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Some remote sensor devices are capable of communicating a signal to a primary device indicating when the remote device is low on power. Upon receiving such a signal, the primary device may warn its user that the remote device is low on power, and thus enable the user to recharge or replace the battery of the remote device before the remote device actually runs out of power. One example of such a system is a computer that employs wireless user input (UI) devices, such as a wireless mouse or keyboard. When such UI devices are low on power, a signal is communicated to the computer's processor indicating the low power condition, and the computer then displays a message to the user warning of the same. If the user subsequently fails to replace or recharge the battery promptly, the remote device continues to operate normally until it has completely run out of power. At such time, the remote device becomes incapable not only of performing its intended function but also of informing the primary device of the reason it has become inoperable.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is related to communicating with, remote monitoring, diagnosis and control of machines using multiple communication formats. The invention is further related to the ability to upgrade and change the communication format which is to be utilized. The invention is still further related to a control/diagnostic system which has the ability to communicate with different machines such as copiers, printers, facsimile machines and digital cameras using different communication protocols.
2. Discussion of the Background
The communication between a remote diagnostic station and a machine such as a business office device which includes copiers, printers, facsimile machines and combinations thereof is known and disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,412,779 issued to Motoyama and entitled xe2x80x9cMETHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING AND COMMUNICATING WITH BUSINESS OFFICE DEVICESxe2x80x9d, which is incorporated herein by reference. However, conventional diagnostic systems do not use varying communication protocols.
In order to have communication with, control of, or diagnostics of machines using different communication protocols, it is possible to have a dedicated control and monitoring system for each model. This would assure an ability to properly communicate using a different diagnostic computer for each type of machine. However, this could be expensive, an inefficient use of resources, and not allow or encourage a rapid development or improvement of communication protocols.
Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a method and system for communicating with machines which has the capability to use varying communication protocols. It is a further object of the invention to analyze a received communication in order to determine which communication protocol is being used.
It is yet another object of this invention to provide a control/diagnostic system which contains a data base of different communication protocols which can be used to communicate with varying machines such as a facsimile machine, a copier, a printer, a digital copier/printer, a digital camera, or other type of machine.
These and other objects are accomplished by a novel method and system for communicating with machines using multiple communication formats. The control/diagnostic system includes a data base of different communication protocols and formats. The communication protocol is also stored in the machine which is to be monitored or diagnosed.
The control/diagnostic system initially receives a communication from the machine to be controlled or monitored. This initial communication is examined to determine if it begins with a protocol identifier. If the communication does begin with a protocol identifier, a protocol identifier data base is searched to determine if there is an entry corresponding to the protocol identifier. An option of the invention is to determine if a version number of the protocol identifier is stored in the data base.
If there is an entry in the protocol identifier data base corresponding to the protocol identifier contained within the initial communication, the corresponding record of the protocol identifier data base is read in order to determine the format of the header utilized by the communication. The header, also referred to as a device ID because it contains information of the device which transmitted the communication, is then parsed in accordance with the format of the header which is contained in the protocol identifier data base in order to determine various information included in the header such as the category of the device, the model ID, the serial number, the version of the protocol, and the location of the machine. Then an input format data base is searched for a record matching the device defined in the header. If a record is found which matches the information of the header of the communication, then the format information is read from the input format data base in order to be able to properly parse the formatted data which follows the protocol ID and device ID (header) of the transmission from the machine.
If it is determined that the communication from the remote device does not begin with a protocol identifier, a communication protocol data base is searched to determine if the received communication has a header which follows a predefined format. This checking can be done beginning with the format corresponding to the highest number of installed devices. The fields of the received communication which are checked for a match are defined to be critical fields, meaning it is critical for the fields to match in order for the received communication to be identified as following one of the predefined communication protocols.
The communications which begin without a protocol identifier are either in a fixed format, meaning a format which does not change, or a format which is to be identified utilizing a header identification. The method which is to be used is defined in the communication protocol data base.
If the header identification method is to be utilized, the device ID (header) of the received communication is read to obtain the format identification. Once this format identification is obtained, the corresponding data format is looked up in the appropriate location. Alternatively, if the method of identifying the protocol is a fixed format, the format or location information of the format to be used is looked up in the communication protocol data base. In a first embodiment, the format is stored directly in the communication protocol data base. As an alternative, the communication protocol data base stores a file name or location at which the format information can be found. As a further alternative, the format information can be stored in a data base containing the various fixed formats and this data base can be examined to determined the appropriate format.
One the communication protocol or format which is to be utilized has been determined, the incoming communication is parsed according to the format which has been determined. Further, outgoing communications from the diagnostic/control system are formatted to utilize the determined protocol or communication format.
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The present invention is directed toward gas chromatographs and, more particularly, toward field-mountable gas chromatographs.
Chromatography is the separation of a mixture of compounds (solutes) into separate components. This separation permits the composition of all or part of the mixture to be determined. In gas chromatography, a gas chromatograph (commonly called a “GC”) is utilized to separate and determine the quantities of components of a gas mixture. A gas chromatograph performs these functions by taking a sample of the gas mixture to be analyzed and injecting it into a carrier gas stream, such as helium or hydrogen, which then carries the gas sample through one or more tubes (referred to as columns) that are packed with a very fine particulate material. Each of the particles of this material are coated with a film from liquid that controls the rate at which the different components of the gas sample are absorbed and de-absorbed by the particulate material. This rate of absorption and de-absorption also varies relative to each of the different components. Because of this differing rate of absorption and de-absorption, certain gas molecules related to one type or component of gas will exit the column more quickly than some of the other components will. This process of separation of components permits a detector located at the end of the column to quantify the amount of a particular component that is present in the mixture.
Conventional field-mountable gas chromatographs are fairly large and complex devices. The size and complexity of conventional field-mountable gas chromatographs make them difficult to install, operate and service. In addition, a typical field-mountable gas chromatograph does not have an integrated display that permits an operator to view the operation of the gas chromatograph. If a conventional field-mountable gas chromatograph is provided with a display, the display is typically mounted in a housing separate from the housing for the columns and other components of the gas chromatograph.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,004,514 to Hikosa, et al. discloses a field-mountable gas chromatograph having an integrated display. The gas chromatograph of the Hikosa et al. patent, however, is a large, complex system having multiple housings.
Based on the foregoing, there is a need in the art for a more compact and user-friendly field-mountable gas chromatograph having a display. The present invention is directed to such a field-mountable gas chromatograph.
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The present invention relates to the field of glass spacers, such as those applied in the area of prefabricated insulative multiple glazed windows and the like.
A critical requirement in modern building construction is energy conservation. A particular problem in view of the extensive use of glass in modern architecture is a loss of heat from the building through glass surfaces. One solution has been the increased use of insulating glass units, normally comprising at least two glass panes separated by a sealed dry air space. Sealed insulating glass units usually require some means precisely separating the two glass panels.
This leads to the conduction of heat from the interior glass plate to the exterior glass plate from where it is dissipated into the exterior environment. Further, there can result a differential dimensional change between the glass and the spacer, causing stress to develop on the glass and/or the seal which can result in damage to and the failure of the sealed glass unit.
There are several problems to be overcome in producing insulative multiple glazed windows wherein the panes are separated to form an insulative air space.
To provide the best insulative characteristics, the pane edges must be completely sealed to prevent communication between the air trapped between the glass panes, and the air in the environments on either side of the window (and/or in neighboring trapped air spaces in the case of windows having more than two glass panes). This has been traditionally done using a sealant material, such as a curable sealant adhesive, along the outside edges of the glass panes.
In order to best be able to produce a prefabricated multi-glazed window, it is necessary that the spacer be of substantially uniform thickness to maintain neighboring glass panes at correspondingly uniform distance from one another. This assures consistent sizing so that the balance of the window assembly can be predictably attached for installation.
Although the window spacer must restrict air flow, it must also prevent moisture from entering the trapped air space. If allowed in, moisture can condense inside the trapped air space, adversely affecting the translucence and appearance of the window. One common method of mitigating the effects of moisture has been to provide the spacer member with a desiccant material, such as silica gel, usually by placing the desiccant within a hollow spacer member, and providing small holes in the inside face of the spacer member to allow the desiccant to communicate with the trapped air space. While such an arrangement can reduce the effect of moisture in the trapped air space, the desiccants and the required machining of the spacer increase the cost of producing the window. Also, the amount of such desiccants in each window is limited by space constraints, and the desiccant cannot be regenerated in situ. Accordingly, desiccants have a limited capacity, and generally are normally exhausted after a few years of normal use, depending upon the ambient conditions.
One of the most serious and challenging problems in the production of window spacers is lack of insulative character in the spacer member itself. Typical spacers comprise hollow metal channels. Although they exclude moisture well, metals have high heat conductivity giving rise to the problem of low insulative character described above. In recent years, the insulative quality of window glass has increased to such an extent that the spacer member increasingly represents the weakest (i.e. most heat transmissive) portion of a multi-glazed window. The industry now recognizes that the spacer now accounts for a substantial portion of the total heat loss through an assembled multi-glazed window.
Metal spacers generally have expansion coefficients which differ from the glass and the sealant material. Also, because the metal/glass interface is difficult to seal, moisture can enter the trapped air space through this avenue.
There have been some attempts to use spacers made of polyvinylchloride rather than metal. This has, however been unsuccessful because the sealants which have been developed to construct reliable units bond well to glass and metal spacers, but not to polyvinylchloride spacers. This leads to structural weaknesses in units constructed with PVC spacers. Furthermore, the differential dimensional change that occurs between glass and PVC spacers over a certain range of temperature is much higher than with a metal spacer. In addition, most plastics have been found unacceptable for use between glass panes because they give off volatile materials, e.g. plasticizers, which can cloud or fog the interior glass surface.
The prior art shows some examples of the use of plastic over core material, but the details of construction and environment differ from the present invention. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,694,965 shows a wooden mullion element covered with a plastic extrusion, but this is not a spacer for double insulated glass. U.S. Pat. No. 3,070,854 shows a plastic channel member provided to cover a wooden separator between a pair of glass panes and U.S. Pat. No. 2,239,517 shows a metal separator provided with a plastic coating used in window construction.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,918,231 shows an extruded plastic element for fitting over a metallic frame element. U.S. Pat. No. 3,261,139 discloses a multiple glazed unit having a pair of resilient tape elements keyed to groves in the separator. U.S. Pat. No. 3,012,642 relates to window structures using very complex pane-holding elements. Canadian Patent No. 953,159 shows a double plated panel with a tubular spacer held in place by a non-hardening flow adhesive. German Offenlegungsschrift No. 1 434 283 also shows a spacer for double insulated glass.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,222,213 discloses an insulating spacer comprising an extruded or rolled-formed spacer together with a metal spacer together with a plastic insulating element which thermally insulates the metal spacer from the panes of glass while permitting conventional application of a sealant to provide reliable bonding. In one embodiment, the plastic insulator comprises an extruded plastic overlay which fits tightly over part of a conventional metal spacer. This patent discloses the incorporation of a metal spacer having portions for contacting in the sealant to provide a solid bond between the glass plate and the metal spacer. The spacer also incorporates a plastic insulator element to prevent any direct glass-to-metal spacer contact allowing only minimum contact with the glass plate to reduce heat conduction between the plates, while functioning as a spacer to keep the two glass plates at a measured distance during construction of a sealed window unit. However, the spacer taught by this patent is held mechanically affixed by contact pressure and/or friction. This patent teaches that this friction should not be so great that longitudinal shrinkage and expansion cannot occur with change in temperature due to different coefficients of expansion of the metal and plastic. This patent also teaches that some type of adhesive, such as EVA adhesive, could be used to insure permanent contact between the polymer and metal elements. However, this alternative is not preferred since it introduces the possibility of glass fogging, even when only small quantities of adhesive are used.
The '233 patent also teaches that many common extrudable plastics, such as PVC are not suitable for application in the disclosed spacer because they cause fogging of the glass.
Most recently, U.S. Pat. No. 5,088,258 disclosed an insulating spacer assembly comprising an extruded or rolled-formed hollow metal spacer together with thermal breaks and primary sealant. The spacer and thermal brakes may be coextruded together. However, this patent fails to teach the formation of a metal-polymer composite through the use of a heat-activated adhesive, as is done in the present invention.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,222,213 and 5,088,258 are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention represents an improvement over the prior art in that it allows for the use of a metal-polymer composite as a glass spacer while eliminating both concerns over differential expansion between the metal component and the polymer component, and the potential for fogging of the glass brought about by volatiles where adhesives are used.
The present invention also eliminates a concern over the use of extrudable polymers which normally would be unsuitable because they can give off volatiles, such as plasticizers.
The present invention therefore provides a glass spacer having precise and predictable dimensional characteristics, and excellent thermal insulative qualities. The present invention also eliminates concerns over fogging caused by volatiles in the polymer or the adhesive used to bond the polymer to the metal spacer substrate. The glass spacer of the present invention also provides an excellent barrier against air and moisture to prevent fogging or accelerated degradation of the spacer seal.
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Technical Field
The present application relates generally to the field of manufacturing with novel degradable metallic materials, such as degradable alloys of aluminum, and methods of making products of degradable alloys useful in oilfield exploration, production, and testing.
Background Art
To retrieve hydrocarbons from subterranean reservoirs, wells of a few inches wide and up to several miles long are drilled, tested to measure reservoir properties, and completed with a variety of tools. In drilling, testing, and completing a well, a great variety of tools are deployed down the wellbore (downhole) for a multitude of critical applications. Many situations arise where degradable materials (e.g. materials with an ability to decompose over time) may be technically and economically desirable; for instance an element (i.e., a tool or the part of a tool) that may be needed only temporarily and would require considerable manpower for its retrieval after becoming no longer useful may be conveniently made of a degradable material. If such element is designed (formulated) to degrade within a variety of wellbore conditions after it has served its functions, time and money may be saved. A chief pre-requirement to the industrial use and oilfield use of degradable materials is their manufacturability. In contrast to plastic and polymeric materials, many among which may degrade in a wellbore environment (e.g. polylactic acid in water), metallic materials (e.g., alloys) have typically much greater mechanical strengths, and mechanical strength is necessary to produce oilfield elements that may withstand the high pressure and temperatures existing downhole.
Various degradable metallic materials have been recently disclosed by the same inventors (Marya et al.). For example, U.S. 2007/0181224 by Marya et al. discloses compositions (i.e., materials of all sort: metals, alloys, composites) comprising one or more reactive metals in a major proportion and one or more alloying products in a minor proportion. The compositions are characterized as being of high-strength and being controllably reactive and degradable under defined conditions. The compositions may contain reactive metals selected from products in columns I and II of the Periodic Table and alloying products, such as gallium (Ga), indium (In), zinc (Zn), bismuth (Bi), and aluminum (Al). Oilfield products made from these compositions may be used to temporarily separate fluids from a multitude of zones. Upon completion of their intended functions, the oilfield products may either be fully degraded, or may be forced to fall or on the contrary float to a new position without obstructing operations.
Similarly, U.S. 2008/0105438 discloses the use of high-strength, controllably reactive, and degradable materials to specifically produce oilfield whipstocks and deflectors.
U.S. 2008/0149345 discloses degradable materials, characterized as being smart, for use in a large number of downhole elements. These elements may be activated when the smart degradable materials are degraded in a downhole environment. The smart degradable materials may include alloys of calcium, magnesium, or aluminum, or composites of these materials in combination with non-metallic materials such as plastics, elastomers, and ceramics. The degradation of the smart degradable materials in fluids such as water may result in at least one response that, in turn, triggers other responses, e.g., opening or closing a device, or sensing the presence of particular water-based fluids (e.g. formation water).
Because degradable metallic materials (namely alloys) are useful for a variety of oilfield operations, methods of manufacturing oilfield products made of these degradable materials are highly desirable.
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Artificial valves for implantation into mammal blood vessels are used in order to replace existing valves in the circulatory system of a mammal. When implanted in the circulatory system of a mammal, such valves are used to regulate the flow of blood in the mammal by means of closing or opening the blood flow in the vessel, which is accomplished by letting one or more moving parts in the valve assume a closed position or to move to assume an open position.
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In electric arc welding, a welding gun is a flexible, elongated element having a rear end connected to a wire feeder and a front end for a welding torch. The gun includes an elongated flexible conduit directing current and shielding gas from the wire feeder to the welding torch. Such a mechanism is employed for hand held welding and for robotic controlled welding in the trade.
The torch includes a contact tip through which the welding wire is directed from the wire feeder through the flexible tube to the welding operation. This tip is supported in a conductive cylindrical assembly receiving power from the wire feeder.
Shielding gas is directed from a diffuser in. the cylindrical assembly into a chamber defined by an outer nozzle through the nozzle into the area around the contact tip so the shielding gas forms a protective layer between the molten metal of the welding operation and atmosphere. All of these requirements of a torch require complex machined components at the end of the torch which substantially increases the cost and adversely affects the operability of the torch during the welding operation. Furthermore, the welding operation itself creates spatter, especially during short circuit conditions so the forward end of the torch including the contact tip and diffuser is subject to substantial deterioration over time caused by spatter together with the tremendous arc temperature involved in the welding operation.
Shielding gas is directed into the welding operation from diffuser orifices circumferentially spaced around the torch and directed ultimately to the contact tip at the welding operation. Consequently, torches have diffuser orifices for shielding gas; however, these orifices must be oriented to prevent unwanted cavitation. It has been found that these orifices should be as close as possible to the welding operation. Such closeness drastically increases the tendency for spatter to affect the laminar flow of shielding gas from the diffuser orifices.
Robotic assemblies are commonly used with welding guns. Previously, when robotic gun assemblies were dismantled, the down time was extensive because there was no quick and easy means to precisely reassemble the robotic gun. A previous example of a keyed alignment system for a welding torch used with a robotic gun assembly is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,451,117. A mounting arm which provides for various methods of changing position of the welding gun with respect to the robotic arm and the position of the gun with respect to its housing as well as providing easy disassembly of the gun from the robotic arm is described in co-pending application Ser. No. 11/178,819, filed on Jul. 11, 2005. Hex end structures for the torch end and welding wire feeder and are shown and described in co-pending application Ser. No. 11/268,085, filed on Nov. 7, 2005.
Furthermore, a welding gun which allows for various positions of the forward end and rear end of the gun is needed without complete disassembly of the gun. Accordingly, it is considered desirable to provide a welding gun which allows various positions of the welding gun with respect to the robotic assembly and with respect to the handle without completely disassembling either the gun or the robotic arm assembly. Also, providing a handle which allows for ease in assembly and disassembly of the welding gun as well as providing access to the internal components of the gun at either the welding torch end or wire feeder end is also desired.
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This invention relates to hand crimping tools.
Such tools are used to attach terminals and connectors of a wide variety of sizes and shapes to electrical cables. The purpose of the tool is to ensure that the connector or terminal, is in proper electrical contact with the conductive element of the electrical cable.
Hand crimping tools and other crimping tools usually comprise a fixed and a moveable anvil or mandrel, on which the fixed and moveable parts of a crimping die can be mounted. The crimping dies are interchangeable in the tool so that a range of terminals and connectors of different sizes and shapes can be crimped using the same crimping tool.
In order to ensure that sufficient load is applied to the terminal or connector through the crimping die, it is important to control the movement of the moveable mandrel so that the moveable mandrel moves through sufficient distance to apply the necessary load, before the moveable mandrel can be released. Usually this movement is controlled by a ratchet and pawl mechanism, and the mechanism is only released by applying a load to the handle of the tool which is applying the movement to the moveable mandrel.
It has been found that applying the necessary load to the tool in order to disengage the pawl from the ratchet creates considerable stress on components of the tool which in turn reduces the force required to release the pawl from the ratchet during the crimping operation.
Usually, the lever which is applying the load to the moveable mandrel is connected to the moveable mandrel by one or more links, and the moveable mandrel is located in a guide, so that it can only move in a straight line. The links are connected to one another and to the lever and moveable mandrel by pivot pins, and it has been found that due to the loads applied during the crimping cycle and during the ratchet release movement, considerable wear occurs between the pins and links, creating a slackness in the operating mechanism. After a while, because of the slackness which has accumulated, it becomes progressively more difficult to apply the correct loads to the connectors and terminals, resulting in terminals and connectors not being crimped to the necessary standards.
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Semiconductor dies include collections of transistors and other components in a wafer. Commonly, these wafers are semiconductor materials, and, in particular, silicon. The semiconductor wafers are singulated or diced to form semiconductor dies.
Semiconductor wafers may be stacked during manufacturing of products such as stacked ICs. Wafer-to-wafer bonding involves stacking the semiconductor wafers before being singulated into semiconductor dies. However, wafer-to-wafer bonding requires wafers and dies of equal size. Stacked ICs often include dies of different type or manufacturing process. For example, a stacked IC may have a memory device stacked on a processor. In this case, the memory device may not occupy as much die area as the processor.
When the dies do not align for wafer-to-wafer stacking, alternate semiconductor manufacturing techniques are employed. These less efficient techniques includes die-to-die bonding, die-to-substrate bonding, and die-to-wafer bonding. In die-to-substrate bonding, dies are placed on a substrate from two wafers, bonded and packaged to form a stacked die. In die-to-die bonding, two dies are individually stacked, bonded and packaged to form a stacked die. In die-to-wafer bonding, dies are individually placed on a wafer, bonded and packaged. All of these processes have low throughput compared with wafer-to-wafer processes.
Thus, there is a need for efficient semiconductor manufacturing of dissimilar die and/or wafer sizes.
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to programmable logic devices and, more particularly, to a system and method for logging use of intellectual property by a user of programmable circuits, systems or devices, and for notifying a vendor of the programmable logic of such use. The system advantageously logs the number of programmable units being programmed. The information logged may be used for multiple purposes, one of which is to track royalty obligations due to the intellectual property owner.
2. Description of the Related Art
The following descriptions and examples are not admitted to be prior art by virtue of their inclusion within this section.
Programmable logic devices (PLDs) are commonly used to implement a vast array of logic networks. PLDs are general-purpose digital components which are manufactured in a non-programmed state and are later programmed to implement a desired logical function. The desired function can be any configuration that is used to carry out a subsystem operation preferred by a user.
There are numerous types of PLDs depending on the configuration and how the PLDs can be programmed. Most PLDs can be categorized as circuit logic that can either retain its programmed state or will lose its programmed state after power is removed. A PLD can include an array of programmable cells that are either volatile or non-volatile. Examples of different types of PLDs include programmable read-only memories (PROMs), field programmable logic arrays (FPLAs), programmable array logic devices (PALs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs).
A PLD and all the aforementioned derivatives (FPGAs, FPLAs, etc.) are one example of a device that can be programmed by a user for a specific application. However, the intended purpose of the present device is not to be limited to a PLD or its derivatives. Nor should the intended purpose be limited to a single chip or device on a single packaged product. Instead, any circuit, subsystem, or multiple circuits or subsystems that can be programmed by a user for a specific purpose is defined as a programmable device.
If a programmable device implements an array of cells, the cells can be arranged as switches that are programmed after the particular logic function of the programmable device has been prepared and checked using a computer-aided design package appropriate for the programmable subsystem family being used. As such, the programmable device can involve a logic block containing an array of programmable switches which either retain their programmed state (non-volatile) or lose their programmed state (volatile) if power is removed. Regardless of whether the array can be programmed as a volatile or non-volatile array, in most instances, the array is programmed at the user's site.
A user having a defined design in mind will generally purchase an unprogrammed programmable device from a manufacturer. In instances where the programmable device is a PLD, the user can purchase the programmable device from Cypress Semiconductor. The programmable device may be stockpiled by the user and, when a design is needed, the programmable device can be programmed in the field using, for example, a program tool containing program code. The program tool can be a computer, or a portion of a computer, which stores a program that selectively activates or deactivates switches within the array of switches of the programmable device. The program, thereby, essentially contains the overall design template needed to configure the programmable device to a user-specified design. There are numerous types of program tools and programs/files resident on such tools, all of which are contained within a host computer, typically at the user or customer site. Of course, the programmable device can be a portion of a subsystem that can be programmed to implement a particular application, such as a bus bridge, media access controller (MAC), or virtually any system that can be configured, or periodically upgraded to new applications by a user.
One exemplary application is when a designer wishes to test a design. In these instances, a designer might purchase a programmable device and configure the device at the user site. The designer will receive the programmable device from the programmable device vendor and will program the programmable device at the site using a program the designer received either directly or indirectly from a company that owns the design. For example, a designer may wish to implement a counter. Instead of designing a counter from scratch, the designer will simply purchase a programmable device and program the programmable device in accordance with program code he/she obtains from the company that owns the counter design to be configured on that programmable device.
The owner of the design can therefore send a file of that design to a user who then executes that file within the user's host in order to program the programmable device. The entity which owns the design charges a licensing fee or royalty fee to the user who acquires the program. The design owner will not know how many programmable devices will be programmed and, therefore, typically charges a flat royalty fee for that design regardless of the number of programmable devices being programmed. This places a substantial burden on a designer who wishes only to test his or her design. In other words, a user may only wish to program one or two programmable devices to determine the viability of a design specification. Nonetheless, the owner of the design will require a fairly large royalty payment in order for the user to have access to the program.
Most users of programmable devices expect a low initial investment in the development of their designs, yet are willing to pay royalty fees only if those fees can be distributed among the programmable devices being programmed. A user may not choose to pay, for example, a $10,000 royalty fee if he/she only wishes to program one programmable device. However, if 10,000 programmable devices are to be programmed, the user is more likely to accept a $1 royalty fee per each programmed programmable device. In addition to benefits to the user, an intellectual property (IP) vendor also benefits. The IP contained in the IP being programmed into the programmable device is more likely to be used on a much larger quantity of products if the royalty obligations due to the IP vendor can be spread among each of those devices. The IP vendor design will therefore be more widespread in its use.
As used herein, intellectual property (IP) refers to ideas embodied into designs submitted by an owner of such ideas to a programmable device user. The ideas include anything that can be covered by patents, copyrights or trademarks, and/or anything that is protected by the IP vendor, and offered for value to a user. In return for submitting software containing a design bearing the IP of a vendor, the IP vendor will expect to receive royalty fees either directly or indirectly from the user. Thus, if a user wishes to update his or her MAC, the user can seek software that will reconfigure the MAC and, in return will have a royalty obligation to the IP vendor who sends the software necessary to reconfigure the user's MAC.
It is desirable to implement a system and methodology that minimizes the owner of the design (i.e., the IP vendor) from having to charge a high one-time royalty fee to a customer. The desired system and method beneficially tracks royalty fees among numerous programmed programmable devices so that the overall royalty can be disseminated amongst the programmed programmable devices. This will enhance the use of programmable devices in testing potential designs without suffering exorbitant one-time royalty fees.
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention pertains to electronic memories and in particular to nonvolatile memory cells and cell organization suitable for operation with byte alterability of the nonvolatile information stored in the memory.
2. Prior Art
There is a long history of nonvolatile memory devices and more particularly electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) devices. All prior art commercial byte alterable EEPROMs have used N channel devices as the memory transistor. Such an N channel EEPROM cell 10 typical of current technology is shown in the top view of FIG. 1a and the cross section of FIG. 1b.
As shown in FIG. 1a there are two layers of polycrystalline silicon 13 and 14 formed on and insulated from silicon substrate 24. The cell includes select transistor 29 and memory transistor 28. The substrate under memory transistor 28 is doped P type except where locally doped N type to form source/drain regions 16 and 23. The first layer of polycrystalline deposited is called poly 1. The poly 1 feature 14 has no connections to other conductors and is therefore referred to as a floating gate. This portion of the poly 1 layer forms the gate of memory transistor 28. The second layer of polycrystalline silicon, called poly 2, is used to form a transistor 29, having polycrystalline silicon gate 12, that acts as a select transistor between contact 19 and memory transistor 28. Poly 2 layer is also used to form control gate 13 of memory transistor 28, which is capacitively coupled to floating gate 14.
N type region 15 is located under a thin tunnel oxide window 11. Region 15 is used during programming and erasing. (In this application, the IEEE standard 1005 will be followed consistently for nomenclature. Therefore, programming is defined as putting electrons onto the floating gate and erasing is defined as removing electrons from the floating gate.) There is also a buried diffusion 17 on the source side of the memory transistor 28. This is included merely so that the channel length is not alignment sensitive and could be omitted without loss of functionality. The buried diffusions are so called because they lie under the polycrystalline silicon layers. (In some designs they also lie under the field oxide.) Thick field oxide 18, which exists outside of the xe2x80x9cTxe2x80x9d shaped region of thin oxide bounded by the heavy lines in FIG. 1a, provides isolation between the transistors and the N type diffusions where desired. The regions under field oxide 15 may have enhanced P type doping relative to the regions under the gates in order to raise the threshold voltages of the parasitic field transistors.
Typical operation will have floating gate 14 charged positively with respect to ground when erased and charged negatively with respect to ground when programmed. To read memory transistor 28, control gate 13 is grounded and gate 12 of select transistor 29 is biased positively to provide a low resistance path from its drain contact 19 to drain 15 of memory transistor 28. Drain contact 19 provides connection to metal bit line 25 as is seen in the cross section view of FIG. 1b (the metal is omitted from the top view of FIG. 1a in the interests of clarity). Bit line 25 is biased at a modest positive voltage (e.g. 2 V) and the common source line 16 is biased at ground. If floating gate 14 is erased, current can flow from bit line 25 to source region 16. If floating gate 14 is programmed, memory transistor 28 is in a nonconducting state and no current flows. The presence or absence of current flow is sensed to determine the state stored by memory transistor 14.
The oxide in tunnel window 11 is typically about 10 nm thick. To program memory cell 28, floating gate 14 must be capacitively coupled to a sufficiently positive potential with respect to drain 15 that a field of about 10 MV/cm appears across tunnel oxide 11. This is accomplished by biasing poly 2 control gate 13 at about 20 V while biasing select gate 12 at a sufficiently high potential that select transistor 29 is conducting with bit line 25 at ground potential. Under these conditions, drain region 15 provides a source of electrons on the cathode side of tunnel oxide 11. With 10 MV/cm appearing across tunnel oxide 11, Fowler-Nordheim tunneling occurs and charges floating gate 14 negatively.
To erase memory transistor 28, the bias across tunnel oxide 11 must be reversed. This is accomplished by applying a high bias to drain 15 of memory transistor 28 while poly 2 control gate 13 is biased at ground in order to keep control gate 13 capacitively coupled to a low voltage. The high voltage is applied to drain 15 of memory transistor 28 by applying the desired voltage to bit line 25 while gate 12 of select transistor 29 is biased at a potential that is higher than the desired voltage by at least the threshold voltage of select transistor 29.
The operation of this cell in an array can be understood with reference to FIGS. 2a and 2b, which shows a portion of a prior art memory array 38 including a single word line 31 and associated bit lines 32-0 through 32-7, thereby forming a portion of a memory capable of storing a single 8 bit word. (In this and subsequent schematic drawings, the transistor gate with a small notch directed at the channel region is used indicate a transistor in which one portion of the gate oxide has been thinned to enhance the tunneling current.) To write a desired data pattern into a word, all bits of the word are first programmed and then selected bits are erased to achieve the desired pattern. Selection of the word to be programmed is achieved with the combination of word line 31 and word line select transistor 37 in FIG. 2b. A high voltage, VPP+VTN, where VPP is a positive programming voltage (typically approximately 18 volts) and VTN is the threshold voltage of an N channel transistor (typically approximately 4 volts with 18 V of source bias), is applied to word line 31 to select the desired row of the memory array. VPP is applied to column 35 associated with the desired word. This voltage passes through word select transistor 37 to the control gates 34-0 through 34-7 of all of the transistors in the word to be programmed. During this program operation all bit lines are biased at VSS. After all of the floating gates in the selected word are programmed, VSS (ground) is applied to line 35 and VPP is applied to those bit lines 32-0 through 32-7 containing bits that are to be erased, while the bit lines containing bits that are not to be erased remain biased at VSS.
There is a convenient consequence of this particular sequence of writing operations. Because all transistors in the selected word are initially programmed, they are in a nonconducting state when their control gates are grounded by applying VSS to line 35. When VPP is applied to the selected bit lines, the floating gates of the selected transistors are erased into a conducting state and the common source line 35 is charged up. However, the voltage on the common source line is limited to Vfgxe2x88x92VTN, where Vfg is the floating gate potential and VTN is the threshold of the memory transistor when neutralized by extended exposure to ultraviolet light. This moderate voltage is too small to punch through the programmed transistors and so no current flows from the bit lines that are biased at VPP to those that are biased at VSS. It is this lack of direct current path that makes it possible to operate commercial EEPROMs from a single logic level power supply with all of the needed high voltages being generated on the chip by relatively small, low power charge pumps.
There are a couple of features of this prior art that limit its desirability for application in integrated circuit products in which only a small number of EEPROM bits are desired in a circuit that is primarily logic or a mixed signal product. The prior art cell depicted in FIGS. 1a and 1b has at least three additional masking steps that are not required for the fabrication of an MOS structure containing logic circuitry but not containing EEPROM cells: the second layer of polycrystalline silicon, the thin tunnel oxide window, and the buried N region under the polycrystalline silicon floating gate. These masking steps and the processes associated with them add cost to the manufacturing process, perhaps as much as 20% to the cost of manufacturing a CMOS wafer. This is a high price to pay for functionality that is only used in a small portion of the product when only a small number of EEPROM bits are required. To reduce this cost, there have been a number of single poly EEPROM cells developed. This reduces somewhat the cost of adding EEPROM functionality to a circuit, but is still more expensive than is really desirable because of the continuing need for the additional processing steps associated with forming the tunnel oxide window and the diffusions 15 and 17.
A second hindrance to incorporating EEPROM technology into existing CMOS processes is the relatively high voltages required for the write operation. An electric field of about 10 MV/cm across the tunnel oxide is required for a sufficiently large Fowler-Nordheim tunneling current to write to a cell in times measured in msec. In addition, not all of the voltage applied to the control gate is coupled to the floating gate. In practical cases, the capacitive coupling ratio between the control gate and the floating gate is in the range 0.6 to 0.8 (i.e. 60 to 80% of voltage applied to the control gate is coupled to the floating gate). This means that VPP greater than about 12 V is required between the control gate and the tunneling diffusion in the substrate. To achieve this a voltage which was earlier expressed as (VPP+VTN) must be applied to the row line. The VTN in this equation is not the usual threshold voltage measured with the body of the N channel transistor grounded; rather this voltage threshold is the voltage threshold with the body of the transistor at xe2x88x92VPP as a result of the voltage on its source. When VPPis approximately 12 V, the threshold voltage can easily be increased as a result of the body effect to about 3 V. This results in a voltage of at least about 15 V being applied to the word line. Many logic processes will not reliably support a voltage of this magnitude.
In accordance with the teachings of this invention, these limitations are alleviated by reducing the magnitude of the applied voltage required for writing and by simplifying the fabrication process, thereby reducing manufacturing costs. To accomplish these ends, P channel EEPROM cells have been developed. These cells are designed for integration into arrays that can be written with single polarity signals that can be developed from relatively small, low power charge pumps that can be integrated into the integrated circuit products. These cells reduce the additional masking steps that must be added to a CMOS logic process for EEPROM to only one additional step in some embodiments. Furthermore, the novel cells of this invention enable the array to function with a value of VPP that is about 2 V less than that required by an N channel EEPROM cell of the prior art, with similar writing speed and tunnel oxide thickness.
Among the advantages of this invention are that it has the potential for significantly decreasing the development time and cost because it makes less stringent demands on the high voltage capability of the process and that it can decrease the cost for processing a wafer by 3 to 5%.
The focus of this invention is developing P channel EEPROM cells that can be integrated into arrays and supported with on chip circuitry so that the array is suitable for inclusion into an integrated circuit that is to function from a single voltage power supply. For use in practical array it is necessary to have cells that can be set into states to represent an arbitrary pattern of ones and zeroes. In the conventional N channel EEPROM, this is accomplished by programming all of the bits within a word and then erasing selected bits to establish a defined pattern within the array. There are select transistors so that words that are not intended to be written are isolated from the high voltages used for programming and erasure.
This invention includes three methods for performing these functions in a P channel array. In a first method, the cells within a word are all programmed, i.e. electrons are injected onto the floating gates, and then selectively erased. Because a P channel MOSFET with a gate negatively charged is in the conducting mode, a transistor is provided between the floating gate and the source in all of the cells in order to allow isolation of the cells form the common source during the selective erase. If the cells are connected through a common source during the erase, current will flow from the drain of the cell or cells that are to be erased to the drain(s) of those cell(s) that are not to be erased. Such a current would load any practicable on chip charge pumps such that the voltage applied to the drains to be erased would be limited to a low enough value that erasure would not occur. Adding a source select transistor allows current flow through the floating gate transistor to the source to be inhibited during the erase mode, but enabled during the read mode to provide a sense current.
A second method of operation described in this invention functions by erasing all bits within a word and then selectively programming those that are to be in the programmed state. With this method all the cells in a word can share a common source line. The selective programming is accomplished by providing a select transistor to the capacitor that controls the potential on the floating gate. This select transistor provides for matrix addressing of the control capacitor on a bit by bit basis.
In an alternative embodiment, a tunneling window under the floating gate is not used, but rather the entire gate area of the memory transistor lies over a thin tunnel oxide region. This allows a shorter channel length, a simpler fabrication process, and therefore a lower cost device. This approach has the further advantage that the memory transistor provides more read current for a given floating gate potential.
In another embodiment of this invention, individual source select transistors in each cell are not required. In this embodiment, a separate source line is run through the array for each column so that a shared source select transistor is used to provide the necessary isolation for all of the memory transistors on a column. In this manner, a substantial decrease in array area is achieved. In another embodiment, the source and drain select transistors are omitted. The cell is programmed by biasing the control gate to a high voltage with the N well at ground and other nodes either floating or at ground. The selected cells are erased by biasing the bit lines of the selected cells at VPP while the biases applied to the other cells in the array are such that the voltage across the gate oxide is maintain at a low enough voltage that significant tunneling does not occur.
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1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to nail polish. More specifically, the invention relates to instantly dry film coatings of nail polish that one can apply to one's nails instead of getting a manicure or brushing on liquid nail polish.
2. Description of the Related Art
People have used nail polish to color or adorn their nails for hundreds of years. Conventionally, nail polish is applied in liquid form by a brush and then must dry. The drying process takes time, during which the nail polish wearer must be very careful of her nails so as not to smudge or ruin her polish job.
Commercially available nail polishes use predominantly ¼-second and ½-second nitrocellulose (approx. 300-800 centipoise as measured by a Brookfield viscometer operating at 60 rpm). The designation of “second” indicates how long a metal ball will take to fall to the bottom of a given-sized drum of the material; the longer the period of time, the greater the viscosity of the nitrocellulose. Adjustments to the viscosity are then made with small amounts (i.e., 1-5 w/w %) higher viscosity nitrocelluloses i.e., 40-60 second and 60-80 second. Such high viscosity nitrocelluloses have never been used at higher concentration than 1-5% because the resulting nail polish would be too thick to apply by brush. The composition of a typical nail polish (also called nail enamel) is approximately 25-32% solids and 68-73% solvents. Of the solids, on a weight/weight percentage, 6-12% is nitrocellulose (¼-second or ½-second), about 6-12% is resin and 6-10% is plasticizer. The remaining contents are typically as follows:
mica and color pigments 8-15%
ethyl acetate 20-30%
n-butyl acetate 20-30%
isopropyl alcohol 5-10%
miscellaneous 3-7%.
Because of the high solvent content, commercially available liquid nail polishes are flammable and must be shipped via ground or water unless indicated for special delivery and handling.
More recently, there have been developments in the field where dry or nearly dry film coatings of nail polish are available for application to a person's nails. Two patents that describe this type of appliqué are U.S. Pat. No. 4,903,840 to So and U.S. Pat. No. 5,415,903 to Hoffman et al.
The So patent, assigned to the instant assignee, teaches a basic method of making self-adhesive nail coatings of this nature. In the So patent, the nail coatings are made by using a mold having a pour hole and a slot or passage for a sheet of adhesively-backed paper to pass through or by. Conventional liquid nail enamel is poured onto the sheet of adhesively-backed paper as it is slowly drawn through the mold. A uniformly coated, adhesively backed nail coating sheet is thus created. The sheet is then dried for a predetermined time and at a predetermined temperature or until the sheet has the nail enamel coating in a semi-solid, yet not completely dried state. The strip is then preferably cut into sets of five fingernail coatings. The sheet is also preferably provided with a ribbon or tear strip which serves to facilitate the individual application of the nail coatings to the fingernails by easing removal of the coatings from the adhesive-backed paper. The sets of coatings, after partial drying, are encased in a substantially air-tight envelope until used.
The Hoffman patent teaches a similar dry nail coating that consists of a film-forming polymer layer containing at least one plasticizer (again, conventional nail enamel), a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer located thereon, and a carrier film or supporting foil which covers the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer and which can be removed and is preferably silicone-treated. The film-forming polymer layer is also covered on the other side (i.e., the top) with a completely removable protective layer which is resistant to the other constituents of the laminate and the materials used in the preparation of the laminate. The Hoffman patent adds little to the teachings of the So patent, other than the addition of the completely removable protective layer provided over the top of the enamel layer, which appears to be conventional in the art at any rate.
It would be desirable to be able to speed up the manufacture process of nail coating laminates. It would also be desirable to provide methods of creating nail coating laminates or appliqués of multiple colors, with patterns, with a metallic finish (heretofore unachievable in nail coating laminates), and the like.
It would also be desirable to achieve a “French manicure” effect, i.e., a white tipped appliqué with a pink, clear, or pearlescent main portion, that is easy to manufacture and then apply. It is additionally desirable to increase the ease with which a user of nail products can use and handle the product when she uses it herself.
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As the value of oil and gas has continued to rise, there has been increasing interest in methods for effectively retrieving all minerals from known mineral deposits and for discovering new reservoirs. Information about the rate of depletion and the migration of minerals within a mineral reservoir allow operators to apply the most effective production techniques to the particular reservoir conditions. Accurate monitoring of mineral depletion from a given reservoir requires replication of accurate surveys over a long period of time. Also, because differently placed and coupled receivers provide altered results, the seismic receivers need to be placed and coupled similarly for surveys conducted at different times.
One example of an earlier method entails drilling a production borehole, inserting a three-dimensional geophone instrument for data collection, and removing the instrument for mineral production from the borehole. A three-directional geophone is capable of detecting P waves and S waves. This allows for interpretation of: lithography, porosity, pore fluid type, pore shape, depth of burial consolidation, anisotropic changes in pressure, and anisotropic changes in temperature. However, if subsequent readings are to be obtained, production must cease and the instrument must be reinserted into the borehole. The position and coupling of the geophone receiver will not be the same as before and will, therefore, produce skewed data from that initially taken. Thus, even though this method detects both S and P waves, it is difficult to compare subsequent surveys because of different geophone positioning and coupling.
A second example of an earlier method comprises deploying geophones at various locations on the surface and taking readings. Once the survey is completed, the receivers are retrieved for subsequent use at another survey project. In an ocean survey, the water and mud layer typically kill the S waves so that they do not propagate up into the mud or water where they could be received by seismic instruments positioned there. This is also true for the soft earth surface layer of land surveys. Thus, the data collected at the surface is not as accurate as data collected from deep within a borehole. Also, like the previous method, if survey data is to be collected at a later time, the receivers must be re-deployed upon the surface. Again, the receivers are not likely to be positioned and coupled as in the first survey.
Therefore, in order to provide accurate surveys of reservoirs over time, there is a need for repeatability in the location of seismic receivers and in detection of both S-wave and P-wave signals.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an information display. Particularly, the present invention relates to a self light emitting display, further, to an electroluminescence (EL) display. Moreover, the present invention relates to an electronic device using the above mentioned display as its display.
2. Description of the Related Art
Recently, flat displays are used in many fields and places, and the importance is growing with the progressing of computerization. Nowadays, the typical examples of flat displays are liquid crystal displays (LCD), however, as flat displays based on a different display mode from that of LCD, organic EL, inorganic EL, plasma display panels (PDP), light emitting diode displays (LED), vacuum fluorescent displays (VFD), field emission displays (FED), and the like are being actively developed. These new flat displays are all called a display of self light emitting type, and are significantly different from LCD in the following points and have excellent features not observed in LCD.
LCD is called a light receiving type in which a liquid crystal itself does not emit light and acts as so-called shutter allowing permeation and shutoff of outer light, constituting a display. Therefore, it needs a light source, and in general, a back light is necessary. In contrast, that of light emitting type does not require a separate light source since the apparatus itself emits light. In those of light receiving type such a LCD, a back light is constantly on, irrespective of the form of displaying information, and electric power approximately the same as that under the entire display condition is consumed. In contrast, that of self light emitting type has a theoretical merit that consumption of electric power is smaller as compared with a display of a light receiving type since only portions required to be on depending on display information consume electric power.
Likewise, in LCD, since dark condition is obtained by shading light of a back light source, it is difficult to inhibit light leakage completely, even in small quantity, while in a display of self light emitting type, no light emitting condition is directly dark condition, therefore, theoretical dark condition can be obtained easily, and a display of self light emitting type is overwhelmingly excels also in terms of the contrast.
Since LCD utilizes polarization control by double refraction of liquid crystal, there is so-called strong visibility angle dependency, which display condition varies significantly depending on observing direction, while in the case of a display of self light emitting type, this problem scarcely happens.
Further, since LCD utilizes alignment change derived from the dielectric anisotropy of liquid crystal which is an organic elastic substance, the response time against electric signals is theoretically 1 ms or more. In contrast, in the above-mentioned technologies being developed, so-called carrier transition such as electron/hole, electron discharge, plasma discharge and the like are utilized. Consequently, the response time is in “ns” order, and incomparably faster than that of liquid crystal, causing no problem of remaining of animation derived from slowness of the response of LCD.
Among them, study of organic EL is particularly active. Organic EL is also referred to as OEL (Organic EL) or organic light emitting diode (OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode).
An OEL element and OLED element have a structure in which a layer (EL layer) containing an organic compound is sandwiched in between a pair of electrodes of an anode and a cathode, and a lamination structure of “anode electrode/hole injection layer/light emitting layer/cathode electrode” such as of Tang etc. is a basic structure (see Japanese Patent No. 1526026).
While a low molecular weight material such as Tangs etc. is used, Nakano et al. use a high molecular weight material (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open (JP-A) No. 3-273087).
Further, improvement in efficiency using a hole injection layer or electron injection layer, or control of light emitting color by doping a fluorescent dye and the like to a light emitting layer, are also conducted.
As the method for manufacturing a display using organic EL, formation of a light emitting layer by discharging a light emitting material using an ink jet discharging apparatus is known, and some methods are conventionally suggested (for example, see JP-A No. 2002-164181, International Publication No. 00/59267 pamphlet, JP-A No. 2001-85161 and JP-A No. 2001-341296).
In conventional methods, as described below, an electrode disconnection at a partition corner part which retains light emitting material ink in the form of solution and unevenness of the EL layer thickness due to a meniscus phenomenon are major problems. In JP-A No. 2002-164181, by smoothing the form of a partition as shown in FIG. 4, a problem of disconnection at a partition corner part can be solved. However, a problem of uneven thickness of an EL layer due to a meniscus phenomenon is not solved.
The problem of uneven thickness due to a meniscus phenomenon occurs not only in an EL light emitting layer but also in other functional layers, for example, a hole injection layer, hole transportation layer, electron injection layer and electron transportation layer when formed from a solution.
In manufacturing method for organic EL display by ink jet method, a method of evaporation drying a solvent forcibly, when the light emitting layer in the form of ink solvent is formed into a film, is already reported as a conventional method for solving the problem.
For example, in the International Publication No. 00/59267 pamphlet, a light emitting material which has been made into ink using a solvent having high boiling point is fed and distributed on a substrate, then, the substrate is heat treated. This procedure is performed to obtain an effect of drying a substrate by heating, even after formation of a light emitting layer on the entire surface of a substrate, by using a solvent of high boiling point to slow the evaporation speed of the solvent and to elongate air drying time. However, removing of a solvent of high boiling point completely cannot avoid a problem that heating treatment at higher temperature is necessary, leading to deterioration of a light emitting material. Though deterioration is not observed in the initial light emitting property, this problem exerts a large influence particularly on shortening of light emitting life. If heating treatment is not conducted at sufficient high temperature, a problem of heat deterioration of a light emitting layer will not occur, however, its leads to significant deterioration of the reliability of a light emitting layer due to the remaining of a solvent in a light emitting layer formed as a film.
In the JP-A No. 2001-85161, heating treatment is conducted at higher temperature than the softening point of a material of a light emitting layer, and there is a problem of deterioration as described above.
The method for manufacturing an organic EL display by an ink jet method will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, an EL material ink in the form of solution is precisely discharged to predetermined openings on a substrate by a finely processed nozzle.
Usually, when a light emitting layer is formed by an ink jet method, a light emitting material ink is discharged per one pixel in a dot, as shown in FIG. 6. Partitions are formed according to this. FIGS. 3 and 4 show cross sectional view of an arrow AB or an arrow CD of FIG. 6.
When light emitting layers of the same light emitting color are formed for plural adjacent pixels, such as a data line of passive matrix display, or even for an active matrix display when pixels are arranged in stripes, light emitting layers of the same color can be formed on the data line as well. In such a case, partition openings can also be formed in lines as shown in FIG. 7. In this case, in addition to the ink jet method, formation of a light emitting layer by so-called dispenser method is also possible.
In FIG. 5, the surface of the substrate is drawn as a flat surface. However, actually as shown in FIG. 3, there are partitions having a height of about 5 μm is formed on a substrate to retain the discharged ink. When the solution is discharged to inside of such fine partitions, formation of so-called meniscus surface condition, by the surface tension of liquid, cannot be avoided. When an EL material ink is dried by evaporation of a solvent under this meniscus surface condition, the meniscus surface condition as ink state is reflected as it is, and the thickness of an EL layer becomes uneven as shown in FIG. 3.
When an EL material ink is dried by evaporation of a solvent under this meniscus surface condition, the meniscus surface condition as ink state is reflected as it is, and the thickness of an EL layer becomes uneven as shown in FIG. 3. Conventionally, with such an EL layer having uneven thickness, even light emitting condition within a pixel could not be obtained. Particularly, there was a problem that gradation displaying control, which is a half tone, is difficult.
Otherwise, a problem of disconnection of facing electrodes is also important. Usually, since a facing electrode is formed by vapor depositing a metal thin film, thickness from 100 nm to at most 500 nm is a limitation for stable formation. When thicker than this, a risk of peeling increases due to the tension of a metal itself since it is no longer a thin film. With thickness in this range, when a partition has a height of 5 μm or more, disconnection tends to occur at a corner part of a partition 200, as shown in FIG. 3, and a lot of defective pixels occur in which electric field is not applied to an EL layer.
In the above, a case where an EL layer is formed by an ink jet method is mainly explained. That is because the problem of uneven thickness is most likely to occur remarkably when ink jet method is used. However, in cases where an EL layer is formed by other methods, it is not easy to completely solve the problem of uneven thickness within a pixel. For example, in casting method, layer-by-layer self-assembling method, spin coating method, dipping method, and the like, the problem of uneven thickness as same as an ink jet method will likely to occur since they are wet processes. Further, in vapor deposition method, cases where partitions as the above are used in order to keep a mask and a substrate surface from being in contact. And in that case, the thickness may become uneven near the partitions, leading to the same problem in such a case.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an electrically operated power steering apparatus in which a drive force of a motor assists a required value of steering torque applied to a steering wheel operated by an operator of an automotive vehicle.
2. Discussion of the Related Art
An electrically operated power steering apparatus for an automotive vehicle is generally constructed to include (a) a torque transmitting system transmitting steering torque which is applied to a steering wheel by a vehicle operator, to a steerable wheel of the vehicle laying on a road surface, so as to assist the steering torque, (b) a motor applying a drive force thereof to the torque transmitting system, and (c) a controlling device controlling an electric power supply to the motor.
Japanese Patent Publication No. 10-100913 discloses an example of a conventional type of the electrically operated power steering apparatus identified above. In this example, the temperature of a winding of a motor is estimated on the basis of a voltage and a current value of the motor, without the provision of a temperature sensor detecting a temperature of the motor. The estimated temperature results in preventing overheat of the motor.
However, in general, what can be accurately estimated in relation to the temperature of a winding of a motor by the use of a voltage and a current value of the motor is an increase of temperature of the motor winding at each one of a plurality of discrete points of time after a reference point of time. The increase is calculated from the temperature of the heated portion obtained at the reference point of time. The increase is a relative value, not an absolute value of temperature of the motor winding. In addition, the example explained above is not designed to detect or estimate an absolute value of temperature of the motor winding at the reference point of time. Consequently, this example fails to obtain the temperature of the motor with an adequately high precision.
In the case where a temperature sensor is arranged sufficiently near a winding of a motor, the temperature of the motor can be sequentially detected at a high precision. However, in this case, since such a temperature senor is generally expensive, there arises a problem that the substantial increase in the cost of an electrically operated power steering apparatus is unavoidable.
In addition, a problem of generation of heat as a result of a supply of an electric power to a motor arises about the motor in an electrically operated power steering apparatus, but the same problem can also arise about other electrical parts of the apparatus.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an electrically operated power steering apparatus in which the temperature of a heated portion of the apparatus which emits heat as a result of a supply of electric power to a motor can be more precisely obtained in lower cost.
The object may be achieved according to any one of the following modes of this invention. Each of these modes of the invention is numbered like the appended claims, and depends from the other mode or modes, where appropriate. This type of explanation about the present invention is for better understanding of some ones of a plurality of technical features and a plurality of combinations thereof disclosed in this specification, and does not mean that the plurality of technical feature and the plurality of combinations in this specification are interpreted to encompass only the following modes of this invention:
(1) An electrically operated power steering apparatus for an automotive vehicle having a steering wheel to be operated by an operator of the vehicle and a steerable wheel thereof laying on a road surface, comprising:
a torque transmitting system transmitting a steering torque which is applied to the steering wheel by the operator, to the steerable wheels;
a motor applying a drive force thereof to the torque transmitting system so as to assist the steering torque;
a controlling device controlling an electric power supply to the motor, thereby permitting reduction in a required value of the steering torque with the assist of the drive force of the motor; and
a power supply restricting device utilizing a temperature of a heated portion of the electrically operated power steering apparatus which emits heat as a result of the electric power supply to the motor, at a reference point of time, as an initial temperature of the heated portion, utilizing a plurality of electric power-related values each of which is related to at least one of a current and a voltage value of the motor, as a plurality of physical quantities related to temperature increases of the heated portion each of which is an increase of the temperature of the heated portion from that at the reference point of time, and restricting the electric power supply to the motor such that an actual value of the temperature of the heated portion does not exceed a predetermined upper limit thereof.
In general, the temperature of the heated portion, if not changed or gently changed, forms a constant relationship thereof with an ambient temperature of the heated portion. In addition, the ambient temperature of the heated portion can be detected without using a temperature sensor exclusively used for detection of the temperature of the heated portion. Accordingly, the temperature of the heated portion, if not changed or gently changed, can be easily detected or estimated.
The use of at least one of a current and a voltage value of the motor permits estimation of an increase of the temperature of the heated portion from that at a reference point of time. In addition, control of the motor is usually effected with feedback of at least one of a current and a voltage value of the motor. Therefore, a sensor detecting at least one of a current and a voltage value of the motor is usually provided with the electrically operated power steering apparatus. Consequently, in many cases, at least one of a current and a voltage value of the motor can be easily detected.
There exists a technology of using the temperature of the heated portion detected or estimated in the manner mentioned above, as an initial temperature of the heated portion. There also exists a technology of using at least one of a current and a voltage value of the motor as a physical quantity related to an increase of the temperature of the heated portion from that at a time when the initial temperature of the heated portion has been obtained. These two technologies can cooperate with each other to estimate the temperature of the heated portion at each one of a plurality of discrete points of time after the initial temperature of the heated portion has been obtained.
Based on the above findings, the apparatus according to this mode (1) utilizes the temperature of the heated portion at a reference point of time as an initial temperature of the heated portion, and utilizes at least one of a current and a voltage value of the motor as a physical quantity related to an increase of the temperature of the heated portion from that at the reference point of time. Further, the apparatus according to this mode (1) restricts an electric power supply to the motor so as to prevent an actual value of the temperature of the heated portion from exceeding a predetermined upper limit of the temperature of the heated portion.
Consequently, in the apparatus according to this mode (1), it is not indispensable to employ a temperature sensor which exclusively detects the temperature of the heated portion with a high precision and which is expensive. Therefore, a substantial increase in the cost of the apparatus resulting from the addition of a function of obtaining the temperature of the heated portion to an electrically operated power steering apparatus can be easily avoided.
Further, in the apparatus according to this mode (1), a determination as to whether the restriction on the electric power supply to the motor is necessary or not is performed using both of an initial value and a subsequent increase of the temperature of the heated portion from the initial value, both of which are reflected by the actual condition of the heated portion. As a result, the presence of an unnecessary restriction on the electric power supply at lower temperature of the heated portion can be easily avoided, and the absence of a necessary restriction on the electric power supply at higher temperature of the heated portion can also be easily avoided.
The apparatus according to this mode (1) may be adapted to include a temperature sensor capable of precisely detecting the temperature of the heated portion as long as the temperature is substantially in a stable condition thereof. The apparatus according to this mode (1) may be also adapted to include a temperature sensor capable of precisely detecting the temperature of the heated portion not only in a stable condition thereof but also in a transitional condition thereof.
In the apparatus according to this mode (1), the heated portion may be defined as the motor, a switching element connected to the motor and a power supply to the motor, at least one of a plurality of media for transferring current from the power supply to the motor, including such as a wire, a connector, etc., for example. The heated portion also may be defined as at least one of the plurality of media which is especially required to be prevented from being overheated.
In the apparatus according to this mode (1), the torque transmitting system is generally constructed to include (a) a steering shaft rotatable with the steering wheel, (b) an axially movable steering rod permitting the orientation of the steerable wheel to change, and (c) a coupling device operatively coupling the steering shaft and steering rod such that a rotary motion of the steering shaft is converted into a linear motion of the steering rod. In this arrangement, the motor is engaged to at least one of the steering shaft, steering rod and coupling device so as to apply to the at least one of these three elements a drive force of the motor for assisting the steering torque of the steering wheel applied by the vehicle operator.
In the apparatus according to this mode (1), the restriction on the electric power supply may be effected by reducing an actual and absolute value of current (i.e., electric current) of the motor to a certain value. The certain value is smaller than a nominal value of current of the motor available when the restriction on the electric power supply is unnecessary, but is not equal to zero. The restriction on the electric power supply also may be effected by reducing the actual and absolute value to zero.
(2) The apparatus according to the above mode (1), wherein the power supply restricting device comprises:
a temperature estimating means for repeating obtaining one of the plurality of electric power-related values after the reference point of time, for obtaining a sum of the plurality of electric power-related values which have been already obtained, each time a new one of the plurality of electric power-related values has been obtained, the obtained sum being defined as an integrated value of the already obtained plurality of electric power-related values, for estimating the temperature increase of the heated portion on the basis of the obtained integrated value, and for estimating the temperature of the heated portion at each one of a plurality of discrete points of time after the reference point of time, on the basis of the initial temperature and the estimated temperature increase of the heated portion; and
a power supply restricting means for restricting the electric power supply to the motor such that the actual value of the temperature of the heated portion does not exceed the predetermined upper limit, on the basis of the estimated temperature of the heated portion.
In the apparatus according to this mode (2), an increase of the temperature of the heated portion is estimated on the basis of an integrated value of a plurality of electric power-related values. As a result, the temperature increase of the heated portion is estimated by the adequate consideration of a time-dependent change in the electric power-related value. Therefore, in the apparatus according to this mode (2), the precision in estimation of the temperature increase of the heated portion is improved, resulting in another improvement in estimation of the temperature of the heating portion.
(3) The apparatus according to the above mode (2), wherein the power supply restricting means comprises a restricting amount determining means for, when the estimated temperature of the heated portion has reached a reference temperature formulated to be lower than the predetermined upper limit, restricting the electric power supply to the motor, and for repeating determining a restricting amount by which the electric power supply to the motor is to be restricted, on the basis of the estimated temperature of the heated portion at a corresponding one of a plurality of discrete points of time.
In the apparatus according to this mode (3), a restricting amount by which the electric power supply is to be restricted is repeatedly determined after the commencement of restriction on the electric power supply to the motor, on the basis of the temperature of the heated portion estimated at a corresponding one of a plurality of discrete points of time. Therefore, it can surely be avoided that an actual temperature of the heated portion exceeds the predetermined upper limit thereof.
(4) The apparatus according to the above mode (1), wherein the power supply restricting device comprises:
an allowable supply time period determining means for utilizing an initiation point of time of a holding operation of the steering wheel during which the vehicle operator is holding the steering wheel substantially at one steering position thereof which is other than a neutral position thereof, and for determining a time period which is estimated to pass from the initiation point of time of the holding operation until the temperature of the heated portion has reached the reference temperature, on the basis of the initial temperature of the heated portion, a reference temperature of the heated portion at which the restriction on the electric power supply to the motor is to be initiated, and the electric power-related value obtained at the initiation point of time of the holding operation, the determined time period being defined as an allowable supply time period for the electric power supply to the motor; and
a supply restricting means for starting restricting the electric power supply to the motor when the determined allowable time period has passed.
In a holding operation during which the vehicle operator holds the steering wheel at one steering angle thereof, a change in the magnitude of the electric power supply to the motor, i.e., the electric power-related value of the motor is not as large as in a steering operation during which the vehicle operator operates the steering wheel so as to increase a steering angle thereof. Accordingly, if the magnitude of the electric power-related value at an initiation of the holding operation can be recognized, an increase of the temperature of the heated portion at each one of a plurality of discrete points of time after the initiation of the holding operation can be represented as a function of time, during the holding operation.
Based on this finding, in the apparatus according to this mode (4), an allowable power supply time period for the motor is determined as a time period which is estimated to pass from an initiation of a holding operation until the temperature of the heated portion has reached a reference temperature, on the basis of the initial temperature of the heated portion, and the electric power-related value obtained at the initiation of the holding operation. Further, when the determined allowable time period has passed, the restriction on the electric power supply to the motor is initiated.
Therefore, the apparatus according to this mode (4) can easily prevent an actual value of the temperature of the heated portion from exceeding the predetermined upper limit without an indispensable performance of integration of the plurality of electric power-related values.
In the apparatus according to this mode (4), the term xe2x80x9ca holding operationxe2x80x9d may be defined as an operation during which the rate of change in a steering angle of the steering wheel or an amount of change in the steering angel per a certain time period is not larger than a reference value. The term xe2x80x9ca holding operationxe2x80x9d also may be defined as an operation during which the rate of change in the electric power-related value or an amount of change in the electric power-related value is not larger than a reference value.
(5) The apparatus according to the above mode (4), further comprising a second allowable time period determining means for, at a change point of time when a time-dependent change of the electric power-related value occurs, whose amount is not less than a predetermined reference value thereof, during the holding operation, estimating the temperature increase which is an increase of the temperature of the heated portion from that at the initiation point of time of the holding operation, on the basis of an integrated value of the plurality of electric power-related values obtained during a period from the initiation point of time of the holding operation to the change point of time, and for estimating a time period which is expected to pass from the change point of time until the temperature of the heated portion has reached the reference temperature, on the basis of a sum of the estimated temperature increase and the initial temperature of the heated portion, and the electric power-related value obtained at the change point of time, the estimated time period being defined as a second allowable supply time period for the electric power supply to the motor.
There exists a fact that the electric power-related value, i.e., a physical quantity related to the temperature of the heated portion can vary even during a holding operation of the steering wheel by the vehicle operator. There also exists a fact that the temperature of the heated portion when a time-dependent change in the electric power-related value can be estimated on the basis of an integrated value of a plurality of electric-power related values which have been obtained since the initiation of the holding operation, and the initial temperature of the heated portion. In light of these facts, the apparatus according to this mode (5) determines a time period which is estimated to pass from the occurrence of the time-dependent change until the temperature of the heated portion has reached a reference temperature as a second allowable supply time period for the motor.
Accordingly, the apparatus according to this mode (5) can prevent an actual value of the temperature of the heated portion from exceeding the predetermined upper limit thereof due to a time-dependent change in the electric-power-related value during a holding operation of the steering wheel by the vehicle operator.
(6) The apparatus according to the above mode (4) or (5), wherein the allowable time period determining means comprises:
a first means for determining an allowable increase of the temperature of the heated portion on the basis of a difference between the reference temperature and the initial temperature of the heated portion; and
a second means for determining the allowable supply time period corresponding to both the electric power-related value obtained at the initiation point of time of the holding operation and the determined allowable increase of the heated portion, according to a predetermined relationship among the electric power-related value obtained at the initiation point of time of the holding operation, the allowable increase, and the allowable supply time period.
(7) The apparatus according to the above mode (6), wherein the second means comprises a means for determining the allowable supply time period such that the allowable supply time period decreases as the allowable increase decreases, and decreases as the electric power-related value at the initiation point of time of the holding operation increases.
(8) The apparatus according to any one of the above modes (1)-(7), wherein the power supply restricting device comprises an initial temperature determining means for determining an ambient temperature of the heated portion at the reference point of time, as the initial temperature of the heated portion.
(9) The apparatus according to any one of the above modes (1)-(8), further comprising a torque detecting device detecting the steering torque, the torque detecting device including a temperature sensor detecting a temperature of the torque detecting device, the power supply restricting device comprising an initial temperature obtaining means for obtaining the initial temperature of the heated portion on the basis of the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.
In the apparatus according to this mode (9), the same temperature sensor performs both detection of the temperature of the heated portion and acquisition of an initial temperature of the heated portion. Accordingly, the apparatus according to this mode (9) can eliminate the total number of temperature sensors installed in an automotive vehicle, compared with the case where detection of the temperature of the heated portion and acquisition of an initial temperature of the heated portion are separately performed by respective temperature sensors. As a result, the apparatus according to this mode (9) can reduce increase in the cost of the apparatus due to the addition of a function for obtaining the temperature of the heated portion.
(10) The apparatus according to the above mode (9), wherein the temperature sensor is located near the heated portion in the electrically operated power steering apparatus.
(11) The apparatus according to the above mode (9) of (10), wherein the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the torque detecting device as a temperature to be changed according to a substantially constant correlation thereof with an ambient temperature of the heated portion.
(12) The apparatus according to any one of the above modes (9)-(11), wherein the controlling device comprises a means for controlling the electric power supply to the motor on the basis of the steering torque detected by the torque detecting device.
(13) The apparatus according to the above mode (1), wherein the power supply restricting device comprises:
a first allowable supply time period determining means for using an initiation point of time of one continuous steering operation of the steering wheel by the vehicle operator, and for determining a time period which is expected to pass from the initiation point of one continuous steering operation until the temperature of the heated portion has reached a reference temperature at which the restriction on the electric power supply to the motor is to be initiated, on the basis of the initial temperature of the heated portion, a reference temperature formulated to be lower than the predetermined upper limit, and the electric power-related value obtained at the initiation point of time of one continuous steering operation, the determined time period being defined as a first allowable supply time period for the electric power supply to the motor; and
a second allowable supply time period determining means for, at each one of a plurality of discrete points of time after the initiation point of time of one continuous steering operation, estimating the temperature increase which is an increase of the temperature of the heated portion from that at the initiation point of time of one continuous steering operation, on the basis of an integrated value of at least one of the plurality of electrical power-related values which has been obtained since the initiation point of time of one continuous steering operation, and for determining a time period which is expected to pass from each one of the plurality of discrete points of time until the temperature of the heated portion has reached the reference temperature, on the basis of a sum of the estimated temperature increase and the initial temperature of the heated portion, and the electric power-related value obtained at a corresponding one of the plurality of discrete points of time, the determined time period being defined as a second allowable supply time period for the electric power supply to the motor; and
a supply restricting means for starting restricting the power supply to the motor when the first or second allowable supply time period determined by the first or second allowable supply time period determining means has passed.
The apparatus according to this mode (13) can prevent an actual value of the temperature of the heated portion from exceeding the predetermined upper limit, according to the principle corresponding to a principle which is employed in the apparatus according to the above mode (4).
The apparatus according to this mode (13) may be used, irrespective of whether one continuous steering operation set forth in this mode (13) is defined as the holding operation set forth in the above mode (4).
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1. Field of the invention
The invention is generally related to a scanning tunnelling or atomic force microscope and more particularly to the manufacturing of tip and probe used in said scanning tunnelling or atomic force microscope.
2. Description of the Related Art
Scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and electrical atomic force microscopy (AFM) enables us today to carry out electrical and/or topographical measurements on modern semiconductor devices with nanometer (nm) spatial resolution. These measurements are done by scanning at least one small conductive tip over the device surface and recording at the same time topographical information and/or electrical signals.
Metal is preferably used as tip material due to its excellent electrical conductivity. Silicon (Si) tips with a thin metal coating, typically 10-25 nm thick, are commercially available since the early 1990""s but the metal coatings rapidly wear off. Therefore solid metal pyramids made by the so-called molding technique have been developed which are integrated into Si cantilevers or metal cantilevers. The metal cantilever probes, also called full metal probes, are preferred because they are highly conductive and require fewer process steps. In European Patent No 0899538xe2x80x9cA probe tip configuration, a method of fabricating probe tips and use thereofxe2x80x9d, (which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety) the inventors discloses a method of fabricating probe tips applying said so-called molding technique. The fabrication and use of a metal tip is disclosed in xe2x80x9cFabrication and use of metal tip and tip-on-tip probes for AFM-based device analysesxe2x80x9d, by T. Hantschel et al. Proc. of SPIE, 3512, pp. 92-103, 1998 (which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). A method of manufacturing full metal probes is disclosed in xe2x80x9cFabrication of an all-metal atomic force microscope probexe2x80x9d, J.P. Rasmussen, Proc. Of Transducers ""97, p 463-466, 1997 or in xe2x80x9cThe fabrication of a full metal AFM probe and its applications for Si and InP device analysisxe2x80x9d, T. Hantschel et Al., Proc. Micromachining and Microfabrication conference, 1999 (both hereby Incorporated by reference in their entirety). This manufacturing method is schematically illustrated in FIG. 1e-1f. In FIGS. 1e and 1f the cantilever is drawn in side view for the purpose of teaching.
1. The wafer needs to be processed from both sides whereby precautions have to be taken to protect the non-processed side.
2. A lithographic tool, e.g. a mask aligner, is required to align patterns defined on the backside of the substrate to the front or topside of the wafer.
3. The backside of the silicon substrate will be etched to release at the front-side the cantilever with metal tip (see FIGS. 1a,e) and hence the substrate cannot be re-used.
4. This backside etching requires wafer scale uniformity of e.g. wafer thickness, etch speed, etch selectivity to avoid local over-etching of the tip and/or probe and it is a time consuming step.
5. During this etch step the tip, e.g. its radius or sidewalls, can be modified by the etch chemicals.
In European Patent No. 0763844 entitled xe2x80x9cmethod of manufacturing micro-tip and female mold substrate therefor, and method of manufacturing probe with micro-tipxe2x80x9d (which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety) some of these disadvantages are indicated. The inventor T. Yagi proposes a method to overcome some of the above-mentioned disadvantages, as illustrated in FIG. 2. According to European Patent No. 0763844 the first substrate is used to define the probe tip (23) while the second substrate is used to define the cantilever. Depending on the choice of the second substrate or its stack composition several types of cantilevers can be obtained. The first substrate could be re-used.
The above mentioned process method still suffers from the following disadvantages:
1. Two substrates are required to manufacture a probe tip with cantilever.
2. The metal, peeling layer and substrate have to be chosen such to obtain the correct relative strength of the different layers to allow tearing off the first second substrate from the probe tip.
3. The second substrate still requires an etching of the rear surface to define a cantilever and to release the probe tip. All problems related to such rear side etching remains.
Therefore, there is a need in the industry for a cost effective method of manufacturing tips and probes for use in scanning tunnelling or atomic force microscopes.
It is an aim of the invention to achieve a cost and time efficient method to manufacture probes used in scanning microscopy, e.g. AFM, STM, SSRM or likewise. This method comprises front side processing steps and avoids the backside lithography and time consuming etching steps required to create a probe membrane or to release the probe membrane. This method requires one substrate to form a full probe consisting of a probe tip, cantilever and probe membrane. This method allows easy removal of the probe prior to mounting the probe into a scanning microscope.
Another aim of the invention is to achieve a method of manufacturing a full metal probe comprising front side lithography steps, thereby allowing the probe tip and the cantilever to be separately processed. Hence the probe tip can be made from a material or metallisation scheme different from that of the cantilever. The characteristics of the probe tip can optimised independently from the cantilever.
It is one object of the invention to disclose a cost and time efficient method to manufacture probes used in scanning microscopy, e.g. AFM, STM, SSRM or likewise. This method comprises front side processing steps and avoids the backside lithography and time consuming etching steps required to create a probe membrane or to release the probe membrane.
One object of the invention is to a method comprising the steps of providing a substrate, depositing on said substrate a hard mask. During a first patterning step a mold is created in said hard mask and said substrate. A first layer is deposited on said patterned hard mask. This first layer has a sufficiently high enough adhesion to said hard mask to allow further processing, but this adhesion force is weak enough to be overcome when peeling the probe gradually from said underlying hard mask. During a second patterning step said first layer is patterned to form a probe tip configuration comprising at least a probe tip. By partially or fully under-etching said probe tip configuration from the front side of the substrate, the probe tip configuration can be removed from said substrate by lifting the probe.
Said method can further comprise the step of forming selective to said patterned first layer at least one additional layer before under-etching said patterned stack.
Said method can further comprise the step of mounting a holder chip to said probe tip configuration before peeling of the probe.
Said hard mask can be nitride, oxide, oxynitride or a combination of layers. Said first layer can be a metal, preferably a stack of Ti:W and Au.
Another object of the invention is to a method of manufacturing a full metal probe comprising front side lithography and processing steps, thereby allowing the probe tip and the cantilever to be separately processed. Hence the probe tip can be made from a material or metallisation scheme different from the cantilever. After depositing the first layer or a stack of layers the area of the probe tip is defined in an intermediate, third, patterning step. Hereafter a second layer can be deposited on said hard mask and said patterned first layer. This second layer will be patterned in the last patterning step to define the probe tip configuration consisting of probe membrane or contact area, cantilever and overlapping the probe tip area. Said second layer can be a metal, preferably a stack of Ti:W and Au.
Said method can further comprise the step of forming selective to said patterned second layer at least one additional layer before under-etching said patterned stack.
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(a) Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a bottom emission type electroluminescent display.
(b) Description of the Related Art
Electroluminescent displays are active light-emitting display devices and have many advantages over cathode ray tubes (CRTs) or liquid crystal displays (LCDs). For example, electroluminescent displays have a wide viewing angle, high contrast, fast response speed, light weight, small size, thin thickness, and low power consumption. Therefore, there has been an increasing interest in electroluminescent displays. Electroluminescent displays are generally classified as inorganic electroluminescent displays and organic electroluminescent displays based on whether a light emission layer is made of an inorganic material or an organic material.
FIG. 1 shows a conventional electroluminescent display having a structure similar to the structure disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,539,507. The electroluminescent display of FIG. 1 has a stacked structure including an anode 20, a medium layer 30, and a cathode 40 on a transparent substrate 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the medium layer comprises a hole injection layer 31, a hole transport layer 32, a light emitting layer 33, an electron transport layer 34, and an electron injection layer 35. However, all the layers, except for the light emission layer, may be omitted as needed. The anode 20 is made of a transparent material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO). While some light emitted from the light emitting layer 33 is reflected by the cathode 40 and then discharged through the anode 20 and the transparent substrate 10, other light is directly discharged through the anode 20 and the transparent substrate 10 without being reflected by the cathode 40. However, since light emitted from the light emitting layer undergoes once constructive interference one time before being discharged from the electroluminescent display, enhancement of light emission characteristics is slight.
FIG. 2 shows a top emission type electroluminescent display as disclosed in Applied Physics Letter, Vol. 63, 594 (1993). In this electroluminescent display, some light emitted from a light emitting layer 33 undergoes constructive interference by anode 20 and a partial reflection layer 50.
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention generally relates to methods and apparatus which employ high energy gas bubbles to generate underwater, sharp, impulsive acoustic signals especially useful in marine seismic exploration. The invention relates more particularly to improve such methods and apparatus wherein secondary acoustic pulses or signals are suppressed.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Certain seismic sources such as explosives, air guns, gas exploders, etc., are purposely fired deep under water. It is well known that such firing creates a gas bubble or cavity and that the water acquires oscillatory energy which generates acoustic pressure wavelets, each consisting of a desired "primary" acoustic pressure pulse having an amplitude P.sub.o, which is especially useful for most seismic exploration work, and which is followed by an oscillating succession of undesired "secondary" (sometimes called "bubble") acoustic pulses of decreasing amplitude. In this specification, the words "bubble" and "cavity" will be used interchangeably.
For example, an air gun explosively releases a high pressure gas bubble having an energy E.sub.a into the water which creates a desired primary pressure pulse having a maximum amplitude P.sub.o. After the released high-pressure gas bubble impulsively contacts the surrounding water, it continues to expand as the water first accelerates outwardly and later decelerates until the cavity attains a maximum volume and comes to rest, at which time the pressure within the cavity is much less than the surrounding hydrostatic pressure. At this point, the cavity has attained a maximum volume V.sub.m.
When the expanding bubble reaches its maximum volume, there is practically a vacuum inside the bubble, the kinetic energy of the surrounding water is zero, and this water possesses maximum oscillatory potential energy which, if not suppressed, will change into kinetic energy, back into potential energy, etc., for a duration of several cycles, each having an oscillatory time period T.
The water gains maximum potential energy at 1/2 T, at which time the water is ready to change course and rush inwardly to implode the gas in the bubble. After one complete cycle, i.e., at time T, the bubble is recompressed into a relatively small-diameter, high-pressure bubble. The surrounding water comes to an abrupt stop resulting in a first positive acoustic secondary pulse having an amplitude P.sub.2 which is mainly dependent upon the maximum kinetic energy acquired by the inwardly-moving water. The less kinetic energy acquired by the water, the smaller the amplitude P.sub.2 will be.
Thus, the secondary pulse phenomenon occurs when the surrounding water first violently implodes the bubble to a minimum diameter or volume, the kinetic energy is again zero and the potential energy is mainly contained within the recompressed gas inside the bubble. This potential energy causes the bubble to again explode in its oscillatory scheme as previously described.
In this manner, the oscillatory energy stored in the water produces several successive secondary pulses of decreasing amplitude until a portion of the energy of oscillation becomes dissipated by natural processes, such as turbulence, and the remaining portion is consumed to produce the undesired secondary pulses.
The number of such bubble explosions (expansions) and implosions (contractions) may vary, but typically four to six significant secondary pulses can be expected after each primary pulse P.sub.o which is generated by the seismic source. Hence, a substantial portion of the acoustic energy released by the seismic source goes to waste because only a portion of the energy contained in the released gas is used to produce the desired primary seismic pulse P.sub.o, while the remaining and substantial portion of the energy becomes converted into harmful secondary seismic pulses having amplitudes P.sub.2 which must be suppressed.
In seismic exploration, both the primary and secondary acoustic pulses act as distinct acoustic disturbances which travel in the water in all directions, penetrate the earth, strike one or more rock formations or reflectors, and then return into the body of water. The primary and secondary pulses produce reflected seismic wavelets. But, since the secondary pulses and their reflected waves occur at times when the reflected primary waves also return from the subterranean reflectors, the secondary pulses and their reflected wavelets interfere with the reflected primary waves. Further, because the reflected secondary waves and the reflected primary waves are similar in shape, no practical way has yet been found for distinguishing between them.
In conducting marine seismic surveys, the reflected primary and secondary seismic waves are sensed by detectors within a towed streamer cable. The detectors faithfully transform the received acoustic seismic waves into corresponding electric signals which are processed into seismic traces that contain appreciable noise. This noise is due mostly to the oscillatory secondary pulses which accompany each primary pulse. Under these noisy conditions, computations of the depths at which the rock formations lie become very difficult and sometimes altogether impossible. This noise hinders the main object of the seismic exploration, which is, of course, to identify the various subterranean formations from an interpretation of the seismogram sections produced by the seismic survey.
The secondary-to-primary ratio amplitude P.sub.2 /P.sub.o is the benchmark by which all marine seismic sources are measured as to bubble suppression. An "ideal" source is said to be that source which has a ratio P.sub.2 /P.sub.o =0 for a frequency range from 0-125 Hz. Therefore, the extent to which a particular seismic source approaches the ideal seismic source can be readily measured by measuring its P.sub.2 /P.sub.o ratio.
An ideal seismic source produces a single, short, sharp acoustic impulse having sufficient energy and no secondary pulses. Sharp impulses are needed to improve the definition of seismic reflections, because resolution is inversely proportional to the time-width of the impulse: the larger the time-width of the impulse, the less desirable it is. Fired near the water surface, a dynamite charge or other similar concentrated explosion closely approximates the ideal seismic source, because the bubbles resulting from each explosion are vented immediately into the atmosphere, hence there are no bubble implosions. If not fired near the water surface, explosive seismic sources will produce undesired secondary pulses, unless some form of implosion suppression is utilized. Explosive seismic sources include explosives, air guns, gasguns, expandable sleeve devices in which propane and oxygen are mixed to cause internal combustion, etc. All of these share the common bubble problem for which there has been no fully satisfactory solution, even though there has been a long-felt need to find a mechanism to enhance the desired primary pulse at the expense of the undesired secondary pulses.
In the absence of such a mechanism, many attempts have been made in the past twenty-five years or more by the energy industry and their seismic contractors to develop techniques for reducing the burden, financial and technological, imposed by the generation of the undesirable secondary pulses. These efforts have been directed toward attenuating the oscillatory secondary pulses and/or to reduce their ill effects. From the initial introduction of marine seismic sources, there has been a continuous need for effective and economical bubble suppression devices. That need and the various solutions offered to fill that need are well described in the technical and patent literature.
One early mechanical technique attempt to prevent the secondary pulses from traveling vertically downward towards the water bottom involved a method whereby the gas bubble source was substantially enveloped in a container or cage having perforations, such that the expanding gas bubble would have to do work in order to force water through the perforations. The work performed by the expanding gas bubble dissipated its internal energy, so that the ensuing secondary pulses would have reduced amplitudes. This technique has been used in a seismic source trademarked FLEXOTIR. A serious limitation inherent in this technique has been that the desired primary pulses also become reduced in strength because they can travel freely only through the available perforations. Also, the perforated cage becomes subjected to rapid deterioration, due to the great stresses to which it becomes subjected when large differential pressures become exerted across its wall.
Various software programs have also been developed, for example, in connection with the MAXIPULSE (trademark) seismic source, which utilize fast and powerful digital computer which produce seismograms from which the detected noisy seismic waves, caused by the deleterious bubble effects, have been removed so that the seismograms can be easier interpreted by the geophysicists. However, running such programs requires the use of expensive computer time and manpower, see e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 3,592,286.
Other prior art techniques have been based on air being injected into the expanding bubble for shaping the secondary pulses. The known applications of the air injection technique have led prior art workers to very disappointing results and most of them were abandoned.
Due to the inefficiency or impracticability of known bubble suppression techniques, the seismic industry has also been obliged to employ a "tuned" array of seismic sources. Typically, these sources are air guns of markedly different sizes. In theory when all such seismic sources are situated in a tuned array, and then fired simultaneously, the amplitude of the resulting primary pulse of the array will be equal to the sum of the amplitudes of the individual primary pulses generated by the individual acoustic sources. Conversely, the amplitudes of the secondary pulses will theoretically be reduced because (1) they are not in phase, (2) they occur at different times, and (3) they have random frequencies.
Though the aforedescribed array technique has been the standard in this art, this technique has presented serious drawbacks since the resultant seismic signature is only a composite of individual sources, each source lacking a narrow, sharp acoustic pulse as required. Also it has been very expensive to build such an array because it has required a large number of differently-sized air guns, as well as heavy and expensive air compressors, to provide the appropriate volume of pressurized gas consumed by the large number of airguns. Additionally, there is also a need to maintain on boat a large inventory of spare parts to keep the differently-sized sources operational. The spare part problem is very serious, because in many parts of the world they are not available and they must be flown in from the home base. Many parts break down daily and some weekly due to salt water, pollution, unsuspected debris, high pressure, etc.
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A display system presently in use under such circumstances for leak detectors comprises two parallel rectilinear strips, one of which is graduated in various negative powers of ten and the other is graduated from 0 to 10, giving the value of the multiple for the negative power of ten as displayed on the first strip.
Such a display system suffers from the drawback of requiring two display strips to be observed in succession, and in the event of the value of the signal varying rapidly over a range covering several powers of ten, the strip graduated from 0 to 10 rises very quickly and several times in succession, starting again from zero on each occasion, giving rise to a disagreeable flashing effect.
Another known display system has one window in which a rough value for the signal is displayed, specifying the power of ten range for the value of the signal, and a circular strip for giving the multiple in the range 1 to 10 for said power of ten.
In that case also, the observer needs to look at two distinct locations and the rapid rotation of the index mark on the circular strip in the event of large variation in the value of the signal is likewise quite misleading.
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The invention relates to a silver filled adhesive and more particularly to a single step, low temperature curing silver-filled, polyimide adhesive which is specifically adapted to bond silicon semiconductive devices to substrates.
Existing polyimide die attach adhesives, based on acetylene terminated resins, required a two step cure at high temperature (pre-dry to remove solvent, then final cure to crosslink). Final cure with said existing polyimides has generally required heating over 250.degree. C., which damages some lead frame materials, and which produces very high thermal stresses during cool down. The two step cure process raises costs, slows production, and prohibits use of the adhesive on heat-sensitive parts.
Bismaleimide (BMI) resins have been used extensively as unfilled binder solutions for laminates and adhesives. BMI resins have not hitherto been used in filled paste adhesives due to the inherent instability with many filler solvent combinations. The maleic end groups of BMI resin, the preferred base resin of this invention react much more readily than the acetylene end groups of polyimides used in conventional die attach adhesives. Thus, using bismaleimide, an adhesive has been produced which will yield superior properties when cured at low temperatures (140.degree.-180.degree. C.).
Accordingly, it is a principal object of this invention to provide a low temperature, single step curing silver filled paste.
It is a further object of this invention to provide such a paste which is stable for long periods at or below room temperature.
It is still a further object of this invention to provide such a paste which will give high electrical conductivity, high strength bonds with a minimum of voids and with low thermal stresses after cure.
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Portable chair generally consists of a collapsible chair frame constructed by metal tubes, and a chair seat made of durable fabric.
FIG. 1 illustrates a type of portable chair which includes a chair frame A1 which is constructed by a set of interlocking tubes A11 to pvoide a back frame section A2 and a seat frame section A3 for supporting a fabric seat B1. The interlocking tubes A11 of the seat frame A1 are often arranged in inclined manner so that the chair frame A1 can be easily opened to proivde a rigid cross-support for use and be folded up for storage.
The conventional method of attaching the fabric seat B1 to the chair frame A1 is to affix an upper end B2 of the fabric seat B1 to a top end of the back frame section A2 and to have two tube placement holes B11 provided at two front corners of the fabric seat B1 for mounting a front end B3 of the fabric seat B1 on two the seat frame. Each of the placement holes The conventional fabric seat is attached to the seat frame by slipping the tube placement holes over the inclined frame tubes of the seat frame portion of the chair. The seat can then be hooked over the top of the back frame to secure the back of the fabric seat to the frame. This means that at least two tube placement holes on the front portion of the fabric seat for attaching the fabric seat to the front portion of a seat frame are needed for the conventional fabric seat in order to attach the fabric seat to a seat frame.
All typical frame tubes A11, including the two front frame tubes A11a, are cylindrical hollow tube and the tube placement holes B11 of the conventional fabric seat B1 are cut in circular shape and to the size of the frame tube A11 as if the fabric seat B1 were resting perpendicular to the frame tube A11. This allows the tube placement hole B11 of the fabric seat B1 to slide onto the inclined frame tube A11 easily and snugly. This conventional design, however, has inherent problems when the chair is used. Since the two front frame tube A11a are supported inclinedly and pivotally in cross manner but not in vertical manner, an individual sitting down on the fabric seat B1 causes stress to the lining of the tube placement hole B11 of the fabric seat B1. This causes the tube placement hole B11 to be stretched and misshapen, or worse, torn open, as a pulling pressure is applied to the lining of the tube placement holes B11 as an individual sits on the fabric seat B1.
Conventionally, in order to reinforce the structural integrity of the tube placement hole B11, a circular support ring made of a rigid material, such as metal or hard plastic, can be mounted on the placed within the tube placement hole.
However, since the support ring lining of the tube placement hole B11 is also cylindrical and just wider then the width of frame tube, it merely shifts the point of stress on the fabric seat B1. The circular support ring merely sits perpendicularly to an axis of the frame tube B11. In this situation, if an individual sits down, an angle is created on the fabric seat B1 from the downward pulling force on the fabric seat B1 at the point where the edge of the support ring ends. A person's weight causes the fabric seat B1 to be pulled away from the edge of the support ring. Therefore, the fabric seat B1 at the edge of the support ring is pulled from a stress created at the edge of the support ring. At the same time, the ring itself causes an opposite downward pulling force on the fabric seat B1 at the same stress point. As a result, two things occur. First, the fabric seat B1 will be distorted at the edge of the support ring, creating a pointed ridge at the edge of the support ring. Second, a stress point is created at edge of the support ring where the angle is created.
In other words, the stress on the fabric seat B1 has simply been transferred from the lining of the tube placement hole B11 to a point just off the tube placement hole B11. The stress created will then cause a tear, not at the tube placement hole B11, but along the edge of the support ring. Although additional lining layers B12 may be added to the corners of the fabric seat B1 around the tube placement hole B11 to delay the tearing effect, ultimately the stress will cause the fabric seat B1 to tear. Also, the fabric will be permanently misshapen at the stress point over a period of continued use.
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This invention relates generally to apparatus for printing on the exterior surfaces of containers, and more particularly, is directed to an assembly for rotating the mandrels on which the containers are held.
In general, a variety of machines for applying decorative finishes to plastic frusto-conical cups are known. Such machines include an intermittently rotatable mandrel wheel having a plurality of spaced, radially directed mandrels located on the periphery of the mandrel wheel for holding the cups thereon. After each cup is received on a corresponding mandrel at the loading station, the mandrels are intermittently rotated with the mandrel wheel to a pre-treatment station, a printing station, a cure station and finally to an unloading station at which the cup thereat is removed from the respective mandrel. At the pre-treatment station, the plastic cup is subjected to a glass flame or electrical discharge which provides better adherence of the ink to the cup at the subsequent printing station. At the printing station, a printing blanket is brought into contact with each of the cups, to place a decoration on the outer frusto-conical surface thereof, and at the subsequent cure station, the ink is cured by ultraviolet light.
In order to provide a uniform pre-treatment and cure to each cup, the mandrels are rotated or spun at the pre-treatment and cure stations. Conventionally, this has been accomplished by a separate roller mechanism which contacted the mandrel and rotated the same at the pre-treatment and cure stations. Accordingly, a separate motor and roller wheel have conventionally been provided at each station for such purpose. This has proven to be extremely costly and ineffective.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,543,883 discloses an apparatus for printing on frusto-conical cups in which the mandrels intermittently move through 16 different positions for each revolution of the mandrel wheel or turret. During such movement, all of the mandrels are continuously rotated about their respective rotational axis by means of a continuously rotating ring gear which rotates the mandrels through respective pinions. Because of this arrangement, different mandrels cannot be selectively rotated, while not rotating the remaining mandrels.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,934,500 discloses an apparatus for printing on cylindrical or frusto-conical containers with an ultraviolet light ink, in which a turret or mandrel wheel includes a plurality of mandrels spaced therearound. The turret is rotated in synchronism to register each mandrel in turn at a loading station, printing station, drying station, and an unloading station. Each of the mandrels is secured on the outer end of a drive shaft rotatably mounted to the turret, the axis of the shaft being radially disposed. A bevel gear is secured on the inner end of the shaft. Therefore, with this apparatus, all of the mandrels rotate continuously in synchronism with the intermittent indexing movements of the turret, in a manner similar to that of U.S. Pat. No. 4,543,883. See also U.S. Pat. No. 3,645,201, which describes another arrangement in which a gear is permanently in mesh with bevel gears for rotating all of the mandrels.
In addition, with these latter arrangements, the mandrels are rotated by the same drive that drives the machine, that is, the mandrel wheel. It is sometimes desirable to adjust the speed of rotation of the mandrels without changing the rotational speed of the mandrel wheel. This adjustment, however, cannot be made with these machines. U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,425,928; 3,962,970; and 3,977,318 disclose other apparatus for printing on frusto-chonical cups.
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Vehicle emission has become a leading source of atmosphere pollution with increasing vehicle population. Environmental issues of air pollution, acid rain, green house effects, etc., due to fuel vehicle emission have shadowed the development of vehicles, and people also are more devoted to the research and development of clean-fuel electric vehicles with environmental protection while improving fuel vehicles in view of rapid consumption of oil energy sources. Both a hybrid powered vehicles and a pure electric vehicle have earned increasing attention of people, but a power source of the electric vehicle, i.e., a power battery pack, contributes to a highest part of the production cost of the vehicle and also an crucial factor limiting the endurance mileage of the electric vehicle. Therefore, the pure electric vehicle which greatly depends upon the development of the battery has not gained any crucial breakthrough during the development in the past dozens of years, and the hybrid powered vehicle has the advantages of both internal-combustion engine and pure electric vehicles to be advantageous in terms of low oil consumption, low emission, a long driving distance, etc., and thus is the focus of attention of various vehicle manufactures worldwide and also a relatively feasible solution.
The hybrid powered vehicle is provided thereon with two power sources, i.e., an engine and a battery, and the management of the two power sources is important in terms of ensuring normal and efficient operation of a system and durability of the system. An accumulator with good performance as a worldwide puzzle has been in slow development relative to the rapid development of modern electronics and information technologies, so the management of the battery becomes particularly crucial at present.
In a commonly used method for limiting charging and discharging current of a battery, State Of Charge (SOC), voltage and temperature signals of the battery are collected in real time, and then a limiting torque is derived from a lookup table based upon experimental data. An implementation of this method depends upon a large amount of experimental data and these experimental data have to be modified in a timely way as the aging of battery or the varying environment, which may be time and effort consuming.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a wired circuit board and, more particularly, to a wired circuit board suitably used for a suspension board with circuit.
2. Description of the Prior Art
For example, a suspension board with circuit used for a hard disk drive comprises a supporting board 1 made of stainless steel foil, a base layer 2 formed of an insulating material formed on the supporting board 1, a conductive layer 3 formed on the base layer 2 in the form of a specific circuit pattern, and a cover layer 4, formed of an insulating material, for covering the conductive layer 3, as shown in FIG. 11(d).
The suspension board with circuit, prevalent nowadays as the so-called Flying Lead, is formed to have terminals 5 formed on both sides of the conductive layer 3, rather than in only either side thereof, in order to meet the demand of recent years for electronic equipment to have increasingly higher density and reduced size.
Conventionally, the terminals 5 of the suspension board with circuit are formed on both sides of the conductive layer 3 in the following manner. First, the cover layer 4 is formed and simultaneously opened by use of a photo-resist and the like to form a first opening 7 for forming the terminal 5 in the cover layer 4 and expose a front side of the conductive layer 3, as shown in FIG. 11(a). Then, a second opening 8 for the terminal 5 to be formed in the supporting board 1 is formed in the supporting board 1 by a chemical etching and the like, as shown in FIG. 11(b). Sequentially, with the supporting board 1 as a mask, the base layer 2 exposed in the second opening 8 is opened by a plasma etching and the like, to form a third opening 9 for the terminal 5 to be formed in the base layer 2, so that a back side of the conductive layer 3 is exposed, as shown in FIG. 11(c). Thereafter, metal plated layers 6 are formed on both sides of the conductive layer 3 thus exposed, as shown in FIG. 11(d).
The metal plated layer 6 thus formed extends over the whole area of the conductive layer 3 exposed in the whole area of the third opening 9 in the base layer 2 formed by using the supporting board 1 as the mask, without leaving any space between the periphery of the metal plated layer 6 and the periphery of the third opening 9 in the base layer 2. As a result of this, the metal plated layer 6 formed in the second opening 8 also extends in the thickness direction thereof, without leaving any space between the periphery of the metal plated layer 6 and the periphery of the second opening 8 in the supporting board 1. Due to this, depending on thickness of the metal plated layer 6 formed, the metal plated layer 6 can contact the periphery of the opening 8 in the supporting board 1 to cause a short circuit from the contact between the metal plated layer 6 and the supporting board 1.
In practice, since the third opening 9 in the base layer 2 is formed with the second opening 8 of the supporting board 1 as the mask, the third opening 9 is sometimes made slightly larger than the second opening 8 in the supporting board 1, as shown in FIG. 11(d). This increases the risk of a short circuit being caused from contact between the metal plated layer 6 and the supporting board 1.
It is the object of the invention to provide a wired circuit board capable of surely preventing occurrence of a short circuit between a metal terminal layer and a metal supporting layer with a simple construction, to provide improvement in connection reliability and in voltage proof property.
The present invention is directed to a novel wired circuit board comprising an insulating layer formed on a metal supporting layer, a conductive layer formed on the insulating layer, a surface of the conductive layer being exposed by opening the metal supporting layer and the insulating layer, and a metal terminal layer formed on the conductive layer exposed in the openings of the metal supporting layer and the insulating layer, wherein a specified space is defined between a periphery of the metal terminal layer and a periphery of the opening of the metal supporting layer.
With this construction, since the specified space is defined between the periphery of the metal terminal layer and the periphery of the opening of the metal supporting layer, contact between the periphery of the metal terminal layer and the periphery of the opening of the metal supporting layer can be surely prevented. This can surely prevent occurrence of a short circuit caused from the contact therebetween, thus providing improved connection reliability and voltage proof property of the suspension board with circuit.
It is preferable that the conductive layer has a terminal forming portion for forming the metal terminal layer and the terminal forming portion is hollowed toward the metal supporting layer with respect to the remaining portions of the conductive layer.
With this construction, the distance from the front side of the metal supporting layer to the front side of the metal terminal layer is shortened to an extent corresponding to the hollowed portion from the remaining portion and, as a result of this, the metal terminal layer is placed closer to the outside of the metal supporting layer to that extent. This can produce the effect that for example when the connecting terminals of an external circuit are connected with the metal terminal layers in such a manner that those connecting terminals are laid over the metal terminal layers and are bonded to each other via supersonic vibration of a bonding tool, the pressure bonding can be well ensured, thus providing further improved connection reliability.
The wired circuit board of the present invention can be used as a suspension board with circuit.
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The present invention is in the field of kinase proteins that are related to the MAP/extracellular signal-regulated kinase subfamily, recombinant DNA molecules, and protein production. The present invention specifically provides novel peptides and proteins that effect protein phosphorylation and nucleic acid molecules encoding such peptide and protein molecules, all of which are useful in the development of human therapeutics and diagnostic compositions and methods.
Protein Kinases
Kinases regulate many different cell proliferation, differentiation, and signaling processes by adding phosphate groups to proteins. Uncontrolled signaling has been implicated in a variety of disease conditions including inflammation, cancer, arteriosclerosis, and psoriasis. Reversible protein phosphorylation is the main strategy for controlling activities of eukaryotic cells. It is estimated that more than 1000 of the 10,000 proteins active in a typical mammalian cell are phosphorylated. The high energy phosphate, which drives activation, is generally transferred from adenosine triphosphate molecules (ATP) to a particular protein by protein kinases and removed from that protein by protein phosphatases. Phosphorylation occurs in response to extracellular signals (hormones, neurotransmitters, growth and differentiation factors, etc), cell cycle checkpoints, and environmental or nutritional stresses and is roughly analogous to turning on a molecular switch. When the switch goes on, the appropriate protein kinase activates a metabolic enzyme, regulatory protein, receptor, cytoskeletal protein, ion channel or pump, or transcription factor.
The kinases comprise the largest known protein group, a superfamily of enzymes with widely varied functions and specificities. They are usually named after their substrate, their regulatory molecules, or some aspect of a mutant phenotype. With regard to substrates, the protein kinases may be roughly divided into two groups; those that phosphorylate tyrosine residues (protein tyrosine kinases, PTK) and those that phosphorylate serine or threonine residues (serine/threonine kinases, STK). A few protein kinases have dual specificity and phosphorylate threonine and tyrosine residues. Almost all kinases contain a similar 250-300 amino acid catalytic domain. The N-terminal domain, which contains subdomains I-IV, generally folds into a two-lobed structure, which binds and orients the ATP (or GTP) donor molecule. The larger C terminal lobe, which contains subdomains VI A-XI, binds the protein substrate and carries out the transfer of the gamma phosphate from ATP to the hydroxyl group of a serine, threonine, or tyrosine residue. Subdomain V spans the two lobes.
The kinases may be categorized into families by the different amino acid sequences (generally between 5 and 100 residues) located on either side of, or inserted into loops of, the kinase domain. These added amino acid sequences allow the regulation of each kinase as it recognizes and interacts with its target protein. The primary structure of the kinase domains is conserved and can be further subdivided into 11 subdomains. Each of the 11 subdomains contains specific residues and motifs or patterns of amino acids that are characteristic of that subdomain and are highly conserved (Hardie, G. and Hanks, S. (1995) The Protein Kinase Facts Books, Vol 1:7-20 Academic Press, San Diego, Calif.).
The second messenger dependent protein kinases primarily mediate the effects of second messengers such as cyclic AMP (cAMP), cyclic GMP, inositol triphosphate, phosphatidylinositol, 3,4,5-triphosphate, cyclic-ADPribose, arachidonic acid, diacylglycerol and calcium-calmodulin. The cyclic-AMP dependent protein kinases (PKA) are important members of the STK family. Cyclic-AMP is an intracellular mediator of hormone action in all prokaryotic and animal cells that have been studied. Such hormone-induced cellular responses include thyroid hormone secretion, cortisol secretion, progesterone secretion, glycogen breakdown, bone resorption, and regulation of heart rate and force of heart muscle contraction. PKA is found in all animal cells and is thought to account for the effects of cyclic-AMP in most of these cells. Altered PKA expression is implicated in a variety of disorders and diseases including cancer, thyroid disorders, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease (Isselbacher, K. J. et al. (1994) Harrison""s Principles of Internal Medicine, McGraw-Hill, New York, N.Y., pp. 416-431, 1887).
Calcium-calmodulin (CaM) dependent protein kinases are also members of STK family. Calmodulin is a calcium receptor that mediates many calcium regulated processes by binding to target proteins in response to the binding of calcium. The principle target protein in these processes is CaM dependent protein kinases. CaM-kinases are involved in regulation of smooth muscle contraction (MLC kinase), glycogen breakdown (phosphorylase kinase), and neurotransmission (CaM kinase I and CaM kinase II). CaM kinase I phosphorylates a variety of substrates including the neurotransmitter related proteins synapsin I and II, the gene transcription regulator, CREB, and the cystic fibrosis conductance regulator protein, CFTR (Haribabu, B. et al. (1995) EMBO Journal 14:3679-86). CaM II kinase also phosphorylates synapsin at different sites, and controls the synthesis of catecholamines in the brain through phosphorylation and activation of tyrosine hydroxylase. Many of the CaM kinases are activated by phosphorylation in addition to binding to CaM. The kinase may autophosphorylate itself, or be phosphorylated by another kinase as part of a xe2x80x9ckinase cascadexe2x80x9d.
Another ligand-activated protein kinase is 5xe2x80x2-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) (Gao, G. et al. (1996) J. Biol Chem. 15:8675-81). Mammalian AMPK is a regulator of fatty acid and sterol synthesis through phosphorylation of the enzymes acetyl-CoA carboxylase and hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase and mediates responses of these pathways to cellular stresses such as heat shock and depletion of glucose and ATP. AMPK is a heterotrimeric complex comprised of a catalytic alpha subunit and two non-catalytic beta and gamma subunits that are believed to regulate the activity of the alpha subunit. Subunits of AMPK have a much wider distribution in non-lipogenic tissues such as brain, heart, spleen, and lung than expected. This distribution suggests that its role may extend beyond regulation of lipid metabolism alone.
PRK (proliferation-related kinase) is a serum/cytokine inducible STK that is involved in regulation of the cell cycle and cell proliferation in human megakaroytic cells (Li, B. et al. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271:19402-8). PRK is related to the polo (derived from humans polo gene) family of STKs implicated in cell division. PRK is downregulated in lung tumor tissue and may be a proto-oncogene whose deregulated expression in normal tissue leads to oncogenic transformation.
The cyclin-dependent protein kinases (CDKs) are another group of STKs that control the progression of cells through the cell cycle. Cyclins are small regulatory proteins that act by binding to and activating CDKs that then trigger various phases of the cell cycle by phosphorylating and activating selected proteins involved in the mitotic process. CDKs are unique in that they require multiple inputs to become activated. In addition to the binding of cyclin, CDK activation requires the phosphorylation of a specific threonine residue and the dephosphorylation of a specific tyrosine residue.
Protein tyrosine kinases, PTKs, specifically phosphorylate tyrosine residues on their target proteins and may be divided into transmembrane, receptor PTKs and nontransmembrane, non-receptor PTKs. Transmembrane protein-tyrosine kinases are receptors for most growth factors. Binding of growth factor to the receptor activates the transfer of a phosphate group from ATP to selected tyrosine side chains of the receptor and other specific proteins. Growth factors (GF) associated with receptor PTKs include; epidermal GF, platelet-derived GF, fibroblast GF, hepatocyte GF, insulin and insulin-like GFs, nerve GF, vascular endothelial GF, and macrophage colony stimulating factor.
Non-receptor PTKs lack transmembrane regions and, instead, form complexes with the intracellular regions of cell surface receptors. Such receptors that function through non-receptor PTKs include those for cytokines, hormones (growth hormone and prolactin) and antigen-specific receptors on T and B lymphocytes.
Many of these PTKs were first identified as the products of mutant oncogenes in cancer cells where their activation was no longer subject to normal cellular controls. In fact, about one third of the known oncogenes encode PTKs, and it is well known that cellular transformation (oncogenesis) is often accompanied by increased tyrosine phosphorylation activity (Carbonneau H and Tonks N K (1992) Annu. Rev. Cell. Biol. 8:463-93). Regulation of PTK activity may therefore be an important strategy in controlling some types of cancer.
Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinases (ERKs)/Mitogen-Activated Protein (MAP) Kinases
The protein provided by the present invention is a novel human mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, also referred to as extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs). The MAP kinases are members of the STK family. MAP kinases regulate numerous cellular signaling pathways and mediate signal transduction from the cell surface to the nucleus via phosphorylation cascades. Several subgroups have been identified, and each manifests different substrate specificities and responds to distinct extracellular stimuli (Egan, S. E. and Weinberg, R. A. (1993) Nature 365:781-783). MAP kinase signaling pathways are present in mammalian cells as well as in yeast. The extracellular stimuli that activate mammalian pathways include epidermal growth factor (EGF), ultraviolet light, hyperosmolar medium, heat shock, endotoxic lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-1 (IL-1). Altered MAP kinase expression is implicated in a variety of disease conditions including cancer, inflammation, immune disorders, and disorders affecting growth and development.
MAP kinases may be the central integration point for numerous biochemical signals because they are activated by a wide variety of extracellular signals, are highly phosphorylated at threonine and tyrosine residues, and are highly conserved between species (Crews et al., Science 258: 478-480, 1992).
MEK1 and MEK2 are also ERKs/MAP kinases. Constitutive activation of MEK1 causes cellular transformation and therefore MEK1 is an ideal drug target for treating proliferative diseases. Furthermore, inhibition of MEK1 results in up to 80% reduction in colon carcinoma tumor growth, with no toxic side effects (Sebolt-Leopold et al., Nature Med. 5: 810-816, 1999). Thus, inhibitors of MEK and other ERKs/MAP kinases are useful as safe, effective treatments for cancers such as colon cancer.
The ERK protein provided by the present invention shows a high degree of structural similarity to ERK7. ERK7 is constitutively active in serum-starved cells, and this activity is dependent on the presence of a C-terminal tail, which regulates the nuclear localization and growth inhibiting functions of ERK7. ERK7 therefore represents a novel type of MAP kinase characterized by the importance of interactions via its C-terminal tail, rather than extracellular signal-mediated activation cascades, in regulating its activity, localization, and function (Abe et al., Mol Cell Biol 1999 Feb;19(2):1301-12).
For a further review of ERKs/MAP kinases, see Crews et al., Science 258: 478-480, 1992; Orth et al., Science 285: 1920-1923, 1999; Rampoldi et al., Cytogenet. Cell Genet. 78: 301-303, 1997; Ryan et al., Nature 404: 892-897, 2000; Sebolt-Leopold et al., Nature Med. 5: 810-816, 1999; Seger et al., FASEB J. 9: 726-735, 1995; Seger et al., J. Biol. Chem. 267:25628-25631, 1992; and Zheng et al., J. Biol. Chem. 268: 11435-11439, 1993.
Kinase proteins, particularly members of the MAP/extracellular signal-regulated kinase subfamily, are a major target for drug action and development. Accordingly, it is valuable to the field of pharmaceutical development to identify and characterize previously unknown members of this subfamily of kinase proteins. The present invention advances the state of the art by providing previously unidentified human kinase proteins that have homology to members of the MAP/extracellular signal-regulated kinase subfamily.
The present invention is based in part on the identification of amino acid sequences of human kinase peptides and proteins that are related to the MAP/extracellular signal-regulated kinase subfamily, as well as allelic variants and other mammalian orthologs thereof. These unique peptide sequences, and nucleic acid sequences that encode these peptides, can be used as models for the development of human therapeutic targets, aid in the identification of therapeutic proteins, and serve as targets for the development of human therapeutic agents that modulate kinase activity in cells and tissues that express the kinase. Experimental data as provided in FIG. 1 indicates expression in humans in the larynx, kidney (adult and fetal), pancreas, fetal heart, uterus, and prostate.
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This invention relates to cartons. More particularly, this invention relates to a dispenser system for beverage and non-beverage container cartons.
Packages or cartons particularly adapted for use with containers, e.g., cans or bottles, are very well known to the prior art in the marketing of beer, soft drinks and non-beverage items. The typical carton packages a series of containers in a 2×3, 2×6, 3×4 matrix or other configuration, and is fabricated from paperboard. Often such cartons are sized to hold six, eight or twelve or even twenty-four containers for purchase by the retail consumer at grocery stores or specialty markets. Such paperboard container cartons or packages have seen widespread commercial success in the marketplace.
Fully enclosed cartons capable of enclosing containers have been used in the past and include a feature for dispensing the containers one at a time. Dispensers have been provided at various locations on these cartons depending on the design. Many of these dispensers suffer from the disadvantage that once open, they allow all of the containers to roll out. In addition, it is difficult to carry one of these cartons without the containers falling out once the dispenser has been opened. Many of these dispensers have been designed for dispensing cans or bottles which have cylindrical shapes with tops and bottoms of substantially the same size and configuration.
In effect, many of these dispensers destroy the overall carton integrity once they have been opened. Many of these dispensers do not have any means for the easy opening of the dispenser for dispensing the containers inside the carton one at a time. Furthermore, many dispensers are not set up so that the containers inside the carton roll into position for dispensing once a previous container has been removed from the carton.
A basic carton dispenser system is defined by one or more of the carton's paperboard walls, and includes a flap tear out structure of some kind or another which opens the carton only partially so that one or more, but not all, the containers may be removed in sequence as desired by the end user. One specific type of prior art carton dispenser system, and one that has seen widespread commercial use in the marketplace, is that which allows the beverage containers to be drawn out from a top or bottom forward corner of the container carton when it is stored in a refrigerator. This prior art dispenser system involves a tear out mouth in the front top or bottom corner of the container carton which extends across the width of the carton's forward end wall, and which allows the beverage container to be gripped by a user's fingers so that it can be drawn out of the carton's mouth.
The prior art dispenser systems have several disadvantages. First, and as noted, when the first container of a carton is removed from the carton's transverse mouth there is a substantial weight which bears on the next container that rolls forward for removal. And sometimes, other containers will unintentionally roll out after a first container has been removed. When subsequent containers roll out on their own against the user's desire, some may fall to the floor which could cause a safety problem. But in any event, whatever containers undesirably roll out must be returned to the carton or to the storage location, e.g., the refrigerator, with the accompanying frustration or displeasure that such an event causes.
Second, once the carton dispenser system is opened with a carton dispenser system of the transverse mouth type as described above, the closure integrity of the carton is immediately destroyed. In other words, and once the carton's transverse mouth has been opened, from a realistic standpoint it may be no longer possible to carry the carton with full containers therein by whatever handle structure is provided on the carton. This for the simple reason that in carrying the open mouth carton, the full beverage containers remaining therein may roll out the open mouth against the user's desire.
And thirdly, with a prior art carton having the transverse end mouth dispenser system as described above, the carton can be oriented only on its bottom wall in order to withdraw full containers through the carton's discharge mouth. Such prior art cartons often are of rectangular configuration, and it may be desirable to stand the carton on its end wall (which is normally of lesser length than its bottom wall) in order to save space in the environment such as a refrigerator, within which the carton is stored. But this is not possible with the prior art cartons because the opened transverse mouth would not be readily accessible to the carton's user, and containers could not be readily withdrawn therefrom if the prior art carton was stood on that end wall within which the transverse mouth was defined.
Accordingly, it has been one objective of this invention has been to provide a carton dispenser system particularly adapted for use with beverage and non-beverage containers that allows individual containers within the carton's container matrix stored to be withdrawn from that carton one at a time through a dispenser opening which maintains the structural integrity of the carton.
Another objective of this invention has been to provide a carton dispenser system particularly adapted for use with containers which may not have a pronounced crown or tapered edge such as is commonly provided on beverage containers. The dispenser allowing individual containers within the carton's container matrix stored to be withdrawn from that carton one at a time through a dispenser opening which maintains the structural integrity of the carton.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to board-to-board connectors.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, board-to-board connectors may be used to electrically connect two parallel circuit boards together. Such board-to-board connectors are configured as a mating pair of connectors each of which are attached to and project from mutually facing surfaces of two circuit boards.
FIG. 6 is a cross section of one such conventional board-to-board connector. Reference numeral 301 denotes a first connector that is mounted on a first circuit board (not shown). The first connector 301 is mated and connected with a second connector (not shown) that is mounted on a second circuit board (not shown), whereby the conductive circuits on the first and second circuit boards are electrically connected to each other. The first connector 301 includes a plurality of terminals 302 that engage counterpart terminals of the second connector.
Each of the terminals 302 has a retention portion 308 secured to an inner surface of the housing of the first connector 301 and an intermediate portion 303 connected to the retention portion 308 and extending along an outer surface of the housing. The retention portion 308 and the intermediate portion 303 engage a portion of the housing, whereby each terminal 302 is held within the first connector 301. A retention barb 309 is formed on the retention portion 308. The retention barb 309 bites or skives into the housing which increases the force holding the terminal 302 within the housing. A tail portion 304 of the terminal 302 is soldered to a corresponding conductive circuit on the surface of the first circuit board.
A contact beam 305 is connected to the retention portion 308, and extends in a direction away from the intermediate portion 303. The contact beam 305 has a generally L-shape, and includes a contact projection 306 formed at its end. When the first connector 301 is mated with the second connector (not shown), the counterpart terminals of the second connector enter recess portions 307 of the first connector 301 and the contact projection 306 of each first terminal comes into contact with a contact portion of the corresponding counterpart terminal of each second connector, whereby the conductive circuits of the first and second circuit boards are electrically connected.
In the conventional board-to-board connector pair, each terminal 302 is fixed to the housing of the first connector 301 by means of the retention portion 308 and the intermediate portion 303. Since the retention portion, from which the contact projection 306 extends, bites or skives into the housing, and the depth of the skiving cannot be easily controlled, the location of the contact projection 306 with respect to the housing may not be located consistently resulting in the first connector having relatively poor dimensional accuracy. More specifically, the inwardly facing surface of recess 307 is used as a reference surface or datum and the contact beam 305 and contact projection 306 are positioned relative thereto. However, since the retention barb skives into the housing along the inwardly facing surface of recess 307 and such skiving may not be consistent, the positioning of barb 308 and thus contact beam 305 and contact projection 306 may not be consistent within the housing. Thus, even if the dimensional accuracy of the contact beam 305 of the terminal 302 were high, the position of the contact beam 305 and the contact projection 306 in relation to the housing is difficult to maintain, which may result in difficulty in properly mating the first connector 301 with the second connector.
Furthermore, when unmating the second connector from the first connector 301, an upward force acts on the contact projection 306. Since this upward force creates a rotational moment on the contact beam 305, it places a force on the retention portion 308 and the retention barb 309 which may separate the terminal from the inwardly facing surface of the corresponding recess portion 307 of the housing and cause the retention barb 309 and the terminal 302 to loosen relative to the housing.
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This application is based on and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. xc2xa7119 with respect to Japanese Patent Application 2000-353197 filed on Nov. 20, 2000, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
This invention generally relates to a hydraulic pressure brake device for a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a hydraulic pressure brake device provided with an assisting device (booster) for assisting the movement of a master cylinder in response to brake pedal operation.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,910,048 discloses a servomotor for use in a power braking system. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the servomotor 12 is provided with a pressure ratio changer. The servomotor 12 is further provided with a first piston 58 and a second piston 60 for transmitting an operative force to a master cylinder. The first piston 58 is connected to a wall 28 moved by a pressure differential. The second piston 60 is coaxially disposed within the first piston 58 and serves to transmit the input force which drives a control valve 71 for producing the pressure differential. The second piston 60 also operates a hydraulic lock valve 118 disposed within the master cylinder. When the first and second pistons 58, 60 are moved together in response to the movement of the wall 28, fluid is introduced into a lock chamber 114 via the lock valve 118. When the output force generated by the pressure differential reaches the maximum level, the simultaneous movement of the first and second pistons 58, 60 ceases. Further manual force input by the operator will move the second piston 60 disposed within the first piston 58 to close the lock valve 118 and hold the hydraulic fluid within the lock chamber 114 to prevent the first piston 58 from moving.
More particularly, when the first and second pistons 58, 60 are moved forward, hydraulic pressure is generated in each hydraulic pressure chamber 112, 146. The output from the first and second pistons 58, 60 follows a line 188 (shown in FIG. 5) until a second chamber 32 in the servomotor 12 reaches the atmospheric pressure level. At point 190 in FIG. 5, the input force from a brake pedal 20 is transmitted via a plunger 70 and a sleeve 66 to the second piston 60, wherein the second piston 60 is independently moved and a spring 130 is permitted to close a fluid passage 120. When the second piston 60 is further moved under the above-described condition, the output follows the line 192 in FIG. 5.
In the event the vacuum is unavailable, the second piston 60 is moved within the first piston 58 in response to the input force applied to a brake pedal 20, whereby the fluid passage 120 is immediately closed by the valve 118. The output under the above-described condition follows the line 196 in FIG. 5 which shows that a larger output can be generated than the output which can be generated when the first and second pistons 58, 60 are moved simultaneously under no power hydraulic pressure, which is represented by the line 195 in FIG. 5.
According to the servomotor 12 disclosed in the above U.S. Pat. No. 3,910,048, when the increased hydraulic pressure is locked in the lock chamber 114, the output follows the line 192 beyond a point 190 of the input force applied to the brake pedal 20 as shown in FIG. 5. When the assisting device malfunctions, including the case of no negative pressure or vacuum, the output follows the line 196 corresponding to the movement of the second piston 60 disposed within the first piston 58.
To achieve the operation described above, the servomotor 12 requires extensive modifications as compared to known servomotors to assure sufficient movement of the second piston 60 relative to the first piston 58. This may require re-designing the entire hydraulic pressure brake device, thus causing an increase in the cost associated with manufacturing the hydraulic pressure brake device. Further, a large diameter portion of the first piston 58 is slidably and movably disposed in a hydraulic pressure chamber of the master cylinder. The first piston 58 is slidably movable in an inner bore at a rear side of the master cylinder. Therefore, the above-described construction may result in an increase in the resistance by the sliding movement at the slidably moving portion.
Accordingly, the disclosed hydraulic pressure brake device is susceptible of certain improvements with respect to minimizing the required modifications of the assisting device to substantially maintain the master cylinder under a predetermined structure so as to assure desired input/output characteristics when the assisting device malfunctions. A need also exists for a hydraulic pressure brake device which is not as susceptible to difficulties associated with sliding movement at each slidably moving portion to thus improve the brake pedal operation feeling.
A hydraulic pressure brake device includes a master cylinder, a brake operating member, a master piston, a booster, a first auxiliary piston, a pressure transmitting chamber disposed between the first auxiliary piston and the master piston, a valve mechanism, and a second auxiliary piston. The master piston is provided in the master cylinder and is moved forward in response to an input force applied to the brake operating member. The booster is provided between the master cylinder and the brake operating member and assists the movement of the master piston in response to the input force applied to the brake operating member. The first auxiliary piston is disposed behind the master piston in the master cylinder and has a larger effective cross-sectional area than the effective cross-sectional area of the master piston. The valve mechanism is disposed in the first auxiliary piston for hydraulically sealing the pressure transmitting chamber when the movement of the master piston is assisted by the booster and for connecting the pressure transmitting chamber with a reservoir when the movement of the master piston is not assisted by the booster. The second auxiliary piston is disposed between the first auxiliary piston and the booster for transmitting the boosting power generated by the booster to the first auxiliary piston when the movement of the master piston is assisted by the booster, for transmitting the input force applied to the brake operating member to the valve mechanism, and for opening the valve mechanism when the movement of the master piston is not assisted by the booster.
The hydraulic pressure brake device also includes an output member and a rod. The output member is provided in the booster for transmitting the boosting power generated by the booster to the first auxiliary piston when the movement of the master piston is assisted by the booster. The rod is provided in the second auxiliary piston for transmitting the input force applied to the brake operating member to the valve mechanism and for opening the valve mechanism when the movement of the master piston is not assisted by the booster.
According to another aspect of the invention, a hydraulic pressure brake device includes a master cylinder, a brake operating member, a master piston provided in the master cylinder and movable in a forward direction in response to an input force applied to the brake operating member, a vacuum booster provided between the master cylinder and the brake operating member to assist the movement of the master piston in response to the input force applied to the brake operating member, a first auxiliary piston possessing a front portion disposed in the rearward opening bore of the master piston and having a larger effective cross-sectional area than the effective cross-sectional area of the master piston, a pressure transmitting chamber defined between the first auxiliary piston and the master piston, and a valve member disposed in a bore in the first auxiliary piston and engageable with a valve seat when the movement of the master piston is assisted by the vacuum booster to hydraulically seal the pressure transmitting chamber and disengageable from the valve seal when the movement of the master piston is not assisted by the vacuum booster for connecting the pressure transmitting chamber with a reservoir. A second auxiliary piston disposed between the first auxiliary piston and the vacuum booster to transmit the boosting power generated by the vacuum booster to the first auxiliary piston when the movement of the master piston is assisted by the vacuum booster and to transmit the input force applied to the brake operating member to the valve member to disengage the valve member from the valve seat when the movement of the master piston is not assisted by the vacuum booster.
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Power driven wheel chairs enable persons who must use such conveyances greater freedom of movement. This is particularly apparent in relation to use out of doors. Power driven wheel chairs can go across uneven terrain that a hand propelled wheel chair could not possibly manage.
It is difficult for a power driven wheel chair to maintain all its wheels on the ground when stepping over obstacles. When one of the front wheels of a wheel chair climbs an obstacle, it tends to lift the rear wheel on the same side. When one of the front wheels of a wheel chair descends an obstacle, it tends to lift the rear wheel on the opposite side. These tendencies adversely effect the traction of the rear wheels, and the overall stability of the wheel chair.
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1. Field of the Disclosure
The present disclosure relates generally to an electronic device, and more particularly, to a beamforming control method and an electronic device for controlling beamforming.
2. Description of the Related Art
With the rapid growth of the smart phone market, various electronic devices are equipped with all or some of the features of the smart phone.
As the multimedia capabilities of the smart phone have been enhanced, multiple microphones may be mounted in the device. For example, two or more microphones may be mounted in the smart phone. By using these multiple microphones, the user may use multiple recording techniques in the smart phone.
Beamforming, which is based on multiple microphones, is configured for determining a sound receiving range for receiving a sound in a specific direction from an electronic device.
Generally, beamforming technology having a fixed sound receiving range is widely used, and the smart phone may record (or output) the sound in a predetermined range having the directional characteristics, and the smart phone may exclude the sound received in the other ranges from the recording (or the outputting). Examples of the fixed-beamforming technology may include minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) and linearly constrained minimum variance (LCMV) methods, and when a beam is formed (or generated), the beamforming direction may be typically configured in a radial manner on the basis of the front (0°-direction) or rear (180°-direction) of the electronic device. For example, depending on the number of multiple microphones, the radial width may be narrower and/or the performance of the electronic device may be improved.
On the other hand, the location of a speaker (or a talker) may be tracked using direction-of-arrival (DOA) technology, which is for detecting the direction in which waves arrive from any one point, using multiple microphone sensors; this sensor configuration is referred to as a sensor array, and is presently used in conjunction with beamforming technology for estimating a signal in a predetermined direction.
As described above, the fixed-beamforming technology may control the beamforming direction during use thereof, and may ensure the stable performance.
However, the fixed-beamforming technology may be disadvantageous in that the direction of a beam (e.g., the direction of beamforming, or the direction of a received sound) is fixed. In order to perform beamforming for a speaker moving in an arbitrary direction, it is necessary to use an adaptive filter, or to find a beamformer filter in real time and apply the beamformer filter to each of received signals, causing an increase in the computation and the power consumption. For the adaptive beamforming technology based on the adaptive filter, its physical implementation is not easy, and the filter adaptation may not operate normally in the actual beamforming environment.
In a case where the orientation of the fixed beamformer is changed in real time, the amount of required computation may be very large, resulting in the difficulty of its real-time implementation. For example, the performance of beamforming tracking for a fast-moving speaker may not be guaranteed.
The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the present disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the present disclosure.
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a method of controlling hemp sesbania by infection with a fungal pathogen, Colletotrichum truncatum.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Hemp sesbania (Sesbania exaltata) is an economically troublesome weed in soybean production on aluvial clay soils of the lower Mississippi River Valley [McWhorter et al., Weed Science, Vol. 27 (1979), pp. 58-63]. It can cause crop yield reductions by competing for nutrients and water, and by shading the crop plants. It can also reduce crop quality by increasing the amount of foreign material and moisture in harvested beans and by increasing the number of damaged kernels. This weed is also a threat in cotton and rice production.
The procedures for using pathogens to control weeds in annual crops have been described previously for various fungal species. Daniel et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,849,104, teaches the use of an endemic anthracnose fungus, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides forma specialis aeschynomene, to control the northern jointvetch weed in rice fields. A related species, C. malvarum, has been reported by Templeton in U.S. Pat. No. 3,999,973 as a control for prickly sida (Sida spinosa L.) or teaweed, particularly in soybean and cotton fields. C. malvarum is also pathogenic toward other noncultivated species, including velvetleaf. C. coccodes has been well documented as a widely distributed pathogen of potato and tomato, as well as 35 other plant species throughout the world. One isolate of C. coccodes has been studied as a potential mycoherbicide for velvetleaf by Gotlief et al. [Proceedings, Weed Science Society of America, Vol. 37 (1984), p. 68]. Anderson et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,715,881, disclose the use of a strain of C. coccodes as a selective pathogen toward eastern black nightshade.
Walker [Weed Science, Vol. 29 (1981), pp. 505-507] discloses the use of Alternaria macrospora as a pathogen against spurred anoda. In Walker, U.S. Pat. No. 4,390,360, A. cassiae is disclosed as an effective biological control agent for sicklepod, showy crotalaria, and coffee senna. Finally, Walker teaches in U.S. Pat. No. 4,419,120 that Fusarium lateritium is useful in controlling prickly sida, velvetleaf, and spurred anoda.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a separate-function type of electrophotographic photosensitive member that has at least a charge generation layer and a charge transport layer. Particularly the invention is directed to an electrophotographic photosensitive member improved in repeated-operational characteristics, in other words, performance characteristics for continuously repeated service.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Practical use of electrophotographic photosensitive layers comprising organic photoconductive material is difficult because it is less sensitive than selenium or cadmium sulfide, but has been realized recently by achieving a high sensitivity with a separate-functional type of photosensitive layer that is a charge generation layer-charge transport layer laminate.
Charge-transporting materials in use for the charge transport layers are, for example, hydrazone compounds as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,150,987 and 4,391,889 and U.K. Patent Application Publication No. 2,034,493, pyrazoline compounds as described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,824,099, and styrylanthracene compounds. Charge transport layers are formed by applying charge-transporting materials dissolved in a resin solution, since charge transporting materials are generally low molecular compounds deficient in film-forming property. Such resins include, for example, polycarbonate, polymethacrylate, polyarylate, polystyrene, polyester, polysulfone, styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer, and styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymer.
Of these resin materials, those radical-polymerized in solution contain large amounts of unreacted monomer, polymerization initiator, etc. even after completion of the polymerization. Polymer components of very low molecular weights like oligomers are also contained in such resin materials. It has been found that, when a charge transport layer is formed by using a resin which contains such non-macromolecular components as mentioned above, these components have unfavorable effects on electrophotographic characteristics of the resulting photosensitive member. According to experiments conducted by the present inventors, the above components tend to cause, in particular, phenomena such as instability of the potential, deterioration of the sensitivity, and increased optical hysteresis, i.e. increase in so-called photomemory, during repeated operations of the photosensitive member.
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This invention relates to a message transmission system and more particularly, to a system for the secure transmission of multi-block data messages from a sending station to a receiving station.
Present-day data processing systems are increasing in complexity and may include networks involving a host processor or processors connected to local terminals of I/O devices which, in some instances, may involve long cable connections, and/or via communication lines to remote terminals or remote subsystems which, in turn, may likewise be connected onward to local or remote terminals or I/O devices. Furthermore, many of the terminals and/or I/O devices may have removeable storage media associated therewith. Because of the potential accessibility of the communication lines, the long cable connections and the removable storage media, there is increasing concern over the interception or alteration of data during message transmissions within the networks of the data processing system. Cryptography has been recognized as one type of process for achieving data security and privacy of such data transmissions in that it protects the data itself rather than the data transmitting medium.
Various cryptographic arrangements have been developed in the prior art for maintaining the security and privacy of data transmissions between a sending station and a receiving station. Block ciphering is one such arrangement by which a block cipher device, operating in a ciphering cycle of operation, ciphers a block of data bits under control of a set of cipher key bits. In data message transmission systems where block ciphering is used, the block cryptographic apparatus of the sending station ciphers an input block of data bits under control of the set of cipher key bits to produce an output block of unintelligible ciphered data bits which cannot be understood without knowledge of the cipher key. The resulting output block of ciphered data bits is then transmitted to the receiving station where the block cryptographic apparatus of the receiving station deciphers the output block of ciphered data bits under control of the same set of cipher key bits in inverse fashion to that of the enciphering process to produce the original input block of data bits. Examples of block ciphering are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,798,359 issued March 19, 1974 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 552,685 commonly assigned to the same assignee as the present application.
In block ciphering, each data bit of the output block is a complex function of all the data bits of the input block and the set of cipher key bits. Consequently, any change of a single input data bit affects all output data bits. This property of block ciphering permits the inclusion of an authentication field in the input block of data bits which may be used for verification of data transmission between the sending station and a receiving station. One such approach taken in the prior art is to include a password with the input block of data bits to be transmitted from the sending station to the receiving station. The input block of data bits is then ciphered by means of block cryptographic apparatus at the sending station and the resulting output block of ciphered data bits is then transmitted to the receiving station. At the receiving station, the received output block of ciphered data bits is deciphered by means of block cryptographic apparatus. If the communication is uncorrupted, then the deciphered block of data bits will be identical to the original input block of data bits. If the receiving station has a copy of the password, then it may be matched against the deciphered password to verify the block transmission. Examples of this technique are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,798,360 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,798,605, both issued Mar. 19, 1974.
In such an arrangement where multiple blocks of data bits are to be transmitted between the sending station and the receiving station, the successive input blocks of data bits are block ciphered by the block cryptographic apparatus of the sending station, operating in successive cycles of operation under control of the same set of cipher key bits, to produce successive output blocks of ciphered data bits. The output message of the sending station is then transmitted to the receiving station where the block cryptographic apparatus of the receiving station, operating in successive cycles of operation under control of the same set of cipher key bits in inverse fashion to produce the original multiple blocks of data bits. Any change of a single data bit in any block of the output message transmitted to the receiving station, while still affecting all the deciphered data bits of the corresponding deciphered block of data bits, will have no effect on any of the other deciphered blocks of the data message. As a result, to verify the entire message transmission, it is necessary to include a password with each block of data bits transmitted from the sending station to the receiving station. Because of the necessity of including a password with each transmitted block of data bits, the throughput efficiency of the system is degraded.
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1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to fluorometers, instruments for measuring wavelength and intensity of fluorescence. More particularly, the invention relates to a multiple protocol fluorometer (MPF) for measuring photosynthetic parameters of phytoplankton and higher plants using an actively stimulated fluorescence signal.
2. Description of the Related Art
Measurement of photosynthetic activity that occurs in photosynthetic organisms such as phytoplankton or higher plants is important in understanding the basic physiology of phytoplankton and higher plants, as well as to ecological studies of environmental stress. In ocean studies, for instance, characterization of photosynthesis of phytoplankton is useful in (i) understanding the ocean carbon cycle, (ii) predicting how climate-induced changes in ocean circulation, as well as, anthropogenic perturbation affect ocean productivity, and vice versa, and (iii) understanding how oceans can mediate climate change.
Furthermore, in terrestrial applications, measurements of photosynthetic parameters can be used to (i) assess effects of the environmental factors (nutrients limitation, drought, temperature) on plants' physiological performance, (ii) select and evaluate crop strains with respect to resistance to natural and anthropogenic stresses, (iii) assess physiological response of plants to contamination insults (chemicals, heavy metals, low level radioactive wastes), and (iv) evaluate the efficacy of remediation efforts with respect to restoring the ecological status of contamination threatened ecosystems.
Assessment of photosynthesis by photosynthetic organisms requires either a direct measurement or an indirect approach based on measurement of photosynthetic parameters. Direct measurements of photosynthesis of phytoplankton or higher plants include those of CO.sub.2 exchange, O.sub.2 evolution, or radioactive labelled carbon incorporation (i.e., .sup.14 C method). However, these measurements are laborious, time consuming, and not applicable in certain conditions. In studying phytoplankton, for example, the .sup.14 C measurement method requires an incubation and can be done only for discrete, bottled samples. Further, accuracy in photosynthesis measurements of phytoplankton in laboratory settings are limited as a result of removal of the phytoplankton from its normal ambient nutrient flux, and laboratory simulation of ambient light and temperature conditions. In terrestrial applications, where the CO.sub.2 exchange method is the only applicable measurement, extensive sample manipulations are required, resulting in a measurement process that itself modifies the investigated photosynthetic parameters.
Indirect measurements of photosynthesis, based on a functional relationship between photosynthetic activity and fluorescence, have proven to be more successful. Such indirect measurement methods include both passive fluorescence and active fluorescence techniques.
Passive fluorescence techniques are flawed by an assumption that the ratio of the photosynthetic to fluorescence yield is constant. In nature, this ratio can vary by as much as 10:1, making the passive fluorescence based estimates of photosynthesis unreliable. More detailed measurement and study of photosynthetic processes, such as light absorption, primary photochemistry, and electron transport between so-called Photosystem II (PSII), and Photosystem I (PSI), are not possible with passive fluorescence techniques.
Active fluorescence techniques, on the other hand, are based on flash stimulated fluorescence. An example employing an active fluorescence technique, is disclosed in Moll, U.S. Pat. No. 4,650,336, which describes a method and device for measuring photosynthesis, specifically variable fluorescence of plants. Variable fluorescence is measured as the difference between a low level, steady state fluorescence and a higher level of a fluorescent transient. The fluorometer device of Moll has one lamp to provide constant-level light to bring about continuous, steady state fluorescence of a plant, and a flash lamp to provide a flash of light (excitation energy) to bring about a transient fluorescence of the plant. The device and method of Moll utilize the second flash lamp to produce either a single flash, or series of flashes at a slow repetition rate, approximately one hundred (100) Hz. At 100 Hz, however, the flash rate is too slow to effectively measure the photosynthetic processes occurring in photosynthetic organisms.
Another active fluorescence technique is described in Kolber et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,942,303 (Kolber I), the contents of which are incorporated, in its entirety, by reference herein. The technique described in Kolber I enables a more detailed measurement of photosynthesis. Specifically, the technique involves use of "pump and probe" flashes for measuring the change in fluorescence of phytoplankton or higher plants. A relatively low intensity probe flash is followed quickly by a pump flash that is usually made intense enough to saturate PSII.
Kolber I also discloses a computer controlled fluorometer device and method that measures photosynthesis by monitoring and recording changes in fluorescence produced by a computer controlled series of cycles of probe and pump flashes. From these measurements, various photosynthetic parameters can be determined and incorporated into a mechanistic model of photochemistry based on the kinetics of electron flow between PSII and PSI.
The pump and probe technique, although very successful in measuring the photosynthesis occurring in phytoplankton or higher plants, has the following operational limitations:
1. In order to measure the absorption cross-section and the rate of electron flow from PSII to PSI the pump and probe fluorometer employs a sequence of probe, pump, and probe flashes, repeated up to 30 times, with the intensity of the pump flash changed from zero to a supersaturating level, or with the delay between the pump, and the second probe flash changing from 80 .mu.s to 300 ms. These two protocols require 5 minutes to 10 minutes of fluorometer operation in order to make appropriate measurements. Particularly, when the pump and probe technique is used in a profiling mode for studying phytoplankton in the ocean, where these protocols often have to be executed at every meter of a water column, the time required for making the measurements is prohibitively long.
2. The intensity of the probe flash has to be kept below 1% of the PSII saturation level. This low intensity flash results in a low signal to noise ratio, particularly at low chlorophyll concentrations.
3. The pump and probe fluorometer requires two separate excitation channels (i.e., two flashers) which complicates construction, and increases the cost of the fluorometer.
4. Execution of a full experimental protocol, particularly in studying phytoplankton in the ocean, utilizes a large amount of electrical power. This requirement limits long-term, remote mooring applications where electrical batteries are used to power the fluorometer.
Kolber et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,426,306 (Kolber II), the contents of which are incorporated, in its entirety, by reference herein, discloses a fast repetition rate (FRR) fluorometer that is operable to produce a series of fast repetition rate flashes in the range of 10,000 Hz to 250,000 Hz, and at controlled energies sufficient to gradually and incrementally effect photosynthetic processes occurring in PSII and PSI in phytoplankton or higher plants, for measurement of fluorescence with higher signal to noise ratios relative to the device of Kolber I. The FRR fluorometer of Kolber II, however, has the following disadvantages:
1. The methodology and the instrument disclosed in Kolber II has a limited resolution of the saturation and fluorescence decay, because the flash rate of the xenon flashlamp in the FRR fluorometer is limited to 250 kHz. When there is pre-triggering prior to each flash, the maximum flash rate falls below 10 kHz. Therefore, the FRR fluorometer is incapable of resolving the initial portion of the fluorescence transient that is critical for assessment of the faster photosynthetic processes such as the extent of energy transfer between PSII reaction centers. Due to the same limitation, only the early stage of fluorescence decay can be measured, thus limiting the resolution of the assessed kinetics of electron transport in PSII to a single time constant.
2. The power dissipation by the xenon flashlamp in the FRR fluorometer is excessive and limits the measurement protocols that can be used with the FRR fluorometer. For example, when generating flashes at intervals of 60-100 .mu.s, the xenon plasma must be reheated using about 2 .mu.s-long high current pulse (average 200 A at 400 V), dissipating about 0.16 J of energy per flash. The power rating of xenon flashlamp used in FRR fluorometer is about 15 W, thus limiting the number of flashes to less than 100 flashes. Furthermore, the excessive power dissipation limits long-term, remote mooring applications where electrical batteries are used to power the fluorometer, such as, for example, in a submersible instrument with a dual, self-cleaning chamber, discussed further herein.
3. Assessment of the correct functional absorption cross section, and the correct kinetics of electron transport within PSII and from PSII to PSI requires knowledge of the extent of energy transfer between PSII reaction centers, which cannot be measured with the FRR fluorometer.
4. The FRR fluorometer is incapable of spectrally resolving the functional absorption cross section or the extent of energy transfer between PSII reaction centers.
5. The xenon flashlamp in the FRR fluorometer cannot provide ambient illumination.
6. The xenon flashlamp in the FRR fluorometer is a pulsed light source using high voltage electronics in which large switching currents at high voltages cause a high level of RF noise.
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The present invention is concerned with monitoring conditions at remote chassis or computing stations, and more particularly with systems designed for individual, approximately real-time monitoring of multiple computing stations in an information processing network.
In organizations that depend on the efficient processing and transfer of information, the networking of multiple computers is a common practice. Networking considerably enhances the capacity of each computer on the system, by enabling a rapid transfer of information among the system computers, and by enabling the system computers to share operating programs and other tools used to process system information. As computer networks become increasingly sophisticated and complex, the interdependence among the network computers increases as well, underlining the need for effective monitoring of each chassis or computing station in the network.
In networks that are sufficiently compact, such as those located within a single building or floor of a building, monitoring by direct inspection of the computing stations may be sufficient. Direct inspection can be enhanced by a liquid crystal display (LCD) at each computing station visually indicating status information, or by a visible or audio alarm generated in response to determining fault conditions.
However, in the case of wide area networks (WAN) or networks of computers linked via the Internet, the computing stations of the network typically are separated from one another by distances that render direct inspection costly and inefficient. One known technique for monitoring remote computing stations employs a modem under the control of the computing platform being monitored. However, this involves an added expense of maintaining a telephone connection dedicated to the remote, monitored location, and functions well only when the computer platform being monitored is operative.
A variety of approaches are known for monitoring remote computing devices. U.S. Pat. No. 6,044,476 and No. 5,815,652, issued to Ote, et al., describe a management system for monitoring and controlling the performance of computers on a network in a server system. A server processor board includes a processor independent from the managed computer for monitoring faults in the managed computer and controlling power to the managed computer. A fault detected in the managed computer results in a message sent to the managing computer and a resulting display at the managing computer. The system contemplates coupling to a managing computer either over a local area network (LAN) or a public line.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,411,678 (Tomlinson, Jr., et al.) discloses a diagnostic center and remote stations that form a wide area network (WAN). Each remote station, according to a schedule or responsive to an alarm condition, initiates a telephone communication to a “point-of-presence” server, which can be an internet services provider. Fault data are transferred to the server, and later are retrieved from the server by a diagnostic center. In an alternative approach, the diagnostic center uses a pager to prompt the remote station to initiate the telephone communication.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,703,255 (Nouri, et al.) features a server that includes a self-contained microcontroller network that monitors and manages the physical environment, regardless of the operational status of the server. Software remote from the server allows a system administrator to query the server status, even when the server is down.
The preceding examples notwithstanding, there is a need for a more reliable system for obtaining virtually real-time status information about each chassis or computing station in a multiple computer network. The system should be operable regardless of the specific platforms and operating systems at the individual computing stations, at minimal cost, and with minimal interference with the routine exchange and processing of data throughout the network. Further, the system should be capable of providing status information concerning a chassis or computing station, even in the event of a failure of that chassis or station.
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Field
The present application relates to prosthetic feet and other prosthetic devices including a spring, and more particularly to prosthetic feet and other prosthetic devices having one or more flexible members between two or more joints (e.g., pivots) and allowing for variable stiffness during use.
Description of the Related Art
In the field of prosthetics, particularly prosthetic feet, it is desirable to provide a high level of functionality with reliable performance. Further, as each user is different, it is desirable to provide a prosthesis that can be adapted to the particular needs of each individual user.
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(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention concerns a shift control system of an automatic transmission for a vehicle, and more particularly a shift control system of an automatic transmission for a vehicle, which employs a lay shaft to constitute a power train with three shafts and five speeds.
(2) Description of Prior Art
The automatic transmission carries out a gearshift by means of a transmission control unit (TCU), which controls solenoid valves to regulate the hydraulic pressure flow according to the vehicle speed or the degree of the acceleration pedal being pressed down. It also employs the hydraulic pressure to control the clutches for associating rotational members, and friction elements such as brakes for fixing the rotational elements to change the ratio of the gearshift of a planetary gear system. This is achieved by selecting the input elements for receiving the engine power and the reaction element, which selection is accomplished by the shift control system. Generally, the shift control may be complicated or not according to the procedure to control the friction elements.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to routing data, and more particularly, a method of throttling data flow through a router.
2. Description of Related Art
Excessive data can create overload and outage of a router as seen in the case of a Line Interface Unit (LIU), which is a message router in the cell of a wireless network. Existing overload control schemes treat all data, even data of differing types, the same. As such data is assumed to arrive at a router at a certain rate and get processed at a certain rate. In the more practical case, there are several classes or types of events or data, e.g., different types of messages in the case of message router in the cell of a wireless network. The different types of data tend to arrive at different rates and get processed at different rates. However, by treating different data types the same, the overload control mechanism may indiscriminately shed more important types of data and pass less important types of data. Additionally, a particular type of data may be more responsible for overloading the router than another type of data. As such, treating the different data types the same also means designing the router and overload control mechanisms for the worst case data type. Consequently, even when such overload mechanisms are used, router sizes have to be expanded unnecessarily to accommodate rare case of load surge in order to maintain a desired level of service; thus making the overall system that includes the router very costly.
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1. Technological Field
The present invention relates to a pulse detector and the like.
2. Background Technology
A pulse detector is a device for detecting a pulse originating from a human heartbeat, and is a device for removing as noise a signal component generated by the effects of human body movements from a signal (pulse wave signal) received from a pulse wave sensor worn on, e.g., the arm, palm, finger, or the like to detect a signal (pulse signal) derived from a heartbeat.
A pulse rate meter of a type that is worn on a human finger or wrist is disclosed in, e.g., Patent Documents 1 to 3.
There is also a pulse rate meter equipped with an acceleration sensor, and the pulse rate meter is used as a biological information measuring device provided with an activity meter, a pedometer, or another activity measurement function, an example of which is described in Patent Document 4. The use of such a biological information measuring device allows a measured person to manage his or her own pace distribution during activity, check the number of burned calories after activity, and perform other tasks to ascertain the amount of activity performed.
Patent Document 5 discloses a technique for judging the existence of subject motion on the basis of the output signal of an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor.
Japanese Laid-open Patent Publication No. 2005-198829 (Patent Document 1), Japanese Laid-open Patent Publication No. 2007-54471 (Patent Document 2), Japanese Laid-open Patent Publication No. 2005-131426 (Patent Document 3), Japanese Laid-open Patent Publication No. 2005-211301 (Patent Document 4), and Japanese Laid-open Patent Publication No. 2010-98356 (Patent Document 5) are examples of the related art.
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Typically, ammonium phosphate fertilizers are produced from wet process phosphoric acid. For several years the quality of phosphate rock being mined in Florida has been declining. This is important because wet process phosphoric acid is produced by decomposing natural phosphate rock with sulfuric acid and filtering off the precipitated calcium sulfate. Depending upon the quality of the phosphate rock processed, the resulting crude phosphoric acid solution contains varying amounts of impurities such as iron, aluminum, magnesium, calcium and other metals in the form of their phosphates. The impurities act as diluents during the manufacture of ammoniated phosphate fertilizers and often prevent obtaining the required grade specifications pertaining to nitrogen and available phosphate content. Consequently, the wet process phosphoric acid manufactured from the phosphate rocks has become increasingly impure. As a result, it has become increasingly more difficult to produce and maintain industry acceptable grades of ammonium phosphate fertilizers.
The impurities in the wet process phosphoric acid which cause the greatest problems are primarily iron, aluminum and magnesium phosphate which replace hydrogen ions, thereby leaving fewer hydrogen ions available for ammoniation. Additionally, some of the impurities, primarily iron, form upon ammoniation insoluble phosphate compounds thereby reducing the available P.sub.2 O.sub.5 content of the ammonium phosphate fertilizer.
Tests of the remaining phosphate rock deposits in central Florida indicate that the quality of the rock will decline even further. This will make it even more difficult, if not impossible, to produce the currently acceptable grades of ammonium phosphate fertilizers.
Thus, it is the object of the present invention to provide a process for removing at least a portion of the impurities in wet process phosphoric acid, and thus maintaining the grade of granulated mono- or di-ammonium phosphates at the current acceptable industry standards.
Another object of our invention is to provide a processing step that can be integrated into existing ammonium phosphate plants and permits the partial and controlled removal of the above-mentioned impurities. For economic reasons it is benefical to remove only as much of the impurities as is necessary to insure the grade specifications of the desired di-ammonium or non-ammonium phosphate products.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is directed to a dry shaver with a skin stretcher for raising hairs prior to cutting the hairs for effective hair cutting.
2. Description of the Prior Art Dry shavers with a skin stretcher have been proposed in the following publications.
1) Japanese Utility Model Publication (KOKAI) No. 63-121072 PA0 2) Japanese Utility Model Publication (KOKAI) No. 5-56063
The dry shaver according to the above publication 1) includes a skin stretcher in the form of a probe extending in an adjacent relation to a cutter unit. The probe comes into contact with the skin in advance of the cutter unit while moving the cutter unit across the skin of a user so as to stretch the skin for raising the hairs to be subsequently fed into perforations of an outer cutter, thereby improving cutting efficiency. The dry shaver according to the above publication 2) includes a skin stretcher in the form of a guide plate having an elongated skin contact edge. The guide plate extends in an adjacent relation to a cutter unit and is floatingly supported to a shaver body so that the guide plate is kept pressed against the skin during the shaving, thereby raising the hairs for readily introducing the hairs into the perforations of the outer cutter. The dry shaver of the latter publication is found advantageous in that the skin stretcher can be kept pressed against the skin to thereby press the skin constantly during the shaving operation. However, in an actual shaving condition where the butter unit is required to move across uneven skin surface, i.e., around a chin, only a portion of the elongate contact edge is available for stretching the skin. Thus, the hair raising is only effective to a limited portion and therefore not sufficient for smooth shaving.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a testing circuit and a testing method thereof, and more particularly, to a testing circuit and an operation method thereof for a flat panel display.
2. Description of the Related Art
Generally, the means for Flat Panel Display comprises Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Field Emission Display (FED), Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED), and Plasma Display Panel (PDP). Since the characteristics of thinness, lightness, flexibility, and compatibility to portable wireless communication and network technologies for present generation and beyond, LCD is undoubtedly the most prevailing flat panel display among all.
Material wise, Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD is further classified into at least two categories: amorphous-silicon (a-Si) LCD and poly-silicon (poly-Si) LCD, where Low Temperature Poly-Silicon (LTPS) LCD has been successfully developed. Since LTPS TFT provides higher mobility than a-Si LCD, it serves as an active element of the LCD, and it can be integrated with peripheral circuits onto a glass substrate, i.e., generally known as System on glass (SoG). In testing the flat panel display with conventional testing method, external probe serves to input a digital switching signal to each data line and each scanning line, so as to diagnose each TFT of a pixel.
However, as SoG technique develops, the conventional method becomes ineffective for testing the flat panel display for the data driving circuit has been integrated into the flat panel display. The reason is that on an display panel integrated with data driving circuit, a digital signal feeding the input pin is converted to an analog signal by a Digital-Analog Converter (DAC) as well as by an analog driving circuit, so as to drive the pixels on the panel. Therefore, it is an issue to diagnose the converter circuits on a display panel with data line driving circuit integrated. Furthermore, as the flat panel display is assembled, the external testing probe has no access to the data line and scanning line on the flat panel display, not allowing testing of the performance of the pixels on the flat panel display as succeeding process is completed.
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Fourth generation (4G) wireless networks have served the public well, providing ubiquitous access to the Internet and enabling the explosion of mobile apps, smartphones and sophisticated data intensive applications like mobile video. This continues the evolution of cellular technologies, where each new generation brings substantial benefits to the public, enabling significant gains in productivity, convenience, and quality of life.
Looking ahead to the demands that the ever increasing and diverse data usage is placing on existing networks, it is becoming clear to the industry that current 4G networks will not be able to support the foreseen needs in data usage. This is in part because data traffic volume has been, and continues to, increase at an exponential rate. Moreover, new applications such as, for example, immersive reality and remote robotic operation, coupled with the ongoing expansion of mobile video, are expected to overwhelm the carrying capacity of current network systems. One of the goals of 5G system design is to be able to economically scale the capabilities of networks in dense urban settings (e.g., to 750 Gbps per sq. Km), which is not possible using technology which has been commercially deployed.
In addition to being able to handle larger volumes of data, next generation systems will need to improve the quality of data delivery in order to support desired future applications. The public is increasingly coming to expect that wireless networks provide a near “wireline” experience to the untethered user. This may translate to, for example, a requirement of 50+ Mbps throughout coverage areas (i.e., even at cell edges), which will require advanced interference mitigation technologies to be realized.
Another aspect of the quality of user experience is mobility. The throughput of current wireless networks tends to be dramatically reduced in tandem with increased mobile speeds due to Doppler effects. Future 5G systems aim to not only increase supported speeds up to 500 Km/h for high speed trains and aviation, but to also support a host of new automotive applications for vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications.
While the support of increased and higher quality data traffic is necessary for wireless networks to continue supporting user needs, carriers are also exploring new applications that will enable new revenues and innovative use cases. These include the automotive and smart infrastructure applications discussed above. Other desired applications include the deployment of public safety ultra-reliable networks, the use of cellular networks to support the sunset of the PSTN, and the like. Moreover, it is anticipated the 5G networks will usher in the deployment of large numbers of Internet connected devices, also known as the Internet of Things (IoT). However, existing networks are not designed to support a very large number of connected devices with very low traffic per device.
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NOX storage catalytic converters serve to absorb and store nitrogen oxides (NOX) which may be emitted, in particular, by diesel engines operating in a lean-burn combustion mode. In response to a NOX storage catalytic converter being saturated with nitrogen oxide molecules, an operating phase with a rich air/fuel ratio may be performed for a duration of typically a number of seconds in order to regenerate the NOX storage catalytic converter in what may be known as a regeneration phase. During this phase, the stored nitrogen oxide molecules may be released and converted into components such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide and water vapour for example. The frequency with which a regeneration of said type may take place may be dependent on the nitrogen oxide emissions of the internal combustion engine, the storage capacity of the NOX storage catalytic converter, and the temperature of the exhaust gases of the internal combustion engine.
Previous approaches for determining the suitable times at which a regeneration of the NOX storage catalytic converter is required encompass the estimation of the NOX loading as a function of the NOX emission rate and the storage capacity of the NOX storage catalytic converter. In such approaches, the NOX emission rate of the internal combustion engine may either directly measured by means of a NOx sensor or is estimated with the aid of a model. In a NOx model of this type, NOX concentrations measured in the exhaust gas of the internal combustion engine to be listed as a function of the operating state of the internal combustion engine (that is to say the engine speed and engine load), and corrected as a function of the coolant temperature and the composition of the recirculated exhaust gas.
The storage capacity of the NOX storage catalytic converter may be a function of the measured or estimated catalytic converter temperature and the estimated NOX loading. The suitable time for a termination of the regeneration phase in one approach may be determined using a lambda probe arranged downstream. According to another approach, it is also possible to use a model for determining the NOX conversion rate, with the regeneration phase being terminated when the calculated loading falls below a predefined threshold value. In order to realize an on-board diagnostic (OBD) function, a NOx sensor which is arranged downstream of the NOX storage catalytic converter may be used in order to signal when the NOX emissions exceed the prescribed limit values.
Several publications, for example U.S. Pat. No. 6,645,361 B1 and also for example the SAE publication “Thick Film ZrO2 NOX Sensor” by N. Kato et al., publication no. 960334 of the Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc., Reprint from Electronic Engine Controls 1996 (SP-1149), International Congress & Exposition, Detroit (Mich.), 26-29 Feb. 1996, disclose electro-chemical gas sensors which can be used for NOX determination.
FIG. 1 schematically shows an example of an electro chemical gas sensor, such as described in the above citations. Sensor 1 may include a first chamber 2 connected to a second chamber 3 via a duct which extends through a diffusion barrier layer 4. A constant predetermined oxygen partial pressure is generated in the first chamber 2 by pump electrodes 5 by way of the supply or discharge of oxygen. The gas which is supplied via the duct of the second chamber 3 is reduced by way of electrodes 6. Electrodes 6 are arranged in second chamber 3 and include a catalytic material, so as to generate nitrogen and oxygen, whereupon a pump voltage which is proportional to the NOX concentration is tapped off. In addition, a heating device 7 is provided, to increase the temperature of the chambers or the pump electrodes to approximately 600° C. to 700° C. resulting in more efficient operation, and which can be surrounded for example by an insulating Al2O3 layer.
In one approach, in order to determine the NOX loading of a NOX storage catalytic converter, two NOx sensors may be used, one of which is arranged upstream of the NOX storage catalytic converter and the other of which is arranged downstream of the NOX storage catalytic converter.
However, the inventors have recognized that there may be several issue with such an approach. In particular, using two sensors to determine NOX loading of the NOX storage catalytic converter may result in considerable technical expenditure and corresponding costs with regard to the required provision of the corresponding monitoring device for the loading state.
Thus, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide a device for estimating the load state of an emission control device, such as a NOX storage catalytic converter, which permits reliable determination of the state of the device, such as the NOX load, with reduced technical expenditure and a corresponding reduction in cost. Note that the approach may applied to determining other loadings of an emission control device, such as oxygen loading, particulate matter loading, reductant loading, etc.
In one approach described herein, at least some of the above issues may be addressed by a device for estimating the loading state of a NOX storage catalytic converter, comprising: a module for determining the oxygen concentration difference between an oxygen concentration present in the exhaust gas upstream of the NOX storage catalytic converter and an oxygen concentration present in the exhaust gas downstream of the NOX storage catalytic converter, and a controller for estimating the loading state of the NOX storage catalytic converter on the basis of said oxygen concentration difference.
By determining the loading state of the NOX storage catalytic converter directly based on the oxygen concentration difference between an oxygen concentration which is present in the exhaust gas upstream of the NOX storage catalytic converter and an oxygen concentration which is present in the exhaust gas downstream of the NOX storage catalytic converter, the expenditure for actuating, heating, and for processing and evaluating the signals for two separate sensors which measure absolute oxygen concentration at different locations may be condensed to a single module. In this way, a significant reduction in the technical expenditure and associated costs may be obtained.
In addition, the estimation of the loading state of the NOX storage catalytic converter directly on the basis of the oxygen concentration difference has measurement-related advantages as a result of the significant reduction in the absolute measuring error which can be obtained in the case of a difference measurement in comparison to an absolute value determinations. In this way, the accuracy of the determination of the loading state of the NOX storage catalytic converter may be improved.
Further, the present application also contemplates a system for an engine, comprising: a unitary sensor communicating with exhaust gas at at least a first and second position in an exhaust of the engine, the sensor responsive to gas concentrations of the first and second positions; and a controller for adjusting engine operation responsive to the unitary sensor. The controller may adjust fuel injection, air-fuel ratio, estimation of catalyst NOx and/or oxygen loading, diagnostics, etc. The gas concentrations may include NOx, oxygen, etc. Also, the first and second positions may be upstream and downstream of an emission control device, respectively. Alternatively, the first and second positions may be in two separate exhaust conduits coupled to separate engine banks. Still other positions may also be used.
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This invention is a process for the alkylation of an aromatic hydrocarbon which comprises contacting the aromatic hydrocarbon with a stoichiometric or excess amount of a C.sub.2 to C.sub.4 olefin alkylating agent and in the presence of a catalyst comprising zeolite beta. This is especially useful for the production of a mixture of ethylbenzene and diethylbenzene by the reaction of dilute ethylene with dilute benzene. It can be carried out in a fixed bed reactor or more preferably in a catalytic distillation reactor.
The known processes for the manufacture of ethylbenzene use the Friedel-Crafts reaction of alkylation of benzene by ethylene. Similarly, Friedel-Crafts reaction of alkylation of benzene by propylene is used to manufacture cumene.
The catalysts for this reaction are typically Bronsted or Lewis acids, including aluminum chloride, boron trifluoride deposited on alumina, or zeolites used in liquid or gas phase.
One of the difficulties encountered in this reaction is for example when ethylene is used as the alkylating agent that the ethylbenzene formed is more reactive than benzene with respect to ethylene, which leads to the production of diethylbenzenes, which are themselves more reactive than ethylbenzene, and therefore have a tendency to form triethylbenzenes. To limit these polyalkylation reactions, the prior art teaches the use of a large excess of benzene with respect to the ethylene at the entry of the alkylation reactors. Thus, the benzene/ethylene molar ratio is generally between 2 and 2.5 for the processes using aluminum chloride, and the ratio may even reach a value between 8 and 16 for processes using zeolites in the gas phase. In spite of the use of an excess of benzene with respect to the ethylene to minimize the formation of polyethylbenzenes, such formation cannot be completely avoided.
It is becoming increasingly desirable to be able to economically remove the majoity of the benzene from streams being blended into gasoline to meet environmental regulations. Prior art describes means to accomplish this by alkylating, the benzene. Such approaches while successfully reducing the benzene contained in the gasoline by converting it to higher boiling alkyl benzenes, typically do not remove the aromatic rings. Therefore, total aromatic content in the gasoline remains essentially unchanged. Environmental regulations for gasoline and distillate fuels are increasingly limiting both the benzene and total aromatic content. Therefore from an environmental standpoint it is more desirable to remove the benzene ring from the gasoline.
It is also economically attractive to make use of the benzene in such streams as a feedstock in processes that make high-valued petrochemicals such as ethylbenzene and cumene instead of requiring a purified benzene stream as the feedstock, as is now practiced in the industry.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,891,458 discloses: a process for the alkylation of an aromatic hydrocarbon which comprises contacting the aromatic hydrocarbon with a C.sub.2 to C.sub.4 olefin under at least partial liquid phase conditions and in the presence of a catalyst comprising zeolite beta. (column 2, lines 33-39). This same patent further discloses, "When alkylation is the process conducted according to this invention, reaction conditions are as follows. The aromatic hydrocarbon feed should be present in stoichiometric excess. It is preferred that the molar ratio of aromatics to olefins be at least about four to one (4:1) to prevent rapid catalyst fouling." (column 5, lines 24-29). In U.S. Pat. No. 5,081,323, a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 4,891,458, feeding a part of the aromatic stream between reactor beds is disclosed.
Published EP-A-571,701 discloses a process for alkylating a hydrogenated dilute benzene with a dilute olefin stream. The dilute benzene is first hydrogenated in order to remove C.sub.5 -C.sub.7 olefins. Zeolite beta is specifically disclosed as a suitable catalyst. The molar ratio of aromatics to olefins is required to be at least about three to one (3:1). Further, the aromatic hydrocarbon feed should be present in a stoichimetric excess, and it is preferred that the molar ratio of aromatics to olefins be at least 3:1 to prevent catalyst fouling (page 6. lines 42-44).
In the prior art thus far discussed, a stoichimetric excess of benzene is employed, this can easily be achieved when commercially pure benzene is used as a feedstock. In this instance as is well known in the arts, the unreacted benzene is recovered downstream by distillation and merely recycled back to the reactor. This maintains the stoichimetric excess of benzene in the alkylation reactor feed and achieves high ultimate conversion of benzene. However, when the feed stream is dilute in benzene, high conversion of the benzene is not so easily achievable, when a stoichiometric excess is required by the process. In this latter situation the unreacted benzene will be diluted with materials not easily separated by distillation, and therefore would rapidly build up if the stream containing them were recycled to the alkylation reactor. A common approach to avoid this undesirable result is to purge a significant fraction of the steam containing the unreacted benzene, which necessarily results in a relatively low ultimate conversion of the benzene originally in the feedstream.
For the foregoing reasons there is a need for a process which is able to remove the benzene from hydrocarbon streams in the gasoline boiling range, which at the same time does not require the use of excess benzene, achieves a high level of benzene removal, can use dilute ethylene or propylene as an alkylating agent, and allows for the recovery of high valued petrochemical products such as ethylbenzene or cumene.
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1. Field of Invention
The present invention relates to an earpiece, and more particularly to the earpiece with a loudspeaker therein, wherein the present invention not only prevents us from directly impacting the sound pressure to the human ear but also provides us a sound wave without any high frequency noise.
2. Description of Related Arts
In 1990, the National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference State announced: "there are about 28 million American have hearing loss problem, among those people, at least one million people have hearing loss from high impact noise environment." Additionally, in 1993, National Ear Care Plan claimed that approximate 1.7% of American Teen who under 18 have hearing disability. Furthermore, in 1997, UT Southwestern Medical Center stated: "approximate 20% of American Teen, between 13-19 have hearing disability. The major cause of the hearing loss is people exposed to the noise especially the impulse noise from the earpiece." People should concern the control of the sound volume while using the traditional earpiece (continuous hearing not more than one hour or six hours per day when sound pressure at 105 dB or 95 dB respectively). In fact, this flash impulse noise contains high sound pressure and may damage the eardrum or middle ear hearing loss. It is called Conductive Hearing Loss. America's medical report recently stated that the percentage of people having the Conductive Hearing Loss is gradually increasing since earpieces are improperly used listen to the hot music such as Rock and Roll.
Moreover, earpiece receives signal from source such as Walkman or communicator devices, and transfers the sound wave to human ear which the perceptible frequency range of human being is about 20 Hz to 20 kHz. In fact, the reproductive resonance of sound wave in above frequency range is not ideal since the source of sound is not come from millions dollars of high-end musical devices but from the walkman or communicator devices. Among these signal from walkman or communicator devices exist lots of feedback or noise, so the noise of `beep` sounds often found at high frequency range and `woo` sounds often found at low frequency range.
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Field
The present disclosure relates to a wearable device which provides haptic and audio feedback based on stereo camera input.
Description of the Related Art
Wearable cameras provide recording and documenting of a user's experience, often from the same or similar point of view or field of view (FOV) of the user. However, these devices are passive recorders, and do not generally provide real time processing and information about the scene in the FOV. Certain users, such as blind persons, may desire additional feedback relating to the environment. Other wearable cameras may be designed to assist blind persons. However, such devices lack stereo cameras for reliable depth perception information.
Thus, there is a need for an unobtrusive device which augments a user's environmental awareness and social interaction with depth perception and object recognition.
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The present invention relates to steels having high wear resistance and low friction surfaces and methods of producing these surfaces on steel.
In the past, the wear resistance of steel surfaces has been improved by subjecting the steel to a high temperature process in which a wear resistant coating is bonded to the surface or an element such as, carbon and/or nitrogen, is thermally diffused into the steel surface to locally increase the hardness of the steel itself in a relatively wide layer extending inwardly from the steel surface.
More recently, the use of ion implantation as a means for improving the wear resistance of steels and other alloys has begun to be explored. Ion implantation involves the implantation of a high energy, typically 10-400 keV, ionized species of atom or molecule into the surface being treated. The implanted ions are distributed in a relative thin band in a gaussian-like manner beneath the treated surface and produce a layer of irradiation hardened material in their wake. Thermal diffusion of the implanted species is insignificant since the process is carried out at a low temperature. Examples of ion implantation in steels are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,900,636 and 3,832,219.
While improvements have been made in the wear and frictional properties of steel surfaces by the above processes, there still exists a need to provide further enhancement and optimization of these properties.
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(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates in general to computer networks, and more specifically to a method and apparatus that provides a display of the current operational status of all the data sources connected to a computer network.
(2) Description of the Prior Art
A common data processing system design utilizes a distributed computing environment where data is managed and disseminated over two or more interconnected computers. Such an interconnection of computers with the ability to communicate information between the computers is known as a computer network, or simply a network. Such networks may include a large number of components, including various types of computers and peripheral devices, which may be configured in a variety of ways and may be characterized as “Local Area Networks” (LANs) or “Wide Area Networks” (WANs) by the geographic area over which the components are distributed. LANs and WANs often employ several common configurations or architectures. For example, in a generic client/server configuration a certain number of the interconnected computers may function as clients while others may function as servers that provide services to the clients. Such a client/server configuration is a common example of the several available configurations of distributed computing environments (LANs and WANs) and is well known by those skilled in the art.
One manner of implementing software applications to run on a LAN or WAN is to use a vendor-independent network software architecture and infrastructure that various heterogeneous software applications can use to work together over the network. Such an implementation can be achieved using the “Common Object Request Broker Architecture” (CORBA) Specification. CORBA is a vendor independent specification for an architecture and infrastructure that promotes interoperability. It integrates computers from different vendors ranging in size from mainframes to desktops. CORBA provides a software bus that enables system applications to exchange and communicate information where such applications typically are distributed across a LAN or WAN. A CORBA based system relies on data abstraction to permit software applications running on the system to function unconstrained by the underlying network details, such as the types of workstations, the types of operating systems, and/or the programming languages of other application implementations. One of CORBA's most important, as well as most frequent uses is in network server applications that must handle a large number of clients, at high hit rates with high reliability. Applications utilizing CORBA are typically implemented and configured as either providers of data (servers and suppliers) or users of data (clients and consumers).
A large-scale distributed software system utilizing CORBA based architecture could have hundreds of servers/suppliers. In a large-scale system it may not be immediately obvious to a system manager whether all of the servers/suppliers are functioning properly or if a single server/supplier out of hundreds has failed. A number of software tools presently exist for gathering a variety of data from servers and/or clients in a distributed software system.
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,226,120 to Brown et al. for “Apparatus and Method of Monitoring the Status of a Local Area Network” (issued Jul. 6, 1993) teaches a monitoring and status displaying apparatus which determines the topology of a LAN by identifying and isolating each hub in the LAN and identifying the types of modules and the physical locations of the modules in the hub so that an image of the actual hub can be displayed on the video screen of the control console. The actual hub image shows the location and types of modules installed in the hub. However, this apparatus is oriented towards the managing and ascertaining of the specific physical layout of the hardware that composes the LAN. It does not monitor the processes running on the separate data terminal devices to determine if they are providing data appropriately nor does it display this information as status.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,675,798 to Chang for “System and Method for Selectively and Contemporaneously Monitoring Processes in a Multiprocessing Server” (issued Oct. 7, 1997) teaches a system for displaying the status of specific client applications running on a single multiprocessing server. The invention, by isolating and focusing on a specific client process, provides information of a granularity to identify processes which are hung up on semaphores, messages, queues or the like. The system employs a monitoring computer program running on the multiprocessing server which links control blocks to every process and displays information regarding the processes on a video display. Although this invention can provide a display of the status of a particular client process running on the server, it does not provide a system wide display of all servers and suppliers at once. There is no opportunity to obtain a complete system wide picture of which servers are operating and which are not. Also, this invention does not employ existing CORBA resources to achieve its results, but rather needs to employ additional performance monitoring code.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,939,999 to Ohgaki for “Polling Method and Apparatus for a Digital Processing System” (issued Aug. 17, 1999) teaches a digital processing system, such as transmission apparatus used in a digital communication system which employs a supervisory control unit and a plurality of controlled units each performing various processes. The supervisory control unit must perform a polling operation to each controlled unit to collect status information and determine whether any one of the controlled units is not mounted or has failed. Although the Ohgaki apparatus permits a considerable reduction of polling time over the prior art between the supervisory control unit and the plurality of controlled units, there is no display of such information to any type of graphical user interface.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,070,190 to Reps et al. for “Client-Based Application Availability and Response Monitoring and Reporting for Distributed Computing Environments” (issued May 30, 2000) teaches a method, system and program product for monitoring, from a client computer system, the performance of an application program residing on a server computer system connected to a LAN or WAN. A probe program residing at the client computer generates requests for the services of the application program and records transaction records based upon service responses from the server. The transaction records contain information such as whether a service response was made, the length of time to receive a response and other desired performance metrics. This information is stored in a database for statistical analysis and is also displayed on a graphical user interface. The goal is to monitor desired performance metrics of software applications running on servers from an end-user's vantage point. Although this invention can provide a display of the status of a particular process running on a server, it does not provide a system wide look at the status of all servers. Furthermore, it employs additional performance monitoring code in the form of a probe program incorporated into each client computer.
The above-described patents, while offering valuable information, do not by themselves provide the system manager of a large-scale distributed software system with a method and apparatus for easily and continuously ascertaining the system wide state of all of the servers/suppliers in real time. With such a method and apparatus, a system user might avoid a situation where he/she is unaware that a server or supplier is experiencing a loss of functionality until an undesired event occurs. System testers and maintenance personnel would also benefit from such a method and apparatus by quickly ascertaining the baseline status of the system and then quickly detecting and localizing a system problem to a particular server/supplier. In addition, it would be advantageous to provide such a method and apparatus without requiring additional performance monitoring code to be incorporated into each server/supplier application and without requiring a Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) agent to be running on all applicable hosts and an available system manager to oversee the system wide monitoring.
There is currently no method and apparatus which can provide a “quick look” status of all of the data sources of a data processing system utilizing CORBA architecture on a LAN which avoids incorporating performance monitoring code into each server/supplier application, avoids having an SNMP agent running on every host, enables a system operator or manager to determine the availability of system data, allows testers to determine the configuration of the system for a particular test and provides maintenance personnel a debugging capability to assist in troubleshooting of problems. What is needed is a status display tool for a multi-unit computer based network hosting a large-scale distributed software system.
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{
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1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to stabilizing mechanisms for two wheeled vehicles, and more particularly, to an air propulsion device for laterally stabilizing a motorcycle in an upright position when stopped.
2. Summary of the Related Art
Traditionally, motorcycles have been laterally stabilized by a kick-stand for parking or storage, and by the rider's feet when momentarily stopping at a traffic light or stop sign. In the case of riders with shorter legs, using their feet to stabilize the motorcycle while stopped briefly may be a difficult task. Motorcycles today tend to be well over 300 pounds and a short legged rider may not be able to stabilize a heavy motorcycle with one foot on the ground while leaning considerably to one side. Alternatively, riders with shorter legs can dangle their legs off the sides of the motorcycle and hope to keep it stable and in the upright position by purely balancing on the two tires.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,118,126 to Yapie discloses a hydraulically, pneumatically, electrically, or engine operated motorcycle stand that makes contact with the ground and raises the rear end of the motorcycle off the ground.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,518,259 to Hall discloses a lateral stabilizer for two-wheeled vehicles that includes a pair of outrigger wheels on either side of the rear wheel that are vertically movable as to make contact with the ground when stabilization is needed.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,358,265 to Yaple discloses an automatically actuated motorcycle center lift stand that extends and retracts between a ground contact position and a raised position.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,658,732 to Coester discloses a pneumatic propulsion system for freight and/or passenger vehicles.
While these units may be suitable for the particular purpose employed, or for general use, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention as disclosed hereafter.
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{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
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1. Field of Invention
The present invention relates to a photography method, and more particularly to a method for real-time prompt of a stitching degree of a panoramic image.
2. Related Art
Generally speaking, in panoramic image photography, a user mostly moves the digital image pickup device manually in sequence and shoots pictures in sequence to obtain multiple images. When shooting, the user must adjust the viewing location such that the multiple images all have overlapping portions. Then the user transfers these images from the digital image pickup device to a computer, and carries out image composition of these images having the overlapping portions on the computer. Here, image processing software installed on the computer is utilized to stitch the overlapping portions of these images together to produce a panoramic image.
However, specific image processing software is used to stitch the images to produce the panoramic image. In this way, the user has to not only install such image processing software on the computer, but also learn how to use the image processing software. Further, functions of the image processing software are considerable complicated, and the user may not have the knowledge and capability required. Therefore, this approach is quite difficult for users.
Furthermore, in the method of adjusting the viewing locations by the user, the user needs more professional shooting skills, and should have the image recognition capability to some extent; otherwise, subsequent image stitching will be more difficult, or the effect of image stitching will be poor.
As described above, a common digital image pickup device is unable to provide the users with an easy and convenient approach to shoot panoramic images, making panoramic shooting not easy for users.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,289,147 and No. 7,050,085, and US Patent Application No. 20070200926, 20080043093 and 20080266408 may be referenced for relevant techniques and studies.
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{
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Enterprise networks and other private networks are often multi-homed for reliability. A multi-homed network is a private network with more than one link to the Internet. The different links can be provided by different Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for increased reliability.
A firewall or other security device can be used to regulate traffic communicated across the links. Although certain efficiencies are achieved by using one security device to manage traffic communicated across all the links, the single security device becomes a single point of failure for the private network.
Accordingly, there is a desire to use different security devices to regulate traffic communicated across the different multi-homed network links. However, distributing different security devices for the different links can result in asymmetric routing problems that can prevent certain connections from being established between the multi-homed network and another network. The disclosure that follows solves this and other problems.
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{
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The disclosure relates in general to signal processing circuits and methods for source synchronization. In particular, the disclosure relates to signal processing circuits and methods for a double data rate (DDR) synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM).
Certain types of memory devices generate a clock strobe signal having edges aligned with changes in the read data. A DDR SDRAM transfers data on each rising and falling edge of the clock strobe signal, thereby transferring two data words per clock cycle.
A read data synchronization circuit is often used to coordinate the transfer of data to and from a memory device, such as a DDR SDRAM. The read data synchronization circuit provides a local clock signal to the memory device to synchronize read and write operations. The clock strobe signal generated by the memory device with the read data has predefined phase constraints with respect to the local clock signal provided by the read data synchronization circuit. The read data synchronization circuit uses the clock strobe signal to determine when the read data is valid and can therefore be latched. The times at which the read data is latched are preferably synchronized relative to the clock strobe signal so as to latch the read data in the middle of the valid data window.
In normal operation, the memory controller can initiate a READ operation by issuing a READ command to the DDR SDRAM. In response, the DDR SDRAM will retrieve a predetermined portion of the data stored therein beginning at the particular address specified in the READ command. When ready to transmit the retrieved data, the DDR SDRAM will first generate the DQS preamble, then transmit the data, edge-aligned with both the rising and falling edges of DQS, and, finally, generate the DQS postamble. This sequence, however, is problematic when noise is introduced into the DQS signal. The memory controller can be operative to mistakenly receive the noise introduced DQS signal and consider the noise introduced DQS signal as the real DQS. The memory controller reacts prematurely and captures spurious data. In the other words, it fails to receive the actual data. If DQS is introduced the noise generating from problems of, the system PCB, interference of other signals, or DDR memory, some state machines will enter a false state and system crash due to abnormal access of memory.
This particular problem becomes increasingly serious as system clock rates rise in subsequent generations of DDR devices. Given the inherent difficulty in coordinating two electronic circuits physically located on separate chips, e.g., the DDR SDRAM and the memory controller, there may be no completely satisfactory solution for such inter-chip transactions, short of using the mixed-signal clock forwarding/recovery techniques common in high-speed telecommunication devices. A alternative solution is required to improve noise immunity in systems having DDR SDRAMs.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,785,189 to Jacobs provides a method and apparatus for improving noise immunity in a DDR SDRAM system. FIG. 1 is a block diagram disclosed by Jacobs.
Jacobs discloses a DQS qualifying circuit to frame the DQS from DDR SDRAM. The DQSQ frame generator 12 includes 2 dedicated pins and a dummy load, which should be equal to the load of DDR SDRAM. The DQSQ frame generator 12 transmits a DQS qualifying signal DQSQ from one pin, and receives a delayed DQS qualifying signal from existing controller circuits 14 after a certain fly time on PC board, equal to the fly time of DQS signal. Thus, the memory controller of Jacobs uses the delayed DQS qualifying signal to frame the DQS signal from DDR SDRAM 16.
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{
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When evaporating sulfate black liquor to high dry solids content (60-75%), the viscosity of the liquor increases rapidly. At the same time its evaporability decreases significantly because the black liquor adheres to the heating surface thus impairing the heat transfer to the black liquor. In order to achieve a high caloric value for combustion of the black liquor in a recovery boiler, the dry solids content should be as high as possible.
Co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 312,424, the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference, suggests a method for decreasing the viscosity and improving the evaporability of sulfate black liquor. This is brought about by raising the temperature of the black liquor above the cooking temperature in a reactor so as to split the macro-molecular lignin fractions contained in the liquor.
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{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to optical fibers, and in particular to an optical fiber capable of transmitting optical power or both optical power and optical data.
2. Technical Background
Powering electrical devices (including electronic devices) using copper wires is problematic in certain environments where electrical isolation is required. For example, in high-voltage power distribution lines, the copper wire connecting the ground station to the current-sensing system located at the top of the high-voltage line requires a complex, bulky and heavy isolation system, which is eliminated if the sensor is driven using a fiber system.
Due to its dielectric properties, a fiber optic system is intrinsically insensitive to electric and electromagnetic interference. Accordingly, one alternative to using copper wires to power electrical devices is to use optical fibers instead. An optical-fiber-based power delivery system uses high optical power emitted from a laser source. The laser light is inputted at an input end of the optical fiber, transmitted through the length of the optical fiber, and is converted into electrical power at the output end of the optical fiber. The electrical power is then used to drive one or more electrical devices located at or near the output end of the optical fiber.
Present-day optical-fiber-based power delivery systems use standard telecommunication optical fibers. It would be desirable to have alternative and improved fiber designs for power delivery.
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{
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The present invention relates to graphic artists' and designers' tools and pertains particularly to a light table having a built-in tool holder.
Light tables or boxes having a transparent support surface and a source of light for projecting through the support surface for enabling the tracing of drawings, sketches and the like are well known and widely used by graphic artists and draftsmen. Such devices however are typically a simple light box that is frequently moved from drafting table to drafting table as the need arises.
Draftsmen and graphic artists typically use a wide variety of tools in their work. These tools include various sizes and hardnesses of pencils, various sizes and configurations of pens, various sizes and combinations of colors of markers, inks, tapes, rulers, and various other implements. It is desirable that such tools be ready at hand and in an organized arrangement.
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{
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Vehicle door latches typically include as a minimum a ratchet that holds a striker, and a pawl that releasably holds the ratchet closed. When a person wishes to open a vehicle door, the person pulls a door handle to move the pawl out of the way of the ratchet, and the person typically opens the door at the same time, so as the pull the striker from the ratchet bringing the ratchet to an open position. Additionally, vehicle manufacturers sometimes design the vehicle door so that the seal on the door (ie. the door seal) urges the door open once the door handle is pulled, so as to assist in pulling the striker from the ratchet. As the vehicle ages however, or in certain conditions, such as very cold weather, the door seal force typically decreases. In a situation where there is a delay between when the door handle is pulled and when the door is opened, the pawl can inadvertently wind up in a position whereat it obstructs the ratchet from releasing the striker. In such a situation the person opening the door much pull on the door handle a second time and then open the door immediately, which can be inconvenient.
It would be beneficial to provide a closure latch that permits a delay between when the door handle is pulled and when the door itself is opened.
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{
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An inner liner excellent in air permeation resistance has been proposed for the purpose of developing fuel-saving and lightweight tires, and for example, tires highly filled with soft carbon black such as GPF, SRF or the like are known, but are problematic in point of flexure failure resistance and low-temperature characteristics in use in cold environments.
Also known are a technique of incorporating flat mica in a rubber composition (see Patent Reference 1), and a blending technique of incorporating a layered or platy clay mineral such as clay or the like in a rubber composition along with incorporating the above-mentioned soft carbon black therein (see Patent References 2 and 3); however, there may be a probability that the flexure failure resistance and the low-temperature characteristics of the rubber compositions may worsen though the air permeation resistance thereof could be enhanced. Accordingly, it is necessary to develop a rubber composition excellent in flexure failure resistance and air permeation resistance for meeting the requirements of the marketplace including weight saving (fuel saving) of tires.
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{
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Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in some thermally sensitive paper products such as cash-register receipts, shipping labels and lottery tickets. Thermal paper typically includes a base sheet and a thermally responsive coating with color forming chemicals that when heated produce color. BPA is often used as a color developer in the thermally responsive coating.
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{
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Among systems in which power is wirelessly transmitted from a power transmission device to a power reception device, there is a system that uses an electric field coupling scheme. In this system, electrodes of the power transmission device and electrodes of the power reception device are electric field coupled with each other and power is transmitted therebetween. In addition, in this electric field coupling scheme, if the amount of power being transmitted is comparatively large and a foreign object is interposed between the electrodes, a malfunction may occur. Accordingly, a wireless power transmission system capable of detecting that a foreign object has come close to an electrode is proposed in Patent Document 1.
In the wireless power transmission system described in Patent Document 1, a foreign object detection electrode is provided in the power transmission device so as to be spaced apart from an electrode used for electric field coupling. A voltage generated between the electric field coupling electrode and the foreign object detection electrode is monitored and when this voltage changes by a certain amount or more, it is determined that a foreign object has come close to the space between the electric field coupling electrodes of the power transmission device and the power reception device and power transmission is stopped.
Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2012/070479.
However, there is a problem in the case described in Patent Document 1 in that a foreign object detection electrode needs to be provided and additionally the foreign object detection electrode needs to be provided so as to surround an electric field coupling electrode and furthermore the shapes of the electrodes used in the power transmission device are restricted. In addition, there is also a problem in that, if the foreign object detection electrode has a shape containing a cut-out portion, it will not be possible to detect a foreign object when a foreign object approaches the cut-out portion. Consequently, in Patent Document 1, it may not be possible to accurately detect a foreign object and there is a risk of a malfunction occurring due to it not being possible to detect a foreign object with certainty and a user touching the foreign object.
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{
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In the tissue business, product design has traditionally been an exercise in balancing softness against tensile strength. In order to induce a softness sensation when touched by the user, conventional tissue makers have tended to adopt a layered sheet structure having weakened outer layers. Chemical softening agents and/or different fiber types are often incorporated into the outer layers to further enhance the softness perception. Consequently, the mechanical integrity of the tissue is primarily provided by a relatively strong center layer. This practice produces a tissue with a superior surface feel that is often described as fuzzy, velvety, silky, flannelly and/or lotiony. Unfortunately, this practice also leads to a substantial increase in surface lint and slough. In addition, increasing the softness by this method negatively impacts the strength of the tissue. A weak tissue exhibiting surface lint and slough during use and/or which easily tears or which has low poke-through resistance will be perceived as less durable. To counter this perception, the traditional approach has been to increase the sheet tensile strength. Unfortunately, this practice increases the stiffness of the sheet by also increasing the bending resistance. A stiff tissue will be perceived as tough and harsh, which is particularly undesirable for a bath tissue.
In order to obtain a tissue having low stiffness with high strength, many tissue makers will produce a tissue product having two or three plies. In such multi-ply tissues, the amount of fiber on a per-ply basis is reduced as compared to that of a single-ply tissue having a similar or slightly lower basis weight. In general, a tissue sheet having a lower basis weight will bend more easily than a tissue with a higher basis weight with the same thickness, resulting in greater conformability in the user's hand. Consequently, a multi-ply tissue is generally seen as being-more conformable and having greater softness, while also being perceived as more durable.
Therefore there is a need for a softer, more durable single-ply tissue sheet especially useful for single-ply tissue products.
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{
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The present invention relates to integrated circuit technology. More particularly, the present invention relates to imager integrated circuits and to multi-color-channel integrated circuits, and to methods for classifying and correcting vertical color image sensor defects utilizing all color channel information of each defective pixel.
Defects are well known issues in CMOS color image sensors including both vertical color sensors such as the X3 sensor manufactured and marketed by Foveon, Inc., of San Jose, Calif., as well as traditional types of color image sensors. Defects are a cost issue as they negatively affect the yield at various steps of manufacturing. Sensor defects include pixel clusters in the image sensor sharing a common defect in one or more integrated circuit layers, particles on the die surface, and window defects. Prior-art methods have been used to detect defects but have minimal classification capabilities.
Defects are a cost issue as they affect the yield at various steps of manufacturing. Defects can be introduced during different phases of the manufacturing flow, including integrated circuit fabrication, glass manufacturing, and sensor assembly.
Traditional testing for defects does not employ defect classification. During the testing phase of image sensor manufacturing, defect tests are implemented. Sensors having defects that are too large and/or too numerous are rejected. The size and quantity of defects are the main characteristics of defects with this traditional type of testing. Information that is useful for yield enhancement or defect correction is limited with the prior-art approach.
Defect classification presents several challenges. Identifying the different types of defects is a challenge for the testing phase of manufacturing for multiple reasons. There are numerous types of pixel clusters that share many of the same traits. Particles on the die surface are hard to distinguish from some types of pixel cluster defects. Window defects are hard to distinguish from die surface particles and from some types of pixel cluster defects.
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{
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Stored value cards, which may also be known as gift cards, debit cards, loyalty or reward cards, identification cards, prepaid cards, shopping cards or fare cards, prepaid MasterCard™ and Visa™ cards (instant issue) among other names, are very popular with both consumers and retailers. The wide appeal of stored value cards, as a result, has attracted the unwelcome attention of criminals seeking to exploit the conveniences and automated processes afforded by such cards. In particular, such criminals misappropriate and manipulate stored value cards and associated account information to perform fraudulent transactions. Stored value card fraud is typically perpetrated in the form of either at the physical point of sale (POS) or “card present” fraud, or for virtual POS purchases or “card not present” (CNP) fraud. The latter includes transactions, such as in e-commerce or internet purchases, which cannot be authenticated using “standard” processes used at the physical POS.
A stored value card is typically the size and shape of a conventional credit card (CR80 Card), but it may be other shapes and sizes as well, and includes a magnetic stripe, bar code, alpha/numeric, or other similar activation method, account identifying element, or means for using the card. The stripe, code, account identifying element, etc. on the card is encoded with data, which includes a unique account number. The account identifying element, for example, may be visible while the card is secured in or secured to packaging, such that the account identifying element may be used during the purchase and activation of the card.
Commonly, stored value cards are displayed by retailers for purchase by customers. The cards are stored in an active or inactive state. In the inactive state, the card cannot be used to purchase goods or services until the card has been activated. For example, one or more cards may be contained in a carrier, in which the card(s) and/or carrier includes an activation code associated with the card(s). The carrier obscures other card information, such as the card identification number, account identification number, and/or PIN until the carrier is opened and the card is removed.
A customer may have a card activated by bringing a card to a cashier and having the cashier then, for example, swipe the card through a point of sale terminal, which may add value to the card in exchange for payment, or activate value already on the card. In this context, the “swipe” action could involve passing a card (or its packaging) though a magnetic strip reader/writer; or passing the card or package over a barcode scanner; or putting the card or package in the vicinity of a proximity reader/writer (such as, for example, an RFID reader/writer or NFC reader), or any other equivalent activation technique. A balance on the card may be maintained within a computer system located at the point of sale or at a remote location. A holder of the stored value card may then use the card to purchase goods and/or services immediately or over time up to the value of the card. These current procedures relating to stored value cards, although providing convenience to consumers, leave the cards vulnerable to criminals. If the card is stored in an active state, the card does not need to be activated, and is ready for use upon extracting the card from the package. If the card is stored in the active state, however, the card, data, and value on the account may be even more vulnerable.
One particular fraud that is perpetuated by criminals with regard to stored value cards is called “skimming.” Skimming is a serious problem resulting in significant loss to both retailers and consumers, and applies to both card present and CNP fraud. To skim a card having a magnetic stripe holding account information, for example, a criminal will purchase a stored value card from a retailer, thereby causing an account associated with the card to become activated. The criminal will then remove additional cards from the store that have not yet been activated, and will then alter magnetically stored information on the inactivated cards to match that of the activated card. As such, all of the altered, inactivated cards will have the magnetic information that identifies the account of the originally purchased card. The criminal will then return the altered cards to the store shelf where unsuspecting customers seeking to purchase a stored value card will unknowingly place money into the account of the criminal holding the originally purchased card. The unsuspecting customer may attempt to use their card and will be told that it has no associated value or has a smaller value than thought.
Alternatively, a criminal will remove at least two cards from the location or store of a retailer unbeknownst to the retailer. The magnetically stored information of the first card is altered to match the magnetically stored information of the second card. The first card is returned to the store, again unbeknownst to the retailer. When the first card is subsequently purchased and activated, it also activates the second card which is in the possession of the criminal.
In either case, the retailer may be able to verify that the customer did not use the value associated with the stored value card, and in the interest of customer service, may restore the value to the customer. In that case, the retailer loses the money. However, in some cases, there may be no way to prove fraud and the customer may lose up to the entire value.
Another fraud perpetuated by criminals is carried out by the criminal viewing stored value cards in the store. The criminal writes down the code associated with the particular stored value card (such as a credit card type number) while it is still in the store. In such situations the code is in plain view of the criminal or may be easily viewed without altering the card packaging. Once the criminal has recorded the code, the criminal waits for a period of time, assuming that an unsuspecting customer will purchase and have the card activated during that time. The criminal then periodically checks to see if they are able to make purchases, such as online purchases (CNP fraud), by attempting to use the card code. If the card has been activated by the true purchaser, the criminal will be able to purchase goods online using the activated code, thereby stealing the balance on the card from the true purchaser.
Criminals may perpetuate the above-described frauds or other frauds with regard to stored value cards as they sit on store shelves today. Thus, there is a need for a way to protect such cards and insure that they have not been tampered with or duplicated prior to purchase or activation by an innocent consumer.
There have been proposals and attempts to reduce the occurrence of fraud associated with stored value cards. For example, modifications to card readers or other parts of the activation process have been proposed, but changing existing systems in such ways involves significant cost. Additional steps have been added to the activation process for some cards, such as steps involving pin numbers and web access. However, additional steps reduce the level of convenience that such cards provide to consumers. Overall, there is a need for a way to prevent fraud relating to stored value cards that is effective, and inexpensive to implement, while at the same time not negating the convenience of stored value cards.
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{
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Gunnel rails and rub rails have been used over the years on boats to join hulls and decks together, where the gunnel rails have resilient materials inserted within their channels. See for example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,065,724 to Tritt; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,292,913 to Siebert et al. Other similar bumper assemblies have been proposed for vehicles, docks, and the like, that also use similar expandible resilient material inserts inside of channels. See for example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,473,836 to Halter.
A basic problem with these assemblies is an installer having to insert the resilient material into the gunnel rail channels. Typically, in the boating industry, an installer uses multiple tools such as screwdrivers, hammer, pliers, hand spade, putty knives, duck-bill pliers, and the like, to bang and push the resilient insert material into the channels. This current method is both time consuming and an expensive project in labor costs for the installation. These installation techniques cause scrapes, bumps, dents and tears in the insert material. Additionally, these installation tools damage the channels and surrounding surfaces on the boats and vehicles. Under these conventional types of installation, the insert material strips must be heated to soften the material for use. The strip materials are generally heated in hot boxes or within hot water tanks. After the strip material is heated, it is then installed with the tools described above. Problems occur from these heating techniques. The heating and subsequent cooling of the materials causes non-uniform shrinkage and inconsistent expansion throughout the strip material within the gunnel rail channels resulting in unsightly bulges and depressions. Furthermore, the installers have received injuries such as damaged hands and workmen""s compensation claims through the installation process. The above problems become compounded when the resilient insert materials need to be removed and replaced over time due to natural wear and use.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,897,967 to Barenyi describes a xe2x80x9cprotective strip for motor vehicles . . . xe2x80x9d, title that uses resilient bumpers with backings having expandible plug inserts that pass into recesses in the base walls of the channels. However, this reference requires multiple parts and extra tooling of parts that would not be a practical substitute for existing gunnel rails and rub rails on boats, vehicles, and the like.
Other techniques known for inserting resilient bumper strips into channels have included machines. See for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,758,400 to Miller et al. However, this type of machine would not be a practical alternative for a single user that needs to install the resilient insert bumpers into gunnel rails and rub rails that are already located on the sides of boats, vehicles, and the like. Clearly, this machine would be both expensive in cost and is incapable of being used for already mounted gunnel rails and rub rails.
Other proposals have been made but also fail to overcome the problems described above. See for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,084,533 to Boyer and U.S. Pat. No. 4,903,629 to Mauldin et al.
The first objective of the present invention is to provide a tool to allow a single person the capability of installing and removing resilient bumper insert materials into gunnel rail/rub rails on the side of boats, vehicles, and the like.
The second object of this invention is to provide an inexpensive technique of installing and removing resilient bumper insert materials into gunnel rails/rub rails already located on the sides of boats, vehicles, and the like.
The third object of this invention is to provide a technique of installing and removing resilient bumper insert materials inside of gunnel rails/rub rails that does not mark up, scrape, dent, nor destroy the resilient bumper insert material.
The fourth object of this invention is to provide a technique of installing and removing resilient bumper insert materials into gunnel rails/rub rails, without marking up, scraping, denting nor destroying the gunnel rails/rub rails.
The fifth object of this invention is to provide a technique of installing and removing resilient bumper insert materials into gunnel rails/rub rails, without injuring the installer.
A preferred embodiment of the invention includes a handheld tool for inserting resilient bumpers into the channels on gunnel rails and rub rails that are located on the sides of vehicles such as boats, motor homes and trailers. The handheld tool has a first end for a handgrip and a second end with a rotatable rollers and wheels, where the second end is laid over the front portion of the elongated resilient strip and causes the rear portion of the elongated strip to be inserted into the channels on the side of the vehicles. Each of the channels have a rear wall for being attached to the side of the vehicle, and inwardly bending lips for surrounding an opening to the channel, wherein the rear portion of the elongated resilient strip is inserted into the opening of the channel. The elongated resilient strips have a backwall forming the rear portion, the backwall having an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the upper edge and the lower edge become compressed towards one another when being inserted within the channel and expand when the rollers of the handheld tool passes over the channel. The rotatable wheels and rollers on the second end of the handheld tool have dual rollers separated from one another, wherein the rear portion of the elongated resilient strip is compressed together by the strip passing through the dual rollers. Each of the dual rollers has an indentation groove running about the perimeters thereof. The second end of the tool further includes nut heads connected to gearwheels, wherein rotating the nut head rotates the gear wheels causing both dual rollers to rotate. A socket wrench can be used for fitting about the nut heads, wherein rotating the socket wrench rotates the wheels and causes strip material to be pulled through the wheels while simultaneously being compressed. The user simultaneously holds the tool against the channel openings of the gunnel rails and rub rails and slides the tool against the gunnel rails/rub rails at a tilt angle of approximately 30 degrees to the gunnel rails/rub rails, while rotating the socket wrench causing the strip material to be inserted into the channel openings. After the tool passes over a gunnel rail/rub rail section, portions of the strip material expand into the inside lip portions of the gunnel rail/rub rail locking the strip material in place.
The strip material can be removed by prying up an edge of the material from the channel of the gunnel rail/rub rail, and using the tool reversing the installation steps described above.
The gunnel rails/rub rails with resilient bumpers can be used with other objects such as but not limited to tables, shelves, walls, and the like.
Further objects and advantages of this invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of a presently preferred embodiment which is illustrated schematically in the accompanying drawings.
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Both in response to government regulations and a general desire for safety, rope grabs or similar devices have become a requirement for workers working in elevated positions. Such rope grabs typically fasten to a safety belt or safety harness fastened about the worker via a lanyard. The rope grab is then attached to a safety line which is in turn fastened independently of the scaffold or other movable structure upon which the worker may be working.
Prior art devices have proven less than totally acceptable for several different reasons. Some devices require the worker to manually adjust the rope grab on the safety line as the worker moves vertically. Other known prior art devices merely use a pivoting arm which is attached to the lanyard at one end and at the other end which bears against the rope. Such a device utilizes the weight of the falling worker to pivot the arm into contact with the safety line in order to provide a braking effect. It can be appreciated in such a device, however, that if the rope grab freely slides down the safety line at a rate equal to the speed of the falling worker, no stopping force can be applied. One known prior art device does provide a system whereby both inertia stopping and positive actuated stopping are provided. This device, however, does not allow the rope grab to be placed on a safety line intermediate the ends of the safety line. Due to the tubular nature of such a prior art device, the rope grab must be placed over the end of the rope. Such a device is often less than desirable as it is commonly necessary to attach the rope grab at some point intermediate the ends of the safety line.
Therefore, it is an object of this invention to provide a rope grab which may be easily attached to the safety line intermediate the ends thereof. It is a further object of this invention to provide a rope grab which utilizes both inertia and direct actuation for stopping. It is yet another object of this invention to provide a rope grab which does not cause damage to the safety line. Still another object of this invention is to provide a rope grab which prevents roll-out of the lanyard attaching hook. It is yet another object of this invention to provide a rope grab wherein the abruptness with which the braking force is applied may be varied.
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Programming languages can be viewed as belonging to one of three levels: low, middle, and high. One example of a low-level programming language is assembly language, which is a mnemonic representation of machine language intended to be understandable by humans. In contrast, a high-level programming language such as Java uses syntax and concepts that more closely align with human reasoning. A high-level programming language also provides high levels of run-time access security and memory protection at the expense of some program execution speed. “Mid-level” programming languages, as used herein, have some of the “look and feel” of high-level programming languages in that, in comparison to low level languages, they appear and read in a fashion more similar to ordinary human reasoning. Mid-level programming languages allow a programmer to directly manipulate and access memory addresses, and as such, they are more computationally efficient than high level languages. In other words, for improved execution speed, mid-level programming languages omit the run-time memory access checks that a high level language might perform. Such languages may also allow direct access to memory for driving hardware devices that have control registers at fixed addresses. However, mid-level programming languages allow a program to access an illegal memory address, and as such, are often dangerous. The illegal memory accesses sometimes occur without the detection of any error at the time. Potential consequences include subsequent unpredictable behavior, and accumulated errors that result in an illegal operation and the termination of the program.
Examples of mid-level programming languages are C and C++. The version of the C language familiar to most C programmers at present is the ANSI 1989 C programming language referred herein as C89, that has the mid-level features discussed above. C++ is an object-oriented version of C89. As used herein, the term C99 refers to the publication: International Standard ISO/IEC 9899:1999(E) Programming Languages—C. As an improvement on the C89 standard, the C99 standard is used throughout this specification to illustrate examples of the possible logical mistakes, dangers, and limitations associated with mid-level programming languages, particularly with respect to the way in which mid-level programming languages handle arrays.
Since this application includes programming terms, some of these terms are introduced and defined below. These definitions are intended to assist the reader with understanding the description contained herein. Unless otherwise stated, these definitions are not intended to override the ordinary meaning that one of ordinary skill in the art would give them upon reading this description and the appended claims.
A language is defined by a grammar, such as the rules that define good sentence structures in spoken languages. Programming languages are used to express a program as text—usually contained in files. Files can be translated into low-level machine code or assembler for a target computer type by a computer program called a compiler. A cross compiler is a compiler that runs on one computer and produces machine code targeted for a different type of computer. A native compiler runs on the target computer or a computer of the same type. The resulting low-level machine code is placed in an executable file. The file can be loaded into memory to run on the target computer.
A compiler will not compile programs that do not comply with its grammar, which is the basis for programming language definitions. Some aspects of a programming language are lexical or word-based. For example, certain keywords are used to express certain language ideas and instructions, similar to verbs. Special characters or character groupings like ‘=’ or ‘+=’ or ‘;’ have properties similar to keywords. Identifiers are similar to nouns, and can take any alphanumeric name, excluding spaces, which allows complicated names to be used.
When defining the syntax of a grammar, the use of angle brackets like <numeric_expression> or <file_name> for example, indicates any text that matches the named type. Comments appear after //, and remain comments until the end of the line of text. A simple syntax is defined by the following example:<variable_identifier>=<numeric_expression>; // assign value to variableVariable names are types of identifiers that can hold values. For example, the syntax above matches only the first two lines of text below:
my_value = 1 + 3;// match: left side is variable, right is numeric constantcounter = 4.3;// match as abovea + b = 3;// no match as a + b is not an identifier.The compiler itself can perform some compile-time calculations on a program, such as evaluating constant numeric expressions. Other calculations depend on input to the compiled program when it is running. These calculations are run-time calculations, which are performed when the compiled program is running on a computer.
An array is an arrangement of information in one or more dimensions, such as a 1-dimensional list, or a color component of a 2-dimensional image. Multi-dimensional arrays are those with two dimensions or higher. The individual data items in the array are called elements. All elements in the array are of the same data type; and therefore all elements in the array are also the same size. The array elements are often stored contiguously in the computer's memory, and the subscript or index of the first element is normally zero in all the dimensions applied to the array. The array name, the element data type, the number of array dimensions, and the size of each dimension are all declared in some manner. Each occurrence of the array name in a program is an array identifier. The element data type also can yield the element size.
A pointer is a reference to an address in the computer memory. De-referencing a pointer provides access to the data in the memory that it points to, either to read the memory data, or over-write it with new data. An array identifier contains a pointer to the base address of the array in memory. The base address is the memory address of the first element in the array.
Processors are used in many different environments. For example, processors are used to perform the central processing tasks in a general-purpose computer, and are used to perform the more dedicated processing tasks of a device embedded in an appliance. A processor is a device that is programmed to execute a sequence of machine instructions stored in memory. Two characteristics that distinguish processors include the set of tasks they are expected to perform, and the speed at which they execute the tasks.
Digital Signal Processing (DSP) is a common term used to describe algorithms or special sequences of arithmetic operations on data to perform various functions. This data is usually represented in arrays. Typical examples include motion estimation, data compression and decompression, filtering, and re-sampling. DSP tasks are relatively easily described in a software program that is compiled to run on a processor. In comparison to a dedicated hardware design, processors provide flexibility as they facilitate algorithm changes.
In most DSP applications, the size of arrays can only be established at run-time. The C89 standard does not support run-time variable-length multi-dimensional arrays, making DSP coding difficult in the C language. The C99 standard addresses this shortcoming by including support for variable-length automatic arrays. C99 also includes the ability to declare arrays anywhere in the code, and to declare arrays of any number of dimensions and size, using expressions for each dimension that can be evaluated at run-time. The compiler generates machine code to allocate memory to store array elements before the elements are accessed. At the machine level, memory allocation usually occurs in units of bytes. A byte is the smallest processor-addressable unit in memory, which usually is 8 bits. The amount of memory allocated in bytes is equal to the total number of array elements multiplied by the element size in bytes. The compiler must also generate machine code to allow array element access, so that a processor can read or write data into array elements.
Subroutines are, as their name suggests, routines or functions that are called from another routine. A routine often calls subroutines to reduce its own complexity and enhance its effectiveness. In fact, almost all routines are called, and they are therefore subroutines too. Useful subroutines tend to encapsulate or embody a useful programming concept into a single re-usable block of code. Subroutines can be designed to be re-usable in many different situations, and they may be called from many different places.
Automatic storage is declared storage that is only available after its declaration, and only within the scope of a block of statements in which it is declared. The storage is released when code execution leaves the block.
The heap represents a pool of available memory that is usable by programs running on a computer. Subroutines are used in C to dynamically allocate a contiguous region of memory and free it after it is no longer needed. For example, C code syntax such as:<identifier>=malloc(<nr_of_items_requested>*sizeof(<element_type>))andfree(<identifier>)is often used. The sizeof(<element_type>) expression obtains the size of each array element in bytes from the element type. The malloc( ) function requests memory in byte quantities at run-time. The malloc( ) return value is a pointer to the allocated memory base address. This value is stored for use as a handle to the allocated memory. The memory is dynamically allocated. In other words, at run-time, an amount of memory is requested and then allocated. A handle is a value that can be used to selectively access an object as a whole (in this case, the object is the allocated memory). A handle is usually a pointer into memory that is used to select an object as a whole. In this case, the handle can be given to free( ) to free the dynamically allocated memory resource. In C, this value is also a pointer, but given its other role, it is preferable that a handle should not be modified using pointer arithmetic. The handle value could be modified and restored, but this practice is dangerous in mid-level languages, and not even allowed in high level languages.
The new C99 standard provides variable length array support so that as far as the programmer is concerned, the malloc( ) and free( ) calls are not explicitly required for dynamically allocated array element storage. This is very different from the C89 standard which required these functions for variable sized arrays. For example, in C99, a two-dimensional array can be declared using:<element_type><array_identifier>[<height_expr>][<width_expr>]wherein <width_expr> or <height_expr> use expressions that must each evaluate to an integer at run-time. The underlying implementation of array element storage allocation in variable length arrays by the C99 compiler is not defined. Array element storage allocation in a typical compiler may therefore use the malloc( ) and free( ) functions, as these functions are generic and commonly available. A C99 variable length array declaration can occur anywhere within a block of program statements in a subroutine prior to use. The scope of the array is automatic, i.e. array access is limited to within the block of statements in which it is declared. For example, array element writes to the two-dimensional array declared above can use assignment statement syntax of the form:<array_identifier>[<row_index>][<column_index>]=<expression>.Array elements can also be read as a value in expressions.
By convention, major dimensions represent array sizes or access indices in higher dimensions. The most major dimension is represented as the left-most term in square brackets following an array identifier. In contrast, minor dimensions represent lower-dimensional array sizes or access indices to the right. The <row_index> is major in the array access expression above, and the column index is minor. In the C language, according to the two-dimensional array declaration and access above, the values of <row_index> should be in the inclusive range 0 to <height_expr>−1, i.e. the most major index should comply with the size of the corresponding most major dimension size in the array, and so on down the more minor indices. If the number of indices applied to an array exceeds the declared array dimensionality then the remaining “unused” indices are applied to the array element by the compiler. This implies that the array elements must be arrays themselves in this case. If not (that is, all the indices cannot be used up), then there is a programming error. If the number of indices is less than the declared dimensionality, then the elements are arrays themselves, with sizes corresponding to the remaining unused declared minor sizes.
In hardware, memory is accessed as one-dimensional contiguous storage that is indexed by the memory address. In C, a base address is provided for an allocated region of memory, and then one-dimensional array access can be achieved by adding an index offset (scaled by the array clement size) to the base address. If the base address is a memory pointer referenced by an array identifier in the C code, and if the type of data pointed to by the pointer is declared as the array element type, then the size of the elements are known at compile time. This allows the compiler to generate machine code to allow array elements to be accessed using a one-dimensional index without knowing anything about the size of the array.
An array base address passed down to a subroutine may actually have various attributes, such as its base address, and the number and size of its dimensions. The C99 standard treats array references as base addresses, so a compiler only knows about array attributes from their declarations within the scope of a block. In the C language, each subroutine can be separately compiled, so if a subroutine calls another and passes an array reference, a simple base address cannot contain array attribute information. The C language allows the definition and use of structures, which are aggregates of data. Members of the structure are accessed using the syntax <structure_reference>-><member>. Structures can be defined to include array attribute information, but only a reference to a member of a structure can obtain the array base address. For example, array->base_address[row][column] can be indexed. This syntax is cumbersome.
C99 declared arrays are either implemented as arrays of arrays, or by using index mapping expressions. In either case, multi-dimensional array access is slow. The array-of-arrays implementation uses a one-dimensional array to store references to other base addresses of sub-arrays in memory. Each sub-array may contain references to other arrays, etc. The number of array dimensions defines the number of one-dimensional array accesses required to obtain the desired array element. The index mapping approach performs calculations on sets of indices to map them onto an equivalent single index used to access an element from the one-dimensional array memory. In this case, an additional multiply is required for each additional array dimension.
To improve the execution speed of compiled C programs (or any mid-level programming language), index ranges are not automatically checked at compile-time or run-time. If out-of-bounds array indices are used, the underlying array access mechanism may access memory outside that allocated for the array, possibly causing a running program to terminate.
Many C programmers try to improve program speed in C by recognizing that for many algorithms, array elements are often accessed sequentially. Therefore memory access patterns such as: write to A[0][0], write to A[0][1], write to A[0][2] . . . are common. Programmers may write code to avoid indexing altogether, and instead use pointer arithmetic. For example, the code A[0]=1; A[1]=2; A[2]=3; . . . can be replaced by A[0]=1; A=A+1; A[0]=2; A=A+1; A[0]=3; A=A+1; etc. In other words, the memory pointed to by A is repeatedly written to, and then the pointer A itself is changed. The cumulative changes to the pointer A must be correct for the code to operate correctly, otherwise A may point outside of the original array bounds.
Since execution speed is important within a DSP environment, mid-level languages like C are often used with pointer arithmetic. The result is code that is complex and fragile, as it relies on the correct accumulation of address calculations throughout the entire program. Also, using pointer arithmetic makes programs harder to understand and maintain, because valid pointer de-referencing depends on correct prior address calculations. These calculations could be spread out in the program, so they have to be understood over a large scope before each instance of a de-reference can be understood.
Many programmers have to deal with legacy code. They may have to write new code to replace a lower level subroutine, and deal with pointers to arrays as inputs to the subroutine. It would be helpful if the programmer could access the memory as an array, rather than using pointer arithmetic. The C99 standard supports declaring a variable size array input to a subroutine, but it does not support the use of general expressions for array sizes within declarations. In many situations, legacy code may pass down an array base address, and other array information that is used by a subroutine to perform various array-based tasks. There is a requirement to be able to access this data using an array view based on calculations on the passed parameters. The C99 standard allows an array declaration within a subroutine declaration, and the number and size of array dimensions can be a direct function of the input parameters. However, insertion of non-trivial code in a declaration is not possible, thus limiting its use. In addition, as there is no way to release the view and impose new views within the scope of the subroutine.
Many DSP applications generate an output image based on a source or input image. Information outside of the bounds of the input image is often required to properly generate the output image. For example, digital filters may take several input array elements to generate an output array element. The input elements used are usually clustered around the output element if one visualizes the input and output arrays as superimposed images.
If an output element is at the edge of the output array, then input elements needed to calculate its value may lie beyond the edge of the input array. DSP programmers make decisions about how to treat out-of-bounds indexing, but then they write obscure code to control the behavior of their program at the edges of the source or input image. The intentions of boundary handling code are often not explicit, and the code tends to be very complex and error-prone, particularly when pointer arithmetic and multi-dimensional arrays are being used together.
Therefore, there is a need in the art to provide a system and method that overcomes these problems by including language features that allow programmers to use array indexing schemes instead of pointer arithmetic in both new and legacy code, and allowing the programmer to simply and explicitly specify array access behavior for invalid array access indices.
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The inventions relate to semiconductor integrated circuit devices (for example, memory devices); and more particularly, in one aspect, to circuitry and techniques to write and read, sense and/or sample a data state to/from memory cells of a memory array and/or device, for example, a semiconductor dynamic random access memory (“DRAM”) device, wherein the memory cells have an electrically floating body in which an electrical charge is stored.
There is a continuing trend to employ and/or fabricate advanced integrated circuits using techniques, materials and devices that improve performance, reduce leakage current and enhance overall scaling. Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) is a material in which such devices may be fabricated on or in (hereinafter collectively “on”). Such devices are known as SOI devices and include, for example, partially depleted (PD), fully depleted (FD) devices, multiple gate devices (for example, double or triple gate), and Fin-FET. SOI devices have demonstrated improved performance (for example, speed), reduced leakage current characteristics and considerable enhancement in scaling.
One type of DRAM memory cell is based on, among other things, a floating body effect of SOI transistors. (See, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/450,238, Fazan et al., filed Jun. 10, 2003 and entitled “Semiconductor Device”, hereinafter “Semiconductor Memory Device Patent Application”). In this regard, the memory cell may consist of a PD or a FD SOI transistor (or transistor formed in bulk material/substrate) having a gate dielectric, which is disposed adjacent to the body and separated therefrom by a channel. The body region of the transistor is electrically floating in view of the insulation or non-conductive region (for example, in bulk-type material/substrate) disposed beneath the body region. The state of the memory cell is determined by the concentration of charge within the body region of the SOI transistor.
With reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, in one embodiment, semiconductor memory cell array 10 includes a plurality of memory cells 12 each consisting of transistor 14 having gate 16, body region 18, which is electrically floating, source region 20 and drain region 22. The body region 18 is disposed between source region 20 and drain region 22. Moreover, body region 18 is disposed on or above region 24, which may be an insulation region (for example, in SOI material/substrate) or non-conductive region (for example, in bulk-type material/substrate). The insulation or non-conductive region may be disposed on or in substrate 26.
Data is written into or read from a selected memory cell by applying suitable control signals to selected word line(s) 28, selected source line(s) 30 and/or selected bit line(s) 32. In response, charge carriers are accumulated in or emitted and/or ejected from electrically floating body region 18 wherein the data states are defined by the amount of carriers within electrically floating body region 18. Notably, the entire contents of the Semiconductor Memory Device Patent Application, including, for example, the features, attributes, architectures, configurations, materials, techniques and advantages described and illustrated therein, are incorporated by reference herein.
As mentioned above, memory cell 12 of array 10 operates by accumulating in or emitting/ejecting majority carriers (electrons or holes) 34 from body region 18 of, for example, an N-channel transistor. (See, FIGS. 2A and 2B). In this regard, accumulating majority carriers (in this example, “holes”) 34 in body region 18 of memory cells 12 via, for example, impact ionization near source region 20 and/or drain region 22, is representative of a logic high or “1” data state. (See, FIG. 2A). Emitting or ejecting majority carriers 34 from body region 18 via, for example, forward biasing the source/body junction and/or the drain/body junction, is representative of a logic low or “0” data state. (See, FIG. 2B).
Notably, for at least the purposes of this discussion, a logic high or State “1” corresponds to an increased concentration of majority carries in the body region relative to an unprogrammed device and/or a device that is programmed with a logic low or State “0”. In contrast, a logic low or State “0” corresponds to a reduced concentration of majority carries in the body region relative to an unprogrammed device and/or a device that is programmed with a logic high or State “1”.
As mentioned above, conventional techniques to write or program a logic low (State “0”) in memory cell 12 may be accomplished by removing majority carriers from body region 18 through either source region 20 or drain region 22 of electrically floating body transistor 14 of memory cell 12. In this regard, in one embodiment, majority carriers (in this example, “holes”) 34 in body region 18 of memory cells 12 are removed from memory cell 12 through drain region 22. (See, FIG. 3A). A positive current 36 (electrons flowing in opposite direction) flows from drain region 22 to source region 20 due to a channel forming in a portion of body region 18 immediately beneath gate oxide 38 when writing or programming a logic low (State “0”). Where the majority carriers (in this example, “holes”) 34 are removed from memory cell 12 through source region 20, positive current 36 (electrons flowing in opposite direction) flows from source region 20 to drain region 22 as a result of channel formation when writing or programming a logic low (State “0”). (See, FIG. 3B).
Conventional techniques may employ a two-cycle write or program technique to store a desired data state in memory cells 12. In this regard, in one embodiment, in the first cycle a logic low (State “0”) is written into all memory cells 12 connected to word line 28; in the second cycle, a logic high (State “1”) is selectively written into memory cells 12 while an inhibit signal or voltage is applied to those memory cells 12 that are to maintain a logic low or State “0”. In this way, certain memory cells 12 connected to a given word line may be written or programmed to a logic low (State “0”) using a first word line voltage; and certain other memory cells 12, also connected to the given word line, may be written or programmed to a logic high (State “1”) using a second word line voltage. (See, for example, application Ser. No. 10/840,009, which was filed by Ferrant et al. on May 6, 2004, and entitled “Semiconductor Memory Device and Method of Operating Same”).
Several techniques may be implemented to read the data stored in the memory cell. For example, a current sense amplifier may be employed to read the data stored in memory cells. In this regard, a current sense amplifier may compare the cell current to a reference current, for example, the current of a reference cell. From that comparison, it may be determined whether the memory cell contained a logic high data state (relatively more majority carriers contained within body region) or logic low data state (relatively less majority carriers contained within body region). The differences of the charge stored in the body of the transistor affect the threshold voltage of the transistor, which in turn affects the current conducted by the transistor when switched into its conductive state.
In particular, with reference to FIG. 4, sense amplifier 40 (for example, a cross-coupled sense amplifier) compares the current conducted by transistor 14 of memory cell 12 with a reference current generated by reference current generator 42. The magnitude of the reference current generally lies between the magnitudes of the currents conducted in the logic high data state and logic low data state of memory cell 12. The sense amplifier 40 compares the reference current to the current produced by memory cell 12 (the current varies depending on whether memory cell 12 is either in a logic high data state or logic low data state). Based on that comparison, sense amplifier 40 generates or outputs an output signal (on output 44) having a positive or negative polarity, depending upon whether memory cell 12 stored a logic high or logic low binary data state. (See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,567,330; and “Memory Design Using a One-Transistor Cell on SOI”, IEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits, Vol. 37, No. 11, Nov. 2002).
The data sense circuitry/architecture and technique of the prior art have a number of shortcomings. For example, the data sense circuitry/architecture and technique of the prior art typically employ multiplexer circuitry to selectively apply one or more bit lines to the input of a sense amplifier bank. (See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,567,330 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,650,565). Such circuitry/architectures often implement a pitch that differs from the pitch of the memory cell array. The bit line selection circuitry often adds complexity and latency to the read as well as write back operations. In addition, the bit line selection circuitry may introduce unwanted capacitance and inductance which may reduce the margin of the read operation. Finally, incorporation of bit line selection circuitry into the architecture typically eliminates the possibility of reading or writing an entire row of data.
There is a need for a data sense architecture and technique that eliminate the shortcomings of the prior art architectures and technique. For example, there is a need for an architecture and technique that is suitably and properly pitched to the array of memory cells. In this way, an entire row of data may be read, sampled and/or sensed without the complexity and latency of data sense architectures and techniques that implement bit line selection circuitry.
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Surface mounted electrical components are rapidly gaining acceptance in industry. It has been estimated that nearly one half of all electrical and electronic components may be directly surface mounted to a circuit substrate by the year 1990. Consequently, the use of lead wires with such electronic and electrical components and through holes in circuit substrates will be sharply reduced in their usage.
Presently, ceramic chip capacitors are the most commonly used surface mounted capacitors because such ceramic chip capacitors tolerate the high temperature exposure required for reflow or wave soldering manufacturing techniques, for attachment of components to circuit substrates. Metallized film capacitors and film foil capacitors have been used very little in surface mounted applications because of the high cost and greater size required to thermally protect the metallized film from such high temperature soldering techniques than attend the use of ceramic chip capacitors for similar applications.
For example, polyester film melts at about 252.degree. C. However, for an electronic part such as a capacitor, to survive wave soldering, it must withstand temperatures as high as 260.degree. C. for a period of up to ten seconds without suffering degradation in its physical or electrical properties.
One attempt to provide a leadless, surface mountable electrical component of a capacitor type has been to attach flat leads to a film capacitor section to form a capacitor assembly, which assembly is then insert molded to provide a molded package with the flat leads formed to lie adjacent the package and accessible for electrical connection. Such a package can be made capable of withstanding the thermal exposure of wave soldering or other soldering techniques sufficiently to protect its encased capacitor section. Such packages, however, are significantly more expensive than a comparable box-type capacitor where a capacitor is inserted in a plastic box and sealed in that box with such material as epoxy with leads protruding from the interior of the epoxy sealed box for electrical connection within a circuit. Thus, in view of the greater expense of the insert molded package flat lead structure described above, film capacitors (i.e. metallized film and film foil capacitors) are penalized because the economics of production costs bias industry toward ceramics and away from film capacitors for surface mountable applications.
Such economic bias is unfortunate because film capacitors, such as polyester metallized film capacitors, exhibit improved performance characteristics over many ceramic types of capacitors. Improved self healing characteristics and a higher production yield with attendant lower cost to manufacture while more consistently meeting tight specifications are but two of the improved performance characteristics of metallized film capacitors over ceramic capacitors.
It would be advantageous for circuit designers to have metallized film capacitors available for surface mounting applications, but smaller size and lower cost of manufacture than are obtainable with prior art devices and methods are economically necessary to promote sufficient usage of film capacitors in surface mounted devices to justify a manufacturer's equipping his plant for production of such capacitors.
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Re: Bastnaesite
Generally speaking, the term "bastnaesite" denotes a group of minerals which can be regarded as being comprised of fluorocarbonates of certain rare earth metals. However, the nomenclature used to describe such materials is often rather vague. For example, since the chief components of bastnaesite are the "rare earths", such materials are sometimes referred to as rare earth oxides. These materials also are commonly referred to as "lanthanides". This term is obviously a corruption of the word lanthanum, which of course is the first member (or lowest atomic number member) of the lanthanide group in the periodic table. Those familiar with this art also will appreciate that it is not at all an uncommon practice to use the symbol for the lanthanides ("Ln") to generally denote all of the lanthanides when they are considered as a group. Similarly, it also is common practice to refer to the various oxides of the entire lanthanide group as LnO--and to their oxyflourides as LnOF. Given all of these considerations, it is quite common to designate the chemical makeup of bastnaesites, in general, by the formula: (Ce,La)OF, even though such materials contain many other elements. For example, mineral bastnaesite contains from about 65 to about 80% by weight of assorted rare earth elements (calculated as rare earth oxides) with its primary metallic components being lanthanum and cerium. This fact explains the widespread use of (Ce,La)OF as the chemical formula for these materials. However, bastnaesite minerals almost always contain small proportions of various other rare earth elements such as praseodymium, neodymium, samarium, europium, and gadolinium. For example, chemical analysis of a typical bastnaesite mineral might show proportions of individual rare earth elements (calculated as oxides) to the total rare earth elements (also calculated as oxides) which fall within the general ranges: 45 to 55 wt. % CeO.sub.2, 29 to 35 wt. % La.sub.2 O.sub.3, 11 to 15 wt. % Nd.sub.2 O.sub.3, 2.5 to 5.5 wt. % Pr.sub.2 O.sub.3, 0.3 to 0.7 wt. % Sm.sub.2 O.sub.3, 0.1 to 0.3 wt. % Gd.sub.2 O.sub.3, 0.05 to 0.15 wt. % Eu.sub.2 O.sub.3 and 0.05 to 0.35 wt. % of other rare earth elements.
Next, it should be noted that bastnaesite is a somewhat chemically reactive mineral. Consequently, it can be modified by relatively moderate chemical and/or physical treatment processes such as steaming, calcining and acid leaching. For instance, when naturally occurring bastnaesite is calcined in air at a temperature around 700.degree. C., it undergoes a chemical reaction wherein some of its rare earth fluorocarbonates are converted to rare earth oxyfluorides. By way of another example of such modifications, mineral bastnaesite can be leached with certain strong acids in order to withdraw its strontium and barium content. Be all of this as it may, this invention contemplates use of either naturally occurring forms of bastnaesite or any number of chemically and/or physically treated forms of that mineral. Hence, for the purposes of this patent disclosure, the terms "bastnaesite", "treated bastnaesite", "bastnaesite mineral(s)", "bastnaesite-like materials" etc should be taken to include not only those raw mineral forms of bastnaesite found in nature, but also a wide variety of physically or chemically treated forms of bastnaesite minerals--indeed, for the purposes of this patent disclosure, these terms should even be taken to include any synthetic material having a distribution of rare earth elements to total rare earth elements substantially similar to those of naturally occurring bastnaesite minerals.
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Conventional punching consists of hitting a workpiece between a punch and a die, in such a way that the punch pierces the workpiece, and enters the die, creating a hole in said workpiece. This process is an example of shearing processes, where the workpiece is deformed until the ultimate strength is overcome, and the affected section breaks.
If the punch is performed in a sheet workpiece which is too thick, the punching operation produces a very poor quality result: when the punch enters the workpiece, a first zone with a burnished cut is created, but this regular cut only lasts for approximately the first third of the sheet thickness. Due to growing shear stresses, the rest of the inner shape of the hole is quite irregular, with a pseudo conical shape, the diameter of the hole growing wider as the punch goes deeper, further producing a burr at the end of the cut and also producing microscopic cracks. This scenario is not adequate for workpieces which are to be used in responsibility structures, as, besides the bad tolerances of the hole shape, these microscopic cracks could cause the failure of the workpiece and the collapse of the structure when it is subjected to cyclic stresses.
Drilling is preferred for those cases, as it produces a much more regular finishing, with better dimensional tolerances and without said cracks. Drilling is an example of chip removing processes, where a tool is used to locally cut a thin layer of the material thanks to a fast rotatory movement. However, drilling is much slower and more expensive than punching, since the drill advance direction is not the same as the drill cut direction (which is rotative). A punching procedure that produced a good surface finishing, without the conical shape and without the microscopic cracks would be more advantageous than drilling, as it would further be cheaper and faster.
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To improve the mechanical properties, workability, and weldability of steel materials, the general practice has been for example to acceleratedly cool a high temperature state steel material right after being hot rolled while processing it on a rolling line and give the steel material a predetermined cooling history. However, the uneven cooling occurring when cooling a steel material becomes a cause of shape defects or work strain in the steel material. Fast improvement is desired to meet with the increasingly tougher demands for better quality of steel materials.
To solve these problems, there is the method of using a plurality of pairs of top and bottom constraining rolls so as to constrain the steel material and prevent heat deformation. However, even with this method, while a steel material with a good shape is obtained, sometimes residual stress inside the steel material manifests itself as deformation at the time the material is worked at the customer side. This is therefore not a fundamental solution. Therefore, uniformly cooling the steel material is the best means for solution.
As a cooling method for achieving uniform cooling, in the method of cooling by using conventional spray nozzles to spray a cooling medium, that is, water, on the steel material, the facilities have been designed so that uniform amounts of water are sprayed in the width direction of the steel material. FIG. 1 shows the nozzle arrangement of a steel material cooling apparatus using conventional plateau shaped water distribution flat sprays. The spray nozzles 1 are arranged in a line at a suitable nozzle pitch S0 in the direction perpendicular to processing so that the distribution of water in the entire region in the direction perpendicular to processing becomes uniform. In the processing direction of the steel material, the adjoining spray regions 2 are arranged so as not to interfere with each other.
However, in a cooling apparatus of this nozzle arrangement, the cooling ability becomes higher at the center of the spray ranges of the nozzles (spray regions 2) compared with the peripheries, so a uniform distribution of cooling ability cannot be obtained in the steel material in the direction perpendicular to processing and uneven cooling sometimes occurs.
As a method of using spray nozzles for uniform cooling, Japanese Patent Publication (A) No. 6-238320 discloses the method of reducing the variation in impact pressure of cooling water in a single spray range to within ±20%. Further, Japanese Patent Publication (A) No. 8-238518 proposes the method of arranging spray nozzles so that spray interference regions are formed. Further, Japanese Patent Publication (A) No. 2004-306064 concludes that uniform cooling can be achieved by having all points in the width direction of a cooled surface pass through coolant spray impact regions at least twice.
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1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to an exhaust gas control system for an internal combustion engine, and a method for controlling the same.
2. Description of the Related Art
As a technology for reducing the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx) discharged from an internal combustion engine, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) for causing a portion of the exhaust gas to flow into an intake system to recirculate it back to the internal combustion engine has been suggested. There is also a technology in which a high-pressure EGR unit and a low-pressure EGR unit are provided to an internal combustion engine with a turbocharger, and EGR is performed while the EGR unit used for EGR is changed between the high-pressure EGR unit and the low-pressure EGR unit or both the high-pressure EGR unit and the low-pressure EGR unit are used in combination, based on the operating state of the internal combustion engine, as described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-076456 (JP-A-2005-076456). The high-pressure EGR unit recirculates a portion of the exhaust gas back to the internal combustion engine through a high-pressure EGR passage that provides communication between an exhaust passage, at a portion upstream of a turbine of a turbocharger, and an intake passage, at a portion downstream of a compressor of the turbocharger. The low-pressure EGR unit recirculates a portion of the exhaust gas back to the internal combustion engine through a low-pressure EGR passage that provides communication between the exhaust passage, at a portion downstream of the turbine, and the intake passage, at a portion upstream of the compressor.
Under the low-temperature environment, for example, when the engine coolant temperature is low or when the atmospheric temperature is low, if the low-temperature air passes through an intake system, such as an intake passage, or an EGR system, such as a low-pressure EGR passage, during the fuel-supply cutoff operation, the low-temperature air is taken in the internal combustion engine when the operation mode is switched from the fuel-supply cutoff operation mode to the normal operation mode. As a result, the temperature of the intake air may excessively decrease, resulting in inconveniences such as incomplete combustion and an increase in the discharge amount of hydrocarbon (HC).
Because the low-pressure EGR passage is relatively long, it takes relatively long time until the low-temperature gas that passes through the low-pressure EGR passage during the fuel-supply cutoff operation is replaced with the exhaust gas discharged from the internal combustion engine after the operation mode is switched from the fuel-supply cutoff operation mode to the normal operation mode. Therefore, the above-described inconveniences are likely to occur in the internal combustion engine provided with a low-pressure EGR unit.
To avoid such inconveniences, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 08-232784 (JP-A-07-232784) describes the following technology. According to the technology, a bypass passage through which the intake air bypasses an intercooler is provided to an intake passage. When an internal combustion engine is under a low-temperature environment, intake air is caused to flow through the bypass passage. In this way, excessive cooling of the intake air is suppressed. However, when this technology is employed, the bypass passage and a selector valve, which changes the flow path of the intake air between the path toward the intercooler and the path toward the bypass passage, needs to be provided to an intake system. This causes inconveniences such as a reduction in ease of mounting the internal combustion engine on a vehicle and an increase in cost.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an ink-jet printer and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to an ink-jet printer which can be operated by power supply from, e.g., either a rechargeable secondary battery or a power supply unit of converting a commercial power source into a DC power source, acting as an operation power source, and a power control method thereof.
2. Related Background Art
In recent years, various electronic apparatuses such as a portable personal computer, a portable telephone, a video camera, a portable printer and the like have appeared on the market.
These electronic apparatuses are downsized in consideration of portability, and can be used in a state, i.e., a cordless state, being not connected to a household power source.
Therefore, each of these electronic apparatuses is constituted to be able to be used without connecting it to the household AC power source through a power cord, in such a way that a battery is built into the electronic apparatus or a unit such as a battery pack having a battery built-in is externally connected to the electronic apparatus.
As the power source to be used for these electronic apparatuses, a rechargeable battery, i.e., a so-called secondary battery, is frequently used. Here, as the secondary batteries, a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel-hydrogen battery, a lithium-ion battery and the like are known.
On one hand, an external power supply unit (generally called an AC adapter) of converting the AC power source into a DC power source can be connected to the electronic apparatus so that it can be operated also based on the AC power source in a house, an office or the like. Also, a current to charge the secondary battery is supplied from the AC adapter.
The secondary battery is generally charged in a case where the AC power source connected to the electronic apparatus is turned on and the electronic apparatus has electric power in reserve because it does not perform high-current driving such as a mechanical operation or the like, or in a case where the electronic apparatus is in a power-off state.
Therefore, even while the electronic apparatus is not powered, if the AC adapter is being connected to the electronic apparatus, it is necessary to be able to automatically charge the secondary battery without any user's operation.
For this reason, in the case where the above electronic apparatus is not powered, the structure to shut off the power from the AC power source to the AC adapter by a mechanical switch is not adopted generally. Instead, even when the electronic apparatus is not powered, the power is supplied to the electronic apparatus to operate a built-in MPU (microprocessor unit), whereby on and off states of the power switch of the electronic apparatus are always detected.
In such a structure, to decrease power consumption while the power switch is turned off, generally, clock frequencies of the MPU and a control circuit for controlling the electronic apparatus are decreased as compared with the case where the power switch is turned on, or the clock frequencies are stopped.
However, in the above conventional case, although the lower consumption as above is achieved, it is still necessary to supply the power to a logic circuit including the MPU of the electronic apparatus, whereby it is not avoided that the electronic apparatus consumes the electric power more than a certain value.
Moreover, the AC adapter consumes the electric power of about 0.3 W to 0.5 W even in an unloaded state that the electronic apparatus is not powered, and the power consumption tends to increase with accelerating speed if the electronic apparatus performs some operation.
Therefore, in order to suppress the power consumption to about 0.5 W and below in the state that an overall system including the AC adapter and the electronic apparatus is not powered, it is necessary to set the power consumption of the electronic apparatus to substantially “0” while it is not powered. If it pays attention to the current state that reactive power while the electronic apparatus is not powered becomes a problem due to recent concern about energy saving and tighter regulations, it is demanded to further decrease the power consumption.
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1. Field of Invention
This invention pertains to the art of methods and apparatus for collecting dirt in a vacuum cleaner of the home appliance type and disposing of the collected dirt, and more specifically to a reusable disposable bag for use with a home vacuum cleaner and a multiple use disposable vacuum cleaner bag.
2. Description of the Related Art
The typical home use vacuum cleaner bag is a permanently sealed paper bag that when filled with dirt is tossed out in the trash. Vacuum cleaner bags contain an inlet at the point where the vacuum cleaner bag is attached to the vacuum cleaner. When the vacuum cleaner bag becomes full, the vacuum cleaner bag is disposed of in the garbage. Additionally, if a small object such as jewelry, toy parts, etc., is accidentally vacuumed, the vacuum cleaner bag needs to be cut open to retrieve the object, regardless of the age or fill status of the vacuum cleaner bag.
The present invention is a new and improved vacuum cleaner bag which is simple in design, effective in use, and overcomes the foregoing difficulties and others while providing better and more advantageous overall results. The bag of the invention, from a cost standpoint, fits within the scope of a disposable product but is nevertheless capable of use and re-use through multiple dirt fill and dirt disposal cycles.
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The present invention relates generally to a modular active test probe and a removable tip module therefor that optimizes test probe performance.
Test probes are particularly critical to the accurate measurement of signals. As is well known, test probes are used to make temporary connections between a circuit test point and a measuring instrument, such as an oscilloscope. The primary goal when measuring a signal is to obtain as accurate a measurement as possible without disturbing the operation of the circuit. Specifically, the goal is to sample a signal without unduly loading the circuit while maximizing signal fidelity. For purposes herein, signal fidelity refers to the accuracy with which the signal that would be present at an unloaded test point is transmitted to the measuring apparatus and is achieved by, among other things, minimizing signal attenuation, maximizing bandwidth, providing constant time delay with increasing frequency, and minimizing ringing, signal reflection, and other types of signal distortion. To design a test probe that is capable of satisfying this goal, the properties of the test probe, the probe cable, and the measuring instrument must be considered together.
It is also important when measuring signals to have a test probe that is adapted to specific measurement needs. First, different test instruments have different input requirements, e.g., bandwidth, input resistance, and input capacitance and the test probe and probe cable used with a particular test instrument should be compatible with these requirements. Second, different test probes are adapted for sampling different test conditions. Voltage probes may be adapted for measuring high frequency or differential signals. Test probes may be adapted to the specific geometries or electrical characteristics of the circuit being tested. For example, some circuits now employ a standard connector for attaching a test probe. Moreover, test probes may be adapted to measure different types of signals, such as current or optical signals.
Test probes typically include a probe tip that makes physical contact with the test point, a probe body that allows the test probe to be held and which also holds the probe tip and probe circuit components, and a probe cable used to couple the test probe to the test instrument. An active test probe additionally includes a high input impedance amplifier to provide high signal fidelity while minimizing loading of the circuit.
Typically, the probe body and probe tip are integral. However, in some test probes, the probe tip can be removed from the probe body and replaced with another probe tip. A removable probe tip is desirable for several reasons: (a) different types of probe tips are required or may be advantageous for different test conditions; (b) the use of a single probe and several removable probe tips of different types is less expensive and more convenient than using several different complete test probe assemblies; and (c) if the removable probe tip breaks, it is less expensive to replace the probe tip rather than the complete test probe assembly. Though removable probe tips are desirable, they suffer from a number of disadvantages.
As mentioned, the design of a test probe capable of sampling a signal without unduly loading the circuit while maximizing signal fidelity requires that the test probe, probe cable, and test instrument properties be considered together. For example, the circuit elements in an active test probe are typically designed to optimize the performance of a probe tip having a particular geometry. However, these same circuit elements will not provide optimal performance when a probe tip having a different geometry is substituted. In other words, a test probe may be designed to optimize the signal fidelity for a single probe tip, but signal fidelity will not be optimal if the test probe is used with a number of different probe tips.
Other disadvantages of removable probe tips arise from the fact that removable tips require at least one (and typically more than one) removable connection or connector in the signal path. The connectors are needed to mechanically join and electrically couple the probe body and the probe tip. One common type of electrical connector is a socket on the probe body that receives the probe tip. Within the socket is a pliant spring or elastomer that compresses to receive and engage the probe tip after it has been inserted. The socket, the probe tip, and spring are all made from conductive material, such as metal. The socket is coupled to probe circuitry within the probe body and electrically couples the probe circuitry with the probe tip. In another common type of electrical connector, threaded members, such as male and female coaxial cable connectors or a threaded probe tip and socket, are used to join the probe tip and the socket together. The threaded connection generally holds the probe tip rigidly, but employs more metal than is used in pliant connectors.
The mechanical requirements for removably coupling metal parts typically increase the use of conductive materials and thereby increase the parasitics of the test probe, which degrades signal fidelity, particularly by decreasing bandwidth. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the probe tip and probe body have a parasitic capacitance and inductance (“parasitics”). The amount of conductive material in the signal path is directly proportional to the magnitude of the parasitic components. In the past, test probe parasitics have not been as significant a problem as they are today. The reason is that test probe parasitics are generally not a significant problem at low frequencies. At the high frequencies (e.g., 6 GHz and higher) that are commonplace in circuits today, even a small increase in parasitic capacitance in the signal path will significantly increase the load placed on the circuit under test. In addition, at high frequencies, the effects of test probe parasitics on signal fidelity significantly increase.
Test probes that have connectors that employ a threaded connection generally have more metal than is used in pliant connectors, thus such connectors have relatively high parasitics. Test probes that have connectors that employ springs or elastomers to join mechanically the probe body with the probe tip have lower (though still high) parasitics. However, the level of parasitics found in spring or elastomer connectors have the additional problem of being variable. As the relative positions and shape of the springs as well as the position of the probe tip change in response to forces encountered by the probe tip, the amount of parasitics also varies. The surface area of the probe tip that is in contact with the socket can also change in response to these forces, changing the parasitics of the probe. It is all but impossible to optimize a test probe design to compensate for variable parasitics.
Yet another general problem with the use of removable tips is the insertion of an additional distance or electrical length that is required for the repeatably removable connector. To avoid distortion, it is especially important to minimize this distance when measuring high frequency signals for which the corresponding wavelengths are not large compared with the electrical length.
In differential test probes, there are two probe tips and two signal paths each of which couples a separate signal to one of two inputs of a differential amplifier. If the differential test probe has removable probe tips that employ spring or elastomer connectors, the connector in each tip adds parasitics that vary with pressure against the respective probe tip. This causes signal fidelity errors that differ for each of the two signal paths. Therefore, there is a signal fidelity error in the differential signal that varies as a result of the respective pressures applied at each connector. As mentioned, it is all but impossible to optimize a test probe design to compensate for variable parasitics.
Accordingly, there is a need for a modular active test probe and removable tip module therefor that optimizes test probe performance.
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With the advent of digital communications technology, many TV program streams are transmitted in digital formats. For example, Digital Satellite System (DSS), Digital Broadcast Services (DBS), and Advanced Television Standards Committee (ATSC) program streams are digitally formatted pursuant to the well known Moving Pictures Experts Group 2 (MPEG-2) standard. The MPEG-2 standard specifies, among others, the methodologies for video and audio data compressions which allow multiple programs, with different video and audio feeds, multiplexed in a transport stream traversing a single transmission channel. A digital TV receiver may be used to decode an MPEG-2 encoded transport stream, and extract the desired program therefrom.
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As used throughout this specification including claims, “spam” is any electronic message that is unwanted by the recipient; and a “clean” electronic message is one that is not spam. The amount of spam sent over computer networks has increased with the increasing popularity of electronic messaging schemes such as e-mail. Spam filters have been designed to counter the flood of spam. However, spammers have employed various tricks to neutralize the spam filters and thereby place their unwanted messages in front of recipients.
Once such trick employed by spammers (illustrated in FIG. 1) is to break up the electronic message 1 into two portions: a visible portion 2 that is visible to the human recipient and readable by the spam filter, and an invisible portion 3 that is invisible to the human recipient but nonetheless readable by the spam filter. The visible portion 2 contains the spam message, typically between 10 and 20 words long, while the invisible portion 3 is much longer, typically between 1000 and 2000 words long. The invisible portion 3 contains characters that lull the spam filter into concluding that the message 1 is clean. In the case where the spam filter is a statistical filter (such as a Bayesian filter, a neural network, or a support vector machine), the invisible portion 3 of the message contains many more words than the visible portion 2. Furthermore, the invisible text 3 contains words that are innocuous. Since the spam filter processes many more innocuous words from the invisible portion 3 than spam words from the visible portion 2, the spam filter erroneously concludes that, as a whole, the message 1 is clean.
This spamming technique can be used with any spam filter that takes into account characters within the message 1. In the example shown in FIG. 1, if the spam filter has been programmed to conclude that a message 1 is clean when the word “cancer” appears in the message 1, the spammer can place the word “cancer” in the invisible portion 3 of the message, counteracting the effect of the word “breast” in the visible portion 2 of the message. (The word “breast” would normally trigger the spam filter to conclude that the message 1 contains spam.)
The present invention provides methods, apparati, and computer readable media to counter the above-described spamming technique.
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Transmission line elements are sometimes used to create balanced transformers, unbalanced transformers, and balanced-unbalanced transformers (also referred to as baluns). These transformers may be used in integrated circuits such as radio-frequency (RF) power amplifiers and low noise amplifiers that operate at high frequencies.
Several ongoing challenges that confront RF power amplifiers are finding ways to improve power efficiency and linearity. Push-pull power amplifiers may have up to four times higher load impedance for a given power level than do conventional single-ended power amplifiers. This may allow for much lower loss in frequency bands below 500 megahertz (MHz). For higher frequency applications (e.g., 800 MHz and beyond) for compact and portable devices, the baluns, particularly those baluns used for output matching, may be prohibitively large or inefficient.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to management of recording-sheet jams occurring in an image-forming apparatus.
2. Related Background Art
In conventional image-forming apparatuses, it is difficult to determine accurately the number of recording sheet jams due, in part, to the way in which such jams are counted. More specifically, in conventional apparatuses, each time a jam occurs, the apparatus stops image formation and a counter is incremented. Thereafter, a user "fixes" the jam, generally by removing the jammed recording sheet, and hits a "START" operation button to continue image formation. At this point, the user will often find that the jam has not been properly cleared, and the apparatus will not continue operation as a result. However, even though the apparatus will not continue operation, since the "START" button was activated, the counter will again be incremented. Thus, in conventional apparatuses, oftentimes two (or more) jams will be counted when, in fact, only one jam has occurred which was not cleared properly.
Thus, there exists a need for an image forming system which determines whether a jam is a "true" jam (i.e., a jam which occurred during operation) or a "false" jam (i.e., a jam which has been recorded as a result of a failure to correct a previous jam), and which can count such jams relatively accurately.
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The present invention relates to real-time-MRI-guided radiofrequency (RF) cardiac tissue ablation.
Real-time-MRI-guided radiofrequency (RF) cardiac tissue ablation can be used for treatment of conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias including atrial fibrillation (AF). RF ablation is a minimally-invasive catheter-based procedure in which RF energy is used to create lesions in the atrial wall in a prescribed manner to isolate ectopic electrical activity.
During RF ablation procedures, accurate knowledge of contact made between catheter tip and the structure to be treated, for example the left atrial (LA) wall, is crucial for success of creating the lesion, for accurate electrocardiogram measurement, and for ensuring patient safety.
However, the monitoring of tip-tissue contact, which is currently being performed using X-ray or ultrasound technologies, is a known shortcoming of current real-time MRI technology. During RF ablation, commonly used to treat cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, scars are intentionally created in the atrial wall to isolate the sources/triggers of abnormal electrical activity. The success rate of RF ablation is limited by the poor imaging that is currently clinically available, generally using X-ray projection imaging and intracardiac echo (ICE). X-ray imaging has poor soft-tissue contrast and only provides projection views. Ultrasound/ICE catheter positioning is cumbersome and provides only limited wall visualization. Visualization of the catheter tip visualization over a static atrial shell does not provide real-time relative positioning of the catheter tip and the wall.
Poor imaging guidance results in the inaccurate deposition of RF energy and, consequently, can lead to errors in the intended locations of the scars. This may result in the incomplete electrical isolation of the arrhythmia triggers and, in turn, the recurrence of symptoms.
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Light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) have been used in various applications including illuminating watches, transmitting information from remote controls, and forming images on jumbo television screens. More recently, LEDs have been used in portable lighting devices, such as flashlights, because, among other things, LEDs can last longer and can be more durable than incandescent lamps commonly used in conventional flashlights.
Notwithstanding the desirable characteristics LEDs may have over incandescent lamps, improvements can be made over existing lighting devices that use an LED as its primary source of light. For example, current LED flashlights typically fail to produce a quality light beam that projects for any appreciable distance. A reason for this is that available LED lamps substantially radiate light in a pattern over an angle less than 180° relative to the position of the LED. FIG. 1 illustrates the brightness or radiation pattern of a typical LED lamp. A typical LED lamp includes an LED and a lens arranged over the LED. The light rays that emanate from the typical LED lamp is generally conical—the brightness (indicated in percentages) is generally concentrated about the center axis 11 and reduces non-linearly as the spherical angle θ increases. Existing LED flashlights have not provided a reflector/lamp combination that effectively captures the brighter light rays that are concentrated about the center axis. Accordingly, although available LED lighting devices may be suitable to illuminate the immediate surrounding area, the distance that the light beam is able to project has been limited.
To try to overcome this deficiency, some devices have used multiple LEDs or a combination of LED lamps and incandescent lamps. However, such devices involve greater complexity, consume more energy, and cost more to manufacture. Accordingly, the present invention provides an energy efficient LED lighting device that has improved optical performance and that projects a quality light beam.
Also, as improvements are made to light sources, such as LEDs, another problem challenging the operation of portable lighting devices is effectively dissipating the increased heat that is generated by the light source. Accordingly, the present invention provides a combination that effectively dissipates heat from the light source of a portable lighting device. The present invention also provides a means to reduce the amount of heat generated by the light source and to use less energy to illuminate the light source.
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It is common for a network-accessible service to monitor the activity of a user who is interacting with the service. In one typical case, the service can deliver content to a user that includes various selectable features. The service can then register the user's express selection of these features. For instance, the service can deliver a page of content that includes one or more advertisements. The service can record each time the user selects these advertisements, such as by clicking on these advertisements or making some other express action that is directed at these advertisements. This type of monitoring can be performed for a collection of users to provide a general measure of how effective the features are in achieving a desired end result, such as eliciting the user's selection of the features. Such measurements, in turn, can be used to better assess the value of the features (for example, to better set the price charged for advertisements). In another typical case, the service can monitor the manner in which a user navigates from page to page within the service, such as by clicking on a link which activates a new page.
A user can be said to consume content by engaging or interacting with the content in any manner. One way of consuming content is by making the above-described types of express actions within a page, such as by clicking on various features in the content. However, a user's consumption of network-delivered content may not always be adequately represented by the user's mouse clicks or the user's movement from page to page within the content. In some cases, for example, a user may examine a part of a page, yet may not perform any express action with respect to that part. For example, the user may study a feature within the page, yet fail to click on this feature; this may be because the feature is non-selectable or the user simply declines to click on the feature. The feature nonetheless can be considered successful in engaging the user. Known techniques do not provide a suitably efficient mechanism for monitoring the user's consumption of content in these types of circumstances. As a result, a network-accessible service may fail to generate a sufficiently accurate understanding of how the user is engaging the service. As a further result, the service may fail to efficiently utilize and/or price its resources.
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A photoelectric conversion element using an organic film has a configuration in which, for example, an organic film having a photoelectric conversion function is interposed between an upper electrode and a lower electrode. The upper electrode is covered with a sealing film in order to prevent oxygen or water from intruding in the organic film. The sealing film has high film stress (internal stress), and there is a possibility that the organic film is damaged, causing degradation in image quality such as a so-called white scar or the like. Accordingly, for example, Patent Literature 1 describes that the sealing film is made up of a plurality of layers, allowing film stress of the whole sealing film to be adjusted within a specific range.
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{
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The present invention is directed to an antenna unit for a wireless communications device, and more particularly to a compact antenna which is fabricated by disposing a conductive pattern on a substrate.
A conventional sleeve antenna comprises a radiation element having an electrical length of one quarter wavelength, a sleeve having an electrical length of one quarter wavelength, and a coaxial cable for feeding a radiation element, wherein an outer conductor of the cable is connected to the sleeve, while an inner conductor of the coaxial cable is extended through the sleeve to be connected to the radiation element.
A conventional inverted type coaxial dipole antenna is constructed such that a central conductor of a coaxial cable is connected via a feeding line to a sleeve, wherein the feeding line is extended through a slot which is formed through an outer tube.
A conventional flat antenna comprises a flat substrate, on a first surface of which a microstrip of a thin conductive film is formed, and on a second surface of which a dipole antenna element and a feeding slot are formed.
The conventional sleeve antenna and inverted type coaxial dipole antenna involve complicated fabrication and adjustment because the feeding coaxial cable is connected to the sleeve.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,919 discloses a printed circuit antenna comprising an electrically insulating substrate on opposite sides of which are oppositely directed U-shaped, quarter wave, metallic radiators disposed symmetrically about a common longitudinal axis. The bases of the U-shaped radiators overlie each other and are respectively coupled to balanced transmission line conductors to one end of which a coaxial cable is connected, the other end being connected to a balun. By arranging the balun, coaxial cable and the balance conductors along the axis of the radiators, they do not interfere with the radiation pattern from the radiators. The requirement to use a balun limits the usage of the printed antenna because the antenna itself cannot be coupled directly to an input circuit of a receiver and/or output circuit of a transmitter.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,754,145 discloses a printed circuit antenna comprising an end fed elongate first dipole element provided on one side of a dielectric substrate. A second dipole element is provided on the opposite side of the dielectric substrate. The second dipole comprises first and second elongate elements disposed one on each side of the longitudinal axis of the first dipole element as viewed through the substrate. A ground plane on the second side of the substrate is connected to the first and second elements at a distance from a free end of the first dipole element corresponding substantially to a quarter wavelength of the frequency of interest.
In view of the above-mentioned limitations of the prior art antennas, it is an object of the present invention to provide an antenna for use with a portable wireless communications device.
It is another object of the invention to provide an antenna unit which is lightweight, compact, highly reliable, and efficiently produced.
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a printed antenna comprising an end fed elongate first dipole half element provided on one side of a dielectric substrate, a second dipole half element provided on a second side of the dielectric substrate, the second dipole comprising first and second elongate elements disposed one on each side of the longitudinal axis of the first dipole half element as viewed through the substrate and a ground plane coextensive with a feed portion of the first dipole half element, said ground plane being connected to the first and second elements. The first and second elements may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first dipole half element as viewed perpendicular to the plane of the substrate.
In preferred embodiments of the present invention, an antenna which couples to a transmitter/receiver, includes a printed circuit board (PCB) substrate. The antenna unit may be mass produced using printed circuit board (PCB) technology, where a dielectric material is selectively configured with a conductive material. The PCB antenna unit can be encapsulated in plastic or other material to create a solid, robust package which is durable and resistant to damage and deterioration.
The antenna unit can be used as part of a wireless voice or data link, or as part of an RF modem. The antenna unit is particularly suitable for use in compact, wireless communication devices such as portable computers, PDA""s, palm sized computers or information devices, or as an RF modem for desktop and mainframe computer systems.
Additionally, the antenna unit can be configured to be connected to the device through PCMCIA or Universal Serial Bus (USB) or other types of plug-in ports used in computers and PDA type devices. The antenna can be implemented to transmit and receive on desired frequencies of the device users, including analog or digital U.S. or European cell phone bands, PCS cell phone bands, 2.4 GHZ Bluetooth bands, or other frequency bands as would be obvious to one skilled in the art.
An antenna unit according to the present invention features broad VSWR and gain bandwidth greater than 15%. The invention is an omnidirectional antenna, having efficiency of 90% or greater. The invention can be encapsulated in plastic to produce a mechanically rugged device that is not easily damaged as with common whip dipole antennas.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is an antenna assembly having a selectively movable portion for adjusting the spatial orientation of the antenna, and hence, the polarization characteristics of the antenna. Such a selectively movable portion may include a hinged element having an interiorly disposed antenna displaying vertical, horizontal, or combined polarization characteristics as the hinged movable portion is biased into different positions.
The above and other objects and advantageous features of the present invention will be made apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the drawings.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a pivotable sunshade clip, and more particularly to a pivotable sunshade clip for spectacles, which can be easily pivoted upward or downward while it is attached to the spectacles.
2. Description of the Related Art
As a substitute for sunglasses, a sunshade for spectacles is formed in the shape of a clip so that it can be detachably attached to the spectacles if necessary. Such a sunshade clip for spectacles, as well and widely known, takes the form of spectacles having colored lenses, and can be detachably attached to ordinary spectacles by means of permanent magnets.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrating an example of the prior art, a bridge element 3 is attached to the top of two lens frames 2 of ordinary spectacles 1 so as to connect the lens frames 2 to each other. The bridge element 3 is made of copper, and is centrally formed with a smooth plane portion 4 having an expanded wide area.
The smooth plane portion 4 is formed with a plurality of rectangular magnet holes 5 for the insertion of magnets 6.
Similarly, to a sunshade clip 7, which is to be attached to a front side of the spectacles 1, is attached a bridge element 8. The bridge element 8 is also made of copper, and is centrally formed with a smooth plane portion 9 having an approximately L-shaped section.
One side of the L-shaped smooth plane portion 9 serves as a wearing plane portion 10 formed with a pair of magnet holes 12, whereas the other side thereof serves as an opening plane portion 11 formed with a pair of magnet holes 13. Into these magnet holes 12 and 13 are inserted pairs of magnets 14 and 15, respectively. These magnets 14 and 15 are attractable to the magnets 6 of the spectacles 1.
With such a configuration, when it is desired to locate the sunshade clip 7 immediately forward of the spectacles 1 in order to intercept sunlight, the magnets 14 inserted in the wearing plane portion 10 of the sunshade clip 7 are magnetically attached to the magnets 6 of the spectacles 1. On the contrary, when it is desired to open the sunshade clip 7 for the storage thereof, the sunshade clip 7 is pivoted upward so that the magnets 15 of the opening plane portion 11 are magnetically attached to the magnets 6 of the spectacles 1.
The above described conventional sunshade clip 7, however, has a problem in that, since it is pivoted upward or downward while it is attached to the spectacles only by means of magnetic attraction between the magnets 14 or 15 and 6, it is liable to be unintentionally separated from the spectacles 1 due to external shock or deterioration in magnetic force.
Especially, due to the fact that the bridge elements 3 and 8 are made of copper and thus are considerably heavy, they disadvantageously aggravate the overall weight of the sunshade clip 7, thereby causing a considerable pressure to be exerted upon the face of a wearer, resulting in degradation in wearability thereof.
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This invention relates to a bottle, can or cup holder designed for use in those models with bucket seats and parking brake or emergency handle positioned between the seats. A number of prior art beverage holders are known that rest upon the longitudinally extending tunnel hump of an automobile vehicle. Many devices of varying design have been provided to these holders in place on the tunnel. One type of anchoring is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,561,589 issued on Feb. 9, 1971 to Daniel C. Larkin, Jr. et al for "ARTICLE HOLDER FOR MOTOR VEHICLE BODY".
Beverage holder devices that are adapted to be clamped in place are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,136,461 issued on June 9, 1964 to D.F. Gregg, Jr. for "AUTOMOBILE SERVICE BAR".
A still further holding device for automobile trays is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 1,705,898 issued on Mar. 19, 1926 to K. W. Cannon et al for "SMOKERS ARTICLE".
These prior art devices generally require some effort and positioning by the automobile driver in order to place them in position and they are not as securely anchored as the beverage holder according to the present invention.
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The present invention relates to a device for pivoting a transport lever or the like between two terminal positions using a Geneva movement mechanism.
The object of the invention is to provide a pivoting device of this type such that on the one hand a motion that is as harmonic and free of jolts and impacts as is possible can be obtained, and on the other hand, an accurate positioning of the transport lever at each of its terminal positions is provided with the lowest possible effort.
The pivoting device according to the invention is described below in connection with an automatic photographic printing apparatus. It will be appreciated, however, that the device has many other practical applications.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlling a motor, and more particularly but without limitation, to a method and apparatus for controlling a voice coil motor so as to reduce abrasion of a disk when a magnetic head of a disk drive lifts from the surface of the disk.
2. Description of the Related Art
In general, a hard disk drive is a type of data storage device that contributes to an operation of a computer system by recording or reproducing data onto the disk using a magnetic head. As the storage capacity increases and the size of hard disk drives decreases, the number of bit per inch (BPI) (recording density in a rotational direction of the disk) and track per inch (TPI) (recording density in a radial direction of the disk) increase. Accordingly, increasingly accurate magnetic head mechanisms are required.
When a hard disk drive starts to operate or when a hard disk drive stops operation, the magnetic head is positioned in a parking zone located in an inner zone of the disk. That is, taking off and landing of the magnetic head is repeatedly performed at the same location. Since the taking off and landing of the magnetic head is repeatedly performed at the same location of the disk, as shown in FIG. 1, abrasion of the disk surface occurs at the parking zone.
Moreover, as the storage capacity of the disk drive increases, the number of disks mounted on the disk drive may increase. Since an acceleration time of the spindle motor increases due to the increased number of the disks, the abrasion of the disk when the magnetic head rises becomes more serious. Methods and apparatuses that reduce such abrasion are needed.
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This invention relates generally to an imaging system, and more specifically to an improved migration imaging member and xeroprinting duplicating process utilizing the improved migration imaging member.
In the art of printing/duplicating, various techniques have been developed for preparing masters for subsequent use in printing processes. For example, lithographic or offset printing is a well known and established printing process. In general, lithography is a method of printing from a printing plate which depends upon different properties of the imaged and non-imaged areas for printability. In conventional lithography, a lithographic intermediate is first prepared on silver halide film from the original; the printing plate is then contact exposed by intense UV light through the intermediate. UV exposure causes the exposed area of the printing plate to become hydrophilic or ink receptive; the non-exposed area is washed away by chemical treatment and becomes hydrophobic or ink repellant. Printing ink is then applied to the printing plate and the ink image is transferred to an offset roller where the actual printing takes place. Although lithographic printing provides high quality prints and high printing speed, the processes require the use of expensive intermediate films and printing plates. Additionally, considerable cost and time are consumed in their preparation, often requiring highly skilled labor and strict control measures. A further disadvantage is the difficulty in setting up the printing press to achieve the proper water to ink balance required to produce the desired results during the printing process. This results in further increased cost and delay time in obtaining the first acceptable print.
The above mentioned problems become especially severe in the manufacture of high quality color prints when several color separation images must be superimposed on the same receiving medium. Because of the high cost and complexities associated with the preparations of expensive printing plates and press runs, color proofing is employed to form representative interim prints (called proofs) from color separation components to allow the end user to determine whether the finished prints faithfully reproduce the desired results. As is often the case, the separation components may require repeated alteration to satisfy the end user. Only when the end user is satisfied with the results, a printing plate associated with each separation component is prepared and ultimately employed in the press run. An example of a color proofing system is the CROMALIN, introduced by E. I. duPont de Nemours & Co. in 1972 and widely used in the printing industry. It consists of a light sensitive tacky photopolymer layer laminated to paper. The photopolymer layer is contact exposed through a color separation component under a UV source. The exposed areas polymerize and lose their tackiness, while the non-exposed areas remain tacky. Toners are applied and adhere to the tacky areas. Since very different processes are employed in proofing and press runs, the proofs at best can only simulate the press sheets. Additionally, preparation of the color proofs is a time consuming process (e.g. about 30 minutes per proof for CROMALIN).
Xerographic printing is another well known printing technique. In conventional xerographic printing, an electrostatic image is first produced, either by lens coupled exposure to visible light or by laser scanning, on a conventional photoreceptor; the electrostatic image is then toned, followed by transferring the toner image to a receiving medium. While it offers the advantages of ease of operation and printing stability, requiring less skilled involvement and labor cost, the combined requirements of high quality and high printing speed, as those needed in commercial printing can not be easily met simultaneously at reasonable cost. This is because, to provide high quality and avoid certain artifacts, very high-picture-element density is also required. If a new image were to be written, for example, on the photoreceptor for each print, these requirements for high speed and high density would imply electronic bandwidths and (if laser scanning were used) modulation rates and polygon rotation speeds which are very unlikely to be available at resonable cost in the foreseeable future. There is no technology likely to overcome this problem in a direct way. The problems relating to conventional xerographic duplicating and printing include the necessity to continually repeat at high speed the imagewise exposure step.
Xeroprinting is another xerographic printing method. Conceptually, xeroprinting overcomes the above problems in a very simple way. Xeroprinting is an electrostatic printing process for printing multiple copies from a master plate or cylinder. The master plate may comprise a metal sheet upon which is imprinted an image in the form of a thin electrically insulating coating. The master plate may be made by photomechanical methods or by xerographic techniques. From the original, a single xeroprinting "master" can, for example, first be made slowly, in say 30-60 seconds. This imaged material is classically an electrical conductor with an imagewise pattern of insulating areas made by photomechanical or xerographic techniques; it has different charge acceptance in the imaged and non-imaged areas. Thus, generally, the imaging surface of the master plate comprises an electrically insulating pattern corresponding to the desired image shape and electrically conductive areas corresponding to the background. The xeroprinting master is then uniformly charged; the carge remains trapped only on the insulating areas, and this electrostatic image may then be toned. After toner transfer to paper and possibly cleaning, the charge-tone-transfer-clean process is repeated at high speed. In principle, then, it is possible to retain much of the simplicity, stability and quality of the xerographic process, without the need for repeated imagewise exposure. As an additional bonus, it may not be necessary to employ a cleaning step, since the same area is repeatedly toned. Moreover, conventional toners can be used, avoiding the problem of lack of color saturation which is encountered with comparable schemes employing magnetography. High contrast potential and high resolution of the electrostatic latent image are important characteristics that determine print qualities of documents prepared by xeroprinting. However these prior art xeroprinting techniques were found to produce prints of inferior quality. This is because an insulating pattern on a metal conductor cannot be fully and uniformly charged near its boundaries. As contrast potential builds up along the boundaries of the insulating pattern, fringing electric fields from the insulating image areas repel incoming ions from the charging device, which is usually a corona charging device, to the adjacent electrically conductive background areas. This results not only in low contrast potential but also in poor print resolution. Additionally, some xeroprinting processes require numerous processing steps and complex equipment to prepare the master and/or final xeroprinted product. Some xeroprinting techniques also require messy photochemical processing and removal of materials in either the image or non-image areas of the master.
In U.S. Pat. No. 3,574,614 issued to L. Carreira, a xeroprinting process is disclosed in which the xeroprinting master is formed by applying an electric field to a layer of photoelectrophoretic imaging suspension between a blocking electrode and an injecting electrode, one of which is transparent, the suspension comprising a plurality of photoelectrophoretic particles in an insulating carrier liquid, imagewise exposing the suspension to electromagnetic radiation through the transparent electrode to form complementary images on the surfaces of the electrodes (the light exposed particles migrating from the injecting electrode to the blocking electrode), transferring one of the images to a conductve substrate, uniformly applying to the image bearing substrate an organic insulating binder such that the binder thickness both within the image formed and the non-image areas ranges from 1-20 micrometers. The xeroprinting process consists of applying a uniform charge to the surface of the image bearing substrate in the presence of electromagnetic radiation to form an electrostatic residual charge pattern corresponding to the non-image areas (areas void of photoelectrophoretic particles), developing the residual charge pattern, transferring the developer from the residual charge pattern to a copy sheet and repeating the charging, developing and transferring steps. Alternatively, the insulating binder may be intimately blended with the dispersion of the photoelectrophoretic particles prior to insertion of the liquid mixture between the electrodes. The areas from which photoelectrophoretic particles have migrated become insulating and capable of supporting an electrostatic charge. A major problem is that insulating images supported directly on a conducting substrate cannot be charged close to the edges, because fringe fields drive incoming ions to the grounded substrate. Another disadvantage of such processes is that they require the use of a liquid photoelectrophoretic imaging suspension to prepare the master. Additionally master making processes are extremely complicated involving the removal of one of the electrodes, transfer of one of the complementary images to a conductive substrate, and application of an organic insulating binder to the conductive substrate. Such complicated master making processes are inconvenient to the users and can adversely affect the print quality. It also requires additional time to dry the image prior to use as a zeroprinting master.
Unlike the liquid photoelectrophoretic imaging suspension system described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,574,614, solid imaging members have been prepared for dry migration systems. Dry migration imaging members have been extensively described in the patent literature, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,909,262 which issued Sept. 30, 1975 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,975,195 which issued Aug. 17, 1976, the disclosures of both being incorporated herein in their entirety. In a typical embodiment of these migration imaging systems, a migration member comprising a substrate, a layer of softenable material, and photosensitive marking material is imaged by first forming a latent image by electrically charging the member and exposing the charged member to a pattern of activating electromagnetic radiation such as light. Where the photosensitive marking material is originally in the form of a fracturable layer contiguous the upper surface of the softenable layer, the marking particles in the exposed area of the member migrate in depth toward the substrate when the member is developed by softening the softenable layer.
The expression "softenable" as used herein in intended to mean any material which can be rendered more permeable thereby enabling particles to migrate through its bulk. Conventionally, changing the permeability of such material or reducing its resistance to migration of migration marking material is accomplished by dissolving, swelling, melting or softening, by techniques, for example, such as contacting with heat, vapors, partial solvents, solvent vapors, solvents and combinations thereof, or by otherwise reducing the viscosity of the softenable material by any suitable means.
The expression "fracturable" layer or material as used herein, means any layer or material which is capable of breaking up during development, thereby permitting portions of said layer to migrate toward the substrate or to be otherwise removed. The fracturable layer is preferably particulate in the various embodiments of the migration imaging members. Such fracturable layers of marking material are typically contiguous to the surface of the softenable layer spaced apart from the substrate, and such fracturable layers may be substantially or wholly embedded in the softenable layer in various embodiments of the imaging members.
The expression "contiguous" as used herein is intended to mean in actual contact, touching, also near, though not in contact, and adjoining, and is intended to generically describe the relationship of the fracturable layer of marking material in the softenable layer, vis-a-vis, the surface of the softenable layer spaced apart from the substrate.
The expression "optically sign-retained" as used herein is intended to mean that the dark (higher optical density) and light (low optical density) areas of the visible image formed on the migration imaging member correspond to the dark and light areas of the image on the original.
The expression "optically sign-reversed" as used herein is intended to mean that the dark areas of the image formed on the migration imaging member correspond to the light areas of the image on the original and the light areas of the image formed on the migration imaging member correspond to the dark areas of the image on the original.
The expression "optical contrast density" as used herein is intended to mean the difference between maximum optical density (D.sub.max) and minimum optical density (D.sub.min) of an image. Optical density is measured for the purpose of this application by diffuse densitometers with a blue Wratten No. 94 filter. The expression "optical density" as used herein is intended to mean "transmission optical density" and is represented by the formula: EQU D=log.sub.10 [l.sub.o /l]
where l is the transmitted light intensity and l.sub.o is the incident light intensity. For the purpose of this invention, all value of transmission optical density given in this invention include the substrate density of about 0.2 which is the typical density of a metallized polyester substrate.
There are various other systems for forming such images, where non-photosensitive or inert marking materials are arranged in the aforementioned fracturable layers, or dispersed throughout the softenable layer, as described in the aforementioned patent, which also discloses a variety of methods which may be used to form latent images upon migration imaging members.
Various means for developing the latent images may be used for migration imaging systems. These development methods include solvent wash away, solvent vapor softening, heat softening, and combinations of these methods, as well as any other method which changes the resistance of the softenable material to the migration of particulate marking material through the softenable layer to allow imagewise migration of the particles in depth toward the substrate. In the solvent wash away or meniscus development method, the migration marking material in the light struck region migrates toward the substrate through the softenable layer, which is softened and dissolved, and repacks into a more or less monolayer configuration. In migration imaging films supported by transparent substrates alone, this region exhibits a maximum optical density which can be high as the initial optical density of the unprocessed film. On the other hand, the migration marking material inthe unexposed region is substantially washed away and this region exhibits a minimum optical density which is essentially the optical density of the substrate alone. Therefore the image sense of the developed image is sign reversed, i.e. positive to negative or vice versa. Various methods and materials and combinations thereof have previously been used to fix such unfixed migration images. In the heat, or vapor softening developing modes, the migration marking material in the light struck region disperses in the depth of the softenable layer after development and this region exhibits D.sub.min which is typically in the range of 0.6-0.7. This relatively high D.sub.min is a direct consequence of the depthwise dispersion of the otherwise unchanged migration marking material. On the other hand, the migration marking material in the unexposed region does not migrate and substantially remains in the original configuration, i.e. a monolayer. In migration imaging films supported by transparent substrates, this region exhibits a maximum optical density (D.sub.max) of about 1.8-1.9. Therefore, the image sense of the heat or vapor developed images is sign retaining, i.e. positive-to-positive or negative-to-negative.
Techniques have been devised to permit optically sign-reversed imaging with vapor development, but these techniques are generally complex and require critically controlled processing conditions. An example of such techniques can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,795,512.
For many imaging applications, it is desirable to produce negative images from a positive original or positive images from a negative original i.e. optically sign-reversing imaging, preferably with low minimum optical density. Although the meniscus or solvent wash away development method produces optically sign-reversed images with low minimum optical density, it involves removal of materials from the migration imaging member, leaving the migration image largely or totally unprotected from abrasion. Although various methods and materials have previously been used to overcoat such unfixed migration images, the post-development overcoating step is impractically costly and inconvenient for the end users. Additionally, disposal of the effluents washed from the migration imaging member during development is also very costly.
The background portions of an imaged member may sometimes be transparentized by means of an agglomeration and coalescence effect. In this system, an imaging member comprising a softenable layer containing a fracturable layer of electrically photosensitive migration marking material is imaged in one process mode by electrostatically charging the member, exposing the member to an imagewise pattern of activating electromagnetic radiation, and the softenable layer softened by exposure for a few seconds to a solvent vapor thereby causing a selective migration in depth of the migration material in the softenable layer in the areas which were previously exposed to the activating radiation. The vapor developed image is then subjected to a heating step. Since the exposed particles gain a substantial net charge (typically 85-90% of the deposited surface charge) as a result of light exposure, they migrate substantially in depth in the softenable layer towards the substrate when exposed to a solvent vapor, thus causing a drastic reduction in optical density. The optical density in this region is typically in the region of 0.7 to 0.9 (including the substrate density of about 0.2) after vapor exposure, compared with an initial value of 1.8 to 1.9 (including the substrate density of about 0.2). In the unexposed region, the surface charge becomes discharged due to vapor exposure. The subsequent heating step causes the unmigrated, uncharged migration material in unexposed areas to agglomerate or flocculate, often accompanied by coalescence of the marking material particles, thereby resulting in a migration image of very low minimum optical density (in the unexposed areas) in the 0.25-0.35 range. Thus the contrast density of the final image is typically in the range of 0.35 to 0.65. Alternatively, the migration image may be formed by heat followed by exposure to solvent vapors and a second heating step which also results in a migration image with very low minimum optical density. In this imaging system as well as in the previously described heat or vapor development techniques, the softenable layer remains substantially intact after development, with the image being self-fixed because the marking material particles are trapped within the softenable layer.
The word "agglomeration" as used herein is defined as the coming together and adhering of previously substantially separate particles, without the loss of identity of the particles.
The word "coalescence" as used herein is defined as the fusing together of such particles into larger units, usually accompanied by a change of shape of the agglomerate towards a shape of lower energy, such as a sphere.
Generally, the softenable layer of migration imaging members is characterized by sensitivity to abrasion and foreign contaminants. Since a fracturable layer is located at or close to the surface of the softenable layer, abrasion can readily remove some of the fracturable layer during either manufacturing or use of the film and adversely affect the final image. Foreign contamination such as finger prints can also cause defects to appear in any final image. Moreover, the softenable layer tends to cause blocking of migration imaging members when multiple members are stacked or when the migration imaging material is wound into rolls for storage or transportation. Blocking is the adhesion of adjacent objects to each other. Blocking usually results in damage to the objects when they are separated.
The sensitivity to abrasion and foreign contaminants can be reduced by forming an overcoating such as the overcoatings described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,909,262. However, because the migration imaging mechanisms for each development method are different and because they depend critically on the electrical properties of the surface of the softenable layer and on the complex interplay of the various electrical processes involving charge injection from the surface, charge transport through the softenable layer, charge capture by the photosensitive particles and charge ejection from the photosensitive particles etc., application of an overcoat to the softenable layer often causes changes in the delicate balance of these processes, and results in degraded photographic characteristics compared with the non-overcoated migration imaging member. Notably, the photographic contrast density is degraded. Recently, improvements in migration imaging members and processes for forming images on these migration imaging members have been achieved. These improved migration imaging members and processes are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,536,458 issued to Dominic S. Ng and U.S. Pat. No. 4,536,457 issued to Man C. Tam.
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Opto-electronic devices that make use of organic materials are becoming increasingly desirable for a number of reasons. Many of the materials used to make such devices are relatively inexpensive, so organic opto-electronic devices have the potential for cost advantages over inorganic devices. In addition, the inherent properties of organic materials, such as their flexibility, may make them well suited for particular applications such as fabrication on a flexible substrate. Examples of organic opto-electronic devices include organic light emitting devices (OLEDs), organic phototransistors, organic photovoltaic cells, and organic photodetectors. For OLEDs, the organic materials may have performance advantages over conventional materials. For example, the wavelength at which an organic emissive layer emits light may generally be readily tuned with appropriate dopants.
OLEDs make use of thin organic films that emit light when voltage is applied across the device. OLEDs are becoming an increasingly interesting technology for use in applications such as flat panel displays, illumination, and backlighting. Several OLED materials and configurations are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,844,363, 6,303,238, and 5,707,745, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
One application for phosphorescent emissive molecules is a full color display. Industry standards for such a display call for pixels adapted to emit particular colors, referred to as “saturated” colors. In particular, these standards call for saturated red, green, and blue pixels. Color may be measured using CIE coordinates, which are well known to the art.
One example of a green emissive molecule is tris(2-phenylpyridine) iridium, denoted Ir(ppy)3, which has the following structure:
In this, and later figures herein, we depict the dative bond from nitrogen to metal (here, Ir) as a straight line.
As used herein, the term “organic” includes polymeric materials as well as small molecule organic materials that may be used to fabricate organic opto-electronic devices. “Small molecule” refers to any organic material that is not a polymer, and “small molecules” may actually be quite large. Small molecules may include repeat units in some circumstances. For example, using a long chain alkyl group as a substituent does not remove a molecule from the “small molecule” class. Small molecules may also be incorporated into polymers, for example as a pendent group on a polymer backbone or as a part of the backbone. Small molecules may also serve as the core moiety of a dendrimer, which consists of a series of chemical shells built on the core moiety. The core moiety of a dendrimer may be a fluorescent or phosphorescent small molecule emitter. A dendrimer may be a “small molecule,” and it is believed that all dendrimers currently used in the field of OLEDs are small molecules.
As used herein, “top” means furthest away from the substrate, while “bottom” means closest to the substrate. Where a first layer is described as “disposed over” a second layer, the first layer is disposed further away from substrate. There may be other layers between the first and second layer, unless it is specified that the first layer is “in contact with” the second layer. For example, a cathode may be described as “disposed over” an anode, even though there are various organic layers in between.
As used herein, “solution processible” means capable of being dissolved, dispersed, or transported in and/or deposited from a liquid medium, either in solution or suspension form.
A ligand may be referred to as “photoactive” when it is believed that the ligand directly contributes to the photoactive properties of an emissive material. A ligand may be referred to as “ancillary” when it is believed that the ligand does not contribute to the photoactive properties of an emissive material, although an ancillary ligand may alter the properties of a photoactive ligand.
As used herein, and as would be generally understood by one skilled in the art, a first “Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital” (HOMO) or “Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital” (LUMO) energy level is “greater than” or “higher than” a second HOMO or LUMO energy level if the first energy level is closer to the vacuum energy level. Since ionization potentials (IP) are measured as a negative energy relative to a vacuum level, a higher HOMO energy level corresponds to an IP having a smaller absolute value (an IP that is less negative). Similarly, a higher LUMO energy level corresponds to an electron affinity (EA) having a smaller absolute value (an EA that is less negative). On a conventional energy level diagram, with the vacuum level at the top, the LUMO energy level of a material is higher than the HOMO energy level of the same material. A “higher” HOMO or LUMO energy level appears closer to the top of such a diagram than a “lower” HOMO or LUMO energy level.
As used herein, and as would be generally understood by one skilled in the art, a first work function is “greater than” or “higher than” a second work function if the first work function has a higher absolute value. Because work functions are generally measured as negative numbers relative to vacuum level, this means that a “higher” work function is more negative. On a conventional energy level diagram, with the vacuum level at the top, a “higher” work function is illustrated as further away from the vacuum level in the downward direction. Thus, the definitions of HOMO and LUMO energy levels follow a different convention than work functions.
More details on OLEDs, and the definitions described above, can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,279,704, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
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The invention relates broadly to a combination of encapsulation, immobilization and release of active material using hydrogel microbeads, where the active can be either water soluble or water insoluble. Specifically, the hydrogel microbeads immobilize encapsulated agricultural chemicals such as pheromones, herbicides, insecticides and pesticides, whereby the encapsulated active material is released into ambient air by diffusion through at least two paths sections: a microcapsule shell and a hydrophilic matrix.
Methods of eliminating unwanted pests from orchards, crops and forests frequently entail the use of organophosphate insecticides. Alternative methods involve insect mating disruption, where insect pheromones are used to control pests and protect agricultural crop. In insect mating disruption methods, the mating pheromone plume of a female insect is typically masked with other pheromone point sources. This reduces the likelihood of a male insect finding a female, and subsequently disrupts and reduces larvae production. The insect population of the next generation is thus decreased, as well as potential crop damage.
Conventional sprayable pheromone formulations are generally provided in liquid filled microcapsules containing an active. Typically, the microcapsules have a polyurea membrane that can be formed using an interfacial process involving an isocyanate and an amine. Microencapsulation by this method has been described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 4,487,759 (Nesbitt et al, 1984). These polyurea membranes allow actives to be released into the atmosphere for up to a total of 2-3 weeks for most insect pheromones. Membranes of polyurea capsules are generally semi-permeable, therefore active material can diffuse across the membranes and release slowly with time. Potentially, high concentrations of active in the air can be observed immediately upon delivery or spraying of encapsulated products. This may be attributable to a high occurrence of capsule bursts or potential leaks in microcapsules.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,532,123 teaches capsules containing a pharmaceutical active material in primary capsules, that are further encapsulated within a second membrane to create secondary capsules. The intracapsular liquid core of the secondary capsules contain enzymes which slowly hydrolyze the membrane of the primary capsules. This slow hydrolysis enables the slow release of active from the primary capsules into the larger capsular core for controlled delivery.
A Japanese paten, JP 8-173794 teaches encapsulation of an amine within small capsules of polymethyl methacrylate membranes. These capsules are further encapsulated within an epoxy-amine polymeric shell. Similarly, the amine within the tiny capsules is released into the core of the larger capsule ultimately delivering the amine upon rupturing of the polymeric shells.
Use of interfacial condensation to encapsulate substances such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides and herbicides is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 3,577,515. The encapsulation process involves two immiscible liquid phases (typically water and an organic solvent), one being dispersed in the other by agitation, and the subsequent polymerization of monomers from each phase at the interface between the bulk (continuous) phase, and the dispersed droplets. Polyurethanes and polyureas are materials suitable for producing the microcapsules. The microcapsules comprising a polymeric sphere and a liquid centre, ranging from 30 micron to 2 mm in diameter, depending on monomers and solvents used.
Highly viscous and thickened hydrogels have been used to deliver pheromones, fragrances and other non-water soluble actives. U.S. Pat. No. 4,755,377, for example, describes a process of encapsulating perfume or fragrant material within an aqueous-based gel composition. The resulting material is in the form of a highly viscous semi-solid. U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,844 describes the use of chitosan paste for delivery of pheromones to disrupt insect mating, where the material can be dispensed by an apparatus such as a caulking gun. Due to their thickness and high viscosity, these materials, however, are generally unsprayable compositions.
Most hydrogels are safe and non-toxic to humans. Hydrogels have been used for the encapsulation of biological materials whereby the formulation is non-lethal to the viability of the cells, proteins, and related materials. U.S. Pat. No. 4,689,293, describes the process of encapsulating living tissue or cells. The encapsulation shell permits the passage of materials and oxygen to the cells and permits the diffusion of the metabolic by-products from the gel.
To provide an extended release period of an active, microbeads comprising a hydrophilic matrix with active-filled microcapsules entrained therein is provided. The hydrophilic matrix is capable of immobilizing a broad spectrum of microencapsulated active materials, either water soluble or non-water soluble. The microbeads may be suspended in a sprayable solution.
In an aspect of the invention, the hydrophilic matrix may be made from a water soluble matrix-forming material to provide an environmentally friendly microbead.
In a further aspect of the invention, the microbeads may be capable of rehydrating after an initial dehydration and release of active. Thus, the release and longevity of the active can be controlled by adjusting the humidity of the environment in which the microbeads have been delivered.
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a transmission with an output gear for moving axially a threaded rod, which is engaged threadably within the output gear, more particularly to a transmission with a thrust bearing, which facilitates smooth axial movement of the threaded rod.
2. Description of the Related Art
The improvement of this invention is directed to a conventional transmission, which is used to adjust a slope of a foot-supporting member of a treadmill that serves as a leg exerciser. Referring to FIG. 1, the conventional transmission 10 is shown to include a gear box 11 in which a reduction gearing 12 is disposed. The reduction gearing 12 includes three unitary speed-reducing elements 13, 14, 15, and an output gear 16. Each of the speed-reducing elements 13, 14, 15 has a large gear 131, 141, 151, and a small gear 132, 142, 152. When a motor 90 is powered, a bevel gear 91 that is fixed on a motor shaft of the motor 90 rotates the large gear 131 so that the small gear 152 rotates the output gear 16. The bevel gear 91 has an end 911, which is biased by a spring 92 to press a washer 18 against a side surface of the large gear 141. As such, when power to drive the motor 90 is switched off, rotation of the elements 13, 14, 15 stops. The output gear 16 has an integral shaft 161, which is formed with a threaded axial hole 162. An externally threaded rod 17 is engaged within the threaded axial hole 162 in the shaft 161. Accordingly, when power to drive the motor 9 is switched on, rotation of the bevel gear 91 is converted into axial movement of the threaded rod 17. The aforementioned conventional transmission suffers from the following disadvantages:
(1) Because there is no bearing provided between the threaded rod 17 and the gear box 11, the threaded rod 17 cannot move smoothly in the gear box 11. Furthermore, friction between external threads on the rod 17 and internal threads in the shaft 161 reduces largely the output torque of the transmission 12. PA1 (2) It is more difficult to effect upward movement of the threaded rod 17 than downward movement of the same due to the weight of the load that is carried on the top end of the rod 17. Accordingly, the transmission 12 is equipped normally with a control circuit device (not shown), which is selected according to the type of the load, thereby increasing the manufacturing costs.
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1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a method of measuring the quality of radio-transmission channels of a radio-transmission system.
The received field strength is often used to measure the quality of radio-transmission channels, more specifically for registering interference within the useful information.
Such a quality measuring method as the disadvantage that a measure of the interferences produced can only then be obtained when the power of the HF-noise signal can be considered as being constant. However, in a radio-transmission system this assumption is usually not valid. On the one hand the noise power of the receiver input noise changes in response to temperature fluctuations and on the other hand external noise sources such as, for example, co-channel transmitters (such as they can be present in a cellular radio-transmission system) cause a varying HF noise power. These noise powers which significantly fluctuate in mobile radio stations result in conditions such that the field strength is not suitable for use as a quality indicator, particularly in interference-limited cellular radio networks.
2. Description of the Prior Art
DE-AS No. 27 38 800 discloses a radio message transmission system with frequency and/or phase modulation, in which the amplitude fluctuations caused by interferences in the RF-sub-carrier signal are used for quantitively registering the interference. A comparatively constant power of the received useful signal is a prerequisite. In radio transmission systems including mobile radio stations, amplitude fluctuations occur however in response to fading and radio masking, which are present with the same order of magnitude both in good receiving conditions and also in poor receiving conditions, so that measuring the amplitude fluctuations of the RF-carrier signal is not suitable for use as a quality indicator.
From Jakes, Microwave Mobile Communications, John Wiley, 1974, it is known to determine the signal-to-noise ratio in the base band after demodulation. In this situation the noise outside the useful band is measured (out-of-band noise), this measurement often not being suitable for use in bandwidth-efficient digital modulation methods as the band of the low-frequency useful signals is not or is hardly limited. The signal-to-noise ratio in the baseband after the demodulation is often also not ascertainable in a digital radio transmission system.
In addition, DE-AS No. 26 12 476 discloses a radio telephone system in which a signal-to-noise interval measurement is effected, using a test tone. In this disclosure the LF-signal-to-noise ratio is measured with the aid of the pilot tone (test tone) located above the useful frequency band, no signal being transmitted during the transmission of the pilot tone in the useful LF-band, so that the noise power can be measured.
This method of quality measurement has however the disadvantage that during a message transmission in progress no noise measurements can be effected.
Additionally, IEEE Journal of Selected Areas in Communications, Vol. SAC-2, No. 4, July 1984, "Digital Portable Transceiver Using GMSK Modems and ADM Codec," H. Suzuki et al, describes a method of quality measurement in which the jitter of the received RF carrier is used for noise measurement.
However, this method can only be used in coherent demodulation methods in which the carrier is tracked phase-synchronously in the receiver. Modulation methods of this type are however not yet suitable for use in radio transmission systems comprising fast moving radio stations, and with higher carrying frequencies.
In addition, in the digital transmission of the message the jitter of the received and recovered binary signal is often used as a measure of the quality.
Such a method of quality measurement has however the disadvantage that in contemporary digital radio transmission systems with bandwidth-efficient modulation methods such as TFM or GMSK, the clock jitter alone is difficult to access. Especially in rapidly moving receivers a basic jitter is already produced by "random FM". Particularly at higher data rates the jitter is therefore not suitable for judging the receiving quality.
The invention has for its object to measure in a simple way and manner the quality of the radio-transmission channel during the transmission in progress, in a frequency or/and phase modulated-carrier radio transmission system. During the quality measurement also the value of co-channel transmission interferences, such as they may occur in a cellular radio transmission system, must be determined and the method of measuring the quality must be independent of the modulation method used in the radio transmission system.
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1. Technical field
The invention relates to a soft pack comprising at least one blank made of paper or similar packaging material, in particular a soft-carton pack for cigarettes, having blank regions, folding tabs, etc. which are connected to one another by adhesive bonding. The invention also relates to a process and to an apparatus for producing such packs having folding tabs connected by adhesive bonding or thermal sealing.
2. Prior Art
The constantly increased output capacity of packaging machines results in problems with the gluing of folding tabs and other parts of the packs. Glue subassemblies for applying (cold) glue are the cause for frequent breaks in operation on account of soiling in the region of the glue subassembly or of the packs themselves.
The object of the invention is to propose measures which ensure precise, disruption-free and efficient handling of the gluing of (cigarette) packs.
In order to achieve this object, the pack according to the invention is characterized in that the blank regions, folding tabs, etc., in particular side tabs and/or base tabs, are connected to one another by hot-melt glue, it being the case that applications of glue, in particular strips of glue, are applied to the non-folded and planar blank, and are activated by the feed of heat during the production process.
Provided in the region of a base wall of a soft-carton pack is 30 a specific application of glue which results in increased sealing. For the purpose of connecting base tabs, namely longitudinal tabs and side tabs, use is made of a double-T-shaped application of glue with a longitudinal strip for connecting the longitudinal tabs and with transverse strips for connecting the longitudinal tabs to inner side tabs.
A special feature is that a band (or revenue stamp) which is conventional in the case of cigarette packs is connected to the pack by hot-melt glue. According to the invention, the front and rear walls of the pack or of the soft carton are provided with areas of glue which serve for connecting the band to the pack.
The gluing of the packs according to the invention can be integrated in a conventional packaging machine, in particular in a soft-pack packaging machine. It is expedient in this case to activate expanses of glue at different locations as the folding and production process progresses and to connect the corresponding blank parts to one another. It is advantageous for the base wall to be glued in the region of a folding turret. Border strips for forming a side wall may be glued in the region of the folding turret or advantageously in the region of a separate activating turret. In the region of the latter, a band is also provided and fastened by the use of hot-melt glue.
The invention is also concerned with a specific configuration of the (activating) turret, which is provided with elongate pockets for receiving a plurality of packs in an axis-parallel position, the pockets having heating elements for local heating of the packs. In this process the heating elements or heating jaws can be used for the reactivation of the correspondingly formed glue or for the thermal sealing of folding tabs or other pack parts, with the folding tabs or the like, which are to be joined together by sealing, being comprised of thermally sealable plastic or having such layers.
A special feature is also constituted by the configuration of the turrets as far as the feed of supply and control lines as well as the control of a multiplicity of controllable elements of the turret are concerned.
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Patent Literature 1 discloses a technology in which when accelerator opening degree Acc is less than predetermined first opening degree threshold value Aref1, it is judged that the accelerator opening degree Acc is sufficiently small and an energy efficiency of the vehicle is in a good state, and an ECO indicator is lighted up, whereas when the accelerator opening degree Acc is not less than predetermined second opening degree threshold value Aref2, it is judged that the accelerator opening degree Acc is too large and an energy efficiency of the vehicle is not in the good state, and the ECO indicator is extinguished. In addition, the Patent Literature 1 discloses that in a case where the accelerator opening degree Acc is not less than the predetermined first opening degree threshold value Aref1 and is less than predetermined second opening degree threshold value Aref2, if accelerator opening speed Va is less than predetermined opening speed threshold value Varef, it is judged that accelerator operation is good and an energy efficiency of the vehicle is in a good state, and the ECO indicator is lighted up, whereas in a case where the accelerator opening degree Acc is not less than the predetermined first opening degree threshold value Aref1 and is less than the predetermined second opening degree threshold value Aref2, if the accelerator opening speed Va is not less than the predetermined opening speed threshold value Varef, it is judged that accelerator operation is not good and an energy efficiency of the vehicle is not in the good state, and the ECO indicator is extinguished.
In a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission or a vehicle that is running in a so-called sport mode or a manual mode of an automatic transmission, fuel economy is enhanced by carrying out a shift-up operation when vehicle speed is increased by depressing an accelerator pedal, but fuel economy is deteriorated when a gear position (gear ratio) is retained without carrying out the shift-up operation.
In the above-described Patent Literature 1, the first opening degree threshold value Aref1 and the second opening degree threshold value Aref2 which are used upon judging turn-on/turn-off of the ECO indicator are set to increase as the vehicle speed becomes higher.
Specifically, in a case where the gear position (gear ratio) is retained without carrying out the shift-up operation when the vehicle speed is increased by depressing the accelerator pedal, as the vehicle speed becomes higher, the first opening degree threshold value Aref1 for lighting the ECO indicator is increased so that light-up of the ECO indicator is more facilitated. Therefore, there occurs such a fear that even when fuel economy is actually deteriorated, the ECO indicator is occasionally lighted up, so that a vehicle operator may be urged toward deterioration in fuel economy.
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to low-cost refined, metallurgical silicon materials. More particularly, it relates to the production of such silicon materials having desirable properties for solar cell applications.
2. Description of the Prior Art
The development of new techniques and products for the low-cost utilization of non-polluting sources of energy is of paramount national and world-wide interest. Solar energy is among the energy sources of greatest interest because of its non-polluting nature and of its abundant, non-diminishing availability. Two separate approaches have been utilized in efforts to develop solar energy as a suitable energy source for satisfying significant portions of the ever-increasing energy requirements of modern, industrial societies. In one approach, solar energy is converted into thermal energy, while the second approach involves the conversion of solar energy into electricity by means of the photovoltaic effect upon the absorption of sunlight by so-called solar cells. The present invention relates to the second approach and to the development of low-cost silicon materials for use in such solar cells.
Silicon solar cells, the most commonly employed devices based on said photovoltaic effect, have been employed reliably in space craft applications for many years. For such applications and for industrial and commercial applications in general, crystals of high purity, semiconductor grade silicon are commonly utilized. Such high purity, high perfection silicon is prepared by rather costly procedures involving converting metallurgical grade silicon to trichlorosilane, which is then reduced to produce polycrystalline, semiconductor grade silicon from which single crystals can be grown. The costs associated with the production of such high purity, high perfection crystals are high. For example, polycrystalline semiconductor grade silicon made from metallurgical grade silicon costing about $0.50/lb. will presently cost on the order of about $30/lb. and up. A single crystal is grown from this semiconductor grade material, the ends of the single crystal ingot or boule are cut off, and the boule is sawed, etched and polished to produce polished wafers for solar cell application, with mechanical breakage and electronic imperfection reducing the amount of useable material obtained. As a result of such processing, less than 20% of the original polycrystalline, semiconductor grade silicon will generally be recovered in the form of useable wafers of single crystal material. The overall cost of such useable material is, accordingly, presently on the order of about $300/lb. and up. Because of the relatively large area requirements involved in solar cell applications, such material costs are a significant factor in the overall economics of such applications.
The economic feasibility of utilizing solar cell technology for significant portions of the present and prospective needs for replenishable, non-polluting energy sources would be enhanced, therefore, if the utilization of high cost, high purity, high perfection single crystal wafers could be avoided. Previous efforts to refine metallurgical silicon for other applications, however, have not resulted in the production of materials that can be utilized in solar cells although the electronic characteristics of various grades of silicons for solar cells are less stringent than, for example, such silicons as employed for complex circuitry in the electronics industry.
Metallurgical silicon has heretofore been refined by slag oxidation to obtain a grade of metallurgical silicon or ferrosilicon advantageous as an alloying additive in the manufacturing of steels. As indicated in the Barber et al patent, U.S. Pat. No. 2,797,988, and elsewhere, the slag oxidation approach has been utilized to remove impurities and thus to purify and refine silicon having an iron content therein such that the refined product constitutes a ferrosilicon in which iron is considered an integral part of the final refined product. For use of silicon as a substrate in planar diodes and solar cells made therefrom, however, it is necessary that the refined silicon have as low an iron content as possible as such iron is a deleterious impurity in a solar cell material. As indicated above, this circumstance is in contradistinction to the benign nature of the iron content of the refined silicon product as utilized in the steel industry.
Silicon has also been purified heretofore by the dissolution and subsequent precipitation of silicon from a liquid metal system. Such purification, taught by Litz, U.S. Pat. No. 3,097,068 and Wakefield, U.S. Pat. No. 3,933,981, involve the retention of silicon impurities by the liquid metal solvent when dissolution takes place at a higher temperature and, subsequently, the temperature is lowered to precipitate a relatively pure silicon. Such a silicon product is not suitable for use as a substrate in solar cell applications, however, since the liquid metal of the solvent phase is present as an impurity in the product silicon so obtained in this processing technique.
While Litz states that the product of such refining by liquid metal solvent is too impure for use in transistors, use for rectifiers and solar batteries is indicated. The product, however, is said to contain 200 to 700 ppm of aluminum, with no mention of its iron content. Such a level of aluminum would render the product purified by the Litz technique unsuitable for solar cell application. Litz also discloses a further lengthy and expensive procedure using silicon tetrachloride to reduce the aluminum content to 9 ppm.
Other efforts to develop acceptable solar cell materials have likewise resulted either in high cost, or high impurity levels such that acceptable efficiencies can not be obtained, or a combination of these disadvantages. An acceptable efficiency for a low-cost, relatively impure silicon would, of course, very likely represent some loss from the high purity, single crystal material made from semiconductor grade silicon. Such high-cost material is capable of providing efficiencies of about 13-14%. The lower cost of relatively impure silicon material, particularly multigrained material, might well constitute an advantageous trade-off enhancing the overall technical-economic feasibility of utilizing silicon solar cell technology in significant commercial operations.
The practical lower limit for economic solar cell efficiencies is about 7-8%. One attempt to produce an acceptable low-cost material has involved the pulling of ribbons from a melt of metallurgical grade silicon by known techniques. While such ribbons pulled from semiconductor grade material have obtained efficiencies of up to 10%, the ribbon pulled from metallurgical silicon is relatively dirty and impure, with solar cell efficiencies obtained from such ribbon being limited to about 5%.
Another approach has involved the pulling of boules, in a multiple series of refining steps, from metallurgical grade silicon as a starting material by the known Czochralski-pulling technique. By re-melting and re-pulling refined, multigrained silicon in a several state process, a single crystal refined silicon is ultimately obtained that is capable of achieving efficiencies of about 8%. The cost of such material, however, is relatively high because of the multiple pulling steps involved.
Chu, U.S. Pat. No. 3,961,997, discloses the fabrication of low-cost solar cell substrates from metallurgical grade, polycrystalline silicon. In this approach, successive layers of polycrystalline silicon containing appropriate dopants are deposited over substrates of metallurgical grade silicon, graphite or steel coated with particular diffusion barrier materials. The resulting products contain a high level of impurities such that efficiencies obtainable by modifications of this approach have not exceeded about 3-5%.
A genuine need thus exists for low-cost, relatively impure silicon products suitable for use in solar cells of acceptable efficiency. The resulting low-cost solar cells should preferably have efficiencies in excess of about 10%, with 7-8% representing a practical lower limit of efficiency as indicated above.
It is an object of this invention, therefore, to provide low-cost refined metallurgical silicon products suitable for solar cell applications.
It is another object of the invention to provide refined metallurgical silicon of a relatively impure nature as compared with semiconductor grade material while having useful properties for said solar cell applications.
It is a further object of the invention to provide multigrained refined metallurgical silicon useful for solar cell applications or readily convertible to such useful silicon material.
With these and other objects in mid, the invention is hereinafter described, the novel features thereof being particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
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{
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to anti-VEGF antibodies and, in particular, to humanized anti-VEGF antibodies and variant anti-VEGF antibodies.
2. Description of Related Art
It is now well established that angiogenesis is implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of disorders. These include solid tumors, intraocular neovascular syndromes such as proliferative retinopathies or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis (Folkman et al. J. Biol. Chem. 267:10931–10934 (1992); Klagsbrun et al. Annu. Rev. Physiol. 53:217–239 (1991); and Garner A, Vascular diseases. In: Pathobiology of ocular disease. A dynamic approach. Garner A, Klintworth G K, Eds. 2nd Edition Marcel Dekker, NY, pp 1625–1710 (1994)). In the case of solid tumors, the neovascularization allows the tumor cells to acquire a growth advantage and proliferative autonomy compared to the normal cells. Accordingly, a correlation has been observed between density of microvessels in tumor sections and patient survival in breast cancer as well as in several other tumors (Weidner et al. N Engl J Med 324:1–6 (1991); Horak et al. Lancet 340:1120–1124 (1992); and Macchiarini et al. Lancet 340:145–146 (1992)).
The search for positive regulators of angiogenesis has yielded many candidates, including aFGF, bFGF, TGF-α, TGF-β, HGF, TNF-α, angiogenin, IL-8, etc. (Folkman et al. and Klagsbrun et al). The negative regulators so far identified include thrombospondin (Good et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 87:6624–6628 (1990)), the 16-kilodalton N-terminal fragment of prolactin (Clapp et al., Endocrinology, 133:1292–1299 (1993)), angiostatin (O'Reilly et al. Cell, 79:315–328 (1994)) and endostatin (O'Reilly et al. Cell, 88:277–285 (1996)).
Work done over the last several years has established the key role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the regulation of normal and abnormal angiogenesis (Ferrara et al. Endocr. Rev. 18:4–25 (1997)). The finding that the loss of even a single VEGF allele results in embryonic lethality points to an irreplaceable role played by this factor in the development and differentiation of the vascular system (Ferrara et al.). Furthermore, VEGF has been shown to be a key mediator of neovascularization associated with tumors and intraocular disorders (Ferrara et al.). The VEGF mRNA is overexpressed by the majority of human tumors examined (Berkman et a. J Clin Invest 91:153–159 (1993); Brown et al. Human Pathol. 26:86–91 (1995); Brown et al. Cancer Res. 53:4727–4735 (1993); Mattern et al. Brit. J. Cancer. 73:931–934 (1996); and Dvorak et al. Am J. Pathol. 146:1029–1039(1995)). Also, the concentration of VEGF in eye fluids are highly correlated to the presence of active proliferation of blood vessels in patients with diabetic and other ischemia-related retinopathies (Aiello et al. N. Engl. J. Med. 331:1480–1487 (1994)). Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated the localization of VEGF in choroidal neovascular membranes in patients affected by AMD (Lopez et al. Invest. Ophtalmo. Vis. Sci. 37:855–868 (1996)). Anti-VEGF neutralizing antibodies suppress the growth of a variety of human tumor cell lines in nude mice (Kim et al. Nature 362:841–844 (1993); Warren et al. J. Clin. Invest. 95:1789–1797 (1995); Borgström et al. Cancer Res. 56:4032–4039 (1996); and Melnyk et al. Cancer Res. 56:921–924(1996)) and also inhibit intraocular angiogenesis in models of ischemic retinal disorders (Adamis et al. Arch. Ophthalmol. 114:66–71 (1996)). Therefore, anti-VEGF monoclonal antibodies or other inhibitors of VEGF action are promising candidates for the treatment of solid tumors and various intraocular neovascular disorders.
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1. Field of the Invention
The Invention relates to the handling of interrupt signals, and more particularly, to the handling of long latency interrupt signals in a computer with an input/output (I/O) write posting capability
2. Description of the Related Art
The growth of the personal computer industry is attributable in part to the availability of low cost, yet powerful computers. Improvements in processor, memory and data storage capabilities have resulted in light-weight, powerful mobile computers such as portables, luggables, laptops, notebooks, palmtops and personal digital assistants. These computers can provide sufficient processing capability for audio visual applications such as computer aided design, three-dimensional animation, and multimedia presentation even when users are at remote locations.
Although mobile users want lightweight and compact computers for their mobile computing requirements, they also want the ability to accept a broad range of peripherals via expansion buses such as the Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, the Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, or the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus. However, due to weight, space and power consumption limits imposed by the physical structure of the portable computer, the portable computer cannot provide the same expandability as the desktop computer. One method of providing expandability for portable computers without sacrificing size, weight and battery life is through an expansion base unit. The expansion base unit is a non-portable unit that operates from AC power. When the user is at his or her home-base, he or she simply plugs the portable computer into the expansion base unit to access the additional peripherals. For example, the expansion unit may have a network interface card (NIC) for connecting to a local area network, a large capacity disk drive for additional data storage, and other expansion cards that do not need to be on the portable computer itself.
Although the connection between the portable computer and the expansion base unit may be accomplished via a proprietary bus, an alternate route is to connect the two units via the standard expansion bus itself to minimize translations from the standard expansion bus and back. In this manner, the expansion base unit adds a second bus that is an extension of the portables standard expansion bus, effectively increasing the number of slots available to accept expansion cards to the entire computer system. However, the possibility that peripherals on both buses can be mapped into the same addresses complicates the process of accessing individual peripherals when the portable computer is docked to the base unit because of the potential conflicts.
One such interaction involves interrupt signals. In conventional computer systems, hardware devices such as a keyboard or a serial port can request servicing on a timely basis. Although the central processing unit (CPU) can periodically poll each peripheral to ensure that requests are timely serviced, an interrupt approach is more efficient because it allows the microprocessor to execute its main program and to service peripheral devices only when requested by the device itself. The interrupt approach typically uses a programmable interrupt controller (PIC) coupled to the system bus to function as an overall manager in accepting interrupt requests from the I/O devices. In typical personal computer (PC) systems compatible with those made by International Business Machines Corporation, the PIC receives interrupts over the ISA expansion bus and appropriately pulses the interrupt input of the processor. The processor completes the currently executing instruction, issues an interrupt acknowledge signal to the PIC and then executes a service routine to service the requesting device. Once the interrupt has been serviced, the processor writes an End-of-Interrupt (EOI) input/output (I/O) command to the PIC and continues processing where it left off. The EOI command is typically sent through an I/O instruction to a register within the PIC.
In the multi-bused environment presented by the portable computer-expansion unit combination, the interrupt system must properly process the interrupts from each bus, behaving to the software as though only one bus exists to remain compatible with the vast base of software for the IBM PC. Further, the interrupt mechanism should minimize the number of signals required to be transmitted to minimize the pin-out, wiring, and connector costs associated with communicating these signals. To address these requirements, a new interrupt bus architecture known as the interrupt serial (IRQSER) bus was recently developed where peripherals and devices on ISA, EISA or PCI buses can transfer interrupt and other information from one system component to a system host controller in a time divisioned manner. Peripheral devices sample the serial bus and gate the interrupt signal onto the serial bus at the appropriate time to send their interrupt requests. In this manner, the serial bus is an independent channel apart from the ISA bus, EISA bus, or PCI bus for transmitting interrupt requests.
Although the interrupt serial bus provides a low cost method for flexibly communicating interrupt signals from a variety of sources to the interrupt controller, the serial nature of the interrupt bus creates a potential latency problem. In a typical interrupt scheme, a device asserts an interrupt request (IRQ) signal to request servicing. The IRQ signal instructs the interrupt controller to interrupt the CPU, which interrupts its interrupt service routine. The device responds by deasserting the IRQ signal, so the interrupt controller then knows the device is no longer requesting an interrupt.
But further, the interrupt controller then must also keep track of when the CPU has finished processing the current devices interrupt. It does so by maintaining a register that is written to by an End of Interrupt I/O command from the CPU, which the CPUs interrupt service routine writes immediately before exiting.
The problem arises because of the delay between when the CPU clears the devices interrupt by an I/O operation to an appropriate register and when the interrupt controller becomes aware that the device is no longer requesting an interrupt. Assume that the interrupt service routine clears the devices interrupt and then immediately sends an EOI command to the PIC. Although the device has dropped its interrupt request, that information has not passed over the interrupt serial bus IRQSER, so the interrupt controller believes the device is still asserting its IRQ signal. But then, the interrupt controller receives the EOI signal from the CPU. The interrupt controller then initiates another interruptxe2x80x94this time a spurious interruptxe2x80x94because the IRQ still appears asserted. Similar latency related problems can arise through missequencing of other device related signals to the PIC versus CPU I/O operations with the PIC. For example, the CPU may read the IRR, or interrupt request register before that register reflects a changed state of the requesting devices.
One solution to the latency problem is to delay the EOI signal (or other PIC related I/O operation) to the interrupt controller by the same amount of time as the maximum IRQSER cycle latency, ensuring that the events do not occur out of order. However, such delay is undesirable from a performance viewpoint. It is desirable that the write of the EOI command be presented to the PIC after the interrupt signal corresponding to the EOI has been cleared to ensure correct sequencing of the interrupt signal, but without unnecessarily delaying that operation.
An apparatus is provided for handling long latency interrupt signals in a computer which posts I/O write operations. The apparatus includes a posting buffer for posting write operations and circuitry for ensuring that I/O operations between the processor and the interrupt controller are properly synchronized to prevent false interrupts or inaccurate data from reaching the processor. Initially, the interrupt signals from various devices are serialized and transmitted over the interrupt serial bus to an interrupt controller, which interrupts the processor upon an interrupt request, causing an interrupt handling routine to be executed. At the end of the interrupt handling routine, the processor performs an I/O write of an EOI command to the interrupt controller. Upon receipt of a write operation that may be an EOI command, the controller verifies that the posting buffer for posting I/O writes to the expansion bus is empty. Such an I/O write could be the I/O operation necessary to clear the interrupt of the interrupting device. When this posting buffer is clear, the controller then imposes a pre-determined delay to ensure sufficient time for any cleared interrupt signal to be transmitted over the interrupt serial bus. Next, the controller checks the interrupt serial bus for activity. If the interrupt serial bus is idle, the I/O write operation that may be an EOI command is issued to the interrupt controller. Alternatively, the controller waits until the serial bus becomes inactive for two back-to-back cycles before allowing the EOI command to be written to the interrupt controller. The back-to-back wait requirement prevents false interrupts from being generated should the cleared interrupt miss its transmission window over the current interrupt serial bus cycle, or should the cleared interrupt be delayed by any interrupt serial bus transmission latencies. System performance is thus enhanced because I/O write operations are posted. The write posting capability allows the processor to execute the next instruction while the current write operation is still occurring. Further, the ability to write EOI commands immediately after the serial bus becomes idled allows the EOI operations to be performed within one interrupt serial cycle, thus enhancing performance. In addition, by ensuring that writes of EOI commands are properly sequenced, the present invention prevents spurious interrupts from reaching the processor.
Other I/O operations with the PIC are similarly handled. When an I/O operation is directed to the PIC, it is first determined that the write posting buffer is empty, followed by a delay or by waiting for an inactive serial bus for two back-to-back cycles. In this way, the PIC will accurately reflect the state of its connected devices before it provides device related information in response to a PIC related I/O command.
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{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
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Data storage devices, such as disk drives, allow host computers to store and retrieve large amounts of digital data in a fast and efficient manner. A typical disk drive includes a plurality of magnetic recording disks which are mounted to a rotatable hub of a spindle motor and rotated at a high speed. An array of read/write heads is disposed adjacent to data storage surfaces of the disks to transfer data between the disks and a host computer. The heads can be radially positioned over the disks by a rotary actuator and a closed loop servo system, and can fly in close proximity to the surfaces of the disks upon air bearings. The heads each typically contain a separate read element and write element.
Higher data storage density on the disks may be obtained by reading and writing data on narrower tracks on the disks and by maintaining a corresponding smaller fly height gap between the heads and the data storage surfaces. The fly height of a head can vary in response to air density changes in the disk drive, and in response to head temperature variations, such as while writing, which can affect the distance that the tip of the head protrudes therefrom (i.e., pole-tip protrusion). Some disk drives use a heater to controllably heat the head in order to vary the fly height of the head.
Maintaining the head fly height within an acceptable range is becoming increasingly more difficult as that range is reduced to obtain higher data storage densities. Operation outside the acceptable range may result in an unacceptable read/write bit error rate and/or undesirable contact between a head and a data storage surface and potential loss of data and/or damage to the data storage surface.
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{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
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The present invention relates to a novel and useful system for processing polluted water.
Water which is contaminated with oil and slurry material is often encountered during construction work, for example, deep trench excavation, deep pit excavation, highway construction, well drilling, and the like. In addition, water from storms flowing over construction sites again results in water which is contaminated with silt and oils. Removal of these contaminants or pollutants is generally referred to as “dewatering”.
In the past, fouled water had been removed from construction sites, transported to a treatment plant, and treated with conventional methods and equipment. Although successful in purifying the water for release to a drainage system, such methods are expensive and time consuming. In the past, many methods have been devised to treat dirty water. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 1,902,171 shows a septic tank which utilizes three chambers separated by strainers to filter solid sewage.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,278,545, 4,333,835, and 5,445,730 detail multi-chambered containers in which vertical plates are employed to separate solids from liquid contaminants.
U.S. Pat Nos. 2,852,140 and 4,997,562 describe treatment tanks in which contaminated water flows from one tank to another and gradually settles out solid contaminants, leaving pure water to be decanted from the tank.
PCT Publication WO88/06478, U.S. Pat. No. 5,266,191, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,626,748 describe liquid separators in which baffles or plates are employed to coalesce oil and remove solid matter at the same time.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,344,255 and PCT Publication WO93/12896 describe an oil, water, and sand separator which employs screening and a biodegradable detergent to emulsify oil for separation from the original mixture.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,574,329 illustrates a process for purifying water containing oil and solids in which a filter media, such as sand, is used. The sand is periodically cleaned by application of steam.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,460,677 shows a transportable sewage treatment apparatus in which baffles are used to stabilize the mixture process and permit the activation of the sewage by bacterial components.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,077,448 shows an oil/grit interceptor in which multi chambered tanks are used to treat the fluid rain water. The chamber is used to either separate oil from the water or grit from the water.
A system for processing polluted water which is portable and reliable would be a notable advance in the environmental control of contaminated water.
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{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
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