhiLOW, exceeds a second angle value PhiUPP, or lies between both angle values PhiLOW, PhiUPP; wherein the first and second DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, DCUPP, the comparison value ACUPP and the first and second angle value PhiLOW, PhiUPP are normalized to a current value of the filtered DC voltage supply signal. 4. The actuator as claimed in claim 3, wherein the digital mixer stage comprises a quadrature demodulator and a transformation stage arranged downstream therefrom,
wherein the quadrature demodulator includes a sine and cosine frequency generator for producing the demodulation frequency and demodulates the two motor voltage signals supplied on the input side, using the demodulation frequency in each case, and to output these as digital signals with an associated real part and an associated imaginary part in each case; and wherein the transformation stage forms the two effective value signals and the phase angle signal from the digital signals by means of polar coordinate transformation, and transmits said effective value signals to the classification unit. 5. The actuator as claimed in claim 3, wherein the classification stage comprises a normalization and comparator stage followed by a decision stage;
wherein the normalization and comparator stage produces, from a current value of the filtered supply DC voltage signal, normalized decision thresholds for the filtered motor voltage signals and for the effective value signals, to transmit these to a series of comparators and to transmit the binary comparison results with the filtered motor voltage signals and the effective value signals to the decision stage; wherein the decision stage produces and transmits the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator according to a binary decision tree. 6. The actuator as claimed in claim 4, wherein the signal evaluation unit filters the digital signals with associated real part and associated imaginary part output from the quadrature demodulator in each case, by means of a filter with moving average, and then to transmit said digital signals to the transformation stage. 7. The actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the actuator can also be connected to an external control line with an additional supply voltage line for a further energy supply to the actuator; the voltage supply unit provides, from a supply voltage that is applied to the supply voltage line, the supply DC voltage for the power supply of the motor control unit; the signal evaluation unit comprises a digitization stage with a plurality of A/D converters for converting the two motor voltages into corresponding digital motor voltage signals; the signal evaluation unit comprises a digital mixer stage for producing in each case a beat signal from the two digitized motor voltage signals supplied on the input side and from a demodulation frequency, wherein the respective beat signal represents the effective value of the demodulated motor voltage signals, and the signal evaluation unit comprises a classification stage to produce, from the two beat signals, the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator. 8. The actuator as claimed in claim 7, wherein:
the digitization stage also has an A/D converter for converting the supply DC voltage into a corresponding digital supply DC voltage signal; the signal evaluation unit includes a series of digital filters with moving average for filtering the supply DC voltage signal into a filtered supply DC voltage signal and for filtering the digitized motor voltage signals into filtered motor voltage signals; and the signal evaluation unit includes a classification stage which is designed to produce and output the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device (SE) of the actuator, as a function of: whether a current value of the filtered motor voltage signals is less than a first DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, exceeds a second DC voltage comparison value DCUPP, or remains between both DC voltage comparison values DCLOW, DCUPP; and whether a current value of the respective effective value signal is less than a first comparison value ACLOW, exceeds a second comparison value ACUPP, or remains between both comparison values ACLOW, ACUPP; wherein the first and second DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, DCUPP and the first and second comparison value ACLOW, ACUPP are normalized to a current value of the filtered DC voltage supply signal. 9. The actuator as claimed in claim 8, wherein:
the digital mixer stage comprises a quadrature demodulator and a transformation stage arranged downstream therefrom; the quadrature demodulator includes a sine and cosine frequency generator for producing the demodulation frequency and demodulates the two motor voltage signals supplied on the input side, using the demodulation frequency in each case, and transmits these as digital signals with an associated real part and imaginary part in each case; the transformation stage forms the two effective value signals from the digital signals by means of polar coordinate transformation and transmits these effective value signals to the classification unit. 10. The actuator as claimed in claim 8, wherein:
the classification stage comprises a normalization and comparator stage followed by a decision stage; the normalization and comparator stage produces, from a current value of the filtered supply DC voltage signal, normalized decision thresholds for the filtered motor voltage signals and for the effective value signals, transmits these to a series of comparators and logic gates and transmits the respective binary comparison results Y1 DC.M, Y1 DC.G, Y2 DC.M, Y2 DC.G, Y1 AC.M, Y1 AC.G, Y2 AC.M, Y2 AC.G with the filtered motor voltage signals and the effective value signals to the decision stage; and the decision stage produces and transmits the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator according to a binary decision tree. 11. The actuator as claimed in claim 9, wherein the signal evaluation unit filters the digital signals by the quadrature demodulator, using a filter with moving average, and then transmits said digital signals to the transformation stage. 12. The actuator as claimed in claim 2, wherein the demodulation frequency is set to a frequency value of 55 Hz±3 Hz. 13. The actuator as claimed in claim 2, wherein the classification stage producing the actuating signals is followed by a debounce filter stage to filter out short-term signal changes in the actuating signals and then output the filtered actuating signals to the actuating device. 14. The actuator as claimed in claim 13, wherein the respective digital filter with moving average comprises a CIC filter. 15. (canceled) | Various embodiments include an actuator comprising: a motor; a transmission; an actuating connection; a first motor line and second motor line and a ground line. The motor is driven in a first or second direction by a motor voltage applied to the first or second motor line. There is also a motor control unit comprising a signal evaluation unit and a downstream actuating device for the motor, and a voltage supply unit to provide, from the first and/or second motor voltage, a supply DC voltage for a power supply of the motor control unit. The signal evaluation unit produces, for the duration of the application of the first and/or second motor voltage to the first and second motor line, associated actuating signals. The motor control unit electrically controls the motor in the associated first or second direction of rotation on the basis of actuating signals.1. An actuator for a flap or a valve, the actuator comprising:
a brushless DC motor; a transmission downstream of the motor; an actuating connection between the transmission and the flap or the valve; an electrical connection between the actuator and an external control line to supply energy to the actuator and to determine the direction of rotation of the motor; a first motor line and second motor line and a ground line; wherein the motor is driven in a first or second direction of rotation by a respective first or second motor voltage applied to the first or second motor line; a motor control unit comprising a signal evaluation unit and a downstream actuating device for the motor; a voltage supply unit to provide, from the first and/or second motor voltage, a supply DC voltage for a power supply of the motor control unit; wherein the signal evaluation unit produces, for the duration of the application of the first and/or second motor voltage to the first and second motor line, associated actuating signals and the motor control unit electrically controls the motor in the associated first or second direction of rotation on the basis of actuating signals. 2. The actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the signal evaluation unit of the motor control unit further comprises:
a digitization stage including a plurality of A/D converters for converting the two motor voltages into corresponding digital motor voltage signals; a digital mixer stage for producing in each case a beat signal from the digitized motor voltage signals supplied on the input side and from a demodulation frequency, wherein the respective beat signal represents the effective value of the demodulated motor voltage signals; and a classification stage to produce, from the two beat signals, the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator. 3. The actuator as claimed in claim 2, wherein:
the digitization stage includes an A/D converter for converting the supply DC voltage into a corresponding digital supply DC voltage signal; the signal evaluation unit includes a series of digital filters with moving average for filtering the supply DC voltage signal into a filtered supply DC voltage signal and for filtering the digitized motor voltage signals into filtered motor voltage signals; the digital mixer stage produces a digital signal for a phase angle between the digitized motor voltage signals; and the classification stage produces the actuating signals and output them to the downstream actuating device, as a function of: whether a current value of the filtered motor voltage signals is less than a first DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, exceeds a second DC voltage comparison value DCUPP, or lies between both DC voltage comparison values DCLOW, DCUPP; whether a current value of the respective effective value signal exceeds a comparison value ACUPP; and whether a current value of the phase angle signal is less than a first angle value PhiLOW, exceeds a second angle value PhiUPP, or lies between both angle values PhiLOW, PhiUPP; wherein the first and second DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, DCUPP, the comparison value ACUPP and the first and second angle value PhiLOW, PhiUPP are normalized to a current value of the filtered DC voltage supply signal. 4. The actuator as claimed in claim 3, wherein the digital mixer stage comprises a quadrature demodulator and a transformation stage arranged downstream therefrom,
wherein the quadrature demodulator includes a sine and cosine frequency generator for producing the demodulation frequency and demodulates the two motor voltage signals supplied on the input side, using the demodulation frequency in each case, and to output these as digital signals with an associated real part and an associated imaginary part in each case; and wherein the transformation stage forms the two effective value signals and the phase angle signal from the digital signals by means of polar coordinate transformation, and transmits said effective value signals to the classification unit. 5. The actuator as claimed in claim 3, wherein the classification stage comprises a normalization and comparator stage followed by a decision stage;
wherein the normalization and comparator stage produces, from a current value of the filtered supply DC voltage signal, normalized decision thresholds for the filtered motor voltage signals and for the effective value signals, to transmit these to a series of comparators and to transmit the binary comparison results with the filtered motor voltage signals and the effective value signals to the decision stage; wherein the decision stage produces and transmits the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator according to a binary decision tree. 6. The actuator as claimed in claim 4, wherein the signal evaluation unit filters the digital signals with associated real part and associated imaginary part output from the quadrature demodulator in each case, by means of a filter with moving average, and then to transmit said digital signals to the transformation stage. 7. The actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the actuator can also be connected to an external control line with an additional supply voltage line for a further energy supply to the actuator; the voltage supply unit provides, from a supply voltage that is applied to the supply voltage line, the supply DC voltage for the power supply of the motor control unit; the signal evaluation unit comprises a digitization stage with a plurality of A/D converters for converting the two motor voltages into corresponding digital motor voltage signals; the signal evaluation unit comprises a digital mixer stage for producing in each case a beat signal from the two digitized motor voltage signals supplied on the input side and from a demodulation frequency, wherein the respective beat signal represents the effective value of the demodulated motor voltage signals, and the signal evaluation unit comprises a classification stage to produce, from the two beat signals, the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator. 8. The actuator as claimed in claim 7, wherein:
the digitization stage also has an A/D converter for converting the supply DC voltage into a corresponding digital supply DC voltage signal; the signal evaluation unit includes a series of digital filters with moving average for filtering the supply DC voltage signal into a filtered supply DC voltage signal and for filtering the digitized motor voltage signals into filtered motor voltage signals; and the signal evaluation unit includes a classification stage which is designed to produce and output the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device (SE) of the actuator, as a function of: whether a current value of the filtered motor voltage signals is less than a first DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, exceeds a second DC voltage comparison value DCUPP, or remains between both DC voltage comparison values DCLOW, DCUPP; and whether a current value of the respective effective value signal is less than a first comparison value ACLOW, exceeds a second comparison value ACUPP, or remains between both comparison values ACLOW, ACUPP; wherein the first and second DC voltage comparison value DCLOW, DCUPP and the first and second comparison value ACLOW, ACUPP are normalized to a current value of the filtered DC voltage supply signal. 9. The actuator as claimed in claim 8, wherein:
the digital mixer stage comprises a quadrature demodulator and a transformation stage arranged downstream therefrom; the quadrature demodulator includes a sine and cosine frequency generator for producing the demodulation frequency and demodulates the two motor voltage signals supplied on the input side, using the demodulation frequency in each case, and transmits these as digital signals with an associated real part and imaginary part in each case; the transformation stage forms the two effective value signals from the digital signals by means of polar coordinate transformation and transmits these effective value signals to the classification unit. 10. The actuator as claimed in claim 8, wherein:
the classification stage comprises a normalization and comparator stage followed by a decision stage; the normalization and comparator stage produces, from a current value of the filtered supply DC voltage signal, normalized decision thresholds for the filtered motor voltage signals and for the effective value signals, transmits these to a series of comparators and logic gates and transmits the respective binary comparison results Y1 DC.M, Y1 DC.G, Y2 DC.M, Y2 DC.G, Y1 AC.M, Y1 AC.G, Y2 AC.M, Y2 AC.G with the filtered motor voltage signals and the effective value signals to the decision stage; and the decision stage produces and transmits the actuating signals for the downstream actuating device of the actuator according to a binary decision tree. 11. The actuator as claimed in claim 9, wherein the signal evaluation unit filters the digital signals by the quadrature demodulator, using a filter with moving average, and then transmits said digital signals to the transformation stage. 12. The actuator as claimed in claim 2, wherein the demodulation frequency is set to a frequency value of 55 Hz±3 Hz. 13. The actuator as claimed in claim 2, wherein the classification stage producing the actuating signals is followed by a debounce filter stage to filter out short-term signal changes in the actuating signals and then output the filtered actuating signals to the actuating device. 14. The actuator as claimed in claim 13, wherein the respective digital filter with moving average comprises a CIC filter. 15. (canceled) | 2,800 |
341,329 | 16,801,621 | 2,846 | A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber and a method of operation thereof are disclosed. Chambers and methods are described that provide a chamber comprising an upper shield with two holes that are positioned to permit alternate sputtering from two targets. | 1. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate to support a first target during a sputtering process and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate configured to support a second target during a sputtering process; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first cathode assembly and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second cathode assembly, the upper shield having a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole; and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height greater than one centimeter from the flat inside surface and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole, wherein the PVD chamber is configured to alternately sputter material from the first target and the second target without rotating the upper shield. 2. The PVD chamber of claim 1, wherein the raised area has a height sufficient so that during a sputtering process, the raised area prevents material sputtered from the first target from being deposited on the second target and to prevent material sputtered from the second target from being deposited on the first target. 3. The PVD chamber of claim 1, wherein the first cathode assembly comprises a first magnet spaced apart from the first backing plate at a first distance and the second cathode assembly comprises a second magnet spaced apart from the second backing plate at a second distance, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are movable such that the first distance can be varied and the second distance can be varied. 4. The PVD chamber of claim 3, wherein the first magnet and second magnet are configured to be moved to decrease the first distance and the second distance to increase magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet and to increase the first distance and the second distance to decrease magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet. 5. The PVD chamber of claim 3, wherein the first target comprises a molybdenum target and the second target comprises a silicon target, the PVD chamber further comprising a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate to support a third target during a sputtering process and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth backing plate configured to support a fourth target. 6. The PVD chamber of claim 5, where the third target comprises a dummy target and the fourth target comprises a dummy target. 7. The PVD chamber of claim 6, wherein third target and the fourth target are positioned with respect to the first target and second target so that when the upper shield is in a first position, the first target is exposed through the first shield hole and the second target is exposed through the second shield hole, and the third target and fourth target are covered by the upper shield, and when the upper shield is rotated to a second position, the fourth target is exposed through the second shield hole and the second target is exposed through the first shield hole. 8. The PVD chamber of claim 7, wherein when the upper shield is rotated to a third position, the first target is exposed through the second shield hole and the fourth target is exposed through the first shield hole. 9. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate supporting a first target comprising molybdenum and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate supporting a second target comprising silicon, a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate supporting a third target comprising a dummy material, and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth backing plate supporting a fourth target comprising a dummy material; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target, the upper shield having a flat surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the upper shield configured to permit molybdenum and silicon material to be alternately sputtered from the first target and the second target respectively without rotating the upper shield; and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height greater than one centimeter and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the second shield hole, wherein the upper shield is rotatable to allow one of the first shield hole and the second shield hole to expose the first target and one of third target and the fourth target. 10. The PVD chamber of claim 9, wherein each of the first cathode assembly, the second cathode assembly, third cathode assembly and fourth cathode assembly comprise a magnet spaced apart from the first backing plate at a first distance, the second backing plate at a second distance, the third backing plate at a third distance and the fourth backing plate at a fourth distance, each of the magnets being movable to increase or decrease each of the first distance, the second distance, third distance or fourth distance. 11. The PVD chamber of claim 10, wherein decreasing the first distance, the second distance, the third distance or the fourth distance increases magnetic field strength produced by the magnet, and increasing the first distance, the second distance, the third distance or the fourth distance decreases magnetic field strength produced by the magnet. 12. A method of depositing alternating material layers in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
placing a substrate in the PVD chamber comprising a plurality cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first target comprising a first material and a second cathode assembly including a second target comprising a second material different from the first material; disposing an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies, the upper shield having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target, the upper shield further comprising a flat surface between the first shield hole and the second shield hole and a raised area between the two of the shield holes having a length at least equal to the diameter of the first shield hole and the second shield hole; and alternately sputtering material from the first target and the second target without rotating the upper shield, wherein the raised area prevents the first material from contaminating the second target and prevents the second material from contaminating the first target. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the chamber further comprises a third target comprising dummy material and a fourth target comprising dummy material and wherein third target and the fourth target are positioned with respect to the first target and second target so that when the upper shield is in a first position, the first target is exposed through the first shield hole and the second target is exposed through the second shield hole, and the third target and fourth target are covered by the upper shield during depositing alternating material layers from the first target and the second target. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising cleaning first material deposited on the second target by applying a magnetic field to the second target that is greater than a magnetic field applied during depositing alternating material layers. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising cleaning second material deposited on the first target by applying a magnetic field to the first target that is greater than a magnetic field applied during depositing alternating material layers. 16. The method according to claim 14, further comprising rotating the upper shield from the first position to a second position prior to cleaning the first material from the second target, the fourth target is exposed through the second shield hole and the second target is exposed through the first shield hole. 17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising rotating the upper shield from the second position to a third position so that the first target is exposed through the second shield hole and the fourth target is exposed through the first shield hole. 18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the substrate comprises an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank. 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the first target material comprises molybdenum and the second target material comprises silicon. 20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising depositing multiple alternating materials layers comprising a first layer comprising molybdenum and a second layer comprising silicon. | A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber and a method of operation thereof are disclosed. Chambers and methods are described that provide a chamber comprising an upper shield with two holes that are positioned to permit alternate sputtering from two targets.1. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate to support a first target during a sputtering process and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate configured to support a second target during a sputtering process; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first cathode assembly and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second cathode assembly, the upper shield having a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole; and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height greater than one centimeter from the flat inside surface and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole, wherein the PVD chamber is configured to alternately sputter material from the first target and the second target without rotating the upper shield. 2. The PVD chamber of claim 1, wherein the raised area has a height sufficient so that during a sputtering process, the raised area prevents material sputtered from the first target from being deposited on the second target and to prevent material sputtered from the second target from being deposited on the first target. 3. The PVD chamber of claim 1, wherein the first cathode assembly comprises a first magnet spaced apart from the first backing plate at a first distance and the second cathode assembly comprises a second magnet spaced apart from the second backing plate at a second distance, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are movable such that the first distance can be varied and the second distance can be varied. 4. The PVD chamber of claim 3, wherein the first magnet and second magnet are configured to be moved to decrease the first distance and the second distance to increase magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet and to increase the first distance and the second distance to decrease magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet. 5. The PVD chamber of claim 3, wherein the first target comprises a molybdenum target and the second target comprises a silicon target, the PVD chamber further comprising a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate to support a third target during a sputtering process and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth backing plate configured to support a fourth target. 6. The PVD chamber of claim 5, where the third target comprises a dummy target and the fourth target comprises a dummy target. 7. The PVD chamber of claim 6, wherein third target and the fourth target are positioned with respect to the first target and second target so that when the upper shield is in a first position, the first target is exposed through the first shield hole and the second target is exposed through the second shield hole, and the third target and fourth target are covered by the upper shield, and when the upper shield is rotated to a second position, the fourth target is exposed through the second shield hole and the second target is exposed through the first shield hole. 8. The PVD chamber of claim 7, wherein when the upper shield is rotated to a third position, the first target is exposed through the second shield hole and the fourth target is exposed through the first shield hole. 9. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate supporting a first target comprising molybdenum and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate supporting a second target comprising silicon, a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate supporting a third target comprising a dummy material, and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth backing plate supporting a fourth target comprising a dummy material; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target, the upper shield having a flat surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the upper shield configured to permit molybdenum and silicon material to be alternately sputtered from the first target and the second target respectively without rotating the upper shield; and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height greater than one centimeter and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the second shield hole, wherein the upper shield is rotatable to allow one of the first shield hole and the second shield hole to expose the first target and one of third target and the fourth target. 10. The PVD chamber of claim 9, wherein each of the first cathode assembly, the second cathode assembly, third cathode assembly and fourth cathode assembly comprise a magnet spaced apart from the first backing plate at a first distance, the second backing plate at a second distance, the third backing plate at a third distance and the fourth backing plate at a fourth distance, each of the magnets being movable to increase or decrease each of the first distance, the second distance, third distance or fourth distance. 11. The PVD chamber of claim 10, wherein decreasing the first distance, the second distance, the third distance or the fourth distance increases magnetic field strength produced by the magnet, and increasing the first distance, the second distance, the third distance or the fourth distance decreases magnetic field strength produced by the magnet. 12. A method of depositing alternating material layers in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
placing a substrate in the PVD chamber comprising a plurality cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first target comprising a first material and a second cathode assembly including a second target comprising a second material different from the first material; disposing an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies, the upper shield having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target, the upper shield further comprising a flat surface between the first shield hole and the second shield hole and a raised area between the two of the shield holes having a length at least equal to the diameter of the first shield hole and the second shield hole; and alternately sputtering material from the first target and the second target without rotating the upper shield, wherein the raised area prevents the first material from contaminating the second target and prevents the second material from contaminating the first target. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the chamber further comprises a third target comprising dummy material and a fourth target comprising dummy material and wherein third target and the fourth target are positioned with respect to the first target and second target so that when the upper shield is in a first position, the first target is exposed through the first shield hole and the second target is exposed through the second shield hole, and the third target and fourth target are covered by the upper shield during depositing alternating material layers from the first target and the second target. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising cleaning first material deposited on the second target by applying a magnetic field to the second target that is greater than a magnetic field applied during depositing alternating material layers. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising cleaning second material deposited on the first target by applying a magnetic field to the first target that is greater than a magnetic field applied during depositing alternating material layers. 16. The method according to claim 14, further comprising rotating the upper shield from the first position to a second position prior to cleaning the first material from the second target, the fourth target is exposed through the second shield hole and the second target is exposed through the first shield hole. 17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising rotating the upper shield from the second position to a third position so that the first target is exposed through the second shield hole and the fourth target is exposed through the first shield hole. 18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the substrate comprises an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank. 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the first target material comprises molybdenum and the second target material comprises silicon. 20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising depositing multiple alternating materials layers comprising a first layer comprising molybdenum and a second layer comprising silicon. | 2,800 |
341,330 | 16,801,658 | 2,846 | A computer system holds model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair. The computer system comprises: a transition probability calculating unit uses, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; and a transition probability modifying unit modifies the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable. The transition probability calculating unit generates a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair. | 1. A computer system, which is configured to generate a plan that defines an order of execution of a plurality of processes,
comprising at least one computer having an arithmetic device and a storage device, holding model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair, and comprising: a transition probability calculating unit configured to, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, use the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; and a transition probability modifying unit configured to: determine whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on an evaluation standard; and modify the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable, and the transition probability calculating unit being configured to generate a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair. 2. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the computer system holds the plan history that has been used to generate the model management information, wherein the transition probability modifying unit is configured to: generate history process pairs based on the plan history, and calculate a feature amount of each of the history process pairs; calculate a number of history process pairs present within a predetermined area centered about the feature amount of the process pair in a feature amount space, based on the feature amount of the process pair and the feature amounts of the history process pairs; and determine whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on a result of comparison between the number of history process pairs and a threshold. 3. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the computer system holds rule information that defines a standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable, and wherein the transition probability modifying unit is configured to determine whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on the rule information. 4. The computer system according to claim 2,
wherein the computer system is configured to provide a first interface for setting a determination standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable. 5. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the transition probability modifying unit is configured to: present a second interface indicating details of modification of the transition probability of the process pair; and modify the transition probability of the process pair in a case where a notification indicating that the transition probability of the process pair is to be modified is received via the second interface. 6. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the transition probability calculating unit is configured to: generate a pair group including process pairs having the same reference target process; and perform, in a case where the pair group includes at least one of a process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable, one of: modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group to the same value; and modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group so that a minimum value of the transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group is larger than a predetermined value. 7. The computer system according to claim 1, further comprising a learning data generating unit configured to generate learning data for generating the model management information, based on the feature amount of the process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable. 8. A generation method of a plan that defines an order of execution of a plurality of processes, which is executed by a computer system,
the computer system including at least one computer having an arithmetic device and a storage device, and holding model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair, the generation method of a plan including: a first step of using, by the arithmetic device, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; a second step of determining, by the arithmetic device, whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on an evaluation standard; a third step of modifying, by the arithmetic device, the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable; and a fourth step of generating, by the arithmetic device, a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair. 9. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8,
wherein the computer system holds the plan history that has been used to generate the model management information, and wherein the second step includes: a step of generating, by the arithmetic device, history process pairs based on the plan history, and calculating a feature amount of each of the history process pairs; a step of calculating, by the arithmetic device, a number of history process pairs present within a predetermined area centered about the feature amount of the process pair in a feature amount space, based on the feature amount of the process pair and the feature amounts of the history process pairs; and a step of determining, by the arithmetic device, whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on a result of comparison between the number of history process pairs and a threshold. 10. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8,
wherein the computer system holds rule information that defines a standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable, and wherein the second step includes a step of determining, by the arithmetic device, whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on the rule information. 11. The generation method of a plan according to claim 9, further including a step of providing, by the arithmetic device, a first interface for setting a determination standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable. 12. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8, wherein the third step includes:
a step of presenting, by the arithmetic device, a second interface indicating details of modification of the transition probability of the process pair; and a step of modifying, by the arithmetic device, the transition probability of the process pair in a case where a notification indicating that the transition probability of the process pair is to be modified is received via the second interface. 13. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8,
wherein the third step includes: a step of generating, by the arithmetic device, a pair group including process pairs having the same reference target process; and a step of performing, by the arithmetic device, in a case where the pair group includes at least one of a process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable, one of: modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group to the same value; and modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group so that a minimum value of the transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group is larger than a predetermined value. 14. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8, further including a step of generating, by the arithmetic device, learning data for generating the model management information, based on the feature amount of the process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable. 15. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having stored thereon a program for causing a computer to generate a plan that defines an order of execution of a plurality of processes,
wherein the computer has an arithmetic device and a storage device, and holds model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair, the program causing the computer to execute the procedures of: using, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on an evaluation standard; modifying the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable; and generating a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair. | A computer system holds model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair. The computer system comprises: a transition probability calculating unit uses, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; and a transition probability modifying unit modifies the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable. The transition probability calculating unit generates a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair.1. A computer system, which is configured to generate a plan that defines an order of execution of a plurality of processes,
comprising at least one computer having an arithmetic device and a storage device, holding model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair, and comprising: a transition probability calculating unit configured to, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, use the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; and a transition probability modifying unit configured to: determine whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on an evaluation standard; and modify the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable, and the transition probability calculating unit being configured to generate a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair. 2. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the computer system holds the plan history that has been used to generate the model management information, wherein the transition probability modifying unit is configured to: generate history process pairs based on the plan history, and calculate a feature amount of each of the history process pairs; calculate a number of history process pairs present within a predetermined area centered about the feature amount of the process pair in a feature amount space, based on the feature amount of the process pair and the feature amounts of the history process pairs; and determine whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on a result of comparison between the number of history process pairs and a threshold. 3. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the computer system holds rule information that defines a standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable, and wherein the transition probability modifying unit is configured to determine whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on the rule information. 4. The computer system according to claim 2,
wherein the computer system is configured to provide a first interface for setting a determination standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable. 5. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the transition probability modifying unit is configured to: present a second interface indicating details of modification of the transition probability of the process pair; and modify the transition probability of the process pair in a case where a notification indicating that the transition probability of the process pair is to be modified is received via the second interface. 6. The computer system according to claim 1,
wherein the transition probability calculating unit is configured to: generate a pair group including process pairs having the same reference target process; and perform, in a case where the pair group includes at least one of a process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable, one of: modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group to the same value; and modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group so that a minimum value of the transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group is larger than a predetermined value. 7. The computer system according to claim 1, further comprising a learning data generating unit configured to generate learning data for generating the model management information, based on the feature amount of the process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable. 8. A generation method of a plan that defines an order of execution of a plurality of processes, which is executed by a computer system,
the computer system including at least one computer having an arithmetic device and a storage device, and holding model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair, the generation method of a plan including: a first step of using, by the arithmetic device, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; a second step of determining, by the arithmetic device, whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on an evaluation standard; a third step of modifying, by the arithmetic device, the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable; and a fourth step of generating, by the arithmetic device, a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair. 9. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8,
wherein the computer system holds the plan history that has been used to generate the model management information, and wherein the second step includes: a step of generating, by the arithmetic device, history process pairs based on the plan history, and calculating a feature amount of each of the history process pairs; a step of calculating, by the arithmetic device, a number of history process pairs present within a predetermined area centered about the feature amount of the process pair in a feature amount space, based on the feature amount of the process pair and the feature amounts of the history process pairs; and a step of determining, by the arithmetic device, whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on a result of comparison between the number of history process pairs and a threshold. 10. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8,
wherein the computer system holds rule information that defines a standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable, and wherein the second step includes a step of determining, by the arithmetic device, whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on the rule information. 11. The generation method of a plan according to claim 9, further including a step of providing, by the arithmetic device, a first interface for setting a determination standard for determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable. 12. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8, wherein the third step includes:
a step of presenting, by the arithmetic device, a second interface indicating details of modification of the transition probability of the process pair; and a step of modifying, by the arithmetic device, the transition probability of the process pair in a case where a notification indicating that the transition probability of the process pair is to be modified is received via the second interface. 13. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8,
wherein the third step includes: a step of generating, by the arithmetic device, a pair group including process pairs having the same reference target process; and a step of performing, by the arithmetic device, in a case where the pair group includes at least one of a process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable, one of: modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group to the same value; and modification of transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group so that a minimum value of the transition probabilities of the process pairs included in the pair group is larger than a predetermined value. 14. The generation method of a plan according to claim 8, further including a step of generating, by the arithmetic device, learning data for generating the model management information, based on the feature amount of the process pair for which the transition probability is determined to be unreliable. 15. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having stored thereon a program for causing a computer to generate a plan that defines an order of execution of a plurality of processes,
wherein the computer has an arithmetic device and a storage device, and holds model management information for managing a model for calculating, based on a feature amount of a process pair generated based on a plan history and formed of two processes, a transition probability of the two processes forming the process pair, the program causing the computer to execute the procedures of: using, in a case of receiving input data including a plurality of target processes, the model management information and a feature amount of a process pair formed of a reference target process and a transition destination target process, to thereby calculate a transition probability of the process pair; determining whether the transition probability of the process pair is reliable based on an evaluation standard; modifying the transition probability of the process pair determined to be unreliable; and generating a new plan by determining the order of execution of the plurality of target processes based on the transition probability of the process pair. | 2,800 |
341,331 | 16,801,671 | 2,859 | A selectable charging cable which may have a switch configured to permissively control the transmission of an electrical current between two internet connected, or electronically powered, devices. The switch may be connected to a connection member. The connection member may traverse into a retraction cavity inside of a casing and be optionally connected to a power prong, a data prong, or both. The power prong and the data prong may each have connector pins divided between them. The connector pins for the data prong may be used exclusively for data and the connector pins for the power prong may be used exclusively for power. The switch, being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position, may result in either the data prong, the power prong, or both prongs being incapable of connecting with an internet connected device. | 1) A data and power transfer assembly comprising:
a casting having a retraction cavity, the retraction cavity enveloping a power prong and a data prong, the power prong having one or more than one a connector pins for a power transmission, the data prong having one or more than one a connector pins for a data transmission; a switch mounted to the external portion of the casing, the switch attached to a connection member, the connection member traversing into the retraction cavity and optionally being connected to the power prong, the data prong, or both the power prong and the data prong; and, the switch being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position resulting either the data prong, the power prong, or the data prong and the power prong being incapable of connecting with an internet connected device. 2) The data and power transfer assembly of claim 1, wherein a first plug is connected to one end of a chord, a second plug connected to the other end of the chord;
the chord spanning between the first plug and the second plug and configured for the transmission of an electrical current. 3) The data and power transfer assembly of claim 1, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the first plug. 4) The data and power transfer assembly of claim 1, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the second plug. 5) A power and data cable with retractable functionality comprising:
a first plug connected to one end of a chord, a second plug connected to the other end of the chord, the chord spanning between the first plug and the second plug and configured for the transmission of an electrical current; a casting having a retraction cavity, the retraction cavity enveloping a power prong and a data prong, the power prong having one or more than one connector pins for power transmission, the data prong having one or more than one connector pins for data transmission; a switch mounted to the external portion of the casing, the switch attached to a connection member, the connection member traversing into the retraction cavity and optionally being connected to the power prong; and, the switch being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position such that when retracted the data prong cannot engage with an electronically powered device. 6) A power and data cable with retractable functionality of claim 5, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the first plug. 7) A power and data cable with retractable functionality of claim 5, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the second plug. 8) A cable with retractable power supply and retractable data supply comprising:
a first plug connected to one end of a chord, a second plug connected to the other end of the chord, the chord spanning between the first plug and the second plug and configured for the transmission of an electrical current; a casting having a retraction cavity, the retraction cavity enveloping a power prong and a data prong, the power prong having one or more than one connector pins for power transmission, the data prong having one or more than one connector pins for data transmission; a switch mounted to the external portion of the casing, the switch attached to a connection member, the connection member traversing into the retraction cavity and being connected to the data prong; and, the switch being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position such that when retracted the data prong cannot engage with an electronically powered device. 9) A cable with retractable power supply and retractable data supply of claim 8, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the first plug. 10) A cable with retractable power supply and retractable data supply of claim 8, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the second plug. | A selectable charging cable which may have a switch configured to permissively control the transmission of an electrical current between two internet connected, or electronically powered, devices. The switch may be connected to a connection member. The connection member may traverse into a retraction cavity inside of a casing and be optionally connected to a power prong, a data prong, or both. The power prong and the data prong may each have connector pins divided between them. The connector pins for the data prong may be used exclusively for data and the connector pins for the power prong may be used exclusively for power. The switch, being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position, may result in either the data prong, the power prong, or both prongs being incapable of connecting with an internet connected device.1) A data and power transfer assembly comprising:
a casting having a retraction cavity, the retraction cavity enveloping a power prong and a data prong, the power prong having one or more than one a connector pins for a power transmission, the data prong having one or more than one a connector pins for a data transmission; a switch mounted to the external portion of the casing, the switch attached to a connection member, the connection member traversing into the retraction cavity and optionally being connected to the power prong, the data prong, or both the power prong and the data prong; and, the switch being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position resulting either the data prong, the power prong, or the data prong and the power prong being incapable of connecting with an internet connected device. 2) The data and power transfer assembly of claim 1, wherein a first plug is connected to one end of a chord, a second plug connected to the other end of the chord;
the chord spanning between the first plug and the second plug and configured for the transmission of an electrical current. 3) The data and power transfer assembly of claim 1, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the first plug. 4) The data and power transfer assembly of claim 1, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the second plug. 5) A power and data cable with retractable functionality comprising:
a first plug connected to one end of a chord, a second plug connected to the other end of the chord, the chord spanning between the first plug and the second plug and configured for the transmission of an electrical current; a casting having a retraction cavity, the retraction cavity enveloping a power prong and a data prong, the power prong having one or more than one connector pins for power transmission, the data prong having one or more than one connector pins for data transmission; a switch mounted to the external portion of the casing, the switch attached to a connection member, the connection member traversing into the retraction cavity and optionally being connected to the power prong; and, the switch being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position such that when retracted the data prong cannot engage with an electronically powered device. 6) A power and data cable with retractable functionality of claim 5, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the first plug. 7) A power and data cable with retractable functionality of claim 5, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the second plug. 8) A cable with retractable power supply and retractable data supply comprising:
a first plug connected to one end of a chord, a second plug connected to the other end of the chord, the chord spanning between the first plug and the second plug and configured for the transmission of an electrical current; a casting having a retraction cavity, the retraction cavity enveloping a power prong and a data prong, the power prong having one or more than one connector pins for power transmission, the data prong having one or more than one connector pins for data transmission; a switch mounted to the external portion of the casing, the switch attached to a connection member, the connection member traversing into the retraction cavity and being connected to the data prong; and, the switch being reversibly configurable between a retracted position and an unretracted position such that when retracted the data prong cannot engage with an electronically powered device. 9) A cable with retractable power supply and retractable data supply of claim 8, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the first plug. 10) A cable with retractable power supply and retractable data supply of claim 8, wherein the casing, the switch, the retraction cavity, the power prong, the data prong, and the connection member are on the second plug. | 2,800 |
341,332 | 16,801,669 | 2,859 | An electromagnetic radiation detector structure is adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in at least one first given range of wavelengths centred around a first wavelength λ0. The detector structure comprises an absorption region of sub-wavelength thickness configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation, the absorption region having a refractive index na, and a Fabry-Perot cavity housing the absorption region. The disclosure further concerns a method to manufacture the detector structure. | 1. Electromagnetic radiation detector structure adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in at least one first given range of wavelengths centred around a first wavelength λ0, the detector structure comprising:
a support having a receiving surface arranged to receive at least part of the electromagnetic radiation and at least one conductive medium having negative permittivity, a Fabry-Perot cavity arranged in the support and extending at least in part along a thickness of the support, said Fabry-Perot cavity leading onto a first opening of the receiving surface and being delimited by the at least one conductive medium having negative permittivity , the Fabry-Perot cavity having on at least one first portion of thickness of the support including the receiving surface a mean Fabry-Perot cavity length Wc in at least one direction parallel to the receiving surface, the Fabry-Perot cavity housing at least one first confinement medium of refractive index nd;
an absorption region, configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation, the absorption region having a refractive index na,
wherein the mean Fabry-Perot cavity length Wc is equal to λ0/(2.neff), with neff being an effective refractive index of a guided mode in the absorption region (131) at the first wavelength λ0;
wherein the absorption region has a thickness ha of less than λ0/(5.na);
wherein the absorption region is housed in the Fabry-Perot cavity at a distance h1 from the first opening of said Fabry-Perot cavity of between λ0/(50.nd) and λ0/(4.nd);
wherein the thickness of the at least one first portion is equal to or greater than h1; and
wherein the refractive index nd of the at least one first confinement medium being lower than 80% of the refractive index na of the absorption region. 2. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the Fabry-Perot cavity on a second portion of the thickness of the support has at least one dimension in at least one direction substantially parallel to the receiving surface of between 80% and 120% the mean Fabry-Perot cavity length Wc. 3. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the absorption region is arranged in an absorption layer, said absorption layer extending outside the Fabry-Perot cavity in a plane parallel to the receiving surface. 4. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the Fabry-Perot cavity, opposite the first opening, is at least partly closed by a reflective wall configured to reflect the electromagnetic radiation, said reflective wall being arranged at a distance h3 from the absorption region of between λ0/(10.nd) and λ0/(2.nd), with nd being the refractive index of the first confinement medium, said distance h3 between the reflective wall. 5. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the Fabry-Perot cavity has a second opening opposite the first opening, the distance h2 between said second opening and the absorption region being greater than λ0/(2.nd). 6. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the detector structure comprises a least one adaptation layer of refractive index nr arranged between the absorption region and the confinement medium, the refractive index of said adaptation layer having a value which is included between the refractive index nd of the at least one confinement medium and the refractive index na of the absorption layer, the refractive index na value of the adaptation layer decreasing from the absorption region towards the confinement medium. 7. The detector structure according to claim 1 comprising a second confinement medium, said second confinement medium being housed in the Fabry-Perot cavity opposite the first opening, with the first confinement medium interposed between the absorption region and said second confinement medium, the second confinement medium having a refractive index nd′ lower than the refractive index nd of the first confinement medium. 8. The detector structure according to claim 1, the at least one first confinement medium also being arranged outside the Fabry Perot cavity, said first confinement medium at the part thereof outside the Fabry-Perot cavity forming a coating for the conductive medium having negative permittivity of thickness h1′ less than h1. 9. The detector structure according to claim 1 further comprising an incident medium upstream of the support, in the direction of propagation of electromagnetic radiation, the incident medium being configured to receive and transmit electromagnetic radiation to the support, the incident medium having a refractive index next equal to or lower than the refractive index nd of the first confinement medium,
wherein the first confinement medium is entirely contained within the Fabry-Perot cavity. 10. Device for the detection of electromagnetic radiation comprising a plurality of detector structures according to claim 1, each of the detector structures being adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in the at least one first given range of wavelengths centred around the first wavelength λ0, said detector structures being arranged periodically with periodicity of less than λ0/next where next is the refractive index of an incident medium upstream of the support in the direction of propagation of electromagnetic radiation. 11. Method for manufacturing an electromagnetic radiation detector structure adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in at least one first given range of wavelengths centre around a first wavelength λ0, the manufacturing method comprising:
providing an absorption region of thickness ha less than λ0/(5.na), said absorption region having a refractive index na and being associated with at least one confinement medium of refractive index nd lower than 80% of the refractive index na of the absorption region,
forming a Fabry-Perot cavity so as to house at least partly therein the at least one first confinement medium and the absorption region, the Fabry-Perot cavity being laterally delimited by at least one first conductive medium having negative permittivity with neff being an effective refractive index of a guided mode in the absorption region at wavelength λ0, said Fabry-Perot cavity housing the absorption region at a distance h1 from the first opening of said Fabry-Perot cavity of between λ0/(50.nd) and λ0/(4.nd), said forming of the Fabry Perot cavity allowing the formation of a support having a receiving surface and the at least one conductive medium, the receiving surface being arranged to receive at least part of the electromagnetic radiation and having the first opening into which the Fabry Perrot cavity leads, the Fabry-Perot cavity extending at least in part along a thickness of said support and, on at least one first portion of thickness of the support including the receiving surface and in at least one direction substantially parallel to the receiving surface, having a mean Fabry-Perot cavity length We substantially equal to λ0/(2.neff), with neff being an effective refractive index of a guided mode in the absorption region at wavelength λ0. 12. Method for manufacturing a detector structure according to claim 11, wherein at the providing of the absorption region, there is provided the support comprising a substrate, an absorption layer and a passivation layer in succession, at least one among the substrate and passivation layer being intended to form the at least one confinement medium,
the forming of a Fabry-Perot cavity comprising: localised etching of the support to make at least one first penetration corresponding to the conductive medium having negative permittivity, the at least one penetration delimiting a cavity housing at least in part the confinement medium and the absorption region; filling the at least one penetration with the material of conductive medium having negative permittivity to form said conductive medium having negative permittivity and hence the Fabry-Perot cavity. 13. The manufacturing method according to claim 11 further including:
providing a second support comprising a control circuit, said control circuit having at least one contact pad;
connecting the detector structure to the control circuit via indium bump hybridization of the conducting reflective medium to the first contact pad. 14. The manufacturing method according to claim 12, where prior to the localised etching are provided:
providing a second support comprising a control circuit, said control circuit having at least one contact pad; bonding the first support onto a surface of the first support comprising the at least one contact pad, wherein during the localised etching, the at least one penetration leads onto the contact pad, so that during the filling of the at least one penetration, the conductive material having negative permittivity is also deposited in contact with the at least one contact pad. | An electromagnetic radiation detector structure is adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in at least one first given range of wavelengths centred around a first wavelength λ0. The detector structure comprises an absorption region of sub-wavelength thickness configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation, the absorption region having a refractive index na, and a Fabry-Perot cavity housing the absorption region. The disclosure further concerns a method to manufacture the detector structure.1. Electromagnetic radiation detector structure adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in at least one first given range of wavelengths centred around a first wavelength λ0, the detector structure comprising:
a support having a receiving surface arranged to receive at least part of the electromagnetic radiation and at least one conductive medium having negative permittivity, a Fabry-Perot cavity arranged in the support and extending at least in part along a thickness of the support, said Fabry-Perot cavity leading onto a first opening of the receiving surface and being delimited by the at least one conductive medium having negative permittivity , the Fabry-Perot cavity having on at least one first portion of thickness of the support including the receiving surface a mean Fabry-Perot cavity length Wc in at least one direction parallel to the receiving surface, the Fabry-Perot cavity housing at least one first confinement medium of refractive index nd;
an absorption region, configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation, the absorption region having a refractive index na,
wherein the mean Fabry-Perot cavity length Wc is equal to λ0/(2.neff), with neff being an effective refractive index of a guided mode in the absorption region (131) at the first wavelength λ0;
wherein the absorption region has a thickness ha of less than λ0/(5.na);
wherein the absorption region is housed in the Fabry-Perot cavity at a distance h1 from the first opening of said Fabry-Perot cavity of between λ0/(50.nd) and λ0/(4.nd);
wherein the thickness of the at least one first portion is equal to or greater than h1; and
wherein the refractive index nd of the at least one first confinement medium being lower than 80% of the refractive index na of the absorption region. 2. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the Fabry-Perot cavity on a second portion of the thickness of the support has at least one dimension in at least one direction substantially parallel to the receiving surface of between 80% and 120% the mean Fabry-Perot cavity length Wc. 3. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the absorption region is arranged in an absorption layer, said absorption layer extending outside the Fabry-Perot cavity in a plane parallel to the receiving surface. 4. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the Fabry-Perot cavity, opposite the first opening, is at least partly closed by a reflective wall configured to reflect the electromagnetic radiation, said reflective wall being arranged at a distance h3 from the absorption region of between λ0/(10.nd) and λ0/(2.nd), with nd being the refractive index of the first confinement medium, said distance h3 between the reflective wall. 5. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the Fabry-Perot cavity has a second opening opposite the first opening, the distance h2 between said second opening and the absorption region being greater than λ0/(2.nd). 6. The detector structure according to claim 1, wherein the detector structure comprises a least one adaptation layer of refractive index nr arranged between the absorption region and the confinement medium, the refractive index of said adaptation layer having a value which is included between the refractive index nd of the at least one confinement medium and the refractive index na of the absorption layer, the refractive index na value of the adaptation layer decreasing from the absorption region towards the confinement medium. 7. The detector structure according to claim 1 comprising a second confinement medium, said second confinement medium being housed in the Fabry-Perot cavity opposite the first opening, with the first confinement medium interposed between the absorption region and said second confinement medium, the second confinement medium having a refractive index nd′ lower than the refractive index nd of the first confinement medium. 8. The detector structure according to claim 1, the at least one first confinement medium also being arranged outside the Fabry Perot cavity, said first confinement medium at the part thereof outside the Fabry-Perot cavity forming a coating for the conductive medium having negative permittivity of thickness h1′ less than h1. 9. The detector structure according to claim 1 further comprising an incident medium upstream of the support, in the direction of propagation of electromagnetic radiation, the incident medium being configured to receive and transmit electromagnetic radiation to the support, the incident medium having a refractive index next equal to or lower than the refractive index nd of the first confinement medium,
wherein the first confinement medium is entirely contained within the Fabry-Perot cavity. 10. Device for the detection of electromagnetic radiation comprising a plurality of detector structures according to claim 1, each of the detector structures being adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in the at least one first given range of wavelengths centred around the first wavelength λ0, said detector structures being arranged periodically with periodicity of less than λ0/next where next is the refractive index of an incident medium upstream of the support in the direction of propagation of electromagnetic radiation. 11. Method for manufacturing an electromagnetic radiation detector structure adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation in at least one first given range of wavelengths centre around a first wavelength λ0, the manufacturing method comprising:
providing an absorption region of thickness ha less than λ0/(5.na), said absorption region having a refractive index na and being associated with at least one confinement medium of refractive index nd lower than 80% of the refractive index na of the absorption region,
forming a Fabry-Perot cavity so as to house at least partly therein the at least one first confinement medium and the absorption region, the Fabry-Perot cavity being laterally delimited by at least one first conductive medium having negative permittivity with neff being an effective refractive index of a guided mode in the absorption region at wavelength λ0, said Fabry-Perot cavity housing the absorption region at a distance h1 from the first opening of said Fabry-Perot cavity of between λ0/(50.nd) and λ0/(4.nd), said forming of the Fabry Perot cavity allowing the formation of a support having a receiving surface and the at least one conductive medium, the receiving surface being arranged to receive at least part of the electromagnetic radiation and having the first opening into which the Fabry Perrot cavity leads, the Fabry-Perot cavity extending at least in part along a thickness of said support and, on at least one first portion of thickness of the support including the receiving surface and in at least one direction substantially parallel to the receiving surface, having a mean Fabry-Perot cavity length We substantially equal to λ0/(2.neff), with neff being an effective refractive index of a guided mode in the absorption region at wavelength λ0. 12. Method for manufacturing a detector structure according to claim 11, wherein at the providing of the absorption region, there is provided the support comprising a substrate, an absorption layer and a passivation layer in succession, at least one among the substrate and passivation layer being intended to form the at least one confinement medium,
the forming of a Fabry-Perot cavity comprising: localised etching of the support to make at least one first penetration corresponding to the conductive medium having negative permittivity, the at least one penetration delimiting a cavity housing at least in part the confinement medium and the absorption region; filling the at least one penetration with the material of conductive medium having negative permittivity to form said conductive medium having negative permittivity and hence the Fabry-Perot cavity. 13. The manufacturing method according to claim 11 further including:
providing a second support comprising a control circuit, said control circuit having at least one contact pad;
connecting the detector structure to the control circuit via indium bump hybridization of the conducting reflective medium to the first contact pad. 14. The manufacturing method according to claim 12, where prior to the localised etching are provided:
providing a second support comprising a control circuit, said control circuit having at least one contact pad; bonding the first support onto a surface of the first support comprising the at least one contact pad, wherein during the localised etching, the at least one penetration leads onto the contact pad, so that during the filling of the at least one penetration, the conductive material having negative permittivity is also deposited in contact with the at least one contact pad. | 2,800 |
341,333 | 16,801,673 | 2,844 | Provided area refrigerator and a control method thereof. The refrigerator is characterized by enabling at least a part of a refrigerator door to be selectively transparent by a user's operation, such that the user sees through an inside of the refrigerator while the refrigerator while the refrigerator door is closed. | 1-10. (canceled) 11. A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet configured to form a storage space; a door rotatably connected to the cabinet by a hinge to allow access to the storage space, the door including a door frame having an opening; a door pane configured to cover the opening of the door frame; a display provided at a rear side of the door pane; and a light source provided inside the refrigerator, wherein the light source is turned on and the display is activated while the door is closed to allow an inside of the refrigerator and the display to be seen through the door pane from outside of the refrigerator based on receiving a user input. 12. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the display is provided on the door. 13. The refrigerator of claim 12, wherein the display is mounted on the door frame. 14. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the display is configured to display an operation state of the refrigerator. 15. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the door pane includes a front pane, a rear pane spaced apart from a rear surface of the front pane, and a spacer provided between the front pane and the rear pane, and the display is provided at a rear of the rear pane. 16. The refrigerator of claim 15, further comprising a sensor provided to be in contact with the front pane of the door pane and configured to detect the user input applied on the front pane of the door pane. 17. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein the front pane includes a viewing area and a bezel area provided outside the viewing area, and the sensor is provided at the bezel area of the front pane. 18. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein the sensor includes a microphone which senses a sound wave and which is mounted in a microphone mounting recess provided at the front pane. 19. The refrigerator of claim 18, wherein the microphone mounting recess is provided to be in contact with a rear surface of the front pane, and the microphone is spaced apart from the rear surface of the front pane to form a space between the front pane and the microphone. 20. A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet configured to form a storage space; a first door rotatably connected to the cabinet by a first hinge, the first door having a first door frame with a first opening which is in communication with the storage space; a display provided on the first door; a second door configured to open and close the first opening and including a second door frame with a second opening and a door pane provided at the second opening; and a light source provided inside the refrigerator, wherein the light source is turned on and the display is activated while the first door and the second door are closed to allow an inside of the refrigerator and the display to be seen through the door pane from outside of the refrigerator based on receiving a user input. 21. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the display is mounted on the first door frame. 22. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the display is configured to display an operation state of the refrigerator. 23. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the door pane includes a front pane, a rear pane spaced apart from a rear surface of the front pane, and a spacer provided between the front pane and the rear pane, and the display is provided at a rear of the rear pane. 24. The refrigerator of claim 23, further comprising a sensor provided to be in contact with the front pane of the door pane and configured to detect the user input applied on the front pane of the door pane. 25. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the front pane includes a viewing area and a bezel area provided outside the viewing area, and the sensor is provided at the bezel area of the front pane. 26. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the sensor includes a microphone which senses a sound wave and which is mounted in a microphone mounting recess provided at the front pane. 27. The refrigerator of claim 26, wherein the microphone mounting recess is provided to be in contact with a rear surface of the front pane, and the microphone is spaced apart from the rear surface of the front pane to form a space between the front pane and the microphone. 28. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the second door frame includes a sensor recess formed on a lower side of the second door frame to receive the sensor, and an opening so that the sensor is in contact with the front pane when the sensor is received in the sensor recess. 29. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the second door frame and the door pane define an insulation space in which an insulation is provided, and the second door frame includes a first injection port to inject a foaming solution for molding the insulation and formed at a position which is at least partially overlapped with a space between the door pane and one side frame of the second door frame. 30. The refrigerator of claim 29, wherein the second door frame includes a second injection port to inject the foaming solution for molding the insulation and spaced apart from the first injection port. | Provided area refrigerator and a control method thereof. The refrigerator is characterized by enabling at least a part of a refrigerator door to be selectively transparent by a user's operation, such that the user sees through an inside of the refrigerator while the refrigerator while the refrigerator door is closed.1-10. (canceled) 11. A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet configured to form a storage space; a door rotatably connected to the cabinet by a hinge to allow access to the storage space, the door including a door frame having an opening; a door pane configured to cover the opening of the door frame; a display provided at a rear side of the door pane; and a light source provided inside the refrigerator, wherein the light source is turned on and the display is activated while the door is closed to allow an inside of the refrigerator and the display to be seen through the door pane from outside of the refrigerator based on receiving a user input. 12. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the display is provided on the door. 13. The refrigerator of claim 12, wherein the display is mounted on the door frame. 14. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the display is configured to display an operation state of the refrigerator. 15. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the door pane includes a front pane, a rear pane spaced apart from a rear surface of the front pane, and a spacer provided between the front pane and the rear pane, and the display is provided at a rear of the rear pane. 16. The refrigerator of claim 15, further comprising a sensor provided to be in contact with the front pane of the door pane and configured to detect the user input applied on the front pane of the door pane. 17. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein the front pane includes a viewing area and a bezel area provided outside the viewing area, and the sensor is provided at the bezel area of the front pane. 18. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein the sensor includes a microphone which senses a sound wave and which is mounted in a microphone mounting recess provided at the front pane. 19. The refrigerator of claim 18, wherein the microphone mounting recess is provided to be in contact with a rear surface of the front pane, and the microphone is spaced apart from the rear surface of the front pane to form a space between the front pane and the microphone. 20. A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet configured to form a storage space; a first door rotatably connected to the cabinet by a first hinge, the first door having a first door frame with a first opening which is in communication with the storage space; a display provided on the first door; a second door configured to open and close the first opening and including a second door frame with a second opening and a door pane provided at the second opening; and a light source provided inside the refrigerator, wherein the light source is turned on and the display is activated while the first door and the second door are closed to allow an inside of the refrigerator and the display to be seen through the door pane from outside of the refrigerator based on receiving a user input. 21. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the display is mounted on the first door frame. 22. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the display is configured to display an operation state of the refrigerator. 23. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the door pane includes a front pane, a rear pane spaced apart from a rear surface of the front pane, and a spacer provided between the front pane and the rear pane, and the display is provided at a rear of the rear pane. 24. The refrigerator of claim 23, further comprising a sensor provided to be in contact with the front pane of the door pane and configured to detect the user input applied on the front pane of the door pane. 25. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the front pane includes a viewing area and a bezel area provided outside the viewing area, and the sensor is provided at the bezel area of the front pane. 26. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the sensor includes a microphone which senses a sound wave and which is mounted in a microphone mounting recess provided at the front pane. 27. The refrigerator of claim 26, wherein the microphone mounting recess is provided to be in contact with a rear surface of the front pane, and the microphone is spaced apart from the rear surface of the front pane to form a space between the front pane and the microphone. 28. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the second door frame includes a sensor recess formed on a lower side of the second door frame to receive the sensor, and an opening so that the sensor is in contact with the front pane when the sensor is received in the sensor recess. 29. The refrigerator of claim 24, wherein the second door frame and the door pane define an insulation space in which an insulation is provided, and the second door frame includes a first injection port to inject a foaming solution for molding the insulation and formed at a position which is at least partially overlapped with a space between the door pane and one side frame of the second door frame. 30. The refrigerator of claim 29, wherein the second door frame includes a second injection port to inject the foaming solution for molding the insulation and spaced apart from the first injection port. | 2,800 |
341,334 | 16,801,667 | 2,844 | A CMOS gain element is disclosed herein. Also disclosed herein are splitters, comprising the CMOS gain element, and local oscillator distribution circuitry comprising the splitters and the CMOS gain elements. Semiconductor devices comprising the local oscillator distribution circuitry may have smaller footprints and reduced power consumption relative to prior art devices. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A method, comprising:
providing, to a transmitter splitter, a first signal having a wavelength λ; providing, to a receiver splitter, a second signal having the wavelength λ; providing, by the transmitter splitter, a plurality of transmitter signals, wherein each of the transmitter signals has the wavelength λ; and providing, by the receiver splitter, a plurality of receiver signals, wherein each of the receiver signals has the wavelength λ; wherein the first signal is provided over a first line having a length of λ/X, wherein X is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the second signal is provided over a second line having a length of λ/Y, wherein Y is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; or both. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein:
the length of the first line is from λ/8 to λ/16, and the length of the second line is from λ/8 to λ/16 23. The method of claim 22, wherein:
the length of the first line is about λ/10; and the length of the second line is about λ/10. 24. The method of claim 21, further comprising adjusting a gain of at least one of the first signal or the second signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of at least one of the transmitter splitter and the receiver splitter. 25. The method of claim 21, further comprising:
receiving, by a first splitter, an input signal having a wavelength λ, and splitting, by the first splitter, the input signal to provide the first signal and the second signal. 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising adjusting a gain of the input signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of the first splitter. 27. The method of claim 25, further comprising at least one of:
providing, by an oscillator, the input signal; or receiving, by a phase lock loop, a reference signal and a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) signal, and providing, by the phase lock loop, the input signal, wherein the input signal is phase locked. 28. The method of claim 21, further comprising:
carrying, by each of a plurality of third lines, one transmitter signal provided by the transmitter splitter, wherein each third line has a length of λ/Z, wherein Z is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; carrying, by each of a plurality of fourth lines, one receiver signal provided by the receiver splitter, wherein each fourth line has a length of λ/W, wherein W is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; repeating, by each of a plurality of transmitter repeaters, the one transmitter signal carried by a one of the third lines; and repeating, by each of a plurality of receiver repeaters, the one receiver signal carried by a one of the fourth lines. 29. The method of claim 28, further comprising adjusting a gain of at least one transmitter signal or at least one receiver signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of at least one of the transmitter splitter, the receiver splitter, the transmitter repeaters, or the receiver repeaters. 30. The method of claim 28, further comprising:
carrying, by each of a plurality of fifth lines, one transmitter signal provided by one of the plurality of transmitter repeaters, wherein each fifth line has a length of λ/V, wherein V is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; carrying, by each of a plurality of sixth lines, one receiver signal provided by one of the plurality of receiver repeaters, wherein each sixth line has a length of λ/U, wherein U is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; multiplying, by a transmitter frequency multiplier, a frequency of each of the transmitter signals carried by the plurality of fifth lines; and multiplying, by a receiver frequency multiplier, a frequency of each of the receiver signals carried by the plurality of sixth lines; wherein each of the fifth lines has a length from λ/4 to λ/32 and each of the sixth lines has a length from λ/4 to λ/32. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein multiplying, by the transmitter frequency multiplier, is by 2, 3, 4, or 5, and multiplying, by the receiver frequency multiplier, is by 2, 3, 4, or 5. 32. The method of claim 21, wherein providing, by the transmitter splitter, comprises providing three transmitter signals, and providing, by the receiver splitter, comprises providing four receiver signals. 33. A method, comprising:
providing, by a phase lock loop, a first millimeter-wave (mm-wave) signal having a wavelength, λ; receiving, by a first splitter, the first signal; providing, by the first splitter, a first transmit signal on a first transmit line, and a first receive signal on a first receive line, wherein the first transmit signal and the first receive signal each have the wavelength λ; receiving, by a transmitter splitter, the first transmit signal; providing, by the transmitter splitter, a second transmit signal on a second transmit line and a third transmit signal on a third transmit line, wherein the second and third transmit signals each have the wavelength λ; and receiving, by a receiver splitter, the first receive signal; and providing, by the receiver splitter, a second receive signal on a second receive line and a third receive signal on a third receive line, wherein the second and third receive signals each have the wavelength λ; wherein at least one of the following conditions is true: the first transmit line has a length of λ/X, wherein X is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the first receive line has a length of λ/Y, wherein Y is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the second transmit line has a length of λ/Z, wherein Z is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the third transmit line has a length of λ/W, wherein W is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the second receive line has a length of λ/V, wherein V is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; or the third receive line has a length of λ/U, wherein U is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive. 34. The method of claim 33, further comprising adjusting a gain of at least one signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of at least one of the first splitter, the transmitter splitter, and the receiver splitter. 35. A method, comprising:
adjusting a gain of a splitter comprising (I) at least one gain element, the gain element comprising: (A) a first circuit comprising (i) a capacitor; and (ii) a resistor, a first transistor, and a second transistor in parallel; wherein one of the first transistor and the second transistor is an NMOS transistor, and the other of the first transistor and the second transistor is a PMOS transistor; and (B) a second circuit comprising (i) a capacitor; and (ii) a resistor, a third transistor, and a fourth transistor in parallel; wherein one of the third transistor and the fourth transistor is an NMOS transistor, and the other of the third transistor and the fourth transistor is a PMOS transistor; wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a first back gate voltage of at least one of the first transistor and the third transistor; adjusting a second back gate voltage of at least one of the second transistor and the fourth transistor; or both. | A CMOS gain element is disclosed herein. Also disclosed herein are splitters, comprising the CMOS gain element, and local oscillator distribution circuitry comprising the splitters and the CMOS gain elements. Semiconductor devices comprising the local oscillator distribution circuitry may have smaller footprints and reduced power consumption relative to prior art devices.1-20. (canceled) 21. A method, comprising:
providing, to a transmitter splitter, a first signal having a wavelength λ; providing, to a receiver splitter, a second signal having the wavelength λ; providing, by the transmitter splitter, a plurality of transmitter signals, wherein each of the transmitter signals has the wavelength λ; and providing, by the receiver splitter, a plurality of receiver signals, wherein each of the receiver signals has the wavelength λ; wherein the first signal is provided over a first line having a length of λ/X, wherein X is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the second signal is provided over a second line having a length of λ/Y, wherein Y is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; or both. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein:
the length of the first line is from λ/8 to λ/16, and the length of the second line is from λ/8 to λ/16 23. The method of claim 22, wherein:
the length of the first line is about λ/10; and the length of the second line is about λ/10. 24. The method of claim 21, further comprising adjusting a gain of at least one of the first signal or the second signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of at least one of the transmitter splitter and the receiver splitter. 25. The method of claim 21, further comprising:
receiving, by a first splitter, an input signal having a wavelength λ, and splitting, by the first splitter, the input signal to provide the first signal and the second signal. 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising adjusting a gain of the input signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of the first splitter. 27. The method of claim 25, further comprising at least one of:
providing, by an oscillator, the input signal; or receiving, by a phase lock loop, a reference signal and a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) signal, and providing, by the phase lock loop, the input signal, wherein the input signal is phase locked. 28. The method of claim 21, further comprising:
carrying, by each of a plurality of third lines, one transmitter signal provided by the transmitter splitter, wherein each third line has a length of λ/Z, wherein Z is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; carrying, by each of a plurality of fourth lines, one receiver signal provided by the receiver splitter, wherein each fourth line has a length of λ/W, wherein W is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; repeating, by each of a plurality of transmitter repeaters, the one transmitter signal carried by a one of the third lines; and repeating, by each of a plurality of receiver repeaters, the one receiver signal carried by a one of the fourth lines. 29. The method of claim 28, further comprising adjusting a gain of at least one transmitter signal or at least one receiver signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of at least one of the transmitter splitter, the receiver splitter, the transmitter repeaters, or the receiver repeaters. 30. The method of claim 28, further comprising:
carrying, by each of a plurality of fifth lines, one transmitter signal provided by one of the plurality of transmitter repeaters, wherein each fifth line has a length of λ/V, wherein V is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; carrying, by each of a plurality of sixth lines, one receiver signal provided by one of the plurality of receiver repeaters, wherein each sixth line has a length of λ/U, wherein U is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; multiplying, by a transmitter frequency multiplier, a frequency of each of the transmitter signals carried by the plurality of fifth lines; and multiplying, by a receiver frequency multiplier, a frequency of each of the receiver signals carried by the plurality of sixth lines; wherein each of the fifth lines has a length from λ/4 to λ/32 and each of the sixth lines has a length from λ/4 to λ/32. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein multiplying, by the transmitter frequency multiplier, is by 2, 3, 4, or 5, and multiplying, by the receiver frequency multiplier, is by 2, 3, 4, or 5. 32. The method of claim 21, wherein providing, by the transmitter splitter, comprises providing three transmitter signals, and providing, by the receiver splitter, comprises providing four receiver signals. 33. A method, comprising:
providing, by a phase lock loop, a first millimeter-wave (mm-wave) signal having a wavelength, λ; receiving, by a first splitter, the first signal; providing, by the first splitter, a first transmit signal on a first transmit line, and a first receive signal on a first receive line, wherein the first transmit signal and the first receive signal each have the wavelength λ; receiving, by a transmitter splitter, the first transmit signal; providing, by the transmitter splitter, a second transmit signal on a second transmit line and a third transmit signal on a third transmit line, wherein the second and third transmit signals each have the wavelength λ; and receiving, by a receiver splitter, the first receive signal; and providing, by the receiver splitter, a second receive signal on a second receive line and a third receive signal on a third receive line, wherein the second and third receive signals each have the wavelength λ; wherein at least one of the following conditions is true: the first transmit line has a length of λ/X, wherein X is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the first receive line has a length of λ/Y, wherein Y is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the second transmit line has a length of λ/Z, wherein Z is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the third transmit line has a length of λ/W, wherein W is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; the second receive line has a length of λ/V, wherein V is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive; or the third receive line has a length of λ/U, wherein U is an integer from 4 to 32, inclusive. 34. The method of claim 33, further comprising adjusting a gain of at least one signal, wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a back gate voltage of at least one transistor of at least one of the first splitter, the transmitter splitter, and the receiver splitter. 35. A method, comprising:
adjusting a gain of a splitter comprising (I) at least one gain element, the gain element comprising: (A) a first circuit comprising (i) a capacitor; and (ii) a resistor, a first transistor, and a second transistor in parallel; wherein one of the first transistor and the second transistor is an NMOS transistor, and the other of the first transistor and the second transistor is a PMOS transistor; and (B) a second circuit comprising (i) a capacitor; and (ii) a resistor, a third transistor, and a fourth transistor in parallel; wherein one of the third transistor and the fourth transistor is an NMOS transistor, and the other of the third transistor and the fourth transistor is a PMOS transistor; wherein adjusting the gain comprises adjusting a first back gate voltage of at least one of the first transistor and the third transistor; adjusting a second back gate voltage of at least one of the second transistor and the fourth transistor; or both. | 2,800 |
341,335 | 16,801,631 | 2,844 | A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber and a method of operation thereof are disclosed. Chambers and methods are described that provide a chamber comprising an upper shield with two holes that are positioned to permit alternate sputtering from two targets. | 1. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate to support a first target comprising a first material during a sputtering process and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate configured to support a second target comprising a second material different from the first material during a deposition process; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies including a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield and with respect to the first and second cathode assemblies to expose the first target during a deposition process and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target during a deposition process, the chamber configured to alternately sputter the first material from the first target and the second material from the second target onto a substrate when a substrate is placed in the chamber, the alternate deposition of the first material and the second material performed without rotating the upper shield. 2. The PVD chamber according to claim 1, further comprising a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate and a third target comprising a third material that is the same as the first material and a fourth cathode assembly including a backing plate and a fourth target comprising a fourth material that is the same as the third material. 3. The PVD chamber according to claim 2, wherein the upper shield is rotatable from a first position in which the first target and the second target are exposed during a deposition process, and the PVD chamber is configured so the upper shield is rotatable to a second position in which the third target and the fourth target are exposed for a pasting process in which material from the third target and the fourth target is pasted on the interior of the chamber while the first target and the second target are covered by the upper shield. 4. The PVD chamber of claim 3, the upper shield having a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height sufficient so that during a deposition process, the raised area prevents material sputtered from the first target from being deposited on the second target and to prevent material sputtered from the second target from being deposited on the first target. 5. The PVD chamber of claim 4, wherein the height of the raised area is greater than one centimeter from the flat inside surface and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole. 6. The PVD chamber of claim 5, wherein the first cathode assembly comprises a first magnet spaced apart from the first backing plate at a first distance and the second cathode assembly comprises a second magnet spaced apart from the second backing plate at a second distance, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are movable such that the first distance can be varied and the second distance can be varied. 7. The PVD chamber of claim 6, wherein the first magnet and second magnet are configured to be moved to decrease the first distance and the second distance to increase magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet and to increase the first distance and the second distance to decrease magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet. 8. The PVD chamber of claim 3, wherein the first target comprises a molybdenum target and the second target comprises a silicon target. 9. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate supporting a first target comprising molybdenum and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate supporting a second target comprising silicon, a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate supporting a third target comprising molybdenum, and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth backing plate supporting a fourth target comprising molybdenum; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target when the upper shield is in a first position, the upper shield having a flat surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the upper shield positioned with respect to the first target and the second target and the PVD chamber to permit molybdenum and silicon material to be alternately sputtered from the first target and the second target respectively without rotating the upper shield; and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole, wherein the upper shield is rotatable to allow one of the first shield hole and the second shield hole to expose the first target and one of third target and the fourth target. 10. The PVD chamber of claim 9, wherein upper shield is configured to be rotated to a second position with respect to the first target, the second target, the third target and the fourth target so that the second shield hole is over the third target to expose the third target and the first shield hole is over the fourth target to expose the fourth target. 11. The PVD chamber of claim 10, wherein when the upper shield is in the second position, the PVD chamber is configured to perform a pasting operation wherein molybdenum from the third target and the fourth target are pasted on the interior of the chamber and the first target and the second target are covered by the upper shield. 12. A method of depositing alternating material layers in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
operating a PVD chamber comprising a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first target comprising a first material, a second cathode assembly including a second target comprising a second material different from the first material, a third cathode assembly including a third target comprising the same material as the first target, and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth target comprising a material the same as the first target; disposing an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies, the upper shield having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the fourth target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the third target, and alternately sputtering material from the third target and the fourth target to deposit the third target material and the fourth target material on an interior of the PVD chamber. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein depositing material from the third target and the fourth target prevents defects deposited from the first target from contaminating the interior of the PVD chamber. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the upper shield further comprises a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole includes a raised area having a length at least equal to the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising rotating the upper shield so that the first shield hole is over the first target to expose the first target and the second shield hole is over the second target to expose the second target. 17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising placing a substrate in the chamber and alternately sputtering material from the first target and the second target without rotating the upper shield, wherein the raised area prevents the first material from contaminating the second target and prevents the second material from contaminating the first target. 18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the substrate comprises an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank. 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the first target material comprises molybdenum and the second target material comprises silicon. 20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising depositing multiple alternating materials layers comprising a first layer comprising molybdenum and a second layer comprising silicon. | A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber and a method of operation thereof are disclosed. Chambers and methods are described that provide a chamber comprising an upper shield with two holes that are positioned to permit alternate sputtering from two targets.1. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate to support a first target comprising a first material during a sputtering process and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate configured to support a second target comprising a second material different from the first material during a deposition process; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies including a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield and with respect to the first and second cathode assemblies to expose the first target during a deposition process and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target during a deposition process, the chamber configured to alternately sputter the first material from the first target and the second material from the second target onto a substrate when a substrate is placed in the chamber, the alternate deposition of the first material and the second material performed without rotating the upper shield. 2. The PVD chamber according to claim 1, further comprising a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate and a third target comprising a third material that is the same as the first material and a fourth cathode assembly including a backing plate and a fourth target comprising a fourth material that is the same as the third material. 3. The PVD chamber according to claim 2, wherein the upper shield is rotatable from a first position in which the first target and the second target are exposed during a deposition process, and the PVD chamber is configured so the upper shield is rotatable to a second position in which the third target and the fourth target are exposed for a pasting process in which material from the third target and the fourth target is pasted on the interior of the chamber while the first target and the second target are covered by the upper shield. 4. The PVD chamber of claim 3, the upper shield having a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area having a height sufficient so that during a deposition process, the raised area prevents material sputtered from the first target from being deposited on the second target and to prevent material sputtered from the second target from being deposited on the first target. 5. The PVD chamber of claim 4, wherein the height of the raised area is greater than one centimeter from the flat inside surface and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole. 6. The PVD chamber of claim 5, wherein the first cathode assembly comprises a first magnet spaced apart from the first backing plate at a first distance and the second cathode assembly comprises a second magnet spaced apart from the second backing plate at a second distance, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are movable such that the first distance can be varied and the second distance can be varied. 7. The PVD chamber of claim 6, wherein the first magnet and second magnet are configured to be moved to decrease the first distance and the second distance to increase magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet and to increase the first distance and the second distance to decrease magnetic field strength produced by the first magnet and the second magnet. 8. The PVD chamber of claim 3, wherein the first target comprises a molybdenum target and the second target comprises a silicon target. 9. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first backing plate supporting a first target comprising molybdenum and a second cathode assembly including a second backing plate supporting a second target comprising silicon, a third cathode assembly including a third backing plate supporting a third target comprising molybdenum, and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth backing plate supporting a fourth target comprising molybdenum; an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the first target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the second target when the upper shield is in a first position, the upper shield having a flat surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the upper shield positioned with respect to the first target and the second target and the PVD chamber to permit molybdenum and silicon material to be alternately sputtered from the first target and the second target respectively without rotating the upper shield; and a raised area in the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole, the raised area and having a length greater than the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole, wherein the upper shield is rotatable to allow one of the first shield hole and the second shield hole to expose the first target and one of third target and the fourth target. 10. The PVD chamber of claim 9, wherein upper shield is configured to be rotated to a second position with respect to the first target, the second target, the third target and the fourth target so that the second shield hole is over the third target to expose the third target and the first shield hole is over the fourth target to expose the fourth target. 11. The PVD chamber of claim 10, wherein when the upper shield is in the second position, the PVD chamber is configured to perform a pasting operation wherein molybdenum from the third target and the fourth target are pasted on the interior of the chamber and the first target and the second target are covered by the upper shield. 12. A method of depositing alternating material layers in a physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber comprising:
operating a PVD chamber comprising a plurality of cathode assemblies including a first cathode assembly including a first target comprising a first material, a second cathode assembly including a second target comprising a second material different from the first material, a third cathode assembly including a third target comprising the same material as the first target, and a fourth cathode assembly including a fourth target comprising a material the same as the first target; disposing an upper shield below the plurality of cathode assemblies, the upper shield having a first shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the fourth target and a second shield hole having a diameter and positioned on the upper shield to expose the third target, and alternately sputtering material from the third target and the fourth target to deposit the third target material and the fourth target material on an interior of the PVD chamber. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein depositing material from the third target and the fourth target prevents defects deposited from the first target from contaminating the interior of the PVD chamber. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the upper shield further comprises a flat inside surface, except for a region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the region between the first shield hole and the second shield hole includes a raised area having a length at least equal to the diameter of the first shield hole and the diameter of the second shield hole. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising rotating the upper shield so that the first shield hole is over the first target to expose the first target and the second shield hole is over the second target to expose the second target. 17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising placing a substrate in the chamber and alternately sputtering material from the first target and the second target without rotating the upper shield, wherein the raised area prevents the first material from contaminating the second target and prevents the second material from contaminating the first target. 18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the substrate comprises an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blank. 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the first target material comprises molybdenum and the second target material comprises silicon. 20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising depositing multiple alternating materials layers comprising a first layer comprising molybdenum and a second layer comprising silicon. | 2,800 |
341,336 | 16,801,640 | 2,844 | A vehicle control apparatus comprises a periphery monitoring unit configured to be capable of detecting a front vehicle traveling in front of a vehicle, and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of controlling the vehicle on the basis of a travel state of the vehicle or a travel state of the front vehicle. The vehicle control unit can carry out vehicle control in a first control state, as well as vehicle control in a second control state in which a level of autonomy of the vehicle control is higher or the extent to which a driver is required to contribute to vehicle operations is lower than in the first control state. | 1. A vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle on the basis of a plurality of control states, the apparatus comprising:
a periphery monitoring unit configured to be capable of detecting a front vehicle traveling in front of the vehicle; and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of controlling the vehicle on the basis of a travel state of the vehicle or a travel state of the front vehicle, wherein as vehicle control in the plurality of control states, the vehicle control unit can carry out vehicle control in a first control state, as well as vehicle control in a second control state in which a level of autonomy of the vehicle control is higher or the extent to which a driver is required to contribute to vehicle operations is lower than in the first control state; when, during vehicle control in the second control state, a threshold speed serving as an upper limit for carrying out vehicle control in the second control state has been reached or exceeded, the vehicle control unit carries out control to transition from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state; and a first threshold speed and a second threshold speed are set as threshold speeds, the first threshold speed being for a speed of the vehicle, and the second threshold speed being for the speed of the front vehicle and being faster than the first threshold speed. 2. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle has become greater than or equal to the first threshold speed, or the speed of the front vehicle has become greater than or equal to the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit carries out control so as to transition from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 3. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
a notification unit configured to notify the driver that they are to contribute to vehicle operations reduced under the second control state, when the speed of the vehicle has become greater than or equal to the first threshold speed or when the speed of the front vehicle has become greater than or equal to the second threshold speed; and a contribution detecting unit configured to detect the contribution to the vehicle operations, wherein the vehicle control unit carries out vehicle control in the second control state until the contribution detecting unit detects that the driver is contributing to the vehicle operations. 4. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 3,
wherein when the contribution detecting unit detects that the driver is contributing to the vehicle operations, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 5. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein a third threshold speed is set as a threshold speed for transitioning from the first control state to the second control state, the third threshold speed being slower than the first threshold speed; and when, during vehicle control in the first control state, the speed of the vehicle or the speed of the front vehicle has become less than the third threshold speed, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the first control state to vehicle control in the second control state. 6. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
a communication unit configured to be capable of communicating with another vehicle traveling in the periphery of the vehicle, wherein on the basis of information from at least one of the periphery monitoring unit and the communication unit, the vehicle control unit determines whether or not a forward front vehicle group including at least one forward front vehicle traveling in front of the front vehicle is present in the same lane as a lane in which the vehicle is traveling and within a reference inter-vehicle distance from the vehicle. 7. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 6,
wherein when, during vehicle control in the second control state, the front vehicle has made a lane change to an adjacent lane and has departed from the lane in which the vehicle is traveling, the vehicle control unit sets a speed for comparing with the second threshold speed using a speed of a forward front vehicle included in the forward front vehicle group and the speed of the front vehicle that has made the lane change. 8. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 7,
wherein the vehicle control unit compares the speed of the forward front vehicle with the speed of the front vehicle and sets the slower of the speeds as the speed for comparison with the second threshold speed. 9. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is less than the first threshold speed and the speed obtained from the comparison is less than the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit keeps the vehicle control in the second control state. 10. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is greater than or equal to the first threshold speed, or the speed obtained from the comparison is greater than or equal to the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 11. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 7,
wherein the vehicle control unit sets a speed obtained from the average of the speed of the forward front vehicle and the speed of the front vehicle as the speed for comparison with the second threshold speed. 12. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 11,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is less than the first threshold speed and the speed obtained from the average is less than the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit keeps the vehicle control in the second control state. 13. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 11,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is greater than or equal to the first threshold speed, or the speed obtained from the average is greater than or equal to the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 14. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 6,
wherein when, during the vehicle control in the second control state, the front vehicle has made a lane change to an adjacent lane and has departed the lane in which the vehicle is traveling, if the forward front vehicle group is not present in the lane, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 15. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 6,
wherein the vehicle control unit determines whether the front vehicle is to be used for following travel, carried out in the vehicle control in the second control state, on the basis of a comparison between a vehicle width of the front vehicle or a vehicle width of a forward front vehicle included in the forward front vehicle group and a threshold vehicle width serving as a reference. 16. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 15,
wherein when a vehicle width of a first forward front vehicle serving as the forward front vehicle included in the forward front vehicle group exceeds an upper limit value of the threshold vehicle width serving as a reference, or is lower than a lower limit value of the threshold vehicle width, the vehicle control unit excludes the first forward front vehicle as a target for following travel carried out in the vehicle control in the second control state. 17. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 16,
wherein when a vehicle width of a second forward front vehicle traveling in front of the first forward front vehicle in the forward front vehicle group is within a range of the threshold vehicle width, the vehicle control unit sets the second forward front vehicle as a target for following travel. 18. A vehicle capable of traveling on the basis of control by a vehicle control apparatus, the vehicle comprising:
the vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1. 19. A vehicle control method of a vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle on the basis of a plurality of control states, the method comprising:
an obtainment step of obtaining, from a periphery monitoring unit capable of detecting a front vehicle traveling in front of the vehicle, information of the front vehicle; and a vehicle control step of controlling the vehicle on the basis of a travel state of the vehicle or a travel state of the front vehicle, wherein in the vehicle control step: vehicle control in a first control state, as well as vehicle control in a second control state in which a level of autonomy of the vehicle control is higher or the extent to which a driver is required to contribute to vehicle operations is lower than in the first control state, can be carried out as vehicle control in the plurality of control states; when, during vehicle control in the second control state, a threshold speed serving as an upper limit for carrying out vehicle control in the second control state has been reached or exceeded, control to transition from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state is carried out in the vehicle control step; and a first threshold speed and a second threshold speed are set as threshold speeds, the first threshold speed being for a speed of the vehicle, and the second threshold speed being for the speed of the front vehicle and being faster than the first threshold speed. 20. A storage medium in which is stored a program that causes a computer to execute the steps of the vehicle control method according to claim 19. | A vehicle control apparatus comprises a periphery monitoring unit configured to be capable of detecting a front vehicle traveling in front of a vehicle, and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of controlling the vehicle on the basis of a travel state of the vehicle or a travel state of the front vehicle. The vehicle control unit can carry out vehicle control in a first control state, as well as vehicle control in a second control state in which a level of autonomy of the vehicle control is higher or the extent to which a driver is required to contribute to vehicle operations is lower than in the first control state.1. A vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle on the basis of a plurality of control states, the apparatus comprising:
a periphery monitoring unit configured to be capable of detecting a front vehicle traveling in front of the vehicle; and a vehicle control unit configured to be capable of controlling the vehicle on the basis of a travel state of the vehicle or a travel state of the front vehicle, wherein as vehicle control in the plurality of control states, the vehicle control unit can carry out vehicle control in a first control state, as well as vehicle control in a second control state in which a level of autonomy of the vehicle control is higher or the extent to which a driver is required to contribute to vehicle operations is lower than in the first control state; when, during vehicle control in the second control state, a threshold speed serving as an upper limit for carrying out vehicle control in the second control state has been reached or exceeded, the vehicle control unit carries out control to transition from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state; and a first threshold speed and a second threshold speed are set as threshold speeds, the first threshold speed being for a speed of the vehicle, and the second threshold speed being for the speed of the front vehicle and being faster than the first threshold speed. 2. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle has become greater than or equal to the first threshold speed, or the speed of the front vehicle has become greater than or equal to the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit carries out control so as to transition from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 3. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
a notification unit configured to notify the driver that they are to contribute to vehicle operations reduced under the second control state, when the speed of the vehicle has become greater than or equal to the first threshold speed or when the speed of the front vehicle has become greater than or equal to the second threshold speed; and a contribution detecting unit configured to detect the contribution to the vehicle operations, wherein the vehicle control unit carries out vehicle control in the second control state until the contribution detecting unit detects that the driver is contributing to the vehicle operations. 4. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 3,
wherein when the contribution detecting unit detects that the driver is contributing to the vehicle operations, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 5. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein a third threshold speed is set as a threshold speed for transitioning from the first control state to the second control state, the third threshold speed being slower than the first threshold speed; and when, during vehicle control in the first control state, the speed of the vehicle or the speed of the front vehicle has become less than the third threshold speed, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the first control state to vehicle control in the second control state. 6. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
a communication unit configured to be capable of communicating with another vehicle traveling in the periphery of the vehicle, wherein on the basis of information from at least one of the periphery monitoring unit and the communication unit, the vehicle control unit determines whether or not a forward front vehicle group including at least one forward front vehicle traveling in front of the front vehicle is present in the same lane as a lane in which the vehicle is traveling and within a reference inter-vehicle distance from the vehicle. 7. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 6,
wherein when, during vehicle control in the second control state, the front vehicle has made a lane change to an adjacent lane and has departed from the lane in which the vehicle is traveling, the vehicle control unit sets a speed for comparing with the second threshold speed using a speed of a forward front vehicle included in the forward front vehicle group and the speed of the front vehicle that has made the lane change. 8. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 7,
wherein the vehicle control unit compares the speed of the forward front vehicle with the speed of the front vehicle and sets the slower of the speeds as the speed for comparison with the second threshold speed. 9. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is less than the first threshold speed and the speed obtained from the comparison is less than the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit keeps the vehicle control in the second control state. 10. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is greater than or equal to the first threshold speed, or the speed obtained from the comparison is greater than or equal to the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 11. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 7,
wherein the vehicle control unit sets a speed obtained from the average of the speed of the forward front vehicle and the speed of the front vehicle as the speed for comparison with the second threshold speed. 12. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 11,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is less than the first threshold speed and the speed obtained from the average is less than the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit keeps the vehicle control in the second control state. 13. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 11,
wherein when the speed of the vehicle is greater than or equal to the first threshold speed, or the speed obtained from the average is greater than or equal to the second threshold speed, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 14. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 6,
wherein when, during the vehicle control in the second control state, the front vehicle has made a lane change to an adjacent lane and has departed the lane in which the vehicle is traveling, if the forward front vehicle group is not present in the lane, the vehicle control unit transitions from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state. 15. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 6,
wherein the vehicle control unit determines whether the front vehicle is to be used for following travel, carried out in the vehicle control in the second control state, on the basis of a comparison between a vehicle width of the front vehicle or a vehicle width of a forward front vehicle included in the forward front vehicle group and a threshold vehicle width serving as a reference. 16. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 15,
wherein when a vehicle width of a first forward front vehicle serving as the forward front vehicle included in the forward front vehicle group exceeds an upper limit value of the threshold vehicle width serving as a reference, or is lower than a lower limit value of the threshold vehicle width, the vehicle control unit excludes the first forward front vehicle as a target for following travel carried out in the vehicle control in the second control state. 17. The vehicle control apparatus according to claim 16,
wherein when a vehicle width of a second forward front vehicle traveling in front of the first forward front vehicle in the forward front vehicle group is within a range of the threshold vehicle width, the vehicle control unit sets the second forward front vehicle as a target for following travel. 18. A vehicle capable of traveling on the basis of control by a vehicle control apparatus, the vehicle comprising:
the vehicle control apparatus according to claim 1. 19. A vehicle control method of a vehicle control apparatus that can control a vehicle on the basis of a plurality of control states, the method comprising:
an obtainment step of obtaining, from a periphery monitoring unit capable of detecting a front vehicle traveling in front of the vehicle, information of the front vehicle; and a vehicle control step of controlling the vehicle on the basis of a travel state of the vehicle or a travel state of the front vehicle, wherein in the vehicle control step: vehicle control in a first control state, as well as vehicle control in a second control state in which a level of autonomy of the vehicle control is higher or the extent to which a driver is required to contribute to vehicle operations is lower than in the first control state, can be carried out as vehicle control in the plurality of control states; when, during vehicle control in the second control state, a threshold speed serving as an upper limit for carrying out vehicle control in the second control state has been reached or exceeded, control to transition from vehicle control in the second control state to vehicle control in the first control state is carried out in the vehicle control step; and a first threshold speed and a second threshold speed are set as threshold speeds, the first threshold speed being for a speed of the vehicle, and the second threshold speed being for the speed of the front vehicle and being faster than the first threshold speed. 20. A storage medium in which is stored a program that causes a computer to execute the steps of the vehicle control method according to claim 19. | 2,800 |
341,337 | 16,801,645 | 2,844 | Resolving software patch issues is provided. Recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices are compared. A set of common user activities are identified within the recorded activities performed by the users. A subset of highest ranking common user activities is selected from the set of common user activities. A fix for the issue with the patch is generated based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities. Corrective action based on the fix is taken to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices. | 1. A computer-implemented method for resolving software patch issues, the computer-implemented method comprising:
comparing, by a computer, recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices; identifying, by the computer, a set of common user activities within the recorded activities performed by the users; selecting, by the computer, a subset of highest ranking common user activities from the set of common user activities; generating, by the computer, a fix for the issue with the patch based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities; and taking, by the computer, corrective action based on the fix to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving, by the computer, an indication of the issue with the patch from a monitoring agent running on the client device based on user activity recorded by the monitoring agent corresponding to the application, wherein the issue caused a decrease in performance of the client device. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the indication of the issue with the patch was received within a defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication of the issue with the patch was received within the defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch, updating, by the computer, a status of a user of the client device to a distressed state. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 2 further comprising:
requesting, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and client device information from the monitoring agent;
receiving, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and the client device information from the monitoring agent; and
analyzing, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch using natural language processing, wherein the user activity is a user of the client device performing troubleshooting activities using the client device. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the user activity corresponds to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing; and
responsive to the computer determining that the user activity does correspond to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing, selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices that correspond to the client device based on the client device information and the user activity. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 2 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether an indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch has been resolved based on current user activity on the client device; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch was resolved based on the current user activity on the client device, updating, by the computer, a status of the user of the client device to a non-distressed state from a distressed state. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices based on the client device and the user activity;
sending, by the computer, the fix to the client device corresponding to the group of client devices; and
requesting, by the computer, feedback from a user of the client device regarding the fix and time to resolve the issue with the patch. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 further comprising:
ranking, by the computer, the fix based on the feedback and the time to resolve the issue with the patch. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
broadcasting, by the computer, the fix to other client devices that had the patch applied to the application. 10. A computer system for resolving software patch issues, the computer system comprising:
a bus system; a storage device connected to the bus system, wherein the storage device stores program instructions; and a processor connected to the bus system, wherein the processor executes the program instructions to: compare recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices; identify a set of common user activities within the recorded activities performed by the users; select a subset of highest ranking common user activities from the set of common user activities; generate a fix for the issue with the patch based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities; and take corrective action based on the fix to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices. 11. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the processor further executes the program instructions to: receive an indication of the issue with the patch from a monitoring agent running on the client device based on user activity recorded by the monitoring agent corresponding to the application, wherein the issue caused a decrease in performance of the client device. 12. A computer program product for resolving software patch issues, the computer program product comprising a computer readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith, the program instructions executable by a computer to cause the computer to perform a method comprising:
comparing, by the computer, recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices; identifying, by the computer, a set of common user activities within the recorded activities performed by the users; selecting, by the computer, a subset of highest ranking common user activities from the set of common user activities; generating, by the computer, a fix for the issue with the patch based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities; and taking, by the computer, corrective action based on the fix to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices. 13. The computer program product of claim 12 further comprising:
receiving, by the computer, an indication of the issue with the patch from a monitoring agent running on the client device based on user activity recorded by the monitoring agent corresponding to the application, wherein the issue caused a decrease in performance of the client device. 14. The computer program product of claim 13 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the indication of the issue with the patch was received within a defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication of the issue with the patch was received within the defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch, updating, by the computer, a status of a user of the client device to a distressed state. 15. The computer program product of claim 13 further comprising:
requesting, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and client device information from the monitoring agent;
receiving, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and the client device information from the monitoring agent; and
analyzing, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch using natural language processing, wherein the user activity is a user of the client device performing troubleshooting activities using the client device. 16. The computer program product of claim 15 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the user activity corresponds to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing; and
responsive to the computer determining that the user activity does correspond to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing, selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices that correspond to the client device based on the client device information and the user activity. 17. The computer program product of claim 13 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether an indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch has been resolved based on current user activity on the client device; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch was resolved based on the current user activity on the client device, updating, by the computer, a status of the user of the client device to a non-distressed state from a distressed state. 18. The computer program product of claim 12 further comprising:
selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices based on the client device and the user activity;
sending, by the computer, the fix to the client device corresponding to the group of client devices; and
requesting, by the computer, feedback from a user of the client device regarding the fix and time to resolve the issue with the patch. 19. The computer program product of claim 18 further comprising:
ranking, by the computer, the fix based on the feedback and the time to resolve the issue with the patch. 20. The computer program product of claim 12 further comprising:
broadcasting, by the computer, the fix to other client devices that had the patch applied to the application. | Resolving software patch issues is provided. Recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices are compared. A set of common user activities are identified within the recorded activities performed by the users. A subset of highest ranking common user activities is selected from the set of common user activities. A fix for the issue with the patch is generated based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities. Corrective action based on the fix is taken to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices.1. A computer-implemented method for resolving software patch issues, the computer-implemented method comprising:
comparing, by a computer, recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices; identifying, by the computer, a set of common user activities within the recorded activities performed by the users; selecting, by the computer, a subset of highest ranking common user activities from the set of common user activities; generating, by the computer, a fix for the issue with the patch based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities; and taking, by the computer, corrective action based on the fix to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving, by the computer, an indication of the issue with the patch from a monitoring agent running on the client device based on user activity recorded by the monitoring agent corresponding to the application, wherein the issue caused a decrease in performance of the client device. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the indication of the issue with the patch was received within a defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication of the issue with the patch was received within the defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch, updating, by the computer, a status of a user of the client device to a distressed state. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 2 further comprising:
requesting, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and client device information from the monitoring agent;
receiving, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and the client device information from the monitoring agent; and
analyzing, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch using natural language processing, wherein the user activity is a user of the client device performing troubleshooting activities using the client device. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the user activity corresponds to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing; and
responsive to the computer determining that the user activity does correspond to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing, selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices that correspond to the client device based on the client device information and the user activity. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 2 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether an indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch has been resolved based on current user activity on the client device; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch was resolved based on the current user activity on the client device, updating, by the computer, a status of the user of the client device to a non-distressed state from a distressed state. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices based on the client device and the user activity;
sending, by the computer, the fix to the client device corresponding to the group of client devices; and
requesting, by the computer, feedback from a user of the client device regarding the fix and time to resolve the issue with the patch. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 further comprising:
ranking, by the computer, the fix based on the feedback and the time to resolve the issue with the patch. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
broadcasting, by the computer, the fix to other client devices that had the patch applied to the application. 10. A computer system for resolving software patch issues, the computer system comprising:
a bus system; a storage device connected to the bus system, wherein the storage device stores program instructions; and a processor connected to the bus system, wherein the processor executes the program instructions to: compare recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices; identify a set of common user activities within the recorded activities performed by the users; select a subset of highest ranking common user activities from the set of common user activities; generate a fix for the issue with the patch based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities; and take corrective action based on the fix to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices. 11. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the processor further executes the program instructions to: receive an indication of the issue with the patch from a monitoring agent running on the client device based on user activity recorded by the monitoring agent corresponding to the application, wherein the issue caused a decrease in performance of the client device. 12. A computer program product for resolving software patch issues, the computer program product comprising a computer readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith, the program instructions executable by a computer to cause the computer to perform a method comprising:
comparing, by the computer, recorded activities performed by users to resolve an issue with a patch applied to an application on a group of client devices; identifying, by the computer, a set of common user activities within the recorded activities performed by the users; selecting, by the computer, a subset of highest ranking common user activities from the set of common user activities; generating, by the computer, a fix for the issue with the patch based on the subset of highest ranking common user activities; and taking, by the computer, corrective action based on the fix to resolve the issue with the patch on a client device, the client device experiencing the issue resolved by users on the group of client devices. 13. The computer program product of claim 12 further comprising:
receiving, by the computer, an indication of the issue with the patch from a monitoring agent running on the client device based on user activity recorded by the monitoring agent corresponding to the application, wherein the issue caused a decrease in performance of the client device. 14. The computer program product of claim 13 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the indication of the issue with the patch was received within a defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication of the issue with the patch was received within the defined time period threshold corresponding to the patch, updating, by the computer, a status of a user of the client device to a distressed state. 15. The computer program product of claim 13 further comprising:
requesting, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and client device information from the monitoring agent;
receiving, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch and the client device information from the monitoring agent; and
analyzing, by the computer, the user activity corresponding to the indication of the issue with the patch using natural language processing, wherein the user activity is a user of the client device performing troubleshooting activities using the client device. 16. The computer program product of claim 15 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether the user activity corresponds to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing; and
responsive to the computer determining that the user activity does correspond to the issue with the patch based on the analyzing, selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices that correspond to the client device based on the client device information and the user activity. 17. The computer program product of claim 13 further comprising:
determining, by the computer, whether an indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch has been resolved based on current user activity on the client device; and
responsive to the computer determining that the indication was received from the monitoring agent on the client device indicating that the issue with the patch was resolved based on the current user activity on the client device, updating, by the computer, a status of the user of the client device to a non-distressed state from a distressed state. 18. The computer program product of claim 12 further comprising:
selecting, by the computer, the group of client devices based on the client device and the user activity;
sending, by the computer, the fix to the client device corresponding to the group of client devices; and
requesting, by the computer, feedback from a user of the client device regarding the fix and time to resolve the issue with the patch. 19. The computer program product of claim 18 further comprising:
ranking, by the computer, the fix based on the feedback and the time to resolve the issue with the patch. 20. The computer program product of claim 12 further comprising:
broadcasting, by the computer, the fix to other client devices that had the patch applied to the application. | 2,800 |
341,338 | 16,801,674 | 2,844 | A sintered magnet body (RaT1bMcBd) coated with a powder mixture of an intermetallic compound (R1iM1j, R1xT2yM1z, R1iM1jHk), alloy (M1dM2e) or metal (M1) powder and a rare earth (R2) oxide is diffusion treated. The R2 oxide is partially reduced during the diffusion treatment, so a significant amount of R2 can be introduced near interfaces of primary phase grains within the magnet through the passages in the form of grain boundaries. The coercive force is increased while minimizing a decline of remanence. | 1. A method for preparing a rare earth permanent magnet, comprising the steps of:
disposing a powder mixture on a surface of a sintered magnet body having the composition RaT1 bMcBd wherein R is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, T1 is one or both of Fe and Co, M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, B is boron, “a,” “b,” “c” and “d” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 12≤a≤20, 0≤c≤10, 4.0≤d≤7.0, the balance of b, and a+b+c+d=100, the powder mixture comprising an alloy powder having the composition M1 dM2, wherein M1 and M2 each are at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, M1 and M2 are different, “d” and “e” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 0.1≤e≤99.9, the balance of d, and d+e=100, containing at least 70% by volume of an intermetallic compound phase, and having an average particle size of up to 500 μm, and at least 10% by weight of an R2 oxide wherein R2 is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, having an average particle size of up to 100 μm, and heat treating the sintered magnet body having the powder mixture disposed on its surface at a temperature lower than or equal to the sintering temperature of the sintered magnet body in vacuum or in an inert gas, for causing the elements R2, M1 and M2 in the powder mixture to diffuse to grain boundaries in the interior of the sintered magnet body and/or near grain boundaries within the sintered magnet body primary phase grains. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the heat treating step includes heat treatment at a temperature from 200° C. to (Ts−10)° C. for 1 minute to 30 hours wherein Ts represents the sintering temperature of the sintered magnet body. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the disposing step includes dispersing the powder mixture in an organic solvent or water, immersing the sintered magnet body in the resulting slurry, taking up the sintered magnet body, and drying for thereby covering the surface of the sintered magnet body with the powder mixture. 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the sintered magnet body has a shape including a minimum portion with a dimension equal to or less than 20 mm. 5. A rare earth permanent magnet, which is prepared by disposing a powder mixture on a surface of a sintered magnet body having the composition RaT1 bMcBd wherein R is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, T1 is one or both of Fe and Co, M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, B is boron, “a,” “b,” “c” and “d” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 12≤a≤20, 0≤c≤10, 4.0≤d≤7.0, the balance of b, and a+b+c+d=100, the powder mixture comprising an alloy powder having the composition M1 dM2 e wherein M1 and M2 each are at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, M1 and M2 are different, “d” and “e” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 0.1≤e≤99.9, the balance of d, and d+e=100, containing at least 70% by volume of an intermetallic compound phase, and having an average particle size of up to 500 μm, and at least 10% by weight of an R2 oxide wherein R2 is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, having an average particle size of up to 100 μm, and heat treating the sintered magnet body having the powder mixture disposed on its surface at a temperature lower than or equal to the sintering temperature of the sintered magnet body in vacuum or in an inert gas, wherein
the elements R2, M1 and M2 in the powder mixture are diffused to grain boundaries in the interior of the sintered magnet body and/or near grain boundaries within the sintered magnet body primary phase grains so that the coercive force of the rare earth permanent magnet is increased over the original sintered magnet body. | A sintered magnet body (RaT1bMcBd) coated with a powder mixture of an intermetallic compound (R1iM1j, R1xT2yM1z, R1iM1jHk), alloy (M1dM2e) or metal (M1) powder and a rare earth (R2) oxide is diffusion treated. The R2 oxide is partially reduced during the diffusion treatment, so a significant amount of R2 can be introduced near interfaces of primary phase grains within the magnet through the passages in the form of grain boundaries. The coercive force is increased while minimizing a decline of remanence.1. A method for preparing a rare earth permanent magnet, comprising the steps of:
disposing a powder mixture on a surface of a sintered magnet body having the composition RaT1 bMcBd wherein R is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, T1 is one or both of Fe and Co, M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, B is boron, “a,” “b,” “c” and “d” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 12≤a≤20, 0≤c≤10, 4.0≤d≤7.0, the balance of b, and a+b+c+d=100, the powder mixture comprising an alloy powder having the composition M1 dM2, wherein M1 and M2 each are at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, M1 and M2 are different, “d” and “e” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 0.1≤e≤99.9, the balance of d, and d+e=100, containing at least 70% by volume of an intermetallic compound phase, and having an average particle size of up to 500 μm, and at least 10% by weight of an R2 oxide wherein R2 is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, having an average particle size of up to 100 μm, and heat treating the sintered magnet body having the powder mixture disposed on its surface at a temperature lower than or equal to the sintering temperature of the sintered magnet body in vacuum or in an inert gas, for causing the elements R2, M1 and M2 in the powder mixture to diffuse to grain boundaries in the interior of the sintered magnet body and/or near grain boundaries within the sintered magnet body primary phase grains. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the heat treating step includes heat treatment at a temperature from 200° C. to (Ts−10)° C. for 1 minute to 30 hours wherein Ts represents the sintering temperature of the sintered magnet body. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the disposing step includes dispersing the powder mixture in an organic solvent or water, immersing the sintered magnet body in the resulting slurry, taking up the sintered magnet body, and drying for thereby covering the surface of the sintered magnet body with the powder mixture. 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the sintered magnet body has a shape including a minimum portion with a dimension equal to or less than 20 mm. 5. A rare earth permanent magnet, which is prepared by disposing a powder mixture on a surface of a sintered magnet body having the composition RaT1 bMcBd wherein R is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, T1 is one or both of Fe and Co, M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, B is boron, “a,” “b,” “c” and “d” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 12≤a≤20, 0≤c≤10, 4.0≤d≤7.0, the balance of b, and a+b+c+d=100, the powder mixture comprising an alloy powder having the composition M1 dM2 e wherein M1 and M2 each are at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Si, C, P, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, and Bi, M1 and M2 are different, “d” and “e” indicative of atomic percent are in the range: 0.1≤e≤99.9, the balance of d, and d+e=100, containing at least 70% by volume of an intermetallic compound phase, and having an average particle size of up to 500 μm, and at least 10% by weight of an R2 oxide wherein R2 is at least one element selected from rare earth elements inclusive of Y and Sc, having an average particle size of up to 100 μm, and heat treating the sintered magnet body having the powder mixture disposed on its surface at a temperature lower than or equal to the sintering temperature of the sintered magnet body in vacuum or in an inert gas, wherein
the elements R2, M1 and M2 in the powder mixture are diffused to grain boundaries in the interior of the sintered magnet body and/or near grain boundaries within the sintered magnet body primary phase grains so that the coercive force of the rare earth permanent magnet is increased over the original sintered magnet body. | 2,800 |
341,339 | 16,801,677 | 1,767 | An adhesive for an EUV mask includes an epoxy resin composition in an amount of 50 wt % to 80 wt % based on a total weight of the adhesive, the epoxy resin composition including an epoxy resin, a hardener, a toughening agent, a filler, and a curing accelerator, and an inorganic filler in an amount of 20 wt % to 50 wt % based on the total weight of the adhesive, the inorganic filler including one or more of aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate. | 1. An adhesive for an EUV mask, the adhesive comprising:
an epoxy resin composition in an amount of 50 wt % to 80 wt % based on a total weight of the adhesive, the epoxy resin composition including an epoxy resin, a hardener, a toughening agent, a filler, and a curing accelerator; and an inorganic filler in an amount of 20 wt % to 50 wt % based on the total weight of the adhesive, the inorganic filler including one or more of aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate. 2. The adhesive as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inorganic filler further includes one or more of silica, alumina, barium sulfate, talc, clay, mica, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, boron nitride, aluminum borate, barium titanate, calcium titanate, magnesium titanate, bismuth titanate, titanium dioxide, barium zirconate, or calcium zirconate. 3. The adhesive as claimed in claim 2, wherein the inorganic filler has an average particle size of 0.1 μm to 10 μm. 4. The adhesive as claimed in claim 1, wherein the epoxy resin composition includes:
the epoxy resin in an amount of 15 wt % to 40 wt % based on a total weight of the epoxy resin composition, the hardener in an amount of 40 wt % to 70 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, the toughening agent in an amount of 7 wt % to 13 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, the filler in an amount of 3 wt % to 7 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, and the curing accelerator in an amount of 1 wt % to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition. 5. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the hardener includes one or more of an ether diamine, an aliphatic diamine, or an aromatic diamine. 6. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the epoxy resin includes one or more of a bisphenol A epoxy resin, a bisphenol F epoxy resin, or a novolac epoxy resin. 7. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the toughening agent includes a modified epoxy resin having a carboxyl group or an amine group as an end group. 8. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the filler in the epoxy resin composition includes one or more of amorphous silica, aluminum trihydrate, calcium carbonate, polystyrene beads, or polymethylmethacrylate beads. 9. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the curing accelerator includes one or more of a tertiary amine, a polyether amine, or imidazole. 10. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the epoxy resin composition has a thermosetting property. 11. A method of removing an adhesive for EUV mask including an epoxy resin composition and an inorganic filler, the method comprising:
swelling the adhesive on an EUV mask at a stud location by adding water to the adhesive to form a swollen adhesive, wherein swelling the adhesive includes an adsorption reaction in which the inorganic filler and the water are adsorbed to each other; and removing the swollen adhesive by adding a strong acid to the swollen adhesive, wherein removing the swollen adhesive includes an acid-base reaction between the inorganic filler and the strong acid. 12. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the water is deionized water. 13. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the strong acid is sulfuric acid. 14. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein adding the water and adding the strong acid are simultaneously performed. 15. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the adhesive includes:
the epoxy resin composition in an amount of 50 wt % to 80 wt % based on a total weight of the adhesive, and the inorganic filler in an amount of 20 wt % to 50 wt % based on the total weight of the adhesive. 16. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the inorganic filler includes one or more of silica, alumina, barium sulfate, talc, clay, mica, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, boron nitride, aluminum borate, barium titanate, calcium titanate, magnesium titanate, bismuth titanate, titanium dioxide, barium zirconate, and calcium zirconate. 17. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the inorganic filler has an average particle size of 0.1 μm to 10 μm. 18. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the epoxy resin composition includes:
an epoxy resin in an amount of 15 wt % to 40 wt % based on a total weight of the epoxy resin composition, a hardener in an amount of 40 wt % to 70 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, a toughening agent in an amount of 7 wt % to 13 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, a filler in an amount of 3 wt % to 7 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, and a curing accelerator in an amount of 1 wt % to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition. 19. A method of reusing an EUV mask, the method comprising:
i) applying an adhesive on an EUV mask; ii) attaching a stud on the adhesive for EUV mask; iii) combining an EUV pellicle on the stud; iv) separating the EUV pellicle from the stud; v) detaching the stud from the EUV mask; and vi) removing the adhesive from the EUV mask, wherein operations i) to vi) are repeatedly performed. 20. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein vi) includes:
swelling the adhesive by adding a water into the adhesive remaining on the EUV mask to form a swollen adhesive, and removing the swollen adhesive by adding a strong acid to the swollen adhesive. 21-26. (canceled) | An adhesive for an EUV mask includes an epoxy resin composition in an amount of 50 wt % to 80 wt % based on a total weight of the adhesive, the epoxy resin composition including an epoxy resin, a hardener, a toughening agent, a filler, and a curing accelerator, and an inorganic filler in an amount of 20 wt % to 50 wt % based on the total weight of the adhesive, the inorganic filler including one or more of aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate.1. An adhesive for an EUV mask, the adhesive comprising:
an epoxy resin composition in an amount of 50 wt % to 80 wt % based on a total weight of the adhesive, the epoxy resin composition including an epoxy resin, a hardener, a toughening agent, a filler, and a curing accelerator; and an inorganic filler in an amount of 20 wt % to 50 wt % based on the total weight of the adhesive, the inorganic filler including one or more of aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate. 2. The adhesive as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inorganic filler further includes one or more of silica, alumina, barium sulfate, talc, clay, mica, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, boron nitride, aluminum borate, barium titanate, calcium titanate, magnesium titanate, bismuth titanate, titanium dioxide, barium zirconate, or calcium zirconate. 3. The adhesive as claimed in claim 2, wherein the inorganic filler has an average particle size of 0.1 μm to 10 μm. 4. The adhesive as claimed in claim 1, wherein the epoxy resin composition includes:
the epoxy resin in an amount of 15 wt % to 40 wt % based on a total weight of the epoxy resin composition, the hardener in an amount of 40 wt % to 70 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, the toughening agent in an amount of 7 wt % to 13 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, the filler in an amount of 3 wt % to 7 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, and the curing accelerator in an amount of 1 wt % to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition. 5. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the hardener includes one or more of an ether diamine, an aliphatic diamine, or an aromatic diamine. 6. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the epoxy resin includes one or more of a bisphenol A epoxy resin, a bisphenol F epoxy resin, or a novolac epoxy resin. 7. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the toughening agent includes a modified epoxy resin having a carboxyl group or an amine group as an end group. 8. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the filler in the epoxy resin composition includes one or more of amorphous silica, aluminum trihydrate, calcium carbonate, polystyrene beads, or polymethylmethacrylate beads. 9. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the curing accelerator includes one or more of a tertiary amine, a polyether amine, or imidazole. 10. The adhesive as claimed in claim 4, wherein the epoxy resin composition has a thermosetting property. 11. A method of removing an adhesive for EUV mask including an epoxy resin composition and an inorganic filler, the method comprising:
swelling the adhesive on an EUV mask at a stud location by adding water to the adhesive to form a swollen adhesive, wherein swelling the adhesive includes an adsorption reaction in which the inorganic filler and the water are adsorbed to each other; and removing the swollen adhesive by adding a strong acid to the swollen adhesive, wherein removing the swollen adhesive includes an acid-base reaction between the inorganic filler and the strong acid. 12. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the water is deionized water. 13. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the strong acid is sulfuric acid. 14. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein adding the water and adding the strong acid are simultaneously performed. 15. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the adhesive includes:
the epoxy resin composition in an amount of 50 wt % to 80 wt % based on a total weight of the adhesive, and the inorganic filler in an amount of 20 wt % to 50 wt % based on the total weight of the adhesive. 16. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the inorganic filler includes one or more of silica, alumina, barium sulfate, talc, clay, mica, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, boron nitride, aluminum borate, barium titanate, calcium titanate, magnesium titanate, bismuth titanate, titanium dioxide, barium zirconate, and calcium zirconate. 17. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the inorganic filler has an average particle size of 0.1 μm to 10 μm. 18. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the epoxy resin composition includes:
an epoxy resin in an amount of 15 wt % to 40 wt % based on a total weight of the epoxy resin composition, a hardener in an amount of 40 wt % to 70 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, a toughening agent in an amount of 7 wt % to 13 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, a filler in an amount of 3 wt % to 7 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition, and a curing accelerator in an amount of 1 wt % to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the epoxy resin composition. 19. A method of reusing an EUV mask, the method comprising:
i) applying an adhesive on an EUV mask; ii) attaching a stud on the adhesive for EUV mask; iii) combining an EUV pellicle on the stud; iv) separating the EUV pellicle from the stud; v) detaching the stud from the EUV mask; and vi) removing the adhesive from the EUV mask, wherein operations i) to vi) are repeatedly performed. 20. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein vi) includes:
swelling the adhesive by adding a water into the adhesive remaining on the EUV mask to form a swollen adhesive, and removing the swollen adhesive by adding a strong acid to the swollen adhesive. 21-26. (canceled) | 1,700 |
341,340 | 16,801,675 | 1,767 | A machine tool includes a spindle configured to hold a tool, a tool magazine configured to hold a plurality of tools and to exchange the tools with the spindle, and a cleaning mechanism configured to remove adhering objects adhered to the tool magazine by spraying fluid to the tool magazine. | 1. A machine tool comprising:
a spindle configured to hold a tool; a tool magazine configured to hold a plurality of tools, and to exchange the tools with the spindle; and a cleaning mechanism configured to remove adhering objects adhered to the tool magazine by spraying fluid to the tool magazine. 2. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the tool magazine is placed at a front side relative to the spindle, the cleaning mechanism includes a nozzle placed above the tool magazine, the nozzle configured to spray the fluid to an upper portion of the tool magazine. 3. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
a timing of and a time length during which the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid are changeable. 4. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
a timing of and a time length during which the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid are set based on a processing program. 5. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
a time length during which the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid changes in proportion to a time length for machining a workpiece using the tool. 6. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid when the tool is exchanged between the spindle and the tool magazine. 7. The machine tool according to claim 1, further comprising:
an adhesion amount detecting unit configured to detect an amount of adhering objects adhered to the tool magazine, wherein the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid when the amount of adhering objects detected by the adhesion amount detecting unit exceeds a predetermined threshold value. 8. The machine tool according to claim 7, further comprising:
a learning unit configured to carry out learning in order to optimize a condition for spraying the fluid, based on a condition for spraying the fluid and the amount of adhering objects detected by the adhesion amount detecting unit after the fluid has been sprayed. 9. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the fluid is cutting fluid. 10. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the fluid is compressed air. | A machine tool includes a spindle configured to hold a tool, a tool magazine configured to hold a plurality of tools and to exchange the tools with the spindle, and a cleaning mechanism configured to remove adhering objects adhered to the tool magazine by spraying fluid to the tool magazine.1. A machine tool comprising:
a spindle configured to hold a tool; a tool magazine configured to hold a plurality of tools, and to exchange the tools with the spindle; and a cleaning mechanism configured to remove adhering objects adhered to the tool magazine by spraying fluid to the tool magazine. 2. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the tool magazine is placed at a front side relative to the spindle, the cleaning mechanism includes a nozzle placed above the tool magazine, the nozzle configured to spray the fluid to an upper portion of the tool magazine. 3. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
a timing of and a time length during which the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid are changeable. 4. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
a timing of and a time length during which the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid are set based on a processing program. 5. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
a time length during which the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid changes in proportion to a time length for machining a workpiece using the tool. 6. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid when the tool is exchanged between the spindle and the tool magazine. 7. The machine tool according to claim 1, further comprising:
an adhesion amount detecting unit configured to detect an amount of adhering objects adhered to the tool magazine, wherein the cleaning mechanism sprays the fluid when the amount of adhering objects detected by the adhesion amount detecting unit exceeds a predetermined threshold value. 8. The machine tool according to claim 7, further comprising:
a learning unit configured to carry out learning in order to optimize a condition for spraying the fluid, based on a condition for spraying the fluid and the amount of adhering objects detected by the adhesion amount detecting unit after the fluid has been sprayed. 9. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the fluid is cutting fluid. 10. The machine tool according to claim 1, wherein
the fluid is compressed air. | 1,700 |
341,341 | 16,801,653 | 1,767 | Described are a system, method, and computer program product for generating a synthetic control group. The method includes receiving transaction account data and transaction data associated with transactions completed by a first set of transaction accounts with a target merchant. The method also includes generating a synthetic control group including a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts. The method further includes determining, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score. The method further includes assigning an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group. The method further includes altering, based on the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving, with at least one processor, transaction account data of a plurality of transaction accounts in a first time period; receiving, with at least one processor via a transaction service provider system, transaction data associated with at least one transaction completed by a first set of transaction accounts of the plurality of transaction accounts with at least one target merchant in a second time period; generating, with at least one processor, a synthetic control group comprising a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts; determining, with at least one processor using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score representative of a likelihood of being associated with a test group; assigning, with at least one processor based at least partly on the propensity score of each transaction account and historic transaction data, an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group; and altering, with at least one processor based on the transaction data and the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed in a third time period. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein determining the propensity score for each transaction account of the synthetic control group is based on at least one of: amount transacted with merchant; amount transacted for merchant type; amount transacted for transaction type; amount transacted in first time period; amount transacted in second time period; or any combination thereof. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective propensity score of the transaction account. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, wherein the propensity score is further determined, with at least one processor using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the test group. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising determining, with at least one processor and using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group and the test group, a predictive spending score for the third time period. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective predictive spending score of the transaction account. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the at least one operational parameter of the computer-implemented advertisement program comprises at least one of: number of communications to be transmitted; time of communications to be transmitted; list of addresses of communications to be transmitted; or any combination thereof. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7, wherein an allocation of computing resources of the computer-implemented advertisement program is based at least partly on the at least one operational parameter. 9. A system comprising a server comprising at least one processor, the server being programmed and/or configured to:
receive transaction account data of a plurality of transaction accounts in a first time period; receive, via a transaction service provider system, transaction data associated with at least one transaction completed by a first set of transaction accounts of the plurality of transaction accounts with at least one target merchant in a second time period; generate a synthetic control group comprising a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts; determine, using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score representative of a likelihood of being associated with a test group; assign, based at least partly on the propensity score of each transaction account and historic transaction data, an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group; and alter, based on the transaction data and the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed in a third time period. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective propensity score of the transaction account. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the propensity score is further determined, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the test group. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to determine, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group and the test group, a predictive spending score for the third time period. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective predictive spending score of the transaction account. 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one operational parameter of the computer-implemented advertisement program comprises at least one of: number of communications to be transmitted; time of communications to be transmitted; list of addresses of communications to be transmitted; or any combination thereof; and wherein an allocation of computing resources of the computer-implemented advertisement program is based at least partly on the at least one operational parameter. 15. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
receive transaction account data of a plurality of transaction accounts in a first time period; receive, via a transaction service provider system, transaction data associated with at least one transaction completed by a first set of transaction accounts of the plurality of transaction accounts with at least one target merchant in a second time period; generate a synthetic control group comprising a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts; determine, using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score representative of a likelihood of being associated with a test group; assign, based at least partly on the propensity score of each transaction account and historic transaction data, an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group; and alter, based on the transaction data and the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed in a third time period. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective propensity score of the transaction account. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the propensity score is further determined, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the test group. 18. The computer program product of claim 17, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to determine, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group and the test group, a predictive spending score for the third time period. 19. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective predictive spending score of the transaction account. 20. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the at least one operational parameter of the computer-implemented advertisement program comprises at least one of: number of communications to be transmitted; time of communications to be transmitted; list of addresses of communications to be transmitted; or any combination thereof; and wherein an allocation of computing resources of the computer-implemented advertisement program is based at least partly on the at least one operational parameter. | Described are a system, method, and computer program product for generating a synthetic control group. The method includes receiving transaction account data and transaction data associated with transactions completed by a first set of transaction accounts with a target merchant. The method also includes generating a synthetic control group including a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts. The method further includes determining, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score. The method further includes assigning an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group. The method further includes altering, based on the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving, with at least one processor, transaction account data of a plurality of transaction accounts in a first time period; receiving, with at least one processor via a transaction service provider system, transaction data associated with at least one transaction completed by a first set of transaction accounts of the plurality of transaction accounts with at least one target merchant in a second time period; generating, with at least one processor, a synthetic control group comprising a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts; determining, with at least one processor using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score representative of a likelihood of being associated with a test group; assigning, with at least one processor based at least partly on the propensity score of each transaction account and historic transaction data, an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group; and altering, with at least one processor based on the transaction data and the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed in a third time period. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein determining the propensity score for each transaction account of the synthetic control group is based on at least one of: amount transacted with merchant; amount transacted for merchant type; amount transacted for transaction type; amount transacted in first time period; amount transacted in second time period; or any combination thereof. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective propensity score of the transaction account. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, wherein the propensity score is further determined, with at least one processor using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the test group. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising determining, with at least one processor and using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group and the test group, a predictive spending score for the third time period. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective predictive spending score of the transaction account. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the at least one operational parameter of the computer-implemented advertisement program comprises at least one of: number of communications to be transmitted; time of communications to be transmitted; list of addresses of communications to be transmitted; or any combination thereof. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7, wherein an allocation of computing resources of the computer-implemented advertisement program is based at least partly on the at least one operational parameter. 9. A system comprising a server comprising at least one processor, the server being programmed and/or configured to:
receive transaction account data of a plurality of transaction accounts in a first time period; receive, via a transaction service provider system, transaction data associated with at least one transaction completed by a first set of transaction accounts of the plurality of transaction accounts with at least one target merchant in a second time period; generate a synthetic control group comprising a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts; determine, using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score representative of a likelihood of being associated with a test group; assign, based at least partly on the propensity score of each transaction account and historic transaction data, an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group; and alter, based on the transaction data and the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed in a third time period. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective propensity score of the transaction account. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the propensity score is further determined, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the test group. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to determine, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group and the test group, a predictive spending score for the third time period. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective predictive spending score of the transaction account. 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one operational parameter of the computer-implemented advertisement program comprises at least one of: number of communications to be transmitted; time of communications to be transmitted; list of addresses of communications to be transmitted; or any combination thereof; and wherein an allocation of computing resources of the computer-implemented advertisement program is based at least partly on the at least one operational parameter. 15. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
receive transaction account data of a plurality of transaction accounts in a first time period; receive, via a transaction service provider system, transaction data associated with at least one transaction completed by a first set of transaction accounts of the plurality of transaction accounts with at least one target merchant in a second time period; generate a synthetic control group comprising a subset of transaction accounts sampled from the first set of transaction accounts; determine, using a machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group, a propensity score representative of a likelihood of being associated with a test group; assign, based at least partly on the propensity score of each transaction account and historic transaction data, an entropy balancing weight to each transaction account of the synthetic control group; and alter, based on the transaction data and the synthetic control group, at least one operational parameter of a computer-implemented advertisement program to be executed in a third time period. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective propensity score of the transaction account. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the propensity score is further determined, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the test group. 18. The computer program product of claim 17, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to determine, using the machine learning model, for each transaction account of the synthetic control group and the test group, a predictive spending score for the third time period. 19. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the entropy balancing weight assigned to each transaction account of the synthetic control group is further based on a respective predictive spending score of the transaction account. 20. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the at least one operational parameter of the computer-implemented advertisement program comprises at least one of: number of communications to be transmitted; time of communications to be transmitted; list of addresses of communications to be transmitted; or any combination thereof; and wherein an allocation of computing resources of the computer-implemented advertisement program is based at least partly on the at least one operational parameter. | 1,700 |
341,342 | 16,801,634 | 1,767 | A method and system generates a collision warning to a driver of a host vehicle. The system includes an on-board sensor of the host vehicle to detect presence of a preceding vehicle, wireless communication circuitry to establish wireless communication with a remote vehicle, and processing circuitry to detect existence of a slow remote vehicle ahead of the host vehicle, track an immediately preceding vehicle ahead of the host vehicle, confirm that the slow remote vehicle is affecting the host vehicle's lane speed of traffic by detecting that the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating. When it is determined that, that the remote vehicle is sow, display an information message indicating the existence of the slow remote vehicle, and output, when the remote vehicle is slow and the preceding vehicle is decelerating, the collision warning as an audio sound and a visual message. | 1. A method of generating a collision warning to a driver of a host vehicle, the method comprising:
detecting existence of a slow remote vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; tracking speed of an immediately preceding vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; confirming that the slow remote vehicle is affecting the host vehicle's lane speed of traffic by detecting that the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating displaying, when the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is being tracked, an information message indicating the existence of the slow remote vehicle; and outputting, when both the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating, the collision warning as an audio sound and a visual message. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
establishing wireless communication with a remote vehicle; determining, by the processing circuitry based on information received via the wireless communication, whether the remote vehicle is on a same road as the host vehicle; determining, by the processing circuitry based on the information, whether the remote vehicle is on an exit ramp; and determining, when it is determined that the remote vehicle is on the same road and not on an exit ramp, whether the remote vehicle is slow. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
determining, by the processing circuitry, whether track history of the remote vehicle is available; estimating, by the processing circuitry, the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle; and determining, by the processing circuitry, whether the path obtained based on the path history of the remote vehicle matches a predicted path of the host vehicle. 4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising:
determining by the processing circuitry, when the track history of the remote vehicle is not available, the geometry of the lane based on a map. 5. The method according to claim 3, further comprising:
determining a road type by performing, using the processing circuitry, scene identification, wherein the estimating the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the road type is determined to be highway road type. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the estimating, by the processing circuitry, the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the host vehicle is traveling greater than a predetermined speed. 7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
establishing wireless communication with a plurality of remote vehicles; and searching, by the processing circuitry, among the plurality of remote vehicles, for slow relative-speed remote vehicles within a predetermined azimuth and having a heading which differs at most by a maximum heading difference from the host vehicle's heading, and are within a maximum range. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the difference from the host vehicle's heading is determined, by the processing circuitry, by comparing the heading of the remote vehicle to a combination of heading values, including: the host vehicle's current heading, the host vehicle's predicted heading, the preceding vehicle's heading at its current position, and the preceding vehicle's predicted heading. 9. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
confirming, by the processing circuitry, that the remote vehicle is on the host vehicle-road based on a determination that the preceding vehicle is slowing down, and another remote vehicle exists with a heading that is parallel to the slow remote vehicle's path up to the remote vehicle current position. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the displaying, when the remote vehicle is slow, the information message indicating that the remote vehicle is slow every predetermined seconds. 11. A system for generating a collision warning to a driver of a host vehicle, the system comprising:
an on-board sensor of the host vehicle to track an immediately preceding vehicle; wireless communication circuitry to establish wireless communication with a remote vehicle; processing circuitry configured to detect existence of a slow remote vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; track speed of an immediately preceding vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; confirm that the slow remote vehicle is affecting the host vehicle's lane speed of traffic by detecting that the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating; display, when the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is being tracked, an information message indicating the existence of the slow remote vehicle; and output, when both the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating, the collision warning as an audio sound and a visual message. 12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
establish wireless communication with a remote vehicle; determine, by the processing circuitry based on information received via the wireless communication, whether the remote vehicle is on a same road as the host vehicle; determine, by the processing circuitry based on the information, whether the remote vehicle is on an exit ramp; and determine, when it is determined that the remote vehicle is on the same road and not on an exit ramp, whether the remote vehicle is slow. 13. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
determine whether track history of the remote vehicle is available; estimate the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle; and determine whether the path obtained based on the path history of the remote vehicle matches a predicted path of the host vehicle. 14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
determine when the track history of the remote vehicle is not available, the geometry of the lane based on a map. 15. The system according to claim 13, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
determine a road type by performing, using the processing circuitry, scene identification, wherein the estimating the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the road type is determined to be highway road type. 16. The system according to claim 11, wherein the estimating, by the processing circuitry, the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the host vehicle is traveling greater than a predetermined speed. 17. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
establish wireless communication with a plurality of remote vehicles; and search among the plurality of remote vehicles, for slow relative-speed remote vehicles within a predetermined azimuth and having a heading which differs at most by a maximum heading difference from the host vehicle's heading, and are within a maximum range. 18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to determine the difference from the host vehicle's heading by comparing the heading of the remote vehicle to a combination of heading values, including: the host vehicle's current heading, the host vehicle's predicted heading, the preceding vehicle's heading at its current position, and the preceding vehicle's predicted heading. 19. The system according to claim 17, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to confirm, that the remote vehicle is on the host vehicle-road based on a determination that the preceding vehicle is slowing down, and another remote vehicle exists with a heading that is parallel to the slow remote vehicle's path up to the remote vehicle current position. 20. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to display, when the remote vehicle is slow, the information message indicating that the remote vehicle is slow every predetermined seconds. | A method and system generates a collision warning to a driver of a host vehicle. The system includes an on-board sensor of the host vehicle to detect presence of a preceding vehicle, wireless communication circuitry to establish wireless communication with a remote vehicle, and processing circuitry to detect existence of a slow remote vehicle ahead of the host vehicle, track an immediately preceding vehicle ahead of the host vehicle, confirm that the slow remote vehicle is affecting the host vehicle's lane speed of traffic by detecting that the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating. When it is determined that, that the remote vehicle is sow, display an information message indicating the existence of the slow remote vehicle, and output, when the remote vehicle is slow and the preceding vehicle is decelerating, the collision warning as an audio sound and a visual message.1. A method of generating a collision warning to a driver of a host vehicle, the method comprising:
detecting existence of a slow remote vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; tracking speed of an immediately preceding vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; confirming that the slow remote vehicle is affecting the host vehicle's lane speed of traffic by detecting that the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating displaying, when the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is being tracked, an information message indicating the existence of the slow remote vehicle; and outputting, when both the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating, the collision warning as an audio sound and a visual message. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
establishing wireless communication with a remote vehicle; determining, by the processing circuitry based on information received via the wireless communication, whether the remote vehicle is on a same road as the host vehicle; determining, by the processing circuitry based on the information, whether the remote vehicle is on an exit ramp; and determining, when it is determined that the remote vehicle is on the same road and not on an exit ramp, whether the remote vehicle is slow. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
determining, by the processing circuitry, whether track history of the remote vehicle is available; estimating, by the processing circuitry, the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle; and determining, by the processing circuitry, whether the path obtained based on the path history of the remote vehicle matches a predicted path of the host vehicle. 4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising:
determining by the processing circuitry, when the track history of the remote vehicle is not available, the geometry of the lane based on a map. 5. The method according to claim 3, further comprising:
determining a road type by performing, using the processing circuitry, scene identification, wherein the estimating the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the road type is determined to be highway road type. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the estimating, by the processing circuitry, the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the host vehicle is traveling greater than a predetermined speed. 7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
establishing wireless communication with a plurality of remote vehicles; and searching, by the processing circuitry, among the plurality of remote vehicles, for slow relative-speed remote vehicles within a predetermined azimuth and having a heading which differs at most by a maximum heading difference from the host vehicle's heading, and are within a maximum range. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the difference from the host vehicle's heading is determined, by the processing circuitry, by comparing the heading of the remote vehicle to a combination of heading values, including: the host vehicle's current heading, the host vehicle's predicted heading, the preceding vehicle's heading at its current position, and the preceding vehicle's predicted heading. 9. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
confirming, by the processing circuitry, that the remote vehicle is on the host vehicle-road based on a determination that the preceding vehicle is slowing down, and another remote vehicle exists with a heading that is parallel to the slow remote vehicle's path up to the remote vehicle current position. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the displaying, when the remote vehicle is slow, the information message indicating that the remote vehicle is slow every predetermined seconds. 11. A system for generating a collision warning to a driver of a host vehicle, the system comprising:
an on-board sensor of the host vehicle to track an immediately preceding vehicle; wireless communication circuitry to establish wireless communication with a remote vehicle; processing circuitry configured to detect existence of a slow remote vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; track speed of an immediately preceding vehicle ahead of the host vehicle; confirm that the slow remote vehicle is affecting the host vehicle's lane speed of traffic by detecting that the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating; display, when the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is being tracked, an information message indicating the existence of the slow remote vehicle; and output, when both the slow remote vehicle is detected and the immediately preceding vehicle is decelerating, the collision warning as an audio sound and a visual message. 12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
establish wireless communication with a remote vehicle; determine, by the processing circuitry based on information received via the wireless communication, whether the remote vehicle is on a same road as the host vehicle; determine, by the processing circuitry based on the information, whether the remote vehicle is on an exit ramp; and determine, when it is determined that the remote vehicle is on the same road and not on an exit ramp, whether the remote vehicle is slow. 13. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
determine whether track history of the remote vehicle is available; estimate the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle; and determine whether the path obtained based on the path history of the remote vehicle matches a predicted path of the host vehicle. 14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
determine when the track history of the remote vehicle is not available, the geometry of the lane based on a map. 15. The system according to claim 13, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
determine a road type by performing, using the processing circuitry, scene identification, wherein the estimating the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the road type is determined to be highway road type. 16. The system according to claim 11, wherein the estimating, by the processing circuitry, the geometry of the lane based on the track history of the remote vehicle is performed when the host vehicle is traveling greater than a predetermined speed. 17. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to
establish wireless communication with a plurality of remote vehicles; and search among the plurality of remote vehicles, for slow relative-speed remote vehicles within a predetermined azimuth and having a heading which differs at most by a maximum heading difference from the host vehicle's heading, and are within a maximum range. 18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to determine the difference from the host vehicle's heading by comparing the heading of the remote vehicle to a combination of heading values, including: the host vehicle's current heading, the host vehicle's predicted heading, the preceding vehicle's heading at its current position, and the preceding vehicle's predicted heading. 19. The system according to claim 17, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to confirm, that the remote vehicle is on the host vehicle-road based on a determination that the preceding vehicle is slowing down, and another remote vehicle exists with a heading that is parallel to the slow remote vehicle's path up to the remote vehicle current position. 20. The system according to claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to display, when the remote vehicle is slow, the information message indicating that the remote vehicle is slow every predetermined seconds. | 1,700 |
341,343 | 16,801,663 | 1,767 | In Formula (1), M1 represents an iridium atom; n1 represents an integer of 1 or more, n2 represents an integer of 0 or more, n1+n2 is 2 or 3; E1 and E2 represent a carbon atom or a nitrogen atom; R1 ring represents a 5-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring and R2 ring represents an aromatic hydrocarbon ring; A1-G1-A2 represents an anionic bidentate ligand; A1 and A2 represent a nitrogen atom; and G1 represents a single bond. | 1.-19. (canceled) 20. A method for producing a composition for a light-emitting device comprising an anode, a cathode, and an organic layer provided between the anode and the cathode, the organic layer comprising a composition in which a compound represented by formula (H-1) and a phosphorescent compound are blended with each other, and the composition satisfying formulas (i) and (ii):
C 1 ×W 1≤3.5 (i)
C 1 ×W 1 +C 2 ×W 2≤3.5 (ii)
wherein: C1 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound; W1 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the phosphorescent compound relative to the total amount of solid content blended in the composition, C2 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1); and W2 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) relative to the total amount of solid contents blended in the composition; the method comprising: a step (a) of producing the compound represented by formula (H-1); a step (b) of producing the phosphorescent compound; and a step (c) of blending the compound represented by formula (H-1) produced in the step (a) and the phosphorescent compound produced in the step (b), wherein the step (a) comprises:
a step (a1) of preparing the compound represented by the formula (H-1) having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.89 mass ppm; and
a step (a2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to 0.89 mass ppm or less; and
the step (b) comprises:
a step (b1) of preparing the phosphorescent compound having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.9 mass ppm; and
a step (b2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound to 0.9 mass ppm or less by reducing with a hydride reducing agent or by reacting the phosphorus compound with a compound represented by the formula (Z1); 21. The method according to claim 20, wherein an initial deterioration of the light emitting device is suppressed by satisfying formulas (i) and (ii). 22. The method according to claim 20, wherein the organic layer is a light-emitting layer. 23. The method according to claim 20, wherein the step (a2) comprises at least one method of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. 24. The method according to claim 20, wherein the step (a2) comprises reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to below a detection limit when measured by an automatic combustion-ion chromatography method by at least one of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. 25. A method for producing a light-emitting device comprising an anode, a cathode, and an organic layer provided between the anode and the cathode, the organic layer comprising a composition in which a compound represented by formula (H-1) and a phosphorescent compound are blended with each other, and the composition satisfying formulas (i) and (ii):
C 1 ×W 1≤3.5 (i)
C 1 ×W 1 +C 2 ×W 2≤3.5 (ii)
wherein: C1 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound; W1 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the phosphorescent compound relative to the total amount of solid content blended in the composition, C2 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1); and W2 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) relative to the total amount of solid contents blended in the composition; the method comprising: a step (a) of producing the compound represented by formula (H-1); a step (b) of producing the phosphorescent compound; and a step (c) of forming the organic layer using a composition in which the compound represented by formula (H-1) produced in the step (a) and the phosphorescent compound produced in the step (b) are blended with each other, wherein the step (a) comprises:
a step (a1) of preparing the compound represented by the formula (H-1) having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.89 mass ppm; and
a step (a2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to 0.89 mass ppm or less; and
the step (b) comprises:
a step (b1) of preparing the phosphorescent compound having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.9 mass ppm; and
a step (b2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound to 0.9 mass ppm or less by reducing with a hydride reducing agent or by reacting the phosphorus compound with a compound represented by the formula (Z1); 26. The method according to claim 25, wherein an initial deterioration of the light emitting device is suppressed by satisfying formulas (i) and (ii). 27. The method according to claim 25, wherein the organic layer is a light-emitting layer. 28. The method according to claim 25, wherein the step (a2) comprises at least one of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. 29. The method according to claim 25, wherein the step (a2) comprises reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to below a detection limit when measured by an automatic combustion-ion chromatography method by at least of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. | In Formula (1), M1 represents an iridium atom; n1 represents an integer of 1 or more, n2 represents an integer of 0 or more, n1+n2 is 2 or 3; E1 and E2 represent a carbon atom or a nitrogen atom; R1 ring represents a 5-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring and R2 ring represents an aromatic hydrocarbon ring; A1-G1-A2 represents an anionic bidentate ligand; A1 and A2 represent a nitrogen atom; and G1 represents a single bond.1.-19. (canceled) 20. A method for producing a composition for a light-emitting device comprising an anode, a cathode, and an organic layer provided between the anode and the cathode, the organic layer comprising a composition in which a compound represented by formula (H-1) and a phosphorescent compound are blended with each other, and the composition satisfying formulas (i) and (ii):
C 1 ×W 1≤3.5 (i)
C 1 ×W 1 +C 2 ×W 2≤3.5 (ii)
wherein: C1 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound; W1 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the phosphorescent compound relative to the total amount of solid content blended in the composition, C2 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1); and W2 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) relative to the total amount of solid contents blended in the composition; the method comprising: a step (a) of producing the compound represented by formula (H-1); a step (b) of producing the phosphorescent compound; and a step (c) of blending the compound represented by formula (H-1) produced in the step (a) and the phosphorescent compound produced in the step (b), wherein the step (a) comprises:
a step (a1) of preparing the compound represented by the formula (H-1) having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.89 mass ppm; and
a step (a2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to 0.89 mass ppm or less; and
the step (b) comprises:
a step (b1) of preparing the phosphorescent compound having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.9 mass ppm; and
a step (b2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound to 0.9 mass ppm or less by reducing with a hydride reducing agent or by reacting the phosphorus compound with a compound represented by the formula (Z1); 21. The method according to claim 20, wherein an initial deterioration of the light emitting device is suppressed by satisfying formulas (i) and (ii). 22. The method according to claim 20, wherein the organic layer is a light-emitting layer. 23. The method according to claim 20, wherein the step (a2) comprises at least one method of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. 24. The method according to claim 20, wherein the step (a2) comprises reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to below a detection limit when measured by an automatic combustion-ion chromatography method by at least one of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. 25. A method for producing a light-emitting device comprising an anode, a cathode, and an organic layer provided between the anode and the cathode, the organic layer comprising a composition in which a compound represented by formula (H-1) and a phosphorescent compound are blended with each other, and the composition satisfying formulas (i) and (ii):
C 1 ×W 1≤3.5 (i)
C 1 ×W 1 +C 2 ×W 2≤3.5 (ii)
wherein: C1 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound; W1 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the phosphorescent compound relative to the total amount of solid content blended in the composition, C2 (mass ppm) is the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1); and W2 is the ratio (mass ratio) of the amount of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) relative to the total amount of solid contents blended in the composition; the method comprising: a step (a) of producing the compound represented by formula (H-1); a step (b) of producing the phosphorescent compound; and a step (c) of forming the organic layer using a composition in which the compound represented by formula (H-1) produced in the step (a) and the phosphorescent compound produced in the step (b) are blended with each other, wherein the step (a) comprises:
a step (a1) of preparing the compound represented by the formula (H-1) having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.89 mass ppm; and
a step (a2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to 0.89 mass ppm or less; and
the step (b) comprises:
a step (b1) of preparing the phosphorescent compound having a residual chlorine concentration of more than 0.9 mass ppm; and
a step (b2) of reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the phosphorescent compound to 0.9 mass ppm or less by reducing with a hydride reducing agent or by reacting the phosphorus compound with a compound represented by the formula (Z1); 26. The method according to claim 25, wherein an initial deterioration of the light emitting device is suppressed by satisfying formulas (i) and (ii). 27. The method according to claim 25, wherein the organic layer is a light-emitting layer. 28. The method according to claim 25, wherein the step (a2) comprises at least one of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. 29. The method according to claim 25, wherein the step (a2) comprises reducing the residual chlorine concentration of the compound represented by the formula (H-1) to below a detection limit when measured by an automatic combustion-ion chromatography method by at least of purification and treatment with a dehalogenating agent. | 1,700 |
341,344 | 16,801,654 | 1,767 | An information display device attachable to a structure includes a plate-like body, a display panel, and a surface member. The plate-like body is a part of the structure and has a first attaching surface, a second attaching surface opposite to the first attaching surface, and a side portion that connects the first attaching surface and the second attaching surface to each other. The display panel is attached to the plate-like body and displays information on the display surface. The display surface is disposed from the first attaching surface to the second attaching surface of the plate-like body. The surface member is disposed on the display surface side of the display panel to cover the display panel and is in a state where only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel is visible through the surface member when the display panel is turned on. | 1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a plate-like body that is a part of the structure and has a first attaching surface, a second attaching surface opposite to the first attaching surface, and a side portion that connects the first attaching surface and the second attaching surface to each other; a display panel which is attached to the plate-like body and displays information on a display surface, and in which the display surface is disposed from the first attaching surface to the second attaching surface of the plate-like body; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel to cover the display panel and through which only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible when the display panel is turned on. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display surface of the display panel has a first display surface and a second display surface opposite to the first display surface with a curved portion interposed therebetween, the first display surface covers the first attaching surface, the second display surface covers the second attaching surface, and the curved portion covers the side portion. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first attaching surface, the second attaching surface, and the side portion of the plate-like body are formed at positions depressed from other parts of the structure, and wherein the display panel has a thickness such that the display surface is flush with an outer surface of the other parts of the structure or protrudes from the outer surface of the other parts of the structure. 4. The information display device of claim 3, further comprising:
a transparent or translucent member disposed between the display panel and the surface member to cover the display surface, wherein the transparent or translucent member is disposed to be flush with or protrude from the outer surface of the other parts of the structure. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the structure is a wall, a door of a container, or a seat disposed in a moving object, and the information display device is disposed at a position visible from a passenger or a crew of the moving object. 6. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the surface member has a surface area larger than the display panel. 7. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first display surface and the second display surface of the display panel can display different information. | An information display device attachable to a structure includes a plate-like body, a display panel, and a surface member. The plate-like body is a part of the structure and has a first attaching surface, a second attaching surface opposite to the first attaching surface, and a side portion that connects the first attaching surface and the second attaching surface to each other. The display panel is attached to the plate-like body and displays information on the display surface. The display surface is disposed from the first attaching surface to the second attaching surface of the plate-like body. The surface member is disposed on the display surface side of the display panel to cover the display panel and is in a state where only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel is visible through the surface member when the display panel is turned on.1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a plate-like body that is a part of the structure and has a first attaching surface, a second attaching surface opposite to the first attaching surface, and a side portion that connects the first attaching surface and the second attaching surface to each other; a display panel which is attached to the plate-like body and displays information on a display surface, and in which the display surface is disposed from the first attaching surface to the second attaching surface of the plate-like body; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel to cover the display panel and through which only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible when the display panel is turned on. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display surface of the display panel has a first display surface and a second display surface opposite to the first display surface with a curved portion interposed therebetween, the first display surface covers the first attaching surface, the second display surface covers the second attaching surface, and the curved portion covers the side portion. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first attaching surface, the second attaching surface, and the side portion of the plate-like body are formed at positions depressed from other parts of the structure, and wherein the display panel has a thickness such that the display surface is flush with an outer surface of the other parts of the structure or protrudes from the outer surface of the other parts of the structure. 4. The information display device of claim 3, further comprising:
a transparent or translucent member disposed between the display panel and the surface member to cover the display surface, wherein the transparent or translucent member is disposed to be flush with or protrude from the outer surface of the other parts of the structure. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the structure is a wall, a door of a container, or a seat disposed in a moving object, and the information display device is disposed at a position visible from a passenger or a crew of the moving object. 6. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the surface member has a surface area larger than the display panel. 7. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first display surface and the second display surface of the display panel can display different information. | 1,700 |
341,345 | 16,801,685 | 1,767 | The present application discloses a semiconductor device and a method for fabricating the semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes a substrate including an array area and a peripheral area adjacent to the array area, a first gate structure positioned in the array area, and a second gate structure positioned in the peripheral area. A width of the first gate structure is less than a width of the second gate structure, and a depth of the first gate structure is less than a depth of the second gate structure. | 1. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a substrate comprising an array area and a peripheral area adjacent to the array area; a first gate structure positioned in the array area; and a second gate structure positioned in the peripheral area; wherein a width of the first gate structure is less than a width of the second gate structure, and a depth of the first gate structure is less than a depth of the second gate structure; wherein the first gate structure comprises a first gate insulating layer inwardly positioned in the array area, a first gate conductive layer positioned on the first gate insulating layer, and a first bottom capping layer positioned on the first gate conductive layer, wherein a top surface of the first bottom capping layer is at a same vertical level as a top surface of the substrate. 2. (canceled) 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein a top surface of the first gate conductive layer is at a vertical level higher than a vertical level of top surfaces of the first gate insulating layer. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of first doped regions positioned adjacent to two sides of the first gate structure, wherein bottom surfaces of the first doped regions are at a same vertical level as the top surface of the first gate conductive layer. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 4, further comprising a first gate liner positioned between the first gate insulating layer and the first gate conductive layer. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 5, wherein top surfaces of the first gate liner are at a vertical level lower than the vertical level of the top surface of the first gate conductive layer. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 6, further comprising a second gate structure comprising a second gate insulating layer inwardly positioned in the peripheral area, a second gate conductive layer positioned on the second gate insulating layer, and a second bottom capping layer positioned on the second gate conductive layer, wherein a top surface of the second bottom capping layer is at a same vertical level as the top surface of the substrate, and a top surface of the second gate conductive layer is at a vertical level lower than the vertical level of the top surface of the first gate conductive layer. 8. The semiconductor device of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of second doped regions positioned adjacent to two sides of the second gate structure, wherein bottom surfaces of the second doped regions are at a same vertical level as the top surface of the second gate conductive layer. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising a first top capping layer positioned on the first bottom capping layer. 10. The semiconductor device of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of third doped regions positioned adjacent to two sides of the first top capping layer and on the plurality of first doped regions. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 10, further comprising a plurality of first isolation structures positioned in the array area and a plurality of second isolation structures positioned in the peripheral area, wherein the first gate structure is positioned between an adjacent pair of the plurality of first isolation structures and the second gate structure is positioned between an adjacent pair of the plurality of second isolation structures. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 11, wherein a depth of the plurality of second isolation structures is greater than a depth of the plurality of first isolation structures. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 12, wherein a porosity of the first top capping layer is between about 10% and about 30%. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 12, wherein the first gate insulating layer has a thickness between about 13 angstroms and about 20 angstroms. 15. The semiconductor device of claim 12, wherein the first gate liner has a thickness between about 10 angstroms and about 15 angstroms. 16. A method for fabricating a semiconductor device, comprising:
providing a substrate comprising an array area and a peripheral area adjacent to the array area; forming a first gate structure in the array area; and forming a second gate structure in the peripheral area and having a width greater than a width of the first gate structure and a depth greater than a depth of the first gate structure; wherein the first gate structure comprises a first gate insulating layer inwardly positioned in the array area, a first gate conductive layer positioned on the first gate insulating layer, and a first bottom capping layer positioned on the first gate conductive layer, wherein a top surface of the first bottom capping layer is at a same vertical level as a top surface of the substrate. 17. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 16, wherein the first gate structure and the second gate structure are concurrently formed. 18. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 17, further comprising:
forming a plurality of first doped regions adjacent to two sides of the first gate structure and in the array area; and forming a plurality of second doped regions adjacent to two sides of the second gate structure and in the peripheral area. 19. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 18, further comprising:
forming a plurality of third doped regions on the plurality of first doped regions; and forming a plurality of fourth doped regions on the plurality of second doped regions. 20. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 19, wherein the plurality of first doped regions and the plurality of third doped regions have different electrical types. | The present application discloses a semiconductor device and a method for fabricating the semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes a substrate including an array area and a peripheral area adjacent to the array area, a first gate structure positioned in the array area, and a second gate structure positioned in the peripheral area. A width of the first gate structure is less than a width of the second gate structure, and a depth of the first gate structure is less than a depth of the second gate structure.1. A semiconductor device, comprising:
a substrate comprising an array area and a peripheral area adjacent to the array area; a first gate structure positioned in the array area; and a second gate structure positioned in the peripheral area; wherein a width of the first gate structure is less than a width of the second gate structure, and a depth of the first gate structure is less than a depth of the second gate structure; wherein the first gate structure comprises a first gate insulating layer inwardly positioned in the array area, a first gate conductive layer positioned on the first gate insulating layer, and a first bottom capping layer positioned on the first gate conductive layer, wherein a top surface of the first bottom capping layer is at a same vertical level as a top surface of the substrate. 2. (canceled) 3. The semiconductor device of claim 1, wherein a top surface of the first gate conductive layer is at a vertical level higher than a vertical level of top surfaces of the first gate insulating layer. 4. The semiconductor device of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of first doped regions positioned adjacent to two sides of the first gate structure, wherein bottom surfaces of the first doped regions are at a same vertical level as the top surface of the first gate conductive layer. 5. The semiconductor device of claim 4, further comprising a first gate liner positioned between the first gate insulating layer and the first gate conductive layer. 6. The semiconductor device of claim 5, wherein top surfaces of the first gate liner are at a vertical level lower than the vertical level of the top surface of the first gate conductive layer. 7. The semiconductor device of claim 6, further comprising a second gate structure comprising a second gate insulating layer inwardly positioned in the peripheral area, a second gate conductive layer positioned on the second gate insulating layer, and a second bottom capping layer positioned on the second gate conductive layer, wherein a top surface of the second bottom capping layer is at a same vertical level as the top surface of the substrate, and a top surface of the second gate conductive layer is at a vertical level lower than the vertical level of the top surface of the first gate conductive layer. 8. The semiconductor device of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of second doped regions positioned adjacent to two sides of the second gate structure, wherein bottom surfaces of the second doped regions are at a same vertical level as the top surface of the second gate conductive layer. 9. The semiconductor device of claim 8, further comprising a first top capping layer positioned on the first bottom capping layer. 10. The semiconductor device of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of third doped regions positioned adjacent to two sides of the first top capping layer and on the plurality of first doped regions. 11. The semiconductor device of claim 10, further comprising a plurality of first isolation structures positioned in the array area and a plurality of second isolation structures positioned in the peripheral area, wherein the first gate structure is positioned between an adjacent pair of the plurality of first isolation structures and the second gate structure is positioned between an adjacent pair of the plurality of second isolation structures. 12. The semiconductor device of claim 11, wherein a depth of the plurality of second isolation structures is greater than a depth of the plurality of first isolation structures. 13. The semiconductor device of claim 12, wherein a porosity of the first top capping layer is between about 10% and about 30%. 14. The semiconductor device of claim 12, wherein the first gate insulating layer has a thickness between about 13 angstroms and about 20 angstroms. 15. The semiconductor device of claim 12, wherein the first gate liner has a thickness between about 10 angstroms and about 15 angstroms. 16. A method for fabricating a semiconductor device, comprising:
providing a substrate comprising an array area and a peripheral area adjacent to the array area; forming a first gate structure in the array area; and forming a second gate structure in the peripheral area and having a width greater than a width of the first gate structure and a depth greater than a depth of the first gate structure; wherein the first gate structure comprises a first gate insulating layer inwardly positioned in the array area, a first gate conductive layer positioned on the first gate insulating layer, and a first bottom capping layer positioned on the first gate conductive layer, wherein a top surface of the first bottom capping layer is at a same vertical level as a top surface of the substrate. 17. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 16, wherein the first gate structure and the second gate structure are concurrently formed. 18. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 17, further comprising:
forming a plurality of first doped regions adjacent to two sides of the first gate structure and in the array area; and forming a plurality of second doped regions adjacent to two sides of the second gate structure and in the peripheral area. 19. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 18, further comprising:
forming a plurality of third doped regions on the plurality of first doped regions; and forming a plurality of fourth doped regions on the plurality of second doped regions. 20. The method for fabricating the semiconductor device of claim 19, wherein the plurality of first doped regions and the plurality of third doped regions have different electrical types. | 1,700 |
341,346 | 16,801,648 | 1,767 | Provided are aromatic oligoamide foldamers and self-assembled compositions of the same. The aromatic oligoamide foldamers and compositions can form tube-like structures that can form pores in membranes. The pores can be used to transport ions and molecules, such as, for example, cryoprotective agents or therapeutic agents, through the membrane. The tube-like structures exhibit desirable stability at low temperatures. | 1. A compound having the following structure: 2. (canceled) 3. The compound of claim 1, wherein R and R′ are independently at each occurrence 4. The compound of claim 1, wherein the backbone of the compound folds such that a helix extending longitudinally in the direction of a longitudinal axis is formed, wherein the helix has a left-handed or right-handed orientation. 5. The compound of claim 4, wherein the helix has about 6.5 residues per turn and/or the helix has a pitch of about 3.6 Å per turn. 6. (canceled) 7. The compound of claim 4, wherein the helix has an interior and an exterior and the interior is a hollow tubular cavity that is parallel to the longitudinal axis. 8. (canceled) 9. The compound of claim 7, wherein the interior has an inner diameter of 7 to 15 Å. 10. The compound of claim 1, wherein the compound has a length along the longitudinal axis of 3.5 to 100 Å. 11. (canceled) 12. A helical composition comprising an assembly of the same compounds of claim 1 or a mixture of different compounds of claim 1, wherein each of the same compounds or the mixture of different compounds is disposed on an adjacent compound to form a cylindrical structure, such that a longitudinal axis of each compound is coaxially aligned, wherein the cylindrical structure has an exterior and an interior. 13. The helical composition of claim 12, wherein the interior is a continuously hollow tubular cavity. 14. The helical composition of claim 12, wherein the helical composition has a length along the longitudinal axis of 3.5 to 100 Å. 15. A method of using a compound of claim 1 or a mixture of the compounds of claim 1, comprising contacting the compound of claim 1 or a mixture of compounds of claim 1 with a vesicle having a membrane, wherein the compound or a mixture of compounds of claim 1 forms a pore in the membrane. 16. (canceled) 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising transporting a molecule of interest through the pore. 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the contacting comprises administering the compound(s) to an individual in need of treatment. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises administering a molecule of interest to the individual in need of treatment. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the molecule of interest is a hydrophilic compound and/or a hydrophilic species. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the hydrophilic compound and/or the hydrophilic species is a carbohydrate, a polyhydric alcohol, or a combinations thereof. 22. (canceled) 23. The method of claim 20, wherein the hydrophilic compound and/or the hydrophilic species is/are chosen from a proton, an ion, a dye, a peptide, a CPA, a drug, an adjuvant, a hydrophilic sequestration agent of metal ions, and combinations thereof. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the CPA is an antifreeze peptide, a non-natural antifreeze oligomer, or a combination thereof. 25. The method of claim 15, wherein the method is performed in vivo, in vitro, or ex vivo. 26. A composition comprising at least one compound that forms a continuously hollow tube-like structures for forming pores in membranes, wherein said pores are stable at low temperatures but are disrupted at elevated temperatures due to thermal motion. 27. The composition of claim 26, wherein the pores are stable at a temperature of 1 to 37° C. 28. The composition of claim 26, further comprising a plurality of compounds that are the same or different. 29. The composition of claim 28, wherein a plurality of compounds self-assembles into a supramolecular structure, wherein each compound is disposed on an adjacent compound to form a cylindrical structure, such that a longitudinal axis of each compound is coaxially aligned, wherein the cylindrical structure has an exterior and an interior. 30. The composition of claim 26, wherein the at least one compound is a helix extending longitudinally in the direction of a longitudinal axis. 31. (canceled) 32. The composition of claim 30, wherein the helix has about 6.5 residues per turn and/or the helix has a pitch of about 3.6 Å per turn. 33. (canceled) 34. The composition of claim 30, wherein the composition has a length along the longitudinal axis of 3.5 to 100 Å. 35. The composition of claim 30, wherein the tube-like structure has an interior and an exterior and the interior is a hollow tubular cavity that is parallel to the longitudinal axis. 36. (canceled) 37. (canceled) 38. The composition of claim 35, wherein the interior has an inner diameter of 7 to 15 Å. 39. The composition of claim 35, wherein the exterior of the helix has one or more hydrogen bond. 40. The compound of claim 1, wherein R and R′ are independently at each occurrence | Provided are aromatic oligoamide foldamers and self-assembled compositions of the same. The aromatic oligoamide foldamers and compositions can form tube-like structures that can form pores in membranes. The pores can be used to transport ions and molecules, such as, for example, cryoprotective agents or therapeutic agents, through the membrane. The tube-like structures exhibit desirable stability at low temperatures.1. A compound having the following structure: 2. (canceled) 3. The compound of claim 1, wherein R and R′ are independently at each occurrence 4. The compound of claim 1, wherein the backbone of the compound folds such that a helix extending longitudinally in the direction of a longitudinal axis is formed, wherein the helix has a left-handed or right-handed orientation. 5. The compound of claim 4, wherein the helix has about 6.5 residues per turn and/or the helix has a pitch of about 3.6 Å per turn. 6. (canceled) 7. The compound of claim 4, wherein the helix has an interior and an exterior and the interior is a hollow tubular cavity that is parallel to the longitudinal axis. 8. (canceled) 9. The compound of claim 7, wherein the interior has an inner diameter of 7 to 15 Å. 10. The compound of claim 1, wherein the compound has a length along the longitudinal axis of 3.5 to 100 Å. 11. (canceled) 12. A helical composition comprising an assembly of the same compounds of claim 1 or a mixture of different compounds of claim 1, wherein each of the same compounds or the mixture of different compounds is disposed on an adjacent compound to form a cylindrical structure, such that a longitudinal axis of each compound is coaxially aligned, wherein the cylindrical structure has an exterior and an interior. 13. The helical composition of claim 12, wherein the interior is a continuously hollow tubular cavity. 14. The helical composition of claim 12, wherein the helical composition has a length along the longitudinal axis of 3.5 to 100 Å. 15. A method of using a compound of claim 1 or a mixture of the compounds of claim 1, comprising contacting the compound of claim 1 or a mixture of compounds of claim 1 with a vesicle having a membrane, wherein the compound or a mixture of compounds of claim 1 forms a pore in the membrane. 16. (canceled) 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising transporting a molecule of interest through the pore. 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the contacting comprises administering the compound(s) to an individual in need of treatment. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises administering a molecule of interest to the individual in need of treatment. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the molecule of interest is a hydrophilic compound and/or a hydrophilic species. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the hydrophilic compound and/or the hydrophilic species is a carbohydrate, a polyhydric alcohol, or a combinations thereof. 22. (canceled) 23. The method of claim 20, wherein the hydrophilic compound and/or the hydrophilic species is/are chosen from a proton, an ion, a dye, a peptide, a CPA, a drug, an adjuvant, a hydrophilic sequestration agent of metal ions, and combinations thereof. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the CPA is an antifreeze peptide, a non-natural antifreeze oligomer, or a combination thereof. 25. The method of claim 15, wherein the method is performed in vivo, in vitro, or ex vivo. 26. A composition comprising at least one compound that forms a continuously hollow tube-like structures for forming pores in membranes, wherein said pores are stable at low temperatures but are disrupted at elevated temperatures due to thermal motion. 27. The composition of claim 26, wherein the pores are stable at a temperature of 1 to 37° C. 28. The composition of claim 26, further comprising a plurality of compounds that are the same or different. 29. The composition of claim 28, wherein a plurality of compounds self-assembles into a supramolecular structure, wherein each compound is disposed on an adjacent compound to form a cylindrical structure, such that a longitudinal axis of each compound is coaxially aligned, wherein the cylindrical structure has an exterior and an interior. 30. The composition of claim 26, wherein the at least one compound is a helix extending longitudinally in the direction of a longitudinal axis. 31. (canceled) 32. The composition of claim 30, wherein the helix has about 6.5 residues per turn and/or the helix has a pitch of about 3.6 Å per turn. 33. (canceled) 34. The composition of claim 30, wherein the composition has a length along the longitudinal axis of 3.5 to 100 Å. 35. The composition of claim 30, wherein the tube-like structure has an interior and an exterior and the interior is a hollow tubular cavity that is parallel to the longitudinal axis. 36. (canceled) 37. (canceled) 38. The composition of claim 35, wherein the interior has an inner diameter of 7 to 15 Å. 39. The composition of claim 35, wherein the exterior of the helix has one or more hydrogen bond. 40. The compound of claim 1, wherein R and R′ are independently at each occurrence | 1,700 |
341,347 | 16,801,681 | 2,496 | A system and method for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy. The method includes: determining at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. | 1. A method for detecting medical device exploitable vulnerabilities, comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes use of an unencrypted communications protocol, wherein the behavior of the medical device includes a connection to the Internet, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes connecting to the Internet while using the unencrypted communications protocol. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the at least one mitigation action includes disconnecting the medical device from the Internet. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical device is any of a medical imaging device, a diagnostic device, life support equipment, a pump, a defibrillator, and a pacemaker. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes at least one of: a point of connection, a behavior, and a configuration parameter. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes a point of connection, wherein the point of connection is any of: a port, a router, a network, and a switch. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
querying a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the medical device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
sequentially applying a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determining one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. 10. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions for causing a processing circuitry to execute a process, the process comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 11. A system for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy, comprising:
a processing circuitry; and a memory, the memory containing instructions that, when executed by the processing circuitry, configure the system to: determine at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyze behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and perform at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes use of an unencrypted communications protocol, wherein the behavior of the medical device includes a connection to the Internet, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes connecting to the Internet while using the unencrypted communications protocol. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one mitigation action includes disconnecting the medical device from the Internet. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the medical device is any of a medical imaging device, a diagnostic device, life support equipment, a pump, a defibrillator, and a pacemaker. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes at least one of: a point of connection, a behavior, and a configuration parameter. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes a point of connection, wherein the point of connection is any of: a port, a router, a network, and a switch. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
query a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the medical device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
sequentially apply a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determining one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. | A system and method for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy. The method includes: determining at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability.1. A method for detecting medical device exploitable vulnerabilities, comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes use of an unencrypted communications protocol, wherein the behavior of the medical device includes a connection to the Internet, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes connecting to the Internet while using the unencrypted communications protocol. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the at least one mitigation action includes disconnecting the medical device from the Internet. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the medical device is any of a medical imaging device, a diagnostic device, life support equipment, a pump, a defibrillator, and a pacemaker. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes at least one of: a point of connection, a behavior, and a configuration parameter. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes a point of connection, wherein the point of connection is any of: a port, a router, a network, and a switch. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
querying a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the medical device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
sequentially applying a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determining one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. 10. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions for causing a processing circuitry to execute a process, the process comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 11. A system for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy, comprising:
a processing circuitry; and a memory, the memory containing instructions that, when executed by the processing circuitry, configure the system to: determine at least one exploitation condition for a medical device based on at least one first device attribute of the medical device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyze behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the medical device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the medical device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and perform at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes use of an unencrypted communications protocol, wherein the behavior of the medical device includes a connection to the Internet, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes connecting to the Internet while using the unencrypted communications protocol. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one mitigation action includes disconnecting the medical device from the Internet. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the medical device is any of a medical imaging device, a diagnostic device, life support equipment, a pump, a defibrillator, and a pacemaker. 15. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes at least one of: a point of connection, a behavior, and a configuration parameter. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the at least one exploitation condition includes a point of connection, wherein the point of connection is any of: a port, a router, a network, and a switch. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
query a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the medical device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
sequentially apply a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determining one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. | 2,400 |
341,348 | 16,801,691 | 2,496 | The present invention relates to an optical component and a transparent sealing member. An optical component has: at least one optical element; and a package that houses therein the optical element. The package has: a mounting board on which the optical element is mounted; a transparent sealing member bonded on the mounting board; a recessed section surrounding the optical element mounted on the mounting board; and a refractive index matching agent applied to the inside of the recessed section. The package has at least one groove in communication with the outside from the recessed section. | 1. An optical component, comprising:
at least one optical element; and a package in which the optical element is accommodated; the package comprising: a mounting substrate on which the optical element is mounted; a transparent sealing member bonded on the mounting substrate; a concave portion surrounding the optical element that is mounted on the mounting substrate; and a refractive index matching agent filled inside the concave portion, wherein the package includes at least one groove configured to communicate with an exterior from the concave portion. 2. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein the groove is formed in a portion within the transparent sealing member, the portion being bonded to the mounting substrate. 3. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein the groove is formed in at least a portion within the mounting substrate, the portion being bonded to the transparent sealing member. 4. The optical component according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of the grooves, wherein
the plurality of grooves are formed radially. 5. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein a step configured to communicate with the concave portion is formed around a periphery of the concave portion, within a portion where the transparent sealing member and the mounting substrate are bonded to each other. 6. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein, assuming that a projected area of a portion where the transparent sealing member and the mounting substrate are bonded to each other with respect to a bottom surface of the optical component is represented by A, and a projected area of the groove with respect to the bottom surface of the optical component is represented by B, then (B/A)×100 is greater than or equal to 5% and less than or equal to 30%. 7. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein a height of the groove is smaller than a thickness of the optical element. 8. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein the transparent sealing member is made of quartz glass or optical glass, and the refractive index matching agent is a silicone resin or a fluorine resin. 9. A transparent sealing member used in an optical component comprising at least one optical element, a mounting substrate on which the optical element is mounted, and a concave portion surrounding the optical element that is mounted on the mounting substrate, the transparent sealing member constituting a package in which the optical element is accommodated together with the mounting substrate,
wherein the transparent sealing member: is bonded to the mounting substrate in a state with a refractive index matching agent being filled in the concave portion; and includes, in a portion that is bonded to the mounting substrate, at least one groove configured to communicate with an exterior from the concave portion. 10. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, comprising a plurality of the grooves, wherein
the plurality of grooves are formed radially. 11. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein a step configured to communicate with the concave portion is formed around a periphery of the concave portion, within a portion where the transparent sealing member is bonded to the mounting substrate. 12. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein, assuming that a projected area of a portion where the transparent sealing member is bonded to the mounting substrate with respect to a bottom surface of the optical component is represented by A, and a projected area of the groove with respect to the bottom surface of the optical component is represented by B, then (B/A)×100 is greater than or equal to 5% and less than or equal to 30%. 13. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein a height of the groove is smaller than a thickness of the optical element. 14. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein the transparent sealing member is made of quartz glass or optical glass, and the refractive index matching agent is a silicone resin or a fluorine resin. | The present invention relates to an optical component and a transparent sealing member. An optical component has: at least one optical element; and a package that houses therein the optical element. The package has: a mounting board on which the optical element is mounted; a transparent sealing member bonded on the mounting board; a recessed section surrounding the optical element mounted on the mounting board; and a refractive index matching agent applied to the inside of the recessed section. The package has at least one groove in communication with the outside from the recessed section.1. An optical component, comprising:
at least one optical element; and a package in which the optical element is accommodated; the package comprising: a mounting substrate on which the optical element is mounted; a transparent sealing member bonded on the mounting substrate; a concave portion surrounding the optical element that is mounted on the mounting substrate; and a refractive index matching agent filled inside the concave portion, wherein the package includes at least one groove configured to communicate with an exterior from the concave portion. 2. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein the groove is formed in a portion within the transparent sealing member, the portion being bonded to the mounting substrate. 3. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein the groove is formed in at least a portion within the mounting substrate, the portion being bonded to the transparent sealing member. 4. The optical component according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of the grooves, wherein
the plurality of grooves are formed radially. 5. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein a step configured to communicate with the concave portion is formed around a periphery of the concave portion, within a portion where the transparent sealing member and the mounting substrate are bonded to each other. 6. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein, assuming that a projected area of a portion where the transparent sealing member and the mounting substrate are bonded to each other with respect to a bottom surface of the optical component is represented by A, and a projected area of the groove with respect to the bottom surface of the optical component is represented by B, then (B/A)×100 is greater than or equal to 5% and less than or equal to 30%. 7. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein a height of the groove is smaller than a thickness of the optical element. 8. The optical component according to claim 1, wherein the transparent sealing member is made of quartz glass or optical glass, and the refractive index matching agent is a silicone resin or a fluorine resin. 9. A transparent sealing member used in an optical component comprising at least one optical element, a mounting substrate on which the optical element is mounted, and a concave portion surrounding the optical element that is mounted on the mounting substrate, the transparent sealing member constituting a package in which the optical element is accommodated together with the mounting substrate,
wherein the transparent sealing member: is bonded to the mounting substrate in a state with a refractive index matching agent being filled in the concave portion; and includes, in a portion that is bonded to the mounting substrate, at least one groove configured to communicate with an exterior from the concave portion. 10. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, comprising a plurality of the grooves, wherein
the plurality of grooves are formed radially. 11. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein a step configured to communicate with the concave portion is formed around a periphery of the concave portion, within a portion where the transparent sealing member is bonded to the mounting substrate. 12. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein, assuming that a projected area of a portion where the transparent sealing member is bonded to the mounting substrate with respect to a bottom surface of the optical component is represented by A, and a projected area of the groove with respect to the bottom surface of the optical component is represented by B, then (B/A)×100 is greater than or equal to 5% and less than or equal to 30%. 13. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein a height of the groove is smaller than a thickness of the optical element. 14. The transparent sealing member according to claim 9, wherein the transparent sealing member is made of quartz glass or optical glass, and the refractive index matching agent is a silicone resin or a fluorine resin. | 2,400 |
341,349 | 16,801,665 | 1,771 | A static discharge device is formed of an electrical conductor to dissipate static charge from materials including fabrics, clothing and hair. The static discharge device can be used in a clothes dryer. Electrons can migrate to the electrical conductor to dissipate the static charge from materials. The static discharge device can be formed of a conductive thermoplastic material including a polymer and strands of metal or carbon. | 1. A static discharge device comprising;
a body, said body being formed of a conductive thermoplastic material. 2. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises a polymer including a conductor. 3. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the polymer is a low fiction polymer. 4. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the polymer is polypropylene (PP). 5. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the polymer is selected from one or more materials of the group consisting of: polypropylene (PP); nylon; polycarbonate (PC); polystyrene (PS); styrene acrylonitrile (SAN); acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); high density polyethylene (HDPE); low density polyethylene (LDPE); acetal; polyacetal; polyoxymethylene (POM); polysulfone (PSU); polybutylene terephthalate (PBT); polyethylene terephthalate (PET); ester-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); polyphenylene sulfide (PPS); polyethersulfone (PES); polyether-ester block copolymer thermoplastic Elastomer (TEEE; modified polyphenylene oxide (PPO); acrylic; poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA); polycarbonate/acrylic alloy (PC/PMMA); polyetherimide (PEI); Polyolefin; polycarbonate/polyester (PC/PBT); polyetheretherketone (PEEK); polyetherketone (PEK); rigid thermoplastic polyurethane (RTPU); polycarbonate/ABS alloy (PC/ABS); styrenic block copolymer thermoplastic elastomer (SBC); thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV); polymethylpentene (PMP); polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF); fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP); polyetherketoneetherketoneketone (PEKEKK); polyphthalamide (PPA); polyetherketoneketone (PEKK); thermoplastic polyimide (TPI); polysulfone/polycarbonate alloy (PSU/PC), high temperature nylon (HTN); polyketone (PK); syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS); thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). 6. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the conductor comprises metal particles or strands. 7. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the conductor comprises stainless steel strands. 8. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the conductor comprises carbon or carbon fiber 9. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises polypropylene and metal or carbon fibers. 10. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the body has a disc shape. 11. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the body has an oval or circular shape. 12. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein a coating is applied to the body. 13. The static discharge device of claim 12 wherein said coating comprises a nonconductive material. 14. The static discharge device of claim 12 wherein said coating comprised a conductive material. 15. The static discharge device of claim 12 wherein said coating comprised a dielectric material. 16. A method for removing static from one or more materials comprising the steps of:
placing one or more static discharge devices in a clothes dryer before or after loading clothes or fabrics into the clothes dryer, and tumbling the one or more static discharge devices with the one or more materials in the clothes dryer, wherein the more static discharge devices comprise a body, said body being formed of a conductive thermoplastic material. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the materials are fabrics or clothing. 18. The method of claim 16 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises a polymer including a conductor. 19. The method of claim 18 wherein the polymer is selected from one or more materials of the group consisting of: polypropylene (PP); nylon; polycarbonate (PC); polystyrene (PS); styrene acrylonitrile (SAN); acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); high density polyethylene (HDPE); low density polyethylene (LDPE); acetal; polyacetal; polyoxymethylene (POM); polysulfone (PSU); polybutylene terephthalate (PBT); polyethylene terephthalate (PET); ester-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); polyphenylene sulfide (PPS); polyethersulfone (PES); polyether-ester block copolymer thermoplastic Elastomer (TEEE; modified polyphenylene oxide (PPO); acrylic; poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA); polycarbonate/acrylic alloy (PC/PMMA); polyetherimide (PEI); Polyolefin; polycarbonate/polyester (PC/PBT); polyetheretherketone (PEEK); polyetherketone (PEK); rigid thermoplastic polyurethane (RTPU); polycarbonate/ABS alloy (PC/ABS); styrenic block copolymer thermoplastic elastomer (SBC); thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV); polymethylpentene (PMP); polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF); fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP); polyetherketoneetherketoneketone (PEKEKK); polyphthalamide (PPA); polyetherketoneketone (PEKK); thermoplastic polyimide (TPI); polysulfone/polycarbonate alloy (PSU/PC), high temperature nylon (HTN); polyketone (PK); syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS); thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). 20. The method of claim 16 wherein the conductor comprises carbon, carbon fiber or metal fibers or particles. 21. The method of claim 16 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises polypropylene and metal or carbon fibers. 22. A method for removing static from one or more materials comprising the step of:
moving static discharge device over a surface of one or more materials at a predetermined distance from the surface, static discharge devices in a clothes dryer before or after loading clothes or fabrics into the clothes dryer, wherein the more static discharge devices comprise a body, said body being formed of a conductive thermoplastic material. 23. The method of claim 22 wherein the one or more materials are fabric, clothing or hair. 24. The method of claim 22 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises a polymer including a conductor. 25. A method for manufacturing a static discharge device comprising the steps of:
a. blending a conductor into a polymer to form a conductive thermoplastic material; and b. shaping the conductive thermoplastic material into the static discharge device. 26. The method of claim 25 wherein in step b. the static discharge device is shaped into a disc shape. 27. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the body has bear shape. | A static discharge device is formed of an electrical conductor to dissipate static charge from materials including fabrics, clothing and hair. The static discharge device can be used in a clothes dryer. Electrons can migrate to the electrical conductor to dissipate the static charge from materials. The static discharge device can be formed of a conductive thermoplastic material including a polymer and strands of metal or carbon.1. A static discharge device comprising;
a body, said body being formed of a conductive thermoplastic material. 2. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises a polymer including a conductor. 3. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the polymer is a low fiction polymer. 4. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the polymer is polypropylene (PP). 5. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the polymer is selected from one or more materials of the group consisting of: polypropylene (PP); nylon; polycarbonate (PC); polystyrene (PS); styrene acrylonitrile (SAN); acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); high density polyethylene (HDPE); low density polyethylene (LDPE); acetal; polyacetal; polyoxymethylene (POM); polysulfone (PSU); polybutylene terephthalate (PBT); polyethylene terephthalate (PET); ester-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); polyphenylene sulfide (PPS); polyethersulfone (PES); polyether-ester block copolymer thermoplastic Elastomer (TEEE; modified polyphenylene oxide (PPO); acrylic; poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA); polycarbonate/acrylic alloy (PC/PMMA); polyetherimide (PEI); Polyolefin; polycarbonate/polyester (PC/PBT); polyetheretherketone (PEEK); polyetherketone (PEK); rigid thermoplastic polyurethane (RTPU); polycarbonate/ABS alloy (PC/ABS); styrenic block copolymer thermoplastic elastomer (SBC); thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV); polymethylpentene (PMP); polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF); fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP); polyetherketoneetherketoneketone (PEKEKK); polyphthalamide (PPA); polyetherketoneketone (PEKK); thermoplastic polyimide (TPI); polysulfone/polycarbonate alloy (PSU/PC), high temperature nylon (HTN); polyketone (PK); syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS); thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). 6. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the conductor comprises metal particles or strands. 7. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the conductor comprises stainless steel strands. 8. The static discharge device of claim 2 wherein the conductor comprises carbon or carbon fiber 9. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises polypropylene and metal or carbon fibers. 10. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the body has a disc shape. 11. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the body has an oval or circular shape. 12. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein a coating is applied to the body. 13. The static discharge device of claim 12 wherein said coating comprises a nonconductive material. 14. The static discharge device of claim 12 wherein said coating comprised a conductive material. 15. The static discharge device of claim 12 wherein said coating comprised a dielectric material. 16. A method for removing static from one or more materials comprising the steps of:
placing one or more static discharge devices in a clothes dryer before or after loading clothes or fabrics into the clothes dryer, and tumbling the one or more static discharge devices with the one or more materials in the clothes dryer, wherein the more static discharge devices comprise a body, said body being formed of a conductive thermoplastic material. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the materials are fabrics or clothing. 18. The method of claim 16 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises a polymer including a conductor. 19. The method of claim 18 wherein the polymer is selected from one or more materials of the group consisting of: polypropylene (PP); nylon; polycarbonate (PC); polystyrene (PS); styrene acrylonitrile (SAN); acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); high density polyethylene (HDPE); low density polyethylene (LDPE); acetal; polyacetal; polyoxymethylene (POM); polysulfone (PSU); polybutylene terephthalate (PBT); polyethylene terephthalate (PET); ester-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR); polyphenylene sulfide (PPS); polyethersulfone (PES); polyether-ester block copolymer thermoplastic Elastomer (TEEE; modified polyphenylene oxide (PPO); acrylic; poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA); polycarbonate/acrylic alloy (PC/PMMA); polyetherimide (PEI); Polyolefin; polycarbonate/polyester (PC/PBT); polyetheretherketone (PEEK); polyetherketone (PEK); rigid thermoplastic polyurethane (RTPU); polycarbonate/ABS alloy (PC/ABS); styrenic block copolymer thermoplastic elastomer (SBC); thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV); polymethylpentene (PMP); polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF); fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP); polyetherketoneetherketoneketone (PEKEKK); polyphthalamide (PPA); polyetherketoneketone (PEKK); thermoplastic polyimide (TPI); polysulfone/polycarbonate alloy (PSU/PC), high temperature nylon (HTN); polyketone (PK); syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS); thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). 20. The method of claim 16 wherein the conductor comprises carbon, carbon fiber or metal fibers or particles. 21. The method of claim 16 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises polypropylene and metal or carbon fibers. 22. A method for removing static from one or more materials comprising the step of:
moving static discharge device over a surface of one or more materials at a predetermined distance from the surface, static discharge devices in a clothes dryer before or after loading clothes or fabrics into the clothes dryer, wherein the more static discharge devices comprise a body, said body being formed of a conductive thermoplastic material. 23. The method of claim 22 wherein the one or more materials are fabric, clothing or hair. 24. The method of claim 22 wherein the conductive thermoplastic material comprises a polymer including a conductor. 25. A method for manufacturing a static discharge device comprising the steps of:
a. blending a conductor into a polymer to form a conductive thermoplastic material; and b. shaping the conductive thermoplastic material into the static discharge device. 26. The method of claim 25 wherein in step b. the static discharge device is shaped into a disc shape. 27. The static discharge device of claim 1 wherein the body has bear shape. | 1,700 |
341,350 | 16,801,636 | 1,771 | A stator member includes a stator core, a coil, and an insulator. The stator core has a shape extending in an axial direction, and has a side surface parallel to the axial direction. The coil has a linear shape and is wound around the side surface of the stator core. The coil has a coil end portion 231 at one end of the coil having the linear shape, and a coil end portion 232 at another end of the coil having the linear shape. The insulator has insulation properties, and is provided with an outer member. The outer member has a first recess and a second recess extending in a thickness direction. The coil end portion 231 is inserted into the first recess. The coil end portion 232 is inserted into the second recess. | 1. A stator, comprising:
a stator core configured with a shape extending along an axial direction and having a side surface extending in the axial direction; an insulator configured to be disposed adjacent to the side surface of the stator core; and a coil having a linear shape configured to wound around the side surface of the stator core with the insulator interposed therebetween, the coil comprising a first coil end a second coil end each having a liner shape, wherein the insulator comprises a central member covering the side surface of the stator core, and an outer member connected to the central member in the axial direction, the outer member comprises a first recess and a second recess wherein the first coil end is configured to be inserted into the first recess, and the second coil end is configured to be inserted into the second recess. 2. The stator of claim 1, wherein a direction in which the central member and the outer member are arranged being a thickness direction. 3. The stator according to claim 2, wherein
the first recess is disposed at a first end of the outer member in a width direction orthogonal to the thickness direction, and the second recess is disposed at a second end of the outer member in the width direction. 4. The stator according to claim 3, wherein
the outer member further comprises an outer end surface on a side opposite to a side of the central member, and a first side surface orthogonal to the outer end surface and forming one side of the outer member in the width direction, the first recess has a first end portion on the side of the central member, and a second end portion on the side of the outer end surface, and the second end portion is disposed so as to be closer to the first side surface than the first end portion. 5. The stator according to claim 4, wherein
the outer member has a second side surface orthogonal to the outer end surface, on an opposite side to the first side surface in the width direction, the second recess has a third end portion on the side of the central member, and a fourth end portion on the side of the outer end surface, and the fourth end portion is disposed so as to be closer to the second side surface than the third end portion. 6. The stator according to claim 5, wherein
the outer end surface comprises a first region on a side of the one end of the outer member, including a position at which the first recess is exposed, a second region on a side of another end of the outer member, including a position at which the second recess is exposed, and a central region between the first region and the second region in the width direction. 7. The stator according to claim 6, wherein
the first region has a planar shape and is inclined with respect to the central region such that an end on the side of the one end is located inside the stator relative to an end on the side of the central region, and the second region has a planar shape and is inclined with respect to the central region such that an end on the side of another end is located inside the stator relative to an end on the side of the central region. 8. A stator assembly comprising:
a first stator and a second stator adjacent to each other, wherein each of the first stator and the second stator comprise: a stator core configured with a shape extending along an axial direction and having a side surface extending in the axial direction; an insulator configured to be disposed adjacent to the side surface of the stator core; and a coil having a linear shape configured to wound around the side surface of the stator core with the insulator interposed therebetween, the coil comprising a first coil end and a second coil end each having a liner shape, wherein the insulator comprises a central member covering the side surface of the stator core, and an outer member connected to the central member in the axial direction, the outer member comprises a first recess and a second recess wherein the first coil end is configured to be inserted into the first recess, and the second coil end is configured to be inserted into the second recess, wherein a direction in which the central member and the outer member are arranged being a thickness direction, the first recess is disposed at a first end of the outer member in a width direction orthogonal to the thickness direction, the second recess is disposed at a second end of the outer member in the width direction, wherein the first stator and the second stator are disposed in an annular shape, and one end in the width direction of the outer member of the first stator, and one end in the width direction of the outer member of the second stator are opposed and proximate to each other. 9. The stator assembly of claim 8, further comprising a rotor member disposed in a central opening of the stator assembly, and having an axis orthogonal to an opening surface; and
a busbar disposed so as to be proximate to the stator assembly along a direction in which the axis of the rotor member extends. 10. The stator assembly of claim 9, wherein the busbar comprises a base portion in an annular shape, and a connection terminal in a plate shape connected to the base portion, and connected to the first coil end of the first stator and the second coil end of the second stator. 11. The stator assembly of claim 10, wherein the connection terminal is disposed so as to overlap with a portion where the first stator and the second stator are proximate and opposed to each other, and comprises a connection terminal recess that is proximate to the first recess and the second recess, and passes through the connection terminal in a thickness direction, and
each of the first coil end of the first stator and the second coil end of the second stator is configured to be inserted into the connection terminal recess. 12. The stator assembly of claim 11, wherein the outer member further comprises an outer end surface on a side opposite to a side of the central member. 13. The stator assembly of claim 12, wherein the connection terminal further comprises
a first portion connected to the base portion, and having a main surface parallel to the base portion, and a second portion connected to the first portion, and having a main surface orthogonal to the main surface of the first portion, and the main surface of the second portion is parallel to the outer end surface of the outer member adjacent to the main surface of the second portion. | A stator member includes a stator core, a coil, and an insulator. The stator core has a shape extending in an axial direction, and has a side surface parallel to the axial direction. The coil has a linear shape and is wound around the side surface of the stator core. The coil has a coil end portion 231 at one end of the coil having the linear shape, and a coil end portion 232 at another end of the coil having the linear shape. The insulator has insulation properties, and is provided with an outer member. The outer member has a first recess and a second recess extending in a thickness direction. The coil end portion 231 is inserted into the first recess. The coil end portion 232 is inserted into the second recess.1. A stator, comprising:
a stator core configured with a shape extending along an axial direction and having a side surface extending in the axial direction; an insulator configured to be disposed adjacent to the side surface of the stator core; and a coil having a linear shape configured to wound around the side surface of the stator core with the insulator interposed therebetween, the coil comprising a first coil end a second coil end each having a liner shape, wherein the insulator comprises a central member covering the side surface of the stator core, and an outer member connected to the central member in the axial direction, the outer member comprises a first recess and a second recess wherein the first coil end is configured to be inserted into the first recess, and the second coil end is configured to be inserted into the second recess. 2. The stator of claim 1, wherein a direction in which the central member and the outer member are arranged being a thickness direction. 3. The stator according to claim 2, wherein
the first recess is disposed at a first end of the outer member in a width direction orthogonal to the thickness direction, and the second recess is disposed at a second end of the outer member in the width direction. 4. The stator according to claim 3, wherein
the outer member further comprises an outer end surface on a side opposite to a side of the central member, and a first side surface orthogonal to the outer end surface and forming one side of the outer member in the width direction, the first recess has a first end portion on the side of the central member, and a second end portion on the side of the outer end surface, and the second end portion is disposed so as to be closer to the first side surface than the first end portion. 5. The stator according to claim 4, wherein
the outer member has a second side surface orthogonal to the outer end surface, on an opposite side to the first side surface in the width direction, the second recess has a third end portion on the side of the central member, and a fourth end portion on the side of the outer end surface, and the fourth end portion is disposed so as to be closer to the second side surface than the third end portion. 6. The stator according to claim 5, wherein
the outer end surface comprises a first region on a side of the one end of the outer member, including a position at which the first recess is exposed, a second region on a side of another end of the outer member, including a position at which the second recess is exposed, and a central region between the first region and the second region in the width direction. 7. The stator according to claim 6, wherein
the first region has a planar shape and is inclined with respect to the central region such that an end on the side of the one end is located inside the stator relative to an end on the side of the central region, and the second region has a planar shape and is inclined with respect to the central region such that an end on the side of another end is located inside the stator relative to an end on the side of the central region. 8. A stator assembly comprising:
a first stator and a second stator adjacent to each other, wherein each of the first stator and the second stator comprise: a stator core configured with a shape extending along an axial direction and having a side surface extending in the axial direction; an insulator configured to be disposed adjacent to the side surface of the stator core; and a coil having a linear shape configured to wound around the side surface of the stator core with the insulator interposed therebetween, the coil comprising a first coil end and a second coil end each having a liner shape, wherein the insulator comprises a central member covering the side surface of the stator core, and an outer member connected to the central member in the axial direction, the outer member comprises a first recess and a second recess wherein the first coil end is configured to be inserted into the first recess, and the second coil end is configured to be inserted into the second recess, wherein a direction in which the central member and the outer member are arranged being a thickness direction, the first recess is disposed at a first end of the outer member in a width direction orthogonal to the thickness direction, the second recess is disposed at a second end of the outer member in the width direction, wherein the first stator and the second stator are disposed in an annular shape, and one end in the width direction of the outer member of the first stator, and one end in the width direction of the outer member of the second stator are opposed and proximate to each other. 9. The stator assembly of claim 8, further comprising a rotor member disposed in a central opening of the stator assembly, and having an axis orthogonal to an opening surface; and
a busbar disposed so as to be proximate to the stator assembly along a direction in which the axis of the rotor member extends. 10. The stator assembly of claim 9, wherein the busbar comprises a base portion in an annular shape, and a connection terminal in a plate shape connected to the base portion, and connected to the first coil end of the first stator and the second coil end of the second stator. 11. The stator assembly of claim 10, wherein the connection terminal is disposed so as to overlap with a portion where the first stator and the second stator are proximate and opposed to each other, and comprises a connection terminal recess that is proximate to the first recess and the second recess, and passes through the connection terminal in a thickness direction, and
each of the first coil end of the first stator and the second coil end of the second stator is configured to be inserted into the connection terminal recess. 12. The stator assembly of claim 11, wherein the outer member further comprises an outer end surface on a side opposite to a side of the central member. 13. The stator assembly of claim 12, wherein the connection terminal further comprises
a first portion connected to the base portion, and having a main surface parallel to the base portion, and a second portion connected to the first portion, and having a main surface orthogonal to the main surface of the first portion, and the main surface of the second portion is parallel to the outer end surface of the outer member adjacent to the main surface of the second portion. | 1,700 |
341,351 | 16,801,668 | 1,771 | Methods for increasing the stability of, or protecting, labile components such as ethanolamine, growth factors, vitamins, etc., in compositions such as a cell culture medium. Stability of the labile compound is increased either, by derivatization of the labile compound with chemicals, or by sequestering the labile compound. Sequestering can be done either by encapsulation within a microcapsule, or by the use of sequestering agents. Encapsulation includes the encapsulation of dendrimers complexes of susceptible compounds within the microcapsule, thereby providing the controlled release of the susceptible compound that was protected. | 1.-31. (canceled) 32. A method of encapsulating a labile compound for protection from adverse reactions within a composition, comprising:
a. reacting the labile compound with a dendrimer to produce a dendrimer-labile compound complex; b. encapsulating the dendrimer-labile compound complex of step a) within a sequestering agent, to produce an encapsulated dendrimer-labile compound complex, and; c. admixing the encapsulated dendrimer-labile compound complex of step b) with one or more components in the composition, wherein said labile compound is ethanolamine. 33. (canceled) 34. The method of claim 32, wherein said composition is a cell culture medium, a cell culture supplement, or a cell culture feed. 35. The method of claim 34, wherein said cell culture medium, cell culture supplement, or cell culture feed is a dry media. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein said dry media is an agglomerated media. 37.-39. (canceled) 40. The method of claim 32, wherein the sequestering agent is a soluble matrix made up of a molecule comprising an alcohol, a ketone or an aldehyde. 41. The method of claim 40 wherein the soluble matrix is made up of a sugar. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the sugar is maltodextrin. 43. The method of claim 32 wherein the sequestering agent is an insoluble matrix selected from the group consisting of alginate, poly-L-lactic acid, chitosan, agarose, gelatin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, dextran, dextran sulfate, heparin, heparin sulfate, heparan sulfate, gellan gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, water soluble cellulose derivatives, poly-glycolic acid, PLGA (poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid), collagen, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), poly-ε-caprolactone, poly-ortho esters, poly-anhydrides, poly-phosphazenes, poly-amino acids, polydimethylsiloxane, polyurethranes, poly-tetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene, polysulphone, poly-methyl methacrylate, poly-2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, polyamides, polypropylene, poly-vinyl chloride, polystyrene, poly-vinyl pyrrolidone and carrageenan. 44. The method of claim 32, wherein the dendrimer is selected from the group consisting of a polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer, a polypropylenimine (PPI) dendrimer, a phosphorylated dendrimer, a polylysine dendrimer, a polyethylenimine dendrimer, an iptycene dendrimer, an aliphatic poly(ether) dendrimer, an aromatic polyether dendrimer, and a polypropylamine (POPAM) dendrimer. 45.-49. (canceled) | Methods for increasing the stability of, or protecting, labile components such as ethanolamine, growth factors, vitamins, etc., in compositions such as a cell culture medium. Stability of the labile compound is increased either, by derivatization of the labile compound with chemicals, or by sequestering the labile compound. Sequestering can be done either by encapsulation within a microcapsule, or by the use of sequestering agents. Encapsulation includes the encapsulation of dendrimers complexes of susceptible compounds within the microcapsule, thereby providing the controlled release of the susceptible compound that was protected.1.-31. (canceled) 32. A method of encapsulating a labile compound for protection from adverse reactions within a composition, comprising:
a. reacting the labile compound with a dendrimer to produce a dendrimer-labile compound complex; b. encapsulating the dendrimer-labile compound complex of step a) within a sequestering agent, to produce an encapsulated dendrimer-labile compound complex, and; c. admixing the encapsulated dendrimer-labile compound complex of step b) with one or more components in the composition, wherein said labile compound is ethanolamine. 33. (canceled) 34. The method of claim 32, wherein said composition is a cell culture medium, a cell culture supplement, or a cell culture feed. 35. The method of claim 34, wherein said cell culture medium, cell culture supplement, or cell culture feed is a dry media. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein said dry media is an agglomerated media. 37.-39. (canceled) 40. The method of claim 32, wherein the sequestering agent is a soluble matrix made up of a molecule comprising an alcohol, a ketone or an aldehyde. 41. The method of claim 40 wherein the soluble matrix is made up of a sugar. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the sugar is maltodextrin. 43. The method of claim 32 wherein the sequestering agent is an insoluble matrix selected from the group consisting of alginate, poly-L-lactic acid, chitosan, agarose, gelatin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, dextran, dextran sulfate, heparin, heparin sulfate, heparan sulfate, gellan gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, water soluble cellulose derivatives, poly-glycolic acid, PLGA (poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid), collagen, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), poly-ε-caprolactone, poly-ortho esters, poly-anhydrides, poly-phosphazenes, poly-amino acids, polydimethylsiloxane, polyurethranes, poly-tetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene, polysulphone, poly-methyl methacrylate, poly-2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, polyamides, polypropylene, poly-vinyl chloride, polystyrene, poly-vinyl pyrrolidone and carrageenan. 44. The method of claim 32, wherein the dendrimer is selected from the group consisting of a polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer, a polypropylenimine (PPI) dendrimer, a phosphorylated dendrimer, a polylysine dendrimer, a polyethylenimine dendrimer, an iptycene dendrimer, an aliphatic poly(ether) dendrimer, an aromatic polyether dendrimer, and a polypropylamine (POPAM) dendrimer. 45.-49. (canceled) | 1,700 |
341,352 | 16,801,701 | 1,771 | A cover window is provided, which is a flexible cover window, the cover window being a glass-based cover window for a flexible display and including: a folding part slimmed by corresponding to a folding area of the display, wherein a thickness (t2) of the cover window is 50 to 300 μm and a thickness (t1) of the folding part is 20 to 100 μm. The glass-based cover window has excellent strength and folding properties while maintaining the intrinsic texture of glass. | 1. A flexible cover window, the cover window being a glass-based cover window for a flexible display and comprising:
a folding part slimmed by corresponding to a folding area of the display, wherein a thickness (t2) of the cover window is 50 to 300 μm and a thickness (t1) of the folding part is 20 to 100 μm. 2. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the folding part is provided on a surface or opposite surfaces of the cover window. 3. The cover window of claim 2, wherein when the folding part is provided on the opposite surfaces of the cover window, depths of the folding parts are configured to be the same or different. 4. The cover window of claim 3, wherein the folding part of a back surface of the cover window is configured to be deeper. 5. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the folding part is provided to be uniform in the thickness in a folding area of the cover window. 6. The cover window of claim 5, wherein a buffer part is provided on opposite ends of the folding part, the buffer part having thickness that gradually becomes larger from the folding part and continues to a plane area of the cover window. 7. The cover window of claim 6, wherein inclination of the buffer part is 1˜50° relative to the folding part. 8. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the cover window satisfies a minimum curvature radius of 0.5 to 2.5 mm during folding. 9. The cover window of claim 1, wherein a width (W1) of the folding part is 3.0 to 8.0 mm. 10. The cover window of claim 1, wherein slimming of the folding part is performed by any one process of wet etching, polishing, laser forming, and masking processes, by a process of combining the at least two process thereof, or by the wet etching, the laser forming, or the masking process, which is followed by the polishing process. 11. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the folding part is filled with a transparent resin material so that the cover window is bonded to a total surface of a display panel without an empty space therebetween. 12. The cover window of claim 11, wherein the folding part is filled with the transparent resin material, and a total surface of the cover window is continuously coated with the transparent resin material toward an upper side of the folding part. 13. The cover window of claim 11, wherein the transparent resin material is an optical clear resin (OCR). 14. The cover window of claim 11, wherein when the folding part is provided on opposite surfaces of the cover window, the transparent resin material, with which the folding part of a back surface of the cover window is filled, is provided as a material softer than the transparent resin material, with which the folding part of a front surface thereof is filled. 15. The cover window of claim 14, wherein the folding part is filled with the transparent resin material, and a total surface of the cover window is continuously coated with the transparent resin material toward an upper side of the folding part. 16. The cover window of claim 12, wherein a functional coating layer is further provided on a surface or opposite surfaces of the cover window. 17. The cover window of claim 16, wherein the functional coating layer is provided in a single layer or multiple layers. 18. The cover window of claim 17, wherein a functional coating layer provided on a front surface of the cover window is embodied as a strength reinforcement layer, and a functional coating layer provided on a back surface of the cover window is embodied as an elastic reinforcement layer. 19. The cover window of claim 18, wherein when the functional coating layer provided on the front surface of the cover window is provided in multiple layers, the functional coating layer is formed of a material getting harder upward. 20. The cover window of claim 19, wherein a functional coating layer provided on an uppermost layer is given an anti-finger (AF) or an anti-reflective (AR) function. 21. The cover window of claim 11, wherein a bonding film is further provided on a surface or opposite surfaces of the cover window. 22. The cover window of claim 21, wherein the bonding film is an anti-splinter film (ASF). | A cover window is provided, which is a flexible cover window, the cover window being a glass-based cover window for a flexible display and including: a folding part slimmed by corresponding to a folding area of the display, wherein a thickness (t2) of the cover window is 50 to 300 μm and a thickness (t1) of the folding part is 20 to 100 μm. The glass-based cover window has excellent strength and folding properties while maintaining the intrinsic texture of glass.1. A flexible cover window, the cover window being a glass-based cover window for a flexible display and comprising:
a folding part slimmed by corresponding to a folding area of the display, wherein a thickness (t2) of the cover window is 50 to 300 μm and a thickness (t1) of the folding part is 20 to 100 μm. 2. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the folding part is provided on a surface or opposite surfaces of the cover window. 3. The cover window of claim 2, wherein when the folding part is provided on the opposite surfaces of the cover window, depths of the folding parts are configured to be the same or different. 4. The cover window of claim 3, wherein the folding part of a back surface of the cover window is configured to be deeper. 5. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the folding part is provided to be uniform in the thickness in a folding area of the cover window. 6. The cover window of claim 5, wherein a buffer part is provided on opposite ends of the folding part, the buffer part having thickness that gradually becomes larger from the folding part and continues to a plane area of the cover window. 7. The cover window of claim 6, wherein inclination of the buffer part is 1˜50° relative to the folding part. 8. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the cover window satisfies a minimum curvature radius of 0.5 to 2.5 mm during folding. 9. The cover window of claim 1, wherein a width (W1) of the folding part is 3.0 to 8.0 mm. 10. The cover window of claim 1, wherein slimming of the folding part is performed by any one process of wet etching, polishing, laser forming, and masking processes, by a process of combining the at least two process thereof, or by the wet etching, the laser forming, or the masking process, which is followed by the polishing process. 11. The cover window of claim 1, wherein the folding part is filled with a transparent resin material so that the cover window is bonded to a total surface of a display panel without an empty space therebetween. 12. The cover window of claim 11, wherein the folding part is filled with the transparent resin material, and a total surface of the cover window is continuously coated with the transparent resin material toward an upper side of the folding part. 13. The cover window of claim 11, wherein the transparent resin material is an optical clear resin (OCR). 14. The cover window of claim 11, wherein when the folding part is provided on opposite surfaces of the cover window, the transparent resin material, with which the folding part of a back surface of the cover window is filled, is provided as a material softer than the transparent resin material, with which the folding part of a front surface thereof is filled. 15. The cover window of claim 14, wherein the folding part is filled with the transparent resin material, and a total surface of the cover window is continuously coated with the transparent resin material toward an upper side of the folding part. 16. The cover window of claim 12, wherein a functional coating layer is further provided on a surface or opposite surfaces of the cover window. 17. The cover window of claim 16, wherein the functional coating layer is provided in a single layer or multiple layers. 18. The cover window of claim 17, wherein a functional coating layer provided on a front surface of the cover window is embodied as a strength reinforcement layer, and a functional coating layer provided on a back surface of the cover window is embodied as an elastic reinforcement layer. 19. The cover window of claim 18, wherein when the functional coating layer provided on the front surface of the cover window is provided in multiple layers, the functional coating layer is formed of a material getting harder upward. 20. The cover window of claim 19, wherein a functional coating layer provided on an uppermost layer is given an anti-finger (AF) or an anti-reflective (AR) function. 21. The cover window of claim 11, wherein a bonding film is further provided on a surface or opposite surfaces of the cover window. 22. The cover window of claim 21, wherein the bonding film is an anti-splinter film (ASF). | 1,700 |
341,353 | 16,801,680 | 1,771 | An information display device attachable to a structure includes a display panel and a surface member. The display panel has a display surface and displays information on the display surface. The surface member is a surface member disposed on the display surface side of the display panel, and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel. When the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member. | 1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a display panel that has a display surface and displays information on the display surface; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel, wherein, when the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, when the display is turned off or when information is not displayed on the display surface of the display, the display panel becomes invisible through the surface member. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein a light transmittance of the surface member is 8% to 15%. 4. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a screen luminance of 200 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or less after transmission through the surface member. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a luminance of the display surface adjusted to 800 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or more. 6. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a structural body attached to a back side of the surface member, wherein the structural body has a retainer for fixing the information display device to the structure at a position not visible from a front side of the surface member. 7. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein the structural body is disposed at a position that does not overlap a display surface of the display panel. 8. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein at least the surface member side of the structural body is colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 9. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, between the display panel and the surface member, a region other than the display surface that surrounds the display surface has a colored layer colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 10. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein the colored layer has a higher light transmittance as being closer to the display surface. 11. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein an edge of the colored layer that surrounds the display surface has a rounded shape with an arc-shaped corner. 12. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch panel disposed between the display panel and the surface member; and a cushion member disposed to be peelable between the surface member and the touch panel, and formed of a material that has light transmitting properties, and deforms when a force is applied thereto. 13. The information display device of claim 12, further comprising:
a non-adhesive layer that is disposed on at least one of the front side and the back side of the cushion member and prevents the cushion member from adhering to the surface member or the touch panel. 14. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the structure is a wall, a ceiling, a door of a container, or a seat disposed in a moving object, and the information display device is disposed at a position visible from a passenger or a crew of the moving object. | An information display device attachable to a structure includes a display panel and a surface member. The display panel has a display surface and displays information on the display surface. The surface member is a surface member disposed on the display surface side of the display panel, and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel. When the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member.1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a display panel that has a display surface and displays information on the display surface; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel, wherein, when the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, when the display is turned off or when information is not displayed on the display surface of the display, the display panel becomes invisible through the surface member. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein a light transmittance of the surface member is 8% to 15%. 4. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a screen luminance of 200 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or less after transmission through the surface member. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a luminance of the display surface adjusted to 800 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or more. 6. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a structural body attached to a back side of the surface member, wherein the structural body has a retainer for fixing the information display device to the structure at a position not visible from a front side of the surface member. 7. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein the structural body is disposed at a position that does not overlap a display surface of the display panel. 8. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein at least the surface member side of the structural body is colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 9. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, between the display panel and the surface member, a region other than the display surface that surrounds the display surface has a colored layer colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 10. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein the colored layer has a higher light transmittance as being closer to the display surface. 11. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein an edge of the colored layer that surrounds the display surface has a rounded shape with an arc-shaped corner. 12. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch panel disposed between the display panel and the surface member; and a cushion member disposed to be peelable between the surface member and the touch panel, and formed of a material that has light transmitting properties, and deforms when a force is applied thereto. 13. The information display device of claim 12, further comprising:
a non-adhesive layer that is disposed on at least one of the front side and the back side of the cushion member and prevents the cushion member from adhering to the surface member or the touch panel. 14. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the structure is a wall, a ceiling, a door of a container, or a seat disposed in a moving object, and the information display device is disposed at a position visible from a passenger or a crew of the moving object. | 1,700 |
341,354 | 16,801,697 | 1,771 | An information display device attachable to a structure includes a display panel and a surface member. The display panel has a display surface and displays information on the display surface. The surface member is a surface member disposed on the display surface side of the display panel, and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel. When the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member. | 1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a display panel that has a display surface and displays information on the display surface; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel, wherein, when the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, when the display is turned off or when information is not displayed on the display surface of the display, the display panel becomes invisible through the surface member. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein a light transmittance of the surface member is 8% to 15%. 4. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a screen luminance of 200 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or less after transmission through the surface member. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a luminance of the display surface adjusted to 800 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or more. 6. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a structural body attached to a back side of the surface member, wherein the structural body has a retainer for fixing the information display device to the structure at a position not visible from a front side of the surface member. 7. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein the structural body is disposed at a position that does not overlap a display surface of the display panel. 8. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein at least the surface member side of the structural body is colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 9. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, between the display panel and the surface member, a region other than the display surface that surrounds the display surface has a colored layer colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 10. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein the colored layer has a higher light transmittance as being closer to the display surface. 11. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein an edge of the colored layer that surrounds the display surface has a rounded shape with an arc-shaped corner. 12. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch panel disposed between the display panel and the surface member; and a cushion member disposed to be peelable between the surface member and the touch panel, and formed of a material that has light transmitting properties, and deforms when a force is applied thereto. 13. The information display device of claim 12, further comprising:
a non-adhesive layer that is disposed on at least one of the front side and the back side of the cushion member and prevents the cushion member from adhering to the surface member or the touch panel. 14. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the structure is a wall, a ceiling, a door of a container, or a seat disposed in a moving object, and the information display device is disposed at a position visible from a passenger or a crew of the moving object. | An information display device attachable to a structure includes a display panel and a surface member. The display panel has a display surface and displays information on the display surface. The surface member is a surface member disposed on the display surface side of the display panel, and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel. When the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member.1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a display panel that has a display surface and displays information on the display surface; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel and has a surface area larger than that of the display panel, wherein, when the display panel is turned on, only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible through the surface member. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, when the display is turned off or when information is not displayed on the display surface of the display, the display panel becomes invisible through the surface member. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein a light transmittance of the surface member is 8% to 15%. 4. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a screen luminance of 200 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or less after transmission through the surface member. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a luminance of the display surface adjusted to 800 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or more. 6. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a structural body attached to a back side of the surface member, wherein the structural body has a retainer for fixing the information display device to the structure at a position not visible from a front side of the surface member. 7. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein the structural body is disposed at a position that does not overlap a display surface of the display panel. 8. The information display device of claim 6,
wherein at least the surface member side of the structural body is colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 9. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein, between the display panel and the surface member, a region other than the display surface that surrounds the display surface has a colored layer colored with substantially the same color as that of the display surface when the display panel is turned off. 10. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein the colored layer has a higher light transmittance as being closer to the display surface. 11. The information display device of claim 9,
wherein an edge of the colored layer that surrounds the display surface has a rounded shape with an arc-shaped corner. 12. The information display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a touch panel disposed between the display panel and the surface member; and a cushion member disposed to be peelable between the surface member and the touch panel, and formed of a material that has light transmitting properties, and deforms when a force is applied thereto. 13. The information display device of claim 12, further comprising:
a non-adhesive layer that is disposed on at least one of the front side and the back side of the cushion member and prevents the cushion member from adhering to the surface member or the touch panel. 14. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the structure is a wall, a ceiling, a door of a container, or a seat disposed in a moving object, and the information display device is disposed at a position visible from a passenger or a crew of the moving object. | 1,700 |
341,355 | 16,801,676 | 1,771 | Devices and methods for sensing a memory cell are described. The memory cell may include a ferroelectric memory cell. During a read operation, a cascode may couple a precharged capacitor with the memory cell to transfer a charge between the precharged capacitor and the memory cell. The cascode may isolate the capacitor from the memory cell based on the charge transferred between the capacitor and the memory cell. A second capacitor (e.g., a parasitic capacitor) may continue to provide an additional amount of charge to the memory cell during the read operation. Such a change in capacitance value during the read operation may provide a large sense window due to a non-linear voltage characteristics associated with the change in capacitance value. | 1. (canceled) 2. A device, comprising:
a memory cell configured to store a logic state; a first capacitor configured to integrate a charge associated with the memory cell during a read operation; a first cascode coupled with the memory cell and a first node; and a second cascode coupled with the first capacitor and the first node, wherein the second cascode is configured to isolate the first node from the first capacitor based at least in part on a voltage of a digit line failing to satisfy a threshold. 3. The device of claim 2, further comprising:
a first transistor coupled with the first node and a sense component and configured to selectively couple the first node with the sense component during the read operation after the first capacitor is isolated from the first node. 4. The device of claim 2, wherein the second cascode is configured to enable a sense window during the read operation based at least in part on the second cascode being coupled with the first capacitor and a sense component. 5. The device of claim 2, further comprising:
a second transistor coupled with the first capacitor and a second node of the second cascode, the second transistor is configured to precharge the first capacitor to a first voltage during the read operation. 6. The device of claim 2, wherein the second cascode is configured to selectively isolate the first capacitor from the first node during the read operation. 7. The device of claim 2, further comprising:
a second capacitor coupled with the first node, wherein the second capacitor is configured to transfer an additional charge to the memory cell after the first capacitor is isolated from the memory cell. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the second capacitor comprises a parasitic capacitance at the first node. 9. The device of claim 7, wherein at least the first node or the first capacitor is configured to discharge a first voltage with a first rate of change. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein at least the first node or the second capacitor is configured to discharge a second voltage with a second rate of change, wherein the second rate of change is greater than the first rate of change. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein the first rate of change and the second rate of change configure a sense window during the read operation. 12. The device of claim 2, wherein the memory cell is configured to receive, when the memory cell stores a first logic state, a first amount of charge during the read operation that is greater than a second amount of charge received when the memory cell stores a second logic state. 13. A method, comprising:
transferring a charge associated with a memory cell between the memory cell and a capacitor through a first cascode and a second cascode during a read operation, the first cascode being coupled with the memory cell and a first node, and the second cascode being coupled with the capacitor and the first node; isolating the first node from the capacitor based at least in part on transferring the charge and on a voltage of a digit line failing to satisfy a threshold; coupling, using a transistor, the first node with a sense component after isolating the first node from the capacitor; and determining a logic state stored on the memory cell based at least in part on coupling the first node with the sense component. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
coupling the memory cell to the digit line that has been charged to a first voltage; and supplying the charge from the capacitor to the memory cell based at least in part on coupling the memory cell to the digit line. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the charge supplied from the capacitor is associated with the memory cell storing a first logic state, the charge being less than a second charge associated with the memory cell storing a second logic state. 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
isolating the capacitor from the memory cell by deactivating the second cascode based at least in part on transferring the charge between the memory cell and the capacitor. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein deactivating the second cascode is based at least in part on a voltage across the capacitor being reduced during the read operation. 18. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
transferring an additional charge from the first node to the memory cell based at least in part on transferring the charge between the memory cell and the capacitor through. 19. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
coupling the memory cell to the first node based at least in part on biasing a word line, wherein the first node is configured to couple with the sense component; and establishing a voltage that is indicative of the logic state stored on the memory cell at the first node based at least in part on coupling the memory cell to the first node. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:
deactivating the second cascode to isolate the first node from the capacitor based at least in part on establishing the voltage at the first node; and activating the transistor positioned between the first node and the sense component to couple the first node with the sense component during the read operation based at least in part on deactivating the first cascode. 21. A memory device, comprising:
a memory array comprising a memory cell coupled with a digit line; a controller coupled with the memory array and with a capacitor configured to integrate a charge associated with the memory cell during a read operation, the controller configured to cause the memory device:
transfer the charge between the memory cell and the capacitor through a first cascode and a second cascode during the read operation, the first cascode being coupled with the memory cell and a first node, and the second cascode being coupled with the capacitor and the first node;
isolate the first node from the capacitor based at least in part on transferring the charge and on a voltage of the digit line failing to satisfy a threshold;
couple, using a transistor, the first node with a sense component after isolating the first node from the capacitor; and
determine a logic state stored on the memory cell based at least in part on coupling the first node with the sense component. | Devices and methods for sensing a memory cell are described. The memory cell may include a ferroelectric memory cell. During a read operation, a cascode may couple a precharged capacitor with the memory cell to transfer a charge between the precharged capacitor and the memory cell. The cascode may isolate the capacitor from the memory cell based on the charge transferred between the capacitor and the memory cell. A second capacitor (e.g., a parasitic capacitor) may continue to provide an additional amount of charge to the memory cell during the read operation. Such a change in capacitance value during the read operation may provide a large sense window due to a non-linear voltage characteristics associated with the change in capacitance value.1. (canceled) 2. A device, comprising:
a memory cell configured to store a logic state; a first capacitor configured to integrate a charge associated with the memory cell during a read operation; a first cascode coupled with the memory cell and a first node; and a second cascode coupled with the first capacitor and the first node, wherein the second cascode is configured to isolate the first node from the first capacitor based at least in part on a voltage of a digit line failing to satisfy a threshold. 3. The device of claim 2, further comprising:
a first transistor coupled with the first node and a sense component and configured to selectively couple the first node with the sense component during the read operation after the first capacitor is isolated from the first node. 4. The device of claim 2, wherein the second cascode is configured to enable a sense window during the read operation based at least in part on the second cascode being coupled with the first capacitor and a sense component. 5. The device of claim 2, further comprising:
a second transistor coupled with the first capacitor and a second node of the second cascode, the second transistor is configured to precharge the first capacitor to a first voltage during the read operation. 6. The device of claim 2, wherein the second cascode is configured to selectively isolate the first capacitor from the first node during the read operation. 7. The device of claim 2, further comprising:
a second capacitor coupled with the first node, wherein the second capacitor is configured to transfer an additional charge to the memory cell after the first capacitor is isolated from the memory cell. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the second capacitor comprises a parasitic capacitance at the first node. 9. The device of claim 7, wherein at least the first node or the first capacitor is configured to discharge a first voltage with a first rate of change. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein at least the first node or the second capacitor is configured to discharge a second voltage with a second rate of change, wherein the second rate of change is greater than the first rate of change. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein the first rate of change and the second rate of change configure a sense window during the read operation. 12. The device of claim 2, wherein the memory cell is configured to receive, when the memory cell stores a first logic state, a first amount of charge during the read operation that is greater than a second amount of charge received when the memory cell stores a second logic state. 13. A method, comprising:
transferring a charge associated with a memory cell between the memory cell and a capacitor through a first cascode and a second cascode during a read operation, the first cascode being coupled with the memory cell and a first node, and the second cascode being coupled with the capacitor and the first node; isolating the first node from the capacitor based at least in part on transferring the charge and on a voltage of a digit line failing to satisfy a threshold; coupling, using a transistor, the first node with a sense component after isolating the first node from the capacitor; and determining a logic state stored on the memory cell based at least in part on coupling the first node with the sense component. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
coupling the memory cell to the digit line that has been charged to a first voltage; and supplying the charge from the capacitor to the memory cell based at least in part on coupling the memory cell to the digit line. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the charge supplied from the capacitor is associated with the memory cell storing a first logic state, the charge being less than a second charge associated with the memory cell storing a second logic state. 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
isolating the capacitor from the memory cell by deactivating the second cascode based at least in part on transferring the charge between the memory cell and the capacitor. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein deactivating the second cascode is based at least in part on a voltage across the capacitor being reduced during the read operation. 18. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
transferring an additional charge from the first node to the memory cell based at least in part on transferring the charge between the memory cell and the capacitor through. 19. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
coupling the memory cell to the first node based at least in part on biasing a word line, wherein the first node is configured to couple with the sense component; and establishing a voltage that is indicative of the logic state stored on the memory cell at the first node based at least in part on coupling the memory cell to the first node. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:
deactivating the second cascode to isolate the first node from the capacitor based at least in part on establishing the voltage at the first node; and activating the transistor positioned between the first node and the sense component to couple the first node with the sense component during the read operation based at least in part on deactivating the first cascode. 21. A memory device, comprising:
a memory array comprising a memory cell coupled with a digit line; a controller coupled with the memory array and with a capacitor configured to integrate a charge associated with the memory cell during a read operation, the controller configured to cause the memory device:
transfer the charge between the memory cell and the capacitor through a first cascode and a second cascode during the read operation, the first cascode being coupled with the memory cell and a first node, and the second cascode being coupled with the capacitor and the first node;
isolate the first node from the capacitor based at least in part on transferring the charge and on a voltage of the digit line failing to satisfy a threshold;
couple, using a transistor, the first node with a sense component after isolating the first node from the capacitor; and
determine a logic state stored on the memory cell based at least in part on coupling the first node with the sense component. | 1,700 |
341,356 | 16,801,687 | 1,771 | A skateboard with a standing surface for a user and with two wheel axles, on each of which at least two wheels are rotatably mounted, with a mounting for connecting the wheel axles to the standing surface and with steering gears in order to pivot the wheel axles about a vertical axis for steering by tilting the standing surface about its longitudinal axis from a starting position intersecting the longitudinal axis perpendicularly, characterized in that the wheel axles are arranged on the underside of the standing surface. | 1. Skateboard with a standing surface for a user and with two wheel axles, on each of which at least two wheels are rotatably mounted, with a mounting or a support for connecting the wheel axles to the standing surface and with steering gears in order to pivot the wheel axles about a vertical axis for steering by tilting the standing surface about its longitudinal axis from a starting position intersecting the longitudinal axis perpendicularly, wherein the wheel axles are arranged on the underside of the standing surface. 2. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the standing surface is formed by two standing boards or, by a single standing board covering both wheel axles. 3. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the standing surface is pivotable relative to each of the wheel axles. 4. Skateboard according to claim 3, wherein the steering gears comprise bevel gears, by means of which the standing surface is pivotable about the longitudinal axis of the skateboard. 5. Skateboard according to claim 4, wherein the standing boards can be pivoted through an angle of at most 35°. 6. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the wheel axles together with a central vertical hub each are arranged rotatably relative to the vertical axes of the hubs of the skateboard and the contact surface of the skateboard. 7. Skateboard according to claim 6, wherein the wheel axles are each arranged so as to be rotatable through an angle of at most 45° to each side with respect to the vertical axles. 8. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the wheel axles are each connected to a hub which in turn surrounds the respective vertical axle. 9. Skateboard according to claim 8, wherein the hubs are each mounted around the vertical axis via roller bearings, ball bearings and/or slide bearings. 10. Skateboard according to claim 1, in that the two pivotally mounted standing boards are connected to each other by means of a connecting rod mounted in slide bearings. 11. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the at least one standing board is constructed from a plurality of layers which are laid loosely one on top of the other and are fastened together by screwed or riveted connections with respect to one of the steering gears, or in that the layers are adhesively connected to one another. 12. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein adhesive nubs are attached to the at least one standing board. 13. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the steering gears are formed by control cams having inclined planes and cam rollers cooperating therewith. 14. Skateboard according to claim 1, in that it comprises on each side of the standing boards per axle a pair of wheels, which are each rotatably mounted in a lateral support frame. 15. Skateboard according to claim 14, in that the lateral support frames are rotatably mounted on a supporting frame mounted about the central vertical axis or in that the lateral support frames are rigidly mounted on the supporting frame mounted about the central axis. | A skateboard with a standing surface for a user and with two wheel axles, on each of which at least two wheels are rotatably mounted, with a mounting for connecting the wheel axles to the standing surface and with steering gears in order to pivot the wheel axles about a vertical axis for steering by tilting the standing surface about its longitudinal axis from a starting position intersecting the longitudinal axis perpendicularly, characterized in that the wheel axles are arranged on the underside of the standing surface.1. Skateboard with a standing surface for a user and with two wheel axles, on each of which at least two wheels are rotatably mounted, with a mounting or a support for connecting the wheel axles to the standing surface and with steering gears in order to pivot the wheel axles about a vertical axis for steering by tilting the standing surface about its longitudinal axis from a starting position intersecting the longitudinal axis perpendicularly, wherein the wheel axles are arranged on the underside of the standing surface. 2. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the standing surface is formed by two standing boards or, by a single standing board covering both wheel axles. 3. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the standing surface is pivotable relative to each of the wheel axles. 4. Skateboard according to claim 3, wherein the steering gears comprise bevel gears, by means of which the standing surface is pivotable about the longitudinal axis of the skateboard. 5. Skateboard according to claim 4, wherein the standing boards can be pivoted through an angle of at most 35°. 6. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the wheel axles together with a central vertical hub each are arranged rotatably relative to the vertical axes of the hubs of the skateboard and the contact surface of the skateboard. 7. Skateboard according to claim 6, wherein the wheel axles are each arranged so as to be rotatable through an angle of at most 45° to each side with respect to the vertical axles. 8. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the wheel axles are each connected to a hub which in turn surrounds the respective vertical axle. 9. Skateboard according to claim 8, wherein the hubs are each mounted around the vertical axis via roller bearings, ball bearings and/or slide bearings. 10. Skateboard according to claim 1, in that the two pivotally mounted standing boards are connected to each other by means of a connecting rod mounted in slide bearings. 11. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the at least one standing board is constructed from a plurality of layers which are laid loosely one on top of the other and are fastened together by screwed or riveted connections with respect to one of the steering gears, or in that the layers are adhesively connected to one another. 12. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein adhesive nubs are attached to the at least one standing board. 13. Skateboard according to claim 1, wherein the steering gears are formed by control cams having inclined planes and cam rollers cooperating therewith. 14. Skateboard according to claim 1, in that it comprises on each side of the standing boards per axle a pair of wheels, which are each rotatably mounted in a lateral support frame. 15. Skateboard according to claim 14, in that the lateral support frames are rotatably mounted on a supporting frame mounted about the central vertical axis or in that the lateral support frames are rigidly mounted on the supporting frame mounted about the central axis. | 1,700 |
341,357 | 16,801,670 | 1,771 | A polarizer that can realize the multi-functionalization and high-functionalization of an electronic device, such as an image display apparatus. A polarizer including a resin film containing a dichroic substance, wherein the polarizer has a low dichroic substance concentration portion whose content of the dichroic substance is relatively low in the resin film. In the polarizer, the low dichroic substance concentration portion has a content of an alkali metal and/or an alkaline earth metal of 3.6 wt % or less. | 1. A method of producing a polarizer, comprising:
bringing a basic solution into contact with a resin film containing a dichroic substance; and reducing, in the contact portion, a content of an alkali metal and/or an alkaline earth metal in the resin film, wherein the reducing a content of an alkali metal salt and/or an alkaline earth metal salt is performed by bringing a treatment liquid into contact with the contact portion. 2. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the reducing a content of an alkali metal and/or an alkaline earth metal in the contact portion is performed so that the content may be 3.6 wt % or less. 3. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the treatment liquid contains water or alcohol. 4. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the treatment liquid has a temperature of 40° C. or more. 5. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the treatment liquid is an acidic solution. 6. The production method according to claim 5, wherein the resin film contains boric acid, and
wherein the treatment liquid is an acidic solution containing an acidic compound having an acidity stronger than that of boric acid. | A polarizer that can realize the multi-functionalization and high-functionalization of an electronic device, such as an image display apparatus. A polarizer including a resin film containing a dichroic substance, wherein the polarizer has a low dichroic substance concentration portion whose content of the dichroic substance is relatively low in the resin film. In the polarizer, the low dichroic substance concentration portion has a content of an alkali metal and/or an alkaline earth metal of 3.6 wt % or less.1. A method of producing a polarizer, comprising:
bringing a basic solution into contact with a resin film containing a dichroic substance; and reducing, in the contact portion, a content of an alkali metal and/or an alkaline earth metal in the resin film, wherein the reducing a content of an alkali metal salt and/or an alkaline earth metal salt is performed by bringing a treatment liquid into contact with the contact portion. 2. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the reducing a content of an alkali metal and/or an alkaline earth metal in the contact portion is performed so that the content may be 3.6 wt % or less. 3. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the treatment liquid contains water or alcohol. 4. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the treatment liquid has a temperature of 40° C. or more. 5. The production method according to claim 1, wherein the treatment liquid is an acidic solution. 6. The production method according to claim 5, wherein the resin film contains boric acid, and
wherein the treatment liquid is an acidic solution containing an acidic compound having an acidity stronger than that of boric acid. | 1,700 |
341,358 | 16,801,666 | 1,771 | Embodiments of the disclosure provide a method for evaluating dialyzers used in different medical applications (e.g., hemodialysis). Red blood cell volume lost in a dialyzer is monitored by obtaining blood flowrate measurements and hematocrit measurements at input ports and output ports of the dialyzer. The flowrate and hematocrit measurements are used to determine an accumulation of red cell blood volume in the dialyzer. The measurements may be obtained in a lab environment with an in-vitro blood source or may be obtained in a clinical setting with an in-vivo blood source from a patient. | 1. A dialyzer analysis system, comprising:
a first sensor connected to a first portion of a blood flow path disposed on an input side of a dialyzer, wherein the first sensor is configured to obtain a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; a second sensor connected to a second portion of the blood flow path disposed on an output side of the dialyzer, wherein the second sensor is configured to obtain a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and a controller configured to determine a red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer based on the measurements from the first and second sensors. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:
determine a flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; and determine a flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the determined flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path and the determined flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path. 3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the controller is further configured to:
determine an input red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing into the dialyzer based on the measurement from the first sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; determine an output red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing out of the dialyzer based on the measurement from the second sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determine a difference ΔR between the input red blood cell volume flow and the output red blood cell volume flow; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the difference ΔR. 4. The system according to claim 3, wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value. 5. The system according to claim 4, wherein using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value comprises:
multiplying each ΔR value by a respective time slice and summing respective red blood cell volume losses corresponding to each respective time slice. 6. The system according to claim 4, wherein using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value comprises:
determining a function for ΔR and integrating the function over the period of time. 7. The system according to claim 2, wherein determining the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path based on a pumping rate of a pump configured to pump the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path into the dialyzer. 8. The system according to claim 2, further comprising:
a flowmeter coupled to the first portion of the blood flow path; wherein the controller is configured to determine the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path using the flowmeter. 9. The system according to claim 2, further comprising:
a flowmeter coupled to the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein the controller is configured to determine the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path using the flowmeter. 10. The system according to claim 2, wherein the controller is further configured to:
determine the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path based on an ultrafiltration rate and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; or determine the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path based on the ultrafiltration rate and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path. 11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to output a rating for the dialyzer based on the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer. 12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to output a comparison of the dialyzer to one or more other dialyzers based on respective red blood cell volume losses corresponding to each dialyzer. 13. A method for dialyzer analysis, comprising:
obtaining, by a first sensor of a dialyzer analysis system connected to a first portion of a blood flow path disposed on an input side of a dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; obtaining, by a second sensor of the dialyzer analysis system connected to a second portion of the blood flow path disposed on an output side of the dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining, by a controller of the dialyzer analysis system, a red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer based on the measurements from the first and second sensors. 14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising:
determining a flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; and determining a flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the determined flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path and the determined flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path. 15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising:
determining an input red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing into the dialyzer based on the measurement from the first sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; determining an output red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing out of the dialyzer based on the measurement from the second sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining a difference ΔR between the input red blood cell volume flow and the output red blood cell volume flow; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the difference ΔR. 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value. 17. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having processor-executable instructions stored thereon for dialyzer analysis, the processor-executable instructions, when executed, facilitating:
obtaining, by a first sensor of a dialyzer analysis system connected to a first portion of a blood flow path disposed on an input side of a dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; obtaining, by a second sensor of the dialyzer analysis system connected to a second portion of the blood flow path disposed on an output side of the dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining, by a controller of the dialyzer analysis system, a red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer based on the measurements from the first and second sensors. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 17, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed, further facilitate:
determining a flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; and determining a flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the determined flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path and the determined flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 18, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed, further facilitate:
determining an input red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing into the dialyzer based on the measurement from the first sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; determining an output red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing out of the dialyzer based on the measurement from the second sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining a difference ΔR between the input red blood cell volume flow and the output red blood cell volume flow; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the difference ΔR. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 19, wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value. | Embodiments of the disclosure provide a method for evaluating dialyzers used in different medical applications (e.g., hemodialysis). Red blood cell volume lost in a dialyzer is monitored by obtaining blood flowrate measurements and hematocrit measurements at input ports and output ports of the dialyzer. The flowrate and hematocrit measurements are used to determine an accumulation of red cell blood volume in the dialyzer. The measurements may be obtained in a lab environment with an in-vitro blood source or may be obtained in a clinical setting with an in-vivo blood source from a patient.1. A dialyzer analysis system, comprising:
a first sensor connected to a first portion of a blood flow path disposed on an input side of a dialyzer, wherein the first sensor is configured to obtain a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; a second sensor connected to a second portion of the blood flow path disposed on an output side of the dialyzer, wherein the second sensor is configured to obtain a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and a controller configured to determine a red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer based on the measurements from the first and second sensors. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:
determine a flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; and determine a flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the determined flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path and the determined flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path. 3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the controller is further configured to:
determine an input red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing into the dialyzer based on the measurement from the first sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; determine an output red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing out of the dialyzer based on the measurement from the second sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determine a difference ΔR between the input red blood cell volume flow and the output red blood cell volume flow; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the difference ΔR. 4. The system according to claim 3, wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value. 5. The system according to claim 4, wherein using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value comprises:
multiplying each ΔR value by a respective time slice and summing respective red blood cell volume losses corresponding to each respective time slice. 6. The system according to claim 4, wherein using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value comprises:
determining a function for ΔR and integrating the function over the period of time. 7. The system according to claim 2, wherein determining the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path based on a pumping rate of a pump configured to pump the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path into the dialyzer. 8. The system according to claim 2, further comprising:
a flowmeter coupled to the first portion of the blood flow path; wherein the controller is configured to determine the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path using the flowmeter. 9. The system according to claim 2, further comprising:
a flowmeter coupled to the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein the controller is configured to determine the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path using the flowmeter. 10. The system according to claim 2, wherein the controller is further configured to:
determine the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path based on an ultrafiltration rate and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; or determine the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path based on the ultrafiltration rate and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path. 11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to output a rating for the dialyzer based on the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer. 12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to output a comparison of the dialyzer to one or more other dialyzers based on respective red blood cell volume losses corresponding to each dialyzer. 13. A method for dialyzer analysis, comprising:
obtaining, by a first sensor of a dialyzer analysis system connected to a first portion of a blood flow path disposed on an input side of a dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; obtaining, by a second sensor of the dialyzer analysis system connected to a second portion of the blood flow path disposed on an output side of the dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining, by a controller of the dialyzer analysis system, a red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer based on the measurements from the first and second sensors. 14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising:
determining a flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; and determining a flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the determined flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path and the determined flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path. 15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising:
determining an input red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing into the dialyzer based on the measurement from the first sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; determining an output red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing out of the dialyzer based on the measurement from the second sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining a difference ΔR between the input red blood cell volume flow and the output red blood cell volume flow; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the difference ΔR. 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value. 17. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having processor-executable instructions stored thereon for dialyzer analysis, the processor-executable instructions, when executed, facilitating:
obtaining, by a first sensor of a dialyzer analysis system connected to a first portion of a blood flow path disposed on an input side of a dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; obtaining, by a second sensor of the dialyzer analysis system connected to a second portion of the blood flow path disposed on an output side of the dialyzer, a measurement corresponding to hematocrit of blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining, by a controller of the dialyzer analysis system, a red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer based on the measurements from the first and second sensors. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 17, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed, further facilitate:
determining a flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; and determining a flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the determined flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path and the determined flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 18, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed, further facilitate:
determining an input red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing into the dialyzer based on the measurement from the first sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the first portion of the blood flow path; determining an output red blood cell volume flow corresponding to blood flowing out of the dialyzer based on the measurement from the second sensor and the flowrate of the blood in the second portion of the blood flow path; and determining a difference ΔR between the input red blood cell volume flow and the output red blood cell volume flow; wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on the difference ΔR. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 19, wherein determining the red blood cell volume loss corresponding to the dialyzer is further based on using one or more ΔR values over a period of time to determine an accumulated red blood cell volume loss value. | 1,700 |
341,359 | 16,801,683 | 1,771 | Described are a system, method, and computer program product for detecting malicious changelog modifications with blockchain. The method includes receiving, from a computing device of a user, a request for a database transaction. The method also includes determining transaction-operative data associated with the database transaction and a user identifier. The method further includes generating an encrypted transaction record including the transaction-operative data and the user identifier. The method further includes broadcasting the encrypted transaction record to a changelog blockchain and, in response to receiving a confirmation of publication as a changelog record, initiating the database transaction. The method further includes receiving a verification request and the changelog record from a target blockchain. The method further includes determining a public key associated with the user, attempting to decrypt the changelog record using the public key and, based on the result, detecting tampering or verifying the target blockchain. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving, with at least one processor from a computing device of a user, at least one request for at least one database transaction; determining, with at least one processor, transaction-operative data associated with the at least one database transaction and a user identifier associated with the user; generating, with at least one processor using a private key of the user, an encrypted transaction record comprising an encryption of the transaction-operative data and the user identifier; broadcasting, with at least one processor, the encrypted transaction record to at least one changelog blockchain; in response to receiving at least one confirmation of the encrypted transaction record being published as a changelog record to the at least one changelog blockchain, initiating the at least one database transaction; receiving, with at least one processor, a verification request identifying the at least one database transaction and a target blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; receiving, with at least one processor, a first changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from the target blockchain; determining, with at least one processor from a public key infrastructure (PKI), a public key associated with the user; attempting, with at least one processor, to decrypt the first changelog record using the public key; and
(i) in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, detecting tampering of the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or
(ii) in response to successful decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, verifying the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein initiating the at least one database transaction comprises storing, in at least one database, a blockchain pointer to the encrypted transaction record in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, further comprising identifying the first changelog record from the verification request based on the blockchain pointer stored in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising, in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key:
receiving, with at least one processor, a second changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from a separate blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; and attempting, with at least one processor, to decrypt the second changelog record using the public key. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising, in response to failed decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, detecting tampering of the separate blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising, in response to successful decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, restoring the first changelog record of the target blockchain using the second changelog record of the separate blockchain. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the at least one database transaction comprises a plurality of database transactions, and wherein the verification request is associated with an automatically triggered internal review of a database system, the verification request further configured to cause at least one processor to attempt to decrypt each changelog record of the target blockchain associated with each of the at least one database transaction. 8. A system comprising a server comprising at least one processor, the server being programmed and/or configured to:
receive, from a computing device of a user, at least one request for at least one database transaction; determine transaction-operative data associated with the at least one database transaction and a user identifier associated with the user; generate, using a private key of the user, an encrypted transaction record comprising an encryption of the transaction-operative data and the user identifier; broadcast the encrypted transaction record to at least one changelog blockchain; in response to receiving at least one confirmation of the encrypted transaction record being published as a changelog record to the at least one changelog blockchain, initiate the at least one database transaction; receive a verification request identifying the at least one database transaction and a target blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; receive a first changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from the target blockchain; determine, from a public key infrastructure (PKI), a public key associated with the user; attempt to decrypt the first changelog record using the public key; and
(i) in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or
(ii) in response to successful decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, verify the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein initiating the at least one database transaction comprises storing, in at least one database, a blockchain pointer to the encrypted transaction record in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to identify the first changelog record from the verification request based on the blockchain pointer stored in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to, in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key:
receive a second changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from a separate blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; and attempt to decrypt the second changelog record using the public key. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to, in response to failed decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the separate blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to, in response to successful decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, restore the first changelog record of the target blockchain using the second changelog record of the separate blockchain. 14. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one database transaction comprises a plurality of database transactions, and wherein the verification request is associated with an automatically triggered internal review of a database system, the verification request further configured to cause the server to attempt to decrypt each changelog record of the target blockchain associated with each of the at least one database transaction. 15. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
receive, from a computing device of a user, at least one request for at least one database transaction; determine transaction-operative data associated with the at least one database transaction and a user identifier associated with the user; generate, using a private key of the user, an encrypted transaction record comprising an encryption of the transaction-operative data and the user identifier; broadcast the encrypted transaction record to at least one changelog blockchain; in response to receiving at least one confirmation of the encrypted transaction record being published as a changelog record to the at least one changelog blockchain, initiate the at least one database transaction; receive a verification request identifying the at least one database transaction and a target blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; receive a first changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from the target blockchain; determine, from a public key infrastructure (PKI), a public key associated with the user; attempt to decrypt the first changelog record using the public key; and
(i) in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or
(ii) in response to successful decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, verify the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein initiating the at least one database transaction comprises storing, in at least one database, a blockchain pointer to the encrypted transaction record in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to identify the first changelog record from the verification request based on the blockchain pointer stored in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 18. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to, in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key:
receive a second changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from a separate blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; and attempt to decrypt the second changelog record using the public key. 19. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to:
in response to failed decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the separate blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or in response to successful decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, restore the first changelog record of the target blockchain using the second changelog record of the separate blockchain. 20. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the at least one database transaction comprises a plurality of database transactions, and wherein the verification request is associated with an automatically triggered internal review of a database system, the verification request further configured to cause the at least one processor to attempt to decrypt each changelog record of the target blockchain associated with each of the at least one database transaction. | Described are a system, method, and computer program product for detecting malicious changelog modifications with blockchain. The method includes receiving, from a computing device of a user, a request for a database transaction. The method also includes determining transaction-operative data associated with the database transaction and a user identifier. The method further includes generating an encrypted transaction record including the transaction-operative data and the user identifier. The method further includes broadcasting the encrypted transaction record to a changelog blockchain and, in response to receiving a confirmation of publication as a changelog record, initiating the database transaction. The method further includes receiving a verification request and the changelog record from a target blockchain. The method further includes determining a public key associated with the user, attempting to decrypt the changelog record using the public key and, based on the result, detecting tampering or verifying the target blockchain.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving, with at least one processor from a computing device of a user, at least one request for at least one database transaction; determining, with at least one processor, transaction-operative data associated with the at least one database transaction and a user identifier associated with the user; generating, with at least one processor using a private key of the user, an encrypted transaction record comprising an encryption of the transaction-operative data and the user identifier; broadcasting, with at least one processor, the encrypted transaction record to at least one changelog blockchain; in response to receiving at least one confirmation of the encrypted transaction record being published as a changelog record to the at least one changelog blockchain, initiating the at least one database transaction; receiving, with at least one processor, a verification request identifying the at least one database transaction and a target blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; receiving, with at least one processor, a first changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from the target blockchain; determining, with at least one processor from a public key infrastructure (PKI), a public key associated with the user; attempting, with at least one processor, to decrypt the first changelog record using the public key; and
(i) in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, detecting tampering of the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or
(ii) in response to successful decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, verifying the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein initiating the at least one database transaction comprises storing, in at least one database, a blockchain pointer to the encrypted transaction record in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, further comprising identifying the first changelog record from the verification request based on the blockchain pointer stored in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising, in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key:
receiving, with at least one processor, a second changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from a separate blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; and attempting, with at least one processor, to decrypt the second changelog record using the public key. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising, in response to failed decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, detecting tampering of the separate blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising, in response to successful decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, restoring the first changelog record of the target blockchain using the second changelog record of the separate blockchain. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the at least one database transaction comprises a plurality of database transactions, and wherein the verification request is associated with an automatically triggered internal review of a database system, the verification request further configured to cause at least one processor to attempt to decrypt each changelog record of the target blockchain associated with each of the at least one database transaction. 8. A system comprising a server comprising at least one processor, the server being programmed and/or configured to:
receive, from a computing device of a user, at least one request for at least one database transaction; determine transaction-operative data associated with the at least one database transaction and a user identifier associated with the user; generate, using a private key of the user, an encrypted transaction record comprising an encryption of the transaction-operative data and the user identifier; broadcast the encrypted transaction record to at least one changelog blockchain; in response to receiving at least one confirmation of the encrypted transaction record being published as a changelog record to the at least one changelog blockchain, initiate the at least one database transaction; receive a verification request identifying the at least one database transaction and a target blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; receive a first changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from the target blockchain; determine, from a public key infrastructure (PKI), a public key associated with the user; attempt to decrypt the first changelog record using the public key; and
(i) in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or
(ii) in response to successful decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, verify the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein initiating the at least one database transaction comprises storing, in at least one database, a blockchain pointer to the encrypted transaction record in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to identify the first changelog record from the verification request based on the blockchain pointer stored in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to, in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key:
receive a second changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from a separate blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; and attempt to decrypt the second changelog record using the public key. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to, in response to failed decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the separate blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 13. The system of claim 11, wherein the server is further programmed and/or configured to, in response to successful decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, restore the first changelog record of the target blockchain using the second changelog record of the separate blockchain. 14. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one database transaction comprises a plurality of database transactions, and wherein the verification request is associated with an automatically triggered internal review of a database system, the verification request further configured to cause the server to attempt to decrypt each changelog record of the target blockchain associated with each of the at least one database transaction. 15. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
receive, from a computing device of a user, at least one request for at least one database transaction; determine transaction-operative data associated with the at least one database transaction and a user identifier associated with the user; generate, using a private key of the user, an encrypted transaction record comprising an encryption of the transaction-operative data and the user identifier; broadcast the encrypted transaction record to at least one changelog blockchain; in response to receiving at least one confirmation of the encrypted transaction record being published as a changelog record to the at least one changelog blockchain, initiate the at least one database transaction; receive a verification request identifying the at least one database transaction and a target blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; receive a first changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from the target blockchain; determine, from a public key infrastructure (PKI), a public key associated with the user; attempt to decrypt the first changelog record using the public key; and
(i) in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or
(ii) in response to successful decryption of the first changelog record using the public key, verify the target blockchain for the at least one database transaction. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein initiating the at least one database transaction comprises storing, in at least one database, a blockchain pointer to the encrypted transaction record in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to identify the first changelog record from the verification request based on the blockchain pointer stored in association with transaction data of the at least one database transaction. 18. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to, in response to failed decryption of the first changelog record using the public key:
receive a second changelog record associated with the at least one database transaction from a separate blockchain of the at least one changelog blockchain; and attempt to decrypt the second changelog record using the public key. 19. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the program instructions further cause the at least one processor to:
in response to failed decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, detect tampering of the separate blockchain for the at least one database transaction; or in response to successful decryption of the second changelog record using the public key, restore the first changelog record of the target blockchain using the second changelog record of the separate blockchain. 20. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the at least one database transaction comprises a plurality of database transactions, and wherein the verification request is associated with an automatically triggered internal review of a database system, the verification request further configured to cause the at least one processor to attempt to decrypt each changelog record of the target blockchain associated with each of the at least one database transaction. | 1,700 |
341,360 | 16,801,664 | 1,771 | A vehicle battery controller includes a sensor configured to acquire information on a subordinate battery configured to back up a main battery during autonomous driving, a DDC provided between the main battery and the subordinate battery, a switching circuit configured to switch a connection state of the subordinate battery between a connection state for manual driving and a connection state for the autonomous driving, and an electronic control unit configured to control charging and discharging of the subordinate battery by controlling the DDC and the switching circuit based on the information acquired by the sensor. The electronic control unit permits the autonomous driving when determination is made, through first battery control, that the subordinate battery can output backup power. The electronic control unit determines whether the subordinate battery can output the backup power by executing second battery control having higher accuracy than that of the first battery control. | 1. A vehicle battery controller comprising:
a sensor configured to acquire information related to a current, a voltage, and a temperature of a subordinate battery configured to back up a main battery during autonomous driving; a DC-DC converter provided between the main battery and the subordinate battery; a switching circuit configured to switch a connection state of the subordinate battery between a connection state for manual driving and a connection state for the autonomous driving; and an electronic control unit configured to:
control charging and discharging of the subordinate battery by controlling the DC-DC converter and the switching circuit based on the information acquired by the sensor;
tentatively determine, by executing a first battery control during a period of the manual driving after an ignition is turned ON, whether the subordinate battery is able to output backup power necessary during a limp home mode of the autonomous driving;
permit the autonomous driving when determination is made, through the first battery control, that the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power;
execute the autonomous driving in response to a request after the autonomous driving is permitted; and
determine, by executing a second battery control after the autonomous driving is permitted, whether the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power, the second battery control having higher accuracy than accuracy of the first battery control. 2. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 1, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to, as the first battery control:
execute charging and discharging of the subordinate battery in a first time; calculate a resistance value of the subordinate battery based on changes in the current and the voltage during the charging and discharging; estimate whether a first temperature of the subordinate battery is lower than a first reference temperature, the first temperature being obtained based on the calculated resistance value under a condition that a resistance value and a power storage amount necessary for backup are satisfied; and determine that the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power when estimation is made that the first temperature of the subordinate battery is lower than the first reference temperature. 3. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 2, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to, as the second battery control:
execute discharging of the subordinate battery in a second time longer than the first time; calculate an average current during the discharging and a decreased voltage after the discharging; determine whether outputtable power of the subordinate battery is equal to or higher than the backup power required for the subordinate battery at a second reference temperature, the outputtable power being obtained based on the average current and the decreased voltage that are calculated; and determine that the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power when determination is made that the outputtable power of the subordinate battery is equal to or higher than the backup power required for the subordinate battery at the second reference temperature. 4. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 3, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to cause a current to flow as the discharging of the subordinate battery, the current being necessary during the limp home mode of the autonomous driving. 5. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 3, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to stop the discharging of the subordinate battery in the second battery control when determination is made that an output voltage of the subordinate battery decreases at a magnitude of a change rate equal to or higher than a predetermined value during the discharging of the subordinate battery. 6. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 3, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to provide a plurality of the second reference temperatures depending on a deterioration degree of the subordinate battery. 7. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 1, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to:
control, during the manual driving, a power storage amount of the subordinate battery to be a first power storage amount set based on an upper limit power storage value; and control, during the autonomous driving, the power storage amount of the subordinate battery to be a second power storage amount that is lower than the first power storage amount and is set based on a withstand voltage of an on-board device electrically connected to the subordinate battery during the autonomous driving. 8. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 1, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to prohibit the autonomous driving when the electronic control unit determines, by executing the second battery control after the autonomous driving is permitted, that the subordinate battery is not able to output the backup power. | A vehicle battery controller includes a sensor configured to acquire information on a subordinate battery configured to back up a main battery during autonomous driving, a DDC provided between the main battery and the subordinate battery, a switching circuit configured to switch a connection state of the subordinate battery between a connection state for manual driving and a connection state for the autonomous driving, and an electronic control unit configured to control charging and discharging of the subordinate battery by controlling the DDC and the switching circuit based on the information acquired by the sensor. The electronic control unit permits the autonomous driving when determination is made, through first battery control, that the subordinate battery can output backup power. The electronic control unit determines whether the subordinate battery can output the backup power by executing second battery control having higher accuracy than that of the first battery control.1. A vehicle battery controller comprising:
a sensor configured to acquire information related to a current, a voltage, and a temperature of a subordinate battery configured to back up a main battery during autonomous driving; a DC-DC converter provided between the main battery and the subordinate battery; a switching circuit configured to switch a connection state of the subordinate battery between a connection state for manual driving and a connection state for the autonomous driving; and an electronic control unit configured to:
control charging and discharging of the subordinate battery by controlling the DC-DC converter and the switching circuit based on the information acquired by the sensor;
tentatively determine, by executing a first battery control during a period of the manual driving after an ignition is turned ON, whether the subordinate battery is able to output backup power necessary during a limp home mode of the autonomous driving;
permit the autonomous driving when determination is made, through the first battery control, that the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power;
execute the autonomous driving in response to a request after the autonomous driving is permitted; and
determine, by executing a second battery control after the autonomous driving is permitted, whether the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power, the second battery control having higher accuracy than accuracy of the first battery control. 2. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 1, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to, as the first battery control:
execute charging and discharging of the subordinate battery in a first time; calculate a resistance value of the subordinate battery based on changes in the current and the voltage during the charging and discharging; estimate whether a first temperature of the subordinate battery is lower than a first reference temperature, the first temperature being obtained based on the calculated resistance value under a condition that a resistance value and a power storage amount necessary for backup are satisfied; and determine that the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power when estimation is made that the first temperature of the subordinate battery is lower than the first reference temperature. 3. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 2, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to, as the second battery control:
execute discharging of the subordinate battery in a second time longer than the first time; calculate an average current during the discharging and a decreased voltage after the discharging; determine whether outputtable power of the subordinate battery is equal to or higher than the backup power required for the subordinate battery at a second reference temperature, the outputtable power being obtained based on the average current and the decreased voltage that are calculated; and determine that the subordinate battery is able to output the backup power when determination is made that the outputtable power of the subordinate battery is equal to or higher than the backup power required for the subordinate battery at the second reference temperature. 4. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 3, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to cause a current to flow as the discharging of the subordinate battery, the current being necessary during the limp home mode of the autonomous driving. 5. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 3, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to stop the discharging of the subordinate battery in the second battery control when determination is made that an output voltage of the subordinate battery decreases at a magnitude of a change rate equal to or higher than a predetermined value during the discharging of the subordinate battery. 6. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 3, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to provide a plurality of the second reference temperatures depending on a deterioration degree of the subordinate battery. 7. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 1, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to:
control, during the manual driving, a power storage amount of the subordinate battery to be a first power storage amount set based on an upper limit power storage value; and control, during the autonomous driving, the power storage amount of the subordinate battery to be a second power storage amount that is lower than the first power storage amount and is set based on a withstand voltage of an on-board device electrically connected to the subordinate battery during the autonomous driving. 8. The vehicle battery controller according to claim 1, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to prohibit the autonomous driving when the electronic control unit determines, by executing the second battery control after the autonomous driving is permitted, that the subordinate battery is not able to output the backup power. | 1,700 |
341,361 | 16,801,678 | 1,771 | An optical line terminal receives a sequence of optical power test transmissions from an optical network unit, wherein the sequence of optical power test transmissions includes a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions. The optical line terminal decides whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on an extinction ratio and an average transmit power, wherein the extinction ratio is based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, and the average transmit power is based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions. | 1. A method of determining whether an optical network unit is malfunctioning, the method comprising:
receiving, at an optical line terminal, a sequence of optical power test transmissions from the optical network unit, the sequence of optical power test transmissions including a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values during a third time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; determining, at the optical line terminal, an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; determining, at the optical line terminal, an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval; and deciding, at the optical line terminal, whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
transmitting a power test command from the optical line terminal to the optical network unit to initiate transmission of the sequence of optical power test transmissions. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
computing, at the optical line terminal, an optical modulation amplitude for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and wherein the deciding decides whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the optical modulation amplitude. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the deciding comprises:
deciding whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on whether the optical modulation amplitude is between a minimum threshold value and a maximum threshold value. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are subsequent to the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are prior to the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 8. An optical line terminal comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to
receive a sequence of optical power test transmissions from an optical network unit, the sequence of optical power test transmissions including a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values during a third time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval,
determine an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions,
determine an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, and
decide whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 9. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to transmit a power test command to the optical network unit to initiate transmission of the sequence of optical power test transmissions at the optical network unit. 10. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to
compute an optical modulation amplitude for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power, and decide whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the optical modulation amplitude. 11. The optical line terminal of claim 10, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to decide whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on whether the optical modulation amplitude is between a minimum threshold value and a maximum threshold value. 12. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to receive a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 13. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are subsequent to the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to receive a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 14. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are prior to the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to receive a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 15. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause an optical line terminal to perform a method of determining whether an optical network unit is malfunctioning, the method comprising:
receiving a sequence of optical power test transmissions from the optical network unit, the sequence of optical power test transmissions including a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values during a third time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; determining an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; determining an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval; and deciding whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the method further comprises:
transmitting a power test command from the optical line terminal to the optical network unit to initiate transmission of the sequence of optical power test transmissions. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the method further comprises:
computing, at the optical line terminal, an optical modulation amplitude for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and wherein the deciding decides whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on whether the optical modulation amplitude is between a minimum threshold value and a maximum threshold value. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are subsequent to the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are prior to the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. | An optical line terminal receives a sequence of optical power test transmissions from an optical network unit, wherein the sequence of optical power test transmissions includes a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions. The optical line terminal decides whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on an extinction ratio and an average transmit power, wherein the extinction ratio is based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions, and the average transmit power is based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions.1. A method of determining whether an optical network unit is malfunctioning, the method comprising:
receiving, at an optical line terminal, a sequence of optical power test transmissions from the optical network unit, the sequence of optical power test transmissions including a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values during a third time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; determining, at the optical line terminal, an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; determining, at the optical line terminal, an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval; and deciding, at the optical line terminal, whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
transmitting a power test command from the optical line terminal to the optical network unit to initiate transmission of the sequence of optical power test transmissions. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
computing, at the optical line terminal, an optical modulation amplitude for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and wherein the deciding decides whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the optical modulation amplitude. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the deciding comprises:
deciding whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on whether the optical modulation amplitude is between a minimum threshold value and a maximum threshold value. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are subsequent to the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are prior to the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 8. An optical line terminal comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to
receive a sequence of optical power test transmissions from an optical network unit, the sequence of optical power test transmissions including a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values during a third time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval,
determine an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions,
determine an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval, and
decide whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 9. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to transmit a power test command to the optical network unit to initiate transmission of the sequence of optical power test transmissions at the optical network unit. 10. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to
compute an optical modulation amplitude for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power, and decide whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the optical modulation amplitude. 11. The optical line terminal of claim 10, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to decide whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on whether the optical modulation amplitude is between a minimum threshold value and a maximum threshold value. 12. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to receive a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 13. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are subsequent to the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to receive a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 14. The optical line terminal of claim 8, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are prior to the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the optical line terminal to receive a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 15. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause an optical line terminal to perform a method of determining whether an optical network unit is malfunctioning, the method comprising:
receiving a sequence of optical power test transmissions from the optical network unit, the sequence of optical power test transmissions including a first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a first logic value during a first time interval, a second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of a second logic value during a second time interval, and a third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions indicative of alternating first and second logic values during a third time interval, the second time interval being subsequent to the first time interval; determining an extinction ratio for the optical network unit based on the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions and the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; determining an average transmit power for the optical network unit based on the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions during a third time interval; and deciding whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the method further comprises:
transmitting a power test command from the optical line terminal to the optical network unit to initiate transmission of the sequence of optical power test transmissions. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the method further comprises:
computing, at the optical line terminal, an optical modulation amplitude for the optical network unit based on the extinction ratio and the average transmit power; and wherein the deciding decides whether the optical network unit is malfunctioning based on whether the optical modulation amplitude is between a minimum threshold value and a maximum threshold value. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
the first time interval is temporally spaced apart from the second time interval by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are subsequent to the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the second plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein
the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are prior to the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions; the third plurality of consecutive optical transmissions are temporally spaced apart from the first plurality of consecutive optical transmissions by a fourth time interval; and the method further includes receiving a NO POWER transmission at the optical line terminal during the fourth time interval. | 1,700 |
341,362 | 16,801,651 | 1,771 | A radial fan half-spiral housing has a pressure chamber extending in the circumferential direction about an axial intake opening (5) to a radial blow-out opening (31). The pressure chamber, as viewed in the circumferential direction, is subdivided into at least one beginning portion (7), one central portion (8), and one blow-out portion. The intake opening (5) determines a central axis of rotation for a fan wheel. An averaged half-spiral housing radius, as viewed about the axis of rotation (11), varies in the beginning portion (7), the center portion (8), and the blow-out portion (9). It reaches a maximum in the blow-out portion (9). The center portion (8) of the half-spiral housing radius is reduced in a region determining a maximum height H(δ,z) of the half-spiral housing (1) compared to a logarithmic spiral radius (rlog). | 1. A half-spiral housing of a radial fan comprising:
a pressure chamber extending in the circumferential direction about an axial intake opening to a radial blow-out opening, the pressure chamber, viewed in the circumferential direction, is subdivided into at least one beginning portion, one central portion, and one blow-out portion; the intake opening determines a central axis of rotation for a fan wheel; an averaged half-spiral housing radius, viewed about the axis of rotation, varies in the beginning portion, the center portion, and the blow-out portion, and reaches a maximum in the blow-out portion; and in the center portion, the half-spiral housing radius is reduced in a region determining a maximum height H(δ,z) of the half-spiral housing compared to a logarithmic spiral radius (rlog). 2. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein an axial widening (A1, A2) of the pressure chamber occurs at least in the central portion, the axial widening (A1, A2) enlarges a flow cross-sectional surface of the pressure chamber by a value, which corresponds at least to a value where the flow cross-sectional surface of the pressure chamber is reduced due to the reduction of the central portion as compared to the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog). 3. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the half-spiral housing radius corresponds to the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog) at least at a transition, in the circumferential direction, between the beginning portion and the central portion as well as between the central portion and the blow-out portion. 4. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the half-spiral housing radius is reduced in an axial direction (z) in the central portion of the pressure chamber of the half-spiral housing. 5. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein a radial extension of the pressure chamber in the region of the central portion determining the maximum height H(δ,z) of the half-spiral housing is reduced from a first axial side of the half-spiral housing (1) to an opposite, second axial side of the half-spiral housing, and a radial pressure chamber wall extends in an angle range δ=1°-20°, particularly δ=3°-12°, tilted compared to the axis of rotation and/or compared to an axial plane extending parallel to the axis of rotation. 6. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the beginning portion as viewed in the circumferential direction, extends over an angle range of a =20°-110°, particularly of α=40°-75°, and the central portion extends over an angle range of β=30°-200°, particularly of β=120°-160°. 7. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the beginning portion and the blow-out portion have an extension in the circumferential direction along the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog). 8. The half-spiral housing according to claim 7, wherein transitions, as viewed in the circumferential direction, extend tangentially between the beginning portion and the central portion as well as between the central portion and the blow-out portion. 9. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the half-spiral housing is formed from two axial side parts. 10. The half-spiral housing according to claim 9, wherein one of the two side parts is reduced more extensively in the central portion in an axial direction opposite the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog) than the second side part. 11. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the intake opening has an inlet nozzle extending parallel to the axis of rotation, the flow cross-section of the inlet nozzle being reduced over its axial curve. 12. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein a flow cross-sectional surface is formed as an oval, ellipse, rectangle, or rectangle with rounded corners in the beginning portion and blow-out portion of the pressure chamber. 13. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein a blow-out surface of the half-spiral housing is formed by the blow-out portion and is shaped as a rectangle or rectangle with rounded corners. 14. The half-spiral housing according to claim 11, wherein a convexly shaped air-inlet grille is arranged at the intake opening or the inlet nozzle. | A radial fan half-spiral housing has a pressure chamber extending in the circumferential direction about an axial intake opening (5) to a radial blow-out opening (31). The pressure chamber, as viewed in the circumferential direction, is subdivided into at least one beginning portion (7), one central portion (8), and one blow-out portion. The intake opening (5) determines a central axis of rotation for a fan wheel. An averaged half-spiral housing radius, as viewed about the axis of rotation (11), varies in the beginning portion (7), the center portion (8), and the blow-out portion (9). It reaches a maximum in the blow-out portion (9). The center portion (8) of the half-spiral housing radius is reduced in a region determining a maximum height H(δ,z) of the half-spiral housing (1) compared to a logarithmic spiral radius (rlog).1. A half-spiral housing of a radial fan comprising:
a pressure chamber extending in the circumferential direction about an axial intake opening to a radial blow-out opening, the pressure chamber, viewed in the circumferential direction, is subdivided into at least one beginning portion, one central portion, and one blow-out portion; the intake opening determines a central axis of rotation for a fan wheel; an averaged half-spiral housing radius, viewed about the axis of rotation, varies in the beginning portion, the center portion, and the blow-out portion, and reaches a maximum in the blow-out portion; and in the center portion, the half-spiral housing radius is reduced in a region determining a maximum height H(δ,z) of the half-spiral housing compared to a logarithmic spiral radius (rlog). 2. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein an axial widening (A1, A2) of the pressure chamber occurs at least in the central portion, the axial widening (A1, A2) enlarges a flow cross-sectional surface of the pressure chamber by a value, which corresponds at least to a value where the flow cross-sectional surface of the pressure chamber is reduced due to the reduction of the central portion as compared to the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog). 3. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the half-spiral housing radius corresponds to the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog) at least at a transition, in the circumferential direction, between the beginning portion and the central portion as well as between the central portion and the blow-out portion. 4. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the half-spiral housing radius is reduced in an axial direction (z) in the central portion of the pressure chamber of the half-spiral housing. 5. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein a radial extension of the pressure chamber in the region of the central portion determining the maximum height H(δ,z) of the half-spiral housing is reduced from a first axial side of the half-spiral housing (1) to an opposite, second axial side of the half-spiral housing, and a radial pressure chamber wall extends in an angle range δ=1°-20°, particularly δ=3°-12°, tilted compared to the axis of rotation and/or compared to an axial plane extending parallel to the axis of rotation. 6. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the beginning portion as viewed in the circumferential direction, extends over an angle range of a =20°-110°, particularly of α=40°-75°, and the central portion extends over an angle range of β=30°-200°, particularly of β=120°-160°. 7. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the beginning portion and the blow-out portion have an extension in the circumferential direction along the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog). 8. The half-spiral housing according to claim 7, wherein transitions, as viewed in the circumferential direction, extend tangentially between the beginning portion and the central portion as well as between the central portion and the blow-out portion. 9. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the half-spiral housing is formed from two axial side parts. 10. The half-spiral housing according to claim 9, wherein one of the two side parts is reduced more extensively in the central portion in an axial direction opposite the logarithmic spiral radius (rlog) than the second side part. 11. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein the intake opening has an inlet nozzle extending parallel to the axis of rotation, the flow cross-section of the inlet nozzle being reduced over its axial curve. 12. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein a flow cross-sectional surface is formed as an oval, ellipse, rectangle, or rectangle with rounded corners in the beginning portion and blow-out portion of the pressure chamber. 13. The half-spiral housing according to claim 1, wherein a blow-out surface of the half-spiral housing is formed by the blow-out portion and is shaped as a rectangle or rectangle with rounded corners. 14. The half-spiral housing according to claim 11, wherein a convexly shaped air-inlet grille is arranged at the intake opening or the inlet nozzle. | 1,700 |
341,363 | 16,801,644 | 1,771 | A method is presented for amplifying extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography pattern transfer into a hardmask and preventing hard mask micro bridging effects due to resist residue in a semiconductor structure. The method includes forming a top hardmask over an organic planarization layer (OPL), depositing a photoresist over the top hardmask, patterning the photoresist using EUV lithography, performing ion implantation to create doped regions within the exposed top hardmask and regions of hardmask underneath resist residue, stripping the photoresist, and selectively etching the top hardmask by either employing positive tone or negative tone etch based on an implantation material. | 1. A method for amplifying extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography pattern transfer into a hardmask and preventing hard mask micro bridging effects due to resist residue in a semiconductor structure, the method comprising:
depositing a photoresist over a top hardmask; patterning the photoresist using EUV lithography; performing ion implantation to create doped regions within the exposed top hardmask and regions of hardmask underneath resist residue; stripping the photoresist; and selectively etching the top hardmask by either employing positive tone or negative tone etch based on an implantation material, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask etch to suppress healing of broken chemical bonds in the top hardmask. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein EUV exposure is conducted before the etching step. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein an ion implantation energy is selected to be high enough for ions to penetrate through the resist residue and into the top hardmask but low enough for the ions to be stopped in the photoresist. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask to enable a greater accumulation of implantation damage. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein lateral dopant spreading is offset without a need for EUV mask correction. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein an anneal is employed after the stripping of the photoresist for the negative tone hardmask etch. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein an anneal thermal budget is selected to prevent excessive diffusion of the implantation material in the top hardmask for the negative tone hardmask etch. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein, when the positive tone hardmask etch is employed, the OPL is patterned using remaining hardmask portions. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the OPL is etched to create openings extending to a bottom hardmask film. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein after the openings are defined, the EUV lithography pattern is transferred to a bottom hardmask. 11. A method for amplifying extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography pattern transfer into a hardmask and preventing hard mask micro bridging effects due to resist residue in a semiconductor structure, the method comprising:
implanting an implantation material into a top hardmask and through a photoresist; creating a plurality of modified regions within the exposed top hardmask and regions of hardmask underneath resist residue; stripping the photoresist; and selectively etching the top hardmask by either employing positive tone or negative tone based on the implantation material, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask etch to suppress healing of broken chemical bonds in the top hardmask. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the top hardmask is formed over an organic planarization layer (OPL). 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the implantation material includes at least one of silicon (Si) or argon (Ar). 14. The method of claim 11, wherein EUV exposure is conducted before the etching step. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein an ion implantation energy is selected to be high enough for ions to penetrate through the resist residue and into the top hardmask but low enough for the ions to be stopped in the photoresist. 16. The method of claim 11, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask to enable a greater accumulation of implantation damage. 17. The method of claim 11, wherein lateral dopant spreading is offset without a need for EUV mask correction. 18. The method of claim 12, wherein, when the positive tone is employed, the OPL is patterned using remaining hardmask portions. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein an etch is conducted to further extend the openings through the bottom hardmask film and wherein after the openings are defined, the EUV lithography pattern is transferred to the bottom hardmask film. 20. The method of claim 11, wherein an anneal is employed after the stripping of the photoresist for the negative tone hardmask etch and wherein an anneal thermal budget is selected to prevent excessive diffusion of the implantation material in the top hardmask for the negative tone hardmask etch. | A method is presented for amplifying extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography pattern transfer into a hardmask and preventing hard mask micro bridging effects due to resist residue in a semiconductor structure. The method includes forming a top hardmask over an organic planarization layer (OPL), depositing a photoresist over the top hardmask, patterning the photoresist using EUV lithography, performing ion implantation to create doped regions within the exposed top hardmask and regions of hardmask underneath resist residue, stripping the photoresist, and selectively etching the top hardmask by either employing positive tone or negative tone etch based on an implantation material.1. A method for amplifying extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography pattern transfer into a hardmask and preventing hard mask micro bridging effects due to resist residue in a semiconductor structure, the method comprising:
depositing a photoresist over a top hardmask; patterning the photoresist using EUV lithography; performing ion implantation to create doped regions within the exposed top hardmask and regions of hardmask underneath resist residue; stripping the photoresist; and selectively etching the top hardmask by either employing positive tone or negative tone etch based on an implantation material, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask etch to suppress healing of broken chemical bonds in the top hardmask. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein EUV exposure is conducted before the etching step. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein an ion implantation energy is selected to be high enough for ions to penetrate through the resist residue and into the top hardmask but low enough for the ions to be stopped in the photoresist. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask to enable a greater accumulation of implantation damage. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein lateral dopant spreading is offset without a need for EUV mask correction. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein an anneal is employed after the stripping of the photoresist for the negative tone hardmask etch. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein an anneal thermal budget is selected to prevent excessive diffusion of the implantation material in the top hardmask for the negative tone hardmask etch. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein, when the positive tone hardmask etch is employed, the OPL is patterned using remaining hardmask portions. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the OPL is etched to create openings extending to a bottom hardmask film. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein after the openings are defined, the EUV lithography pattern is transferred to a bottom hardmask. 11. A method for amplifying extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography pattern transfer into a hardmask and preventing hard mask micro bridging effects due to resist residue in a semiconductor structure, the method comprising:
implanting an implantation material into a top hardmask and through a photoresist; creating a plurality of modified regions within the exposed top hardmask and regions of hardmask underneath resist residue; stripping the photoresist; and selectively etching the top hardmask by either employing positive tone or negative tone based on the implantation material, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask etch to suppress healing of broken chemical bonds in the top hardmask. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the top hardmask is formed over an organic planarization layer (OPL). 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the implantation material includes at least one of silicon (Si) or argon (Ar). 14. The method of claim 11, wherein EUV exposure is conducted before the etching step. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein an ion implantation energy is selected to be high enough for ions to penetrate through the resist residue and into the top hardmask but low enough for the ions to be stopped in the photoresist. 16. The method of claim 11, wherein the ion implantation occurs below room temperature for the positive tone hardmask to enable a greater accumulation of implantation damage. 17. The method of claim 11, wherein lateral dopant spreading is offset without a need for EUV mask correction. 18. The method of claim 12, wherein, when the positive tone is employed, the OPL is patterned using remaining hardmask portions. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein an etch is conducted to further extend the openings through the bottom hardmask film and wherein after the openings are defined, the EUV lithography pattern is transferred to the bottom hardmask film. 20. The method of claim 11, wherein an anneal is employed after the stripping of the photoresist for the negative tone hardmask etch and wherein an anneal thermal budget is selected to prevent excessive diffusion of the implantation material in the top hardmask for the negative tone hardmask etch. | 1,700 |
341,364 | 16,801,699 | 1,771 | A substrate processing apparatus includes: a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part. | 1. A substrate processing apparatus comprising:
a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part. 2. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent so as to generate the processing liquid; and a nozzle configured to eject the processing liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder. 3. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mixing part includes:
a first mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid supplied from the chemical liquid supply part with the pure water supplied from the pure water supply part so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; and a second mixing part configured to mix the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated in the first mixing part with the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part so as to generate the processing liquid, and wherein the nozzle ejects the processing liquid generated by the second mixing part. 4. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid and the pure water so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; a first nozzle configured to eject the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder; and a second nozzle configured to eject the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part to the substrate held by the substrate holder, and wherein the processing liquid is generated by mixing the pure water-diluted chemical liquid with the low-dielectric constant solvent on the substrate. 5. A method of processing a substrate, comprising:
etching a film formed on the substrate by supplying the substrate with a processing liquid obtained by mixing a chemical liquid, pure water, and a low-dielectric constant solvent; and supplying a rinsing liquid to the substrate, after the etching. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent are mixed, and subsequently, ejected from a nozzle to the substrate as the processing liquid. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, a pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by mixing the chemical liquid and the pure water and the low-dielectric constant solvent are respectively ejected from different nozzles to the substrate, and are mixed on the substrate to generate the processing liquid. 9. The method of claim 5, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. | A substrate processing apparatus includes: a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part.1. A substrate processing apparatus comprising:
a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part. 2. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent so as to generate the processing liquid; and a nozzle configured to eject the processing liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder. 3. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mixing part includes:
a first mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid supplied from the chemical liquid supply part with the pure water supplied from the pure water supply part so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; and a second mixing part configured to mix the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated in the first mixing part with the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part so as to generate the processing liquid, and wherein the nozzle ejects the processing liquid generated by the second mixing part. 4. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid and the pure water so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; a first nozzle configured to eject the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder; and a second nozzle configured to eject the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part to the substrate held by the substrate holder, and wherein the processing liquid is generated by mixing the pure water-diluted chemical liquid with the low-dielectric constant solvent on the substrate. 5. A method of processing a substrate, comprising:
etching a film formed on the substrate by supplying the substrate with a processing liquid obtained by mixing a chemical liquid, pure water, and a low-dielectric constant solvent; and supplying a rinsing liquid to the substrate, after the etching. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent are mixed, and subsequently, ejected from a nozzle to the substrate as the processing liquid. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, a pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by mixing the chemical liquid and the pure water and the low-dielectric constant solvent are respectively ejected from different nozzles to the substrate, and are mixed on the substrate to generate the processing liquid. 9. The method of claim 5, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. | 1,700 |
341,365 | 16,801,662 | 1,771 | A substrate processing apparatus includes: a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part. | 1. A substrate processing apparatus comprising:
a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part. 2. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent so as to generate the processing liquid; and a nozzle configured to eject the processing liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder. 3. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mixing part includes:
a first mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid supplied from the chemical liquid supply part with the pure water supplied from the pure water supply part so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; and a second mixing part configured to mix the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated in the first mixing part with the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part so as to generate the processing liquid, and wherein the nozzle ejects the processing liquid generated by the second mixing part. 4. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid and the pure water so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; a first nozzle configured to eject the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder; and a second nozzle configured to eject the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part to the substrate held by the substrate holder, and wherein the processing liquid is generated by mixing the pure water-diluted chemical liquid with the low-dielectric constant solvent on the substrate. 5. A method of processing a substrate, comprising:
etching a film formed on the substrate by supplying the substrate with a processing liquid obtained by mixing a chemical liquid, pure water, and a low-dielectric constant solvent; and supplying a rinsing liquid to the substrate, after the etching. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent are mixed, and subsequently, ejected from a nozzle to the substrate as the processing liquid. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, a pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by mixing the chemical liquid and the pure water and the low-dielectric constant solvent are respectively ejected from different nozzles to the substrate, and are mixed on the substrate to generate the processing liquid. 9. The method of claim 5, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. | A substrate processing apparatus includes: a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part.1. A substrate processing apparatus comprising:
a substrate holder configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply part configured to supply a processing liquid to the substrate held by the substrate holder; a chemical liquid supply part configured to supply a chemical liquid as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a pure water supply part configured to supply pure water as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; a low-dielectric constant solvent supply part configured to supply a low-dielectric constant solvent as a component of the processing liquid to the processing liquid supply part; and a controller configured to control a ratio of the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent contained in the processing liquid by controlling the chemical liquid supply part, the pure water supply part, the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part. 2. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent so as to generate the processing liquid; and a nozzle configured to eject the processing liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder. 3. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mixing part includes:
a first mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid supplied from the chemical liquid supply part with the pure water supplied from the pure water supply part so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; and a second mixing part configured to mix the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated in the first mixing part with the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part so as to generate the processing liquid, and wherein the nozzle ejects the processing liquid generated by the second mixing part. 4. The substrate processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing liquid supply part includes:
a mixing part configured to mix the chemical liquid and the pure water so as to generate a pure water-diluted chemical liquid; a first nozzle configured to eject the pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by the mixing part to the substrate held by the substrate holder; and a second nozzle configured to eject the low-dielectric constant solvent supplied from the low-dielectric constant solvent supply part to the substrate held by the substrate holder, and wherein the processing liquid is generated by mixing the pure water-diluted chemical liquid with the low-dielectric constant solvent on the substrate. 5. A method of processing a substrate, comprising:
etching a film formed on the substrate by supplying the substrate with a processing liquid obtained by mixing a chemical liquid, pure water, and a low-dielectric constant solvent; and supplying a rinsing liquid to the substrate, after the etching. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, the chemical liquid, the pure water, and the low-dielectric constant solvent are mixed, and subsequently, ejected from a nozzle to the substrate as the processing liquid. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein, in the etching, a pure water-diluted chemical liquid generated by mixing the chemical liquid and the pure water and the low-dielectric constant solvent are respectively ejected from different nozzles to the substrate, and are mixed on the substrate to generate the processing liquid. 9. The method of claim 5, further comprising: adjusting a content of the low-dielectric constant solvent in the processing liquid so as to adjust an etching rate of the film or an etching selectivity of the film relative to another film. | 1,700 |
341,366 | 16,801,679 | 1,771 | A handheld band saw includes a housing, a handle coupled to the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation, a motor supported by the housing, and a drive wheel assembly rotationally driven by the motor. The drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing. The band saw further includes a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly. The saw blade is configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation. The band saw further includes a pipe reamer attachment coupled to the drive wheel assembly. The pipe reamer attachment is configured to deburr the workpiece after completion of the cutting operation. | 1. A handheld band saw comprising:
a housing; a handle coupled to the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation; a motor supported by the housing; a drive wheel assembly rotationally driven by the motor, the drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing; a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly and configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation; and a pipe reamer attachment coupled to the drive wheel assembly, wherein the pipe reamer attachment is configured to deburr the workpiece after completion of the cutting operation. 2. The handheld band saw of claim 1, further comprising a battery removably coupled to the handle, wherein the battery, when coupled to the handle, is configured to provide power to the motor. 3. The handheld band saw of claim 2, further comprising a trigger disposed adjacent a gripping portion of the handle, wherein power from the battery is supplied to the motor when the trigger is actuated. 4. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the motor defines a rotational axis, and wherein the pipe reamer attachment is rotationally driven by the motor about the rotational axis. 5. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the pipe reamer attachment is removably coupled to the drive wheel assembly. 6. The handheld band saw of claim 5, further comprising a quick disconnect coupling that couples the pipe reamer attachment to the drive wheel assembly. 7. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the pipe reamer attachment is integrally formed with at least one component of the drive wheel assembly to form a single piece. 8. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the drive wheel assembly includes a drive wheel driven by the motor and a driven wheel driven by the drive wheel via the saw blade, and wherein the pipe reamer attachment is disposed on the drive wheel. 9. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the pipe reamer attachment includes an annular shroud and a blade for engaging the workpiece, and wherein the blade is disposed within the annular shroud. 10. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a deck and a guard coupled to the deck that cooperatively surround the saw blade in a shielded position, and wherein the deck and guard define a cut zone through which the saw blade passes in an exposed position to engage a workpiece. 11. A handheld band saw comprising:
a housing; a handle supported by the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation; a motor supported by the housing; a drive wheel assembly rotationally driven by the motor, the drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing; a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly and configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation; and a shoe coupled to the housing adjacent the saw blade, wherein the shoe is configured to support a workpiece during the cutting operation, and wherein the shoe includes
a slide mechanism for adjusting the shoe along a shoe axis that is perpendicular with the saw blade, and
a detent mechanism having a tooth that is selectively receivable in one of a plurality of notches for maintaining the shoe in a discrete position along the shoe axis,
wherein the tooth has a cam surface shaped to permit removal of the tooth from one of the plurality of notches when a force is applied to the shoe in the direction of the shoe axis, thereby causing the shoe to move along the shoe axis. 12. The handheld band saw of claim 11, further comprising a battery removably coupled to the handle, wherein the battery, when coupled to the handle, is configured to provide power to the motor. 13. The handheld band saw of claim 11, further comprising a trigger disposed adjacent a gripping portion of the handle, wherein power from the battery is supplied to the motor when the trigger is actuated. 14. The handheld band saw of claim 11, wherein the shoe is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position along the shoe axis, and wherein the shoe automatically retracts to the retracted position in response to a force applied to the shoe in the direction of the shoe axis that is sufficient to overcome a biasing force of the detent mechanism. 15. The handheld band saw of claim 11, wherein the slide mechanism further includes an actuator that is capable of moving the tooth between an extended position, in which the tooth is received within one of the plurality of notches, and a retracted position, in which the tooth is removed from one of the plurality of notches. 16. A handheld band saw, comprising:
a housing; a handle supported by the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation; a motor supported by the housing; a drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing; a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly and configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation; and a drive assembly positioned between the motor and the drive wheel assembly, wherein the drive assembly is configured to transfer torque from the motor to the drive wheel assembly, causing the drive wheel assembly and the saw blade to rotate, wherein the drive wheel assembly includes a wheel having a recess in which a portion of the drive assembly is received to shorten an overall length of the motor, drive assembly, and drive wheel assembly. 17. The handheld band saw of claim 16, wherein the wheel surrounds the portion of the drive assembly that is recessed within the recess. 18. The handheld band saw of claim 17, wherein the drive assembly includes a spindle to which the wheel is coupled for co-rotation and a bearing that rotatably supports the spindle, and wherein the bearing is at least partially received within the recess in the wheel. 19. The handheld band saw of claim 17, further comprising:
a bearing rotatably supporting a rotor of the motor; and a fan driven by the motor, wherein the fan includes a recess in which the bearing is at least partially received to shorten the overall length of the motor, drive assembly, and drive wheel assembly. 20. The handheld band saw of claim 19, wherein the overall length of the motor, drive assembly, and drive wheel assembly is no more than 2.5 inches. | A handheld band saw includes a housing, a handle coupled to the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation, a motor supported by the housing, and a drive wheel assembly rotationally driven by the motor. The drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing. The band saw further includes a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly. The saw blade is configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation. The band saw further includes a pipe reamer attachment coupled to the drive wheel assembly. The pipe reamer attachment is configured to deburr the workpiece after completion of the cutting operation.1. A handheld band saw comprising:
a housing; a handle coupled to the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation; a motor supported by the housing; a drive wheel assembly rotationally driven by the motor, the drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing; a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly and configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation; and a pipe reamer attachment coupled to the drive wheel assembly, wherein the pipe reamer attachment is configured to deburr the workpiece after completion of the cutting operation. 2. The handheld band saw of claim 1, further comprising a battery removably coupled to the handle, wherein the battery, when coupled to the handle, is configured to provide power to the motor. 3. The handheld band saw of claim 2, further comprising a trigger disposed adjacent a gripping portion of the handle, wherein power from the battery is supplied to the motor when the trigger is actuated. 4. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the motor defines a rotational axis, and wherein the pipe reamer attachment is rotationally driven by the motor about the rotational axis. 5. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the pipe reamer attachment is removably coupled to the drive wheel assembly. 6. The handheld band saw of claim 5, further comprising a quick disconnect coupling that couples the pipe reamer attachment to the drive wheel assembly. 7. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the pipe reamer attachment is integrally formed with at least one component of the drive wheel assembly to form a single piece. 8. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the drive wheel assembly includes a drive wheel driven by the motor and a driven wheel driven by the drive wheel via the saw blade, and wherein the pipe reamer attachment is disposed on the drive wheel. 9. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the pipe reamer attachment includes an annular shroud and a blade for engaging the workpiece, and wherein the blade is disposed within the annular shroud. 10. The handheld band saw of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a deck and a guard coupled to the deck that cooperatively surround the saw blade in a shielded position, and wherein the deck and guard define a cut zone through which the saw blade passes in an exposed position to engage a workpiece. 11. A handheld band saw comprising:
a housing; a handle supported by the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation; a motor supported by the housing; a drive wheel assembly rotationally driven by the motor, the drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing; a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly and configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation; and a shoe coupled to the housing adjacent the saw blade, wherein the shoe is configured to support a workpiece during the cutting operation, and wherein the shoe includes
a slide mechanism for adjusting the shoe along a shoe axis that is perpendicular with the saw blade, and
a detent mechanism having a tooth that is selectively receivable in one of a plurality of notches for maintaining the shoe in a discrete position along the shoe axis,
wherein the tooth has a cam surface shaped to permit removal of the tooth from one of the plurality of notches when a force is applied to the shoe in the direction of the shoe axis, thereby causing the shoe to move along the shoe axis. 12. The handheld band saw of claim 11, further comprising a battery removably coupled to the handle, wherein the battery, when coupled to the handle, is configured to provide power to the motor. 13. The handheld band saw of claim 11, further comprising a trigger disposed adjacent a gripping portion of the handle, wherein power from the battery is supplied to the motor when the trigger is actuated. 14. The handheld band saw of claim 11, wherein the shoe is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position along the shoe axis, and wherein the shoe automatically retracts to the retracted position in response to a force applied to the shoe in the direction of the shoe axis that is sufficient to overcome a biasing force of the detent mechanism. 15. The handheld band saw of claim 11, wherein the slide mechanism further includes an actuator that is capable of moving the tooth between an extended position, in which the tooth is received within one of the plurality of notches, and a retracted position, in which the tooth is removed from one of the plurality of notches. 16. A handheld band saw, comprising:
a housing; a handle supported by the housing and configured to be grasped by a user during a cutting operation; a motor supported by the housing; a drive wheel assembly at least partially disposed within the housing; a saw blade driven by the drive wheel assembly and configured to cut a workpiece during the cutting operation; and a drive assembly positioned between the motor and the drive wheel assembly, wherein the drive assembly is configured to transfer torque from the motor to the drive wheel assembly, causing the drive wheel assembly and the saw blade to rotate, wherein the drive wheel assembly includes a wheel having a recess in which a portion of the drive assembly is received to shorten an overall length of the motor, drive assembly, and drive wheel assembly. 17. The handheld band saw of claim 16, wherein the wheel surrounds the portion of the drive assembly that is recessed within the recess. 18. The handheld band saw of claim 17, wherein the drive assembly includes a spindle to which the wheel is coupled for co-rotation and a bearing that rotatably supports the spindle, and wherein the bearing is at least partially received within the recess in the wheel. 19. The handheld band saw of claim 17, further comprising:
a bearing rotatably supporting a rotor of the motor; and a fan driven by the motor, wherein the fan includes a recess in which the bearing is at least partially received to shorten the overall length of the motor, drive assembly, and drive wheel assembly. 20. The handheld band saw of claim 19, wherein the overall length of the motor, drive assembly, and drive wheel assembly is no more than 2.5 inches. | 1,700 |
341,367 | 16,801,716 | 1,771 | A control apparatus for a resonant converter that receives a direct current (DC) voltage of a bulk capacitor. The control apparatus includes a forced turn-off control circuit that receives a resonance current detection signal, which has been produced by shunting a resonance current flowing through the resonant converter and converting the shunted resonance current to a voltage, outputs a forced turn-off signal in response to the resonance current detection signal falling between a first variable threshold and a second variable threshold that is smaller than the first variable threshold, and varies the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold in accordance with an input voltage inputted to the forced turn-off control circuit by dividing the DC voltage of the bulk capacitor. | 1. A control apparatus for a resonant converter that receives a direct current (DC) voltage of a bulk capacitor, the control apparatus comprising:
a forced turn-off control circuit that
receives a resonance current detection signal, which has been produced by shunting a resonance current flowing through the resonant converter and converting the shunted resonance current to a voltage,
outputs a forced turn-off signal in response to the resonance current detection signal falling between a first variable threshold and a second variable threshold that is smaller than the first variable threshold, and
varies the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold in accordance with an input voltage inputted to the forced turn-off control circuit by dividing the DC voltage of the bulk capacitor. 2. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 1,
wherein in a predetermined range of variation of the input voltage, the forced turn-off control circuit
sets the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold respectively at a first resonance current value and at a second resonance current value, which has an opposite sign to the first resonance current value, responsive to the input voltage being equal to or higher than a specified voltage, and
sets the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold respectively at a first current value with a lower absolute value than the first resonance current value and at a second current value with a lower absolute value than the second resonance current value, responsive to the input voltage falling below the specified voltage. 3. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 2,
wherein the forced turn-off control circuit sets a range in which absolute values of the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold vary to a range in which the resonant converter is capable of maintaining a predetermined operation. 4. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 2,
wherein the forced turn-off control circuit receives a resonance voltage detection signal produced by detecting a resonance voltage of the resonant converter, and validates outputting of the forced turn-off signal in response to the resonance voltage detection signal exceeding a first fixed threshold during a fall of the resonance voltage detection signal or in response to the resonance voltage detection signal exceeding a second fixed threshold during a rise of the resonance voltage detection signal. 5. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 4,
wherein the resonant converter is a DC-DC converter having a half-bridge circuit, the half-bridge circuit including a low-side switching element and a high-side switching element; and wherein the forced turn-off control circuit includes:
a first comparator that compares the resonance voltage detection signal with the first fixed threshold;
a second comparator that compares the resonance voltage detection signal with the second fixed threshold;
a first delay (D) flip-flop that latches a high-level signal upon receipt of an output of the first comparator at a clock input of the first D flip-flop, and is reset by receiving a low-side driving signal that drives the low-side switching element of the half-bridge circuit;
a second D flip-flop that latches a high-level signal upon receipt of an output of the second comparator at a clock input of the second D flip-flop, and is reset by receiving a high-side driving signal that drives the high-side switching element of the half-bridge circuit;
a first reset-set (RS) flip-flop having a set input, a first reset input and a second reset input, the first RS flip-flop receiving an output of the first D flip-flop at the set input thereof and receives the low-side driving signal at the first reset input thereof;
a second RS flip-flop having a set input, a first reset input and a second reset input, the second RS flip-flop receiving an output of the second D flip-flop at the set input thereof and receives the high-side driving signal at the first reset input thereof;
an OR circuit that receives an output of the first RS flip-flop and an output of the second RS flip-flop, and outputs the forced turn-off signal;
an analog-to-digital converter that converts a signal obtained by dividing the input voltage to a digital signal;
a calculation unit that receives an output of the analog-to-digital converter and calculates a high-side threshold and a low-side threshold in accordance with the input voltage;
a third comparator that compares the resonance current detection signal with the high-side threshold and that has an output connected to the second reset input of the first RS flip-flop; and
a fourth comparator that compares the resonance current detection signal with the low-side threshold and that has an output connected to the second reset input of the second RS flip-flop. 6. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 1, further comprising a voltage detecting resistor and a level shift circuit, wherein
the resonance current detection signal is produced by passing a current, which is produced by shunting the resonance current flowing in the resonant converter, through the voltage detecting resistor and causing the level shift circuit to level-shift a voltage generated by the voltage detecting resistor. 7. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 6,
wherein the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold respectively correspond to values obtained by the level shift circuit level-shifting currents having a same absolute value but opposite signs. | A control apparatus for a resonant converter that receives a direct current (DC) voltage of a bulk capacitor. The control apparatus includes a forced turn-off control circuit that receives a resonance current detection signal, which has been produced by shunting a resonance current flowing through the resonant converter and converting the shunted resonance current to a voltage, outputs a forced turn-off signal in response to the resonance current detection signal falling between a first variable threshold and a second variable threshold that is smaller than the first variable threshold, and varies the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold in accordance with an input voltage inputted to the forced turn-off control circuit by dividing the DC voltage of the bulk capacitor.1. A control apparatus for a resonant converter that receives a direct current (DC) voltage of a bulk capacitor, the control apparatus comprising:
a forced turn-off control circuit that
receives a resonance current detection signal, which has been produced by shunting a resonance current flowing through the resonant converter and converting the shunted resonance current to a voltage,
outputs a forced turn-off signal in response to the resonance current detection signal falling between a first variable threshold and a second variable threshold that is smaller than the first variable threshold, and
varies the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold in accordance with an input voltage inputted to the forced turn-off control circuit by dividing the DC voltage of the bulk capacitor. 2. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 1,
wherein in a predetermined range of variation of the input voltage, the forced turn-off control circuit
sets the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold respectively at a first resonance current value and at a second resonance current value, which has an opposite sign to the first resonance current value, responsive to the input voltage being equal to or higher than a specified voltage, and
sets the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold respectively at a first current value with a lower absolute value than the first resonance current value and at a second current value with a lower absolute value than the second resonance current value, responsive to the input voltage falling below the specified voltage. 3. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 2,
wherein the forced turn-off control circuit sets a range in which absolute values of the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold vary to a range in which the resonant converter is capable of maintaining a predetermined operation. 4. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 2,
wherein the forced turn-off control circuit receives a resonance voltage detection signal produced by detecting a resonance voltage of the resonant converter, and validates outputting of the forced turn-off signal in response to the resonance voltage detection signal exceeding a first fixed threshold during a fall of the resonance voltage detection signal or in response to the resonance voltage detection signal exceeding a second fixed threshold during a rise of the resonance voltage detection signal. 5. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 4,
wherein the resonant converter is a DC-DC converter having a half-bridge circuit, the half-bridge circuit including a low-side switching element and a high-side switching element; and wherein the forced turn-off control circuit includes:
a first comparator that compares the resonance voltage detection signal with the first fixed threshold;
a second comparator that compares the resonance voltage detection signal with the second fixed threshold;
a first delay (D) flip-flop that latches a high-level signal upon receipt of an output of the first comparator at a clock input of the first D flip-flop, and is reset by receiving a low-side driving signal that drives the low-side switching element of the half-bridge circuit;
a second D flip-flop that latches a high-level signal upon receipt of an output of the second comparator at a clock input of the second D flip-flop, and is reset by receiving a high-side driving signal that drives the high-side switching element of the half-bridge circuit;
a first reset-set (RS) flip-flop having a set input, a first reset input and a second reset input, the first RS flip-flop receiving an output of the first D flip-flop at the set input thereof and receives the low-side driving signal at the first reset input thereof;
a second RS flip-flop having a set input, a first reset input and a second reset input, the second RS flip-flop receiving an output of the second D flip-flop at the set input thereof and receives the high-side driving signal at the first reset input thereof;
an OR circuit that receives an output of the first RS flip-flop and an output of the second RS flip-flop, and outputs the forced turn-off signal;
an analog-to-digital converter that converts a signal obtained by dividing the input voltage to a digital signal;
a calculation unit that receives an output of the analog-to-digital converter and calculates a high-side threshold and a low-side threshold in accordance with the input voltage;
a third comparator that compares the resonance current detection signal with the high-side threshold and that has an output connected to the second reset input of the first RS flip-flop; and
a fourth comparator that compares the resonance current detection signal with the low-side threshold and that has an output connected to the second reset input of the second RS flip-flop. 6. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 1, further comprising a voltage detecting resistor and a level shift circuit, wherein
the resonance current detection signal is produced by passing a current, which is produced by shunting the resonance current flowing in the resonant converter, through the voltage detecting resistor and causing the level shift circuit to level-shift a voltage generated by the voltage detecting resistor. 7. The control apparatus for the resonant converter according to claim 6,
wherein the first variable threshold and the second variable threshold respectively correspond to values obtained by the level shift circuit level-shifting currents having a same absolute value but opposite signs. | 1,700 |
341,368 | 16,801,700 | 1,771 | Disclosed is an electronic apparatus. The electronic apparatus includes a processor configured to downscale an image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model and to encode a downscaled image, and the processor is configured to control downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model, and the second AI model may be trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model. | 1. An electronic apparatus comprising:
a processor configured to downscale an image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model and to encode the downscaled image, wherein the processor is configured to:
control downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model, and
wherein the second AI model is trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model. 2. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to control encoding of the downscaled image based on quality information of the image obtained using the second AI model. 3. The electronic apparatus of claim 2, wherein the quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of resolution information and bitrate information related to the image,
wherein the processor is configured to:
determine a downscaling ratio of the image and a bitrate of the downscaled image based on resolution information and bitrate information corresponding to any of the plurality of quality indicators, and
control downscaling of the image based on the determined downscaling ratio, and control encoding of the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate. 4. The electronic apparatus of claim 2, further comprising:
a communication interface comprising communication circuitry, wherein the processor is configured to obtain state information of a network to which the communication interface is connected, and to control downscaling of the image based on the state information of the network and quality information of the image. 5. The electronic apparatus of claim 4, wherein quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to the image,
wherein the processor is configured to:
determine at least one quality indicator among the plurality of quality indicators based on the state information of network, determine one quality indicator among the at least one quality indicator based on a target quality indicator,
control downscaling of the image based on resolution information corresponding to the determined one quality indicator and control encoding of the downscaled image based on information on the bitrate corresponding to the determined one quality indicator. 6. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second AI model comprises at least one neural network layer, and
wherein a parameter of the at least one neural network layer is trained jointly with a parameter of at least some layers included in the first AI model. 7. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to control downscaling of the current frame based on quality information obtained based on a current frame of the image, or to control downscaling of the current frame based on quality information predicted based on at least one previous frame of the image. 8. The electronic apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second AI model comprises at least one recurrent neural networks (RNN) layer trained to predict quality information of the current frame based on feature information corresponding to at least one previous frame. 9. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to the image, and
wherein the second AI model is trained based on supervised training with a difference between a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to a training image and a plurality of quality indicators output by inputting the training image into the second AI model as a loss function. 10. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to:
determine a downscaling ratio of the image and a bitrate of the downscaled image based on quality information of the image, downscale the image based on the determined downscaling ratio and encode the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate, generate a packet based on the encoded image and transmit the generated packet, and wherein the resolution information and the bitrate information are included in a header of the packet. 11-13. (canceled) 14. A method for controlling an electronic apparatus, the method comprising:
downscaling an image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model; and encoding the downscaled image, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model, and wherein the second AI model is trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on quality information of the image obtained using the second AI model. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of resolution information and bitrate information related to the image,
wherein the downscaling the image comprises determining a downscaling ratio of the image based on any one of the plurality of quality indicators and controlling downscaling of the image based on the determined downscaling ratio, and wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises determining bitrate of the downscaled image based on the any one of the quality indicators and controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate. 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising:
obtaining state information of a network, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the image based on state information of the network and quality information of the image, and wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on the state information of the network and quality information of the image. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to the image, and further comprises:
determining at least one quality indicator among the plurality of quality indicators based on the state information of network and determining any one quality indicator among the at least one quality indicator based on a target quality indicator, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the image based on resolution information corresponding to the determined any one quality indicator, and wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on information on the bitrate corresponding to the determined any one quality indicator. 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the second AI model comprises at least one neural network layer, and
wherein a parameter of the at least one neural network layer is trained jointly with parameter of at least some layers included in the first AI model. 20. The method of claim 14, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the current frame based on quality information obtained based on a current frame of the image, or controlling downscaling of the current frame based on quality information predicted based on at least one previous frame of the image. 21. An electronic apparatus comprising:
a communication interface comprising communication circuitry; and a processor configured to:
downscale an image; and
encode the downscaled image,
wherein the processor is further configured to:
control downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image,
downscale the image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model,
control the downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model and state information of a network to which the communication interface is connected,
encode the downscaled image based on the quality information of the image obtained using the second AI model, and
wherein the second AI model is trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model to obtain the quality information of the image, wherein the quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of resolution information and bitrate information related to the image, wherein the processor is further configured to:
determine a downscaling ratio of the image and a bitrate of the downscaled image based on resolution information and bitrate information corresponding to any of the plurality of quality indicators, and
control downscaling of the image based on the determined downscaling ratio, and control encoding of the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate. | Disclosed is an electronic apparatus. The electronic apparatus includes a processor configured to downscale an image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model and to encode a downscaled image, and the processor is configured to control downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model, and the second AI model may be trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model.1. An electronic apparatus comprising:
a processor configured to downscale an image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model and to encode the downscaled image, wherein the processor is configured to:
control downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model, and
wherein the second AI model is trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model. 2. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to control encoding of the downscaled image based on quality information of the image obtained using the second AI model. 3. The electronic apparatus of claim 2, wherein the quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of resolution information and bitrate information related to the image,
wherein the processor is configured to:
determine a downscaling ratio of the image and a bitrate of the downscaled image based on resolution information and bitrate information corresponding to any of the plurality of quality indicators, and
control downscaling of the image based on the determined downscaling ratio, and control encoding of the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate. 4. The electronic apparatus of claim 2, further comprising:
a communication interface comprising communication circuitry, wherein the processor is configured to obtain state information of a network to which the communication interface is connected, and to control downscaling of the image based on the state information of the network and quality information of the image. 5. The electronic apparatus of claim 4, wherein quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to the image,
wherein the processor is configured to:
determine at least one quality indicator among the plurality of quality indicators based on the state information of network, determine one quality indicator among the at least one quality indicator based on a target quality indicator,
control downscaling of the image based on resolution information corresponding to the determined one quality indicator and control encoding of the downscaled image based on information on the bitrate corresponding to the determined one quality indicator. 6. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second AI model comprises at least one neural network layer, and
wherein a parameter of the at least one neural network layer is trained jointly with a parameter of at least some layers included in the first AI model. 7. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to control downscaling of the current frame based on quality information obtained based on a current frame of the image, or to control downscaling of the current frame based on quality information predicted based on at least one previous frame of the image. 8. The electronic apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second AI model comprises at least one recurrent neural networks (RNN) layer trained to predict quality information of the current frame based on feature information corresponding to at least one previous frame. 9. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to the image, and
wherein the second AI model is trained based on supervised training with a difference between a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to a training image and a plurality of quality indicators output by inputting the training image into the second AI model as a loss function. 10. The electronic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to:
determine a downscaling ratio of the image and a bitrate of the downscaled image based on quality information of the image, downscale the image based on the determined downscaling ratio and encode the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate, generate a packet based on the encoded image and transmit the generated packet, and wherein the resolution information and the bitrate information are included in a header of the packet. 11-13. (canceled) 14. A method for controlling an electronic apparatus, the method comprising:
downscaling an image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model; and encoding the downscaled image, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model, and wherein the second AI model is trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on quality information of the image obtained using the second AI model. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of resolution information and bitrate information related to the image,
wherein the downscaling the image comprises determining a downscaling ratio of the image based on any one of the plurality of quality indicators and controlling downscaling of the image based on the determined downscaling ratio, and wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises determining bitrate of the downscaled image based on the any one of the quality indicators and controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate. 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising:
obtaining state information of a network, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the image based on state information of the network and quality information of the image, and wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on the state information of the network and quality information of the image. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of information on a plurality of resolutions and information on a plurality of bitrates related to the image, and further comprises:
determining at least one quality indicator among the plurality of quality indicators based on the state information of network and determining any one quality indicator among the at least one quality indicator based on a target quality indicator, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the image based on resolution information corresponding to the determined any one quality indicator, and wherein the encoding the downscaled image comprises controlling encoding of the downscaled image based on information on the bitrate corresponding to the determined any one quality indicator. 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the second AI model comprises at least one neural network layer, and
wherein a parameter of the at least one neural network layer is trained jointly with parameter of at least some layers included in the first AI model. 20. The method of claim 14, wherein the downscaling the image comprises controlling downscaling of the current frame based on quality information obtained based on a current frame of the image, or controlling downscaling of the current frame based on quality information predicted based on at least one previous frame of the image. 21. An electronic apparatus comprising:
a communication interface comprising communication circuitry; and a processor configured to:
downscale an image; and
encode the downscaled image,
wherein the processor is further configured to:
control downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image,
downscale the image using a trained first artificial intelligence (AI) model,
control the downscaling of the image based on quality information of the image obtained using a trained second AI model and state information of a network to which the communication interface is connected,
encode the downscaled image based on the quality information of the image obtained using the second AI model, and
wherein the second AI model is trained using feature information of the image obtained from the first AI model to obtain the quality information of the image, wherein the quality information of the image comprises a plurality of quality indicators corresponding to different combinations of resolution information and bitrate information related to the image, wherein the processor is further configured to:
determine a downscaling ratio of the image and a bitrate of the downscaled image based on resolution information and bitrate information corresponding to any of the plurality of quality indicators, and
control downscaling of the image based on the determined downscaling ratio, and control encoding of the downscaled image based on the determined bitrate. | 1,700 |
341,369 | 16,801,721 | 1,771 | Systems and devices are provided for push-on or blind-mate connectors that maintain the advantages of using push-on connectors over threaded connectors (e.g., linear engagement with a simple push) but increase the effective contact retention by a significant margin under typical conditions. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure provide push-on connectors that use a shielding layer that protects the engaged male and female components of the connector and prevents an engaged push-on connector from coming apart when force is applied to the connector or cable. | 1. A radio frequency (RF) cable configured to be coupled with a push-on connector, the RF cable comprising:
a male interface coupled to a first portion of the RF cable; a female interface coupled to a second portion of the RF cable, wherein the female interface is configured to engage with the male interface; and shielding coupled to the male interface, wherein the shielding is configured to cover the male interface and the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 2. The RF cable of claim 1, wherein the shielding is applied over the male interface. 3. The RF cable of claim 1, wherein the shielding extends from the male interface. 4. The RF cable of claim 1, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding; and a plurality of ridges extending from the female interface, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to slide into the plurality of contact areas when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 5. The RF cable of claim 4, wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 6. The RF cable of claim 1, further comprising:
a retention groove etched into the female interface; and a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into the retention groove when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 7. The RF cable of claim 1, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding; a plurality of ridges extending from the female interface, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to slide into the plurality of contact areas when the female interface is engaged with the male interface; a retention groove etched into the female interface; and a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into the retention groove when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 8. A male component of a push-on connector, comprising:
a male interface configured to engage with a female interface; and shielding coupled to the male interface, wherein the shielding is configured to cover the male interface and the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface. 9. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, wherein the shielding is applied over the male interface. 10. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, wherein the shielding extends from the male interface. 11. (canceled) 12. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding, wherein the plurality of contact areas are configured to couple with a plurality of ridges of the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface, wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 13. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into a retention groove etched into the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 14. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding, wherein the plurality of contact areas are configured to couple with a plurality of ridges of the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface; and a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into a retention groove etched into the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 15. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide over an edge of a housing of the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 16. A female component of a push-on connector, comprising:
a female interface configured to engage with a male interface; and shielding coupled to the female interface, wherein the shielding is configured to cover the male interface and the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface. 17. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, wherein the shielding is applied over the female interface. 18. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, wherein the shielding extends from the female interface. 19. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, further comprising:
a plurality of ridges, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to couple with a plurality of contact areas of the male interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface, and wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 20. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 16, further comprising:
a retention groove etched into a housing of the female interface, wherein the retention groove is configured to couple with a plurality of fingers of the male interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 21. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, further comprising:
a plurality of ridges, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to couple with a plurality of contact areas of the male interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface, and wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface; and a retention groove etched into a housing of the female interface, wherein the retention groove is configured to couple with a plurality of fingers of the male interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. | Systems and devices are provided for push-on or blind-mate connectors that maintain the advantages of using push-on connectors over threaded connectors (e.g., linear engagement with a simple push) but increase the effective contact retention by a significant margin under typical conditions. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure provide push-on connectors that use a shielding layer that protects the engaged male and female components of the connector and prevents an engaged push-on connector from coming apart when force is applied to the connector or cable.1. A radio frequency (RF) cable configured to be coupled with a push-on connector, the RF cable comprising:
a male interface coupled to a first portion of the RF cable; a female interface coupled to a second portion of the RF cable, wherein the female interface is configured to engage with the male interface; and shielding coupled to the male interface, wherein the shielding is configured to cover the male interface and the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 2. The RF cable of claim 1, wherein the shielding is applied over the male interface. 3. The RF cable of claim 1, wherein the shielding extends from the male interface. 4. The RF cable of claim 1, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding; and a plurality of ridges extending from the female interface, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to slide into the plurality of contact areas when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 5. The RF cable of claim 4, wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 6. The RF cable of claim 1, further comprising:
a retention groove etched into the female interface; and a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into the retention groove when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 7. The RF cable of claim 1, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding; a plurality of ridges extending from the female interface, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to slide into the plurality of contact areas when the female interface is engaged with the male interface; a retention groove etched into the female interface; and a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into the retention groove when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 8. A male component of a push-on connector, comprising:
a male interface configured to engage with a female interface; and shielding coupled to the male interface, wherein the shielding is configured to cover the male interface and the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface. 9. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, wherein the shielding is applied over the male interface. 10. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, wherein the shielding extends from the male interface. 11. (canceled) 12. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding, wherein the plurality of contact areas are configured to couple with a plurality of ridges of the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface, wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 13. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into a retention groove etched into the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 14. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of contact areas etched into the shielding, wherein the plurality of contact areas are configured to couple with a plurality of ridges of the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface; and a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide into a retention groove etched into the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 15. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of fingers extending from the shielding, wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to slide over an edge of a housing of the female interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 16. A female component of a push-on connector, comprising:
a female interface configured to engage with a male interface; and shielding coupled to the female interface, wherein the shielding is configured to cover the male interface and the female interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface. 17. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, wherein the shielding is applied over the female interface. 18. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, wherein the shielding extends from the female interface. 19. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, further comprising:
a plurality of ridges, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to couple with a plurality of contact areas of the male interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface, and wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 20. The male component of the push-on connector of claim 16, further comprising:
a retention groove etched into a housing of the female interface, wherein the retention groove is configured to couple with a plurality of fingers of the male interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. 21. The female component of the push-on connector of claim 16, further comprising:
a plurality of ridges, wherein the plurality of ridges are configured to couple with a plurality of contact areas of the male interface when the male interface is engaged with the female interface, and wherein an outer contact area of the plurality of contact areas is configured to cover an outer ridge of the plurality of ridges when the female interface is engaged with the male interface, thereby enabling the male interface and the female interface to be covered by the shielding when the female interface is engaged with the male interface; and a retention groove etched into a housing of the female interface, wherein the retention groove is configured to couple with a plurality of fingers of the male interface when the female interface is engaged with the male interface. | 1,700 |
341,370 | 16,801,692 | 1,771 | A vehicle airbag device includes: an inflator configured to generate gas when a first squib and a second squib are fired, respectively; an airbag including a main bag portion configured to inflate and deploy between an occupant seated in a passenger seat and an instrument panel and between the occupant and a windshield when the gas generated by the inflator is supplied into the airbag, and a center bag portion configured to project between the passenger seat and a driver seat from the main bag portion; and a controlling portion configured to control the inflator such that, when a head-on collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired, and when an oblique collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs. | 1. A vehicle airbag device comprising:
an inflator including a first squib and a second squib, the inflator being configured to generate gas when the first squib and the second squib are fired, respectively; an airbag including
a main bag portion configured to inflate and deploy between an occupant seated in a passenger seat and an instrument panel and between the occupant and a windshield when the gas generated by the inflator is supplied into the main bag portion, and be placed in front of the occupant seated in the passenger seat in a state where the main bag portion inflates and deploys, and
a center bag portion configured to project between the passenger seat and a driver seat from the main bag portion; and
a controlling portion configured to control the inflator such that, when a head-on collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired, and when an oblique collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs. 2. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the controlling portion configured to control a timing to fire the second squib in accordance with build of the occupant seated in the passenger seat. 3. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 2, wherein, the controlling portion is configured such that, when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, the controlling portion controls the inflator such that the second squib is fired at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AM50 dummy or an occupant larger than the AM50 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, wherein the AF05 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build, and the AM50 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 50-percentile adult male in build. 4. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 2, wherein the controlling portion configured to control the inflator such that a timing to fire the second squib when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat is the same as a timing to fire the second squib when the oblique collision occurs, the AF05 dummy being a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build. 5. A control method for the vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, the control method comprising, when the oblique collision occurs, firing the second squib after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs. 6. The control method according to claim 5, wherein a timing to fire the second squib is controlled in accordance with build of the occupant seated in the passenger seat. 7. The control method according to claim 6, wherein, when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, the second squib is fired at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AM50 dummy or an occupant larger than the AM50 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, wherein the AF05 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build, and the AM50 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 50-percentile adult male in build. 8. The control method according to claim 6, wherein a timing to fire the second squib when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat is the same as a timing to fire the second squib when the oblique collision occurs, the AF05 dummy being a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build. 9. A non-transitory storage medium storing instructions that are executable by one or more processors and that cause one or more processors to perform a function of controlling the vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, the function comprising, when the oblique collision occurs, firing the second squib after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs. | A vehicle airbag device includes: an inflator configured to generate gas when a first squib and a second squib are fired, respectively; an airbag including a main bag portion configured to inflate and deploy between an occupant seated in a passenger seat and an instrument panel and between the occupant and a windshield when the gas generated by the inflator is supplied into the airbag, and a center bag portion configured to project between the passenger seat and a driver seat from the main bag portion; and a controlling portion configured to control the inflator such that, when a head-on collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired, and when an oblique collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs.1. A vehicle airbag device comprising:
an inflator including a first squib and a second squib, the inflator being configured to generate gas when the first squib and the second squib are fired, respectively; an airbag including
a main bag portion configured to inflate and deploy between an occupant seated in a passenger seat and an instrument panel and between the occupant and a windshield when the gas generated by the inflator is supplied into the main bag portion, and be placed in front of the occupant seated in the passenger seat in a state where the main bag portion inflates and deploys, and
a center bag portion configured to project between the passenger seat and a driver seat from the main bag portion; and
a controlling portion configured to control the inflator such that, when a head-on collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired, and when an oblique collision occurs, the second squib is fired after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs. 2. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the controlling portion configured to control a timing to fire the second squib in accordance with build of the occupant seated in the passenger seat. 3. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 2, wherein, the controlling portion is configured such that, when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, the controlling portion controls the inflator such that the second squib is fired at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AM50 dummy or an occupant larger than the AM50 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, wherein the AF05 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build, and the AM50 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 50-percentile adult male in build. 4. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 2, wherein the controlling portion configured to control the inflator such that a timing to fire the second squib when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat is the same as a timing to fire the second squib when the oblique collision occurs, the AF05 dummy being a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build. 5. A control method for the vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, the control method comprising, when the oblique collision occurs, firing the second squib after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs. 6. The control method according to claim 5, wherein a timing to fire the second squib is controlled in accordance with build of the occupant seated in the passenger seat. 7. The control method according to claim 6, wherein, when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, the second squib is fired at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AM50 dummy or an occupant larger than the AM50 dummy is seated in the passenger seat, wherein the AF05 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build, and the AM50 dummy is a dummy for impact test for an American 50-percentile adult male in build. 8. The control method according to claim 6, wherein a timing to fire the second squib when the head-on collision occurs in a state where an occupant corresponding to an AF05 dummy or an occupant smaller than the AF05 dummy is seated in the passenger seat is the same as a timing to fire the second squib when the oblique collision occurs, the AF05 dummy being a dummy for impact test for an American 5-percentile adult female in build. 9. A non-transitory storage medium storing instructions that are executable by one or more processors and that cause one or more processors to perform a function of controlling the vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, the function comprising, when the oblique collision occurs, firing the second squib after the first squib is fired and at a timing earlier than that when the head-on collision occurs. | 1,700 |
341,371 | 16,801,709 | 1,771 | A fluid dispenser having a first fluid outlet for dispensing fluid when in a first orientation and a second fluid outlet for dispensing fluid when in a second orientation. An outlet valve mechanism directs the fluid towards the first fluid outlet in the first orientation, and towards the second fluid outlet when in the second orientation. The outlet valve mechanism includes a movable outlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation. | 1. A fluid dispenser comprising:
a fluid reservoir containing a fluid to be dispensed; a first fluid outlet for dispensing the fluid when the fluid dispenser is in a first orientation; a second fluid outlet for dispensing the fluid when the fluid dispenser is in a second orientation; an outlet valve mechanism for directing the fluid towards the first fluid outlet when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and towards the second fluid outlet when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; and a pump mechanism that, when activated, forces an allotment of the fluid through the outlet valve mechanism to be discharged from either the first fluid outlet or the second fluid outlet; wherein the outlet valve mechanism comprises a movable outlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the movable outlet member moves from the first position to the second position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the first orientation to the second orientation; wherein the movable outlet member moves from the second position to the first position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the second orientation to the first orientation; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position, the outlet valve mechanism allows the fluid to pass through the outlet valve mechanism towards the first fluid outlet, and prevents the fluid from passing through the outlet valve mechanism towards the second fluid outlet; and wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position, the outlet valve mechanism allows the fluid to pass through the outlet valve mechanism towards the second fluid outlet, and prevents the fluid from passing through the outlet valve mechanism towards the first fluid outlet. 2. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the movable outlet member is movably disposed within an outlet valve chamber, the outlet valve chamber having an inlet opening, a first outlet opening, and a second outlet opening;
wherein the inlet opening is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism for receiving the fluid upon activation of the pump mechanism; wherein the first outlet opening is in fluid communication with the first fluid outlet; wherein the second outlet opening is in fluid communication with the second fluid outlet; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the second outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the second fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the first outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the first outlet opening; and wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the first outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the first fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the second outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the second outlet opening. 3. The fluid dispenser according to claim 2, wherein the movable outlet member comprises an outlet ball;
wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the outlet ball is at the first position: (i) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the second outlet opening; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the outlet ball is at the second position: (i) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the second outlet opening. 4. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first inlet valve mechanism for delivering the fluid from the fluid reservoir to the pump mechanism when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation; and a second inlet valve mechanism for delivering the fluid from the fluid reservoir to the pump mechanism when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the first inlet valve mechanism comprises a first movable inlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the first movable inlet member moves from the first position to the second position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the first orientation to the second orientation; wherein the first movable inlet member moves from the second position to the first position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the second orientation to the first orientation; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the first position, the first inlet valve mechanism allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the second position, the first inlet valve mechanism prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism; wherein the second inlet valve mechanism comprises a second movable inlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the second movable inlet member moves from the first position to the second position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the first orientation to the second orientation; wherein the second movable inlet member moves from the second position to the first position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the second orientation to the first orientation; wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the first position, the second inlet valve mechanism prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism; and wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the second position, the second inlet valve mechanism allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism. 5. The fluid dispenser according to claim 4, wherein the first movable inlet member is movably disposed within a first inlet valve chamber, the first inlet valve chamber having a first inlet port and a first outlet port;
wherein the first inlet port is in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir; wherein the first outlet port is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the first position, the first movable inlet member is spaced from the first outlet port and engages with the first inlet port, and allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the second position, the first movable inlet member is spaced from the first inlet port and engages with the first outlet port to prevent fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism; wherein the second movable inlet member is movably disposed within a second inlet valve chamber, the second inlet valve chamber having a second inlet port and a second outlet port; wherein the second inlet port is in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir; wherein the second outlet port is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism; wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the first position, the second movable inlet member is spaced from the second inlet port and engages with the second outlet port to prevent fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism; and wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the second position, the second movable inlet member is spaced from the second outlet port and engages with the second inlet port, and allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism. 6. The fluid dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the first movable inlet member comprises a first inlet ball;
wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the first inlet ball is at the first position: (i) the first inlet ball is located downwardly from the first outlet port, and (ii) the first inlet ball is located upwardly from the first inlet port; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the first inlet ball is at the second position: (i) the first inlet ball is located upwardly from the first outlet port, and (ii) the first inlet ball is located downwardly from the first inlet port; wherein the second movable inlet member comprises a second inlet ball; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the second inlet ball is at the first position: (i) the second inlet ball is located upwardly from the second outlet port, and (ii) the second inlet ball is located downwardly from the second inlet port; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the second inlet ball is at the second position: (i) the second inlet ball is located downwardly from the second outlet port, and (ii) the second inlet ball is located upwardly from the second inlet port. 7. The fluid dispenser according to claim 6, wherein the pump mechanism comprises a variable volume fluid compartment that is in fluid communication with the outlet valve mechanism, the first inlet valve mechanism, and the second inlet valve mechanism;
wherein the variable volume fluid compartment has an internal volume that, upon activation of the pump mechanism, cycles between an expanded volume and a reduced volume; wherein the fluid dispenser further comprises a one-way fluid outlet valve that allows fluid to pass from the variable volume fluid compartment, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the outlet valve mechanism, and prevents fluid from passing from the outlet valve mechanism, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the variable volume fluid compartment; wherein the fluid dispenser further comprises at least one one-way fluid inlet valve that allows fluid to pass from the first inlet valve mechanism and the second inlet valve mechanism to the variable volume fluid compartment, and prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment to the first inlet valve mechanism and the second inlet valve mechanism; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume: (i) a fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment decreases, generating a negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir, (ii) the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir causes the fluid within the fluid reservoir to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, (iii) the engagement of the second inlet ball with the second outlet port prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, and (iv) the one-way fluid outlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the outlet valve mechanism, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the variable volume fluid compartment; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is decreased from the expanded volume to the reduced volume: (i) the fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment increases, generating a positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air surrounding the fluid dispenser, (ii) the positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air causes the fluid within the variable volume fluid compartment to pass from the variable volume fluid compartment, past the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve, and through the outlet valve mechanism, to be dispensed from the first fluid outlet, (iii) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir, and (iv) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume: (i) the fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment decreases, generating a negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir, (ii) the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir causes the fluid within the fluid reservoir to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, (iii) the engagement of the first inlet ball with the first outlet port prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, and (iv) the one-way fluid outlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the outlet valve mechanism, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the variable volume fluid compartment; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is decreased from the expanded volume to the reduced volume: (i) the fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment increases, generating a positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air surrounding the fluid dispenser, (ii) the positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air causes the fluid within the variable volume fluid compartment to pass from the variable volume fluid compartment, past the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve, and through the outlet valve mechanism, to be dispensed from the second fluid outlet, (iii) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir, and (iv) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir. 8. The fluid dispenser according to claim 7, wherein a weight of the first inlet ball is selected so that, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume, the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir is sufficient to lift the first inlet ball away from the first inlet port to allow the fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment;
wherein a weight of the second inlet ball is selected so that, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume, the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir is sufficient to lift the second inlet ball away from the second inlet port to allow the fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment. 9. The fluid dispenser according to claim 4, further comprising:
a first inlet passage in fluid communication with the first inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; and a second inlet passage in fluid communication with the second inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; wherein the first inlet passage has a first passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein the second inlet passage has a second passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, the first passage opening is located below the second passage opening; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the first passage opening is located above the second passage opening. 10. The fluid dispenser according to claim 9, wherein the first orientation is an upright orientation and the second orientation is an inverted orientation;
wherein the first passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a bottom portion of the fluid reservoir; and wherein the second passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a top portion of the fluid reservoir. 11. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid outlet comprises a nozzle that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, discharges the fluid as a stream or a spray that is directed away from the fluid dispenser. 12. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising an application member for applying the fluid to a surface;
wherein the application member is located proximate to the second fluid outlet so that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the second fluid outlet discharges the fluid into or adjacent to the application member. 13. The fluid dispenser according to claim 12, wherein the application member comprises at least one of: a scrubbing tool, a wiping tool, a scraping tool, a polishing tool, a cleaning tool, a natural sponge, a synthetic sponge, a cloth, a brush, a roller applicator, and a wipe pad. 14. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising:
a handle portion for manually carrying the fluid dispenser with a user's hand; and an actuator that is manually operable to activate the pump mechanism; wherein the actuator is located on or proximate to the handle portion so as to be accessible for manual operation by a user's finger or fingers while gripping the handle portion with the user's hand in both the first orientation and the second orientation. 15. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a one-way air valve that allows atmospheric air to enter the fluid reservoir through the one-way air valve, and prevents fluid from exiting the fluid reservoir through the one-way air valve, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the second orientation. 16. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the fluid comprises a surface cleaning fluid. 17. The fluid dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the movable outlet member is movably disposed within an outlet valve chamber, the outlet valve chamber having an inlet opening, a first outlet opening, and a second outlet opening;
wherein the inlet opening is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism for receiving the fluid upon activation of the pump mechanism; wherein the first outlet opening is in fluid communication with the first fluid outlet; wherein the second outlet opening is in fluid communication with the second fluid outlet; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the second outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the second fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the first outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the first outlet opening; and wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the first outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the first fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the second outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the second outlet opening. 18. The fluid dispenser according to claim 17, further comprising an application member for applying the fluid to a surface;
wherein the first fluid outlet comprises a nozzle that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, discharges the fluid as a stream or a spray that is directed away from the fluid dispenser; and wherein the application member is located proximate to the second fluid outlet so that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the second fluid outlet discharges the fluid into or adjacent to the application member. 19. The fluid dispenser according to claim 18, further comprising:
a handle portion for manually carrying the fluid dispenser with a user's hand; and an actuator that is manually operable to activate the pump mechanism; wherein the actuator is located on or proximate to the handle portion so as to be accessible for manual operation by a user's finger or fingers while gripping the handle portion with the user's hand in both the first orientation and the second orientation; and wherein the fluid comprises a surface cleaning fluid. 20. The fluid dispenser according to claim 7, wherein the movable outlet member is movably disposed within an outlet valve chamber, the outlet valve chamber having an inlet opening, a first outlet opening, and a second outlet opening;
wherein the inlet opening is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism for receiving the fluid upon activation of the pump mechanism; wherein the first outlet opening is in fluid communication with the first fluid outlet; wherein the second outlet opening is in fluid communication with the second fluid outlet; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the second outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the second fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the first outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the first outlet opening; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the first outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the first fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the second outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the second outlet opening; wherein the movable outlet member comprises an outlet ball; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the outlet ball is at the first position: (i) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the second outlet opening; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the outlet ball is at the second position: (i) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the second outlet opening; the fluid dispenser further comprising: a first inlet passage in fluid communication with the first inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; and a second inlet passage in fluid communication with the second inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; wherein the first inlet passage has a first passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein the second inlet passage has a second passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, the first passage opening is located below the second passage opening; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the first passage opening is located above the second passage opening; wherein the first orientation is an upright orientation and the second orientation is an inverted orientation; wherein the first passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a bottom portion of the fluid reservoir; wherein the second passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a top portion of the fluid reservoir; the fluid dispenser further comprising an application member for applying the fluid to a surface; wherein the first fluid outlet comprises a nozzle that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, discharges the fluid as a stream or a spray that is directed away from the fluid dispenser; wherein the application member is located proximate to the second fluid outlet so that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the second fluid outlet discharges the fluid into or adjacent to the application member; the fluid dispenser further comprising: a handle portion for manually carrying the fluid dispenser with a user's hand; and an actuator that is manually operable to activate the pump mechanism; wherein the actuator is located on or proximate to the handle portion so as to be accessible for manual operation by a user's finger or fingers while gripping the handle portion with the user's hand in both the first orientation and the second orientation; and wherein the fluid comprises a surface cleaning fluid. | A fluid dispenser having a first fluid outlet for dispensing fluid when in a first orientation and a second fluid outlet for dispensing fluid when in a second orientation. An outlet valve mechanism directs the fluid towards the first fluid outlet in the first orientation, and towards the second fluid outlet when in the second orientation. The outlet valve mechanism includes a movable outlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation.1. A fluid dispenser comprising:
a fluid reservoir containing a fluid to be dispensed; a first fluid outlet for dispensing the fluid when the fluid dispenser is in a first orientation; a second fluid outlet for dispensing the fluid when the fluid dispenser is in a second orientation; an outlet valve mechanism for directing the fluid towards the first fluid outlet when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and towards the second fluid outlet when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; and a pump mechanism that, when activated, forces an allotment of the fluid through the outlet valve mechanism to be discharged from either the first fluid outlet or the second fluid outlet; wherein the outlet valve mechanism comprises a movable outlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the movable outlet member moves from the first position to the second position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the first orientation to the second orientation; wherein the movable outlet member moves from the second position to the first position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the second orientation to the first orientation; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position, the outlet valve mechanism allows the fluid to pass through the outlet valve mechanism towards the first fluid outlet, and prevents the fluid from passing through the outlet valve mechanism towards the second fluid outlet; and wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position, the outlet valve mechanism allows the fluid to pass through the outlet valve mechanism towards the second fluid outlet, and prevents the fluid from passing through the outlet valve mechanism towards the first fluid outlet. 2. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the movable outlet member is movably disposed within an outlet valve chamber, the outlet valve chamber having an inlet opening, a first outlet opening, and a second outlet opening;
wherein the inlet opening is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism for receiving the fluid upon activation of the pump mechanism; wherein the first outlet opening is in fluid communication with the first fluid outlet; wherein the second outlet opening is in fluid communication with the second fluid outlet; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the second outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the second fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the first outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the first outlet opening; and wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the first outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the first fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the second outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the second outlet opening. 3. The fluid dispenser according to claim 2, wherein the movable outlet member comprises an outlet ball;
wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the outlet ball is at the first position: (i) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the second outlet opening; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the outlet ball is at the second position: (i) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the second outlet opening. 4. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising:
a first inlet valve mechanism for delivering the fluid from the fluid reservoir to the pump mechanism when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation; and a second inlet valve mechanism for delivering the fluid from the fluid reservoir to the pump mechanism when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the first inlet valve mechanism comprises a first movable inlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the first movable inlet member moves from the first position to the second position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the first orientation to the second orientation; wherein the first movable inlet member moves from the second position to the first position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the second orientation to the first orientation; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the first position, the first inlet valve mechanism allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the second position, the first inlet valve mechanism prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism; wherein the second inlet valve mechanism comprises a second movable inlet member that is located at a first position when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, and is located at a second position when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation; wherein the second movable inlet member moves from the first position to the second position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the first orientation to the second orientation; wherein the second movable inlet member moves from the second position to the first position under the force of gravity when the fluid dispenser moves from the second orientation to the first orientation; wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the first position, the second inlet valve mechanism prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism; and wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the second position, the second inlet valve mechanism allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve mechanism, to the pump mechanism. 5. The fluid dispenser according to claim 4, wherein the first movable inlet member is movably disposed within a first inlet valve chamber, the first inlet valve chamber having a first inlet port and a first outlet port;
wherein the first inlet port is in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir; wherein the first outlet port is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the first position, the first movable inlet member is spaced from the first outlet port and engages with the first inlet port, and allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism; wherein, when the first movable inlet member is at the second position, the first movable inlet member is spaced from the first inlet port and engages with the first outlet port to prevent fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism; wherein the second movable inlet member is movably disposed within a second inlet valve chamber, the second inlet valve chamber having a second inlet port and a second outlet port; wherein the second inlet port is in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir; wherein the second outlet port is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism; wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the first position, the second movable inlet member is spaced from the second inlet port and engages with the second outlet port to prevent fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism; and wherein, when the second movable inlet member is at the second position, the second movable inlet member is spaced from the second outlet port and engages with the second inlet port, and allows fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the pump mechanism. 6. The fluid dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the first movable inlet member comprises a first inlet ball;
wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the first inlet ball is at the first position: (i) the first inlet ball is located downwardly from the first outlet port, and (ii) the first inlet ball is located upwardly from the first inlet port; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the first inlet ball is at the second position: (i) the first inlet ball is located upwardly from the first outlet port, and (ii) the first inlet ball is located downwardly from the first inlet port; wherein the second movable inlet member comprises a second inlet ball; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the second inlet ball is at the first position: (i) the second inlet ball is located upwardly from the second outlet port, and (ii) the second inlet ball is located downwardly from the second inlet port; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the second inlet ball is at the second position: (i) the second inlet ball is located downwardly from the second outlet port, and (ii) the second inlet ball is located upwardly from the second inlet port. 7. The fluid dispenser according to claim 6, wherein the pump mechanism comprises a variable volume fluid compartment that is in fluid communication with the outlet valve mechanism, the first inlet valve mechanism, and the second inlet valve mechanism;
wherein the variable volume fluid compartment has an internal volume that, upon activation of the pump mechanism, cycles between an expanded volume and a reduced volume; wherein the fluid dispenser further comprises a one-way fluid outlet valve that allows fluid to pass from the variable volume fluid compartment, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the outlet valve mechanism, and prevents fluid from passing from the outlet valve mechanism, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the variable volume fluid compartment; wherein the fluid dispenser further comprises at least one one-way fluid inlet valve that allows fluid to pass from the first inlet valve mechanism and the second inlet valve mechanism to the variable volume fluid compartment, and prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment to the first inlet valve mechanism and the second inlet valve mechanism; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume: (i) a fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment decreases, generating a negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir, (ii) the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir causes the fluid within the fluid reservoir to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, (iii) the engagement of the second inlet ball with the second outlet port prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, and (iv) the one-way fluid outlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the outlet valve mechanism, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the variable volume fluid compartment; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is decreased from the expanded volume to the reduced volume: (i) the fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment increases, generating a positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air surrounding the fluid dispenser, (ii) the positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air causes the fluid within the variable volume fluid compartment to pass from the variable volume fluid compartment, past the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve, and through the outlet valve mechanism, to be dispensed from the first fluid outlet, (iii) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir, and (iv) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume: (i) the fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment decreases, generating a negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir, (ii) the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir causes the fluid within the fluid reservoir to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, (iii) the engagement of the first inlet ball with the first outlet port prevents fluid from passing from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment, and (iv) the one-way fluid outlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the outlet valve mechanism, past the one-way fluid outlet valve, to the variable volume fluid compartment; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is decreased from the expanded volume to the reduced volume: (i) the fluid pressure within the variable volume fluid compartment increases, generating a positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air surrounding the fluid dispenser, (ii) the positive pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the atmospheric air causes the fluid within the variable volume fluid compartment to pass from the variable volume fluid compartment, past the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve, and through the outlet valve mechanism, to be dispensed from the second fluid outlet, (iii) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir, and (iv) the at least one one-way fluid inlet valve prevents fluid from passing from the variable volume fluid compartment, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the fluid reservoir. 8. The fluid dispenser according to claim 7, wherein a weight of the first inlet ball is selected so that, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume, the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir is sufficient to lift the first inlet ball away from the first inlet port to allow the fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the first inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment;
wherein a weight of the second inlet ball is selected so that, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the internal volume of the variable volume fluid compartment is increased from the reduced volume to the expanded volume, the negative pressure differential between the variable volume fluid compartment and the fluid reservoir is sufficient to lift the second inlet ball away from the second inlet port to allow the fluid to pass from the fluid reservoir, through the second inlet valve chamber, to the variable volume fluid compartment. 9. The fluid dispenser according to claim 4, further comprising:
a first inlet passage in fluid communication with the first inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; and a second inlet passage in fluid communication with the second inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; wherein the first inlet passage has a first passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein the second inlet passage has a second passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, the first passage opening is located below the second passage opening; and wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the first passage opening is located above the second passage opening. 10. The fluid dispenser according to claim 9, wherein the first orientation is an upright orientation and the second orientation is an inverted orientation;
wherein the first passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a bottom portion of the fluid reservoir; and wherein the second passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a top portion of the fluid reservoir. 11. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid outlet comprises a nozzle that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, discharges the fluid as a stream or a spray that is directed away from the fluid dispenser. 12. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising an application member for applying the fluid to a surface;
wherein the application member is located proximate to the second fluid outlet so that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the second fluid outlet discharges the fluid into or adjacent to the application member. 13. The fluid dispenser according to claim 12, wherein the application member comprises at least one of: a scrubbing tool, a wiping tool, a scraping tool, a polishing tool, a cleaning tool, a natural sponge, a synthetic sponge, a cloth, a brush, a roller applicator, and a wipe pad. 14. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising:
a handle portion for manually carrying the fluid dispenser with a user's hand; and an actuator that is manually operable to activate the pump mechanism; wherein the actuator is located on or proximate to the handle portion so as to be accessible for manual operation by a user's finger or fingers while gripping the handle portion with the user's hand in both the first orientation and the second orientation. 15. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a one-way air valve that allows atmospheric air to enter the fluid reservoir through the one-way air valve, and prevents fluid from exiting the fluid reservoir through the one-way air valve, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the second orientation. 16. The fluid dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the fluid comprises a surface cleaning fluid. 17. The fluid dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the movable outlet member is movably disposed within an outlet valve chamber, the outlet valve chamber having an inlet opening, a first outlet opening, and a second outlet opening;
wherein the inlet opening is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism for receiving the fluid upon activation of the pump mechanism; wherein the first outlet opening is in fluid communication with the first fluid outlet; wherein the second outlet opening is in fluid communication with the second fluid outlet; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the second outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the second fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the first outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the first outlet opening; and wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the first outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the first fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the second outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the second outlet opening. 18. The fluid dispenser according to claim 17, further comprising an application member for applying the fluid to a surface;
wherein the first fluid outlet comprises a nozzle that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, discharges the fluid as a stream or a spray that is directed away from the fluid dispenser; and wherein the application member is located proximate to the second fluid outlet so that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the second fluid outlet discharges the fluid into or adjacent to the application member. 19. The fluid dispenser according to claim 18, further comprising:
a handle portion for manually carrying the fluid dispenser with a user's hand; and an actuator that is manually operable to activate the pump mechanism; wherein the actuator is located on or proximate to the handle portion so as to be accessible for manual operation by a user's finger or fingers while gripping the handle portion with the user's hand in both the first orientation and the second orientation; and wherein the fluid comprises a surface cleaning fluid. 20. The fluid dispenser according to claim 7, wherein the movable outlet member is movably disposed within an outlet valve chamber, the outlet valve chamber having an inlet opening, a first outlet opening, and a second outlet opening;
wherein the inlet opening is in fluid communication with the pump mechanism for receiving the fluid upon activation of the pump mechanism; wherein the first outlet opening is in fluid communication with the first fluid outlet; wherein the second outlet opening is in fluid communication with the second fluid outlet; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the first position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the second outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the second fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the first outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the first outlet opening; wherein, when the movable outlet member is at the second position: (i) the movable outlet member engages with the first outlet opening to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet valve chamber towards the first fluid outlet, and (ii) the movable outlet member is spaced from the inlet opening and the second outlet opening to provide a passageway for the fluid to pass from the inlet opening, through the outlet valve chamber, and into the second outlet opening; wherein the movable outlet member comprises an outlet ball; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation and the outlet ball is at the first position: (i) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the second outlet opening; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation and the outlet ball is at the second position: (i) the outlet ball is located upwardly from the first outlet opening, and (ii) the outlet ball is located downwardly from the second outlet opening; the fluid dispenser further comprising: a first inlet passage in fluid communication with the first inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; and a second inlet passage in fluid communication with the second inlet valve mechanism and the fluid reservoir; wherein the first inlet passage has a first passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein the second inlet passage has a second passage opening for receiving the fluid from the fluid reservoir; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, the first passage opening is located below the second passage opening; wherein, when the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the first passage opening is located above the second passage opening; wherein the first orientation is an upright orientation and the second orientation is an inverted orientation; wherein the first passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a bottom portion of the fluid reservoir; wherein the second passage opening is positioned to receive the fluid from a top portion of the fluid reservoir; the fluid dispenser further comprising an application member for applying the fluid to a surface; wherein the first fluid outlet comprises a nozzle that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the first orientation, discharges the fluid as a stream or a spray that is directed away from the fluid dispenser; wherein the application member is located proximate to the second fluid outlet so that, upon activation of the pump mechanism while the fluid dispenser is in the second orientation, the second fluid outlet discharges the fluid into or adjacent to the application member; the fluid dispenser further comprising: a handle portion for manually carrying the fluid dispenser with a user's hand; and an actuator that is manually operable to activate the pump mechanism; wherein the actuator is located on or proximate to the handle portion so as to be accessible for manual operation by a user's finger or fingers while gripping the handle portion with the user's hand in both the first orientation and the second orientation; and wherein the fluid comprises a surface cleaning fluid. | 1,700 |
341,372 | 16,801,703 | 2,872 | A rearview device for a motor vehicle includes a moveable head assembly, an actuator assembly having a fixed part and a moveable part, the moveable part being attached to the head assembly, a motor cradle configured to attach the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly. A method of assembling a rearview device comprises providing the rearview device and attaching the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly using the motor cradle. | 1. A rearview device for a vehicle, comprising:
a moveable head assembly; an actuator assembly including a fixed part and a moveable part, the moveable part being attached to the head assembly; a motor cradle configured to attach the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly; and a light module which is attached to the moveable head assembly and is controlled via the rearview device. 2. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein
the moveable head assembly includes a lower case; the moveable part of the actuator assembly is attached to the lower case of the head assembly; and a light module which is attached to the lower case. 3. The rearview device of claim 2, where
the light module includes one or more tabs, the lower case includes one or more tab receiving portions, and the one or more tab receiving portions of the lower case are configured to receive the one or more tabs of the light module, and the light module is configured to lock and attach to the lower case by pressing the light module on the lower case and sliding the light module with respect to the lower case. 4. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the actuator assembly is attached to the lower case of the moveable head assembly using the motor cradle. 5. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the lower case includes one or more vertical fixation lugs, the motor cradle includes one or more cradle projections, and the one or more vertical fixation lugs are configured to engage the one or more cradle projections in response to the motor cradle being attached to the lower case. 6. The rearview device of claim 4, wherein the motor cradle is configured to attach to the lower case using a turn and snap or hook and snap connectivity. 7. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the motor cradle further includes one or more cradle teeth, and the one or more cradle teeth of the motor cradle are configured to engage one or more corresponding gaps formed in a ring of the actuator assembly. 8. The rearview device of claim 2, further comprising a cradle clamp configured to clamp the actuator assembly to the motor cradle, the lower case, and a light module. 9. The rearview device of claim 8, wherein the cradle clamp comprises:
one or more clamp cams configured to be received by a space formed between the actuator assembly and the motor cradle; one or more clamp prongs configured to be received by a space formed between the actuator assembly and the motor cradle; one or more clamp clips configured to clip on to corresponding features of the motor cradle; one or more case locking prongs configured to lock the actuator assembly to the lower case; and one or more light module locking prongs configured lock the actuator assembly to the light module. 10. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the light module includes a combined side turn indicator module and blind spot monitor module as a common assembly. 11. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the moveable head assembly includes a mirror glass, an upper case, and a bezel attached to the upper and lower casing elements, the bezel surrounds the mirror glass, and the light module is attached to at least one of the upper case and the bezel. 12. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the light module includes one or more clips and, only fully pressed down onto the lower case, the light module is adapted to slide along a curved edge of the lower case until one or more clips of the light module are engaged to lock the position of the light module. 13. The rearview device of claim 12, wherein the light module to lower case gap includes a series of tabs along the lower case which allow locking of the light module in place, or the cradle clamp includes a series of tabs to lock the light module. 14. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein, the light module is at least one of an external light module, an internal light module, a front light, a back light, a fog light, a brake light, an acceleration light, a turn signal, a logo lamp, a puddle light, a flash light, a navigation light, a position light, an emergency light, a spotlight, a green light, a red light, a warning light, a turn signal light module, an approach light, a search light, an information light, and a display. 15. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the actuator assembly is adapted to move at least one moveable part including at least one of a display, a camera system, a lens, a filter, a light source, an adaptive optics, a sensor and a mirror, and an actuator means for inducing movement of other objects. 16. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the actuator assembly includes at least one of linear tracks and rotating wheels adapted for exchanging at least one of optical elements, lenses, mirrors, light sources, sensors, adaptive optics, deformable mirror, and filters. 17. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein at least one of a tiredness detection system, a microsleep detection system, a distance determination system, a velocity determination system, a blind spot indicator system, a lane change assistant system a navigation assistant system, a tracking assistant system, a human-machine interaction system, a machine-machine interaction system, an emergency and precaution assistant system, a counter-measures assistant system, a brake assistant system, a steering assistant system, an acceleration assistant system, an escape assistant system, an ejection seat system, a direction indicator, a blind spot indicator, an approach system, a strong braking system, an emergency braking system, a charging status indicator, a vehicle mode system, a sports mode system, an economy mode system, an autonomous drive mode system, a sleep mode system, an anti-theft system, a vehicle locked indicator system, a vehicle stolen indicator, a warning signal system, a temperature indicator system, a weather indicator system, traffic light signal system, and a fuel status system is controlled via the rearview device. 18. A rearview device for a vehicle, comprising:
a moveable head assembly; an actuator assembly including a fixed part and a moveable part, the moveable part being attached to the head assembly; a motor cradle configured to attach the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly; a light module attached to the moveable head assembly; and a memory for storing data for controlling at least one device or system associated with the rearview device. 19. The rearview device of claim 18, wherein the memory stores data for controlling a position of the moveable head assembly. 20. The rearview device of claim 18, where the memory stores data for controlling a position of a moveable part of the rearview device. 21. The rearview device of claim 18, further comprising a control system that includes the memory. 22. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system further includes at least one memory sensor for at least one individual pre-set memory function. 23. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system further includes a memory positioning function system. 24. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system is configured to use one or more pre-set memory functions to control one or more mirror positioning operations. 25. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system is configured to interact with one or more illumination systems or devices. 26. The rearview device of claim 25, wherein the one or more illumination systems or devices include the light module. 27. The rearview device of claim 26, wherein the light module is a side turn indicator (STI) module. | A rearview device for a motor vehicle includes a moveable head assembly, an actuator assembly having a fixed part and a moveable part, the moveable part being attached to the head assembly, a motor cradle configured to attach the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly. A method of assembling a rearview device comprises providing the rearview device and attaching the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly using the motor cradle.1. A rearview device for a vehicle, comprising:
a moveable head assembly; an actuator assembly including a fixed part and a moveable part, the moveable part being attached to the head assembly; a motor cradle configured to attach the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly; and a light module which is attached to the moveable head assembly and is controlled via the rearview device. 2. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein
the moveable head assembly includes a lower case; the moveable part of the actuator assembly is attached to the lower case of the head assembly; and a light module which is attached to the lower case. 3. The rearview device of claim 2, where
the light module includes one or more tabs, the lower case includes one or more tab receiving portions, and the one or more tab receiving portions of the lower case are configured to receive the one or more tabs of the light module, and the light module is configured to lock and attach to the lower case by pressing the light module on the lower case and sliding the light module with respect to the lower case. 4. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the actuator assembly is attached to the lower case of the moveable head assembly using the motor cradle. 5. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the lower case includes one or more vertical fixation lugs, the motor cradle includes one or more cradle projections, and the one or more vertical fixation lugs are configured to engage the one or more cradle projections in response to the motor cradle being attached to the lower case. 6. The rearview device of claim 4, wherein the motor cradle is configured to attach to the lower case using a turn and snap or hook and snap connectivity. 7. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the motor cradle further includes one or more cradle teeth, and the one or more cradle teeth of the motor cradle are configured to engage one or more corresponding gaps formed in a ring of the actuator assembly. 8. The rearview device of claim 2, further comprising a cradle clamp configured to clamp the actuator assembly to the motor cradle, the lower case, and a light module. 9. The rearview device of claim 8, wherein the cradle clamp comprises:
one or more clamp cams configured to be received by a space formed between the actuator assembly and the motor cradle; one or more clamp prongs configured to be received by a space formed between the actuator assembly and the motor cradle; one or more clamp clips configured to clip on to corresponding features of the motor cradle; one or more case locking prongs configured to lock the actuator assembly to the lower case; and one or more light module locking prongs configured lock the actuator assembly to the light module. 10. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the light module includes a combined side turn indicator module and blind spot monitor module as a common assembly. 11. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the moveable head assembly includes a mirror glass, an upper case, and a bezel attached to the upper and lower casing elements, the bezel surrounds the mirror glass, and the light module is attached to at least one of the upper case and the bezel. 12. The rearview device of claim 2, wherein the light module includes one or more clips and, only fully pressed down onto the lower case, the light module is adapted to slide along a curved edge of the lower case until one or more clips of the light module are engaged to lock the position of the light module. 13. The rearview device of claim 12, wherein the light module to lower case gap includes a series of tabs along the lower case which allow locking of the light module in place, or the cradle clamp includes a series of tabs to lock the light module. 14. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein, the light module is at least one of an external light module, an internal light module, a front light, a back light, a fog light, a brake light, an acceleration light, a turn signal, a logo lamp, a puddle light, a flash light, a navigation light, a position light, an emergency light, a spotlight, a green light, a red light, a warning light, a turn signal light module, an approach light, a search light, an information light, and a display. 15. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the actuator assembly is adapted to move at least one moveable part including at least one of a display, a camera system, a lens, a filter, a light source, an adaptive optics, a sensor and a mirror, and an actuator means for inducing movement of other objects. 16. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein the actuator assembly includes at least one of linear tracks and rotating wheels adapted for exchanging at least one of optical elements, lenses, mirrors, light sources, sensors, adaptive optics, deformable mirror, and filters. 17. The rearview device of claim 1, wherein at least one of a tiredness detection system, a microsleep detection system, a distance determination system, a velocity determination system, a blind spot indicator system, a lane change assistant system a navigation assistant system, a tracking assistant system, a human-machine interaction system, a machine-machine interaction system, an emergency and precaution assistant system, a counter-measures assistant system, a brake assistant system, a steering assistant system, an acceleration assistant system, an escape assistant system, an ejection seat system, a direction indicator, a blind spot indicator, an approach system, a strong braking system, an emergency braking system, a charging status indicator, a vehicle mode system, a sports mode system, an economy mode system, an autonomous drive mode system, a sleep mode system, an anti-theft system, a vehicle locked indicator system, a vehicle stolen indicator, a warning signal system, a temperature indicator system, a weather indicator system, traffic light signal system, and a fuel status system is controlled via the rearview device. 18. A rearview device for a vehicle, comprising:
a moveable head assembly; an actuator assembly including a fixed part and a moveable part, the moveable part being attached to the head assembly; a motor cradle configured to attach the actuator assembly to the moveable head assembly; a light module attached to the moveable head assembly; and a memory for storing data for controlling at least one device or system associated with the rearview device. 19. The rearview device of claim 18, wherein the memory stores data for controlling a position of the moveable head assembly. 20. The rearview device of claim 18, where the memory stores data for controlling a position of a moveable part of the rearview device. 21. The rearview device of claim 18, further comprising a control system that includes the memory. 22. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system further includes at least one memory sensor for at least one individual pre-set memory function. 23. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system further includes a memory positioning function system. 24. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system is configured to use one or more pre-set memory functions to control one or more mirror positioning operations. 25. The rearview device of claim 21, wherein the control system is configured to interact with one or more illumination systems or devices. 26. The rearview device of claim 25, wherein the one or more illumination systems or devices include the light module. 27. The rearview device of claim 26, wherein the light module is a side turn indicator (STI) module. | 2,800 |
341,373 | 16,801,732 | 2,872 | A high lumen output flashlight includes a flashlight head at a first end of the flashlight and a power assembly at a second end of the flashlight. The power assembly includes power management module body member with a pivotally mounted cover selectively covering a recess formed in a second end of the power management module body member. An O-ring is positioned between the pivotally mounted cover and the power management module body member in a manner providing waterproof or water resistant protection. A central body member is positioned between the flashlight head and the power assembly. The flashlight head includes an outer body member secured to a first end of the central body member and an LED light assembly is positioned within the outer body member. The outer body member includes a plastic heat insulating ring. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A waterproof flashlight, comprising:
a flashlight head having a waterproof cavity retaining a LED light assembly; a power assembly including a power management module body member with a pivotally mounted cover selectively covering a recess formed in a second end of the power management module body member, a USB outlet port, a charging input port, a jump start cable outlet port, and LED charging indicator lights located within the recess, an O-ring positioned between the cover and the power management module body member in a manner providing waterproof protection for the USB outlet port, the charging input port, the jump start cable outlet port, and the LED charging indicator lights when the cover is closed; and a central body member connected between the flashlight head and the power assembly, the central body member includes a waterproof cavity retaining at least one rechargeable battery. 22. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the power management module body member includes at least one magnet for securing the cover in a closed and sealed orientation. 23. The flashlight according to claim 22, wherein the cover includes an exterior surface, and a magnet is attached along the exterior surface of the cover. 24. The flashlight according to claim 23, wherein a strength of the magnet on the exterior surface of the cover is less than that of the at least one magnet of the power management module body member for securing the cover in a closed and sealed orientation. 25. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the flashlight head includes a crenellated strike bezel adapted to break a car window. 26. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the flashlight head includes an outer body member secured to a first end of the central body member via a waterproof connection and the LED light assembly is positioned within the outer body member. 27. The flashlight according to claim 26, wherein the outer body member includes a front body member part separated from contact with a back body member part by a plastic heat insulating ring. 28. The flashlight according to claim 27, wherein the front body member part of the outer body member includes heat transfer fins that function to dissipate heat from the outer body member. 29. The flashlight according to claim 21, further including externally threaded colored lenses for selective attachment to the flashlight head. 30. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the power assembly also includes a power management module including at least one circuit board. | A high lumen output flashlight includes a flashlight head at a first end of the flashlight and a power assembly at a second end of the flashlight. The power assembly includes power management module body member with a pivotally mounted cover selectively covering a recess formed in a second end of the power management module body member. An O-ring is positioned between the pivotally mounted cover and the power management module body member in a manner providing waterproof or water resistant protection. A central body member is positioned between the flashlight head and the power assembly. The flashlight head includes an outer body member secured to a first end of the central body member and an LED light assembly is positioned within the outer body member. The outer body member includes a plastic heat insulating ring.1-20. (canceled) 21. A waterproof flashlight, comprising:
a flashlight head having a waterproof cavity retaining a LED light assembly; a power assembly including a power management module body member with a pivotally mounted cover selectively covering a recess formed in a second end of the power management module body member, a USB outlet port, a charging input port, a jump start cable outlet port, and LED charging indicator lights located within the recess, an O-ring positioned between the cover and the power management module body member in a manner providing waterproof protection for the USB outlet port, the charging input port, the jump start cable outlet port, and the LED charging indicator lights when the cover is closed; and a central body member connected between the flashlight head and the power assembly, the central body member includes a waterproof cavity retaining at least one rechargeable battery. 22. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the power management module body member includes at least one magnet for securing the cover in a closed and sealed orientation. 23. The flashlight according to claim 22, wherein the cover includes an exterior surface, and a magnet is attached along the exterior surface of the cover. 24. The flashlight according to claim 23, wherein a strength of the magnet on the exterior surface of the cover is less than that of the at least one magnet of the power management module body member for securing the cover in a closed and sealed orientation. 25. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the flashlight head includes a crenellated strike bezel adapted to break a car window. 26. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the flashlight head includes an outer body member secured to a first end of the central body member via a waterproof connection and the LED light assembly is positioned within the outer body member. 27. The flashlight according to claim 26, wherein the outer body member includes a front body member part separated from contact with a back body member part by a plastic heat insulating ring. 28. The flashlight according to claim 27, wherein the front body member part of the outer body member includes heat transfer fins that function to dissipate heat from the outer body member. 29. The flashlight according to claim 21, further including externally threaded colored lenses for selective attachment to the flashlight head. 30. The flashlight according to claim 21, wherein the power assembly also includes a power management module including at least one circuit board. | 2,800 |
341,374 | 16,801,715 | 2,872 | A beam-blocking leaf includes a body portion and a head portion. The head portion is movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the body portion. A collimator including the beam-blocking leaf and a method of collimating a radiation beam using the collimator are also provided. | 1. A beam-blocking leaf comprising a body portion and a head portion including an end surface, wherein the head portion is movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the body portion. 2. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 1, wherein the end surface of the head portion comprises a substantially flat surface. 3. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 2, wherein the beam-blocking leaf comprises a longitudinal axis along the body portion, and the head portion is rotatable about an axis generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, allowing an angle of the substantially flat surface relative to the longitudinal axis to change. 4. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 3, wherein the head portion is continuously rotatable about the axis clockwise or counterclockwise. 5. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 2, wherein the head portion further comprises a rounded back surface, and the body portion comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface to facilitate rotation of the head portion. 6. The beam blocking leaf of claim 5, wherein the rounded back surface of the head portion has a substantially constant radius. 7. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 1, wherein the end surface of the head portion comprises a slightly rounded surface. 8. A collimator, comprising:
a first beam-blocking leaf and a second beam-blocking leaf arranged opposed to the first beam-blocking leaf, the first and second beam-blocking leaves being longitudinally movable relative to each other, wherein at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a body portion and a head portion including an end surface, the head portion being movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the body portion. 9. The collimator of claim 8, wherein the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface to facilitate rotation of the head portion. 10. The collimator of claim 9, wherein the rounded back surface of the head portion has a substantially constant radius. 11. The collimator of claim 9, wherein the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves has a maximal travel range, and the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves is continuously rotatable throughout the maximal travel range of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves. 12. The collimator of claim 9, wherein each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises the head portion and the body portion. 13. The collimator of claim 9, further comprising a first moving mechanism configured to translate the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves, and a second moving mechanism configured to rotate the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves. 14. The collimator of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a first bank, a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a second bank opposed to the first bank, wherein the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first bank are longitudinally movable relative to the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the second bank, forming a plurality of pairs of beam-blocking leaves, and wherein the first beam-blocking leaf is arranged in the first bank and the second beam-blocking leaf is arranged in the second bank forming a pair of beam-blocking leaves longitudinally movable relative to each other. 15. The collimator of claim 14, wherein the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the leaf body portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface to facilitate rotation of the head portion. 16. The collimator of claim 14, wherein
each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a body portion and a head portion, the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprising an end surface and being movable relative to the body portion of corresponding leaf-blocking leaf, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves to change an orientation relative to the body portion of corresponding beam-blocking leaf, and the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface of the head portion of corresponding beam-blocking leaf to facilitate rotation of the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves. 17. The collimator of claim 16, wherein
each of the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks comprises a body portion and a head portion, the head portion of each of the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of each of the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface of the head portion of corresponding beam-blocking leaf. 18. The collimator of claim 14, wherein the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks are arranged in two or more levels. 19. A method of collimating a radiation beam from a source, comprising:
providing a multileaf collimator (MLC), wherein the MLC comprises:
a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a first bank, and a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a second bank opposed to the first bank, wherein the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first bank are longitudinally movable relative to the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the second bank, forming a plurality of pairs of beam-blocking leaves, wherein
beam-blocking leaves of at least selected pairs of the plurality of pairs each comprises a body portion and a head portion, the head portion comprising an end surface and being movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the source;
collimating the radiation beam by positioning the plurality of pairs of beam-blocking leaves in the radiation beam, wherein the positioning comprises adjusting the orientation of the end surface of the head portion of at least some of the selected pairs of beam-blocking leaves relative to the source. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the head portion of the selected pairs of the beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of the selected pairs of the beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface of the head portion, and wherein the adjusting comprises aligning the substantially flat end surface of the head portion of the at least some of the selected pairs of beam-blocking leaves to the source. | A beam-blocking leaf includes a body portion and a head portion. The head portion is movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the body portion. A collimator including the beam-blocking leaf and a method of collimating a radiation beam using the collimator are also provided.1. A beam-blocking leaf comprising a body portion and a head portion including an end surface, wherein the head portion is movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the body portion. 2. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 1, wherein the end surface of the head portion comprises a substantially flat surface. 3. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 2, wherein the beam-blocking leaf comprises a longitudinal axis along the body portion, and the head portion is rotatable about an axis generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, allowing an angle of the substantially flat surface relative to the longitudinal axis to change. 4. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 3, wherein the head portion is continuously rotatable about the axis clockwise or counterclockwise. 5. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 2, wherein the head portion further comprises a rounded back surface, and the body portion comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface to facilitate rotation of the head portion. 6. The beam blocking leaf of claim 5, wherein the rounded back surface of the head portion has a substantially constant radius. 7. The beam-blocking leaf of claim 1, wherein the end surface of the head portion comprises a slightly rounded surface. 8. A collimator, comprising:
a first beam-blocking leaf and a second beam-blocking leaf arranged opposed to the first beam-blocking leaf, the first and second beam-blocking leaves being longitudinally movable relative to each other, wherein at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a body portion and a head portion including an end surface, the head portion being movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the body portion. 9. The collimator of claim 8, wherein the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface to facilitate rotation of the head portion. 10. The collimator of claim 9, wherein the rounded back surface of the head portion has a substantially constant radius. 11. The collimator of claim 9, wherein the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves has a maximal travel range, and the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves is continuously rotatable throughout the maximal travel range of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves. 12. The collimator of claim 9, wherein each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises the head portion and the body portion. 13. The collimator of claim 9, further comprising a first moving mechanism configured to translate the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves, and a second moving mechanism configured to rotate the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves. 14. The collimator of claim 8, further comprising:
a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a first bank, a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a second bank opposed to the first bank, wherein the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first bank are longitudinally movable relative to the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the second bank, forming a plurality of pairs of beam-blocking leaves, and wherein the first beam-blocking leaf is arranged in the first bank and the second beam-blocking leaf is arranged in the second bank forming a pair of beam-blocking leaves longitudinally movable relative to each other. 15. The collimator of claim 14, wherein the head portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the leaf body portion of the at least one of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface to facilitate rotation of the head portion. 16. The collimator of claim 14, wherein
each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a body portion and a head portion, the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprising an end surface and being movable relative to the body portion of corresponding leaf-blocking leaf, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves to change an orientation relative to the body portion of corresponding beam-blocking leaf, and the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface of the head portion of corresponding beam-blocking leaf to facilitate rotation of the head portion of each of the first and second beam-blocking leaves. 17. The collimator of claim 16, wherein
each of the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks comprises a body portion and a head portion, the head portion of each of the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of each of the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface of the head portion of corresponding beam-blocking leaf. 18. The collimator of claim 14, wherein the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first and second banks are arranged in two or more levels. 19. A method of collimating a radiation beam from a source, comprising:
providing a multileaf collimator (MLC), wherein the MLC comprises:
a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a first bank, and a plurality of beam-blocking leaves arranged side by side in a second bank opposed to the first bank, wherein the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the first bank are longitudinally movable relative to the plurality of beam-blocking leaves in the second bank, forming a plurality of pairs of beam-blocking leaves, wherein
beam-blocking leaves of at least selected pairs of the plurality of pairs each comprises a body portion and a head portion, the head portion comprising an end surface and being movable relative to the body portion, thereby allowing the end surface of the head portion to change an orientation relative to the source;
collimating the radiation beam by positioning the plurality of pairs of beam-blocking leaves in the radiation beam, wherein the positioning comprises adjusting the orientation of the end surface of the head portion of at least some of the selected pairs of beam-blocking leaves relative to the source. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the head portion of the selected pairs of the beam-blocking leaves comprises a substantially flat end surface and a rounded back surface, and the body portion of the selected pairs of the beam-blocking leaves comprises a concave surface generally complementary to the rounded back surface of the head portion, and wherein the adjusting comprises aligning the substantially flat end surface of the head portion of the at least some of the selected pairs of beam-blocking leaves to the source. | 2,800 |
341,375 | 16,801,696 | 2,872 | The disclosure provides improved compositions and methods for passive immunization. In embodiments, a composition comprising a synergistic combination of specific polyclonal antibodies in a carrier matrix is provided. The disclosure provides effective, economical compositions and methods for the treatment of diarrhea and enteric infections in broad-spectrum, undifferentiated, or mixed clinical applications. | 1. A dosage form comprising a composition for administration to a non-neonate human in need thereof, the composition comprising:
a) a non-neonate effective amount of at least one antigen specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof, obtained from a first nonhuman animal; and, b) a carrier matrix comprising colostrum, or at least two components thereof obtained from a second nonhuman animal, wherein the at least two components are selected from the group consisting of enzymes, lactoferrin, transferrin, nonspecific immunoglobulins, cytokines, white blood cells, complement components, interferons, growth factors, and fibronectin,
wherein the at least one antigen-specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof and the colostrum or the at least two components of the carrier matrix are obtained from different non-human animals. 2. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the carrier matrix comprises bovine colostrum. 3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two components of the carrier matrix are selected from the group consisting of lysozyme, phospholipase, defensins, opsonins, nonspecific immunoglobulins, proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs), components of the complement system, beta-lysin, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, transferrin, cytokines, interleukins, chemokines, interferons, TNF-alpha, fibronectin, leukocytes, white blood cells, phagocytes, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, polymorphonuclear cells, dendritic cells, mast cells, eosinophils, basophils, natural killer (NK) cells, lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells, elastase, cathepsin G, myeloperoxidase, NADPH oxidase, insulin-like growth factor I, insulin-like growth factor II, transforming growth factor alpha, transforming growth factor beta 1, transforming growth factor beta 2, fibroblast growth factors, epidermal growth factor, granulocyte-macrophage stimulating growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, colony-stimulating factor-I, leptin, hepatocyte growth factor, and combinations thereof. 4. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the antigen is present in or is derived from a bacterial or viral pathogen, a pathogen related toxin, a pathogen related adhesion element, undesirable strain, or a combination thereof. 5. The dosage form of claim 4, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is a human or veterinary, enteric or gastrointestinal, pathogen capable of causing gastroenteritis. 6. The dosage form of claim 5, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is selected from the group consisting of: Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Shigella dystenteriae, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Escherichia coli, enteropathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enteroaggregative E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, haemorrhagic E. coli, Clostridium difficile, Yersinia enterocolitica, Vibrio cholerae O1, Vibrio O139, Non-O1 Vibrios, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Clostridium perfringens, enterohepatic Helicobacter, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Gardnerella spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydiaceae trachomatis, Mycoplasma spp., Campylobacter jejuni, Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes virus type 1, herpes virus type 2, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei, Group A Streptococcus spp., rotavirus, coronavirus, norovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, astrovirus, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, herpes zoster virus, Fusarium spp., and Acanthamoeba spp. 7. The dosage form of claim 6, wherein the at least one antigen-specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof comprise a mixture of polyclonal antibodies that are specific for one or more antigens present in the bacterial and/or viral pathogen, pathogen related toxin, or pathogen related adhesion element, derived from one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight, or more, different pathogenic microorganisms. 8. The dosage form of claim 4, wherein the pathogen related toxin comprises an endotoxin or exotoxin. 9. The dosage form of claim 4, wherein the pathogen related adhesion element comprises adhesins, cadherins, cilia, fimbrillae, a viral adhesion structure, or a combination thereof. 10. (canceled) 11. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the at least one antigen specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is selected from a mixture of polyclonal antibodies or a monoclonal antibody. 12. The dosage form of claim 11, wherein the at least one antibody is an IgG. 13. The dosage form of claim 11, wherein the at least one antibody is an IgY. 14. The dosage form of claim 11, wherein the at least one antibody is a mixture of polyclonal antibodies. 15. The dosage form of claim 2, wherein the bovine colostrum is non-hyperimmune bovine colostrum. 16. The dosage form of claim 2, wherein the bovine colostrum is full fat bovine colostrum. 17. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the antigen specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is in a solid form. 18. The dosage form of claim 17, wherein the antigen specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is crystalline. 19. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the carrier matrix is in a solid form. 20. The dosage form of claim 1 further comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent, binder, excipient, lubricant, sweetening agent, flavoring agent, wetting agent, absorbent, and/or retarding agent. 21.-23. (canceled) 24. A method for the treatment or prevention of a pathogenic infection or undesirable strain of microorganisms in a non-neonate human in need thereof; the method comprising administration of a composition comprising:
a) a non-neonate effective amount of at least one antigen specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof, obtained from a first nonhuman animal; and, b) a carrier matrix comprising colostrum or at least two components thereof obtained from a second nonhuman animal, wherein the at least two components are selected from the group consisting of enzymes, lactoferrin, transferrin, nonspecific immunoglobulins, cytokines, white blood cells, complement components, interferons, growth factors, and fibronectin, 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the pathogenic infection is selected from the group consisting of undifferentiated diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, rotavirus diarrhea, toxin-mediated diarrhea, cholera, C. difficile infection, dysentery, typhoid fever, and peptic ulcers. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the undifferentiated diarrhea is pediatric undifferentiated diarrhea. 27. The method of claim 24, wherein the composition is administered in an amount effective for conferring passive immunity to a subject. 28. The method of claim 24, wherein the treatment or prevention of an undesirable strain of microorganisms is used for gastrointestinal flora management. 29. The method of claim 24, wherein the pathogenic infection is caused by a microorganism selected from the group consisting of: Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Shigella dystenteriae, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Escherichia coli, enteropathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enteroaggregative E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, haemorrhagic E. coli, Clostridium difficile, Yersinia enterocolitica, Vibrio cholerae O1, Vibrio O139, Non-O1 Vibrios, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Clostridium perfringens, enterohepatic Helicobacter, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Gardnerella spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydiaceae trachomatis, Mycoplasma spp., Campylobacter jejuni, Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes virus type 1, herpes virus type 2, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei, Group A Streptococcus spp., rotavirus, coronavirus, norovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, astrovirus, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, herpes zoster virus, Fusarium spp., and Acanthamoeba spp. 30. (canceled) 31. The method of claim 24, wherein the colostrum is full fat bovine colostrum. 32. The method of claim 24, wherein the colostrum is non-hyperimmune bovine colostrum. 33. The method of claim 24, wherein the at least two components of the carrier matrix are selected from the group consisting of lysozyme, phospholipase, defensins, opsonins, nonspecific immunoglobulins, proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs), components of the complement system, beta-lysin, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, transferrin, cytokines, interleukins, chemokines, interferons, TNF-alpha, fibronectin, leukocytes, white blood cells, phagocytes, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, polymorphonuclear cells, dendritic cells, mast cells, eosinophils, basophils, natural killer (NK) cells, lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells, elastase, cathepsin G, myeloperoxidase, NADPH oxidase, insulin-like growth factor I, insulin-like growth factor II, transforming growth factor alpha, transforming growth factor beta 1, transforming growth factor beta 2, fibroblast growth factors, epidermal growth factor, granulocyte-macrophage stimulating growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, colony-stimulating factor-I, leptin, hepatocyte growth factor, and combinations thereof. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the at least two components of the carrier matrix include a growth factor and an antimicrobial factor. 35. The method of claim 24, wherein the antigen is present in or is derived from a bacterial or viral pathogen, a pathogen related toxin, a pathogen related adhesion element, undesirable strain, or a combination thereof. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is a human or veterinary, enteric or gastrointestinal, pathogen capable of causing gastroenteritis. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is selected from the group consisting of: Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Shigella dystenteriae, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Escherichia coli, enteropathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enteroaggregative E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, haemorrhagic E. coli, Clostridium difficile, Yersinia enterocolitica, Vibrio cholerae O1, Vibrio O139, Non-O1 Vibrios, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Clostridium perfringens, enterohepatic Helicobacter, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Gardnerella spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydiaceae trachomatis, Mycoplasma spp., Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes virus type 1, herpes virus type 2, Group A Streptococcus spp., rotavirus, coronavirus, norovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, astrovirus, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, herpes zoster virus. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is selected from the group consisting of E. coli, rotavirus, and coronavirus. 39. The method of claim 37, wherein the at least one antigen-specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof comprise a mixture of polyclonal antibodies that are specific for one or more antigens present in the bacterial and/or viral pathogen, pathogen related toxin, or pathogen related adhesion element, derived from one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight, or more, different pathogenic microorganisms. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the mixture of polyclonal antibodies comprise IgY antibodies specific for at least enterotoxigenic E. coli spp., E. coli K99 pili adherence factor, Clostridium perfringens toxoid, Salmonella typhimurium, rotavirus, and coronavirus. 41. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the dosage form is in a form selected from the group consisting of powder, tablet, capsule, troche, or liquid. 42. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the dosage form is a solid dosage form. 43. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein one dose of the composition comprises from 1 g to 7 g dried immune egg and from 1 g to 7 g dried bovine colostrum. 44. The dosage form of claim 1, that is an oral dosage form. | The disclosure provides improved compositions and methods for passive immunization. In embodiments, a composition comprising a synergistic combination of specific polyclonal antibodies in a carrier matrix is provided. The disclosure provides effective, economical compositions and methods for the treatment of diarrhea and enteric infections in broad-spectrum, undifferentiated, or mixed clinical applications.1. A dosage form comprising a composition for administration to a non-neonate human in need thereof, the composition comprising:
a) a non-neonate effective amount of at least one antigen specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof, obtained from a first nonhuman animal; and, b) a carrier matrix comprising colostrum, or at least two components thereof obtained from a second nonhuman animal, wherein the at least two components are selected from the group consisting of enzymes, lactoferrin, transferrin, nonspecific immunoglobulins, cytokines, white blood cells, complement components, interferons, growth factors, and fibronectin,
wherein the at least one antigen-specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof and the colostrum or the at least two components of the carrier matrix are obtained from different non-human animals. 2. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the carrier matrix comprises bovine colostrum. 3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two components of the carrier matrix are selected from the group consisting of lysozyme, phospholipase, defensins, opsonins, nonspecific immunoglobulins, proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs), components of the complement system, beta-lysin, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, transferrin, cytokines, interleukins, chemokines, interferons, TNF-alpha, fibronectin, leukocytes, white blood cells, phagocytes, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, polymorphonuclear cells, dendritic cells, mast cells, eosinophils, basophils, natural killer (NK) cells, lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells, elastase, cathepsin G, myeloperoxidase, NADPH oxidase, insulin-like growth factor I, insulin-like growth factor II, transforming growth factor alpha, transforming growth factor beta 1, transforming growth factor beta 2, fibroblast growth factors, epidermal growth factor, granulocyte-macrophage stimulating growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, colony-stimulating factor-I, leptin, hepatocyte growth factor, and combinations thereof. 4. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the antigen is present in or is derived from a bacterial or viral pathogen, a pathogen related toxin, a pathogen related adhesion element, undesirable strain, or a combination thereof. 5. The dosage form of claim 4, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is a human or veterinary, enteric or gastrointestinal, pathogen capable of causing gastroenteritis. 6. The dosage form of claim 5, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is selected from the group consisting of: Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Shigella dystenteriae, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Escherichia coli, enteropathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enteroaggregative E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, haemorrhagic E. coli, Clostridium difficile, Yersinia enterocolitica, Vibrio cholerae O1, Vibrio O139, Non-O1 Vibrios, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Clostridium perfringens, enterohepatic Helicobacter, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Gardnerella spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydiaceae trachomatis, Mycoplasma spp., Campylobacter jejuni, Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes virus type 1, herpes virus type 2, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei, Group A Streptococcus spp., rotavirus, coronavirus, norovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, astrovirus, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, herpes zoster virus, Fusarium spp., and Acanthamoeba spp. 7. The dosage form of claim 6, wherein the at least one antigen-specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof comprise a mixture of polyclonal antibodies that are specific for one or more antigens present in the bacterial and/or viral pathogen, pathogen related toxin, or pathogen related adhesion element, derived from one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight, or more, different pathogenic microorganisms. 8. The dosage form of claim 4, wherein the pathogen related toxin comprises an endotoxin or exotoxin. 9. The dosage form of claim 4, wherein the pathogen related adhesion element comprises adhesins, cadherins, cilia, fimbrillae, a viral adhesion structure, or a combination thereof. 10. (canceled) 11. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the at least one antigen specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is selected from a mixture of polyclonal antibodies or a monoclonal antibody. 12. The dosage form of claim 11, wherein the at least one antibody is an IgG. 13. The dosage form of claim 11, wherein the at least one antibody is an IgY. 14. The dosage form of claim 11, wherein the at least one antibody is a mixture of polyclonal antibodies. 15. The dosage form of claim 2, wherein the bovine colostrum is non-hyperimmune bovine colostrum. 16. The dosage form of claim 2, wherein the bovine colostrum is full fat bovine colostrum. 17. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the antigen specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is in a solid form. 18. The dosage form of claim 17, wherein the antigen specific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is crystalline. 19. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the carrier matrix is in a solid form. 20. The dosage form of claim 1 further comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent, binder, excipient, lubricant, sweetening agent, flavoring agent, wetting agent, absorbent, and/or retarding agent. 21.-23. (canceled) 24. A method for the treatment or prevention of a pathogenic infection or undesirable strain of microorganisms in a non-neonate human in need thereof; the method comprising administration of a composition comprising:
a) a non-neonate effective amount of at least one antigen specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof, obtained from a first nonhuman animal; and, b) a carrier matrix comprising colostrum or at least two components thereof obtained from a second nonhuman animal, wherein the at least two components are selected from the group consisting of enzymes, lactoferrin, transferrin, nonspecific immunoglobulins, cytokines, white blood cells, complement components, interferons, growth factors, and fibronectin, 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the pathogenic infection is selected from the group consisting of undifferentiated diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, rotavirus diarrhea, toxin-mediated diarrhea, cholera, C. difficile infection, dysentery, typhoid fever, and peptic ulcers. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the undifferentiated diarrhea is pediatric undifferentiated diarrhea. 27. The method of claim 24, wherein the composition is administered in an amount effective for conferring passive immunity to a subject. 28. The method of claim 24, wherein the treatment or prevention of an undesirable strain of microorganisms is used for gastrointestinal flora management. 29. The method of claim 24, wherein the pathogenic infection is caused by a microorganism selected from the group consisting of: Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Shigella dystenteriae, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Escherichia coli, enteropathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enteroaggregative E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, haemorrhagic E. coli, Clostridium difficile, Yersinia enterocolitica, Vibrio cholerae O1, Vibrio O139, Non-O1 Vibrios, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Clostridium perfringens, enterohepatic Helicobacter, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Gardnerella spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydiaceae trachomatis, Mycoplasma spp., Campylobacter jejuni, Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes virus type 1, herpes virus type 2, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei, Group A Streptococcus spp., rotavirus, coronavirus, norovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, astrovirus, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, herpes zoster virus, Fusarium spp., and Acanthamoeba spp. 30. (canceled) 31. The method of claim 24, wherein the colostrum is full fat bovine colostrum. 32. The method of claim 24, wherein the colostrum is non-hyperimmune bovine colostrum. 33. The method of claim 24, wherein the at least two components of the carrier matrix are selected from the group consisting of lysozyme, phospholipase, defensins, opsonins, nonspecific immunoglobulins, proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs), components of the complement system, beta-lysin, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, transferrin, cytokines, interleukins, chemokines, interferons, TNF-alpha, fibronectin, leukocytes, white blood cells, phagocytes, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, polymorphonuclear cells, dendritic cells, mast cells, eosinophils, basophils, natural killer (NK) cells, lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells, elastase, cathepsin G, myeloperoxidase, NADPH oxidase, insulin-like growth factor I, insulin-like growth factor II, transforming growth factor alpha, transforming growth factor beta 1, transforming growth factor beta 2, fibroblast growth factors, epidermal growth factor, granulocyte-macrophage stimulating growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, colony-stimulating factor-I, leptin, hepatocyte growth factor, and combinations thereof. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the at least two components of the carrier matrix include a growth factor and an antimicrobial factor. 35. The method of claim 24, wherein the antigen is present in or is derived from a bacterial or viral pathogen, a pathogen related toxin, a pathogen related adhesion element, undesirable strain, or a combination thereof. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is a human or veterinary, enteric or gastrointestinal, pathogen capable of causing gastroenteritis. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is selected from the group consisting of: Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Shigella dystenteriae, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Escherichia coli, enteropathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enteroaggregative E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, haemorrhagic E. coli, Clostridium difficile, Yersinia enterocolitica, Vibrio cholerae O1, Vibrio O139, Non-O1 Vibrios, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Clostridium perfringens, enterohepatic Helicobacter, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Gardnerella spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydiaceae trachomatis, Mycoplasma spp., Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes virus type 1, herpes virus type 2, Group A Streptococcus spp., rotavirus, coronavirus, norovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, astrovirus, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, herpes zoster virus. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the bacterial or viral pathogen is selected from the group consisting of E. coli, rotavirus, and coronavirus. 39. The method of claim 37, wherein the at least one antigen-specific antibody, or antigen-binding fragment thereof comprise a mixture of polyclonal antibodies that are specific for one or more antigens present in the bacterial and/or viral pathogen, pathogen related toxin, or pathogen related adhesion element, derived from one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight, or more, different pathogenic microorganisms. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the mixture of polyclonal antibodies comprise IgY antibodies specific for at least enterotoxigenic E. coli spp., E. coli K99 pili adherence factor, Clostridium perfringens toxoid, Salmonella typhimurium, rotavirus, and coronavirus. 41. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the dosage form is in a form selected from the group consisting of powder, tablet, capsule, troche, or liquid. 42. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein the dosage form is a solid dosage form. 43. The dosage form of claim 1, wherein one dose of the composition comprises from 1 g to 7 g dried immune egg and from 1 g to 7 g dried bovine colostrum. 44. The dosage form of claim 1, that is an oral dosage form. | 2,800 |
341,376 | 16,801,689 | 2,872 | An ion beam irradiation apparatus includes modules for generating an ion beam meeting a processing condition, and a machine learning part that generates a learning algorithm using, as an explanatory variable, a processing condition during new processing and a monitored value that indicates a state of a module during a last processing immediately before the new processing, and a basic operation parameter output part that uses the learning algorithm to output an initial value of a basic operation parameter for controlling an operation of the module. | 1. An ion beam irradiation apparatus comprising:
a plurality of modules for generating an ion beam meeting a processing condition; a memory storing program code; and at least one central processing unit (CPU) which accesses the memory to read the program code and execute the program code to operate as: a machine learning part that generates a learning algorithm using, as an explanatory variable, a processing condition during new processing and a monitored value that indicates a state of at least one of the modules during a last processing immediately before the new processing; and a basic operation parameter output part that uses the learning algorithm to output an initial value of a basic operation parameter for controlling an operation of the at least one of the modules. 2. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one CPU further executes the program code to input an initial value to one of the modules, and the one of the modules is operated based on an adjusted value obtained by adjusting the initial value,
wherein the CPU further executes the program code to operate as: a learning data storage part that stores learning data obtained from a plurality of previous processings that are prior to the new processing, the learning data including a plurality of data sets, each data set including the processing condition used in the processing, at least one of the initial value or the adjusted value for at least one module in the processing, the monitored value of the at least one module during the last processing immediately before the processing, and an actual value of an objective variable that is measured in the processing associated with each other, and wherein the learning algorithm is generated through machine learning using the learning data. 3. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 2, wherein the objective variable comprises a setup time period until the adjusted value is obtained; an index value indicative of whether or not the adjusted value is obtained; a beam current amplitude of the ion beam; a beam angle of the ion beam; or a beam current density of the ion beam. 4. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 2, wherein the plurality of modules include an ion source system-module, and
wherein the learning data includes the monitored value of at least the ion source system-module. 5. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 4, wherein the basic operation parameter comprises at least one of a flow rate of a gas to be supplied to a plasma chamber constituting the ion source-system module, or a current to be supplied to a source magnet for generating a magnetic field inside the plasma chamber. 6. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 1, which further comprises:
a control device comprising a memory storing control program code and at least one central processing unit (CPU) that accesses the memory to execute the control program code to: based on the processing condition and a setup sequence, select an initial value of the basic operation parameter; input the selected initial value to one of the modules; and adjust the input initial value to setup the one of the modules. 7. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 6, wherein the at least one CPU of the control device further executes the control program code to operate as a recovery part that, when the setup of the one of the modules fails to be completed, acquire an abnormal signal indicative of the failure, and in response to the abnormal signal, input the initial value of the basic operation parameter output from the basic operation parameter output part to the one of the modules. 8. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 6, wherein the at least one CPU of the control device further executes the control program code to operate as an advance prediction part that, when using the initial value selected based on the processing condition and the setup sequence, predicts whether or not the setup of the one of the modules will be completed, and
in response to the advance prediction part predicting that the setup of the one of the modules will not be completed, input the initial value of the basic operation parameter output from the basic operation parameter output part to the one of the modules. 9. A computer readable storage medium storing program code which, when executed by at least one central processing unit (CPU) of an ion beam irradiation apparatus that includes a plurality of modules for generating an ion beam meeting a processing condition, causes the CPU to operate as:
a machine learning part that generates a learning algorithm using, as an explanatory variable, a processing condition during new processing and a monitored value that indicates a state of at least one of the modules during a last processing immediately before the new processing; and a basic operation parameter output part that uses the learning algorithm to output an initial value of a basic operation parameter for controlling an operation of at least one of a plurality of modules for generating an ion beam meeting the processing condition. | An ion beam irradiation apparatus includes modules for generating an ion beam meeting a processing condition, and a machine learning part that generates a learning algorithm using, as an explanatory variable, a processing condition during new processing and a monitored value that indicates a state of a module during a last processing immediately before the new processing, and a basic operation parameter output part that uses the learning algorithm to output an initial value of a basic operation parameter for controlling an operation of the module.1. An ion beam irradiation apparatus comprising:
a plurality of modules for generating an ion beam meeting a processing condition; a memory storing program code; and at least one central processing unit (CPU) which accesses the memory to read the program code and execute the program code to operate as: a machine learning part that generates a learning algorithm using, as an explanatory variable, a processing condition during new processing and a monitored value that indicates a state of at least one of the modules during a last processing immediately before the new processing; and a basic operation parameter output part that uses the learning algorithm to output an initial value of a basic operation parameter for controlling an operation of the at least one of the modules. 2. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one CPU further executes the program code to input an initial value to one of the modules, and the one of the modules is operated based on an adjusted value obtained by adjusting the initial value,
wherein the CPU further executes the program code to operate as: a learning data storage part that stores learning data obtained from a plurality of previous processings that are prior to the new processing, the learning data including a plurality of data sets, each data set including the processing condition used in the processing, at least one of the initial value or the adjusted value for at least one module in the processing, the monitored value of the at least one module during the last processing immediately before the processing, and an actual value of an objective variable that is measured in the processing associated with each other, and wherein the learning algorithm is generated through machine learning using the learning data. 3. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 2, wherein the objective variable comprises a setup time period until the adjusted value is obtained; an index value indicative of whether or not the adjusted value is obtained; a beam current amplitude of the ion beam; a beam angle of the ion beam; or a beam current density of the ion beam. 4. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 2, wherein the plurality of modules include an ion source system-module, and
wherein the learning data includes the monitored value of at least the ion source system-module. 5. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 4, wherein the basic operation parameter comprises at least one of a flow rate of a gas to be supplied to a plasma chamber constituting the ion source-system module, or a current to be supplied to a source magnet for generating a magnetic field inside the plasma chamber. 6. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 1, which further comprises:
a control device comprising a memory storing control program code and at least one central processing unit (CPU) that accesses the memory to execute the control program code to: based on the processing condition and a setup sequence, select an initial value of the basic operation parameter; input the selected initial value to one of the modules; and adjust the input initial value to setup the one of the modules. 7. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 6, wherein the at least one CPU of the control device further executes the control program code to operate as a recovery part that, when the setup of the one of the modules fails to be completed, acquire an abnormal signal indicative of the failure, and in response to the abnormal signal, input the initial value of the basic operation parameter output from the basic operation parameter output part to the one of the modules. 8. The ion beam irradiation apparatus as recited in claim 6, wherein the at least one CPU of the control device further executes the control program code to operate as an advance prediction part that, when using the initial value selected based on the processing condition and the setup sequence, predicts whether or not the setup of the one of the modules will be completed, and
in response to the advance prediction part predicting that the setup of the one of the modules will not be completed, input the initial value of the basic operation parameter output from the basic operation parameter output part to the one of the modules. 9. A computer readable storage medium storing program code which, when executed by at least one central processing unit (CPU) of an ion beam irradiation apparatus that includes a plurality of modules for generating an ion beam meeting a processing condition, causes the CPU to operate as:
a machine learning part that generates a learning algorithm using, as an explanatory variable, a processing condition during new processing and a monitored value that indicates a state of at least one of the modules during a last processing immediately before the new processing; and a basic operation parameter output part that uses the learning algorithm to output an initial value of a basic operation parameter for controlling an operation of at least one of a plurality of modules for generating an ion beam meeting the processing condition. | 2,800 |
341,377 | 16,801,710 | 3,626 | Disclosed is a method, a device, a system and/or a manufacture of maximizing patient referral outcome through healthcare utilization and/or referral record evaluation. In one embodiment, a method includes generating a healthcare utilization log and/or referral log with a determined (POS) value and/or a type of service value. A referral request is generated, including a referral profile of a patient. A reduced dataset matching the referral profile is generated from a utilization dataset and/or a referral dataset. The method then calculates a POS utilization rate, an inbound re-referral rate, and/or additional values of a healthcare provider represented in the reduced dataset. A utilization ruleset and/or a referral ruleset is applied to score and/or rank the healthcare provider. A referral data including a UID of the healthcare provider is transmitted over a network from a server to a computing device running a point-of-care application. The referral is selected and automatically scheduled. | 1. A method for optimal determination of a healthcare referral provider, the method comprising:
determining generation of a healthcare utilization record comprising a patient UID of a first patient and a provider UID of a first healthcare provider; determining a place of service value associated with the healthcare utilization record; determining a type of service associated with the healthcare utilization record; generating a first utilization log comprising the provider UID of the first healthcare provider, a place of service value, a type of service value, and optionally comprising a utilization time associated with at least one of providing a healthcare service to the first patient and generation of the healthcare utilization record; initiating a referral request to refer a second patient of a second healthcare provider to a referral provider; generating a referral profile for the second patient, the referral profile comprising a place of service range, a type of service range, and optionally a time range, comparing the referral profile to a utilization dataset comprising a set of utilization logs extracted from a utilization database including the first utilization log; generating a reduced dataset comprising a subset of utilization logs extracted from the utilization dataset matching the referral profile; calculating, using the subset of utilization logs in the reduced dataset, a POS utilization rate of the first healthcare provider for each instance of the place of service value within the place of service range; applying a utilization ruleset to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the first healthcare provider based on criteria comprising the POS utilization rate; adding the provider UID of the first healthcare provider to a referral data; and transmitting the referral data over a network from a server to a computing device of the second healthcare provider running a point-of-care application, where the referral data is integrated within a user interface of a clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
querying a patient profile of the first patient with the patient UID of the first patient; and extracting from the patient profile of the first patient a patient data comprising at least one of a demographic data of the first patient, a coverage type of the first patient, and a diagnosis code of the first patient,
wherein the first utilization log further comprising the patient data,
wherein the referral profile further comprising a patient data range, and
wherein the patient data range comprising at least one of a demographic data of the second patient, a coverage type of the second patient, and a diagnosis code of the second patient. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising:
calculating, using a set of utilization logs of two or more healthcare providers within the utilization database, a POS utilization rate for each instance of the place of service value within the place of service range,
wherein at least one of the scoring, the ranking, and the qualifying of the first healthcare provider is based on criteria comprising the POS utilization rate of the first healthcare provider relative to a statistical average of the POS utilization rate calculated from the utilization database. 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising:
receiving a selection of the second healthcare provider from a clinician through the point-of-care application; and automatically scheduling an appointment for the second patient with the first healthcare provider. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
extracting from the patient profile of the second patient a location data associated with the second patient; and determining the second healthcare provider is within a predetermined distance based on the location data. 6. The method of claim 5,
wherein the utilization ruleset determines that an instance of the place of service value is a preferred instance of the place of service value based on criteria comprising the type of service. 7. The method of claim 6,
wherein the type of service value is at least one of a service category and a procedure code value, wherein the procedure code value is a CPT code value, wherein the place of service value is stored in computer memory as a POS code value, and wherein at least one of the place of service range, the type of service range, the patient data range, and the time range of the referral profile is selected by the clinician through the point-of-care application. 8. A method for maximizing healthcare referral outcomes, comprising:
detecting a first healthcare referral of a first patient, the first healthcare referral from a first healthcare provider to a second healthcare provider; generating a first referral log comprising a provider UID of the first healthcare provider, a provider UID of the second healthcare provider, a referral time of the first healthcare referral, and a type of service; storing the first referral log; detecting a second healthcare referral of the first patient, the second healthcare referral from the first healthcare provider to a third healthcare provider; generating a second referral log comprising the provider UID of the first healthcare provider, a provider UID of the third healthcare provider, a referral time of the second healthcare referral, and the type of service; storing the second referral log; determining a referral association between the first healthcare referral and the second healthcare referral; storing a first database association linking the second referral log and the first referral log; initiating a referral request to refer a second patient to a referral healthcare provider; generating a referral profile for the second patient, the referral profile comprising a type of service range and optionally a place of service range; comparing the referral profile to a referral dataset comprising a set of referral logs associated with the provider UID of the first healthcare provider; generating a reduced dataset comprising a subset of referral logs extracted from the referral dataset matching the referral profile,
wherein at least one of the first referral log and the second referral log matches the referral profile;
referencing a first time period value; calculating, using the subset of referral logs in the reduced dataset, an inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider within the first time period value; applying a referral ruleset to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the second healthcare provider based on criteria comprising the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider; and adding the provider UID of the second healthcare provider to a referral data. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
transmitting the referral data over a network from a server to a computing device of the second patient; receiving a selection of the second healthcare provider from the second patient on the computing device of the second patient; and automatically scheduling an appointment for the second patient with the first healthcare provider. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
querying a patient profile of the first patient with a patient UID of the first patient; and extracting from the patient profile of the first patient a patient data comprising at least one of a demographic data of the first patient, a coverage type of the first patient, and a diagnosis code of the first patient,
wherein at least one of the first referral log and the second referral log further comprising the patient data, and
wherein the referral profile further comprising a patient data range comprising at least one of a demographic data of the second patient, a coverage type of the second patient, and a diagnosis code of the second patient. 11. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
determining generation of a healthcare utilization record comprising a patient UID of the first patient and the provider UID of the second healthcare provider; generating a healthcare utilization log comprising the provider UID of the first healthcare provider, the type of service, and optionally comprising a place of service value and a utilization time associated with at least one of utilization of a healthcare service and generation of the healthcare utilization log; determining the healthcare utilization log of the first patient corresponds to the first referral log; storing a second database association linking the healthcare utilization log and at least one of the second referral log and the first referral log; and transmitting the referral data over a network from a server to a computing device of the second healthcare provider running a point-of-care application, where the referral data is integrated within a user interface of a clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
referencing a second time period value; determining the utilization time is within the second time period value; and reducing the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider. 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
calculating, using the subset of referral logs and a subset of utilization logs in the reduced dataset, a service-on-referral rate of the second healthcare provider,
wherein the referral ruleset applied to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the second healthcare provider is based on criteria further comprising the service-on-referral rate of the second healthcare provider. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
calculating a first instance of the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider,
wherein the second healthcare provider is an individual provider;
calculating a second instance of the inbound re-referral rate of a provider group to which the individual provider is associated; and generating a weighted instance of the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider based on the first instance of the inbound re-referral rate and the second instance of the inbound re-referral rate. 15. The method of claim 14,
wherein the first time period value is dependent on the type of service, wherein the type of service is a procedure code value, wherein the procedure code value is a CPT code value, wherein the place of service value is stored in computer memory as a POS code value, and wherein at least one of the place of service range, the type of service range, and a patient data range is selected by a clinician through the point-of-care application. 16. A system, comprising:
a log server comprising:
a processor of the log server,
a memory of the log server,
a set of healthcare utilization logs, each comprising the provider UID of a healthcare provider, one or more instances of a type of service value, and one or more instances of a place of service value,
a set of healthcare referral logs each comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider as a referral provider, a provider UID of a referring provider, one or more instances of the type of service value, and one or more instances of the place of service value,
a first set of database associations associating one or more of the set of healthcare utilization logs with one or more of the set of healthcare referral logs,
a second set of database associations associating one or more of the set of healthcare referral logs with one or more of a different set of healthcare referral logs from the referring provider to a different healthcare provider as a different referral provider,
a referral server, comprising:
a referral request agent comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
receives a referral request to refer a patient for healthcare services; and
at least one of generates and receives a referral profile;
a profile matching engine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
compares the referral profile to the set of healthcare referral logs and the set of healthcare utilization logs; and
determines matching instances of the set of healthcare utilization logs and the set of referral logs to the referral profile;
a dataset reduction subroutine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
generates a reduced dataset comprising a subset of the set of utilization logs and a subset of the set of referral logs matching the referral profile;
a utilization rate routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
calculates, using the subset of utilization logs in the reduced dataset, a POS utilization rate of a referral healthcare provider for each instance of the place of service value;
a referral rate routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
calculates, using the subset of referral logs in the reduced dataset, an inbound re-referral rate of the referral healthcare provider;
a hybrid ruleset specifying criteria for to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the healthcare provider based on criteria comprising the POS utilization rate and the inbound re-referral rate,
a referral generation subroutine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
generates a referral data comprising the provider UID of the referral provider, a name of the referral provider, and optionally a referral evaluation data comprising at least one of a score, a rank, and a qualification resulting from application of the hybrid ruleset on the reduced dataset, and
a network. 17. The system of claim 16, further comprising:
a record server, comprising:
a processor of the record server,
a memory of the record server, and
a claim database comprising a healthcare utilization record comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider as the referral provider, and at least one of the type of service value and the place of service value,
wherein the log server further comprising:
a referral extraction routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
determines the provider UID of the healthcare provider as the referral provider,
determines the provider UID of the referring provider,
determines the type of service value,
determines one or more instances of the place of service value; and
a utilization extraction routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
determines the provider UID of the healthcare provider,
determines a place of service value based on data of the healthcare utilization record, and
determines the type of service value based on data of the healthcare utilization record. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the log server further comprising:
a log storage module comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
generates a healthcare referral log comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider and the type of service value; and
generates a first utilization log comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider, the place of service value, and the type of service value; and
a log association system comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
determines associations between at least one of (i) a healthcare utilization log and a healthcare referral logs, and (ii) the healthcare referral log and a different healthcare referral log,
stores a pointer associating at least one of (i) the healthcare utilization log with the healthcare referral logs, and (ii) the healthcare referral log with the different healthcare referral log. 19. The system of claim 18, further comprising:
a computing device comprising:
a processor of the computing device,
a memory of the computing device,
a point-of-care application comprising a referral request routine enabling a clinician to initiate a healthcare referral of the patient within a clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application,
a referral profile generation routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the computing device
initiates the referral profile: and
stores in the referral profile a place of service range and optionally a type of service range, a patient data range, and a time range,
an integration routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the computing device:
receives the referral data from the referral server; and
displays the referral data in the clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application; and
a referral selection routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the computing device:
receives a selection of the healthcare provider from the clinician; and
returns the provider UID of the healthcare provider over the network. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein
at least one of the set of healthcare referral logs and at least one of the set of healthcare utilization logs comprising at least one of a demographic data, a coverage type, and a diagnosis code, the referral profile comprising a patient UID, and the log server, further comprises:
a patient query engine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
queries a profile of the patient; and
receives at least one of a demographic data of the patient, a coverage type of the patient, and a diagnosis code of the patient. | Disclosed is a method, a device, a system and/or a manufacture of maximizing patient referral outcome through healthcare utilization and/or referral record evaluation. In one embodiment, a method includes generating a healthcare utilization log and/or referral log with a determined (POS) value and/or a type of service value. A referral request is generated, including a referral profile of a patient. A reduced dataset matching the referral profile is generated from a utilization dataset and/or a referral dataset. The method then calculates a POS utilization rate, an inbound re-referral rate, and/or additional values of a healthcare provider represented in the reduced dataset. A utilization ruleset and/or a referral ruleset is applied to score and/or rank the healthcare provider. A referral data including a UID of the healthcare provider is transmitted over a network from a server to a computing device running a point-of-care application. The referral is selected and automatically scheduled.1. A method for optimal determination of a healthcare referral provider, the method comprising:
determining generation of a healthcare utilization record comprising a patient UID of a first patient and a provider UID of a first healthcare provider; determining a place of service value associated with the healthcare utilization record; determining a type of service associated with the healthcare utilization record; generating a first utilization log comprising the provider UID of the first healthcare provider, a place of service value, a type of service value, and optionally comprising a utilization time associated with at least one of providing a healthcare service to the first patient and generation of the healthcare utilization record; initiating a referral request to refer a second patient of a second healthcare provider to a referral provider; generating a referral profile for the second patient, the referral profile comprising a place of service range, a type of service range, and optionally a time range, comparing the referral profile to a utilization dataset comprising a set of utilization logs extracted from a utilization database including the first utilization log; generating a reduced dataset comprising a subset of utilization logs extracted from the utilization dataset matching the referral profile; calculating, using the subset of utilization logs in the reduced dataset, a POS utilization rate of the first healthcare provider for each instance of the place of service value within the place of service range; applying a utilization ruleset to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the first healthcare provider based on criteria comprising the POS utilization rate; adding the provider UID of the first healthcare provider to a referral data; and transmitting the referral data over a network from a server to a computing device of the second healthcare provider running a point-of-care application, where the referral data is integrated within a user interface of a clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
querying a patient profile of the first patient with the patient UID of the first patient; and extracting from the patient profile of the first patient a patient data comprising at least one of a demographic data of the first patient, a coverage type of the first patient, and a diagnosis code of the first patient,
wherein the first utilization log further comprising the patient data,
wherein the referral profile further comprising a patient data range, and
wherein the patient data range comprising at least one of a demographic data of the second patient, a coverage type of the second patient, and a diagnosis code of the second patient. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising:
calculating, using a set of utilization logs of two or more healthcare providers within the utilization database, a POS utilization rate for each instance of the place of service value within the place of service range,
wherein at least one of the scoring, the ranking, and the qualifying of the first healthcare provider is based on criteria comprising the POS utilization rate of the first healthcare provider relative to a statistical average of the POS utilization rate calculated from the utilization database. 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising:
receiving a selection of the second healthcare provider from a clinician through the point-of-care application; and automatically scheduling an appointment for the second patient with the first healthcare provider. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
extracting from the patient profile of the second patient a location data associated with the second patient; and determining the second healthcare provider is within a predetermined distance based on the location data. 6. The method of claim 5,
wherein the utilization ruleset determines that an instance of the place of service value is a preferred instance of the place of service value based on criteria comprising the type of service. 7. The method of claim 6,
wherein the type of service value is at least one of a service category and a procedure code value, wherein the procedure code value is a CPT code value, wherein the place of service value is stored in computer memory as a POS code value, and wherein at least one of the place of service range, the type of service range, the patient data range, and the time range of the referral profile is selected by the clinician through the point-of-care application. 8. A method for maximizing healthcare referral outcomes, comprising:
detecting a first healthcare referral of a first patient, the first healthcare referral from a first healthcare provider to a second healthcare provider; generating a first referral log comprising a provider UID of the first healthcare provider, a provider UID of the second healthcare provider, a referral time of the first healthcare referral, and a type of service; storing the first referral log; detecting a second healthcare referral of the first patient, the second healthcare referral from the first healthcare provider to a third healthcare provider; generating a second referral log comprising the provider UID of the first healthcare provider, a provider UID of the third healthcare provider, a referral time of the second healthcare referral, and the type of service; storing the second referral log; determining a referral association between the first healthcare referral and the second healthcare referral; storing a first database association linking the second referral log and the first referral log; initiating a referral request to refer a second patient to a referral healthcare provider; generating a referral profile for the second patient, the referral profile comprising a type of service range and optionally a place of service range; comparing the referral profile to a referral dataset comprising a set of referral logs associated with the provider UID of the first healthcare provider; generating a reduced dataset comprising a subset of referral logs extracted from the referral dataset matching the referral profile,
wherein at least one of the first referral log and the second referral log matches the referral profile;
referencing a first time period value; calculating, using the subset of referral logs in the reduced dataset, an inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider within the first time period value; applying a referral ruleset to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the second healthcare provider based on criteria comprising the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider; and adding the provider UID of the second healthcare provider to a referral data. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
transmitting the referral data over a network from a server to a computing device of the second patient; receiving a selection of the second healthcare provider from the second patient on the computing device of the second patient; and automatically scheduling an appointment for the second patient with the first healthcare provider. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
querying a patient profile of the first patient with a patient UID of the first patient; and extracting from the patient profile of the first patient a patient data comprising at least one of a demographic data of the first patient, a coverage type of the first patient, and a diagnosis code of the first patient,
wherein at least one of the first referral log and the second referral log further comprising the patient data, and
wherein the referral profile further comprising a patient data range comprising at least one of a demographic data of the second patient, a coverage type of the second patient, and a diagnosis code of the second patient. 11. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
determining generation of a healthcare utilization record comprising a patient UID of the first patient and the provider UID of the second healthcare provider; generating a healthcare utilization log comprising the provider UID of the first healthcare provider, the type of service, and optionally comprising a place of service value and a utilization time associated with at least one of utilization of a healthcare service and generation of the healthcare utilization log; determining the healthcare utilization log of the first patient corresponds to the first referral log; storing a second database association linking the healthcare utilization log and at least one of the second referral log and the first referral log; and transmitting the referral data over a network from a server to a computing device of the second healthcare provider running a point-of-care application, where the referral data is integrated within a user interface of a clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
referencing a second time period value; determining the utilization time is within the second time period value; and reducing the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider. 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
calculating, using the subset of referral logs and a subset of utilization logs in the reduced dataset, a service-on-referral rate of the second healthcare provider,
wherein the referral ruleset applied to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the second healthcare provider is based on criteria further comprising the service-on-referral rate of the second healthcare provider. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
calculating a first instance of the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider,
wherein the second healthcare provider is an individual provider;
calculating a second instance of the inbound re-referral rate of a provider group to which the individual provider is associated; and generating a weighted instance of the inbound re-referral rate of the second healthcare provider based on the first instance of the inbound re-referral rate and the second instance of the inbound re-referral rate. 15. The method of claim 14,
wherein the first time period value is dependent on the type of service, wherein the type of service is a procedure code value, wherein the procedure code value is a CPT code value, wherein the place of service value is stored in computer memory as a POS code value, and wherein at least one of the place of service range, the type of service range, and a patient data range is selected by a clinician through the point-of-care application. 16. A system, comprising:
a log server comprising:
a processor of the log server,
a memory of the log server,
a set of healthcare utilization logs, each comprising the provider UID of a healthcare provider, one or more instances of a type of service value, and one or more instances of a place of service value,
a set of healthcare referral logs each comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider as a referral provider, a provider UID of a referring provider, one or more instances of the type of service value, and one or more instances of the place of service value,
a first set of database associations associating one or more of the set of healthcare utilization logs with one or more of the set of healthcare referral logs,
a second set of database associations associating one or more of the set of healthcare referral logs with one or more of a different set of healthcare referral logs from the referring provider to a different healthcare provider as a different referral provider,
a referral server, comprising:
a referral request agent comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
receives a referral request to refer a patient for healthcare services; and
at least one of generates and receives a referral profile;
a profile matching engine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
compares the referral profile to the set of healthcare referral logs and the set of healthcare utilization logs; and
determines matching instances of the set of healthcare utilization logs and the set of referral logs to the referral profile;
a dataset reduction subroutine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
generates a reduced dataset comprising a subset of the set of utilization logs and a subset of the set of referral logs matching the referral profile;
a utilization rate routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
calculates, using the subset of utilization logs in the reduced dataset, a POS utilization rate of a referral healthcare provider for each instance of the place of service value;
a referral rate routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
calculates, using the subset of referral logs in the reduced dataset, an inbound re-referral rate of the referral healthcare provider;
a hybrid ruleset specifying criteria for to at least one of score, rank, and qualify the healthcare provider based on criteria comprising the POS utilization rate and the inbound re-referral rate,
a referral generation subroutine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the of the referral server:
generates a referral data comprising the provider UID of the referral provider, a name of the referral provider, and optionally a referral evaluation data comprising at least one of a score, a rank, and a qualification resulting from application of the hybrid ruleset on the reduced dataset, and
a network. 17. The system of claim 16, further comprising:
a record server, comprising:
a processor of the record server,
a memory of the record server, and
a claim database comprising a healthcare utilization record comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider as the referral provider, and at least one of the type of service value and the place of service value,
wherein the log server further comprising:
a referral extraction routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
determines the provider UID of the healthcare provider as the referral provider,
determines the provider UID of the referring provider,
determines the type of service value,
determines one or more instances of the place of service value; and
a utilization extraction routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
determines the provider UID of the healthcare provider,
determines a place of service value based on data of the healthcare utilization record, and
determines the type of service value based on data of the healthcare utilization record. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the log server further comprising:
a log storage module comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
generates a healthcare referral log comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider and the type of service value; and
generates a first utilization log comprising the provider UID of the healthcare provider, the place of service value, and the type of service value; and
a log association system comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
determines associations between at least one of (i) a healthcare utilization log and a healthcare referral logs, and (ii) the healthcare referral log and a different healthcare referral log,
stores a pointer associating at least one of (i) the healthcare utilization log with the healthcare referral logs, and (ii) the healthcare referral log with the different healthcare referral log. 19. The system of claim 18, further comprising:
a computing device comprising:
a processor of the computing device,
a memory of the computing device,
a point-of-care application comprising a referral request routine enabling a clinician to initiate a healthcare referral of the patient within a clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application,
a referral profile generation routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the computing device
initiates the referral profile: and
stores in the referral profile a place of service range and optionally a type of service range, a patient data range, and a time range,
an integration routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the computing device:
receives the referral data from the referral server; and
displays the referral data in the clinical documentation workflow of the point-of-care application; and
a referral selection routine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the computing device:
receives a selection of the healthcare provider from the clinician; and
returns the provider UID of the healthcare provider over the network. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein
at least one of the set of healthcare referral logs and at least one of the set of healthcare utilization logs comprising at least one of a demographic data, a coverage type, and a diagnosis code, the referral profile comprising a patient UID, and the log server, further comprises:
a patient query engine comprising computer readable instructions that when executed on the processor of the log server:
queries a profile of the patient; and
receives at least one of a demographic data of the patient, a coverage type of the patient, and a diagnosis code of the patient. | 3,600 |
341,378 | 16,801,720 | 3,626 | A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together. The weld nut has a nut body with a threaded central bore passing through the nut body. A weld flange projects outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body. A circular pilot extends from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. The plate components each have a joining hole formed therein. The bolt connector has a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread. The weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole. The threaded shaft portion engages the threaded central bore to join the plate components. | 1. A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together, the weld nut comprising:
a nut body having a threaded central bore passing through the nut body; a weld flange projecting outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body; and a circular pilot extending from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. 2. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the nut body has a hexagonal shape. 3. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the weld flange has a flat mating surface configured to engage a surface of an adjacent plate component. 4. An assembly including the weld nut of claim 1, the assembly also comprising a bolt connector and first and second plate components, the first and second plate components each having a joining hole formed therein, wherein the bolt connector has a head portion and a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread, wherein the head portion has an outer diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the joining holes in the first and second plate components, wherein the weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole in the second plate component, and the threaded shaft portion is configured to engage the threaded central bore in the weld nut to join the first and second plate components. | A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together. The weld nut has a nut body with a threaded central bore passing through the nut body. A weld flange projects outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body. A circular pilot extends from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. The plate components each have a joining hole formed therein. The bolt connector has a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread. The weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole. The threaded shaft portion engages the threaded central bore to join the plate components.1. A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together, the weld nut comprising:
a nut body having a threaded central bore passing through the nut body; a weld flange projecting outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body; and a circular pilot extending from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. 2. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the nut body has a hexagonal shape. 3. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the weld flange has a flat mating surface configured to engage a surface of an adjacent plate component. 4. An assembly including the weld nut of claim 1, the assembly also comprising a bolt connector and first and second plate components, the first and second plate components each having a joining hole formed therein, wherein the bolt connector has a head portion and a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread, wherein the head portion has an outer diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the joining holes in the first and second plate components, wherein the weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole in the second plate component, and the threaded shaft portion is configured to engage the threaded central bore in the weld nut to join the first and second plate components. | 3,600 |
341,379 | 16,801,702 | 3,626 | A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together. The weld nut has a nut body with a threaded central bore passing through the nut body. A weld flange projects outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body. A circular pilot extends from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. The plate components each have a joining hole formed therein. The bolt connector has a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread. The weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole. The threaded shaft portion engages the threaded central bore to join the plate components. | 1. A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together, the weld nut comprising:
a nut body having a threaded central bore passing through the nut body; a weld flange projecting outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body; and a circular pilot extending from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. 2. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the nut body has a hexagonal shape. 3. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the weld flange has a flat mating surface configured to engage a surface of an adjacent plate component. 4. An assembly including the weld nut of claim 1, the assembly also comprising a bolt connector and first and second plate components, the first and second plate components each having a joining hole formed therein, wherein the bolt connector has a head portion and a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread, wherein the head portion has an outer diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the joining holes in the first and second plate components, wherein the weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole in the second plate component, and the threaded shaft portion is configured to engage the threaded central bore in the weld nut to join the first and second plate components. | A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together. The weld nut has a nut body with a threaded central bore passing through the nut body. A weld flange projects outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body. A circular pilot extends from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. The plate components each have a joining hole formed therein. The bolt connector has a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread. The weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole. The threaded shaft portion engages the threaded central bore to join the plate components.1. A weld nut for use with a bolt connector configured to extend through preformed holes in two or more plate components that are to be jointed together, the weld nut comprising:
a nut body having a threaded central bore passing through the nut body; a weld flange projecting outwardly from a central axis of the weld nut, the weld flange forming a surface area radially outwardly of and surrounding the nut body; and a circular pilot extending from the weld flange along the central axis around the central bore. 2. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the nut body has a hexagonal shape. 3. The weld nut of claim 1 wherein the weld flange has a flat mating surface configured to engage a surface of an adjacent plate component. 4. An assembly including the weld nut of claim 1, the assembly also comprising a bolt connector and first and second plate components, the first and second plate components each having a joining hole formed therein, wherein the bolt connector has a head portion and a threaded shaft portion having an external surface thread, wherein the head portion has an outer diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the joining holes in the first and second plate components, wherein the weld nut is centered over the joining hole in the second plate component with the pilot inserted into the joining hole in the second plate component, and the threaded shaft portion is configured to engage the threaded central bore in the weld nut to join the first and second plate components. | 3,600 |
341,380 | 16,801,722 | 3,626 | Methods and systems for collecting and analyzing sensor data to predict water fixture failure and water consumption are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes receiving sensor data regarding a water fixture. Changepoints may then be calculated within the sensor data and the sensor data may be split into intervals at the changepoints. A machine learning model may then be used to classify the intervals and a status of the water fixture and water consumption may be identified based on the classified intervals. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving sensor data regarding a water fixture; calculating changepoints within the sensor data; splitting the sensor data into intervals at the changepoints; classifying the intervals using a machine learning model; and predicting a status of the water fixture based on the classified intervals. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the status includes one or more of a nominal state of the water fixture, a failure state of the water fixture, a disuse state of the water fixture, a seasonal disuse state of the water fixture, current water consumption of the water fixture, and predicted water consumption of the water fixture. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the sensor data includes a condensed data stream from a sensor corresponding to the water fixture, and wherein the method further comprises:
receiving a high-frequency data stream of sensor measurements from the sensor; and generating the condensed data stream based on the high-frequency data stream. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein calculating the changepoints includes:
calculating a first z-score for a first segment of the sensor data and a second z-score for a second segment of the sensor data; determining that a difference between the first and second z-scores exceeds a predetermined threshold; and identifying a changepoint between the first segment and the second segment. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the predetermined threshold is remotely updated at least in part based on the sensor data. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein splitting the sensor data into intervals includes splitting the sensor data into intervals that include at least one overlapping data point with at least one adjacent intervals. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the status includes at least one of a flow rate through the water fixture and a water abstraction by the water fixture. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the status includes at least one water infrastructure measure for a region selected from the group consisting of previous rainfall in the region, predicted future rainfall in the region, groundwater availability in the region, surface water available in the region, and a likelihood of drought within the region. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving weather data, and wherein the status of the water fixture is predicted at least in part based on the weather data. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving satellite image data, and wherein the status of the water fixture is predicted at least in part based on the satellite image data. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the sensor data is associated with a plurality of water fixtures, and wherein predicting the status includes predicting a plurality of statuses for at least a subset of the plurality of water fixtures. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the machine learning model is trained to compensate for at least one of sensor drift and background noise within the sensor data over time. 13. A system comprising:
a processor; and a memory storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
receive sensor data regarding a water fixture;
calculate changepoints within the sensor data;
split the sensor data into intervals at the changepoints;
classify the intervals using a machine learning model; and
predict a status of the water fixture based on the classified intervals. 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the status includes one or more of a nominal state of the water fixture, a failure state of the water fixture, a disuse state of the water fixture, a seasonal disuse state of the water fixture, current water consumption of the water fixture, and predicted water consumption of the water fixture. 15. The system of claim 12, wherein the sensor data includes a condensed data stream from a sensor corresponding to the water fixture, and wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
receive a high-frequency data stream of sensor measurements from the sensor; and generate the condensed data stream based on the high-frequency data stream. 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor while calculating the changepoints, cause the processor to:
calculate a first z-score for a first segment of the sensor data and a second z-score for a second segment of the sensor data; determine that a difference between the first and second z-scores exceeds a predetermined threshold; and identify a changepoint between the first segment and the second segment. 17. The system of claim 12, wherein the status includes at least one water infrastructure measure for a region selected from the group consisting of previous rainfall in the region, predicted future rainfall in the region, groundwater availability in the region, surface water available in the region, and a likelihood of drought within the region. 18. The system of claim 12, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to receive additional data including at least one of weather data and satellite image data, and wherein the status of the water fixture is predicted at least in part based on the additional data. 19. The system of claim 12, wherein the sensor data is associated with a plurality of water fixtures, and wherein predicting the status includes predicting a plurality of statuses for at least a subset of the plurality of water fixtures. 20. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
receive sensor data regarding a water fixture; calculate changepoints within the sensor data; split the sensor data into intervals at the changepoints; classify the intervals using a machine learning model; and predict a status of the water fixture based on the classified intervals. | Methods and systems for collecting and analyzing sensor data to predict water fixture failure and water consumption are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes receiving sensor data regarding a water fixture. Changepoints may then be calculated within the sensor data and the sensor data may be split into intervals at the changepoints. A machine learning model may then be used to classify the intervals and a status of the water fixture and water consumption may be identified based on the classified intervals.1. A method comprising:
receiving sensor data regarding a water fixture; calculating changepoints within the sensor data; splitting the sensor data into intervals at the changepoints; classifying the intervals using a machine learning model; and predicting a status of the water fixture based on the classified intervals. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the status includes one or more of a nominal state of the water fixture, a failure state of the water fixture, a disuse state of the water fixture, a seasonal disuse state of the water fixture, current water consumption of the water fixture, and predicted water consumption of the water fixture. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the sensor data includes a condensed data stream from a sensor corresponding to the water fixture, and wherein the method further comprises:
receiving a high-frequency data stream of sensor measurements from the sensor; and generating the condensed data stream based on the high-frequency data stream. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein calculating the changepoints includes:
calculating a first z-score for a first segment of the sensor data and a second z-score for a second segment of the sensor data; determining that a difference between the first and second z-scores exceeds a predetermined threshold; and identifying a changepoint between the first segment and the second segment. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the predetermined threshold is remotely updated at least in part based on the sensor data. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein splitting the sensor data into intervals includes splitting the sensor data into intervals that include at least one overlapping data point with at least one adjacent intervals. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the status includes at least one of a flow rate through the water fixture and a water abstraction by the water fixture. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the status includes at least one water infrastructure measure for a region selected from the group consisting of previous rainfall in the region, predicted future rainfall in the region, groundwater availability in the region, surface water available in the region, and a likelihood of drought within the region. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving weather data, and wherein the status of the water fixture is predicted at least in part based on the weather data. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving satellite image data, and wherein the status of the water fixture is predicted at least in part based on the satellite image data. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the sensor data is associated with a plurality of water fixtures, and wherein predicting the status includes predicting a plurality of statuses for at least a subset of the plurality of water fixtures. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the machine learning model is trained to compensate for at least one of sensor drift and background noise within the sensor data over time. 13. A system comprising:
a processor; and a memory storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
receive sensor data regarding a water fixture;
calculate changepoints within the sensor data;
split the sensor data into intervals at the changepoints;
classify the intervals using a machine learning model; and
predict a status of the water fixture based on the classified intervals. 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the status includes one or more of a nominal state of the water fixture, a failure state of the water fixture, a disuse state of the water fixture, a seasonal disuse state of the water fixture, current water consumption of the water fixture, and predicted water consumption of the water fixture. 15. The system of claim 12, wherein the sensor data includes a condensed data stream from a sensor corresponding to the water fixture, and wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
receive a high-frequency data stream of sensor measurements from the sensor; and generate the condensed data stream based on the high-frequency data stream. 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor while calculating the changepoints, cause the processor to:
calculate a first z-score for a first segment of the sensor data and a second z-score for a second segment of the sensor data; determine that a difference between the first and second z-scores exceeds a predetermined threshold; and identify a changepoint between the first segment and the second segment. 17. The system of claim 12, wherein the status includes at least one water infrastructure measure for a region selected from the group consisting of previous rainfall in the region, predicted future rainfall in the region, groundwater availability in the region, surface water available in the region, and a likelihood of drought within the region. 18. The system of claim 12, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to receive additional data including at least one of weather data and satellite image data, and wherein the status of the water fixture is predicted at least in part based on the additional data. 19. The system of claim 12, wherein the sensor data is associated with a plurality of water fixtures, and wherein predicting the status includes predicting a plurality of statuses for at least a subset of the plurality of water fixtures. 20. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
receive sensor data regarding a water fixture; calculate changepoints within the sensor data; split the sensor data into intervals at the changepoints; classify the intervals using a machine learning model; and predict a status of the water fixture based on the classified intervals. | 3,600 |
341,381 | 16,801,690 | 3,626 | A sensor system can comprise a detector with a plurality of units, wherein the detector is configured to generate a first set of electrical signals based on received photon energy of a light beam that is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects, in a first configuration. Additionally, the detector is configured to generate a second set of electrical signals based on received photon energy of a light beam that is reflected back from a second plurality of points on one or more objects in a second configuration, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration are with a predetermined correlation. Furthermore, the detector can determine distance to each of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals. | 1. A method for sensing one or more objects using a detector with a plurality of detection units, comprising:
generating, via the detector, a first set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a first light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a first configuration, wherein the first light beam is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects; generating, via the detector, a second set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a second light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a second configuration, wherein the second light beam is reflected back from a second plurality of points on the one or more objects, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration are different; and determining, via a data processor, distance information of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the detector is configured at a first spatial location relative to received light in the first configuration, and the detector is configured at a second spatial location relative to received light in the second configuration, and wherein the first spatial location and the second spatial location are different. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first set of electrical signals corresponds to a first set of pixels, and the second set of electrical signals corresponds to a second set of pixels. 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising: switching the plurality of detection units between the first configuration and the second configuration to cause a pixel shift between the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the pixel shift between the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels is about a fraction of a pixel size in at least one of a column direction or a row direction of the plurality of detection units. 6. The method of claim 3, further comprising: generating, via the data processor, a resultant data frame with a higher resolution based on the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels. 7. The method of claim 3, further comprising generating, via the data processor, a resultant data frame based on a first data frame associated with the first set of pixels and a second data frame associated with the second set of pixels. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first light beam and the second light beam are generated by one or more light sources. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the first light beam and the second light beam have wavelengths of about 905 nm or about 1550 nm. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the first light beam and the second light beam have different optical paths. 11. (canceled) 12. (canceled) 13. The method of claim 1, wherein a planar plate lens is arranged in front of the detector, and the planar plate lens is configured to be at a first angle relative to incoming light in the first configuration and is configured to be at a second angle relative to incoming light in the second configuration. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein one of the first angle or the second angle is substantially a vertical angle. 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the distance information of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects is measured based on time-of-flight (TOF) information or a time-frequency relationship. 16. A sensor system, comprising:
a detector with a plurality of detection units; and a data processor, wherein the detector is configured to
generate a first set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a first light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a first configuration, wherein the first light beam is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects; and
generate a second set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a second light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a second configuration, wherein the second light beam is reflected back from a second plurality of points on the one or more objects, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration have a predetermined correlation, and
wherein the data processor is configured to:
determine distance information for atoll each of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals. 17. The sensor system of claim 16, wherein the sensor system further comprises a planar plate lens arranged in front of the detector. 18. The sensor system of claim 17, wherein the planar plate lens is configured to be at a first angle relative to incoming light in the first configuration and is configured to be at a second angle relative to incoming light in the second configuration. 19. The sensor system of claim 18, wherein one of the first angle and the second angle is substantially a vertical angle. 20. A non-transitory computer-readable medium with instructions stored thereon, that when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform steps comprising:
generating, via a detector with a plurality of detections units, a first set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a first light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a first configuration, wherein the first light beam is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects; generating, via the detector, a second set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a second light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a second configuration, wherein the second light beam is reflected back from a second plurality of points on the one or more objects, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration are different; and determining, via a data processor, distance information of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals. 21. The method of claim 7, wherein the resultant data frame is generated using a data fusion technique. 22. The method of claim 7, further comprising:
generating, via the data processor, the resultant data frame by averaging the distance information corresponding to overlapped pixels in the first data frame and the second data frame, when a pixel size of the first data frame is greater than a pixel pitch size of the first data frame; or generating, via the data processor, the resultant data frame by merging the first data frame and the second data frame, when the pixel size of the first data frame is no greater than the pixel pitch size of the first data frame. | A sensor system can comprise a detector with a plurality of units, wherein the detector is configured to generate a first set of electrical signals based on received photon energy of a light beam that is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects, in a first configuration. Additionally, the detector is configured to generate a second set of electrical signals based on received photon energy of a light beam that is reflected back from a second plurality of points on one or more objects in a second configuration, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration are with a predetermined correlation. Furthermore, the detector can determine distance to each of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals.1. A method for sensing one or more objects using a detector with a plurality of detection units, comprising:
generating, via the detector, a first set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a first light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a first configuration, wherein the first light beam is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects; generating, via the detector, a second set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a second light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a second configuration, wherein the second light beam is reflected back from a second plurality of points on the one or more objects, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration are different; and determining, via a data processor, distance information of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the detector is configured at a first spatial location relative to received light in the first configuration, and the detector is configured at a second spatial location relative to received light in the second configuration, and wherein the first spatial location and the second spatial location are different. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first set of electrical signals corresponds to a first set of pixels, and the second set of electrical signals corresponds to a second set of pixels. 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising: switching the plurality of detection units between the first configuration and the second configuration to cause a pixel shift between the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the pixel shift between the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels is about a fraction of a pixel size in at least one of a column direction or a row direction of the plurality of detection units. 6. The method of claim 3, further comprising: generating, via the data processor, a resultant data frame with a higher resolution based on the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels. 7. The method of claim 3, further comprising generating, via the data processor, a resultant data frame based on a first data frame associated with the first set of pixels and a second data frame associated with the second set of pixels. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first light beam and the second light beam are generated by one or more light sources. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the first light beam and the second light beam have wavelengths of about 905 nm or about 1550 nm. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the first light beam and the second light beam have different optical paths. 11. (canceled) 12. (canceled) 13. The method of claim 1, wherein a planar plate lens is arranged in front of the detector, and the planar plate lens is configured to be at a first angle relative to incoming light in the first configuration and is configured to be at a second angle relative to incoming light in the second configuration. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein one of the first angle or the second angle is substantially a vertical angle. 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the distance information of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects is measured based on time-of-flight (TOF) information or a time-frequency relationship. 16. A sensor system, comprising:
a detector with a plurality of detection units; and a data processor, wherein the detector is configured to
generate a first set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a first light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a first configuration, wherein the first light beam is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects; and
generate a second set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a second light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a second configuration, wherein the second light beam is reflected back from a second plurality of points on the one or more objects, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration have a predetermined correlation, and
wherein the data processor is configured to:
determine distance information for atoll each of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals. 17. The sensor system of claim 16, wherein the sensor system further comprises a planar plate lens arranged in front of the detector. 18. The sensor system of claim 17, wherein the planar plate lens is configured to be at a first angle relative to incoming light in the first configuration and is configured to be at a second angle relative to incoming light in the second configuration. 19. The sensor system of claim 18, wherein one of the first angle and the second angle is substantially a vertical angle. 20. A non-transitory computer-readable medium with instructions stored thereon, that when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform steps comprising:
generating, via a detector with a plurality of detections units, a first set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a first light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a first configuration, wherein the first light beam is reflected back from a first plurality of points on one or more objects; generating, via the detector, a second set of electrical signals based on photon energy of a second light beam received by the plurality of detection units in a second configuration, wherein the second light beam is reflected back from a second plurality of points on the one or more objects, wherein the first configuration and the second configuration are different; and determining, via a data processor, distance information of the first plurality of points and the second plurality of points on the one or more objects based on the first set of electrical signals and the second set of electrical signals. 21. The method of claim 7, wherein the resultant data frame is generated using a data fusion technique. 22. The method of claim 7, further comprising:
generating, via the data processor, the resultant data frame by averaging the distance information corresponding to overlapped pixels in the first data frame and the second data frame, when a pixel size of the first data frame is greater than a pixel pitch size of the first data frame; or generating, via the data processor, the resultant data frame by merging the first data frame and the second data frame, when the pixel size of the first data frame is no greater than the pixel pitch size of the first data frame. | 3,600 |
341,382 | 16,801,686 | 3,626 | A machine learning model selector is provided. A set of machine learning (ML) models are trained based on a first training dataset. The set of trained ML model is executed on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset. For each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of ML models is generated based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the set of ML models. A ML model selector is trained based on the data instances in the set of data instances and the corresponding ranking of ML models, to select a trained ML model based on an input data instance. | 1. A method, in a data processing system comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, the memory comprising instructions executed by the at least one processor to cause the at least one processor to execute the method comprising:
training a set of machine learning models based on a first training dataset to generate a plurality of trained machine learning models; executing the set of trained machine learning models on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset; generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of machine learning models in the set of machine learning models based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the machine learning models in the set of machine learning models; training a machine learning model selector, based on the set of data instances in the second training dataset and the corresponding ranking of machine learning models for each of the data instances in the set of data instances, to select a trained machine learning model, from the set of trained machine learning models, based on an input data instance; and selecting, by the machine learning model selector, for a new input data instance, a trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models comprises, for each data instance in the set of data instances, and each trained machine learning model in the set of trained machine learning models:
processing the data instance as an input to the trained machine learning model to generate a classification output comprising a classification and an associated confidence value; and generating a ranking score of the trained machine learning model based on a function of the classification and the associated confidence value, wherein the ranking of machine learning models for the data instance is generated based on a comparison of the ranking scores of each of the trained machine learning models for the data instance. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the ranking score of the trained machine learning model is further generated based on a function of a risk of misprediction indicative of a security risk if a corresponding classification is incorrect. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a plurality of machine learning model classes based on results of generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models, and wherein the trained machine learning model is selected from the set of trained machine learning models based on a classification of the new input data instance into a machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein each machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes comprises one or more data instances for which a same corresponding machine learning model is a highest ranking machine learning model. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting, for the new input data instance, the trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models, to process the new input data instance comprises selecting a subset of two or more trained machine learning models from the set of trained machine learning models for inclusion in an ensemble of trained machine learning models. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising generating the ensemble of trained machine learning models based on the selection of the subset of two or more trained machine learning models and logic configured to combine outputs of the two or more trained machine learning models to generate a single classification output of the ensemble. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the selection of the trained machine learning model is performed dynamically for each new input data instance in a plurality of different new input data instances, in response to receiving each new input data instance, and wherein for at least two new input data instances, the selected trained machine learning models for the at least two new input data instances are different from one another. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
processing, by the selected trained machine learning model, the new input data instance to generate a classification output classifying the new input data instance into one of a plurality of predetermined classifications; outputting, by the selected trained machine learning model, the classification output to a security information and event management (SIEM) computing system; and performing, by the STEM computing system, a security operation based on the classification output. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the new input data instance is a security log in a plurality of security logs of a security log data structure obtained from a monitored computing system environment, and wherein the trained machine learning models in the plurality of trained machine learning models are trained to classify security logs as either CLOSE or ESCALATE. 11. A computer program product comprising a computer readable storage medium having a computer readable program stored therein, wherein the computer readable program, when executed on a computing device, causes the computing device to:
train a set of machine learning models based on a first training dataset to generate a plurality of trained machine learning models; execute the set of trained machine learning models on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset; generate, for each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of machine learning models in the set of machine learning models based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the machine learning models in the set of machine learning models; train a machine learning model selector, based on the set of data instances in the second training dataset and the corresponding ranking of machine learning models for each of the data instances in the set of data instances, to select a trained machine learning model, from the set of trained machine learning models, based on an input data instance; and select, by the machine learning model selector, for a new input data instance, a trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to generate, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models at least by, for each data instance in the set of data instances, and each trained machine learning model in the set of trained machine learning models:
processing the data instance as an input to the trained machine learning model to generate a classification output comprising a classification and an associated confidence value; and generating a ranking score of the trained machine learning model based on a function of the classification and the associated confidence value, wherein the ranking of machine learning models for the data instance is generated based on a comparison of the ranking scores of each of the trained machine learning models for the data instance. 13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein the ranking score of the trained machine learning model is further generated based on a function of a risk of misprediction indicative of a security risk if a corresponding classification is incorrect. 14. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to generate a plurality of machine learning model classes based on results of generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models, and wherein the trained machine learning model is selected from the set of trained machine learning models based on a classification of the new input data instance into a machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein each machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes comprises one or more data instances for which a same corresponding machine learning model is a highest ranking machine learning model. 16. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to select, for the new input data instance, the trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models, to process the new input data instance at least by selecting a subset of two or more trained machine learning models from the set of trained machine learning models for inclusion in an ensemble of trained machine learning models. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to generate the ensemble of trained machine learning models based on the selection of the subset of two or more trained machine learning models and logic configured to combine outputs of the two or more trained machine learning models to generate a single classification output of the ensemble. 18. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the selection of the trained machine learning model is performed dynamically for each new input data instance in a plurality of different new input data instances, in response to receiving each new input data instance, and wherein for at least two new input data instances, the selected trained machine learning models for the at least two new input data instances are different from one another. 19. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to:
process, by the selected trained machine learning model, the new input data instance to generate a classification output classifying the new input data instance into one of a plurality of predetermined classifications; output, by the selected trained machine learning model, the classification output to a security information and event management (SIEM) computing system; and perform, by the STEM computing system, a security operation based on the classification output. 20. An apparatus comprising:
a processor; and a memory coupled to the processor, wherein the memory comprises instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: train a set of machine learning models based on a first training dataset to generate a plurality of trained machine learning models; execute the set of trained machine learning models on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset; generate, for each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of machine learning models in the set of machine learning models based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the machine learning models in the set of machine learning models; train a machine learning model selector, based on the set of data instances in the second training dataset and the corresponding ranking of machine learning models for each of the data instances in the set of data instances, to select a trained machine learning model, from the set of trained machine learning models, based on an input data instance; and select, by the machine learning model selector, for a new input data instance, a trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models. | A machine learning model selector is provided. A set of machine learning (ML) models are trained based on a first training dataset. The set of trained ML model is executed on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset. For each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of ML models is generated based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the set of ML models. A ML model selector is trained based on the data instances in the set of data instances and the corresponding ranking of ML models, to select a trained ML model based on an input data instance.1. A method, in a data processing system comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, the memory comprising instructions executed by the at least one processor to cause the at least one processor to execute the method comprising:
training a set of machine learning models based on a first training dataset to generate a plurality of trained machine learning models; executing the set of trained machine learning models on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset; generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of machine learning models in the set of machine learning models based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the machine learning models in the set of machine learning models; training a machine learning model selector, based on the set of data instances in the second training dataset and the corresponding ranking of machine learning models for each of the data instances in the set of data instances, to select a trained machine learning model, from the set of trained machine learning models, based on an input data instance; and selecting, by the machine learning model selector, for a new input data instance, a trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models comprises, for each data instance in the set of data instances, and each trained machine learning model in the set of trained machine learning models:
processing the data instance as an input to the trained machine learning model to generate a classification output comprising a classification and an associated confidence value; and generating a ranking score of the trained machine learning model based on a function of the classification and the associated confidence value, wherein the ranking of machine learning models for the data instance is generated based on a comparison of the ranking scores of each of the trained machine learning models for the data instance. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the ranking score of the trained machine learning model is further generated based on a function of a risk of misprediction indicative of a security risk if a corresponding classification is incorrect. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a plurality of machine learning model classes based on results of generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models, and wherein the trained machine learning model is selected from the set of trained machine learning models based on a classification of the new input data instance into a machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein each machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes comprises one or more data instances for which a same corresponding machine learning model is a highest ranking machine learning model. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting, for the new input data instance, the trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models, to process the new input data instance comprises selecting a subset of two or more trained machine learning models from the set of trained machine learning models for inclusion in an ensemble of trained machine learning models. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising generating the ensemble of trained machine learning models based on the selection of the subset of two or more trained machine learning models and logic configured to combine outputs of the two or more trained machine learning models to generate a single classification output of the ensemble. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the selection of the trained machine learning model is performed dynamically for each new input data instance in a plurality of different new input data instances, in response to receiving each new input data instance, and wherein for at least two new input data instances, the selected trained machine learning models for the at least two new input data instances are different from one another. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
processing, by the selected trained machine learning model, the new input data instance to generate a classification output classifying the new input data instance into one of a plurality of predetermined classifications; outputting, by the selected trained machine learning model, the classification output to a security information and event management (SIEM) computing system; and performing, by the STEM computing system, a security operation based on the classification output. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the new input data instance is a security log in a plurality of security logs of a security log data structure obtained from a monitored computing system environment, and wherein the trained machine learning models in the plurality of trained machine learning models are trained to classify security logs as either CLOSE or ESCALATE. 11. A computer program product comprising a computer readable storage medium having a computer readable program stored therein, wherein the computer readable program, when executed on a computing device, causes the computing device to:
train a set of machine learning models based on a first training dataset to generate a plurality of trained machine learning models; execute the set of trained machine learning models on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset; generate, for each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of machine learning models in the set of machine learning models based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the machine learning models in the set of machine learning models; train a machine learning model selector, based on the set of data instances in the second training dataset and the corresponding ranking of machine learning models for each of the data instances in the set of data instances, to select a trained machine learning model, from the set of trained machine learning models, based on an input data instance; and select, by the machine learning model selector, for a new input data instance, a trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to generate, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models at least by, for each data instance in the set of data instances, and each trained machine learning model in the set of trained machine learning models:
processing the data instance as an input to the trained machine learning model to generate a classification output comprising a classification and an associated confidence value; and generating a ranking score of the trained machine learning model based on a function of the classification and the associated confidence value, wherein the ranking of machine learning models for the data instance is generated based on a comparison of the ranking scores of each of the trained machine learning models for the data instance. 13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein the ranking score of the trained machine learning model is further generated based on a function of a risk of misprediction indicative of a security risk if a corresponding classification is incorrect. 14. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to generate a plurality of machine learning model classes based on results of generating, for each data instance in the set of data instances, the corresponding ranking of machine learning models, and wherein the trained machine learning model is selected from the set of trained machine learning models based on a classification of the new input data instance into a machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein each machine learning model class in the plurality of machine learning model classes comprises one or more data instances for which a same corresponding machine learning model is a highest ranking machine learning model. 16. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to select, for the new input data instance, the trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models, to process the new input data instance at least by selecting a subset of two or more trained machine learning models from the set of trained machine learning models for inclusion in an ensemble of trained machine learning models. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to generate the ensemble of trained machine learning models based on the selection of the subset of two or more trained machine learning models and logic configured to combine outputs of the two or more trained machine learning models to generate a single classification output of the ensemble. 18. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the selection of the trained machine learning model is performed dynamically for each new input data instance in a plurality of different new input data instances, in response to receiving each new input data instance, and wherein for at least two new input data instances, the selected trained machine learning models for the at least two new input data instances are different from one another. 19. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer readable program further causes the computing device to:
process, by the selected trained machine learning model, the new input data instance to generate a classification output classifying the new input data instance into one of a plurality of predetermined classifications; output, by the selected trained machine learning model, the classification output to a security information and event management (SIEM) computing system; and perform, by the STEM computing system, a security operation based on the classification output. 20. An apparatus comprising:
a processor; and a memory coupled to the processor, wherein the memory comprises instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: train a set of machine learning models based on a first training dataset to generate a plurality of trained machine learning models; execute the set of trained machine learning models on a second training dataset to generate a corresponding output for a set of data instances in the second training dataset; generate, for each data instance in the set of data instances, a corresponding ranking of machine learning models in the set of machine learning models based on the corresponding output for the data instance generated by the machine learning models in the set of machine learning models; train a machine learning model selector, based on the set of data instances in the second training dataset and the corresponding ranking of machine learning models for each of the data instances in the set of data instances, to select a trained machine learning model, from the set of trained machine learning models, based on an input data instance; and select, by the machine learning model selector, for a new input data instance, a trained machine learning model from the set of trained machine learning models. | 3,600 |
341,383 | 16,801,723 | 3,626 | An actuator having a nut (4) co-operating with a screw (2); a first cable (6) coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output (16, 17, 22.4) of the actuator (100); and a motor (3) arranged to drive the screw (2) in rotation. The actuator also has a mechanism (92) for comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame (10) with a theoretical position for the nut relative to the frame (10) in order to obtain a position deviation (δang4, δlin4) of the nut; and a mechanism (93) for determining a force applied to the output (22.4) of the cable actuator (100) as a function of the position deviation of the nut. Also disclosed is a method of measuring a force applied to an output (16, 17, 24.1) of an actuator (100), and to a method of determining prior loading (t6, 9) of a cable actuator (100). | 1. A cable actuator comprising:
a frame; a screw rotatably mounted on the frame and extending along a first axis; a nut co-operating with the screw; a first cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output of the actuator; a second cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output of the actuator; and a motor arranged to drive the screw in rotation; the first cable being arranged to exert forces opposing the nut being driven in rotation by the screw so as to constitute anti-rotation means such that rotation of the screw under drive from the motor causes the nut to move along the screw; the cable actuator also comprising: means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame; means for comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame with a theoretical position for the nut relative to the frame in order to obtain a position deviation of the nut; and means for determining a force applied to the output of the cable actuator as a function of the position deviation of the nut. 2. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the position deviation of the nut is an angular deviation measured about the first axis. 3. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a linear magnetic core secured to the frame and magnetic field induction means connected to the nut. 4. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a reflector secured to the frame and a distance sensor connected to the nut. 5. A cable actuator according to claim 4, wherein the distance sensor comprises a wave transceiver. 6. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a distance sensor secured to the frame and a target connected to the nut. 7. An actuator according to claim 6, wherein the distance sensor comprises a wave transceiver. 8. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a plurality of magnetic poles secured to the nut and a magnetic sensor. 9. An actuator according to claim 8, including a magnetic exciter for applying a force on at least one magnetic pole. 10. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a mechanical coupling connecting a first element connected to the frame with a second element secured to the nut, the first element comprising:
a third shaft mounted on the frame to rotate about an axis substantially parallel to the first axis; a bushing slidably mounted on the third shaft and provided with means for preventing relative rotation between the bushing and the third shaft; and a rotary encoder for measuring rotation of the third shaft. 11. A cable actuator according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical coupling comprises a flexible link. 12. A cable actuator according to claim 10, wherein the flexible link has a first end provided with a ball joint connection with one of the first and second elements, the flexible link having a second end with a fixed connection to the other one of the first and second elements. 13. A cable actuator according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical coupling comprises a rigid connecting rod having a first end provided with a ball joint connection with one of the first and second elements, the connecting rod having a second end provided with a pivot connection with the other one of the first and second elements. 14. A cable actuator according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical coupling comprises a first branch having a first end connected by a ball joint connection to a first end of a second branch, the first branch having a second end secured to one of the first and second elements, and the second branch having a second end secured to the other one of the first and second elements, the second branch including a telescopic portion. 15. A cable actuator according to claim 9, wherein the rotary encoder possesses a motor mode in order to apply an excitation force to the nut. 16. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the position deviation of the nut is a linear deviation measured along the first axis. 17. A cable actuator according to claim 15, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a distance sensor having a wire winder secured to the frame, one end of its wire being connected to the nut. 18. A cable actuator according to claim 16, wherein the distance sensor possesses a motor mode in order to apply an excitation force to the nut. 19. A cable actuator according to claim 14, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a distance sensor secured to the frame and a target connected to the nut. 20. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the output of the cable actuator is a shaft rotatably mounted on the frame. 21. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the output of the cable actuator is slidably mounted on the frame. 22. A measuring method for measuring a force applied at the output of a cable actuator comprising:
a frame; a screw mounted on the frame and extending along a first axis; a nut co-operating with the screw; a first cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output of the cable actuator; and a motor arranged to drive the screw in rotation; the first cable being arranged to exert forces opposing the nut being driven in rotation by the screw so as to constitute anti-rotation means such that rotation of the screw under drive from the motor causes the nut to move along the screw; the measuring method for measuring a force comprising the following steps: determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame; comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame with a theoretical position for the nut relative to the frame in order to obtain a position deviation of the nut; and determining a force applied to the output of the cable actuator as a function of the position deviation of the nut. 23. A measuring method according to claim 19, wherein the position deviation of the nut is an angular deviation about the first axis. 24. A measuring method according to claim 19, wherein the position deviation of the nut is a linear deviation along the first axis. 25. A method of determining prior loading of a cable actuator comprising:
a frame; a screw mounted on the frame and extending along a first axis; a nut co-operating with the screw; a first cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to the output of the cable actuator; and a motor arranged to drive the screw in rotation; the first cable being arranged to exert forces opposing the nut being driven in rotation by the screw so as to constitute anti-rotation means such that rotation of the screw under drive from the motor causes the nut to move along the screw; the method of measuring the prior loading comprising the following steps: bringing the nut to a predetermined position relative to the frame; holding the output of the cable actuator stationary; controlling the motor so that it applies a predetermined torque to the screw determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame; comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame with the predetermined position for the nut relative to the frame in order to obtain a position deviation of the nut; and determining the prior loading acting at least on the first cable as a function of the position deviation of the nut. | An actuator having a nut (4) co-operating with a screw (2); a first cable (6) coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output (16, 17, 22.4) of the actuator (100); and a motor (3) arranged to drive the screw (2) in rotation. The actuator also has a mechanism (92) for comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame (10) with a theoretical position for the nut relative to the frame (10) in order to obtain a position deviation (δang4, δlin4) of the nut; and a mechanism (93) for determining a force applied to the output (22.4) of the cable actuator (100) as a function of the position deviation of the nut. Also disclosed is a method of measuring a force applied to an output (16, 17, 24.1) of an actuator (100), and to a method of determining prior loading (t6, 9) of a cable actuator (100).1. A cable actuator comprising:
a frame; a screw rotatably mounted on the frame and extending along a first axis; a nut co-operating with the screw; a first cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output of the actuator; a second cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output of the actuator; and a motor arranged to drive the screw in rotation; the first cable being arranged to exert forces opposing the nut being driven in rotation by the screw so as to constitute anti-rotation means such that rotation of the screw under drive from the motor causes the nut to move along the screw; the cable actuator also comprising: means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame; means for comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame with a theoretical position for the nut relative to the frame in order to obtain a position deviation of the nut; and means for determining a force applied to the output of the cable actuator as a function of the position deviation of the nut. 2. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the position deviation of the nut is an angular deviation measured about the first axis. 3. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a linear magnetic core secured to the frame and magnetic field induction means connected to the nut. 4. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a reflector secured to the frame and a distance sensor connected to the nut. 5. A cable actuator according to claim 4, wherein the distance sensor comprises a wave transceiver. 6. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a distance sensor secured to the frame and a target connected to the nut. 7. An actuator according to claim 6, wherein the distance sensor comprises a wave transceiver. 8. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a plurality of magnetic poles secured to the nut and a magnetic sensor. 9. An actuator according to claim 8, including a magnetic exciter for applying a force on at least one magnetic pole. 10. A cable actuator according to claim 2, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a mechanical coupling connecting a first element connected to the frame with a second element secured to the nut, the first element comprising:
a third shaft mounted on the frame to rotate about an axis substantially parallel to the first axis; a bushing slidably mounted on the third shaft and provided with means for preventing relative rotation between the bushing and the third shaft; and a rotary encoder for measuring rotation of the third shaft. 11. A cable actuator according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical coupling comprises a flexible link. 12. A cable actuator according to claim 10, wherein the flexible link has a first end provided with a ball joint connection with one of the first and second elements, the flexible link having a second end with a fixed connection to the other one of the first and second elements. 13. A cable actuator according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical coupling comprises a rigid connecting rod having a first end provided with a ball joint connection with one of the first and second elements, the connecting rod having a second end provided with a pivot connection with the other one of the first and second elements. 14. A cable actuator according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical coupling comprises a first branch having a first end connected by a ball joint connection to a first end of a second branch, the first branch having a second end secured to one of the first and second elements, and the second branch having a second end secured to the other one of the first and second elements, the second branch including a telescopic portion. 15. A cable actuator according to claim 9, wherein the rotary encoder possesses a motor mode in order to apply an excitation force to the nut. 16. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the position deviation of the nut is a linear deviation measured along the first axis. 17. A cable actuator according to claim 15, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a distance sensor having a wire winder secured to the frame, one end of its wire being connected to the nut. 18. A cable actuator according to claim 16, wherein the distance sensor possesses a motor mode in order to apply an excitation force to the nut. 19. A cable actuator according to claim 14, wherein the means for determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame comprise a distance sensor secured to the frame and a target connected to the nut. 20. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the output of the cable actuator is a shaft rotatably mounted on the frame. 21. A cable actuator according to claim 1, wherein the output of the cable actuator is slidably mounted on the frame. 22. A measuring method for measuring a force applied at the output of a cable actuator comprising:
a frame; a screw mounted on the frame and extending along a first axis; a nut co-operating with the screw; a first cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to an output of the cable actuator; and a motor arranged to drive the screw in rotation; the first cable being arranged to exert forces opposing the nut being driven in rotation by the screw so as to constitute anti-rotation means such that rotation of the screw under drive from the motor causes the nut to move along the screw; the measuring method for measuring a force comprising the following steps: determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame; comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame with a theoretical position for the nut relative to the frame in order to obtain a position deviation of the nut; and determining a force applied to the output of the cable actuator as a function of the position deviation of the nut. 23. A measuring method according to claim 19, wherein the position deviation of the nut is an angular deviation about the first axis. 24. A measuring method according to claim 19, wherein the position deviation of the nut is a linear deviation along the first axis. 25. A method of determining prior loading of a cable actuator comprising:
a frame; a screw mounted on the frame and extending along a first axis; a nut co-operating with the screw; a first cable coupled to the nut and functionally connected to the output of the cable actuator; and a motor arranged to drive the screw in rotation; the first cable being arranged to exert forces opposing the nut being driven in rotation by the screw so as to constitute anti-rotation means such that rotation of the screw under drive from the motor causes the nut to move along the screw; the method of measuring the prior loading comprising the following steps: bringing the nut to a predetermined position relative to the frame; holding the output of the cable actuator stationary; controlling the motor so that it applies a predetermined torque to the screw determining the actual position of the nut relative to the frame; comparing the actual position of the nut relative to the frame with the predetermined position for the nut relative to the frame in order to obtain a position deviation of the nut; and determining the prior loading acting at least on the first cable as a function of the position deviation of the nut. | 3,600 |
341,384 | 16,801,698 | 3,626 | Systems and methods are presented for creating encrypted containers in cloud computing environments. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes receiving a request to create a virtual machine at an application node. The request may contain encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine. The virtual machine may be created at the application node and may include an associated memory for use during execution of the virtual machine. An encryption key may be received and the memory may be encrypted. An encrypted container image and may be mounted within the virtual machine. The encrypted container image may be executed within the virtual machine. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving, at an application node of a cloud computing environment, a request to create a virtual machine at the application node, the request containing encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine; creating, at the application node, the virtual machine, the virtual machine including an associated memory for use during execution of the virtual machine; encrypting the memory; receiving, at the application node, a first encryption key; receiving an encrypted container image, wherein the encrypted container image is encrypted using the first encryption key; mounting the encrypted container image within the virtual machine; and executing the encrypted container image within the virtual machine. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein creating the virtual machine includes:
initializing execution of the virtual machine; reserving storage space separate from the memory for use by the virtual machine; encrypting the storage space; reserving the memory for use by the virtual machine; and pausing execution of the virtual machine. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the storage space is encrypted using a private key associated with the virtual machine. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising, prior to receiving the first encryption key:
generating an attestation based on the encryption parameters and a public key associated with the virtual machine; and transmitting the attestation to a security coordinator, wherein the security coordinator transmits the first encryption key to the application node in response to receiving and verifying the attestation. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the security coordinator further transmits the encryption key to a secure registry for use in encrypting the encrypted container image. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein encrypting the memory comprises storing a second encryption key in association with the memory, wherein the second encryption key is generated based on a private key associated with at least one of the virtual machine and the memory. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein mounting the container image includes:
decrypting the encrypted container image using the first encryption key; and storing the encrypted container image in the virtual machine. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first encryption key is received from a security coordinator. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the request is received from a client device external to the cloud computing environment. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the request is received by a security coordinator configured to generate the encryption parameters before transmitting the request including the encryption parameters to the application node. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the encryption parameters include a certificate uniquely associated with the security coordinator. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising transmitting a response to the client device after beginning execution of the container image. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the request specifies one or both of a firmware and a kernel to be implemented by the virtual machine. 14. A system comprising:
a processor; and a first memory storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
transmit, to an application node of a cloud computing environment, a request to create a virtual machine at the application node, the request containing encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine;
receive, from the application node, an attestation indicating that the virtual machine has been created and encrypted at least in part;
validate the attestation;
generate a first encryption key;
transmit the first encryption key to the application node; and
transmit, to the virtual machine, an encrypted container image for execution within the virtual machine. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to, prior to transmitting the request, receive the request from a client device external to the cloud computing environment. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to generate the encryption parameters before transmitting the request including the encryption parameters to the application node. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the encryption parameters include a certificate uniquely associated with a security coordinator from which the request is transmitted to the application node. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to, prior to transmitting the encrypted container image:
retrieve, from a registry, a container image; and encrypt the container image with the first encryption key to generate the encrypted container image. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein the application node is one of a plurality of application nodes within the cloud computing environment, and wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor while determining that the application node, cause the processor to determine that the application node includes memory compatible with encryption techniques. 20. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
transmit, to an application node of a cloud computing environment, a request to create a virtual machine at the application node, the request containing encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine; receive, from the application node, an attestation indicating that the virtual machine has been created and encrypted at least in part; validate the attestation; generate a first encryption key; transmit the first encryption key to the application node; and transmit, to the virtual machine, an encrypted container image for execution within the virtual machine. | Systems and methods are presented for creating encrypted containers in cloud computing environments. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes receiving a request to create a virtual machine at an application node. The request may contain encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine. The virtual machine may be created at the application node and may include an associated memory for use during execution of the virtual machine. An encryption key may be received and the memory may be encrypted. An encrypted container image and may be mounted within the virtual machine. The encrypted container image may be executed within the virtual machine.1. A method comprising:
receiving, at an application node of a cloud computing environment, a request to create a virtual machine at the application node, the request containing encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine; creating, at the application node, the virtual machine, the virtual machine including an associated memory for use during execution of the virtual machine; encrypting the memory; receiving, at the application node, a first encryption key; receiving an encrypted container image, wherein the encrypted container image is encrypted using the first encryption key; mounting the encrypted container image within the virtual machine; and executing the encrypted container image within the virtual machine. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein creating the virtual machine includes:
initializing execution of the virtual machine; reserving storage space separate from the memory for use by the virtual machine; encrypting the storage space; reserving the memory for use by the virtual machine; and pausing execution of the virtual machine. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the storage space is encrypted using a private key associated with the virtual machine. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising, prior to receiving the first encryption key:
generating an attestation based on the encryption parameters and a public key associated with the virtual machine; and transmitting the attestation to a security coordinator, wherein the security coordinator transmits the first encryption key to the application node in response to receiving and verifying the attestation. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the security coordinator further transmits the encryption key to a secure registry for use in encrypting the encrypted container image. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein encrypting the memory comprises storing a second encryption key in association with the memory, wherein the second encryption key is generated based on a private key associated with at least one of the virtual machine and the memory. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein mounting the container image includes:
decrypting the encrypted container image using the first encryption key; and storing the encrypted container image in the virtual machine. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first encryption key is received from a security coordinator. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the request is received from a client device external to the cloud computing environment. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the request is received by a security coordinator configured to generate the encryption parameters before transmitting the request including the encryption parameters to the application node. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the encryption parameters include a certificate uniquely associated with the security coordinator. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising transmitting a response to the client device after beginning execution of the container image. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the request specifies one or both of a firmware and a kernel to be implemented by the virtual machine. 14. A system comprising:
a processor; and a first memory storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
transmit, to an application node of a cloud computing environment, a request to create a virtual machine at the application node, the request containing encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine;
receive, from the application node, an attestation indicating that the virtual machine has been created and encrypted at least in part;
validate the attestation;
generate a first encryption key;
transmit the first encryption key to the application node; and
transmit, to the virtual machine, an encrypted container image for execution within the virtual machine. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to, prior to transmitting the request, receive the request from a client device external to the cloud computing environment. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to generate the encryption parameters before transmitting the request including the encryption parameters to the application node. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the encryption parameters include a certificate uniquely associated with a security coordinator from which the request is transmitted to the application node. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to, prior to transmitting the encrypted container image:
retrieve, from a registry, a container image; and encrypt the container image with the first encryption key to generate the encrypted container image. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein the application node is one of a plurality of application nodes within the cloud computing environment, and wherein the memory stores further instructions which, when executed by the processor while determining that the application node, cause the processor to determine that the application node includes memory compatible with encryption techniques. 20. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
transmit, to an application node of a cloud computing environment, a request to create a virtual machine at the application node, the request containing encryption parameters for use in encrypting the virtual machine; receive, from the application node, an attestation indicating that the virtual machine has been created and encrypted at least in part; validate the attestation; generate a first encryption key; transmit the first encryption key to the application node; and transmit, to the virtual machine, an encrypted container image for execution within the virtual machine. | 3,600 |
341,385 | 16,801,727 | 3,626 | An animal feed launcher apparatus for feeding and attracting animals from a distance includes a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside. The sidewall has at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside. The tube inside slidingly receives a feed sock filled with animal feed. A cap is coupled to the launch tube within the tube proximal end. A disc is coupled within the launch tube and is slidably engaged within the tube inside. A compression spring is coupled to the disc and extends between the disc and the cap within the tube inside. A cocking pin coupled to the disc and extends through the cocking slot. | 1. An animal feed launcher apparatus comprising:
a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside, the sidewall having at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside, the tube inside being configured to slidingly receive a feed sock filled with animal feed; a cap coupled to the launch tube, the cap being coupled within the tube proximal end; a disc coupled within the launch tube, the disc being slidably engaged within the tube inside; a compression spring coupled to the disc, the compression spring extending between the disc and the cap within the tube inside; and a cocking pin coupled to the disc, the cocking pin extending through the cocking slot. 2. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the at least one cocking slot being a pair of cocking slots 180° apart around the sidewall; the cocking pin evenly extending through each cocking slot. 3. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 2 further comprising each cocking slot having a linear load portion extending parallel to a central axis of the launch tube and a keeper portion extending perpendicularly from a slot proximal end of the cocking slot, the cocking pin being selectively engageable within the keeper portion of the cocking slots to maintain the compression spring in a loaded position. 4. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 2 further comprising the cocking pin having a medial rod portion extending from within the tube inside through each cocking slot and a pair of grip portions at each end of the medial rod portion. 5. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 4 further comprising each grip portion being cylindrical and thicker than the medial rod portion and having a rounded outer end. 6. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the cap having an outer portion conforming to the diameter of the sidewall and an inner portion engaged within the tube inside. 7. An animal feed launcher apparatus comprising:
a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside, the sidewall having at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside, the at least one cocking slot being a pair of cocking slots 180° apart around the sidewall, each cocking slot having a linear load portion extending parallel to a central axis of the launch tube and a keeper portion extending perpendicularly from a slot proximal end of the cocking slot, the tube inside being configured to slidingly receive a feed sock filled with animal feed; a cap coupled to the launch tube, the cap being coupled within the tube proximal end, the cap having an outer portion conforming to the diameter of the sidewall and an inner portion engaged within the tube inside; a disc coupled within the launch tube, the disc being slidably engaged within the tube inside; a compression spring coupled to the disc, the compression spring extending between the disc and the cap within the tube inside; and a cocking pin coupled to the disc, the cocking pin evenly extending through each cocking slot, the cocking pin being selectively engageable within the keeper portion of the cocking slots to maintain the compression spring in a loaded position, the cocking pin having a medial rod portion extending from within the tube inside through each cocking slot and a pair of grip portions at each end of the medial rod portion, each grip portion being cylindrical and thicker than the medial rod portion and having a rounded outer end. 8. An animal feed launcher apparatus and feed sock combination comprising:
a feed sock, the feed sock being configured to be filled with animal feed; a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside, the sidewall having at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside, the at least one cocking slot being a pair of cocking slots 180° apart around the sidewall, each cocking slot having a linear load portion extending parallel to a central axis of the launch tube and a keeper portion extending perpendicularly from a slot proximal end of the cocking slot, the tube inside slidingly receiving the feed sock; a cap coupled to the launch tube, the cap being coupled within the tube proximal end, the cap having an outer portion conforming to the diameter of the sidewall and an inner portion engaged within the tube inside; a disc coupled within the launch tube, the disc being slidably engaged within the tube inside; a compression spring coupled to the disc, the compression spring extending between the disc and the cap within the tube inside; and a cocking pin coupled to the disc, the cocking pin evenly extending through each cocking slot, the cocking pin being selectively engageable within the keeper portion of the cocking slots to maintain the compression spring in a loaded position, the cocking pin having a medial rod portion extending from within the tube inside through each cocking slot and a pair of grip portions at each end of the medial rod portion, each grip portion being cylindrical and thicker than the medial rod portion and having a rounded outer end. 9. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 8 further comprising a slot length of the cocking slots being dimensioned to be less than a sock length of the feed sock. | An animal feed launcher apparatus for feeding and attracting animals from a distance includes a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside. The sidewall has at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside. The tube inside slidingly receives a feed sock filled with animal feed. A cap is coupled to the launch tube within the tube proximal end. A disc is coupled within the launch tube and is slidably engaged within the tube inside. A compression spring is coupled to the disc and extends between the disc and the cap within the tube inside. A cocking pin coupled to the disc and extends through the cocking slot.1. An animal feed launcher apparatus comprising:
a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside, the sidewall having at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside, the tube inside being configured to slidingly receive a feed sock filled with animal feed; a cap coupled to the launch tube, the cap being coupled within the tube proximal end; a disc coupled within the launch tube, the disc being slidably engaged within the tube inside; a compression spring coupled to the disc, the compression spring extending between the disc and the cap within the tube inside; and a cocking pin coupled to the disc, the cocking pin extending through the cocking slot. 2. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the at least one cocking slot being a pair of cocking slots 180° apart around the sidewall; the cocking pin evenly extending through each cocking slot. 3. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 2 further comprising each cocking slot having a linear load portion extending parallel to a central axis of the launch tube and a keeper portion extending perpendicularly from a slot proximal end of the cocking slot, the cocking pin being selectively engageable within the keeper portion of the cocking slots to maintain the compression spring in a loaded position. 4. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 2 further comprising the cocking pin having a medial rod portion extending from within the tube inside through each cocking slot and a pair of grip portions at each end of the medial rod portion. 5. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 4 further comprising each grip portion being cylindrical and thicker than the medial rod portion and having a rounded outer end. 6. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the cap having an outer portion conforming to the diameter of the sidewall and an inner portion engaged within the tube inside. 7. An animal feed launcher apparatus comprising:
a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside, the sidewall having at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside, the at least one cocking slot being a pair of cocking slots 180° apart around the sidewall, each cocking slot having a linear load portion extending parallel to a central axis of the launch tube and a keeper portion extending perpendicularly from a slot proximal end of the cocking slot, the tube inside being configured to slidingly receive a feed sock filled with animal feed; a cap coupled to the launch tube, the cap being coupled within the tube proximal end, the cap having an outer portion conforming to the diameter of the sidewall and an inner portion engaged within the tube inside; a disc coupled within the launch tube, the disc being slidably engaged within the tube inside; a compression spring coupled to the disc, the compression spring extending between the disc and the cap within the tube inside; and a cocking pin coupled to the disc, the cocking pin evenly extending through each cocking slot, the cocking pin being selectively engageable within the keeper portion of the cocking slots to maintain the compression spring in a loaded position, the cocking pin having a medial rod portion extending from within the tube inside through each cocking slot and a pair of grip portions at each end of the medial rod portion, each grip portion being cylindrical and thicker than the medial rod portion and having a rounded outer end. 8. An animal feed launcher apparatus and feed sock combination comprising:
a feed sock, the feed sock being configured to be filled with animal feed; a launch tube having a tube proximal end, a tube distal end, and a sidewall defining a tube inside, the sidewall having at least one cocking slot extending through to the tube inside, the at least one cocking slot being a pair of cocking slots 180° apart around the sidewall, each cocking slot having a linear load portion extending parallel to a central axis of the launch tube and a keeper portion extending perpendicularly from a slot proximal end of the cocking slot, the tube inside slidingly receiving the feed sock; a cap coupled to the launch tube, the cap being coupled within the tube proximal end, the cap having an outer portion conforming to the diameter of the sidewall and an inner portion engaged within the tube inside; a disc coupled within the launch tube, the disc being slidably engaged within the tube inside; a compression spring coupled to the disc, the compression spring extending between the disc and the cap within the tube inside; and a cocking pin coupled to the disc, the cocking pin evenly extending through each cocking slot, the cocking pin being selectively engageable within the keeper portion of the cocking slots to maintain the compression spring in a loaded position, the cocking pin having a medial rod portion extending from within the tube inside through each cocking slot and a pair of grip portions at each end of the medial rod portion, each grip portion being cylindrical and thicker than the medial rod portion and having a rounded outer end. 9. The animal feed launcher apparatus of claim 8 further comprising a slot length of the cocking slots being dimensioned to be less than a sock length of the feed sock. | 3,600 |
341,386 | 16,801,714 | 3,626 | A storage entity of the data storage system may be visible to the host over a first path and a second path. The first path may operate in accordance with a first protocol and the second path may operate in accordance with a second different protocol. The storage entity may have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path. A first native identifier associated of the storage entity on the first path and a second native identifier of the storage entity on the second path may be used to determine that the same storage entity is visible over the first and second paths even though the storage entity may have different protocol level identifiers on the first and second paths that operate using different protocols. | 1. A method of processing requests comprising:
configuring a plurality of paths between a host and a data storage system, wherein a same storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the plurality of paths, wherein a first path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a first protocol and a second path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a second protocol that is different from the first protocol, wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path; issuing a first request in accordance with the first protocol over the first path to the same storage entity to obtain a first device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the first request, receiving a first response including first information denoting the first device native identifier of the same storage entity; issuing a second request in accordance with the second protocol over the second path to the same storage entity to obtain a second device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the second request, receiving a second response including second information denoting the second device native identifier of the same storage entity; determining that the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match; and responsive to determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match, performing processing on the host that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first protocol level personality and identity include a first protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the first protocol. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the second protocol level personality and identity include a second protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the second protocol. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first protocol level identifier and the second level protocol identifier are different. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier using one or more attributes of the data storage system upon which the same storage entity is configured. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein said determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier use one or more local attributes of the same storage entity as defined in the data storage system upon which the same storage entity is configured. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier are each formed using a serial number or identifier of the data storage system. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier are each formed using a local device number of the same storage entity, wherein the local device number uniquely identifies the same storage entity with respect to other logical storage entities configured in the data storage system. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein a multi-path (MP) driver of the host performs the processing that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the MP driver presents the same logical device to an application that issues a plurality of I/O operations to the same storage entity. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the MP driver transmits the plurality of I/O operations to the same storage entity over the plurality of paths. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein, for each of the plurality of I/O operations, the MP driver selects, in accordance with a load balancing technique, one of the plurality of paths to send said each I/O operation from the host to the data storage system. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the first response is sent over the first path from the data storage system to the host, and wherein the second response is sent over the second path from the data storage system to the host. 14. The method of claim 2, wherein the same storage entity is visible to the host over a third path of the plurality of paths, the first path and the third path both communicate using the first protocol, the same storage entity is configured to have a third protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the third path, the third protocol level personality and identity include a third protocol level identifier, and wherein the third protocol level identifier and the first protocol level identifier match. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein a fourth path between the host and the data storage system operate using the first protocol, a second storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the fourth path, the second storage entity has a fourth protocol level personality and identity including a fourth protocol level identifier, and wherein the method further comprises:
determining whether the first protocol level identifier and the fourth protocol level identifier match; responsive to determining the first protocol level identifier and the fourth protocol level identifier match, determining that the second storage entity is the same storage entity; and responsive to determining the first protocol level identifier and the fourth protocol level identifier do not match, determining that the second storage entity and the same storage entity are two different storage entities. 16. A system comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory comprising code stored thereon that, when executed, performs a method of processing requests comprising:
configuring a plurality of paths between a host and a data storage system, wherein a same storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the plurality of paths, wherein a first path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a first protocol and a second path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a second protocol that is different from the first protocol, wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path;
issuing a first request in accordance with the first protocol over the first path to the same storage entity to obtain a first device native identifier of the same storage entity;
responsive to the first request, receiving a first response including first information denoting the first device native identifier of the same storage entity;
issuing a second request in accordance with the second protocol over the second path to the same storage entity to obtain a second device native identifier of the same storage entity;
responsive to the second request, receiving a second response including second information denoting the second device native identifier of the same storage entity;
determining that the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match; and
responsive to determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match, performing processing on the host that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 17. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising code stored thereon that, when executed, perform a method of processing requests comprising:
configuring a plurality of paths between a host and a data storage system, wherein a same storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the plurality of paths, wherein a first path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a first protocol and a second path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a second protocol that is different from the first protocol, wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path; issuing a first request in accordance with the first protocol over the first path to the same storage entity to obtain a first device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the first request, receiving a first response including first information denoting the first device native identifier of the same storage entity; issuing a second request in accordance with the second protocol over the second path to the same storage entity to obtain a second device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the second request, receiving a second response including second information denoting the second device native identifier of the same storage entity; determining that the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match; and responsive to determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match, performing processing on the host that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 18. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17, wherein the first protocol level personality and identity include a first protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the first protocol. 19. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 18, wherein the second protocol level personality and identity include a second protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the second protocol. 20. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 19, wherein the first protocol level identifier and the second level protocol identifier are different. | A storage entity of the data storage system may be visible to the host over a first path and a second path. The first path may operate in accordance with a first protocol and the second path may operate in accordance with a second different protocol. The storage entity may have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path. A first native identifier associated of the storage entity on the first path and a second native identifier of the storage entity on the second path may be used to determine that the same storage entity is visible over the first and second paths even though the storage entity may have different protocol level identifiers on the first and second paths that operate using different protocols.1. A method of processing requests comprising:
configuring a plurality of paths between a host and a data storage system, wherein a same storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the plurality of paths, wherein a first path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a first protocol and a second path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a second protocol that is different from the first protocol, wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path; issuing a first request in accordance with the first protocol over the first path to the same storage entity to obtain a first device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the first request, receiving a first response including first information denoting the first device native identifier of the same storage entity; issuing a second request in accordance with the second protocol over the second path to the same storage entity to obtain a second device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the second request, receiving a second response including second information denoting the second device native identifier of the same storage entity; determining that the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match; and responsive to determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match, performing processing on the host that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first protocol level personality and identity include a first protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the first protocol. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the second protocol level personality and identity include a second protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the second protocol. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first protocol level identifier and the second level protocol identifier are different. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier using one or more attributes of the data storage system upon which the same storage entity is configured. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein said determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier use one or more local attributes of the same storage entity as defined in the data storage system upon which the same storage entity is configured. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier are each formed using a serial number or identifier of the data storage system. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier are each formed using a local device number of the same storage entity, wherein the local device number uniquely identifies the same storage entity with respect to other logical storage entities configured in the data storage system. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein a multi-path (MP) driver of the host performs the processing that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the MP driver presents the same logical device to an application that issues a plurality of I/O operations to the same storage entity. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the MP driver transmits the plurality of I/O operations to the same storage entity over the plurality of paths. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein, for each of the plurality of I/O operations, the MP driver selects, in accordance with a load balancing technique, one of the plurality of paths to send said each I/O operation from the host to the data storage system. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the first response is sent over the first path from the data storage system to the host, and wherein the second response is sent over the second path from the data storage system to the host. 14. The method of claim 2, wherein the same storage entity is visible to the host over a third path of the plurality of paths, the first path and the third path both communicate using the first protocol, the same storage entity is configured to have a third protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the third path, the third protocol level personality and identity include a third protocol level identifier, and wherein the third protocol level identifier and the first protocol level identifier match. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein a fourth path between the host and the data storage system operate using the first protocol, a second storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the fourth path, the second storage entity has a fourth protocol level personality and identity including a fourth protocol level identifier, and wherein the method further comprises:
determining whether the first protocol level identifier and the fourth protocol level identifier match; responsive to determining the first protocol level identifier and the fourth protocol level identifier match, determining that the second storage entity is the same storage entity; and responsive to determining the first protocol level identifier and the fourth protocol level identifier do not match, determining that the second storage entity and the same storage entity are two different storage entities. 16. A system comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory comprising code stored thereon that, when executed, performs a method of processing requests comprising:
configuring a plurality of paths between a host and a data storage system, wherein a same storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the plurality of paths, wherein a first path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a first protocol and a second path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a second protocol that is different from the first protocol, wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path;
issuing a first request in accordance with the first protocol over the first path to the same storage entity to obtain a first device native identifier of the same storage entity;
responsive to the first request, receiving a first response including first information denoting the first device native identifier of the same storage entity;
issuing a second request in accordance with the second protocol over the second path to the same storage entity to obtain a second device native identifier of the same storage entity;
responsive to the second request, receiving a second response including second information denoting the second device native identifier of the same storage entity;
determining that the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match; and
responsive to determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match, performing processing on the host that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 17. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising code stored thereon that, when executed, perform a method of processing requests comprising:
configuring a plurality of paths between a host and a data storage system, wherein a same storage entity of the data storage system is visible to the host over the plurality of paths, wherein a first path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a first protocol and a second path of the plurality of paths is used to communicate using a second protocol that is different from the first protocol, wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a first protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the first path and wherein the same storage entity is configured to have a second protocol level personality and identity when presented to the host over the second path; issuing a first request in accordance with the first protocol over the first path to the same storage entity to obtain a first device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the first request, receiving a first response including first information denoting the first device native identifier of the same storage entity; issuing a second request in accordance with the second protocol over the second path to the same storage entity to obtain a second device native identifier of the same storage entity; responsive to the second request, receiving a second response including second information denoting the second device native identifier of the same storage entity; determining that the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match; and responsive to determining the first device native identifier and the second device native identifier match, performing processing on the host that recognizes that the same storage entity is visible on both the first path and the second path. 18. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17, wherein the first protocol level personality and identity include a first protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the first protocol. 19. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 18, wherein the second protocol level personality and identity include a second protocol level identifier used to identify the same storage entity in accordance with the second protocol. 20. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 19, wherein the first protocol level identifier and the second level protocol identifier are different. | 3,600 |
341,387 | 16,801,682 | 3,626 | An electro-optical system, and method for making the electro-optical system. The electro-optical system includes a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) having a laser source located on the PIC, a fiberless optical coupler located on the PIC. The fiberless optical coupler is configured to be coupled to a fiber array. The electro-optical system also includes an optical element, and a mechanical aligner. The optical element is aligned with the fiber array, via the mechanical aligner, for a light from the laser source to transmit in between the fiber array and the PIC through the optical element, when the fiberless optical coupler is coupled to the fiber array. | 1. An electro-optical system, comprising:
a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) having a laser source located on the PIC; a fiberless optical coupler located on the PIC, wherein the fiberless optical coupler is configured to be coupled to a fiber array; an optical element; and a mechanical aligner, wherein the optical element is aligned with the fiber array, via the mechanical aligner, for a light from the laser source to transmit in between the fiber array and the PIC through the optical element, when the fiberless optical coupler is coupled to the fiber array. 2. The elector-optical system of claim 1, further comprising:
a Multi-Chip Module (MCM), wherein the PIC is located on the MCM. 3. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
an optical connector, wherein the fiber array is located in the optical connector, and the optical connector is coupled to the mechanical aligner to align the optical element with the fiber array. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the optical element comprises:
a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler; and a second plurality of optical elements located in the PIC. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the first plurality of optical elements includes a first waveguide, a first deflector, and a first mirror, and the second plurality of optical elements includes a second waveguide, a second deflector, and a second mirror. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the first deflector, the first mirror, the second deflector, and the second mirror are adjustable to direct the light from the laser source to the first waveguide. 7. The system of claim 2, wherein the mechanical aligner further comprises:
a plurality of mechanical alignment rods located within the fiberless optical coupler and connectible to the optical connector. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the mechanical aligner is located in between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the mechanical aligner is at least a Mechanical Optical Device (MOD), wherein the MOD allows light to pass through between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the MOD further includes grooves that are configured to receive the fiberless optical coupler so that the optical element is aligned to the fiber array, and the light from the laser source is transmitted to the fiber array through the optical element. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the PIC further comprises:
a Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) wafer that is coupled to the mechanical aligner; and a socket coupled to the MCM, wherein the optical element comprises a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the SOI wafer. 12. The system of claim 9, wherein the optical element includes a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the MOD. 13. The system of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first waveguide and the second waveguide is a polymeric waveguide. 14. The system of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first waveguide and the second waveguide is an Si waveguide. 15. A method of manufacturing an electro-optical system, comprising:
forming a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC), the PIC having a laser source formed on the PIC; forming an optical element; forming a mechanical aligner; coupling the PIC on a Multi-Chip Module (MCM); coupling the MCM on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB); and coupling a fiberless optical coupler to the PIC, the fiberless optical coupler configured to be coupled to a fiber array, wherein the optical element is aligned with the fiber array via the mechanical aligner, for a light from the laser source to transmit in between the fiber array and the PIC through the optical element, when the fiberless optical coupler is coupled to the optical connector via the mechanical aligner. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein optical element comprises a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the PIC. 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the mechanical aligner is a Mechanical Optical Device (MOD) that allows light to pass through between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the MOD further includes grooves that are configured to receive the fiberless optical coupler so that the optical element is aligned to the fiber array, and the light from the laser source is transmitted to the fiber array through the optical element. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein
the MOD is located in between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC, the PIC further comprising:
a Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) wafer that is coupled to the MOD; and
a socket coupled to the MCM, and
the SOI wafer and the socket are coupled to each other, and the MOD is coupled to the SOI wafer, using a flip-chip assembly process. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein optical element includes a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the MOD. | An electro-optical system, and method for making the electro-optical system. The electro-optical system includes a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) having a laser source located on the PIC, a fiberless optical coupler located on the PIC. The fiberless optical coupler is configured to be coupled to a fiber array. The electro-optical system also includes an optical element, and a mechanical aligner. The optical element is aligned with the fiber array, via the mechanical aligner, for a light from the laser source to transmit in between the fiber array and the PIC through the optical element, when the fiberless optical coupler is coupled to the fiber array.1. An electro-optical system, comprising:
a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) having a laser source located on the PIC; a fiberless optical coupler located on the PIC, wherein the fiberless optical coupler is configured to be coupled to a fiber array; an optical element; and a mechanical aligner, wherein the optical element is aligned with the fiber array, via the mechanical aligner, for a light from the laser source to transmit in between the fiber array and the PIC through the optical element, when the fiberless optical coupler is coupled to the fiber array. 2. The elector-optical system of claim 1, further comprising:
a Multi-Chip Module (MCM), wherein the PIC is located on the MCM. 3. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
an optical connector, wherein the fiber array is located in the optical connector, and the optical connector is coupled to the mechanical aligner to align the optical element with the fiber array. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the optical element comprises:
a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler; and a second plurality of optical elements located in the PIC. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the first plurality of optical elements includes a first waveguide, a first deflector, and a first mirror, and the second plurality of optical elements includes a second waveguide, a second deflector, and a second mirror. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the first deflector, the first mirror, the second deflector, and the second mirror are adjustable to direct the light from the laser source to the first waveguide. 7. The system of claim 2, wherein the mechanical aligner further comprises:
a plurality of mechanical alignment rods located within the fiberless optical coupler and connectible to the optical connector. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the mechanical aligner is located in between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the mechanical aligner is at least a Mechanical Optical Device (MOD), wherein the MOD allows light to pass through between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the MOD further includes grooves that are configured to receive the fiberless optical coupler so that the optical element is aligned to the fiber array, and the light from the laser source is transmitted to the fiber array through the optical element. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the PIC further comprises:
a Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) wafer that is coupled to the mechanical aligner; and a socket coupled to the MCM, wherein the optical element comprises a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the SOI wafer. 12. The system of claim 9, wherein the optical element includes a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the MOD. 13. The system of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first waveguide and the second waveguide is a polymeric waveguide. 14. The system of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first waveguide and the second waveguide is an Si waveguide. 15. A method of manufacturing an electro-optical system, comprising:
forming a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC), the PIC having a laser source formed on the PIC; forming an optical element; forming a mechanical aligner; coupling the PIC on a Multi-Chip Module (MCM); coupling the MCM on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB); and coupling a fiberless optical coupler to the PIC, the fiberless optical coupler configured to be coupled to a fiber array, wherein the optical element is aligned with the fiber array via the mechanical aligner, for a light from the laser source to transmit in between the fiber array and the PIC through the optical element, when the fiberless optical coupler is coupled to the optical connector via the mechanical aligner. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein optical element comprises a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the PIC. 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the mechanical aligner is a Mechanical Optical Device (MOD) that allows light to pass through between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the MOD further includes grooves that are configured to receive the fiberless optical coupler so that the optical element is aligned to the fiber array, and the light from the laser source is transmitted to the fiber array through the optical element. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein
the MOD is located in between the fiberless optical coupler and the PIC, the PIC further comprising:
a Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) wafer that is coupled to the MOD; and
a socket coupled to the MCM, and
the SOI wafer and the socket are coupled to each other, and the MOD is coupled to the SOI wafer, using a flip-chip assembly process. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein optical element includes a first plurality of optical elements located in the fiberless optical coupler, and a second plurality of optical elements located in the MOD. | 3,600 |
341,388 | 16,801,717 | 3,626 | An image display method includes receiving an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged, displaying the integrated image such that a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images is displayed in a first size, receiving a high-resolution image having a same viewpoint as the low-resolution image, the high-resolution image having a higher resolution than the low-resolution image, displaying the high-resolution image in a second size larger than the first size, and displaying the low-resolution image in a third size larger than the first size after the integrated image is displayed and before the high-resolution image is displayed in the second size. | 1. An image display method comprising;
receiving an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged; displaying the integrated image such that a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images is displayed in a first size; receiving a high-resolution image having a same viewpoint as the low-resolution image, the high-resolution image having a higher resolution than the low-resolution image; displaying the high-resolution image in a second size larger than the first size; and displaying the low-resolution image in a third size larger than the first size after the integrated image is displayed and before the high-resolution image is displayed in the second size. 2. The image display method according to claim 1, further comprising:
selecting the low-resolution image from among the low-resolution images according to an operation by a user. 3. The image display method according to claim 1, wherein
the second size is same as the third size. 4. The image display method according to claim 1, comprising;
transitioning from normal mode in which the low-resolution images are received and displayed to high-resolution mode in which the high-resolution image is received and displayed, when a predetermined operation by a user is received. 5. The image display method according to claim 4, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in a first video, and the predetermined operation is an operation for pausing the first video. 6. The image display method according to claim 4, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in a first video, the predetermined operation is a frame-by-frame advance operation or a slow-motion replay operation for the first video, and in the high-resolution mode, a second video including the high-resolution image and having a frame rate higher than a frame rate of the first video is received, and displayed frame by frame or played at a slow speed. 7. The image display method according to claim 4, wherein
more viewpoints are selectable in the high-resolution mode than in the normal mode. 8. An image display method comprising:
receiving an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged; displaying at least one of the low-resolution images; receiving a high-resolution image which shows a partial area of a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images and which has a higher resolution than the low-resolution image; and displaying the high-resolution image. 9. The image display method according to claim 8, wherein
the partial area shows a face or characters. 10. An image distribution method comprising:
generating an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged; distributing the integrated image to an image display apparatus; generating, in response to a request from the image display apparatus, a high-resolution image having a same viewpoint as a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images, the high-resolution image having a higher resolution than the low-resolution image; and distributing, to the image display apparatus, the high-resolution image generated. 11. The image distribution method according to claim 10, comprising:
transitioning from normal mode in which the low-resolution images are distributed to high-resolution mode in which the high-resolution image is distributed, when the image display apparatus receives a predetermined operation by a user. 12. The image distribution method according to claim 11, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in a first video, and the predetermined operation is an operation for pausing the first video. 13. The image distribution method according to claim 11, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in first a video, the predetermined operation is a frame-by-frame advance operation or a slow-motion replay operation for the first video, and in the high-resolution mode, a second video including the high-resolution image and having a frame rate higher than a frame rate of the first video is distributed to the image display apparatus. 14. The image distribution method according to claim 11, wherein
more viewpoints are selectable by the user in the high-resolution mode than in the normal mode. 15. The image distribution method according to claim 10, wherein
the high-resolution image shows a partial area in the low-resolution image. 16. The image distribution method according to claim 15, wherein
the partial area shows a face or characters. 17. The image distribution method according to claim 10, comprising:
when distributing the high-resolution image corresponding to the low-resolution image to the image display apparatus, generating an image which is from a viewpoint close to the viewpoint of the low-resolution image among the viewpoints of the low-resolution images and has a higher resolution than the low-resolution images. 18. The image distribution method according to claim 10, further comprising:
selecting the low-resolution image from among the low-resolution images according to an operation by a user. 19. An image display apparatus comprising:
circuitry; and memory, wherein the circuitry, using the memory, performs the image display method according to claim 1. 20. An image distribution apparatus comprising:
circuitry; and memory, wherein the circuitry, using the memory, performs the image distribution method according to claim 10. | An image display method includes receiving an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged, displaying the integrated image such that a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images is displayed in a first size, receiving a high-resolution image having a same viewpoint as the low-resolution image, the high-resolution image having a higher resolution than the low-resolution image, displaying the high-resolution image in a second size larger than the first size, and displaying the low-resolution image in a third size larger than the first size after the integrated image is displayed and before the high-resolution image is displayed in the second size.1. An image display method comprising;
receiving an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged; displaying the integrated image such that a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images is displayed in a first size; receiving a high-resolution image having a same viewpoint as the low-resolution image, the high-resolution image having a higher resolution than the low-resolution image; displaying the high-resolution image in a second size larger than the first size; and displaying the low-resolution image in a third size larger than the first size after the integrated image is displayed and before the high-resolution image is displayed in the second size. 2. The image display method according to claim 1, further comprising:
selecting the low-resolution image from among the low-resolution images according to an operation by a user. 3. The image display method according to claim 1, wherein
the second size is same as the third size. 4. The image display method according to claim 1, comprising;
transitioning from normal mode in which the low-resolution images are received and displayed to high-resolution mode in which the high-resolution image is received and displayed, when a predetermined operation by a user is received. 5. The image display method according to claim 4, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in a first video, and the predetermined operation is an operation for pausing the first video. 6. The image display method according to claim 4, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in a first video, the predetermined operation is a frame-by-frame advance operation or a slow-motion replay operation for the first video, and in the high-resolution mode, a second video including the high-resolution image and having a frame rate higher than a frame rate of the first video is received, and displayed frame by frame or played at a slow speed. 7. The image display method according to claim 4, wherein
more viewpoints are selectable in the high-resolution mode than in the normal mode. 8. An image display method comprising:
receiving an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged; displaying at least one of the low-resolution images; receiving a high-resolution image which shows a partial area of a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images and which has a higher resolution than the low-resolution image; and displaying the high-resolution image. 9. The image display method according to claim 8, wherein
the partial area shows a face or characters. 10. An image distribution method comprising:
generating an integrated image in which low-resolution images of a scene from different viewpoints are arranged; distributing the integrated image to an image display apparatus; generating, in response to a request from the image display apparatus, a high-resolution image having a same viewpoint as a low-resolution image among the low-resolution images, the high-resolution image having a higher resolution than the low-resolution image; and distributing, to the image display apparatus, the high-resolution image generated. 11. The image distribution method according to claim 10, comprising:
transitioning from normal mode in which the low-resolution images are distributed to high-resolution mode in which the high-resolution image is distributed, when the image display apparatus receives a predetermined operation by a user. 12. The image distribution method according to claim 11, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in a first video, and the predetermined operation is an operation for pausing the first video. 13. The image distribution method according to claim 11, wherein
the low-resolution image is included in first a video, the predetermined operation is a frame-by-frame advance operation or a slow-motion replay operation for the first video, and in the high-resolution mode, a second video including the high-resolution image and having a frame rate higher than a frame rate of the first video is distributed to the image display apparatus. 14. The image distribution method according to claim 11, wherein
more viewpoints are selectable by the user in the high-resolution mode than in the normal mode. 15. The image distribution method according to claim 10, wherein
the high-resolution image shows a partial area in the low-resolution image. 16. The image distribution method according to claim 15, wherein
the partial area shows a face or characters. 17. The image distribution method according to claim 10, comprising:
when distributing the high-resolution image corresponding to the low-resolution image to the image display apparatus, generating an image which is from a viewpoint close to the viewpoint of the low-resolution image among the viewpoints of the low-resolution images and has a higher resolution than the low-resolution images. 18. The image distribution method according to claim 10, further comprising:
selecting the low-resolution image from among the low-resolution images according to an operation by a user. 19. An image display apparatus comprising:
circuitry; and memory, wherein the circuitry, using the memory, performs the image display method according to claim 1. 20. An image distribution apparatus comprising:
circuitry; and memory, wherein the circuitry, using the memory, performs the image distribution method according to claim 10. | 3,600 |
341,389 | 16,801,731 | 3,626 | Provided herein are approaches for controlling radicals in proximity to a wafer. In some embodiments, a system may include a radical source operable to generate radicals in proximity to the wafer, and a filter positioned between the radical source and the wafer, wherein the filter includes a first plate operable to control radicals generated by the radical source. The system may further include an ion source operable to deliver an ion beam to the wafer, wherein the ion beam passes outside the filter. | 1. A system, comprising:
a radical source operable to generate radicals in proximity to a wafer; a filter positioned between the radical source and the wafer, wherein the filter includes a first plate operable to control radicals generated by the radical source; and an ion source operable to deliver an ion beam to the wafer, wherein the ion beam passes outside the filter. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the radical source is a tubular cathode. 3. The system of claim 1, the filter comprising a second plate extending substantially parallel to the first plate, wherein the radicals pass between the first plate and the second plate. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate is heated, and wherein the second plate is maintained approximately at room temperature. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein a temperature of the first plate is at least ten times greater than the room temperature of the second plate. 6. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate and the second plate are positioned on opposite sides of the radicals. 7. The system of claim 3, wherein the ion beam is delivered to the wafer along a beamline, and wherein the beamline is positioned below the filter. 8. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate is biasable to have a positive charge, and wherein the second plate is biasable to have a negative charge. 9. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate includes a first surface facing the radicals, wherein the second plate includes a second surface facing the radicals, and wherein the first and second surfaces converge towards one another. 10. An ion implantation system, comprising:
an ion source operable to deliver an ion beam to a wafer; and a radical apparatus downstream of the ion source, the radical apparatus comprising:
a radical source operable to generate radicals in proximity to the wafer; and
a filter positioned between the radical source and the wafer, wherein the filter includes a first plate and a second plate for receiving the radicals therebetween. 11. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the radical source is a tubular cathode, and wherein the tubular cathode delivers the radicals as a radical band along a radical direction. 12. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the first plate is heated, and wherein the second plate is maintained substantially at room temperature. 13. The ion implantation system of claim 12, wherein a temperature of the first plate is at least 10 times greater than the room temperature of the second plate. 14. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the first plate and the second plate are positioned on opposite sides of the radicals, wherein the first plate has a positive charge, and wherein the second plate has a negative charge. 15. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the ion beam is delivered to the wafer along a beamline, and wherein the beamline is positioned below the filter. 16. The s ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the first plate includes a first surface facing the radicals, wherein the second plate includes a second surface facing the radicals, and wherein the first and second surfaces converge towards one another. 17. A method, comprising:
delivering an ion beam and radicals toward a wafer; and controlling the radicals using a filter positioned upstream the wafer, the filter including a first plate and a second plate separated from one another, and the filter receiving the radicals. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising heating the first plate to prevent the radicals from attaching to the first plate. 19. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
generating the radicals as a radical band traversing a radical direction; and positioning the first plate and the second plate on opposite sides of the radical band. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising biasing the first plate with a positive charge and biasing the second plate with a negative charge. | Provided herein are approaches for controlling radicals in proximity to a wafer. In some embodiments, a system may include a radical source operable to generate radicals in proximity to the wafer, and a filter positioned between the radical source and the wafer, wherein the filter includes a first plate operable to control radicals generated by the radical source. The system may further include an ion source operable to deliver an ion beam to the wafer, wherein the ion beam passes outside the filter.1. A system, comprising:
a radical source operable to generate radicals in proximity to a wafer; a filter positioned between the radical source and the wafer, wherein the filter includes a first plate operable to control radicals generated by the radical source; and an ion source operable to deliver an ion beam to the wafer, wherein the ion beam passes outside the filter. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the radical source is a tubular cathode. 3. The system of claim 1, the filter comprising a second plate extending substantially parallel to the first plate, wherein the radicals pass between the first plate and the second plate. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate is heated, and wherein the second plate is maintained approximately at room temperature. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein a temperature of the first plate is at least ten times greater than the room temperature of the second plate. 6. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate and the second plate are positioned on opposite sides of the radicals. 7. The system of claim 3, wherein the ion beam is delivered to the wafer along a beamline, and wherein the beamline is positioned below the filter. 8. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate is biasable to have a positive charge, and wherein the second plate is biasable to have a negative charge. 9. The system of claim 3, wherein the first plate includes a first surface facing the radicals, wherein the second plate includes a second surface facing the radicals, and wherein the first and second surfaces converge towards one another. 10. An ion implantation system, comprising:
an ion source operable to deliver an ion beam to a wafer; and a radical apparatus downstream of the ion source, the radical apparatus comprising:
a radical source operable to generate radicals in proximity to the wafer; and
a filter positioned between the radical source and the wafer, wherein the filter includes a first plate and a second plate for receiving the radicals therebetween. 11. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the radical source is a tubular cathode, and wherein the tubular cathode delivers the radicals as a radical band along a radical direction. 12. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the first plate is heated, and wherein the second plate is maintained substantially at room temperature. 13. The ion implantation system of claim 12, wherein a temperature of the first plate is at least 10 times greater than the room temperature of the second plate. 14. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the first plate and the second plate are positioned on opposite sides of the radicals, wherein the first plate has a positive charge, and wherein the second plate has a negative charge. 15. The ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the ion beam is delivered to the wafer along a beamline, and wherein the beamline is positioned below the filter. 16. The s ion implantation system of claim 10, wherein the first plate includes a first surface facing the radicals, wherein the second plate includes a second surface facing the radicals, and wherein the first and second surfaces converge towards one another. 17. A method, comprising:
delivering an ion beam and radicals toward a wafer; and controlling the radicals using a filter positioned upstream the wafer, the filter including a first plate and a second plate separated from one another, and the filter receiving the radicals. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising heating the first plate to prevent the radicals from attaching to the first plate. 19. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
generating the radicals as a radical band traversing a radical direction; and positioning the first plate and the second plate on opposite sides of the radical band. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising biasing the first plate with a positive charge and biasing the second plate with a negative charge. | 3,600 |
341,390 | 16,801,735 | 3,626 | Systems and methods employ bioresorbable corneal implants to treat corneal ectatic disorders and/or refractive errors. The corneal implants may be formed from a porous microstructure that can encourage the proliferation of endogenous keratocytes. As such, the corneal implants act as tissue scaffolds that promote tissue growth to increase the biomechanical stability and/or change the shape of the cornea. Over time, the corneal implants may resorb via hydrolysis or enzymatic breakdown, negating the risks of inflammation, scarring, or foreign body response. The corneal implants may also employ drug coating(s) to promote tissue growth. | 1. A corneal implant, comprising:
a body formed from a material that is configured to resorb into tissue of a cornea over a period of time, the body having an anterior surface and a posterior surface; and a first drug coating applied to an anterior surface of the body and/or a second drug coating applied to a posterior surface of the body, the first drug coating or the second drug coating formulated at least to promote keratocyte proliferation in and around the body. 2. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body includes a porous microstructure that promotes keratocyte mobility from the native stromal tissue surrounding the body. 3. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the material is configured to resorb into the corneal tissue over a period of time by hydrolytic or enzymatic action. 4. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body is formed from a bioresorbable polymer. 5. The corneal implant of claim 4, wherein the bioresorbable polymer includes polylactide (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), or poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA). 6. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the material is configured to resorb into the corneal tissue over a plurality of weeks. 7. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating elute over the period of time for resorption of the body. 8. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating include a growth factor. 9. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating includes a plurality of drugs that are layered to allow the plurality of drugs to elute in an order. 10. The corneal implant of claim 9, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating include a growth factor and a cross-linking agent layered to allow the growth factor to elute prior to the cross-linking agent, the cross-linking agent generating chemical cross-links between native collagen fibers and collagen formed in and around the body. 11. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body has a neutral shape that does not impart changes to a curvature of an anterior surface of the cornea. 12. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body is shaped to impart a refractive change in the cornea. 13. The corneal implant of claim 12, wherein the anterior surface of the body is convex to increase curvature of an anterior surface of the cornea. 14. The corneal implant of claim 12, wherein the anterior surface of the body is concave to decrease curvature of an anterior surface of the cornea. 15. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the corneal implant has a thickness of approximately approximately 100 μm to approximately 300 μm. 16. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body has optical transmissivity in a wavelength range from approximately 400 nm to approximately 700 nm. 17. A method for producing a corneal implant, comprising:
forming a body from a material that is configured to resorb into tissue of a cornea over a period of time, the body having an anterior surface and a posterior surface; and applying a first drug coating to an anterior surface of the body and/or a second drug coating to a posterior surface of the body, the first drug coating or the second drug coating formulated at least to promote keratocyte proliferation in and around the body. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the body is formed with a porous microstructure that promotes keratocyte mobility from the native stromal tissue surrounding the body. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating includes a plurality of drugs that are layered to allow the plurality of drugs to elute according to an order. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising shaping the anterior surface of the body to impart a refractive change in the cornea. | Systems and methods employ bioresorbable corneal implants to treat corneal ectatic disorders and/or refractive errors. The corneal implants may be formed from a porous microstructure that can encourage the proliferation of endogenous keratocytes. As such, the corneal implants act as tissue scaffolds that promote tissue growth to increase the biomechanical stability and/or change the shape of the cornea. Over time, the corneal implants may resorb via hydrolysis or enzymatic breakdown, negating the risks of inflammation, scarring, or foreign body response. The corneal implants may also employ drug coating(s) to promote tissue growth.1. A corneal implant, comprising:
a body formed from a material that is configured to resorb into tissue of a cornea over a period of time, the body having an anterior surface and a posterior surface; and a first drug coating applied to an anterior surface of the body and/or a second drug coating applied to a posterior surface of the body, the first drug coating or the second drug coating formulated at least to promote keratocyte proliferation in and around the body. 2. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body includes a porous microstructure that promotes keratocyte mobility from the native stromal tissue surrounding the body. 3. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the material is configured to resorb into the corneal tissue over a period of time by hydrolytic or enzymatic action. 4. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body is formed from a bioresorbable polymer. 5. The corneal implant of claim 4, wherein the bioresorbable polymer includes polylactide (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), or poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA). 6. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the material is configured to resorb into the corneal tissue over a plurality of weeks. 7. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating elute over the period of time for resorption of the body. 8. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating include a growth factor. 9. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating includes a plurality of drugs that are layered to allow the plurality of drugs to elute in an order. 10. The corneal implant of claim 9, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating include a growth factor and a cross-linking agent layered to allow the growth factor to elute prior to the cross-linking agent, the cross-linking agent generating chemical cross-links between native collagen fibers and collagen formed in and around the body. 11. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body has a neutral shape that does not impart changes to a curvature of an anterior surface of the cornea. 12. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body is shaped to impart a refractive change in the cornea. 13. The corneal implant of claim 12, wherein the anterior surface of the body is convex to increase curvature of an anterior surface of the cornea. 14. The corneal implant of claim 12, wherein the anterior surface of the body is concave to decrease curvature of an anterior surface of the cornea. 15. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the corneal implant has a thickness of approximately approximately 100 μm to approximately 300 μm. 16. The corneal implant of claim 1, wherein the body has optical transmissivity in a wavelength range from approximately 400 nm to approximately 700 nm. 17. A method for producing a corneal implant, comprising:
forming a body from a material that is configured to resorb into tissue of a cornea over a period of time, the body having an anterior surface and a posterior surface; and applying a first drug coating to an anterior surface of the body and/or a second drug coating to a posterior surface of the body, the first drug coating or the second drug coating formulated at least to promote keratocyte proliferation in and around the body. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the body is formed with a porous microstructure that promotes keratocyte mobility from the native stromal tissue surrounding the body. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the first drug coating or the second drug coating includes a plurality of drugs that are layered to allow the plurality of drugs to elute according to an order. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising shaping the anterior surface of the body to impart a refractive change in the cornea. | 3,600 |
341,391 | 16,801,726 | 3,626 | Scavenging compounds and compositions useful in reducing sulfide emissions from asphalt, such as polymer-treated asphalt, are disclosed. The scavenger compositions may include sulfide-scavenging agents. The scavenger compositions also include a metal-containing compound and optionally a solvent. Any of the compositions, sulfide-scavenging agents and metal-containing compounds may be anhydrous. Methods of using the compositions to reduce hydrogen sulfide emissions from asphalt are also disclosed. | 1. A composition for reducing hydrogen sulfide emission from asphalt, comprising:
(a) a metal-containing compound; and (b) a sulfide-scavenging agent selected from the group consisting of hexamethylenetetramine and a 1,3,5-triazine derivative of Formula I: 2. The composition of claim 1, further comprising asphalt. 3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the asphalt is polymer-treated asphalt. 4. The composition of claim 2, wherein the asphalt comprises polyphosphoric acid. 5. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is independently selected from straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, hydroxyl substituted straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, and straight or branched C6-C30 alkoxy substituted with straight or branched C1-C30 alkoxy. 6. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is selected from C1-C9 straight or branched alkyl. 7. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is the same substituent. 8. The composition of claim 1, wherein R1 is —CH2CH2OH, R2 is —CH2CH2OH, and R3 is —CH2CH2OH. 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent is hexamethylenetetramine. 10. The composition of claim 1, further comprising a polar solvent selected from the group consisting of diethylene glycol, 2-butoxyethanol, propylene glycol, monoethanol amine, and any combination thereof. 11. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises about 10 weight % to about 90 weight % of the sulfide-scavenging agent, about 1 weight % to about 50 weight % of the metal-containing compound, and optionally about 10 weight % to about 90 weight % of a solvent. 12. The composition of claim 3, wherein the asphalt comprises about 0.1 weight % to about 10 weight % of the polymer. 13. The composition of claim 1, wherein the metal of the metal-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of Cu (II), Zn (II), Fe (II), Ni (II), Co (II), Mn (II), Ca (II), Mg (II), and any combination thereof. 14. The composition of claim 1, wherein the metal-containing compound comprises a member selected from the group consisting of a metal carboxylate, a metal oxide, a metal carbonate, and any combination thereof. 15. The composition of claim 1, wherein the metal-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of copper acetate, copper bis-glycinate, zinc acetate, zinc bis-glycinate, zinc octoate, zinc 2-ethylhexanoate, copper 2-ethylhexanoate, iron 2-ethylhexanoate and any combination thereof. 16. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition, the metal-containing compound and/or the sulfide-scavenging agent is anhydrous. 17. A method of reducing hydrogen sulfide emission from asphalt, comprising:
combining asphalt with a composition, the composition comprising a metal-containing compound and a sulfide-scavenging agent selected from the group consisting of hexamethylenetetramine and a 1,3,5-triazine derivative of Formula I: 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is independently selected from straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, hydroxyl substituted straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, and straight or branched C6-C30 alkoxy substituted with straight or branched C1-C30 alkoxy. 19. A composition, comprising:
(a) asphalt; (b) a metal-containing compound; and (c) a sulfide-scavenging agent selected from the group consisting of hexamethylenetetramine and a 1,3,5-triazine derivative of Formula I: 20. The composition of claim 19, wherein the metal-containing compound is copper acetate. | Scavenging compounds and compositions useful in reducing sulfide emissions from asphalt, such as polymer-treated asphalt, are disclosed. The scavenger compositions may include sulfide-scavenging agents. The scavenger compositions also include a metal-containing compound and optionally a solvent. Any of the compositions, sulfide-scavenging agents and metal-containing compounds may be anhydrous. Methods of using the compositions to reduce hydrogen sulfide emissions from asphalt are also disclosed.1. A composition for reducing hydrogen sulfide emission from asphalt, comprising:
(a) a metal-containing compound; and (b) a sulfide-scavenging agent selected from the group consisting of hexamethylenetetramine and a 1,3,5-triazine derivative of Formula I: 2. The composition of claim 1, further comprising asphalt. 3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the asphalt is polymer-treated asphalt. 4. The composition of claim 2, wherein the asphalt comprises polyphosphoric acid. 5. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is independently selected from straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, hydroxyl substituted straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, and straight or branched C6-C30 alkoxy substituted with straight or branched C1-C30 alkoxy. 6. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is selected from C1-C9 straight or branched alkyl. 7. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is the same substituent. 8. The composition of claim 1, wherein R1 is —CH2CH2OH, R2 is —CH2CH2OH, and R3 is —CH2CH2OH. 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent is hexamethylenetetramine. 10. The composition of claim 1, further comprising a polar solvent selected from the group consisting of diethylene glycol, 2-butoxyethanol, propylene glycol, monoethanol amine, and any combination thereof. 11. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises about 10 weight % to about 90 weight % of the sulfide-scavenging agent, about 1 weight % to about 50 weight % of the metal-containing compound, and optionally about 10 weight % to about 90 weight % of a solvent. 12. The composition of claim 3, wherein the asphalt comprises about 0.1 weight % to about 10 weight % of the polymer. 13. The composition of claim 1, wherein the metal of the metal-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of Cu (II), Zn (II), Fe (II), Ni (II), Co (II), Mn (II), Ca (II), Mg (II), and any combination thereof. 14. The composition of claim 1, wherein the metal-containing compound comprises a member selected from the group consisting of a metal carboxylate, a metal oxide, a metal carbonate, and any combination thereof. 15. The composition of claim 1, wherein the metal-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of copper acetate, copper bis-glycinate, zinc acetate, zinc bis-glycinate, zinc octoate, zinc 2-ethylhexanoate, copper 2-ethylhexanoate, iron 2-ethylhexanoate and any combination thereof. 16. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition, the metal-containing compound and/or the sulfide-scavenging agent is anhydrous. 17. A method of reducing hydrogen sulfide emission from asphalt, comprising:
combining asphalt with a composition, the composition comprising a metal-containing compound and a sulfide-scavenging agent selected from the group consisting of hexamethylenetetramine and a 1,3,5-triazine derivative of Formula I: 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the sulfide-scavenging agent comprises Formula I, and each of R1, R2, and R3 is independently selected from straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, hydroxyl substituted straight or branched C6-C30 alkyl, and straight or branched C6-C30 alkoxy substituted with straight or branched C1-C30 alkoxy. 19. A composition, comprising:
(a) asphalt; (b) a metal-containing compound; and (c) a sulfide-scavenging agent selected from the group consisting of hexamethylenetetramine and a 1,3,5-triazine derivative of Formula I: 20. The composition of claim 19, wherein the metal-containing compound is copper acetate. | 3,600 |
341,392 | 16,801,693 | 3,626 | A polishing method capable of accurately measuring a film thickness of a substrate, such as a wafer, by enhancing light intensity of a flash-light source, such as a xenon flash lamp is disclosed. The polishing method includes: while an optical sensor head is moving across a substrate, causing a flash-light source to emit light plural times in a first exposure time of a light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head, further causing the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a second exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, and capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head; generating a spectrum of the reflected light; and detecting a surface state of the substrate from the spectrum. | 1. A polishing method of polishing a substrate, comprising:
rotating a polishing table together with an optical sensor head optically coupled to a light detector and a flash-light source; polishing a substrate by pressing the substrate against a polishing pad on the polishing table while moving the optical sensor head across the substrate; while the optical sensor head is moving across the substrate, causing the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a first exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head, further causing the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a second exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, and capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head; generating a spectrum of the reflected light; and detecting a surface state of the substrate from the spectrum. 2. The polishing method according to claim 1, wherein the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the first exposure time is the same as the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the second exposure time. 3. The polishing method according to claim 1, wherein the second exposure time is longer than the first exposure time. 4. The polishing method according to claim 3, wherein the first exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across an edge portion of the substrate. 5. The polishing method according to claim 3, wherein the second exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across a central portion of the substrate. 6. A polishing apparatus for polishing a substrate, comprising:
a polishing table for supporting a polishing pad; a table motor configured to rotate the polishing table; an optical sensor head located in the polishing table; a flash-light source and a light detector optically coupled to the optical sensor head; a polishing head configured to press a substrate against the polishing pad to polish the substrate; and an operation controller configured to control operations of the flash-light source and the light detector, the operation controller being configured to,
while the optical sensor head is moving across the substrate, instruct the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a first exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, instruct the light detector to capture reflected light from the substrate via the optical sensor head, further instruct the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a second exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, and instruct the light detector to capture reflected light from the substrate via the optical sensor head,
generate a spectrum of the reflected light, and
detect a surface state of the substrate from the spectrum. 7. The polishing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the first exposure time is the same as the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the second exposure time. 8. The polishing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second exposure time is longer than the first exposure time. 9. The polishing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across an edge portion of the substrate. 10. The polishing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across a central portion of the substrate. | A polishing method capable of accurately measuring a film thickness of a substrate, such as a wafer, by enhancing light intensity of a flash-light source, such as a xenon flash lamp is disclosed. The polishing method includes: while an optical sensor head is moving across a substrate, causing a flash-light source to emit light plural times in a first exposure time of a light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head, further causing the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a second exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, and capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head; generating a spectrum of the reflected light; and detecting a surface state of the substrate from the spectrum.1. A polishing method of polishing a substrate, comprising:
rotating a polishing table together with an optical sensor head optically coupled to a light detector and a flash-light source; polishing a substrate by pressing the substrate against a polishing pad on the polishing table while moving the optical sensor head across the substrate; while the optical sensor head is moving across the substrate, causing the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a first exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head, further causing the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a second exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, and capturing reflected light from the substrate by the light detector via the optical sensor head; generating a spectrum of the reflected light; and detecting a surface state of the substrate from the spectrum. 2. The polishing method according to claim 1, wherein the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the first exposure time is the same as the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the second exposure time. 3. The polishing method according to claim 1, wherein the second exposure time is longer than the first exposure time. 4. The polishing method according to claim 3, wherein the first exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across an edge portion of the substrate. 5. The polishing method according to claim 3, wherein the second exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across a central portion of the substrate. 6. A polishing apparatus for polishing a substrate, comprising:
a polishing table for supporting a polishing pad; a table motor configured to rotate the polishing table; an optical sensor head located in the polishing table; a flash-light source and a light detector optically coupled to the optical sensor head; a polishing head configured to press a substrate against the polishing pad to polish the substrate; and an operation controller configured to control operations of the flash-light source and the light detector, the operation controller being configured to,
while the optical sensor head is moving across the substrate, instruct the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a first exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, instruct the light detector to capture reflected light from the substrate via the optical sensor head, further instruct the flash-light source to emit light plural times in a second exposure time of the light detector to direct the light to the substrate via the optical sensor head, and instruct the light detector to capture reflected light from the substrate via the optical sensor head,
generate a spectrum of the reflected light, and
detect a surface state of the substrate from the spectrum. 7. The polishing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the first exposure time is the same as the number of times the flash-light source emits the light in the second exposure time. 8. The polishing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second exposure time is longer than the first exposure time. 9. The polishing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across an edge portion of the substrate. 10. The polishing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second exposure time is an exposure time when the optical sensor head is moving across a central portion of the substrate. | 3,600 |
341,393 | 16,801,719 | 3,626 | A fan cover is configured to be mounted on a housing of a fan module. The fan cover includes a frame having an opening formed therein, a central hub positioned within the opening of the frame, and a plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members that extend from the central hub to the frame. Gaps between the spiral-shaped air guidance members of the plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members enable air to flow from the fan module through the fan cover. Each spiral-shaped air guidance member is configured to extend perpendicularly from the central hub and curve towards the frame at an angle with respect to the opening of the frame. Each spiral-shaped air guidance member further has a plurality of openings formed therein to facilitate air flow. | 1. A fan cover configured to be mounted on a housing of a fan module, the fan cover comprising:
a frame having an opening formed therein; a central hub positioned within the opening of the frame; and a plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members that extend from the central hub to the frame, wherein gaps between the spiral-shaped air guidance members of the plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members enable air to flow from the fan module through the fan cover. 2. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member extends perpendicularly from the central hub and curves towards the frame at an angle with respect to the opening of the frame. 3. The fan cover of claim 2, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member projects above a plane defined by the frame. 4. The fan cover of claim 3, wherein the spiral-shaped air guidance member is helical in construction. 5. The fan cover of claim 4, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member has a plurality of openings formed therein. 6. The fan cover of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of projections extending from the frame, the plurality of projections each being received within a corresponding aperture formed in the housing of the fan module to align and receive the fan cover to the fan module. 7. The fan cover of claim 6, wherein the plurality of projections includes four projections. 8. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the opening of the frame is larger than a fan vent of the fan module. 9. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the central hub is smaller than a diameter of a fan motor of the fan module. 10. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein the fan cover is fabricated from plastic material. 11. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member is shaped to approximate a fan blade of the fan module. 12. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein the fan cover is configured to make a thermal source cooler. 13. A fan module comprising:
a housing; an axial fan coupled to the housing; a motor coupled to the axial fan to drive a rotation of the axial fan; and a cover configured to be mounted on a housing of a fan module, the fan cover including
a frame having an opening formed therein, the frame being configured to be secured to the housing,
a central hub positioned within the opening of the frame, and
a plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members that extend from the central hub to the frame,
wherein gaps between the spiral-shaped air guidance members of the plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members enable air to flow from the fan module through the fan cover. 14. The fan module of claim 13, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member extends perpendicularly from the central hub and curves towards the frame at an angle with respect to the opening of the frame. 15. The fan module of claim 14, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member projects above a plane defined by the frame. 16. The fan module of claim 15, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member has a plurality of openings formed therein. 17. The fan module of claim 13, further comprising a plurality of projections extending from the frame, the plurality of projections each being received within a corresponding aperture formed in the housing of the fan module to align and receive the fan cover to the fan module. 18. The fan module of claim 17, wherein the plurality of projections include four projections. 19. The fan module of claim 18, wherein each projection includes a shaft and a rivet head that is formed on the end of the shaft. 20. The fan module of claim 13, wherein a diameter of the central hub is smaller than a diameter of the fan motor of the fan module. | A fan cover is configured to be mounted on a housing of a fan module. The fan cover includes a frame having an opening formed therein, a central hub positioned within the opening of the frame, and a plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members that extend from the central hub to the frame. Gaps between the spiral-shaped air guidance members of the plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members enable air to flow from the fan module through the fan cover. Each spiral-shaped air guidance member is configured to extend perpendicularly from the central hub and curve towards the frame at an angle with respect to the opening of the frame. Each spiral-shaped air guidance member further has a plurality of openings formed therein to facilitate air flow.1. A fan cover configured to be mounted on a housing of a fan module, the fan cover comprising:
a frame having an opening formed therein; a central hub positioned within the opening of the frame; and a plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members that extend from the central hub to the frame, wherein gaps between the spiral-shaped air guidance members of the plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members enable air to flow from the fan module through the fan cover. 2. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member extends perpendicularly from the central hub and curves towards the frame at an angle with respect to the opening of the frame. 3. The fan cover of claim 2, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member projects above a plane defined by the frame. 4. The fan cover of claim 3, wherein the spiral-shaped air guidance member is helical in construction. 5. The fan cover of claim 4, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member has a plurality of openings formed therein. 6. The fan cover of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of projections extending from the frame, the plurality of projections each being received within a corresponding aperture formed in the housing of the fan module to align and receive the fan cover to the fan module. 7. The fan cover of claim 6, wherein the plurality of projections includes four projections. 8. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the opening of the frame is larger than a fan vent of the fan module. 9. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the central hub is smaller than a diameter of a fan motor of the fan module. 10. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein the fan cover is fabricated from plastic material. 11. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member is shaped to approximate a fan blade of the fan module. 12. The fan cover of claim 1, wherein the fan cover is configured to make a thermal source cooler. 13. A fan module comprising:
a housing; an axial fan coupled to the housing; a motor coupled to the axial fan to drive a rotation of the axial fan; and a cover configured to be mounted on a housing of a fan module, the fan cover including
a frame having an opening formed therein, the frame being configured to be secured to the housing,
a central hub positioned within the opening of the frame, and
a plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members that extend from the central hub to the frame,
wherein gaps between the spiral-shaped air guidance members of the plurality of spiral-shaped air guidance members enable air to flow from the fan module through the fan cover. 14. The fan module of claim 13, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member extends perpendicularly from the central hub and curves towards the frame at an angle with respect to the opening of the frame. 15. The fan module of claim 14, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member projects above a plane defined by the frame. 16. The fan module of claim 15, wherein each spiral-shaped air guidance member has a plurality of openings formed therein. 17. The fan module of claim 13, further comprising a plurality of projections extending from the frame, the plurality of projections each being received within a corresponding aperture formed in the housing of the fan module to align and receive the fan cover to the fan module. 18. The fan module of claim 17, wherein the plurality of projections include four projections. 19. The fan module of claim 18, wherein each projection includes a shaft and a rivet head that is formed on the end of the shaft. 20. The fan module of claim 13, wherein a diameter of the central hub is smaller than a diameter of the fan motor of the fan module. | 3,600 |
341,394 | 16,801,742 | 2,658 | A voice identification method, device, apparatus, and a storage medium are provided. The method includes: receiving voice data; and performing a voice identification on the voice data, to obtain first text data associated with the voice data; determining common text data in a preset fixed data table, wherein a similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets a preset condition, wherein the determined common text data is a voice identification result with an occurrence number larger than a first preset threshold; and replacing the first text data with the determined common text data. Voice identification accuracy is improved. | 1. A voice identification method, comprising:
receiving voice data; and performing a voice identification on the voice data, to obtain first text data associated with the voice data; determining common text data in a preset fixed data table, wherein a similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets a preset condition, wherein the determined common text data is a voice identification result with an occurrence number larger than a first preset threshold; and replacing the first text data with the determined common text data. 2. The voice identification method according to claim 1, wherein the performing a voice identification on the voice data comprises: performing an offline voice identification on the voice data, wherein
the common text data is obtained by an online voice identification and has the occurrence number larger than the first preset threshold. 3. The voice identification method according to claim 1, further comprising: establishing the preset fixed data table by:
performing an online voice identification on a pre-obtained voice data, to obtain second text data associated with the pre-obtained voice data; determining a semantic type of the second text data is offline processable; performing a word segment on the second text data, to obtain at least one word; and determine whether the obtained at least one word or the second text data is in a fixed data table; updating an occurrence number of the at least one word or of the second text data in a temporary data table, in a case where the obtained at least one word or the second text data is not comprised in the fixed datable; and recording a word or second text data having an occurrence number larger than a second preset threshold into the fixed data table, as a candidate common text data in the fixed data table. 4. The voice identification method of claim 3, further comprising:
releasing a storage space of the temporary data table in a Least Recently Used mode, in a case where a storage amount of the temporary data table reaches a storage upper limit. 5. The voice identification method according to claim 1, wherein semantics parsing result of the common text data is stored in the preset fixed data table; and
after the determining common text data in a preset fixed data table, the method further comprises extracting the parsed semantics of the at common text data from the preset fixed data table. 6. The voice identification method according to claim 1, wherein the determining common text data in a preset fixed data table comprises:
comparing the first text data with each candidate common text data in the preset fixed data table, by comparing phonemes at the same position of the first text data and the candidate common text data one by one to determine a same phoneme; and determining that the similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets the preset condition, in a case where a ratio of the number of same phonemes to the number of all phonemes is larger than a preset ratio threshold. 7. A voice identification device, comprising:
one or more processors; and a memory for storing one or more programs, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to: receive voice data; and perform a voice identification on the voice data, to obtain first text data associated with the voice data; determine common text data in a preset fixed data table, wherein a similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets a preset condition, wherein the determined common text data is a voice identification result with an occurrence number larger than a first preset threshold; and replace the first text data with the determined common text data, in response to a determination of the common text data in the preset fixed data table. 8. The voice identification device according to claim 7, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to perform an offline voice identification on the voice data; and
set the fixed data table, wherein the fixed data table comprises one or more common text data, and the common text data is obtained by an online voice identification and has the occurrence number larger than the first preset threshold. 9. The voice identification device according to claim 8, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to:
perform an online voice identification on a pre-obtained voice data, to obtain second text data associated with the pre-obtained voice data; determine a semantic type of the second text data is offline processable; perform a word segment on the second text data, to obtain at least one word; and determine whether the obtained at least one word or the second text data is in a fixed data table; update an occurrence number of the at least one word or of the second text data in a temporary data table, in a case where the obtained at least one word or the second text data is not comprised in the fixed datable; and record a word or second text data having an occurrence number larger than a second preset threshold into the fixed data table, as a candidate common text data in the fixed data table. 10. The voice identification device of claim 9, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to:
release a storage space of the temporary data table in a Least Recently Used mode, in a case where a storage amount of the temporary data table reaches a storage upper limit. 11. The voice identification device according to claim 7, wherein semantics parsing result of the common text data is stored in the preset fixed data table; and
the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to extract the parsed semantics of the at common text data from the preset fixed data table, in response to a determination of the common text data in the preset fixed data table. 12. The voice identification device according to claim 7, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to:
compare the first text data with each candidate common text data in the preset fixed data table, by comparing phonemes at the same position of the first text data and the candidate common text data one by one to determine a same phoneme; and determine that the similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets the preset condition, in a case where a ratio of the number of same phonemes to the number of all phonemes is larger than a preset ratio threshold. 13. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, in which computer-executable instructions are stored, wherein the instructions, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to implement the method of claim 1. | A voice identification method, device, apparatus, and a storage medium are provided. The method includes: receiving voice data; and performing a voice identification on the voice data, to obtain first text data associated with the voice data; determining common text data in a preset fixed data table, wherein a similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets a preset condition, wherein the determined common text data is a voice identification result with an occurrence number larger than a first preset threshold; and replacing the first text data with the determined common text data. Voice identification accuracy is improved.1. A voice identification method, comprising:
receiving voice data; and performing a voice identification on the voice data, to obtain first text data associated with the voice data; determining common text data in a preset fixed data table, wherein a similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets a preset condition, wherein the determined common text data is a voice identification result with an occurrence number larger than a first preset threshold; and replacing the first text data with the determined common text data. 2. The voice identification method according to claim 1, wherein the performing a voice identification on the voice data comprises: performing an offline voice identification on the voice data, wherein
the common text data is obtained by an online voice identification and has the occurrence number larger than the first preset threshold. 3. The voice identification method according to claim 1, further comprising: establishing the preset fixed data table by:
performing an online voice identification on a pre-obtained voice data, to obtain second text data associated with the pre-obtained voice data; determining a semantic type of the second text data is offline processable; performing a word segment on the second text data, to obtain at least one word; and determine whether the obtained at least one word or the second text data is in a fixed data table; updating an occurrence number of the at least one word or of the second text data in a temporary data table, in a case where the obtained at least one word or the second text data is not comprised in the fixed datable; and recording a word or second text data having an occurrence number larger than a second preset threshold into the fixed data table, as a candidate common text data in the fixed data table. 4. The voice identification method of claim 3, further comprising:
releasing a storage space of the temporary data table in a Least Recently Used mode, in a case where a storage amount of the temporary data table reaches a storage upper limit. 5. The voice identification method according to claim 1, wherein semantics parsing result of the common text data is stored in the preset fixed data table; and
after the determining common text data in a preset fixed data table, the method further comprises extracting the parsed semantics of the at common text data from the preset fixed data table. 6. The voice identification method according to claim 1, wherein the determining common text data in a preset fixed data table comprises:
comparing the first text data with each candidate common text data in the preset fixed data table, by comparing phonemes at the same position of the first text data and the candidate common text data one by one to determine a same phoneme; and determining that the similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets the preset condition, in a case where a ratio of the number of same phonemes to the number of all phonemes is larger than a preset ratio threshold. 7. A voice identification device, comprising:
one or more processors; and a memory for storing one or more programs, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to: receive voice data; and perform a voice identification on the voice data, to obtain first text data associated with the voice data; determine common text data in a preset fixed data table, wherein a similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets a preset condition, wherein the determined common text data is a voice identification result with an occurrence number larger than a first preset threshold; and replace the first text data with the determined common text data, in response to a determination of the common text data in the preset fixed data table. 8. The voice identification device according to claim 7, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to perform an offline voice identification on the voice data; and
set the fixed data table, wherein the fixed data table comprises one or more common text data, and the common text data is obtained by an online voice identification and has the occurrence number larger than the first preset threshold. 9. The voice identification device according to claim 8, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to:
perform an online voice identification on a pre-obtained voice data, to obtain second text data associated with the pre-obtained voice data; determine a semantic type of the second text data is offline processable; perform a word segment on the second text data, to obtain at least one word; and determine whether the obtained at least one word or the second text data is in a fixed data table; update an occurrence number of the at least one word or of the second text data in a temporary data table, in a case where the obtained at least one word or the second text data is not comprised in the fixed datable; and record a word or second text data having an occurrence number larger than a second preset threshold into the fixed data table, as a candidate common text data in the fixed data table. 10. The voice identification device of claim 9, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to:
release a storage space of the temporary data table in a Least Recently Used mode, in a case where a storage amount of the temporary data table reaches a storage upper limit. 11. The voice identification device according to claim 7, wherein semantics parsing result of the common text data is stored in the preset fixed data table; and
the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to extract the parsed semantics of the at common text data from the preset fixed data table, in response to a determination of the common text data in the preset fixed data table. 12. The voice identification device according to claim 7, wherein the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors to enable the one or more processors to:
compare the first text data with each candidate common text data in the preset fixed data table, by comparing phonemes at the same position of the first text data and the candidate common text data one by one to determine a same phoneme; and determine that the similarity between a pronunciation of the determined common text data and a pronunciation of the first text data meets the preset condition, in a case where a ratio of the number of same phonemes to the number of all phonemes is larger than a preset ratio threshold. 13. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, in which computer-executable instructions are stored, wherein the instructions, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to implement the method of claim 1. | 2,600 |
341,395 | 16,801,748 | 2,494 | A system and method for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy. The method includes: determining at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. | 1. A method for detecting manufacturing device exploitable vulnerabilities, comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes communicating with another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes communicating with an unapproved type of device. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein performing the at least one mitigation action further comprises:
severing a connection between the manufacturing device and the other device. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes receiving update data from another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes receiving update data from an unapproved type of device. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein performing the at least one mitigation action further comprises:
deleting the update data received from the other device; and sending new update data to the manufacturing device. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the manufacturing device is any of a programmable logic controller, a human-machine interface, a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, an engineering station, and a historian server. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
querying a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the manufacturing device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
sequentially applying a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determining one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. 10. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions for causing a processing circuitry to execute a process, the process comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 11. A system for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy, comprising:
a processing circuitry; and a memory, the memory containing instructions that, when executed by the processing circuitry, configure the system to: determine at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyze behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and perform at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes communicating with another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes communicating with an unapproved type of device. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein the system is further configured to:
sever a connection between the manufacturing device and the other device. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes receiving update data from another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes receiving update data from an unapproved type of device. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein the system is further configured to:
delete the update data received from the other device; and send new update data to the manufacturing device. 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the manufacturing device is any of a programmable logic controller, a human-machine interface, a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, an engineering station, and a historian server. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
query a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the manufacturing device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
sequentially apply a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determine one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. | A system and method for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy. The method includes: determining at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability.1. A method for detecting manufacturing device exploitable vulnerabilities, comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes communicating with another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes communicating with an unapproved type of device. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein performing the at least one mitigation action further comprises:
severing a connection between the manufacturing device and the other device. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes receiving update data from another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes receiving update data from an unapproved type of device. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein performing the at least one mitigation action further comprises:
deleting the update data received from the other device; and sending new update data to the manufacturing device. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the manufacturing device is any of a programmable logic controller, a human-machine interface, a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, an engineering station, and a historian server. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
querying a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the manufacturing device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
sequentially applying a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determining one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. 10. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions for causing a processing circuitry to execute a process, the process comprising:
determining at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyzing behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and performing at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 11. A system for determining device attributes using a classifier hierarchy, comprising:
a processing circuitry; and a memory, the memory containing instructions that, when executed by the processing circuitry, configure the system to: determine at least one exploitation condition for a manufacturing device based on at least one first device attribute of the manufacturing device and a plurality of second device attributes indicated in a vulnerabilities database, wherein the vulnerabilities database further indicates a plurality of known exploits for the plurality of second device attributes; analyze behavior and configuration of the medical device to detect an exploitable vulnerability for the manufacturing device, wherein the exploitable vulnerability is a behavior or configuration of the manufacturing device which meets the at least one exploitation condition; and perform at least one mitigation action based on the exploitable vulnerability. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes communicating with another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes communicating with an unapproved type of device. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein the system is further configured to:
sever a connection between the manufacturing device and the other device. 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one first device attribute includes a device type, wherein the behavior of the manufacturing device includes receiving update data from another device, wherein the plurality of known exploits includes receiving update data from an unapproved type of device. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the other device is an unapproved type of device, wherein the system is further configured to:
delete the update data received from the other device; and send new update data to the manufacturing device. 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the manufacturing device is any of a programmable logic controller, a human-machine interface, a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, an engineering station, and a historian server. 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
query a vulnerability scanner based on the analyzed behavior and configuration of the manufacturing device, wherein the currently exploitable vulnerability is detected based further on a response of the vulnerability scanner to the query. 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the system is further configured to:
sequentially apply a plurality of sub-models of a hierarchy to a plurality of features extracted from device activity data, wherein the sequential application ends with applying a last sub-model of the plurality of sub-models, wherein each sub-model includes a plurality of classifiers, wherein each sub-model outputs a class when applied to at least a portion of the plurality of features, wherein each class is a classifier output representing a device attribute, wherein applying the plurality of sub-models further comprises iteratively determining a next sub-model to apply based on the class output by a most recently applied sub-model and the hierarchy; and determine one of the at least one first device attribute based on the class output by the last sub-model. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein each classifier is trained to output a class and a confidence score, wherein the class output by each sub-model is determined based on the class and the confidence score output by each classifier of the sub-model. | 2,400 |
341,396 | 16,801,724 | 2,494 | The present specification provides a compound represented by Chemical Formula 1, a colorant composition, a resin composition, a photosensitive material, a color filter and a display device comprising the same. | 1. A compound represented by Chemical Formula 1: 2. The compound of claim 1, the compound having Chemical Formula 2: 3. The compound of claim 1, wherein R15 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen; deuterium; a substituted or unsubstituted monocyclic or polycyclic aryl group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms; and a substituted or unsubstituted monocyclic or polycyclic heteroaryl group having 2 to 30 carbon atoms. 4. The compound of claim 1, wherein X is at least one anion selected from
an anion of a compound containing oxygen and at least one element selected from the group of tungsten, molybdenum, silicon and phosphorous; a trifluoromethanesulfonic acid anion; a bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide anion; a bistrifluoromethanesulfonimide anion; a bisperfluoroethylsulfonimide anion; a tetraphenylborate anion; tetrakis(4-fluorophenyl)borate; tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate; tristrifluoromethanesulfonylmethide; and a halogen group. 5. The compound of claim 1, wherein R15 is a substituted or unsubstituted monocyclic or polycyclic aryl group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms. 6. The compound of claim 1, wherein L2 is a substituted or unsubstituted linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms. 7. The compound of claim 1, wherein the compound represented by Chemical Formula 1 is represented by any one of the following chemical formulae: 8. A colorant composition comprising the compound of claim 1. 9. The colorant composition of claim 8, further comprising at least one of a dye or a pigment. 10. The colorant composition of claim 9, wherein, the dye or the pigment are at least one compound selected from metal-complex-based compounds; azo-based compounds; metal azo-based compounds; quinophthalone-based compounds; isoindoline-based compounds; methine-based compounds; phthalocyanine-based compounds; metal phthalocyanine-based compounds; porphyrin-based compounds; metal porphyrin-based compounds; tetra aza porphyrin-based compounds; metal tetra aza porphyrin-based compounds; cyanine-based compounds; xanthene-based compounds; metal dipyrromethane-based compounds; boron dipyrromethane-based compounds; anthraquinone-based compounds; diketopyrrolopyrrole-based compounds; triarylmethane-based compounds; and perylene-based compounds. 11. A resin composition comprising:
the compound of claim 1; a binder resin; a multifunctional monomer; a photoinitiator; and a solvent. 12. The resin composition of claim 11, wherein, based on a total weight of a solid content in the resin composition, a content of the compound represented by Chemical Formula 1 is from 5% by weight to 60% by weight, a content of the binder resin is from 1% by weight to 60% by weight, a content of the photoinitiator is from 0.1% by weight to 20% by weight, and a content of the multifunctional monomer is from 0.1% by weight to 50% by weight. 13. The resin composition of claim 11, further comprising an antioxidant. 14. A photosensitive material prepared from the resin composition of claim 11. 15. A color filter comprising the photosensitive material of claim 14. 16. A display device comprising the color filter of claim 15. | The present specification provides a compound represented by Chemical Formula 1, a colorant composition, a resin composition, a photosensitive material, a color filter and a display device comprising the same.1. A compound represented by Chemical Formula 1: 2. The compound of claim 1, the compound having Chemical Formula 2: 3. The compound of claim 1, wherein R15 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen; deuterium; a substituted or unsubstituted monocyclic or polycyclic aryl group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms; and a substituted or unsubstituted monocyclic or polycyclic heteroaryl group having 2 to 30 carbon atoms. 4. The compound of claim 1, wherein X is at least one anion selected from
an anion of a compound containing oxygen and at least one element selected from the group of tungsten, molybdenum, silicon and phosphorous; a trifluoromethanesulfonic acid anion; a bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide anion; a bistrifluoromethanesulfonimide anion; a bisperfluoroethylsulfonimide anion; a tetraphenylborate anion; tetrakis(4-fluorophenyl)borate; tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate; tristrifluoromethanesulfonylmethide; and a halogen group. 5. The compound of claim 1, wherein R15 is a substituted or unsubstituted monocyclic or polycyclic aryl group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms. 6. The compound of claim 1, wherein L2 is a substituted or unsubstituted linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms. 7. The compound of claim 1, wherein the compound represented by Chemical Formula 1 is represented by any one of the following chemical formulae: 8. A colorant composition comprising the compound of claim 1. 9. The colorant composition of claim 8, further comprising at least one of a dye or a pigment. 10. The colorant composition of claim 9, wherein, the dye or the pigment are at least one compound selected from metal-complex-based compounds; azo-based compounds; metal azo-based compounds; quinophthalone-based compounds; isoindoline-based compounds; methine-based compounds; phthalocyanine-based compounds; metal phthalocyanine-based compounds; porphyrin-based compounds; metal porphyrin-based compounds; tetra aza porphyrin-based compounds; metal tetra aza porphyrin-based compounds; cyanine-based compounds; xanthene-based compounds; metal dipyrromethane-based compounds; boron dipyrromethane-based compounds; anthraquinone-based compounds; diketopyrrolopyrrole-based compounds; triarylmethane-based compounds; and perylene-based compounds. 11. A resin composition comprising:
the compound of claim 1; a binder resin; a multifunctional monomer; a photoinitiator; and a solvent. 12. The resin composition of claim 11, wherein, based on a total weight of a solid content in the resin composition, a content of the compound represented by Chemical Formula 1 is from 5% by weight to 60% by weight, a content of the binder resin is from 1% by weight to 60% by weight, a content of the photoinitiator is from 0.1% by weight to 20% by weight, and a content of the multifunctional monomer is from 0.1% by weight to 50% by weight. 13. The resin composition of claim 11, further comprising an antioxidant. 14. A photosensitive material prepared from the resin composition of claim 11. 15. A color filter comprising the photosensitive material of claim 14. 16. A display device comprising the color filter of claim 15. | 2,400 |
341,397 | 16,801,740 | 2,874 | The present invention relates to a transparent sealing member. A quartz glass transparent sealing member is used in an optical component having at least one optical element, and a mounting board on which the optical element is mounted, and constitutes, with the mounting board, a package that houses the optical element. The concentration of aluminum in a surface portion is higher than the concentration of aluminum in an inner portion. | 1. A transparent sealing member made of quartz glass, the transparent sealing member being used in an optical component having at least one optical element and a mounting substrate on which the optical element is mounted, and constituting, together with the mounting substrate, a package in which the optical element is accommodated;
wherein an aluminum concentration of a surface portion of the transparent sealing member is higher than an aluminum concentration of an interior portion thereof. 2. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein assuming that the aluminum concentration of the surface portion is represented by A (ppm), and the aluminum concentration of the interior portion is represented by B (ppm), then 10≤A/B≤200. 3. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein assuming that the aluminum concentration of the surface portion is represented by A (ppm), and the aluminum concentration of the interior portion is represented by B (ppm), then 15≤A/B≤60. 4. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein the aluminum concentration of the surface portion is 500 to 2000 ppm, and the aluminum concentration of the interior portion is 10 to 100 ppm. 5. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein:
the surface portion indicates a region having a depth of 0.05 to 0.20 μm from a surface; and the interior portion indicates a region having a depth | The present invention relates to a transparent sealing member. A quartz glass transparent sealing member is used in an optical component having at least one optical element, and a mounting board on which the optical element is mounted, and constitutes, with the mounting board, a package that houses the optical element. The concentration of aluminum in a surface portion is higher than the concentration of aluminum in an inner portion.1. A transparent sealing member made of quartz glass, the transparent sealing member being used in an optical component having at least one optical element and a mounting substrate on which the optical element is mounted, and constituting, together with the mounting substrate, a package in which the optical element is accommodated;
wherein an aluminum concentration of a surface portion of the transparent sealing member is higher than an aluminum concentration of an interior portion thereof. 2. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein assuming that the aluminum concentration of the surface portion is represented by A (ppm), and the aluminum concentration of the interior portion is represented by B (ppm), then 10≤A/B≤200. 3. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein assuming that the aluminum concentration of the surface portion is represented by A (ppm), and the aluminum concentration of the interior portion is represented by B (ppm), then 15≤A/B≤60. 4. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein the aluminum concentration of the surface portion is 500 to 2000 ppm, and the aluminum concentration of the interior portion is 10 to 100 ppm. 5. The transparent sealing member according to claim 1, wherein:
the surface portion indicates a region having a depth of 0.05 to 0.20 μm from a surface; and the interior portion indicates a region having a depth | 2,800 |
341,398 | 16,801,695 | 2,874 | A receiver of a cooling unit includes a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall. The receiver further includes an inlet provided in the cylindrical body, an outlet provided in the cylindrical body, a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body, and a heater positioned in the heater well to selectively heat a heat transfer fluid contained within the interior chamber of the cylindrical body. The heater well can be configured to extend from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with an axis of the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body or extend horizontally adjacent the bottom wall of the cylindrical body. | 1. A receiver of a cooling unit, the receiver comprising:
a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall; an inlet provided in the cylindrical body; an outlet provided in the cylindrical body; a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body; and a heater positioned in the heater well to selectively heat a heat transfer fluid contained within the interior chamber of the cylindrical body. 2. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the heater well extends from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with an axis of the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body. 3. The receiver of claim 2, wherein the heater is positioned at a bottom of the heater well. 4. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the heater extends horizontally adjacent the bottom wall of the cylindrical body. 5. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the heater is a polymer positive temperature coefficient heating element. 6. The receiver of claim 1, further comprising a heater wire connected to the heater and configured to power the heater. 7. The receiver of claim 7, wherein the heater wire is connected to a controller configured to control the operation of the heater. 8. The receiver of claim 1, further comprising a strain relief plug configured to seal the heater well. 9. The receiver of claim 8, wherein the inlet is provided in the top wall and the outlet is provided in the top wall. 10. A method of selectively heating heat transfer fluid in a receiver of a cooling unit, the method comprising:
providing a receiver including a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall, an inlet provided in the cylindrical body, an outlet provided in the cylindrical body, and a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body; positioning a heater in the heater well; and selectively powering the heater to heat a heat transfer fluid contained in the receiver. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater well extends from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the heater is positioned at a bottom of the heater well. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater extends horizontally adjacent the bottom wall of the cylindrical body. 14. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater is a polymer positive temperature coefficient heating element. 15. The method of claim 10, further comprising connecting the heater to a heater wire to provide power the heater. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising connecting the heater wire to a controller configured to control the operation of the heater. 17. The method of claim 10, further comprising sealing the heater well with a strain relief plug configured to seal the heater well. 18. The receiver of claim 17, wherein the inlet is provided in the top wall and the outlet is provided in the top wall. 19. A cooling unit comprising:
a housing; a compressor supported by the housing; a condenser supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the compressor; and a receiver supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the compressor and the condenser, the receiver including
a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall,
an inlet provided in the cylindrical body,
an outlet provided in the cylindrical body,
a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body,
a heater positioned in the heater well,
a heater wire connected to the heater and configured to power the heater, the heater wire being connected to a controller configured to control the operation of the heater to selectively heat a heat transfer fluid contained within the interior chamber of the cylindrical body, and
a strain relief plug configured to seal the heater well. 20. The cooling unit of claim 19, wherein the heater well extends from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with an axis of the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body, the heater being positioned at a bottom of the heater well, the heater being a polymer positive temperature coefficient heating element. | A receiver of a cooling unit includes a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall. The receiver further includes an inlet provided in the cylindrical body, an outlet provided in the cylindrical body, a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body, and a heater positioned in the heater well to selectively heat a heat transfer fluid contained within the interior chamber of the cylindrical body. The heater well can be configured to extend from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with an axis of the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body or extend horizontally adjacent the bottom wall of the cylindrical body.1. A receiver of a cooling unit, the receiver comprising:
a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall; an inlet provided in the cylindrical body; an outlet provided in the cylindrical body; a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body; and a heater positioned in the heater well to selectively heat a heat transfer fluid contained within the interior chamber of the cylindrical body. 2. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the heater well extends from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with an axis of the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body. 3. The receiver of claim 2, wherein the heater is positioned at a bottom of the heater well. 4. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the heater extends horizontally adjacent the bottom wall of the cylindrical body. 5. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the heater is a polymer positive temperature coefficient heating element. 6. The receiver of claim 1, further comprising a heater wire connected to the heater and configured to power the heater. 7. The receiver of claim 7, wherein the heater wire is connected to a controller configured to control the operation of the heater. 8. The receiver of claim 1, further comprising a strain relief plug configured to seal the heater well. 9. The receiver of claim 8, wherein the inlet is provided in the top wall and the outlet is provided in the top wall. 10. A method of selectively heating heat transfer fluid in a receiver of a cooling unit, the method comprising:
providing a receiver including a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall, an inlet provided in the cylindrical body, an outlet provided in the cylindrical body, and a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body; positioning a heater in the heater well; and selectively powering the heater to heat a heat transfer fluid contained in the receiver. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater well extends from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the heater is positioned at a bottom of the heater well. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater extends horizontally adjacent the bottom wall of the cylindrical body. 14. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater is a polymer positive temperature coefficient heating element. 15. The method of claim 10, further comprising connecting the heater to a heater wire to provide power the heater. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising connecting the heater wire to a controller configured to control the operation of the heater. 17. The method of claim 10, further comprising sealing the heater well with a strain relief plug configured to seal the heater well. 18. The receiver of claim 17, wherein the inlet is provided in the top wall and the outlet is provided in the top wall. 19. A cooling unit comprising:
a housing; a compressor supported by the housing; a condenser supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the compressor; and a receiver supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the compressor and the condenser, the receiver including
a cylindrical body having a cylindrical wall that defines an interior chamber, a bottom wall formed with the cylindrical wall, and a top wall formed with the cylindrical wall,
an inlet provided in the cylindrical body,
an outlet provided in the cylindrical body,
a heater well disposed within the cylindrical body,
a heater positioned in the heater well,
a heater wire connected to the heater and configured to power the heater, the heater wire being connected to a controller configured to control the operation of the heater to selectively heat a heat transfer fluid contained within the interior chamber of the cylindrical body, and
a strain relief plug configured to seal the heater well. 20. The cooling unit of claim 19, wherein the heater well extends from the top wall to adjacent the bottom wall along an axis that is coaxial with an axis of the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body, the heater being positioned at a bottom of the heater well, the heater being a polymer positive temperature coefficient heating element. | 2,800 |
341,399 | 16,801,707 | 2,874 | An information display device (1G) attachable to a structure includes a display panel (23) and a surface member (11). The display panel (23) has a display surface and displays information on the display surface. The surface member (11) is disposed on the display surface side of the display panel (23) and is in a state where only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel (23) is visible through the surface member (11) when the display panel (23) is turned on. The surface member includes a first layer (71) disposed on a front side, and a second layer (72) that is disposed on the display panel (23) side with respect to the first layer (71) and adjusts light transmittance of the surface member (11). | 1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a display panel that has a display surface and displays information on the display surface; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel and through which only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible when the display panel is turned on, wherein the surface member includes a first layer disposed on a front side, and a second layer disposed on a display panel side with respect to the first layer and adjusting light transmittance of the surface member. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first layer is formed by printing, painting, or a film, and wherein the second layer is formed by printing, painting, vapor deposition, or a film. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein a light transmittance of the second layer is 40% to 60%. 4. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the second layer is formed by a half mirror having a light transmittance of 40% to 70%. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the second layer is an optical filter, and wherein the optical filter is configured to transmit only light from the display panel and suppress transmission of external light. 6. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first layer and the second layer are configured to have a total light transmittance of 8% to 15%. 7. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a screen luminance of 200 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or less after transmission through the surface member. 8. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a luminance of the display surface adjusted to 800 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or more. 9. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the surface member includes a plate-like member, wherein the first layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a front side of the plate-like member, and wherein the second layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a back side of the plate-like member. 10. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the surface member includes a transparent or translucent film member, wherein the first layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a front side of the film member, and wherein the second layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a back side of the film member. 11. The information display device of claim 10,
wherein the surface member includes a light-transmitting plate disposed on a back side of the second layer. 12. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the second layer is formed by translucent solid printing. 13. The information display device of claim 12,
wherein the printing is performed by painting in black with a light transmittance of 40% to 60%. | An information display device (1G) attachable to a structure includes a display panel (23) and a surface member (11). The display panel (23) has a display surface and displays information on the display surface. The surface member (11) is disposed on the display surface side of the display panel (23) and is in a state where only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel (23) is visible through the surface member (11) when the display panel (23) is turned on. The surface member includes a first layer (71) disposed on a front side, and a second layer (72) that is disposed on the display panel (23) side with respect to the first layer (71) and adjusts light transmittance of the surface member (11).1. An information display device attachable to a structure, comprising:
a display panel that has a display surface and displays information on the display surface; and a surface member that is disposed on a display surface side of the display panel and through which only the information displayed on the display surface of the display panel becomes visible when the display panel is turned on, wherein the surface member includes a first layer disposed on a front side, and a second layer disposed on a display panel side with respect to the first layer and adjusting light transmittance of the surface member. 2. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first layer is formed by printing, painting, or a film, and wherein the second layer is formed by printing, painting, vapor deposition, or a film. 3. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein a light transmittance of the second layer is 40% to 60%. 4. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the second layer is formed by a half mirror having a light transmittance of 40% to 70%. 5. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the second layer is an optical filter, and wherein the optical filter is configured to transmit only light from the display panel and suppress transmission of external light. 6. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the first layer and the second layer are configured to have a total light transmittance of 8% to 15%. 7. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a screen luminance of 200 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or less after transmission through the surface member. 8. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the display panel has a luminance of the display surface adjusted to 800 cd/m{circumflex over ( )}2 or more. 9. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the surface member includes a plate-like member, wherein the first layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a front side of the plate-like member, and wherein the second layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a back side of the plate-like member. 10. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the surface member includes a transparent or translucent film member, wherein the first layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a front side of the film member, and wherein the second layer is disposed to be in close contact with a part or the entirety of a back side of the film member. 11. The information display device of claim 10,
wherein the surface member includes a light-transmitting plate disposed on a back side of the second layer. 12. The information display device of claim 1,
wherein the second layer is formed by translucent solid printing. 13. The information display device of claim 12,
wherein the printing is performed by painting in black with a light transmittance of 40% to 60%. | 2,800 |
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