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the present invention provides a method for making polycarbonates . one embodiment of the method comprises reacting diphenylcarbonate with a dihydric phenol . the diphenylcarbonate is made by reacting a reaction mixture comprising aryl alcohol together with a dialkyl carbonate in a reactor to produce aryl alkylcarbonate and diaryl carbonate . | for purposes of the present application , the term “ distillation column ” shall refer to any sort of distillation column or reactive distillation column in which a process of distillation may be carried out . for purposes of the present invention , the term “ reaction mixture ” includes the materials fed into the distillation column , which typically includes the aromatic alcohol and the dialkyl carbonate , and optimally a catalyst , arylalkyl carbonate , and other optional substances such as , for example entraining agents and / or solvents . for purposes of the present application , the term “ yield ” or “ total yield ” shall refer to a weight percentage of the desired product ( s ) ( e . g ., aryl alkylcarbonates and diaryl carbonates ) relative to the total weight of the mixture of products and reactant determined after obtaining a stable continuous operation . for purposes of the present application , the term “ selectivity ” in the context of dpc shall refer to the weight ratio of dpc over the sum of the products dpc and pmc . for purposes of the present application , the term “ selectivity ” in the context of anisole content shall refer to the weight ratio of anisole over the total weight of the mixture of products and reactants determined after obtaining a stable continuous operation . for the purposes of the present application , the term “ top of the column ” is a relative term indicating a location within the upper ⅓ of a distillation column , which would include , but not necessarily be limited to , a position above the uppermost plate in said column . for purposes of the present application , the term “ bottom of the column ” is a relative term indicating a location within the lower ⅓ of a distillation column , which would include , but not necessarily be limited to , a position below the lower most plate in said column . for the purposes of the present application , the term “ lower rectification section ” shall refer to a lower section of a distillation column below the feeding point of at least one of the reactants wherein the chemical reaction is thought to occur in said section . for purposes of the present application , the term “ upper rectification section ” shall refer to an upper section of a distillation column above the lower rectification section , wherein the chemical reaction is generally thought not to occur in said rectification section . for the purposes of the present application , the term “ operating pressure ” is meant to refer to an average pressure reading during stable operation of the reaction , which pressure may vary throughout the process and upon start up and shut down . for the purposes of the present application , technical terms not defined herein should be interpreted according to grant & amp ; hackh &# 39 ; s chemical dictionary , 5 th ed ., roger grant and clair grant , mcgraw - hill , inc ., 1987 . relevant sections of all u . s . patents referred to herein are all hereby incorporated by reference . as shown in fig1 the chemical reaction employed in the present invention is a reaction between an aromatic alcohol and a dialkyl carbonate . the aromatic alcohol and dialkyl carbonate should be selected such that they will undergo an exchange reaction with each other . fig1 depicts a preferred reaction between phenol ( an aromatic alcohol ) and dimethyl carbonate ( a dialkyl alcohol ). fig1 further depicts the disproportionation of one of the arylalkyl carbonate product , phenylmethylcarbonate , to form the diaryl carbonate product , diphenyl carbonate . suitable aromatic alcohols which are useful in the present reaction include phenol and alkylphenol such as cresol , xylenol , trimethyl - phenol , tetramethylphenol , ethylphenol , propylphenol , butylphenol , diethylphenol , methylethylphenol , methylpropylphenol , dipropylphenol , methylbutylphenol , pentylphenol , hexylphenol , cyclohexylphenol , and alkoxyphenols such as methoxyphenol and ethyoxyplenol . suitable dialkyl carbonates which are useful in the present reaction include dimethylcarbonate , diethylcarbonate , methylethylcarbonate , ethylpropylcarbonate , dipropylcarbonate , propylbutylcarbonate , dibutylcarbonate , butylpentylcarbonate , dipentylcarbonate , pentylhexylcarbonate , dihexylcarbonate , hexylheptylcarbonate , diheptylcarbonate , heptyloctylcarbonate , dioctylcarbonate , octylnonylcarbonate , dinonylcarbonate , nonyldecylcarbonate , didecylcarbonate . it is also possible to use combinations of two or more aromatic alcohols and / or dialkyl carbonates . the product diarylcarbonates are useful starting materials for preparing polycarbonates by reacting them with dihydric phenols ( e . g ., bisphenol a ) via the melt reaction . a very early description of the melt synthesis of polycarbonates is found in u . s . pat . no . 3 , 153 , 008 , but the patent literature is replete with further descriptions such as that found in u . s . pat . no . 4 , 182 , 726 . preferred classes of catalysts for conducting the reaction shown in fig1 include titanium compounds like titaniumtetraphenoxide ( ti ( oph ) 4 ), and titaniumtetrachloride , organotin compounds , lead compounds , compounds of the copper family metals , zinc complexes , compounds of the iron family metals , and zirconium complexes . the catalyst selected should preferably have an activity of greater than 10 moles pmc / mole catalyst , but less than 400 moles pmc / mole catalyst . typically , about 0 . 5 to 1 . 0 molar percent of the catalyst is used , and more preferably about 0 . 6 to 0 . 8 molar percent based on the phenol fed into the reaction . the catalyst is typically fed into one or more components of the reaction mixture before introduction into the distillation column , but it may be introduced into the column separately , before or during addition of the reaction mixture . the column may be kept under an inert atmosphere and may be pre - dried if desired . as shown in the examples , the method according to the present invention is capable of producing very high yields . under preferred conditions , the method may be used to produce a total yield of aryl alkyl carbonate plus diaryl carbonate of at least 40 %, and optimally at least 50 %. also , the method is capable of producing total yields of diaryl carbonates versus total diaryl carbonates and arylakyl carbonates of greater than 25 %, or more preferably 30 %, or even 40 %. in order to achieve such high yields in a single column , the conditions within the distillation column must be carefully controlled . specifically , the conditions for reacting dmc and phenol to make dmc and dpc should satisfy requirements ( 1 ) and ( 2 ) below : ( 1 ) the catalyst should have a catalytic activity such that pmc is produced at a rate of 40 moles pmc per mole of catalyst wherein the reaction temperature is 210 ° c ., the dialkyl carbonate is dimethyl carbonate , the aromatic hydroxy compound is phenol and the dimethyl carbonate / phenol ratio equals 3 . 2 ( kg / kg ) in the reaction system . in the case of ti ( oph ) 4 , the optimum molar percent of catalyst is 0 . 7 based on the amount of phenol used . for systems using different reactants , optimum factors can be determined by repeating the experiments described in the examples below , and by analyzing the data as shown herein . ( 2 ) the reaction should be conducted under conditions satisfying the following relational expressions : a ) pmc + dpc yield ( % ) = - 197 . 5 - 40 . 9 * c + 4 . 07 * r + 19 . 4 * p - 0 . 930 * t - 15 . 6 * c 2 + 2 . 58 * c * r - 0 . 294 * c * t - 0 . 085 * p * t where c is the concentration of catalyst in molar percent based on hydroxy compound , r is the ratio of dmc flow rate ( g / h ) to phenol feed flow rate ( g / h ), p is the column pressure ( in kg / cm 2 gauge ) and t is the reaction temperature ( in ° c .). fig3 shows this relation for different dmc to phenol flow ratios and reaction temperatures at constant catalyst amount ( 0 . 7 mol %) and constant pressure ( 4 . 6 kg / cm 2 gauge ). the target is a pmc + dpc yield greater or equal than 50 %. as shown in fig3 this target requires that reaction temperatures are higher than 220 ° c . and dmc to phenol feed flow ratios greater than 4 to 5 . b ) anisole selectivity ( % ) = 119 . 4 - 4 . 10 * c + 2 . 59 * r - 1 . 13 * t + 0 . 003 * t 2 * 0 . 143 * c * r + 0 . 023 * c * t - 0 . 011 * r * t fig4 shows this relation for different dmc to phenol flow ratios and reaction temperatures and at constant catalyst amount ( 0 . 7 mol %). the target anisole selectivity is less than or equal to 0 . 50 %. as can be seen in fig4 this target requires that reaction temperatures be less than 230 to 235 ° c ., and that dmc to phenol feed flow ratios are higher than 4 to 5 ( especially at high temperatures ). c ) dpc selectivity versus pmc + dpc yield = - 237 . 5 - 84 . 9 * c + 1 . 32 * r + 19 . 5 * p + 1 . 18 * t - 12 . 98 * c 2 + 3 . 37 * c * r + 0 . 403 * c * t - 0 . 098 * p * t fig5 shows this relation for different dmc to phenol flow ratios and reaction temperatures at constant catalyst amount ( 0 . 7 mol %) and constant pressure ( 4 . 6 kg / cm 2 gauge ). the target is to maximize dpc yield versus pmc + dpc yield . it follows from fig5 that maximum dpc yield versus pmc + dpc yield is obtained at high reaction temperatures and high dmc to phenol feed flow ratios . analysis of the above relational expressions reveals the following optimal operation conditions for the reaction of dmc and phenol to form dpc and pmc : the amount of catalyst ( c ): should be 0 . 5 to 1 . 0 molar percent , preferably 0 . 6 to 0 . 8 molar percent ; the column pressure ( p ): 3 to 6 kg / cm 2 gauge , preferably 4 to 5 kg / cm 2 gauge ; the reflux ratio should be between 0 . 2 and 3 , preferably between 0 . 4 and 1 . 0 ; the reaction temperature and dmc to phenol feed flow ratio are chosen according to the shaded region in fig6 . this region denotes the compilation of reaction temperatures and dmc to phenol feed flow ratios that result in a total yield of pmc and dpc of 50 % or higher and in selectivity &# 39 ; s to anisole of 0 . 5 % or less . the shaded region of fig6 was obtained after determining the overlap of total yield of pmc and dpc of 50 % or more from fig3 with anisole selectivity &# 39 ; s of 0 . 5 % or less from fig4 . it follows that the marked region consists of reaction temperatures between 220 and 235 ° c . and dmc to phenol feed flow ratios between 4 and 6 . remarkably , the marked region is also the region in which dpc selectivity relative to the total yield of pmc and dpc is high : between 30 and 45 %, as shown in fig5 . therefore , this region is a truly optimum region that meets the targets of maximizing yield and minimizing by - product formation . without wishing to limit the invention to any single theory of operation , the reason for the high dpc yield versus pmc + dpc yield is thought to be the combination of high temperature and low to medium pressure . these two conditions result in low concentrations of dmc in the reactor mixture ( dmc is a low boiling component ) and high concentrations of pmc , so the disproportionation reaction of pmc to dpc and dmc is shifted towards the dpc side . the present invention is further illustrated in a number of working examples , summarized in table 1 . (***) pmc yield = moles pmc generated per mole phenol in feed , dpc yield = moles dpc generated times 2 per mole phenol in feed , pmc + dpc yield = pmc yield plus dpc yield . anisole selectivity = moles anisole generated per mole phenol converted a pilot distillation column ( stainless steel ) as shown in fig2 was equipped with 40 perforated plates . the plate diameters were 50 mm for the bottom 20 trays and 40 mm for the top 20 trays . the total height of the column was 3 . 4 m , with a plate - to - plate distance of 50 mm for the bottom 20 trays and 40 mm for the top 20 trays . the holdup of the bottom 20 trays was 471 ml of liquid , the holdup of the bottom compartment of the column was 460 ml . heat was supplied at the bottom of the column and to the bottom 20 trays of the column by means of electric heating mantles . the phenol feed ( 548 g / h ) and catalyst feed ( titanium tetraphenolate ( 40 . 3 wt -%) dissolved in a mixture of dpc ( 36 . 5 wt -%) and heavies ( 23 . 2 wt -%), flow rate is 42 . 7 g / h ) were mixed ( resulting in a catalyst percentage of 0 . 70 mole -% versus phenol ), preheated to 145 ° c . and then fed to tray 20 of the column . dmc ( 1741 g / h ) was preheated to 145 ° c . and fed to the bottom compartment of the column below the first tray . the column was operated at a temperature of 210 ° c . at the bottom of the column , at a pressure of 4 . 6 kg / cm 2 gauge measured at the top of the column , and with a reflux ratio of 0 . 64 . the overhead was cooled to 90 ° c . in a condenser and part of the overhead was sent back as reflux to the top of the column . to compensate for heat losses to the environment , the bottom 20 trays were heated such that tray 7 ( counting from the bottom tray ) was kept at 5 ° c . below the bottom temperature and tray 12 ( counting from the bottom tray ) was kept at 10 ° c . below the bottom temperature . table 1 shows the bottom flow rate and bottom flow composition under steady state conditions . table 1 also includes the pmc + dpc yield , the dpc yield relative to the pmc + dpc yield and the selectivity for anisole . the top stream always consisted of dmc and methanol and is not included in the table 1 . using the same apparatus described in example 1 , experiments were carried out under the reaction conditions indicated in table 1 . results are shown in table 1 . examples 25 to 32 correspond to preferred conditions according to the present invention . the results shown in table 1 were analyzed and fitted into a model using a “ custom response surface design ” from the software package minitab ® for windows , release 12 . 2 . the commercially available software operates by using a response surface method to determine the relationship between one or more response variables ( for instance yield or selectivity ) and a set of quantitative experimental variables or factors ( for instance temperature , pressure , reactant concentrations , etc .). the experimental data are fitted into a model . the type of model is chosen by the user . for instance , the user can choose a linear or a quadratic model . the fitting itself is done via a least squares method . the computational method is givens transformations using linpack routines . the method is described in : linpack ( 1979 ), linpack user &# 39 ; s guide by j . j . dongarra , j . r . bunch , c . b . moler , and g . w . stewart , society for industrial and applied mathematics , philadelphia , pa ., which is incorporated by reference herein . other known curve fitting methods could also be used . although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof , other versions are possible . for example , the reaction could be conducted in a type of reactor other than a distillation column . alternatively , the reaction could be conducted in a reaction column connected to a distillation column . also , the reaction could be conducted using a fixed catalyst bed rather than using a homogeneous catalysts . also , many other variations are possible . therefore , the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein . | US-68383302-A |
the corresponding machine tool or milling machine for carrying out the method described has a milling spindle which is displaceable in three spatial directions and with which the workpiece can be machined in a machining region , the machine tool or milling machine having at least one mounting slide , with which the workpiece , for the first machining step , can be mounted in gripping adapters . furthermore , the machine tool or milling machine has at least one rocker , with which the partly machined workpiece can be mounted by means of at least one special gripping adapter in the first , finally machined region of the workpiece for the second machining step . | fig1 and 2 show a blade milling machine in perspective view . the milling machine has a base frame 1 on which the individual elements are mounted . the two guideways 2 for the base slide unit 3 of the uni milling spindle 7 are provided at a defined angle on the rear side of the base frame 1 . the two guideways 9 for the a - axis slides 11 and 12 are provided in the center region . the guideways 10 for the two rockers 21 are provided at the front . the chip passage 13 is integrated between the guideways 2 and 9 . the chip passage 13 has been transversely ribbed in order to ensure that the frame is not weakened . the y slide unit 4 of the uni milling spindle 7 , with which the y stroke ( y ) of the spindle is carried out , is mounted on the base slide unit 3 of the uni milling spindle 7 , which carries out the x stroke ( x ) of the spindle . the z ram 5 is mounted on the y slide 4 at an angle of 90 degrees to the y stroke . the spindle carries out the z stroke ( z ) by means of said z ram 5 . the uni spindle 7 itself is mounted in a rotary axis 8 , with which it can be swiveled by +/− 110 degrees . for pure turning work , a fixed tool - mounting system , such as an hsk interface for example , is provided in the flange part of the high - speed spindle . with the two blade rotation axes 16 and 17 of the two mounting slides 11 and 12 about the axes a and c , respectively , the clamped blades can be run in both turning operation and nc operation . they form the two blade rotation axes a and c . to accommodate gripping adapters , these rotation axes are designed with a standard hsk interface . the two blade rotation axes 16 and 17 are mounted on the two rotation linear slides 11 and 12 , by means of which they can perform the linear movements u and v . if required , the two nc linear axes u and v can be operated as gantry axes . for higher feed rates , the x linear axis of the milling spindle 6 is operated in opposition to the two nc linear axes u and v in order to both halve the acceleration slopes and double the maximum milling speed . the uni motor spindle itself is integrated in a rotary axis 8 and fixed by quick - clamping systems . the energy and signal transmission from the machine to the uni motor spindle 7 is effected via a “ plug - in interface ”. mounted on the end face are the two rocker slide units 18 and 19 , which perform the two linear movements x ′ and u ′. mounted on said rocker slide units 18 and 19 are the plunger tilting axes b ′ and v ′, which can tilt the plunger and thus the rocker 21 with their special gripping adapters 22 into the desired position . the two plungers perform the linear movements z ′ and w ′ about the correct extension points . mounted on the plungers are the two nc rockers 21 , which perform the rotary and setting movements a ′ and c ′, respectively . mounted on said nc rockers 21 are the two special gripping adapters 22 which are intended for accommodating the partly finish - milled blades in the finished regions and clamp in a hydraulic manner ( cf ., in this respect , in particular fig7 ). to change the special gripping adapters 22 , they can each be moved to the right and left toward the end of the base frame into the protected region . here , exchange can be effected in parallel with the machining time . fig3 shows a detail of the machining region of the milling machine when the first machining step is being carried out . here , it can be seen how the blank is gripped by the two adapters 14 at both ends , using a shaped gripping adapter , and how as far as possible the entire region arranged between the two holding points is machined via the cutting tool 25 . fig4 shows the position of the machine at the machine zero point , relative to which the following deflections of the individual slides and units are provided . this for two different types of machine — a small variant ( hstm800 ) and a large variant ( hstm2000 ). in this case , the values for the main axes are as follows : axis hstm800 hstm2000 x +/− 1050 mm +/− 1200 mm y +/− 310 mm +/− 310 mm z + 910 mm + 910 mm − 100 mm − 100 mm u + 150 mm + 150 mm − 1100 mm − 1550 mm v − 150 mm − 150 mm + 1100 mm + 1550 mm a / c endless endless b +/− 95 degrees +/− 95 degrees the values for the superimposed device with the rockers 21 are as follows : axis hstm800 hstm2000 left - hand rocker x ′ + 1260 mm + 1700 mm − 100 mm − 100 mm z ′ − 55 mm − 55 mm + 145 mm + 145 mm b ′ 0 0 + 50 degrees + 50 degrees a ′ +/− 55 degrees +/− 55 degrees right - hand rocker u ′ − 1260 mm − 1700 mm + 100 mm + 100 mm w ′ − 55 mm − 55 mm + 145 mm + 145 mm v ′ 0 0 + 50 degrees + 50 degrees c ′ +/− 55 degrees +/− 55 degrees for the displacement dimensions specified above , such a milling machine has a size of 6 × 9 × 4 . 5 m . the method of machining a blank from all directions using a machine as has just been described above is now to be shown . in this case , by way of example , the overall shape to be achieved involves a turbine blade . here , fig5 to 7 show individual sections of the production method . the following shapes and materials are used as raw material : bars ( rectangular shape , round or any other desired cross section ), forged or cast blanks , provided with material code for quality assurance ( digits , letter code laser - cut , punched or rotationally stamped ). in this case , the overall shape to be achieved has the following qualities : blade qualities : surface n4 - n5 tolerances ± 0 . 002 mm sizes : length & gt ; 120 mm & lt ; 2400 mm rotating diameter & gt ; 50 mm & lt ; 800 mm weight & gt ; 10 kg & lt ; 400 kg to this end , a blank 32 of any desired shape is brought manually and / or by means of a handling system into the blade milling machine , which may also be in a flexible cell , and is brought out again by the same transport systems after the machining . in this case , the method is to be demonstrated with the aid of two different blanks ; on the one hand using a blank 32 in the form of a raw material bar ( point 1 of the sequence of method steps specified below ), and on the other hand using a blank 32 in the form of a cast or forged blade ( point 2 of the sequence of method steps specified below ). when a raw material bar is used , it is clamped directly in place by means of a robot , whereas in the case of complex parts , such as cast or forged blades for example , the blank 32 is preferably first of all clamped in place in an adapter , and then the blank together with the adapter is inserted into the machine by means of a robot . the actual machining of such a blank 32 is then described with reference to point 3 . 1 ) blank 32 in the form of a raw material bar 1 . 1 ) the raw material bar is placed on a loading belt or ramp , with which it passes to the handling system at a transfer location . 1 . 2 ) here , the raw material bar is oriented for the defined transfer . 1 . 3 ) here , the raw material bar is clamped with a gripper and is brought to a material - code - reading station by means of the handling system . 1 . 4 ) the material code is read and signaled to the production control system . 1 . 5 ) in this way , the raw material bar is recorded in a clearly defined manner and assigned a production number . 1 . 6 ) after that , the raw material bar is transported to the milling machine ( hstm ) by means of the handling system . 1 . 7 ) the raw material bar is then brought into the machine to the transfer or gripping position between the two a axes ( nc rotation axes 16 and 17 ). 1 . 8 ) by traverse of the handling system in the direction of the a axis 16 or 17 and / or by the traverse of the two nc linear axes 11 , 12 , on which the axes 16 , 17 are mounted , the raw material bar passes into the raw - material - bar gripping adapters or adapter 14 . after the gripping of the raw - material - bar gripping adapter 14 ( accurate positioning , e . g . via a stop 31 and fixing via clamping jaws 30 ), the handling system leaves the machine working space and assumes other tasks in the fms ( fig5 and 6 ). 1 . 10 ) the actual production steps ( item 3 further below ) start . 2 ) blank 32 in the form of a cast or forged blade 2 . 1 ) in the case of the forged and cast blades , a shaped gripping adapter 14 engaging on the root and / or tip of the blade is clamped outside the cell on a specially designated gripping surface on an adjusting and gripping device , on which the blades are centrally oriented . the blade , with shaped gripping adapter 14 on one side or on both sides , is then fed into the pallet station onto a gripping pallet . 2 . 1 ) the loaded pallet is then fed into the pallet station . 2 . 2 ) to remove a blade ( gss ) gripped in the shaped gripping adapters , said blade must be brought to the handling system at the transfer location . 2 . 3 ) here , before removal of the gss , its material code is read and transmitted to the production control system . 2 . 4 ) for further clearly defined identification of this blade , a chip is inscribed by a writing system and is provided in one of the shaped gripping adapters 14 . 2 . 5 ) in this way , the gss is recorded in a clearly defined manner and assigned a production number . 2 . 6 ) after that , the gss is gripped by the gripper of the handling system and is brought by the latter to the milling machine ( hstm ) ( cf ., in this respect , fig3 , in which the gripping adapter 14 is shown as a shaped gripping adapter for a gss ). 2 . 7 ) the gss is then brought into the machine to the transfer or gripping position between the two a axes ( nc rotation axes 11 , 12 ). 2 . 8 ) by traverse of the handling system in the direction of an a axis and / or by the traverse of the two nc linear axes 11 , 12 , the shaped gripping adapters or adapter 14 are / is fixed and clamped in the a axis or axes . 2 . 9 ) after the gripping of the shaped gripping adapters 14 , the handling system leaves the machine working space and assumes other tasks in the fms ( fig5 and 6 ). 2 . 10 ) the actual production steps ( item 3 further below ) start . the blank 32 is now gripped via the two gripping adapters 14 between the two mounting slides 11 , 12 or , in the case of support on one side , by only one mounting slide , as shown in fig5 and 6 . in this case , as can be seen in fig6 , the center of gravity 35 of the blank , which normally lies on the rotation axis 33 of the mounting slides 11 , 12 , and the blade rotary center 34 are not usually superimposed . 3 . 1 ) in the first step , during the first machining step in the first setup , all the roughing operations in the rhombus , duct and tip region of the gripped blade , except for a defined allowance for the end contour of the blade , are carried out . this operation can be carried out by conventional milling or by helical roughing . to this end , the roughing tools are clamped in place in the uni motor spindle 7 by means of an integrated tool changer . the rough milling itself is effected by means of an nc program . 3 . 2 ) in the second step , during the first machining step , using the “ semi - finishing tools ”, the already clamped , rough - milled blade is given a constant allowance ( plus 0 . 2 to 1 . 2 mm ) relative to the final contour by spiral ( helical ) and linear milling . the allowance is dependent on the type of blade . in various blade types , this step 3 . 2 may also be omitted . 3 . 3 ) in the third step , during the first machining step , using the “ finishing tools ”, the complete blade channel is given the desired contour and surface quality by spiral milling ( helical milling ). 3 . 4 ) in the fourth step , during the first machining step , the rhombic surfaces at the tip and root , including the blade - suspension and sealing parts , are then produced , i . e . the functional surfaces of the root geometry ( h root , etc .) are already produced in this step . 3 . 5 ) after that , still in the first setup , the turbine blade is measured by means of a position - or contour - measuring system ( probe or laser measuring systems ). the measuring data are processed for the documentation and , if necessary , correction data are prepared for the next turbine blade production and are transmitted to the controller and to the control system for including in the corresponding nc program . after this operation , the blade is finished except for the two end faces at the tip and root and the first machining step has been completed . 3 . 6 ) in order to be able to machine these two end faces , the rhombic position of the blade is brought by the two a rotation axes 16 , 17 and linear axes u , v into a defined transfer position ( rotary angle of the a axis ). for the transfer itself , the two rockers 21 are brought into this position on the front side of the milling machine . after that , the rockers 21 ( cf . fig7 ) are swung in by their swivel axes b ′ and v ′, respectively , and are then extended toward the machine center . attached to this plunger is a special gripping device 22 , with which the blade is then hydraulically gripped in special gripping and locating jaws . for the precise positioning , the special gripping device 22 can be additionally positioned by an nc tilting axis a ′ or c ′, respectively . for the different blade geometries , the special gripping and locating jaws 14 are exchanged outside the working space on the right and left at the front side of the machine in parallel with the machining time . furthermore , the gripping stroke can be increased by exchanging the extended hydraulic cylinder . 3 . 7 ) once the blades are then clamped in the two special gripping devices 22 , the two shaped gripping adapters 14 are released and the a axes 11 , 12 are brought to the right and left on the outside into “ parking positions ”. this is necessary in order to avoid a subsequent collision with the milling spindle 7 and with the axes y , z and b . 3 . 8 ) for the actual machining of the end faces of the root and tip , especially in the case of long blades , the two rockers 21 are moved to the right or left in order to obtain sufficient clearance space for the uni spindle 7 , etc . 3 . 9 ) by introducing the requisite tools as replacements into the uni spindle 7 , these two faces are then finish - milled , if need be , by rotating the b axis of the motor spindle through 90 degrees . 3 . 10 ) the position may be checked if required . 3 . 11 ) after the flushing process , which removes all the contaminants from the blade , one or more position - or contour - measuring systems ( probe or laser measuring systems ) are clamped in place in the uni motor spindle 7 . furthermore , a surface - quality measuring system can be exchanged here . the blade is then measured with these devices . the measuring data are processed in the operating computer in order to be able to carry out , if appropriate , correction machining . furthermore , the quality documentation is prepared here . the second machining step in the second setup has thus been completed . 3 . 12 ) the blade is then tilted toward the handling system by lifting the rocker 21 to the transfer station . 3 . 13 ) after that , the blade , by means of the same handling system , if need be after previous gripper exchange , is brought to the inscription station in order to provide it with a clearly defined code ( usually a numerical code ) here . 3 . 14 ) after this inscription , the blade passes into the washing and preserving machine , from which it is then discharged . 3 base slide unit ( x direction of the milling spindle ) 33 a axis and c axis , respectively , of mounting slides | US-90211704-A |
the present invention relates to a multiple processing machine having a punch press for punching a sheet - like workpiece and a ram - operated forming press for performing a variety of forming operations such as bending , shearing , and drawing on the workpiece . the punch press and forming press are interconnected with each other along a central partition . a feeding device is also provided adjacent the punching and forming press on a central worktable . in addition , a tool changing device is provided to change the tools in either or both of the punching and forming presses . | referring to fig1 through 3 , there is shown a multiple processing machine which is generally designated by the numeral 1 and has been designed to punch and form a work - sheet w such as sheet metal . the multiple processing machine 1 comprises a punching press 3 having upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 and a forming press 9 having upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 . the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 are integrally constructed or integrally connected with each other by suitable means and they are covered by a cover 15 . as will be described in great detail hereinafter , the punching press 3 is worked to punch a variety of holes on the work - sheet w , and the forming press 9 is worked to perform a variety of forming operations such as bending , shearing and drawing including beading , louvering and burring on the work - sheet w . the multiple processing machine 1 comprises also a central work - table 17 so that the work - sheet w may be placed thereon and slid and fed into the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 . in the preferred embodiment , the multiple processing machine 1 is further provided with a pair of side work - tables 19 and 21 which are disposed on both sides of the central work - table 17 and level therewith . the central work - table 17 and the side work - tables 19 and 21 are provided at their top surfaces with a plurality of ball sliders 23 so that the work - sheet w can freely slide thereon . the multiple processing machine 1 further comprises a work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 so as to feed and position the work - sheet w into the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 . also , the multiple processing machine 1 is provided with a tool changing apparatus 27 to change the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 in the forming press 9 . referring especially to fig3 the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 is movably mounted on the central work - table 17 so that it may be horizontally moved backward and frontward , toward and away from the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 . the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 comprises a first carriage 29 which is movable on the central work - table 17 and a second carriage 31 which is movably mounted on the first carriage 29 and is provided with a plurality of clamping means 33 for clamping the work - sheet w . the first carriage 29 is movably mounted on a pair of rails 35 and 37 on the central work - table 17 so that it may be horizontally moved toward and away from the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 . specifically , the rails 35 and 37 are horizontally disposed in parallel with each other in slits 39 and 41 , respectively , which are formed in the central work - table 17 . the first carriage 29 is so arranged as to be moved on the rails 35 and 37 by a lead screw 47 which is horizontally disposed in a slit 49 formed on the central work - table 17 and is driven by a motor 51 mounted on a portion of the central work - table 17 . also the second carriage 31 is so arranged as to be horizontally moved on the first carriage 29 by a lead screw 53 which is horizontally disposed on the first carriage 29 at right angles to the rails 35 and 37 and is driven by a motor 55 . in this connection , the motors 51 and 55 are numerically controlled to drive the first and second carriages 29 and 31 of the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . in the above described arrangement , the first carriage 29 of the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 will be moved by the lead screw 47 on the rails 35 and 37 toward and away from the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 to carry the second carriage 31 , when the motor 51 is in motion . of course , when the first carriage 29 is moved , the work - sheet w which is clamped by the clamping means 33 held on the second carriage 31 will be moved toward and away from the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 . also , when the motor 55 is in motion , the second carriage 31 will be moved by the lead screw 53 on the first carriage 29 to move the work - sheet w along the course which is normal to the rails 35 and 37 . thus , the work - sheet w can be fed and positioned anywhere in the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 by moving both or either of the first and second carriages 29 and 31 of the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . as seen from fig2 and 3 , the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 are integrally constructed of three upright plates 57 , 59 and 61 , each of which may be c - shaped as shown in fig4 . the upright plates 57 , 59 and 61 are vertically disposed in parallel with each other under the cover 15 and behind the central work - table 17 . of course , the upright plate 57 is integrally connected to the upright plate 59 at a space by means of suitable connecting members , and the upright plate 59 is also integrally connected to the upright plate 61 in the similar manner . in this connection , the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 can be separately constructed and connected with each other by suitable means such as bolts , although they are integrally constructed of the three upright plates 57 , 59 and 61 in the preferred embodiment . stated otherwise , another upright plate can be employed for the punching press 3 or the forming press 9 in addition to the three upright plates 57 , 59 and 61 in such a manner as to be integrally connected to the upright plate 59 . referring to fig4 and 5 , the punching press 3 is provided with a tool holding unit 63 to hold the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 , both of which are plural in number . the tool holding unit 63 is c - shaped in vertical cross section in such a manner as to have an upper arm 63au and a lower arm 63al which are formed to extend horizontally in parallel with each other to hold the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 , respectively . the tool holding unit 63 is mounted on a bed 65 between the upright plates 57 and 59 at the front portion of the punching press 3 in connection with the central work - table 17 in a manner such that the upper and lower arms 63au and 63al extend forwardly . the upper punching tools 5 are detachably mounted at the front end of the upper arm 63au of the tool holding unit 63 in a horizontal line normal to the rails 35 and 37 for the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . the lower punching tools 7 are also detachably mounted at the front end of the lower arm 63al of the tool holding unit 63 in a horizontal line in the same manner as the upper punching tools 5 . the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 are varied in size and shape , and pairs of the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 common in size and shape are disposed in vertical alignment with each other to cooperate with each other to punch the work - sheet w . in this arrangement , the work - sheet w to be punched is fed and positioned between the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 in punching operations by the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . referring again to fig4 and 5 , the punching press 3 is also provided with a ram 67 which has a striker 69 at its lower end to act on the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 in punching operations . the ram 67 is vertically movably disposed between the upright plates 57 and 59 and is connected by means of a pair of connecting rods 71r and 71l to an eccentric shaft 73 which is horizontally held between the upright plates 57 and 59 and is driven by a motor ( not shown ) through a clutch and brake unit 75 . of course , the ram 67 is so disposed as to be raised and lowered by the eccentric shaft 73 and enable the striker 69 to act on the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 when lowered . also , the striker 69 is held in a t - slot 67t which is horizontally formed along the lower end of the ram 67 , and it is so arranged as to be laterally moved or shifted in the t - slot 67t just over the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 . the arrangement is such that in punching operations the striker 69 will be laterally shifted at the lower end of the ram 67 to selectively act on a desired pair of the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 when lowered by the ram 67 . in this connection , the striker 69 is laterally moved on the ram 67 in a suitable manner under a numerical control which is connected also to the motors 51 and 55 for driving the first and second carriages 29 and 31 of the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . in the above described arrangement , in punching operations the work - sheet w is fed and positioned between the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 of the punching press 3 by the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . before or as soon as the work - sheet w is positioned between the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 , the striker 69 held by the ram 67 is laterally moved thereon and positioned just over a desired pair of the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 . then , when the ram 67 is lowered by the eccentric shaft 73 , the striker 69 will be lowered to enable the desired pair of the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 to punch the work - sheet w which is held by the clamping means 33 of the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . of course , a number of holes varied in size and shape can be automatically and continuously punched in the work - sheet w by moving the striker 69 on the ram 67 and the first and second carriages 29 and 31 of the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 under a numerical control . as seen from the above description , the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 of the punching press 3 are held by the tool holding unit 63 away from the frame of the punching press 3 including the upright plates 57 and 59 which are subjected to reactions occurring during punching operations . accordingly , the upper and lower punching tools 5 and 7 can be kept in vertical alignment with each other to perform accurate punching operations . referring to fig6 and 7 , the forming press 9 is provided with a ram 77 which is vertically movably disposed between the upright plates 59 and 61 to carry the upper forming tool 11 . the ram 77 is connected by means of a pair of connecting rods 79r and 79l to an eccentric shaft 81 which is horizontally held between the upright plates 59 and 61 and is driven by a motor ( not shown ) through a clutch and brake unit 83 . in the preferred embodiment , the ram 77 is provided with a plurality of vertical guide rods 85 and is held guided by a guide member 87 in which the guide rods 85 are vertically slidably held . the guide member 87 is disposed between the upright plates 59 and 61 in a cantilever manner to horizontally extend frontwardly so that the ram 77 may be vertically movable therein . the upper forming tool 11 is detachably fixed to the underside of the ram 77 by a suitable means such as a clamping means of a hydraulic motor . also , the lower forming tool 13 , which is located just beneath the upper forming tool 11 , is detachably mounted on a bolster 89 which is provided just beneath the ram 77 , and it is kept fixed by a suitable means such as a clamping means of a hydraulic motor . in the above described arrangement , in forming operations the work - sheet w is fed and positioned into the lower forming tool 13 of the forming press 9 by the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . then , when the ram 77 is lowered by the eccentric shaft 81 , the upper forming tool 11 will be lowered to cooperate with the lower forming tool 13 to form the work - sheet w . in this connection , it is to be noted that various kinds of forming tools can be used to perform a variety of forming operations such as bending , shearing and drawing including notching as well as beading , louvering and burring , although the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 have not been shown in detail in the preferred embodiment . referring again to fig6 and 7 , in order to facilitate changing of the upper forming tool 11 , a plurality of rollers 91 are provided on the underside of the ram 77 so that the upper forming tool 11 may slide thereon horizontally . the rollers 91 are freely rotatably disposed in two rows on a pair of elongated holding members 93 and 95 which are horizontally fixed to the underside of the ram 77 in parallel with each other so that the upper forming tool 11 may slide thereon rightward and leftward as viewed in fig7 . in order to facilitate also changing of the lower forming tool 13 , a plurality of rollers 97 are provided on both of the front and rear edges of the bolster 89 so that the lower forming tool 13 may horizontally slide thereon in the directions as the upper forming tools 11 . the rollers 97 are freely rotatably disposed in two rows on a pair of elongated holding members 99 and 101 which are provided on the front and rear edges , respectively , of the bolster 89 in parallel with each other . the holding members 99 and 101 for the lower forming tool 13 are vertically movably disposed and are so arranged as to be raised by a suitable means such as hydraulic motors to project the rollers 97 out of the top surface of the bolster 89 only when the lower forming tool 13 is to be moved thereon . also , hydraulic or pneumatic motors 103 and 105 having piston rods 107 and 109 , respectively , are so provided as to move the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 , respectively . the hydraulic or pneumatic motors 103 and 105 are horizontally mounted on the upright plate 59 in a manner such that their piston rods 107 and 109 will horizontally project to pull onto and push out of the ram 77 and the bolster 89 , respectively . in order to enable the hydraulic or pneumatic motors 103 and 105 to move the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 , the arrangement may be such that a t bolt is fixed to each of the piston rods 107 and 109 and a t - slot is vertically formed at each end of the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 so that the t bolt may engage with the t - slot . in the above described arrangement , the upper forming tool 11 is pulled and pushed by the hydraulic or pneumatic motor 103 on the rollers 91 when it is to be mounted onto and removed from the ram 77 . the upper forming tool 11 raised by a suitable means such as a clamping means of a hydraulic motor to be mounted onto the ram 77 from the rollers 91 , and it is lowered onto the rollers 91 from the ram 77 when released from such a clamping means . the lower forming tool 13 is also pulled and pushed by the hydraulic or pneumatic motor 105 on the rollers 97 which have been raised out of the top surface of the bolster 89 , when it is to be mounted onto and removed from the bolster 89 . the lower forming tool 13 will be mounted onto the bolster 89 when the rollers 97 are lowered by the holding members 99 and 101 from the top surface of the bolster 89 . referring to fig7 and 8 , the tool changing apparatus 27 is placed at the side of the forming press 9 to send and receive the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 onto and from the rollers 91 and 97 , respectively , of the forming press 9 . the tool changing apparatus 27 is movably disposed on a pair of rails 111 and 113 which are laid in parallel with the rails 35 and 37 for the work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . the tool changing apparatus 27 comprises a rectangular base 115 on which a pair of front guide posts 117 and a pair of rear guide posts 119 are vertically fixed , and it comprises also a tool holding carriage 121 which is vertically mounted on the base 115 to hold the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 . the base 115 is movably placed on the rails 111 and 113 by means of wheels 123 and is kept stopped in position by a stopping means 125 . the front guide posts 117 are fixed at the front end of the base 115 and are connected with each other by a beam member 127 , and the rear guide posts 119 are disposed at the rear end of the base 115 and are connected with each other by another beam member 129 . the tool holding carriage 121 of the tool changing apparatus 27 is so arranged as to be vertically moved along the guide posts 117 and 119 to send and receive the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 onto and from the rollers 91 and 97 , respectively , of the forming press 9 . the tool holding carriage 121 comprises a rectangular base 131 on which a pair of front posts 133 and a pair of rear posts 135 are vertically fixed . the front posts 133 are connected with each other by a beam member 137 , and the rear posts 135 are connected likewise by a beam member 139 and also the beam members 137 and 139 are connected with each other by a plurality of beam members 141 . the tool holding carriage 121 is provided with a plurality of rollers 143 on which the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 are horizontally slidably held to be moved onto and from the rollers 91 and 97 , respectively , of the forming press 9 . the rollers 143 are freely rotatably disposed on an upper pair of front and rear holding members 145f and 145r and a lower pair of front and rear holding members 147f and 147r . the upper front and rear holding members 145f and 145r are horizontally fixed on a level with each other to the front posts 133 and the rear posts 135 , respectively , to enable the rollers 143 to hold the upper forming tool 11 . the lower front and rear holding members 147f and 147r are likewise fixed to the front posts 133 and the rear posts 139 , respectively , to enable the rollers 143 to hold the lower forming tool 13 . in the preferred embodiment , two sets of the upper front and rear holding members 145f and 145r and the lower front and rear holding members 147f and 147r are provided so as to hold two pairs of the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 . the arrangement is such that the rollers 143 on the upper front and rear holding members 145f and 145r and the lower front and rear holding members 147f and 147r will be brought onto the same levels as the rollers 91 and 97 by the tool holding carriage 121 which is vertically moved . it will be understood that the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 can be sent onto and received from the rollers 91 and 97 of the forming press 9 when the rollers 143 of the tool holding carriage 121 are on the same levels as the rollers 91 and 97 . also , there are provided a plurality of fixing means 149 so as to fix the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 on the tool holding carriage 121 . in order to move the tool holding carriage 121 along the guide posts 117 and 119 , a plurality of hydraulic or pneumatic motors 151 are connected to the underside of the base 131 by means of a link mechanism 153 . also , a plurality of fixing means 155 such as hydraulic or pneumatic motors are provided to fix the tool holding carriage 121 at its raised position on the guide posts 117 and 119 . in the above described arrangement , the tool holding carriage 121 is moved along the guide posts 117 and 119 to bring the rollers 143 onto the same levels as the rollers 91 and 97 of the forming press 9 when it is desired to change the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 . in order to receive the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 from the forming press 9 , of course the rollers 143 having no tools are brought by the tool holding carriage 121 onto the same levels as the rollers 91 and 97 of the forming press 9 . then , the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 which have been mounted on the forming press 9 are moved by the hydraulic or pneumatic motors 103 and 105 , respectively , on the rollers 91 and 97 , respectively , onto the rollers 143 of the tool holding carriage 121 . of course , before being moved by the hydraulic or pneumatic motors 103 and 105 , the upper forming tool 11 is unloaded from the ram 77 of the forming press 9 onto the rollers 91 , and the lower forming tool 13 is raised by the rollers 97 from the bolster 89 . after receiving the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 from the forming press 9 , the tool holding carriage 121 is again moved along the guide posts 117 and 119 to send another pair of the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 onto the rollers 91 and 97 of the forming press 9 . then , the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 are pulled by the hydraulic or pneumatic motors 103 and 105 , respectively , onto the rollers 91 and 97 , respectively , of the forming press 9 from the tool holding carriage 121 to be mounted onto the ram 77 and the bolster 89 . as has been described above , the multiple processing machine 1 according to the present invention , can perform a variety of punching and forming operations with high efficiency . the punching press 3 can punch a variety of holes on the work - sheet w , and the forming press 9 can perform a variety of forming operations such as bending , shearing and drawing by use of various types of the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 . also , the punching press 3 and the forming press 9 are connected with each other as a single compact construction so that the work - sheet w can be fed and positioned thereinto by the single common work - sheet feeding apparatus 25 . accordingly , not only is any additional transferring apparatus eliminated thereby minimizing the necessary floor space , but also the work - sheet w can be quickly fed and positioned into the forming press 11 with high efficiency and accuracy after having been punched by the punching press 3 . furthermore , various types of the upper and lower forming tools 11 and 13 can be easily mounted onto the forming press 3 by the tool changing apparatus 27 to perform a variety of forming operations . although a preferred form of the present invention has been illustrated and described , it should be understood that the device is capable of modification by one skilled in the art without departing from the principles of the invention . accordingly , the scope of the invention is to be limited only by the appended hereto . | US-61047884-A |
an apparatus and method for custom blending and fabricating lipstick to the specific demands of individual customers . the present invention provides a kit which enables a user to blend various pigments to arrive at a very specific shade , and then blend the desired shade with a specific base to result in a desired consistency of lipstick , and which also allows the blended bases and pigments to be heated to a liquefied form and poured into a mold for hardening . upon cooling and hardening , a conventional lipstick case can be attached to the lipstick for removal from the mold and use by the customer . the present invention therefore not only allows a user to quickly attain the specific shade and consistency of lipstick desired , but also eliminates the time consuming and unsatisfactory process of visiting multiple stores having expansive inventories of variously shaded and textured lipsticks . | referring now to the drawings , and with specific reference to a fig1 the preferred embodiment is shown and is generally designated as kit 20 . as shown therein , kit 20 includes graduated measuring sheet 22 , pigments 24 , bases 26 , additives 28 , frostings 29 , blending sheets 30 , mixing tool 32 , heating vessel 34 , mold 36 and lipstick cases 38 . it is to be understood that the actual number of pigments 24 , bases 26 , additives 28 , frostings 29 , blending sheets 30 , and lipstick cases 38 provided with each kit 20 can certainly vary , but that the stated elements are all included in the preferred embodiment of the present invention . it is also to be understood that in alternative embodiments , additional additives can be included with kit 20 to further enhance the variability of the lipstick . as indicated in the drawings , the kit 20 is typically packaged together in a sellable package which may be used in either a retail store or a home . the size and variety of the containers of pigments and bases can be adapted to meet the particular consumer needs . with specific reference now to measuring sheet 22 , fig2 shows that measuring sheet 22 is a planar sheet which in the preferred embodiment is preferably manufactured from acrylic , but which could alternatively be made of a relatively heavy grade of paper or possibly a light grade of cardboard . in alternative embodiments , different means for measuring can be provided which need not take the specific form of that shown in fig2 . however , as shown in fig2 measuring sheet 22 also includes a plurality of graduated segments 40 into which pigments 24 can be poured . in the preferred embodiment , one graduated segment 40 having a nominal denotation of 1 . 5 is provided in a central position with sets of graduated segments ranging from nominal denotations of 0 . 125 to 1 . 0 shown radiating out from central segment 42 . in alternative embodiments , segments 40 need not be provided in the specific dimensions shown in fig2 but rather can be provided in any size providing a means by which the components can be consistently measured into pre - determined quantities of pigments 24 . other appropriate measuring means may include scoops , spoons , scales , droppers , measuring cups , metering devices , and other similar measuring devices . in order to reduce the overall cost of kit 20 , only one measuring sheet 22 is provided with each kit , but through the novel use of translucent blending sheets 30 , measuring sheet 22 can be used in repetition . in other words , blending sheet 30 can be placed over a measuring sheet 22 such that graduated segments 40 are visible through translucent blending sheet 30 . while blending sheet 30 is depicted in the drawings as being smaller than measuring sheet 22 , such depiction is only for the purposes of clearer illustration , in that blending sheet 30 is actually the same size as measuring sheet 22 in the preferred embodiment . the retailer can pour pigments 24 directly onto translucent blending sheet 30 using the graduated segments 40 of measuring sheet 22 as a guide . the measured quantity of pigment 24 can then be moved to a separate and distinct area of blending sheet 30 for subsequent combination with additional pigments 24 . for example , one pigment 24 having a particular red hue can be measured using one of the graduated segments 40 and if it is desired to create a resulting lipstick 44 having a relatively orange appearance , a pigment having a yellow hue can be measured and added . this process can be repeated using the various shades of pigments 24 provided with kit 20 until the specific shade desired by the customer is achieved . while the list of particular pigments 24 provided with each kit 20 can vary greatly with each kit 20 sold , in the preferred embodiment twenty distinct pigments are provided , each in its own respective container as indicated in the drawings . the exact chemical compound used to create each pigment 24 is not of importance to the present invention , but rather the shades , or family of shades , is of importance to the present invention . toward that end , four distinct family of shades are provided , namely : cool shades , i . e ., blackberry , wineberry , ruby red , and magenta ; warm shades , i . e ., coral , crimson , paprika , flame , tangerine , peach , and russet ; brown shades , i . e ., brown , mahogany , and cocoa ; and toner shades , i . e ., white , black , ochre , marigold , sapphire , and blueberry . it is to be understood that through the provision of such a wide variety of pigments 24 a resulting family of lipstick shades numbering in the thousands can be achieved . in addition to pigments 24 , a variety of bases 26 are also provided , each base 26 being contained in its own individual container as illustrated in the drawings . in the preferred embodiment , the bases include a cream base used to create a relatively moist , sheer , or frosted lipstick , a matte base used to create a long lasting lipstick , and a butter base , used to create an extremely sheer and glossy lipstick . again , the exact chemical composition of the bases 26 are not of particular relevance to the present invention , but rather it is to be understood that bases 26 are used primarily to create the texture and consistency of the resulting lipstick 44 , whereas pigments 24 are used to create the specific color of lipstick 44 . while bases 26 of the preferred embodiment are not shaded , alternative embodiments could include a larger number of bases already pre - colored to a particular hue . the pre - colored bases could then provide a starting point to which colored pigments could be added . with regard to additives 28 and frostings 29 , the preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a variety of additives which can be added to the blended pigments 24 and bases 26 to alter the characteristics of lipstick 44 . for example , a moisture additive including known moisturizers such as oils and vitamins can be provided , a sunscreen additive having a specific sun protection factor ( spf ) can be added , or a frost additive used to create a specific texture or reflective appearance can also be added . a frost additive is considered to be a pigment as understood by those skilled in the art and is often in powdered form and measured by scoops . for lip coloring products such as lip gloss , frosts may be the only type of pigment in the kit . moreover , if it is desired to have a particular fragrance or flavor in accompaniment to the specific shade of lipstick 44 , various scents or flavors can be added as well . such additives 28 and frostings 29 , would be added to pigments 24 and bases 26 in the same manner as mentioned above or according to the preferred method herein described . any variety of tools can be used to dispense the additives including scoops , brushes , and droppers . upon arriving at the particular shade , of the desired lipstick 44 , the resulting blend 46 , in the preferred method , can be deposited into heating vessel 34 already containing base 26 for subsequent heating and liquefaction . bases 26 are preferably provided in heating vessel 34 in sufficient quantity to form two ( 2 ) lipsticks , however , it is to be understood that different quantities can be provided . it is also to be understood that bases 26 can be mixed with blend 46 on blending sheet 30 if desired and then deposited into heating vessel 34 for liquefaction . to perform this function , mixing tool 32 or an alternative tool can be used to scrape blend 46 from the blending sheet 30 and into heating vessel 34 . blending sheet 30 can then be removed and thrown away to leave measuring sheet 22 ready for subsequent uses . in normal operation , the specific quantities of pigments 24 , bases 26 , additives 28 and frostings 29 would be recorded using a recordation sheet to memorialize the specific composition of blend 46 . in order to transform blend 46 into the shape of a conventional lipstick 44 , heating vessel 34 is heated to a temperature sufficient to liquefy blend 46 and base 26 . in the preferred embodiment , this is performed through the use of a conventional microwave oven preferably having a maximum power output of 600 - 650 watts . under normal circumstances using such an oven a heating time of approximately sixty seconds will be sufficient to adequately liquefy the composition . other suitable heating means that can also be used with the kit of the present invention include a heating block , a steam bath , a water bath , a conventional oven , a flame , a hot air blower , any number of electrical heating devices ( such as a hot light ), or other such heating mechanisms known in the art . in any event , it is understood that the heating means is typically not sold with the kit but is a device that the buyer of the kit typically already has at their home or store . after blend 46 and base 26 have been heated to the point of liquefaction , the liquefied blend can be poured from heating vessel 34 into mold 36 . alternatively , additional pigments , additives , or frostings can be added after heating to further fine tune the lipstick . more specifically , the liquefied blend 46 can be poured from heating vessel 34 into one of the cavities 52 provided in mold 36 . in the preferred embodiment , four cavities 52 are provided , but it is to be understood that in alternative embodiments , the exact number of cavities 52 can vary greatly . as shown in fig3 and 4 , the preferred embodiment of mold 36 is of a clam shell design having first and second mating sides 54 and 56 . sides 54 and 56 are joined by hinge 58 to allow for removal of lipsticks 44 . it can also be seen that each side 54 and 56 is comprised of a top portion 60 and bottom portion 62 , the importance and function of which will be described in further detail herein . although only the preferred form of mold 36 is depicted , it is to be understood that a wide range of mold types can be employed including metal molds , plastic molds , single cavity molds , multiple cavity molds , and the like . such molds need not be in the shape of a conventional lipstick , but can be of the shape of a lip balm jar , tub or the like . products stored in a lip balm jar which are equivalent to lipstick include lip gloss which is somewhat softer that lipstick in composition and can be applied with a tool or alternatively with a finger . lipstick , lip gloss and the like can generally be characterized as lip coloring products . with regard to each bottom portion 62 of first and second sides 54 and 56 , it can be seen that when brought together in mating orientation , they form cavities 52 having the shape of a conventional lipstick with canted tip 64 ( see fig5 ). it can also be seen that the diameter of cavities 52 , as well as the depth of cavities 52 will result in a lipstick 44 having a conventional shape and size . in order to correctly and consistently align first and second side 54 and 56 as well as top and bottom portions 60 and 62 , dowels 66 are provided to penetrate through adjacent portions to thereby align adjacent portions and result in uniformly shaped cavities 52 . in order to further lock first and second sides 54 and 56 into mating configuration , locking clasps are used to join first side 54 to second side 56 when desired . as best shown in fig4 each locking clasp is comprised of threaded rod 70 which is adapted to pivot about pin 72 attached to first side 54 and pass through channel 74 provided in second side 56 . threaded knob 76 can then be used to attach to rod 70 and be tightened against the outer surface of second side 56 to lock first side 54 and second side 56 . similar locking clasps are provided for top portion 60 and bottom portion 62 . when it is desired to pour heated blend 46 from vessel 34 into mold 36 , first and second sides 54 and 56 will be joined together as will top portions 60 and bottom portions 62 as best shown in fig3 . heated blend 46 will be poured into cavities 52 until full and allowed to cool . in the preferred embodiment , approximately three minutes will be required to allow the heated blend 46 to cool to a hardened state at which time top portion 60 of first side 54 can be loosened from top portion 60 of second side 56 . top portion 60 can then be entirely removed from mold 36 to reveal bottoms 80 of lipsticks 44 as best shown in fig6 . at this point , lipstick cases 38 , which are of a conventional design , can be pressed down onto bottoms 80 and , given the consistency and texture of lipstick 44 , adhered thereto . to facilitate this action , it is desirable that lipstick case 38 be rotated to its uppermost extended position to allow for its base to easily contact bottom 80 of lipstick 44 . alternatively , the hardened lipstick 44 can be re - melted and additional pigments or additives can be added before affixing the lipstick cases 38 . as shown in fig6 upon lipstick case 38 being adhered to lipstick 44 , the individual lipsticks 44 can be removed from cavities 52 of bottom portion 62 . case 38 can then be rotated to retract lipstick 44 into case 38 to allow for a cap to be attached thereto . in the preferred embodiment , a non - stick coating is provided on each cavity 52 to facilitate removal of lipsticks 44 from mold 36 . in the most preferred embodiment , a non - stick coating similar to teflon ® is used , but other non - stick compounds having similar characteristics can be used with equal efficacy . from the foregoing , it can therefore be seen that the present invention brings to the art a new and improved apparatus and method by which lipstick can be custom blended , at a retail counter , or at home for personal use , and fabricated into a conventional lipstick case for use in a matter of minutes . such a kit not only greatly expands the ability of a retail outlet to tailor its supply to the specific demands of the individual customer , but greatly enhances the satisfaction of the individual customer by quickly providing the exact shade and consistency of lipstick desired without the time consuming and often futile process of visiting multiple retailers and searching through expansive volumes of lipstick inventory . moreover , once a particular lipstick is created , its recipe can be recorded for subsequent batch creation to thereby avoid reliance on a particular manufacturer which subsequently discontinues a desired type of lipstick . it will also be appreciated that in another embodiment , one or each of the containers used for the bases may double as a heating vessel for use in heating the lip coloring product to a liquefied form . the mold itself could also be utilized as a heating vessel if so desired . regular household items could also be selected for use as a heating vessel . | US-36312999-A |
the invention provides an adhesive for electronic parts , which satisfies both points of heat resistance and the ability to form an adhesive layer , and of low - temperature adhesive property , and an adhesive tape for electronic parts making use of such an adhesive . the adhesive comprises , as a resin component , two polyimide resins different in glass transition temperature by at least 20 ° c . from each other , and an epoxy resin . at least one of the two polyimide resins is a reactive polyimide having structural units represented by the following formula structural units represented by the following formula and structural units represented by the following formula , the other is a polyimide having structural units represented by the formula and structural units represented by the formula , and the reactive polyimide and the epoxy resin are contained in ranges of at least 25 parts by weight and 10 to 100 parts by weight , respectively , per 100 parts by weight of the whole polyimide resin , wherein w means a single bond , an alkylene group , — o —, — so 2 — or — co —, ar 1 denotes a divalent aromatic group such as a diphenylmethane group , and ar 2 represents a divalent aromatic group having oh group or cooh groups . | the polyimide resins used in the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention will be first described . at least one of the two polyimide resins is a reactive polyimide having a functional group ( hereinafter referred to as the “ epoxy - reacting group ”) which reacts with an epoxy group and can be obtained by polycondensing a tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride represented by the following formula ( iv ) with a siloxane compound represented by the following formula ( v ), a diamine compound represented by the following formula ( vi ) and a diamine compound having an epoxy - reacting group represented by the following formula ( vii ) in an organic solvent , and imidating the resultant polyamic acid by ring closure . the other one can be obtained by polycondensing a tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride represented by the following formula ( iv ) with a siloxane compound represented by the following formula ( v ) and a diamine compound represented by the following formula ( vi ) in an organic solvent in the same manner as described above , and imidating the resultant polyamic acid by ring closure . h 2 n — ar 1 — nh 2 ( vi ) wherein w , ar 1 , ar 2 , r 1 to r 6 and n have the same meanings as defined above . examples of the tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride represented by the formula ( iv ) include 2 , 3 , 3 ′, 4 ′- biphenyltetracarboxylic acid dianhydride , 3 , 4 , 3 ′, 4 ′- biphenyltetracarboxylic acid dianhydride , 2 , 3 , 2 ′, 3 ′- biphenyltetracarboxylic acid dianhydride , bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) methane dianhydride , bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) ether dianhydride , bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) sulfone dianhydride , 2 , 2 - bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) propane dianhydride , 3 , 4 , 3 ′, 4 ′- benzophenone tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride and 4 ′, 4 ′- biphthalic acid dianhydride . examples of the siloxane compound having amino groups at both terminals thereof represented by the formula ( v ) include 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 - aminoptopyl )- 1 , 1 , 3 , 3 - tetramethyldisiloxane , α , ω - bis ( 3 - aminopropyl ) polydimethylsiloxanes ( for example , tetramer to octamer of aminopropyl - terminated dimethylsiloxane , etc . ), 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 - aminophenoxymethyl )- 1 , 1 , 3 , 3 - tetramethyldisiloxane , α , ω - bis ( 3 - aminophenoxymethyl ) polydimethylsiloxane , 1 , 3 - bis ( 2 -( 3 - aminophenoxy ) ethyl )- 1 , 1 , 3 , 3 - tetramethyldisiloxane , α , ω - bis ( 2 -( 3 - aminophenoxy ) ethyl ) polydimethylsiloxane , 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 -( 3 - aminophenoxy ) propyl )- 1 , 1 , 3 , 3 - tetramethyldisiloxane and α , ω - bis ( 3 -( 3 - aminophenoxy ) propyl ) polydimethylsiloxane . in the above - mentioned siloxane compounds , those having an average polymerization degree of 1 to 32 , preferably 1 to 16 and more preferably 4 to 8 are used in the case of the polysiloxanes . examples of the diamine compound represented by the formula ( vi ) include 3 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 3 , 3 ′- dimethyl - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 3 , 3 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 4 , 4 ′- diaminobenzophenone , 3 , 3 ′- diethyl - 4 , 4 ′- diaminobenzophenone , 3 , 3 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 3 , 3 ′- dimethoxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 2 , 2 ′- bis ( 3 - aminophenyl ) propane , 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl sulfone , 3 , 3 ′- diaminodiphenyl sulfone , benzidine , 3 , 3 ′- dimethylbenzidine , 3 , 3 ′- dimethoxybenzidine , 3 , 3 ′- diamino - biphenyl , 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 - aminophenoxy ) benzene , 2 , 2 - bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 2 , 2 - bis [ 3 - methyl - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 2 , 2 - bis [ 3 - chloro - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 2 , 2 - bis [ 3 , 5 - dimethyl - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 1 , 1 - bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] ethane , 1 , 1 - bis [ 3 - chloro - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] ethane , bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] methane , bis [ 3 - methyl - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] methane , 4 , 4 ′-[ 1 , 4 - phenylenebis ( 1 - methylethylidene )] bisaniline , 4 , 4 ′-[ 1 , 3 - phenylenebis ( 1 - methylethylidene )] bisaniline and 4 , 4 ′-[ 1 , 4 - phenylenebis ( 1 - methylethylidene )] bis ( 2 , 6 - dimethylaniline ). two or more of these diamine compounds may be used in combination . examples of the diamine compound having an epoxy - reacting group represented by the formula ( vii ) include 2 , 5 - dihydroxy - p - phenylenediamine , 3 , 3 ′- dihydroxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 4 , 3 ′- dihydroxy - 3 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 3 , 3 ′- dihydroxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminobenzophenone , 3 , 3 ′- dihydroxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 3 , 3 ′- dihydroxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl sulfone , 4 , 4 ′- dihydroxy - 3 , 3 ′- diaminodiphenyl sulfone , 2 , 2 ′- bis [ 3 - hydroxy - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , bis [ 3 - hydroxy - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] methane , 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 4 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 3 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminobenzophenone , 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl sulfone , 4 , 4 ′- dicarboxy - 3 , 3 ′- diaminodiphenyl sulfone , 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxybenzidine , 2 , 2 ′- bis [ 3 - carboxy - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane and bis [ 3 - carboxy - 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] methane . two or more of these diamine compounds may be used in combination . in order to obtain the polyimide resin according to the present invention , one of the above - mentioned tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride is allowed to react with the siloxane compound having amino groups at both terminals thereof and the diamine compounds at − 20 to 150 ° c ., preferably 0 to 60 ° c . for several tens minutes to several days in the presence of a solvent to form a polyamic acid , and the resultant polyamic acid is further imidated , whereby the polyamide resin can be prepared . examples of the solvent include amide solvents such as n , n - dimethylformamide , n , n - dimethylacetamide , n , n - diethylacetamide , n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone ; sulfur - containing solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide and dimethyl sulfone ; phenolic solvents such as phenol , cresol and xylenol ; and acetone , tetrahydrofuran , pyridine , tetramethylurea , etc . methods for the imidation include a method comprising cyclizing the polyamic acid by dehydration with heat and a method comprising chemically cyclizing the polyamic acid by using a cyclization - dehydration catalyst . when the polyamic acid is cyclized by dehydration with heat , the reaction temperature is 150 to 400 ° c ., preferably 180 to 350 ° c ., and the reaction time is several tens minutes to several days , preferably 2 to 12 hours . examples of the cyclization - dehydration catalyst in the case of the chemical cyclization include anhydrides of acids such as acetic acid , propionic acid , butyric acid and benzoic acid . it is preferable to use pyridine or the like for promoting the ring - closure reaction . the amount of the catalyst used is at least 200 mol %, preferably 300 to 1 , 000 mol % based on the total amount of the diamines . in the reactive polyimide used in the present invention , the structural units represented by the formula ( i ) and the structural units represented by the formulae ( ii ) and ( iii ) are preferably arranged at a molar ratio of 5 / 95 to 50 / 50 . a proportion of the structural units represented by formula ( ii ) to the structural units represented by the formulae ( iii ) is in a range of 0 : 100 to 99 : 1 , preferably 80 : 20 to 95 : 5 , more preferably 50 : 50 to 95 : 5 in terms of a molar ratio . the number average molecular weight of the reactive polyimide is preferably in a range of 5 , 000 to 40 , 000 . in the case of the polyimide having no epoxy - reacting group , the structural units represented by the formula ( i ) and the structural units represented by the formula ( ii ) are preferably arranged at a molar ratio of 5 / 95 to 50 / 50 . the number average molecular weight thereof is preferably in a range of 5 , 000 to 40 , 000 . if the number average molecular weight of each of the above - described polyimides is lower than 5 , 000 , the film - forming property of the resulting adhesive is impaired . on the other hand , any molecular weight higher than 40 , 000 results in an adhesive deteriorated in solubility in solvents and having poor processability . it is hence preferred that the molecular weight be within the above range . incidentally , the number average molecular weight is a value determined by using tetrahydrofuran as an eluent , shodex 80m ( 2 columns , product of showa denko k . k .) as a column and polystyrene as a standard reference substance in accordance with the gpc method . in the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention , at least one of the two polyimide resins must be a reactive polyimide having an epoxy - reacting group . in the present invention , these two polyimide resins must differ in tg by at least 20 ° c . from each other . the difference in tg is preferably 25 to 180 ° c . in this case , the tg of either polyimide resin may be higher . the combined use of at least two polyimide resins different in tg by at least 20 ° c . from each other permits easily adjusting the flexibility that is a feature of the siloxane - modified polyimide resin , so that no adverse influence is exerted on its properties upon melting while making it possible to lower the adhesion temperature . therefore , an adhesive layer can be formed with ease . more specifically , the resultant adhesive begins to soften at a low temperature , undergoes no rapid change of viscosity and has excellent heat resistance . in addition , an effect that flexibility is imparted to a product cured by the epoxy resin is brought about . if the difference in tg between these polyimide resins is smaller than 20 ° c ., the resulting adhesive cannot satisfy the requirements on both heat resistance and the ability to form an adhesive layer , and low - temperature adhesive property . if the difference is greater than 180 ° c . on the other hand , compatibility of the polyimide resins with each other is deteriorated , so that phase separation or the like is caused , resulting in a failure to form an adhesive layer . the tg was measured by means of a reovibron ( model ddv - 01 / 25 fp ) manufactured by orientex co . the measurement was conducted by applying a synthetic wave of 110 hz under conditions of a sample length of 5 cm , a sample width of 0 . 2 cm , a sample thickness of generally about 50 μm , a measuring temperature of 25 to 300 ° c . and a heating rate of 3 ° c ./ min , and the maximum value of tan δ was regarded as tg . the tg of each polyimide resins may be optionally designed by changing the kinds of the above - described raw materials , i . e ., the tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride , diamine compounds and siloxane compound , and the content of the siloxane units . in general , the tg tends to lower as the content of the siloxane units increases . the polyimide resins different in tg from each other are preferably blended in such a proportion that one polyimide resin is contained in a range of 25 to 400 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the other polyimide resin . the reactive polyimide resin having an epoxy - reacting group must be contained in a proportion of at least 25 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the whole polyimide resin , with the inclusion in a range of 25 to 75 parts by weight being preferred . if the content thereof is lower than 25 parts by weight , a problem that the heat resistance of the resulting adhesive is deteriorated arises . in the adhesives according to the present invention , the total content of the polyimide resins must be at least 30 wt . % based on the whole resin component . if the total content of the polyimide resins is lower than 30 wt . %, the flexibility of the resulting adhesive is impaired , and such problems that its adhesive property to organic films and the like is deteriorated arise . as the epoxy resin which is another main component of the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention , any epoxy resin may be used so far as it is publicly known . examples thereof include bisphenol a type epoxy resins , bisphenol f type epoxy resins , phenol novolak type epoxy resins , glycidyl ether type epoxy resins , glycidyl ester type epoxy resins and glycidylamine type epoxy resins . trihydroxy - phenylmethane type epoxy resins are particularly preferred . a blending proportion of the epoxy resin is in a range of 10 to 100 parts by weight , preferably 30 to 70 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the whole polyimide resin . if the blending proportion of the epoxy resin is lower than 10 parts by weight , the heat resistance of the resulting adhesive cannot be improved . if the proportion exceeds 100 parts by weight on the other hand , the flexibility as the resin is lost . the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention may comprise , if desired , a novolak type phenol resin . any known resin may be used as the novolak type phenol resin , and bisphenol a type novolak phenol resins and alkylphenol type novolak phenol resins are preferably used . a preferable amount of the novolak type phenol resin used is in a range of 80 parts by weight or less , preferably 10 to 80 parts by weight , more preferably 20 to 70 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the whole polyimide resin . the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention may preferably comprise further a maleimide resin . preferable examples of usable maleimide resins include bismaleimide resins having 2 maleimide groups . examples of bismaleimides include n , n ′- m - phenylenebismaleimide , n , n ′- toluylenebismaleimide , n , n ′- 4 , 4 ′- biphenylenebismaleimide , n , n ′-( 3 , 3 - dimethylphenylmethane ) bismaleimide , n , n ′- 4 , 4 ′- dimethylphenylpropanebismaleimide , n , n ′- 4 , 4 ′- dimethylphenyl ether bismaleimide and n , n ′- 3 , 3 ′- dimethylphenyl sulfone bismaleimide . a blending proportion of the maleimide resin is in a range of 50 parts by weight or lower , preferably 1 to 50 parts by weight , more preferably 5 to 30 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the whole polyimide resin . the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention may comprise , if desired , a hardener and a hardening accelerator for epoxy resins . examples thereof include imidazoles , tertiary amines , phenols , dicyandiamides , aromatic diamines and organic peroxides . organic and / or inorganic fillers may also be contained . with respect to the organic and / or inorganic fillers , for example , alumina , silicon nitride , boron nitride and the like may be contained for the purpose of imparting insulating property and thermal conductivity to the resulting adhesive , powder of metals such as silver , copper and nickel for the purpose of imparting thermal conductivity to the resulting adhesive , and titanium oxide , calcium carbonate , silica , zinc oxide , magnesium oxide and the like for the purpose of adjusting the dielectric properties , coefficient of thermal expansion , viscoelasticity and tackiness of the resulting adhesive . a preferable content thereof is in a range of 1 to 70 wt . %, preferably 5 to 50 wt . % based on the total solid content of the adhesive . the adhesive tapes for electronic parts according to the present invention have an adhesive layer formed with one of the above - described adhesives on at least one side of a substrate . preferable examples of the substrate include releasable films , heat - resistant insulating films , paper sheets the surfaces of which have been subjected to a releasing treatment , metal foils and metal sheets , with heat - resistant insulating films being particularly preferred . specific examples thereof include films of synthetic resins such as polyethylene , polypropylene , fluorocarbon resins , polyimide and polyethylene terephthalate . those having a thickness ranging from 10 to 300 μm are preferably used . examples of the metal foils and metal sheets include those formed of copper , cupronickel , silver , iron , 42 alloy or stainless steel . those having a thickness ranging from 10 to 1 , 000 μm are preferably used . in the formation of the adhesive layer , may be adopted a method in which one of the above - described adhesives for electronic parts is coated on a surface of the substrate , a method in which the adhesive is injection - molded into a film , and the film is then laminated on the substrate , or the like . in the case where the adhesive layer is formed by coating , it is only necessary to form an adhesive layer by using an adhesive solution obtained by dissolving the resin components in , for example , a polar solvent to apply it by any known method . if desired , the adhesive layer formed may be heated into a semi - cured state of the b - stage . a thickness of the adhesive layer is preferably in a range of 5 to 100 μm , more preferably 10 to 50 μm . in the adhesive tapes for electronic parts according to the present invention , a protective film may be stuck on the surface of the adhesive layer as needed . as the protective film , is used a paper sheet treated with a releasing agent , or a film of a synthetic resin such as polyethylene , polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate . in the case where the substrate is a releasable film or a paper sheet the surface of which has been subjected to a releasing treatment , such a substrate may be peeled off from the adhesive layer upon use , and only the adhesive layer is used as an adhesive tape . the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention have the above - described features . therefore , when such an adhesive is coated on a substrate to form an adhesive layer , the adhesive layer has sufficient flexibility , exhibits uniform low - temperature adhesive property and moreover has sufficient flexibility and excellent heat resistance and dimensional stability to heat history even after the adhesive layer is cured by heating . accordingly , the adhesives for electronic parts according to the present invention are suitable for use as adhesives for laminating materials of which flexibility is required , such as flexible wiring substrates and copper - clad substrates for tab and provide excellent tab tapes in particular . a flask equipped with a stirrer was charged with 10 . 33 g ( 52 mmol ) of 3 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenyl ether , 18 . 23 g ( 48 mmol ) of 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 - aminophenoxymethyl )- 1 , 1 , 3 , 3 - tetramethyldisiloxane , 32 . 22 g ( 100 mmol ) of 3 , 4 , 3 ′, 4 ′- benzophenonetetracarboxylic acid dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone ( nmp ) under ice cooling , and the mixture was stirred for 1 hour . the resultant solution was then allowed to react at room temperature for 3 hours in a nitrogen atmosphere to synthesize a polyamic acid . to a solution of the thus - obtained polyamic acid were added 50 ml of toluene and 1 . 0 g p - toluenesulfonic acid , and the resultant mixture was heated to 160 ° c . while separating water from an azeotrope with toluene , imidation was conducted for 3 hours . toluene was distilled off from the reaction mixture , and the resultant polyimide varnish was poured into methanol . precipitate thus obtained was separated , ground , washed and dried , thereby obtaining 54 . 3 g ( yield : 95 %) of a polyimide . an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . a reactive polyimide ( 62 . 5 g ; yield : 93 %) was obtained in accordance with a process similar to that in synthesis example 1 using 16 . 10 g ( 39 mmol ) of 2 , 2 - bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 1 . 25 g ( 5 mmol ) of 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 21 . 25 g ( 56 mmol ) of 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 - aminophenoxymethyl )- 1 , 1 , 3 , 3 - tetramethyldisiloxane , 32 . 22 g ( 100 mmol ) of 3 , 4 , 3 ′, 4 ′- benzophenonetetracarboxylic acid dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone ( nmp ). an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . a polyimide ( 67 . 4 g ; yield : 92 %) was obtained in accordance with a process similar to that in synthesis example 1 using 33 . 65 g ( 82 mmol ) of 2 , 2 - bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 13 . 84 g ( 18 mmol ) of an octamer of aminopropyl - terminated dimethylsiloxane , 29 . 42 g ( 100 mmol ) of 2 , 3 , 3 ′, 4 ′- biphenyltetracarboxylic acid dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone . an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . a reactive polyimide ( 67 . 8 g ; yield : 94 %) was obtained in accordance with a process similar to that in synthesis example 1 using 30 . 38 g ( 74 mmol ) of 2 , 2 - bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 2 . 35 g ( 8 mmol ) of 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 13 . 84 g ( 18 mmol ) of an octamer of aminopropyl - terminated dimethylsiloxane , 29 . 42 g ( 100 mmol ) of 2 , 3 , 3 ′, 4 ′- biphenyl - tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone . an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . a polyimide ( 78 . 7 g ; yield : 97 %) was obtained in accordance with a process similar to that in synthesis example 1 using 31 . 98 g ( 78 mmol ) of 2 , 2 - bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 16 . 95 g ( 22 mmol ) of an octamer of aminopropyl - terminated dimethylsiloxane , 35 . 83 g ( 100 mmol ) of bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) sulfone dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone . an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . a reactive polyimide ( 75 . 0 g ; yield : 93 %) was obtained in accordance with a process similar to that in synthesis example 1 using 30 . 38 g ( 74 mmol ) of 2 , 2 - bis [ 4 -( 4 - aminophenoxy ) phenyl ] propane , 1 . 12 g ( 4 mmol ) of 3 , 3 ′- dicarboxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 16 . 85 g ( 22 mmol ) of an octamer of aminopropyl - terminated dimethylsiloxane , 35 . 83 g ( 100 mmol ) of bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) sulfone dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone . an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . a polyimide ( 47 . 1 g ; yield : 93 %) was obtained in accordance with a process similar to that in synthesis example 1 using 26 . 13 g ( 89 mmol ) of 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 - aminophenoxy ) benzene , 8 . 14 g ( 11 mmol ) of an octamer of aminopropyl - terminated dimethylsiloxane , 20 . 02 g ( 100 mmol ) of bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) ether dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone . an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . a reactive polyimide ( 45 . 6 g ; yield : 91 %) was obtained in accordance with a process similar to that in synthesis example 1 using 23 . 55 g ( 81 mmol ) of 1 , 3 - bis ( 3 - aminophenoxy ) benzene , 2 . 06 g ( 9 mmol ) of 3 , 3 ′- dihydroxy - 4 , 4 ′- diaminodiphenylmethane , 8 . 05 g ( 10 mmol ) of an octamer of aminopropyl - terminated dimethylsiloxane , 20 . 02 g ( 100 mmol ) of bis ( 3 , 4 - dicarboxyphenyl ) ether dianhydride and 300 ml of n - methyl - 2 - pyrrolidone . an infrared absorption spectrum of this polyimide was determined . as a result , typical absorption attributable to imide was observed at 1718 cm − 1 and 1783 cm − 1 . the molecular weight , glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition - starting temperature thereof were also determined . the results thereof are shown in table 1 . in tetrahydrofuran ( hereinafter referred to as “ thf ”) were dissolved 25 parts by weight of polyimide resin a , 25 parts by weight of reactive polyimide resin a , 20 parts by weight of a trihydroxy - methane type epoxy resin ( epikote 1032 , trade name ; product of yuka shell epoxy k . k . ), 20 parts by weight of p - tert - butyl type phenol resin ( ckm2432 , trade name ; product of showa highpolymer co ., ltd . ), a bismaleimide resin ( bmi - mp , trade name ; product of mitsui chemicals , inc .) and 0 . 1 part by weight of 2 - ethyl - 4 - methylimidazole , thereby preparing an adhesive of 40 wt . % resin solid concentration . an adhesive was prepared in the same manner as in example 1 except that the amounts of polyimide resin a and reactive polyimide resin a were changed from 25 parts by weight and 25 parts by weight to 40 parts by weight and 10 parts by weight , respectively . an adhesive was prepared in the same manner as in example 1 except that polyimide resin a was changed to reactive polyimide resin b . an adhesive was prepared in the same manner as in example 1 except that polyimide resin a and reactive polyimide resin a were changed to polyimide resin b and reactive polyimide resin d , respectively . an adhesive was prepared in the same manner as in example 1 except that reactive polyimide resin a alone was used in an amount of 50 parts by weight as a polyimide resin . an adhesive was prepared in the same manner as in example 1 except that polyimide resin a alone was used in an amount of 50 parts by weight as a polyimide resin . an adhesive was prepared in the same manner as in example 1 except that polyimide resin a and reactive polyimide resin a were changed to polyimide resin c and reactive polyimide resin c , respectively . each of the adhesives prepared in accordance with the respective processes was applied to a polyester film having a thickness of 38 μm and dried at 100 ° c . for 5 minutes to produce a laminate film having an adhesive layer 25 μm thick . a hole of 1 cm × 1 cm was made in the resultant laminate film by perforating , and the film was superimposed on a copper foil ( 3ec - vlp foil , product of mitsui mining & amp ; smelting co ., ltd . ; thickness : 25 μm ) in such a manner that the adhesive layer faces a roughened surface of the copper foil , thereby laminating them by a laminator composed of rubber rolls under conditions of a rate of 1 m / min and a linear pressure of 1 kg / cm . the thus - obtained laminate film was investigated as to the degree of embedding of the adhesive in the roughened surface of the copper foil and runout of the adhesive from the hole . the results thereof are shown in table 2 . the embedding ability was visually judged . with respect to the runout , a degree of runout of the adhesive at the greatest runout part about each side of the hole was determined through an optical reflection microscope of 100 magnifications , and the maximum value among the degrees of runout about 4 sides was regarded as the degree of runout . more specifically , in the above - described procedure , the laminating temperature was raised 5 ° c . by 5 ° c . to determine the embedding ability in the copper foil and the degree of runout of the adhesive at the respective temperatures . since the level of runout allowable for practical use is 100 μm , laminating temperatures at which the embedding was sufficient , and the degree of runout was at most 100 μm were evaluated as a proper range of laminating temperature . the proper range of laminating temperature must extend over 20 ° c . at the minimum in view of the margin of process for practical use . in the cases of comparative examples 1 to 3 , however , the proper range of laminating temperature is narrow as shown in table 2 , so that such adhesives were unable to be put to practical use . when the adhesives are used for tab tapes , an ic chip is often wire - bonded to a circuit pattern formed on a tab tape . therefore , with respect to properties at that time , the resistance to heat and pressure at a high temperature of each adhesive was evaluated as an alternate property . the evaluation method is as follows . the polyester film of each of the above laminate films was removed , and the adhesive alone was heated and cured to prepare a cured adhesive film . this adhesive film was cut into 1 - cm 2 , and a cut piece was hot - pressed at 200 ° c . for 30 seconds under a pressure of 100 kg / cm 2 by a hot press . the area of the cut piece after the hot pressing was measured to determine a rate of change in shape in accordance with the following equation : when the rate of change in shape was 10 % or lower , such an adhesive was ranked as one having excellent resistance to heat and pressure and capable of being subjected to wire bonding . for example , when a capillary is brought into contact under pressure with a circuit pattern upon wire bonding , and an adhesive under the pattern undergoes softening or the like , bonding force is absorbed , resulting in a failure to fully bond wires to the circuit pattern . therefore , it is necessary for the adhesive to have excellent resistance to heat and pressure . as shown in table 2 , the adhesives of examples 1 to 4 each had excellent resistance to heat and pressure , but the adhesive of comparative example 2 had poor resistance to heat and pressure and was of no practical use because no reactive polyimide is used though the tg of the polyimide resin is high . as apparent from the results shown in table 2 , the adhesives of examples 1 to 4 are wide in the proper range of laminating temperature and low in the rate of change in shape , and are hence excellent from the viewpoint of practical use . on the other hand , the adhesive of comparative example 1 is a pinpoint in the proper range of laminating temperature and has no practicability . the adhesive of comparative example 2 is narrow in the proper range of laminating temperature and high in the rate of change in shape , and hence has no practicability . the adhesive of comparative example 3 uses the polyimide resins having the same tg . therefore , it undergoes a rapid change of viscosity , is narrow in the proper range of laminating temperature and has no practicability . | US-64374300-A |
a radio communication method , a radio communication system and a wireless terminal by which low power consumption and the flexibility of a network can be realized . a base station and wireless terminals change an intermittent receive period and the preamble length of data on the basis of characteristics of the multihop radio network to carry out the intermittent receiving of data . thus , a wireless terminal relaying data can receive the data reliably and a useless boot - up of a receiving part and standby time can be largely reduced to achieve low power consumption . | referring now to the drawings , a description of preferred embodiments of the present invention will be given in detail . in a multihop radio network where data are transferred in such a manner as to pass a bucket or packet from one wireless terminal to another , an intermittent receive period of the wireless terminals and the preamble length of data are changed according to a traffic change caused by an increase or a decrease in data amount or a data type change , a network topology change caused by the addition or deletion of a wireless terminal , a time change on a timer or the like , a change in battery remaining power or the occurrence of an event caused by an alarm signal or the like . fig1 is a block diagram showing the structure of a multihop radio network according to an embodiment of the present invention . referring to fig1 , the multihop radio network includes a base station 2 and a plurality of wireless terminals 3 to 7 ( not restricted to 5 terminals ). a network 1 is connected to the base station 2 through a wire or a fixed line as shown by a solid line , and the base station 2 is connected to the wireless terminals 3 to 7 by wireless as shown by broken lines . between two of the wireless terminals 3 to 7 and the base station 2 , data is transferred in such a manner as to pass a bucket or packet from one wireless terminal to another or the base station . for example , when the wireless terminal 5 forwards data to the base station 2 , the wireless terminal 3 necessarily relays the data . in this case , it is assumed that the wireless terminals 3 to 7 are connected to the base station 2 in a tree or mesh structure . in this description , the base station is a wireless terminal which can connect a multihop network and another network or function as a root of a multihop radio network . the wireless terminals 3 to 7 each carry out data communication in their distributed locations and hence sending and receiving of data . the wireless terminals 3 and 4 locate in their interconnecting positions and necessarily relay the data to realize the data communication between the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 5 to 7 . that is , the wireless terminals 5 to 7 locate in end positions of the network and conduct data communication only in their locations , while the wireless terminals 3 and 4 in intermediary positions carry out not only data communication but also data relays in their locations . in this case , although a wide range of areas can be covered by multihops , the wireless terminals 3 and 4 positioned in their interconnecting locations perform data relay operation , and their power consumption increases due to the data relay operation as compared to the other wireless terminals 5 to 7 . besides , it is assumed that the base station 2 uses an external power supply such as an alternating current ( ac ) power source . on the other hand , the wireless terminals 3 to 7 do not use the ac power source but use an internal power supply such as solar batteries , primary batteries , secondary batteries , fuel batteries , and capacitors or condensers ( e . g . electric double layer capacitors ). naturally , the base station 2 may use the internal power supply and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 may use the external power supply . the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 are characterized by performing intermittent receive operation to reduce the power consumption as low as possible . more specifically , the receiving side of the base station or the wireless terminal is activated per a period t ( e . g . 100 milliseconds , 1 second , 10 seconds or the like ), stops its receiving operation when not receiving radio signals and maintains its receiving operation when receiving radio signals until a sending party completes the transmission of radio signals . on the other hand , the sending side of the base station or the wireless terminal sets a preamble length of radio signals to at least the period t so that the other party on the receiving side does not fail to receive the radio signals . the period t is variable between each linked pair of the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 , and a match between an intermittent receive period of the receiving side and the preamble length of data of the sending side is necessarily accomplished before communication . fig2 is a block diagram showing the structure of the respective wireless terminals 3 to 7 . as can be seen in fig2 , each of the wireless terminals 3 to 7 includes an antenna 10 , a switch 11 for selecting one of sending and receiving , a radio transmitter 12 , a modulator 13 , a first data analyzer 14 , a pattern discriminator 15 , a power controller 16 , a radio intermittent receiver 17 , a demodulator 18 , a second data analyzer 19 and a timing generator 20 . in addition , each of the wireless terminals 3 to 7 further includes a memory ( not shown ) for temporarily storing data received to perform relay operation . in each of the wireless terminals 3 to 7 , a sending side terminal includes the radio transmitter 12 , the modulator 13 and the first data analyzer 14 and a receiving side terminal includes the radio intermittent receiver 17 , the demodulator 18 , the second data analyzer 19 , the timing generator 20 and the memory . in the wireless terminals 3 to 7 , when data is received , the switch 11 is connected to a receiving terminal ( the lower terminal in fig2 ) and radio signals received from the antenna 10 are sent to the radio intermittent receiver 17 via the switch 11 . the radio intermittent receiver 17 is activated per the period t by an activation signal periodically fed from the timing generator 20 to detect the receiving of radio signals , and stops its receiving operation when not receiving the radio signals . when receiving the radio signals , the radio intermittent receiver 17 sends the received signals to the pattern discriminator 15 . the pattern discriminator 15 compares voltages ( signal values ) of the received signals with predetermined expected values to determine whether or not the received signals are effective . for instance , the pattern discriminator 15 necessarily compares a preamble for synchronization per one bit unit and a synchronizing code for frame synchronization with respective expected values . when having determined that the radio signals received are effective , the pattern discriminator 15 sends a power - on instruction to the power controller 16 . the pattern discriminator 15 also sends a power - off instruction to the power controller 16 when the receiving of the radio signals from the sending party is completed . the power controller 16 carries out a power - on or a power - off of the radio transmitter 12 , the modulator 13 and the demodulator 18 by an instruction sent from the pattern discriminator 15 or the first data analyzer 14 . when receiving the effective radio signal , the power controller 16 turns on the power of the demodulator 18 . when receiving the radio signal from the radio intermittent receiver 17 , the demodulator 18 demodulates the radio signal to send a frame to the second data analyzer 19 . the second data analyzer 19 determines whether or not the received frame is forwarded to the wireless terminal itself , for example , the wireless terminal 3 . when the received frame is not directed to the wireless terminal 3 but to the base station 2 or another wireless terminal ( in this case , the wireless terminal 5 or 6 ), the second data analyzer 19 sends the received frame to the first data analyzer 14 to transfer the received frame to the base station 2 or the wireless terminal 5 or 6 . when the received frame is forwarded to the wireless terminal 3 , the second data analyzer 19 analyzes the data contained in the frame . when the analyzed data is user data , the second data analyzer 19 sends the frame to a subsequent stage . when the analyzed data is control data , the second data analyzer 19 conducts the following processing according to its contents . examples of the control data include intermittent receive period change instruction data for instructing a change of an intermittent receive period between respective linked pairs of the wireless terminal ( in this case , the wireless terminal 3 ), preamble length change instruction data for instructing a change of a preamble length of a sending frame , wireless terminal addition or deletion information data for informing the addition or deletion of a wireless terminal ( in this case , the wireless terminal 5 or 6 ), battery remaining power information data for informing a battery remaining power , and alarm information data for informing an alarm signal detected in the wireless terminal ( in this case , the wireless terminal 5 or 6 ). when the control data forwarded to the wireless terminal 3 is the intermittent receive period change instruction data , the second data analyzer 19 sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the timing generator 20 . when the control data directed to the wireless terminal 3 is the preamble length change instruction data , the second data analyzer 19 sends a preamble length change signal to the first data analyzer 14 . similarly , in the case of the wireless terminal addition information data , the wireless terminal deletion information data and the battery remaining power information data , the second data analyzer 19 recalculates a proper period t between each linked pair of the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 or in the entire network to send , for instance , an intermittent receive period change signal to the timing generator 20 or a preamble length change signal to the first data analyzer 14 . further , the second data analyzer 19 checks destinations and sending sources of all frames received and data types such as user data and control data , and counts the frequency or number of times of respective data . the second data analyzer 19 recalculates a period t based on the obtained frequency or number of times of certain data . in the case of changing of its own period t , the second data analyzer 19 sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the timing generator 20 and a preamble length change signal to the first data analyzer 14 . furthermore , when instructing the base station 2 and the other wireless terminals 3 to 7 to change a period t , the second data analyzer 19 sends an intermittent receive period change instruction or a preamble length change instruction to the first data analyzer 14 . the first data analyzer 14 receives user data received in its location , an alarm signal detected in its location , a timer signal indicating a certain time and battery remaining power signals for informing remaining power of batteries mounted on the other wireless terminals 4 to 7 , and also receives the frames except one forwarded to itself , the preamble length change signal for changing a preamble length for use in sending , the preamble length change signal for instructing the base station 2 and the other wireless terminals 4 to 7 to change the length of preamble and the intermittent receive period change signal for instructing the base station 2 and the other wireless terminals 4 to 7 to change an intermittent receive period from the second data analyzer 19 . the first data analyzer 14 sends the frames and the signals received from the second data analyzer 19 in addition to the user data received in its location , the alarm signal detected in its location , the battery remaining power signals , the preamble length change instruction , the intermittent receive period change instruction and the destination information to the modulator 13 . the first data analyzer 14 instructs the power controller 16 to turn off the power when the frame sending is finished . when receiving frames except one directed to itself , the first data analyzer 14 operates in the same manner as described above and sends the frames untouched to the modulator 13 without changing the destination information . when receiving a timer signal , the first data analyzer 14 sends the intermittent receive period change signal to the timing generator 20 to change the period t scheduled with respect to each time , and changes the preamble length of the frame to be transmitted thereafter . in this case , it is assumed that the period t is previously determined with respect to each time between each linked two of the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 . when receiving the preamble length change signal , the first data analyzer 14 changes the preamble length of the frame to be transmitted thereafter . the first data analyzer 14 checks various signals including the alarm signal detected in its location and the battery remaining power to monitor their frequencies . the first data analyzer 14 recalculates the period t using the frequencies . when changing its own period t , the first data analyzer 14 sends the intermittent receive period change signal to the timing generator 20 and changes the preamble length of the frame to be transmitted thereafter . the user data and the control data described above are not necessarily sent and received by an independent frame . the user data and the control data can be defined by the same frame . the modulator 13 modulates the frames received from the first data analyzer 14 after power - on , and sends the radio signals to the radio transmitter 12 . in sending data , the switch 11 is connected to a sending terminal ( a right upper terminal in fig2 ) and the radio signals sent from the radio transmitter 12 are transmitted from the antenna 10 via the switch 11 . the timing generator 20 changes the period t on the basis of the intermittent receive period change signal received from the first or second data analyzer 14 or 19 , and informs the radio intermittent receiver 17 of the timing of intermittent receive operation . fig3 is a block diagram showing the structure of the base station 2 . the base station 2 has the basically same structure as described previously for the wireless terminals 3 to 7 except that the base station 2 has no relay function for user data . in other words , in the base station 2 , a second data analyzer 19 never sends the user data to a first data analyzer 14 . besides , since the base station 2 can readily grasp the states of all the wireless terminals 3 to 7 , the base station 2 calculates a period t between each linked pair considering their states and can optimize the entire network . fig4 a is a diagram showing the data sending timing , and fig4 b is a diagram showing the data receiving timing . in fig4 a , the output of a radio transmitter is taken in the vertical direction and in fig4 b , the input of a radio intermittent receiver is taken in the vertical direction . in fig4 a and 4b , time is taken in the horizontal direction . in fig4 a , a preamble length on a sending side is changed from t 1 + x 1 to t 2 + x 2 and in fig4 b , an intermittent receive period on a receiving side is changed from t 1 to t 2 at some midpoint . in this case , x 1 and x 2 are margins for the receiving side to receive data absolutely and are necessarily set to values enough to absorb the jitters of respective clocks of the respective base station 2 and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 . each frame includes data containing a preamble for synchronizing one bit unit , a synchronizing code for frame synchronization , user data , control data , destination information , sending source information and the like . in the following , the operation of the radio communication system according to the first embodiment will be described . in this embodiment , a period t is changed according to a change in the volume of traffic due to an increase and a decrease in data amount , a data type change , or the like . in order that the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 send and receive frames , it is necessary to correspond an intermittent receive period on a receiving side to a preamble length on a sending side between each linked two of the terminals . now , look at the wireless terminals 3 , 5 and 6 , the wireless terminal 3 sends and receives data in its location and sends and receives radio signals to / from the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 . the wireless terminals 5 and 6 also send and receive data in their locations and send and receive radio signals to / from the wireless terminal 3 . the case of sending radio signals from the wireless terminal 5 to the wireless terminal 3 will be described hereinafter in all the embodiments of the present invention . in this case , although it is necessary that an intermittent receive period is changed in the wireless terminal 3 and a preamble length of a sending frame is changed to at least the intermittent receive period in the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 ( when the preamble length in the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 is longer than the intermittent receive period of the wireless terminal 3 , if the three preamble lengths are different from one another , there is no problem in communications ), only the case where the intermittent receive period is changed in the wireless terminal 3 and the preamble length of the sending frame is changed in the wireless terminal 5 will be described hereinafter . the transmission of radio signals from the wireless terminal 3 to the wireless terminal 5 and communications between two of the base station 2 and the other wireless terminals will be readily understood in the same manner as described below . fig5 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a traffic change using the base station . the base station 2 checks destinations and sending sources of all frames received and data types such as user data and control data , and measures the frequency or number of times of respective data with respect to a combination of the destination and the sending source . when a frequency or number of times of certain data exceeds a certain threshold value , the base station 2 recalculates a period t , and sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the wireless terminal 3 and a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the specified period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . in the case where the wireless terminal 3 receives data from a plurality of wireless terminals and the wireless terminals request different intermittent signal receive periods , the wireless terminal 3 stores the different intermittent signal receive periods required by the wireless terminals to set the minimum value of the different intermittent signal receive periods as the intermittent signal receive period . further , when the wireless terminals 5 and 6 send data to a plurality of wireless terminals and the wireless terminals request different preamble lengths , the following two methods can be used . first , the different preamble lengths for the wireless terminals are stored and the maximum value of the different preamble lengths is employed as the preamble length . second , the preamble length is changed with respect to each wireless terminal at a destination . in this case , since a direction in which the wireless terminal 5 sends the radio signals to the wireless terminal 3 is considered , the base station 2 can learn the volume of traffic in a multihop radio sensor network by checking all frames received from the multihop radio sensor network . on the other hand , as to the other direction in which the wireless terminal 3 sends the radio signals to the wireless terminal 5 , the base station 2 can learn the volume of traffic in the multihop radio sensor network by checking all frames received from the network 1 . fig6 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a traffic change in a receiving side - led manner . the wireless terminal 3 checks destinations and sending sources of all frames received from the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 and data types such as user data and control data , and measures the frequency or number of times of respective data with respect to a combination of the destination and the sending source . when the frequency or number of times of certain data exceeds a certain threshold value , the wireless terminal 3 recalculates a period t to change its own intermittent receive period , and sends a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the calculated period t and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . fig7 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a traffic change in a sending side - led manner . the wireless terminal 5 checks user data received in its location , and various signals such as an alarm signal detected in its location and battery remaining power signals , destinations and sending sources of all frames received from downstream wireless terminals ( not shown ), and data types such as user data and control data . then , the wireless terminal 5 measures the frequency or number of times of respective data with respect to a combination of the destination and the sending source . when the frequency or number of times of certain data exceeds a certain threshold value , the wireless terminal 5 recalculates a period t to change its own preamble length , and sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the wireless terminal 3 . the wireless terminal 3 sends a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminal 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the calculated period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . in this embodiment , examples of the calculation to obtain the period t according to the traffic change include the following . when the base station 2 or the wireless terminal 3 or 4 once detects various signals such as an alarm signal in its location or once receives a frame bearing an alarm signal detected in the wireless terminals 5 to 7 , in order to minimize delay time between sending sources and destinations by raising sensitivity of receiving operation , the period t is shortened so that the alarm signal may be communicated to the base station 2 or the wireless terminal 3 or 4 as soon as possible . when user data to be sent from the wireless terminals 5 to 7 to the base station 2 or the wireless terminal 3 or 4 is increased , the period t can be shortened so that the user data may be received by the base station 2 or the wireless terminal 3 or 4 as much as possible without being discarded on its way . further , when user data to be sent from the wireless terminals 5 to 7 to the base station 2 or the wireless terminal 3 or 4 is reduced , in order to reduce power consumption as low as possible by reducing the frequency of the intermittent receiving of data in the base station 2 , the period t can be extended . in the following , the operation of the radio communication system according to the second embodiment will be described . in this embodiment , a period t is changed when the expected volume of traffic changes due to a change in network topology caused by the addition or deletion of a wireless terminal to / from the network . fig8 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to the addition of a wireless terminal to the network using the base station . when a new wireless terminal 5 is added to the multihop radio network , the wireless terminal 5 sends a wireless terminal addition information signal to the base station 2 . when receiving the wireless terminal addition information signal , the base station 2 recalculates a period t , and sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the wireless terminal 3 and a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the specified period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . fig9 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to the addition of a wireless terminal to the network without using the base station . in this case , since the wireless terminal 5 sends radio signals to the wireless terminal 3 , a period t is changed in a receiving side - led manner . on the other hand , when the wireless terminal 3 sends the radio signals to the wireless terminal 5 , the period t is changed in a sending side - led manner . when a new wireless terminal 5 is added to the multihop radio network , the wireless terminal 5 sends a wireless terminal addition information signal to the wireless terminal 3 . when receiving the wireless terminal addition information signal , the upstream wireless terminal 3 recalculates a period t to change its own intermittent receive period , and sends a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the calculated period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to the deletion of a wireless terminal from the network using the base station . when the wireless terminal 5 is deleted from the multihop radio network , the wireless terminal 5 sends a wireless terminal deletion information signal to the base station 2 . when receiving the wireless terminal deletion information signal , the base station 2 recalculates a period t , and sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the wireless terminal 3 and a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminal 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the specified period t and the wireless terminal 6 changes a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to the deletion of a wireless terminal from the network without using the base station . in this case , since the wireless terminal 5 sends radio signals to the wireless terminal 3 , a period t is changed in a receiving side - led manner . on the other hand , when the wireless terminal 3 sends the radio signals to the wireless terminal 5 , the period t is changed in a sending side - led manner . when the wireless terminal 5 is deleted from the multihop radio network , the wireless terminal 5 sends a wireless terminal deletion information signal to the wireless terminal 3 . when receiving the wireless terminal deletion information signal , the upstream wireless terminal 3 recalculates a period t to change its own intermittent receive period , and sends a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminal 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the calculated period t and the wireless terminal 6 changes a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . in this embodiment , examples of the calculation to obtain the period t according to the network topology change include the following . when a new wireless terminal 5 is added to the multihop radio network , the number of the wireless terminals connected to the wireless terminal 3 increases . therefore , assuming that the traffic from the wireless terminal 3 to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 increases , the period t is shortened . besides , when the wireless terminal 5 is deleted from the multihop radio network , the number of the wireless terminals connected to the wireless terminal 3 is reduced . thereby , assuming that the traffic from the wireless terminal 3 to the wireless terminal 6 is reduced , the period t is extended . in the following , the operation of the radio communication system according to the third embodiment will be described . in this embodiment , a period t is changed according to a time change using a timer or the like . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a time change using the base station . it is assumed that the base station 2 includes a built - in timer or obtains a timer signal from outside , and a value of a period t is scheduled with respect to each time . at a certain time , the base station 2 sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the wireless terminal 3 and a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 on the basis of information on the scheduled period t . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the specified period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a time change in a receiving side - led manner . it is assumed that the wireless terminal 3 includes a built - in timer or obtains a timer signal from outside , and a value of a period t is scheduled with respect to each time . at a certain time , the wireless terminal 3 changes its own intermittent receive period and sends a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 on the basis of information on the scheduled period t . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the scheduled period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the scheduled period t . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a time change in a sending side - led manner . it is assumed that the wireless terminal 5 includes a built - in timer or obtains a timer signal from outside , and a value of a period t is scheduled with respect to each time . at a certain time , the wireless terminal 5 changes its own preamble length and sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the wireless terminal 3 on the basis of information on the scheduled period t . the wireless terminal 3 sends a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminal 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the calculated period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a time change in a wireless terminal self - control manner . it is assumed that the wireless terminals 3 , 5 and 6 include a built - in timer , respectively , or obtain a timer signal from outside , respectively , and values of periods t are scheduled with respect to each time , respectively , in the same manner . at a certain time , the wireless terminal 3 changes its own intermittent receive period and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change their own preamble lengths in a self - control manner on the basis of information on the scheduled periods t , respectively . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the scheduled period t . in this embodiment , examples of the calculation to obtain the period t according to the time change include the following . during a time period in which a data flow amount is expected to be large , the period t is shortened , while during a time period in which a data flow amount is expected to be small , the period t is extended . hence , when a communication frequency is low , a frequency of the intermittent receiving of data is decreased to reduce power consumption of the base station 2 and the wireless terminals 3 to 7 as low as possible . in the following , the operation of the radio communication system according to the fourth embodiment will be described . in this embodiment , a period t is changed according to a power consumption change due to a battery remaining power or the like . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a power consumption change using the base station . when receiving a battery remaining power information signal from the wireless terminals 3 , 5 and 6 , in the case that a battery remaining power or a battery consumption rate exceeds a certain threshold value , the base station 2 recalculates a period t , and sends an intermittent receive period change signal to the wireless terminal 3 and a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the specified period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . fig1 is a chart showing a procedure for changing a period t according to a power consumption change without using the base station . in this case , since a direction in which the wireless terminal 5 sends radio signals to the wireless terminal 3 is considered , a period t is changed in a receiving side - led manner . on the other hand , as to the other direction in which the wireless terminal 3 sends the radio signals to the wireless terminal 5 , the period t is changed in a sending side - led manner . when receiving a battery remaining power information signal from the wireless terminals 5 and 6 , in the case that a battery remaining power or a battery consumption rate exceeds a certain threshold value , the upstream wireless terminal 3 recalculates a period t to change its own intermittent receive period , and sends a preamble length change signal to the wireless terminals 5 and 6 . as a result , the wireless terminal 3 carries out the intermittent receiving operation based on the calculated period t , and the wireless terminals 5 and 6 change a preamble length on the basis of the specified period t . in this embodiment , examples of the calculation to obtain the period t according to the power consumption change include the following . when battery remaining power of the wireless terminals 3 to 7 are small or battery consumption rates of them are extremely high , in the case that the battery remaining power of the wireless terminals 3 to 7 in downstream locations of the wireless terminal concerned are small or the battery consumption rates of them in the downstream locations of the wireless terminal concerned are extremely high , a preamble length is extended to avoid the battery power consumption as much as possible . as set forth hereinabove , in accordance with the present invention , a radio communication method , a radio communication system , a base station and a wireless terminal in a multihop radio network for realizing low power consumption and high network flexibility can be provided . moreover , data transmission and reception can be carried out in both the directions at the same time . incidentally , in the aforementioned first to fourth embodiments , although data flow from the base station 2 to the wireless terminals 3 to 7 ( the base station 2 ← the wireless terminal 3 ← the wireless terminal 5 or 6 ), the present invention is not restricted to the embodiments and data may flow from the wireless terminals 3 to 7 to the base station 2 ( for example , the base station 2 → the wireless terminal 3 → the wireless terminal 5 or 6 ). in the latter case , a sending side terminal ( for example , the wireless terminal 3 ) changes a preamble length and a receiving side terminal ( for example , the wireless terminal 5 or 6 ) changes an intermittent receive period . while the present invention has been described with reference to the particular illustrative embodiments , it is not to be restricted by those embodiments but only by the appended claims . it is to be appreciated that those skilled in the art can change and modify the embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention . | US-4317205-A |
an automatic height control for a gathering reel used with an agricultural combine of the type in which a floating cutter assembly and a gathering reel are carried by the header of the combine forwardly of the header . the control system of the invention adjusts the height of the gathering reel in closely tracking relation with vertical movement of the floating cutter assembly to thereby avoid damage to the gathering reel and to the cutter assembly due to interference between the cutter assembly and the gathering reel . the control system of the invention may be used in conjunction with a prior art header height control arrangement which responds to a predetermined vertical movement of the floating cutter assembly to vertically adjust the header and thus to vertically adjust the gathering reel carried by the header . however , the automatic height control of the invention requires a smaller increment of vertical movement of the cutter assembly for initiation of the gathering reel height adjustment than is required by the prior art header height control . the close tracking relation of the vertical position of the gathering reel relative to the vertical position of the cutter assembly provided by the control arrangement of the present invention permits location of the gathering reel closer to the cutter assembly and to the crop inlet end of the header , and in an optimum position for most effectively gathering the crop for cutting and for depositing the cut crop in the header of the combine . | referring now to the drawings and more particularly to fig1 there is shown an agricultural combine generally indicated at 10 having a cut crop receiving apparatus or header generally indicated at 12 , pivotally connected at 14 at the upper portion of the header to the forward portion of the combine . the lower portion of header 12 is pivotally connected at point 18 to piston 19 of a hydraulic ram generally indicated at 16 , the cylinder 17 of which is suitably anchored to the main structure of combine 12 , whereby to permit pivotal swinging movement of header 12 relative to the main structure of the combine 10 about pivot point 14 for purposes of transport and also to permit adjusting the vertical position of header 12 with respect to the main structure of combine 10 . header 12 is adjusted vertically as a function of the vertical position of floating cutter assembly 23 , as is shown by the aforementioned u . s . pat . no . 3 , 698 , 164 to jerry c . boone et al . this vertical adjustment of header 12 as a function of the vertical position of floating cutter assembly 23 is accomplished by controlling the admission of hydraulic fluid to or alternatively by controlling the exhaust of hydraulic fluid from hydraulic ram 16 to thereby control the angular position of header 12 about the pivotal connection 14 of header 12 to the main structure of combine 10 . since gathering reel 30 is mounted on header 12 , vertical adjustment of header 12 as just described provides adjustment of gathering reel 30 in response to vertical movement of floating cutter assembly 23 . however , the vertical adjustment of header 12 only occurs after a predetermined vertical movement of floating cutter assembly 23 has occurred , and hence only a coarse adjustment is made in the vertical position of gathering reel 30 in response to a vertical movement of floating cutter assembly 23 . a forwardly extending floating arm 20 which may be one of a plurality of similar support arms is pivotally connected at 22 to header 12 . only one arm 20 is shown in supporting relation to floating cutter assembly 23 . however , it will be understood that floating cutter assembly 23 may be supported by a plurality of similar forwardly extending arms 20 . a riding shoe 27 is attached to floating arm 20 near the forward end of arm 20 and rides on the ground surface , following the contour of the ground , thereby causing arm 20 and the cutter assembly 23 carried by arm 20 to pivot about point 22 in response to changes in the ground contour or in response to an obstacle which might be passed over by riding shoe 27 . the floating cutter assembly 23 comprises a stationary cutter bar 24 from the forward end of which extend a plurality of stationary sickle guards 26 which are spaced from each other laterally of cutter bar 24 . sickle guards 26 cooperate with a reciprocating sickle 28 to provide a cutting action on the crops which are acted upon by the combine , as is well known in the art . header 12 typically might have a transverse dimension extending laterally of the direction of travel of the combine of 24 feet , for example . the floating cutter assembly 23 supported by floating arms 20 extends for substantially the entire transverse width of header 12 . a conveyor auger 29 , shown in dotted line in fig1 is mounted inside the forward portion of header 12 and serves to convey laterally toward the threshing area of the combine crops deposited in the forward end of header 12 by gathering reel 30 , the cut crops being moved up the shield 33 ( which serves as a ramp ) by gathering reel 30 and into header 12 . a gathering reel generally indicted at 30 of the tine or finger type is supported forwardly of header 12 by means of reel arms 32 which are pivotally supported at pivot point 34 on header 12 . gathering reel 30 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced radially extending arms 36 which support contiguous the radially outer ends of the respective arms downwardly depending tines 38 . reel 30 is rotatably driven by suitable drive means ( not shown ), and during the rotation of reel 30 the tines 38 are caused to follow a predetermined orbital path by suitable mechanism ( not shown ) as is well known in the art . means are provided in accordance with the present invention for adjusting the vertical height of the gathering reel 30 in closely tracking relation with variations in the height of the floating cutter assembly 23 such as might be caused by undulations in the terrain or by obstacles in the path of the floating cutter assembly . a hydraulic cylinder assembly or ram generally indicated at 40 mounted on the forward portion of header 12 is provided for adjusting the vertical height of reel support arms 32 about the pivotal axis 34 of reel support arms 32 and thus whereby to adjust the vertical height of gathering reel 30 . only one hydraulic cylinder assembly 40 is shown and described . however , a separate hydraulic cylinder assembly 40 may be provided for each reel support arm 32 . hydraulic cylinder assembly 40 comprises a hydraulic cylinder 42 and a piston 43 ( fig4 ) movable within hydraulic cylinder 42 . piston 43 carries a piston rod 44 . the upper end of piston rod 44 is pivotally connected at 49 to the lower end of an adjusting arm 46 , the opposite and upper end of adjusting arm 46 being pivotally connected at 48 to reel arm 32 . an internally threaded nut member 50 is welded or otherwise rigidly secured to the surface of adjusting arm 46 intermediate the length of adjusting arm 46 . a screw member 52 threadedly engages the internally threaded nut member 50 carried by adjusting arm 46 . an abutment 54 is welded or otherwise rigidly attached to the surface of reel support arm 32 in the path of movement of adjusting screw 52 . thus , it will be seen that by rotating screw 52 into engagement with abutment 54 , reel support arm 32 may be adjusted upwardly or downwardly as desired about the pivotal support axis 34 of arm 32 whereby to provide a desired adjustment of the height of gathering reel 30 for a given position of piston rod 44 of hydraulic cylinder assembly 40 and for obtaining a desired initial adjustment of the position of the tines 38 of gathering reel 32 relative to floating cutter assembly 23 . the automatic height control means for gathering reel 30 comprises a plurality of sensing members each generally indicated at 56 located in laterally spaced relation to each other along the transverse width of header 12 and at intervals which coincide with the flexibility of cutter bar 24 . each sensing member 56 is of generally l shape and includes a forwardly extending sensing portion 58 to the rearward or left - hand end of which , relative to the view shown in the drawings , is rigidly connected a vertical portion 60 . the vertical portion 60 of each respective sensing member 56 is rigidly secured to a rod member 62 which extends for the lateral width of header 12 , the opposite ends of rod 62 being suitably supported by bearings carried by the laterally opposite walls of header 12 for angular or pivotal movement of rod 62 about a horizontal axis . an inclined lever arm or crank member 64 is fixed to rod 62 and extends on the opposite side of the horizontal pivotal axis of rod 62 from the side on which vertical arm portions 60 of the respective sensing members 56 lie . referring now more particularly to fig2 and 3 which show details of the control mechanism for the gathering reel height control , it will be noted that the outer end of crank member 64 is pivotally connected at 66 to the lower end of run 68a of steel cable 68 which is trained about a pulley member 70 . pulley member 70 is supported for rotation by a normally horizontal upper support bracket member 72 which in turn is clamped or otherwise secured to the upper end of hydraulic cylinder 42 . cable 68 passes over pulley 70 to define a cable run 68b which extends downwardly on the opposite side of pulley 70 from the cable run 68a . the lower end of cable run 68b is secured to a sheave 74 which is fixed to a horizontal shaft 76 . shaft 76 is supported for rotation by laterally spaced vertically extending arm members 78 which are secured to a lower horizontal support bracket 80 which in turn is clamped or otherwise secured to hydraulic cylinder 42 . a recoil spring assembly is generally indicated at 82 and includes a spring 82a and a spring housing 82b . spring housing 82b is fixed to vertical arm member 78 which , in turn , is secured to horizontal bracket 80 . thus , spring housing 82b is fixed in position relative to hydraulic cylinder 42 . one end of recoil spring 82a is secured to rotatable shaft 76 , while the other end of spring 82a is secured to spring housing 82b . recoil spring 82a applies a constant torque to shaft 76 which maintains sufficient tension in cable 68 to take up any slack which may occur in cable 68 . recoil spring 82a also serves to bias sensing member 56 into constant engagement with floating cutter assembly 23 . a switch operator member 84 is fixed to and moves with run 68b of cable 68 . switch operator member 84 is also secured to a vertically slidable rod member 86 . rod 86 is guided and supported in its vertical movement by suitable guide passages in upper and lower stationary clamping brackets 72 and 80 . switch operator 84 cooperates with a &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 and with a &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 which are mounted on a switch housing generally indicated at 92 . switch housing 92 is secured to and moves with a vertical rod 93 which is guided in its vertical movement by guide passages in the upper and lower horizontal brackets 72 and 80 . the upper end of vertically movable piston rod 44 which moves in hydraulic cylinder 42 is connected by a cross member 94 to the upper end of vertically slidable rod 93 whereby rod 93 and hence switch housing 92 move up and down in accordance with the vertical movements of piston rod 44 . in the hydraulic and electrical circuit diagram of fig4 there is shown a first solenoid valve 104 for controlling the admission of hydraulic fluid from continuously operating pump 105 to the interior of hydraulic cylinder 42 beneath piston 43 . there is also shown a second solenoid valve 106 which controls the exhaust of hydraulic fluid from hydraulic cylinder 42 beneath piston 43 . in fig4 both of the solenoid valves 104 and 106 are shown in their neutral or deenergized position . that is , &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; solenoid valve 104 is shown in a position in which valve 104 does not hydraulically connect the output of continuously operating pump 105 to the interior of hydraulic cylinder 42 , but instead connects the output of pump 105 to sump 108 through passage 104a in valve 104 . also , in fig4 &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; solenoid valve 106 is shown in a position in which it does not exhaust hydraulic fluid from cylinder 42 through valve passage 106a to sump 108 . a pressure relief valve 110 is connected from output conduit 112 of pump 105 to sump 108 to permit pump 105 to discharge to sump 108 regardless of the position of solenoid valve 104 , in the event of an excessive hydraulic pressure condition in pump output line 112 . referring now to the electrical wiring diagram of fig4 it will be noted that a selector switch 96 is provided which may be selectively switched to either the manual position or to the auto position . if selector switch 96 is thrown to the manual position , the electrical power supply indicated at 100 is connected to manual control switch 102 which may be thrown either to the &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; position to energize solenoid - operated valve 104 to cause the raising of piston 43 in hydraulic cylinder 42 , and thus to cause the raising of gathering reel 30 or , alternatively , manual control switch 102 may be thrown to the &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; position to energize solenoid - operated valve 106 which causes hydraulic pressure to be relieved in hydraulic cylinder 42 to cause the lowering of piston 43 in hydraulic cylinder 42 and thus to cause the lowering of gathering reel 30 . for automatic control of the height of gathering reel 30 in accordance with variations in the vertical position of floating cutter assembly 23 , selector switch 96 is moved to auto position . assume that as combine 10 moves along the ground surface it encounters an obstacle or encounters a rise in the level of the ground . this obstacle or rise in the ground elevation will cause an upward movement of floating cutter assembly 23 causing sensing element 56 to move upwardly in a counterclockwise direction relative to the views of fig1 and 2 , thereby rotating arm 60 , rod 62 and crank member 64 in a counterclockwise direction relative to the views of fig1 and 2 . the counterclockwise rotation of crank 64 pulls cable member 68 in a downward direction over pulley 70 , causing a downward movement of cable run 68a and an upward movement of cable run 68b . upward movement of cable run 68b moves switch operator 84 in an upward direction relative to the view of fig1 and 2 from its neutral position shown in the view of fig2 in which switch operator 84 is shown in the void space between the two switches 88 and 90 , and causes switch operator 84 to engage and close &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 , thereby energizing &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; solenoid valve 104 which permits hydraulic fluid from pump 105 to pass through passage 104b of &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; solenoid valve 104 and into hydraulic cyinder 42 beneath piston 43 . this causes upward movement of piston 43 and piston rod 44 and hence causes an upward movement of reel support arms 32 to raise gathering reel 30 . the same upward movement of piston 43 and piston rod 44 which imparts an upward movement to gathering reel 30 as just described also imparts an upward movement to slidable rod 93 which is connected through cross connecting member 94 to the upper end of piston rod 44 , thereby imparting an upward movement to switch housing 92 which is secured to and moves upwardly with slidable rod 93 . upward movement of switch housing 92 as just described causes &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 which is mounted on and carried by switch housing 92 to move upwardly into engagement with switch operator 84 , &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 in the same upward movement of switch housing 92 moving out of engagement with switch operator 84 . the engagement of &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 with switch operator 84 closes &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 88 and results in energization of the &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; solenoid valve 106 which connects the space in hydraulic cylinder 42 beneath piston 43 to sump 108 , thereby relieving hydraulic pressure in cylinder 42 beneath piston 43 and permitting piston 43 to drop , and consequently permitting switch housing 92 which is physically connected to piston rod 44 through connecting member 94 and through vertically slidable rod 93 to lower . the lowering of switch housing 92 as just described moves &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 out of contact with switch operator 84 and causes &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 to again contact switch operator 84 , to thereby close &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 . during this cycling sequence just described , switch operator 84 remains throughout at a vertical position determined by the vertical level of the floating cutter assembly 23 . the cycling sequence in which switch operator 84 is alternately engaged by &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 and by &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 continues until switch housing 92 finally settles at a stabilized or equilibrium position at which switch operator 84 is located in the void space between the &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; and &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switches 88 and 90 , respectively , carried by switch housing 92 . the sequence of events which occurred when floating cutter assembly 23 moved upwardly due to encountering a rise in the ground level or an obstacle , as just described , is substantially reversed when floating cutter assembly 23 passes over the obstacle and drops to the next highest obstacle or level . when floating cutter assembly 23 passes over the obstacle and drops down to the next highest level , this causes crank member 64 to rotate in a clockwise direction with respect to the views of fig1 and 2 , thereby relieving the tension on cable 68 and permitting recoil spring 82a to pull downwardly onto run 68b of cable 68 to thereby cause the winding of cable 68 onto sheave 74 . since switch operator 84 is secured to cable run 68b , the downward movement of cable run 68b causes switch operator 84 to engage and close &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 , thereby energizing &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; solenoid valve 106 to exhaust some hydraulic fluid from beneath piston 43 in hydraulic cylinder 42 to sump 108 , thereby causing downward movement of piston 43 and of piston rod 44 , to thereby lower lift arms 32 and gathering reel 30 carried by lift arms 32 . the downward movement of piston 43 and piston rod 44 as just described will also lower switch housing 92 due to the connection between piston rod 44 and the vertically slidable rod 93 on which switch housing 92 is mounted . the downward movement of switch housing 92 causes &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 to engage and be closed by switch operator 84 , causing energization of &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; solenoid valve 104 to thereby admit fluid to hydraulic cylinder 42 beneath piston 43 . this cycle of alternately closing first &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 and then &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 as just described will continue until switch housing 92 finally reaches a position of stabilization or equilibrium in which switch housing 92 is so positioned relative to switch operator 84 that switch operator 84 is positioned in the void space between &# 34 ; lower &# 34 ; switch 90 and &# 34 ; raise &# 34 ; switch 88 or ; alternatively , until another vertical movement of floating cutter assembly 23 transmits a mechanical movement to the system to initiate a new repositioning cycle for gathering reel 30 . from the foregoing detailed description of the invention , it has been shown how the objects of the invention have been obtained in a preferred manner . however , modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts such as readily occur to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of this invention . | US-92019378-A |
a caster for providing rolling support including a spring - loaded mount . the caster may be substantially concealed in the bottom edge of a hinged , swinging door , and generally located proximate to the free vertical edge of the door . an elongated spring plate is provided as a mount for a roller , causing the roller to accommodate variations in the floor surface , maintain contact with the floor , and support the door . the spring plate has a first portion adapted to be mounted to the bottom edge of a door , and a second portion depending from the first portion . an axle is mounted to the second portion , inside a hub that is mounted to the roller . the axle may be substantially parallel to the first portion of the spring plate . single roller and double roller caster assemblies are provided . | in the figures herein , unique features receive unique reference numerals , while features that are the same in more than one drawing receive the same reference numerals throughout . where a feature is modified between figures or is modified only by a change in location , a letter may be added or changed after the feature reference numeral to distinguish that feature from a similar feature in a previous figure or the same feature in an alternate location . further , certain terms of orientation may be used , such as “ horizontal ,” “ vertical ,” “ upper ,” “ lower ,” “ top ,” “ bottom ,” “ left ,” “ right ,” “ inside ,” “ outside ” “ inner ” and “ outer .” these terms are generally for convenience of reference , and should be so understood unless a particular embodiment requires otherwise . where the terms “ horizontal ” and “ vertical ” are used , they should be understood to mean “ approximately horizontal ” and “ approximately vertical ,” respectively . the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited by materials listed herein , but may be carried out using any materials that allow construction and operation . materials and dimensions depend on the particular application . in general the materials of the components may be metal , and selectively may be plastic , as known by one of ordinary skill in the art . referring now to the drawings , an embodiment of a spring caster 20 according to the present invention is shown in fig1 and 2 . the caster 20 includes a cantilever - type spring plate 22 with a horizontal portion 24 having openings 26 a – 26 d for mounting screws 28 a – 28 d and washers 30 a – 30 d at one end and downturned vertical portion 34 at the other end . shims 32 a – 32 c are provided for vertical adjustment relative to the door during installation . a roller assembly including a hub 36 , a roller 38 , and an axle 40 is provided . the hub 36 has a smaller diameter portion 42 and a larger diameter portion 44 . the roller 38 includes an inner ring 46 , an outer ring 48 , and ball bearings ( not shown ). the outer ring 48 rotates relative to the inner ring 46 . the smaller diameter portion 42 of the hub 36 may fit in the inner ring 46 with a substantially tight interference fit , such that there is no relative movement between the hub 36 and inner ring 46 . the inner ring 46 comprises a self - aligning ball bearing 47 , shown in fig . 8 , including two raceways 49 , 51 in which ball bearings 53 are disposed . the outer ring 48 has one raceway . the inside of the outer ring raceway forms a spherical surface whose center coincides with the bearing center and has no defined path . the ball bearing design allows misalignment of the inner ring 46 and outer ring 48 . an example suitable self - aligning bearings is part # it - 0139a - 0703 , crown roller with self - aligning bearing by intech corporation of closter , ill . other bearings may be selected by one of ordinary skill in the art . the axle 40 in this embodiment is a machine screw including a threaded end portion , as may be selected by one of ordinary skill in the art . the axle 40 may also be , for example , a threaded rod , with or without portions unthreaded , with or without a head , or a bolt . where reference is made to a threaded rod , it should be understood to include screws , bolts , rods with or without heads , rods omitting threads over some portion , or the like . the axle 40 may be aligned substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the spring plate 22 , with the direction of movement of the roller 38 perpendicular to the spring plate longitudinal axis . the axle 40 extends through the hub 36 , roller 38 , and a vertical slot 50 in the vertical portion 34 of the spring plate 22 . a nut 52 is threaded onto the threaded end portion of the axle 40 for securing the hub 36 and roller 38 to the vertical portion of the plate 22 . a star washer 54 and lock washer 56 are provided to pre - load the assembly 20 and to prevent turning and loosening of the axle 40 . the slot 50 in the vertical portion 34 of the spring plate 22 allows vertical adjustment of the connection of the roller 38 relative to the horizontal portion of the spring plate 22 . the nut 52 may be sized and shaped to help prevent loosening by causing the nut to collide with the horizontal portion 24 of the spring plate 22 when the nut tries to turn . for example , the nut 52 may be a rectangular threaded block , as shown , or the like . fig3 shows a complete door and caster assembly 60 , including a door 62 and the embodiment of a caster 20 from fig1 and 2 . a portion of the face of the door 62 is removed to expose the caster 20 and an end plate assembly 64 . the caster assembly 20 is disposed in a recessed area 66 formed in the bottom edge of the door 62 . the horizontal portion 24 of the spring plate is secured to the door 62 with screws 28 a – 28 d . the spring plate 22 is cantilevered from the mounting screws 28 a – 28 d distal from the free vertical edge 70 of the door , and has a free end 72 proximate to the free vertical edge of the door . because the spring plate 22 is flexible and resilient , the free end 72 of the spring plate 22 may move up and down to support the door 62 and for the roller 38 to contact the floor 74 as necessary . in the embodiment shown there are three steps 76 – 78 to the recessed area , with the depth of each step from the bottom edge 80 of the door 62 increasing as the distance to the edge 70 of the door 62 decreases . the stepped recessed area 66 provides space for the roller assembly . it should be understood that more or as few as no steps could be used by adjusting the number of shims 32 a – 32 c , thickness of shims , or both . an embodiment of an end plate assembly 64 is shown in fig4 and includes an end plate 90 , two screws 92 a , 92 b that extend through two openings 94 a , 94 b , and two resilient electrometric strips 96 a , 96 b . the elastomeric strips 96 a , 96 b provide a load on the screws 92 a , 92 b to keep them from loosening . the end plate assembly 64 conceals the caster assembly 20 from the free vertical edge 70 of the door 62 if necessary , which is the case if there is an opening on the free vertical edge 70 . the entire caster assembly 20 is substantially concealed between the faces of the door 62 , except for the portion of the roller 38 that extends beneath the bottom edge 80 of the door . in many applications the roller 38 will not be visible from the viewing position of someone using the door 62 , though the roller 38 need not be concealed . fig5 and 6 show another embodiment of a caster 100 according to the present invention . the caster 100 has a double roller assembly 102 that may be desirable when the load on the caster exceeds the capacity of the single roller caster 20 described above ( fig1 – 3 ). the spring plate arrangement of the double roller caster 100 is similar to that of the single roller caster 20 . the parts of this embodiment of the caster 100 which are identical to those of the caster 20 according to above embodiment are denoted by identical reference numbers and will not be described in detail below . an angle bracket 104 and a c - shaped clamp 106 are provided for securing the double roller assembly 102 to the spring plate 22 . the angle bracket 104 has a vertical portion 108 and a horizontal portion 110 , with an opening 112 a , 112 b through each portion . the vertical portion 108 of the bracket 104 and the vertical portion 34 of the spring plate 22 are received between the ends of the clamp 106 . a screw 114 extends through a lock washer 116 , a vertical slot 118 in the clamp 106 , the opening 112 a in the vertical portion 108 of the bracket 104 , and the slotted opening 50 in the vertical portion 34 of the spring plate 22 . the vertical slots 50 , 118 allow the double roller assembly 102 to be adjusted relative to the horizontal portion 24 of the spring plate 22 . a nut 52 is threaded onto the end of the screw 114 for securing the angle bracket 104 and clamp 106 to the vertical portion 34 of the plate . the double roller assembly 102 includes a hub 122 , two rollers 38 a , 38 b , and axles 124 a , 124 b . the hub 122 is double ended 126 a , 126 b , and has a central portion 128 that includes a planar surface 130 having a threaded opening 132 . the planar surface 132 is the mounting surface for the horizontal portion 110 of the bracket 104 . a screw 134 extends through a lock washer 136 and the opening 112 b in the horizontal portion 110 of the bracket 104 . the screw 134 and lock washer 136 mount the spring plate 22 via the bracket 104 to the hub 122 . the threaded opening 132 receives the screw 134 to secure the bracket 104 . the ends 126 a , 126 b , the central portion 128 , or both , of the hub 122 may be threaded openings 138 a , 138 b and may accept two screws 124 a , 124 b with star washers 140 a , 140 b and lock washers 142 a , 142 b . as with the hub 36 of the single roller assembly , the ends 124 a , 124 b of the hub 122 of the double roller assembly 102 have a smaller diameter portion 144 a , 144 b and a larger diameter portion 146 a , 146 b . the smaller diameter portion 144 a , 144 b of the ends 126 a , 126 b of the hub 122 may extend into the inner ring 46 a , 46 b of the roller 38 a , 38 b with a substantially tight interference fit . the larger diameter portion 146 a , 146 b is contiguous with the central portion 128 of the hub 122 . the rollers 38 a , 38 b may again be self - aligning bearings having an inner ring 46 a , 46 b and an outer ring 48 a , 48 b , or alternatively other types of bearings as selected by one of ordinary skill in the art . the axles 124 a , 124 b pass through each end 126 a , 126 b of the hub 122 and each roller 38 a , 38 b . large washers 148 a , 148 b are provided between the hub 122 and rollers 38 a , 38 b to prevent wear of the rollers against the ends 126 a , 126 b of the hub 122 . an alternative design may allow one bolt 149 to pass through the entire hub 122 and make up the axle , which when assembled would look like the double roller assembly 102 and part 124 b shown in fig5 . like fig3 , fig7 shows a complete door and caster assembly 150 , including a door 62 and the embodiment of a caster 100 from fig5 and 6 . a portion of the face of the door 62 is removed to expose the caster 100 and end plate assembly 64 . the caster 100 is disposed in the recessed area 66 formed in the bottom edge of the door . as in the embodiment 60 previously described , because the spring plate 22 is flexible and resilient , the free end 72 of the spring plate 22 may deflect and apply upward force to support the door 62 . the entire caster assembly 100 is substantially concealed between the faces of the door 62 , except for a portion of the rollers 38 a , 38 b , which need not be concealed and which extends beneath the bottom edge 80 of the door 62 . specific embodiments of an invention are described herein . one of ordinary skill in the caster and door support arts will recognize that the invention has other applications in other environments . in fact , many embodiments and implementations are possible . for example , the caster could be applied to articles other than doors . the caster of the present invention may have varying designs of mounts of the axles and rollers to the spring plates . more than two rollers may be provided . in addition , the recitation “ means for ” is intended to evoke a means - plus - function reading of an element in a claim , whereas , any elements that do not specifically use the recitation “ means for ,” are not intended to be read as means - plus - function elements , even if they otherwise include the word “ means .” the following claims are in no way intended to limit the scope of the invention to the specific embodiments described . | US-90655605-A |
a substrate transfer system comprising a cassette table for mounting a cassette which has an opening portion for loading and unloading a substrate and a cover detachably provided to the opening portion , process portion for processing the substrate housed in a cassette on the cassette table , a transfer arm mechanism for taking out the substrate from the cassette table , transferring it to process units g1 to g5 , and returning a processed substrate to the cassette on the cassette table , partition members provided between the transfer arm mechanism and the cassette table , for separating an atmosphere on the side of the transfer arm mechanism from that on the side of the cassette table , a passage formed in the partition member so as to face the opening portion of the cassette on the cassette table , for passing the substrate taken out from the cassette on the cassette table by the transfer arm mechanism and returning the substrate to the cassette on the cassette table , cassette moving mechanisms for moving the opening portion of the cassette on the cassette table closer to the passage or to be farther from the passage , and a cover removing mechanism for detaching the cover from the opening portion or attaching the cover to the opening portion of the cassette . | hereinbelow , preferable embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings . as shown in fig2 the coating and developing process system 1 ( provided in a clean room ) comprises a cassette station 10 , a process station 11 , an interface portion 12 , first and second sub - arm mechanisms 21 and 24 , and a main arm mechanism 22 . above the portions 10 , 11 and 12 , air - conditioning fan filter units ( ffu ) are provided . the fan filter unit ( ffu ) is responsible for blowing out clean air downwardly , thereby forming a clean - air down flow . the cassette station 10 has a cassette table 20 designed for placing a plurality of cassettes cr thereon . the cassette cr contains a predetermined number of wafers w ( either 25 or 13 ). a wafer w is taken out from the cassette cr by the sub - arm mechanism 21 and loaded into the process station 11 . as shown in fig3 and 4 , the process station 11 has 5 process units g1 to g5 . the process units g1 to g5 are arranged in a multiple - stage vertical array . wafers are loaded / unloaded one by one to each of the process units by the main arm mechanism 22 . the interface portion 12 is interposed between the process station 11 and a light - exposure device ( not shown ). the wafer w is loaded / unloaded into the light - exposure device by the sub - arm mechanism 24 . four projections 20a are provided on the cassette table 20 . the projections 20a are responsible for placing the cassette cr at a predetermined position of the table 20 . a cover 44 is provided to the cassette cr to be loaded into the cassette station 10 . the cassette cr is positioned on the cassette table 20 in such a way that the cover faces the process station 11 . the process station 11 has 5 process units g1 , g2 , g3 , g4 and g5 . the first and second process units g1 and g2 are arranged in the front side of the system . the third process unit g3 is positioned adjacent to the cassette station 10 . the fourth process unit g4 is positioned next to the interface portion 12 . the fifth process unit g5 is positioned in the rear side of the system . the main arm mechanism 22 has moving mechanisms along the x - axis and z - axis and a rotating mechanism about the z axis by angle θ . the main arm mechanism 22 receives the wafer w from the first sub - arm mechanism 21 and then transfers the wafer w to an alignment unit ( alim ) and an extension unit ( ext ) belonging to the third process unit g3 in the process station 11 . as shown in fig3 in the first process unit g1 , two spinner type process units are provided in which predetermined processing is respectively applied to the wafer mounted on a spin chuck in the cup ( cp ). to be more specific , a resist coating ( cot ) unit and a developing ( dev ) unit are superposed in this order from the bottom . in the same manner , two spinner type process units , cop and dev units are superposed in the second process unit g2 . these cot units are preferably arranged in a lower position to facilitate the discharge . as shown in fig4 the third process unit g3 consists of 8 layers , that is , a cooling ( col ) unit , an adhesion unit , an alignment ( alim ) unit , an extension ( ext ) unit , prebaking ( prebake ) units , post and baking ( pobake ) units . they are superposed in this order from the bottom . in the same manner , the fourth process unit g4 consists of 8 layers , that is , a cooling ( col ) unit , an extension cooling ( extcol ) unit , an extension ( ext ) unit , a cooling unit ( col ), prebaking ( prebake ) units , and postbaking ( pobake ) units . since the col and extcol units responsible for low - temperature processing are placed in the lower stage and prebake , pobake , and ad units responsible for high temperature processing are placed in the upper stage , thermal interference between the units can be lowered . the size in the x - axis direction of the interface portion 12 is almost equal to that of the process station 11 . however , the size in the y - axis direction is smaller than that of the process station 11 . in the front portion of the interface portion 12 , an immobile buffer cassette br is arranged . in the rear portion , a peripheral light exposure device 23 is positioned . in the center portion ( in the vertical direction ), the second sub - arm mechanism 24 is provided . the second sub - arm mechanism 24 has the same moving mechanisms as those of the first sub - arm mechanism 21 . the second sub - arm mechanism can access to the ext unit belonging to the forth process unit g4 and to the adjoining wafer transfer portion ( not shown ) provided on the light exposure side . in the coating and developing process system 1 , the fifth process unit g5 may be arranged on the back side of the main wafer transfer mechanism 22 . the fifth process unit g5 can be moved in the y - axis direction along a guide rail 25 . if the fifth process unit g5 is moved , an enough space can be given for performing maintenance and inspection of the main arm mechanism 22 from the back side . as shown in fig5 a transfer chamber 31 of the cassette station 10 is shut out from a clean - room atmosphere by means of a first vertical partition board 32 . in the lower portion of the first vertical partition board 32 , a gate block 60 is provided . in the gate block 60 , an upper opening passage ( tunnel ) 33a and a lower opening ( storage room ) 33b are formed . in the space made of these upper and lower openings 33a and 33b , a cover - removing mechanism 47 is provided . in the passage 33a , a cover 44 is removed from the cassette cr by means of the cover - removing mechanism 47 and stored in the storage room 33b for a while . the cassette station 10 and process station 11 are separated from each other by a second vertical partition board 35 . the second vertical partition board 35 has a communication passage 36 with an open / close shutter 37 . in the space between the first and second partition boards , the first sub - arm mechanism 21 is provided . the first sub - arm mechanism 21 comprises an x - axis moving mechanism 42 for moving the arm 21a in the x direction , a y - axis moving mechanism 39 for moving the arm 21a in the y direction , and a z - axis moving and rotating mechanism 40 for moving the arm 21a in the z direction and rotating the arm 21a about the z - axis . a wafer w is taken out from the cassette cr by the first sub - arm mechanism 21 through the passage ( tunnel ) 33a of the gate block 60 and loaded into a process station 11 through the passage 36 of the second partition board 35 . hereinbelow , the cassette table 20 and the cover removing mechanism 47 will be explained with reference to fig6 , 8a to 8m , 11 and 15 . to the cassette table 20 , a movable base 80 is provided which is connected to a rod 82a of a y - axis cylinder 82 . on the middle of the upper surface of the movable base 80 , the projection 20a is provided . when the cassette cr is mounted on the cassette table 20 , the projection 20a is engaged with a depression ( not shown ) formed on the bottom of the cassette cr . in this manner , the cassette cr is positioned at a predetermined position . the projection 20a has a touch sensor function . hence , when the cassette cr is placed on the cassette table 20 , the presence of the cassette cr is detected by the sensor . the detection signal is sent from the touch sensor to a controller 59 . as shown in fig6 the cover - removing mechanism 47 has a shutter board 49 and an elevator mechanism 52 . the elevator mechanism 52 comprises a pair of linear guides 48 , a ball screw 53 , and a motor 55 . the linear guides 48 are provided vertically on sides of both the upper opening ( tunnel ) 33a and the lower opening 33b . nuts 49a are provided on the left and right end portions of the shutter board 49 and respectively connected to linear guides 48 . the nuts 49a are screwed on the ball screw 53 . a gear 54 of the screw 53 is engaged with a movement gear 56 of the motor 55 . the shutter board 49 can be moved through a space in the z direction from the passage ( tunnel ) 33a to the storage room 33b by means of the elevator mechanism 52 . it should be noted that an air cylinder may be employed as the elevator mechanism 52 . the shutter board 49 has a pair of keys 50 . each of the keys 50 is supported by a θ &# 39 ; rotation mechanism ( not shown ). each of the keys 50 is provided on the shutter board 49 so as to correspond to each of key holes 45 formed in the cassette cover 44 shown in fig1 . as shown in fig1 , when the key 50 is inserted in the key hole 45 and rotated by an angle of θ &# 39 ;, a lock piece 249 engaged with a key groove of the key hole 45 . in this manner , the cassette cover 44 is locked on the shutter board 49 . as shown in fig7 first optical sensors 57a and 57b are provided above and below the gate block 60 , respectively , in such a way that the optical axis formed between the sensors crosses the front portion of the cassette cr set on a second position . the second optical sensors 58a and 58b are provided above and below the gate block 60 , respectively , in such a way that the optical axis formed between the sensors crosses the front portion of the cassette cr set on a third position . the controller 59 controls the movements of the y - axis cylinder 82 on the cassette table 20 and the motor 55 of the cover - removing mechanism 47 on the basis of detection data sent from the touch sensor 20a and the first and second optical sensors 57a , 57b , 58a and 58b . as shown in fig8 b , the initial position of the cassette cr at which the cassette cr is placed for the first time on the cassette table 20 is defined as &# 34 ; a first position &# 34 ;. as shown in fig8 f , the position at which the cassette cr is moved backward from a removed cover 44 is defined as a &# 34 ; second position &# 34 ;. furthermore , the position of the cassette cr when the cover 44 is removed from the cassette cr ( shown in fig8 d and 8l ) and the position of the cassette cr with the cover 44 removed ( shown in fig8 g to 8i ) when the wafer w is taken out from the cassette cr 10 defined as &# 34 ; a third position &# 34 ;. the cover 44 of the cassette cr at the first position is located on an entrance ( front end portion ) of the passage ( tunnel ) 33a . the controller 59 detects whether the cassette cr is positioned at the first position or not on the basis of the detection data sent from the touch sensor 20a and the first and second optical sensors 57a , 57b , 58a and 58b . the first sensors 57a and 57b are responsible for detecting the wafer wh protruding from the cassette without the cover . the second sensors 58a and 58b are responsible for detecting the protruding wafer wh from the cassette cr in order to prevent the interference between the first sub arm mechanism 21 and the wafer wh . hereinafter , the operation of the cover - removing mechanism 47 will be explained with reference to fig8 a to 8m and fig9 . before the cassette cr is mounted on the cassette table 20 , a shutter board 49 of the cover removing mechanism 47 is positioned on a passage ( tunnel ) 33a , as shown in fig8 a . the atmosphere inside the transfer chamber 31 is isolated from that of the clean room . as shown in fig8 b , when the cassette cr is mounted on the cassette table 20 , the projection 20a is engaged with a depressed portion ( not shown ) of the cassette bottom . in this manner , the cassette cr is positioned at the first position . as shown in fig8 c , the cassette cr is moved forward from the first position to the third position . in this way , the cassette cover 44 is pressed against the shutter board 49 . then , as shown in fig8 d , 11 , and 15 , the key 50 is inserted into the key hole 45 and turned to lock the shutter board 49 to the cover 44 . in this manner , the cassette cover 44 and the shutter board 49 are made into one body . as shown in fig8 e , the cassette cr is moved back from the third position to the second position to remove the cover 44 from the cassette cr . subsequently , as shown in fig8 f , the cover 44 is descended together with the shutter board 49 to house the cover 44 in the storage room ( the lower opening ) 33b . in the second position , since the front portion of the cassette cr is within the passage ( tunnel ) 33a , the atmosphere in the cassette communicates with that of the process system 1 and the cassette cr cannot be raised from the cassette table 20 during the processing of the wafer w . therefore , it is possible to prevent an accident in which an operator mistakenly picks up the cassette cr during the processing and interrupts the operation . as shown in fig8 g , the cassette cr is then moved forward from the second position to the third position to arrange a front distal end portion of the cassette cr to the place to which the arm 21a of the first sub - arm mechanism accesses . by virtue of the presence of the cassette cr , the atmosphere of the transfer chamber 31 is shut out from that of the clean room with the result that particles are prevented from entering the process system 1 through the passage 33a . as shown in fig8 h and 8i , the arm 21a of the first sub - arm mechanism 21 is inserted into the cassette cr and takes out the wafer w from the cassette cr . as shown in fig9 to the arm 21a of the first sub arm mechanism 21 , a pair of mapping sensors 21b are movably provided . when the mapping operation is made , these sensors 21b are designed to move to the distal end of the arm 21a . due to these structures , if there is a wafer wh protruding from the cassette cr , the sensor 21b hits against the protruding wafer wh , causing not only misoperation of the mapping but also damage of the wafer wh . when the wafer wh protruding from the cassette cr is detected by the first sensors 57a and 57b , the detection signal is sent to the controller 59 , the mapping operation is immediately stopped with the sound of an alarm to avoid mutual interference between the protruding wafer wh and the sensor 21b . the operator checks the wafer wh in the cassette cr and returns the wafer wh to a right position . thereafter , the operator pushes a reset button to restart the processing operation . the protruding wafer wh may be pushed into the cassette cr by a wafer pushing mechanism which will be described later ( see fig2 to 25 ) instead of manual operation by the operator . the wafer w is loaded from the cassette station 10 into the process station 11 , processed through individual units of the process station 11 , exposed light in the light - exposure device , and returned to the cassette cr of the cassette station 10 , again . after completion of processing all wafers w in the cassette cr , the cassette cr is moved back from the third position to the second position . since the cassette cr is located at the second position , mutual interference between the cover 44 and the cassette cr can be prevented even if the cover 44 is ascended from the storage room 33b to the passage 33a . as shown in fig8 k , the cover 44 is ascended together with the shutter board 49 until the cover 44 comes to the passage 33a . subsequently , as shown in fig8 l , the cassette cr is moved forward from the second position to the third position . as a result , the opening portion of the cassette cr is pressed to the cover 44 . in this manner , the cover fits into the opening of the cassette cr . furthermore , as shown in fig1 and 15 , the key 50 is turned to release the lock between the shutter board 49 and the cover 44 . as shown in fig8 m , the cassette cr is moved back from the third position to the first position to take the cover away from the shutter board 49 . the cassette cr is then unloaded from the station 10 . according to the aforementioned device , the shutter board 49 shuts up the passage 33a when no operation is made and the cassette cr shuts up the passage 33a when the operation is made . it is therefore difficult for particles to enter the system from the clean room . since the cassette cr is moved forward and backward toward the passage 33a by the y - axis cylinder 82 , it is not necessary to provide the y - axis movement mechanism to the cover removing mechanism 47 . therefore , the structure of the cover removing mechanism 47 may be simplified , reducing the amount of particles generated . since the wafer w is loaded to and unloaded from the cassette cr while the front end of the cassette cr is present in the passage 33a , the trouble that an operator inadvertently picks up the cassette cr from the cassette table 20 during the processing can be fully prevented . hereinafter , the device and method of the second embodiment will be explained with reference to fig1 - 18e . the part of the second embodiment common in the first embodiment will be omitted . as shown in fig1 , the transfer chamber 31 of the cassette station 10 is separated from the atmosphere of the clean room by a partition board 32 made of , for example , an acrylic board and a stainless steel board . on the partition board 32 , four passages 33 are formed . the sub arm mechanism 21 is provided in the transfer chamber 31 . the sub arm mechanism 21 is responsible for load / unload of the wafer w to the cassette cr through the passage 33 . the size of the passage 33 is slightly larger than the opening 43 of the cassette cr . above the passage 33 , an open - close shutter 34 is provided . the shutter 34 is opened when the cassette cr is present on the cassette table 20 and closed when the cassette cr is not on the cassette table 20 . as shown in fig1 , the opening 43 is formed in the front portion of the cassette cr . the wafer w is loaded / unloaded to the cassette cr through the opening 43 . the cover 44 is provided to the opening 43 in order to keep the inside of the cassette cr airtight . the cassette cr is charged with a non - oxidative gas such as a n 2 gas . alternatively , n 2 gas charging means may be provided to the cassette table 20 to supply the n 2 gas or the like into the cassette cr from which the wafer is to be taken out . inside the cover 44 , lock means 44 ( not shown ) is provided to fix the cover to the cassette cr . on the surface side of the cover 44 , two key holes 45 are formed . the distance between two key holes is desirably a half or more of a lengthwise side of the cover . as shown fig1 , on the transfer chamber 31 side of the cassette table 20 , four cover storage portions 246 are arranged side by side in the x - axis direction . the storage 246 is a portion for storing the cover 44 removed from the cassette cr . on the other hand , four cover removing means 247 are provided to the transfer chamber 31 . the cover removing means 247 are formed in correspondence with the cover storage portions 246 . the cover 44 removed from the cassette cr is stored in the cover storage portions 246 below . as shown in fig1 to 14 , the cover removing mechanism 247 has z - axis moving means 251 and y - axis moving means 252 . the z - axis moving means 251 has two z - axis cylinders 254 which synchronously move up and down . a cover transfer member 248 is supported by the z - axis cylinders 254 . each of the z - axis cylinders 254 is supported by the both ends of a supporting member 255 . the supporting member 255 is connected to two y - axis cylinders 256 . the y - axis cylinder 256 is provided to the cassette table 20 and designed to move the cover transfer member 248 in the y - axis direction . the coating and developing process system 1 is placed in the clean room in which a clean - air flows downwardly . as shown in fig1 and 17 , a clean - air downflow is also formed within the system 1 to keep individual units of the process system 1 clean . in the upper portions of the cassette station 10 , process station 11 and the interface portion 12 of the system 1 , air - supply chambers 61 , 62 and 63 are provided . in the lower surfaces of the air supply chambers 61 , 62 and 63 , dustproof ulpa filters 64 , 65 and 66 are provided . as shown in fig1 , an air - conditioning 67 is provided on the outside or the backside of the process system 1 . air is introduced into the air - supply chambers 61 , 62 and 63 from the air - conditioning 67 by way of a pipe 68 . the introduced air is converted into clean air by means of the ulpa filters 64 , 65 and 66 provided in the individual air - supply chambers . the clean air is supplied downwardly to the portions 10 , 11 and 12 . the down - flow air is collected at a vent 70 through the air holes 69 appropriately provided in the lower portion of the system . the air is returned to the air conditioning 67 from the vent 70 through the pipe 71 . in the ceilings of the resist coating unit ( cot ),( cot ) positioned lower portion of the first and second process units g1 and g2 in the process station 11 , an ulpa filter 72 is provided . air from the air - conditioning 67 is sent to the ulpa filter 72 by way of a pipe 73 branched from the pipe 68 . in the middle of the pipe 73 , a temperature / humidity controller ( not shown ) is provided for supplying clean air to the resist coating unit ( cot ) ( cot ). the controller controls the clean air so as to have a predetermined temperature / humidity suitable for the resist coating step . a temperature / humidity sensor 74 is provided in the proximity of the blow - out port of the ulpa filter 72 . the data obtained by the sensor is fed - back to the control portion of the temperature / humidity controller to control the temperature / humidity of the clean air accurately . in fig1 , in the side wall of each of spinner - type process units such as cot and dev , facing the main wafer transfer mechanism 22 , openings dr are formed trough which the wafer and the transfer arm go in and out . furthermore , to each of the openings dr , a shutter ( not shown ) is provided to prevent particles or the like from entering the space on the side of the main arm mechanism 22 . the amounts of air supplied or exhausted to the transfer chamber 31 are controlled by the air conditioning 67 . by this control , the inner pressure of the transfer chamber 31 is set higher than the inner pressure of the clean room . it is therefore possible to prevent the formation of the air flow from the clean room and the cassette cr to the transfer chamber 31 . as a result , particles are successfully prevented from entering the transfer chamber 31 . since the inner pressure of the process station 11 is set higher than the inner pressure of the transfer chamber 31 , the formation of air flow from the transfer chamber 31 to the process station 11 can be prevented . as a result , particles are successfully prevented from entering the process station 11 . hereinbelow , movement of the cover removing mechanism 247 will be explained with reference to fig1 a to 18e . movement of the cover - removing mechanism 247 is controlled by a controller 59 shown in fig7 . as shown in fig1 a , the shutter 34 is opened and the cassette cr is mounted on the cassette table 20 . then , the cover transfer member 248 is moved forward to the passage 33 by an y - axis movement mechanism 256 . thereafter , as shown in fig1 b , the key 249 for the cover - transfer member 248 is inserted in the key hole 45 of the cover 44 and locked to each other through an inner lock mechanism . the key 249 is rotated by an angle θ &# 39 ;, thereby releasing the lock between the cover 44 and cassette cr . in this manner , the cover 44 can be removed from the cassette cr . as shown in fig1 c , the cover transfer member 248 is then moved back together with the cover 44 in the y - axis direction to load the cover into the transfer chamber 31 through the passage 33 . the cover transfer member 248 is descended together with the cover 44 , as shown in fig1 d , by means of a z - axis direction moving mechanism 251 to the position facing the storage portion 246 . then , as shown in fig1 e , the cover transfer member 248 is moved forward in the y - axis direction to store the cover 44 in the storage portion 246 . thereafter , the wafer w is taken out from the cassette cr by means of the sub - arm mechanism 21 and transferred to the process station 11 . after the wafer w is processed in individual process units , the wafer w is returned to the cassette cr . after the processing of all wafers housed in the cassette cr is completed , the cover 44 is transferred from the storage portion 246 to the passage 33 to put the cover on the opening of the cassette cr . the cassette cr is covered with the cover 44 , locked and transferred outside the system 1 . in the aforementioned process system 1 , the clean air downwardly flowing in the transfer chamber 31 is not disturbed by the attach and detach movement of the cover 44 from the cassette cr . since the cover is housed in the storage portion 246 , the cover 44 itself does not disturb the down flow of the clean - air in the transfer chamber 31 . therefore , deficiency of manufactured products due to particles can be reduced . a third embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to fig1 - 21 . in the system of the third embodiment shown in fig1 and 20 , the cover removed from the cassette cr is rotated about a horizontal axis 384 by 180 degrees by means of a rotation mechanism 382 and then housed in a storage portion 346 . the rotation mechanism 382 comprises a u - shape arm member 381 , a key 349 , a horizontal supporting axis 384 , θ &# 39 ; rotation motor ( not shown ), and θ &# 34 ; rotation motor ( not shown ). the key 349 is provided to one end of the u - shape arm member 381 . the θ &# 39 ; rotation motor is used for rotating the key 349 by an angle of θ &# 39 ;. the θ &# 34 ; rotation motor is used for rotating the key 349 by an angle of θ &# 34 ;, together with the horizontal support axis 384 and the u - shape arm member 381 . as shown in fig2 , the key 349 is rotatably provided in the arm member 381 . when the key 349 is inserted in the key hole 45 , a lock piece 350 is engaged with a key groove . when the key 349 is rotated by angle θ &# 39 ;, the lock between the cover 44 and the cassette cr is released . in this manner , the cover 44 becomes detachable from the cassette cr . when the horizontal support axis is rotated by angle θ &# 34 ;, a cover 44 is rotated by 180 degrees and housed in the storage portion 346 . as described above , in the system according to the third embodiment , the cover can be housed in a simplified mechanism . the embodiments mentioned above are concerned with a resist coating and developing process system used in the photolithography step of the semiconductor device manufacturing process . the present invention is applicable to other process systems . the substrate to be processed is not limited to a semiconductor wafer . examples of applicable substrates include an lcd substrate , a glass substrate , a cd substrate , a photomask , a printing substrate , a ceramic substrate and the like . according to one aspect of the present invention , even if the cover is opened or shut at the opening portion of the cassette , the clean - air downflow will not be disturbed by the open / shut movement . deficiency in manufactured products due to particles can be reduced . according to another aspect of the present invention , even if the cover is opened or shut at the opening portion of the cassette , the clean - air downflow will not be disturbed . in addition , particles can be prevented from attaching to a substrate in a transfer room and in a process chamber . as a result , deficiency in manufactured products due to particles is successfully prevented . according to still another aspect of the present invention , no particles flow out from the cassette side to the device side . according to a further aspect of the present invention , no particles flow out from the clean room and the cassette to the device side . according to a still further aspect of the present invention , no particles flow out from the transfer room to the process chamber 31a . hereinbelow , a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to fig2 to 27 . in the fourth embodiment , the present invention is applied to a substrate washing process system having a scrubber for brush - washing a semiconductor wafer w . the substrate washing process system comprises a cassette station 401 and a washing process station 402 having a plurality of units . the cassette station 401 comprises mounting portions 414 for mounting airtight containers ( smif pod ) 413 having cassettes c . a plurality of wafers w are stored in each cassette c . in the cassette station 401 , the wafer w is transferred to other system , and to the washing process station 402 , and vice versa . on the mounting portion 414 , three mounting boards are provided . each board has a table 412 for mounting the cassette thereon . below the mounting portion 414 , a wafer - transfer portion 415 ( described later ) is formed . on the side of the washing process portion 402 of the cassette station 401 , a passage 410 is provided in the arrangement direction of the table 412 . the cassette station arm 411 is provided to the passage 410 which moves therealong . the wafer w is transferred from cassette c present in the wafer transfer portion 415 to the washing process station 402 , and vice versa , by means of the cassette station arm 411 . the passage 410 is covered with a cover ( not shown ) and shut out from the atmosphere of the clean room . in the middle of the washing process station 402 , a passage 420 is provided . the passage 420 crosses the passage 410 at a right angle . the washing process station 402 comprises a plurality of units arranged on both sides of the passage 420 . to be more specific , on one side of the passage 420 , two surface washing units 421 and thermal system units 422 are arranged side by side . on the other side of the passage 420 , two rear - surface washing units 423 and reverse - turn units 424 are juxtaposed . the thermal system units 422 consist of four units layered one on top of another . the three units from the above are heating units 425 . the lowermost one is a cooling unit 426 . the reverse - turn units 424 consist of two units . the upper reverse - turn unit 427 plays a part of turning over the wafer w . the lower reverse - turn unit 428 has an alignment mechanism of the wafer w other then the turn - over mechanism of the wafer w . the washing process station 402 has a wafer - transfer mechanism 403 which is movable along the passage 420 . the transfer mechanism 403 has a transfer main arm 403a , rotatable and movable back and forth and up and down . the main arm 403a is responsible for transferring the wafer w to the cassette station arm 411 and to each of units , and vice versa , and further responsible for load / unload of the wafer to each of units . note that the entire system is covered with a wrapping cover ( not shown ). hereinbelow , the cassette station 401 will be explained in detail with reference to fig2 and 24 . the cassette station 401 has a substrate transfer portion 415 in an airtight space 416 below the mounting portion 414 . on the mounting portion 414 , an elevator table 412 is provided for receiving the cassette c accommodated in the airtight container 413 . the airtight container 413 has a lock mechanism ( not shown ) responsible for maintaining the cassette c under airtight conditions . in the cassette c , wafers w are placed horizontally and arranged vertically . when the airtight container 413 is placed on the mounting portion 414 and then the lock mechanism is released , the cassette c is ready to move together with the elevator table 412 to the wafer transfer portion 415 . in this case , the space between the airtight chamber 413 and the box forming the airtight space 416 is maintained airtight . the elevator table 412 is movably supported by the elevator 430 . the cassette c is designed to move up and down by the elevator 430 between the mounting portion 414 and the wafer transfer portion 415 in the airtight space 416 . the elevator 430 comprises a support member 431 for supporting the elevator table 412 , a ball screw 432 for engaging with the support member 431 , a stepping motor 434 for rotating the ball screw 432 , and a guide member 433 . as shown in fig2 , the elevator table 412 is descended by the elevator 430 until the cassette c faces the wafer transfer portion 415 . the wafer w is transferred to the process portion 402 by the cassette station arm 411 . since the passage 410 is covered with a cover 410a , the passage 410 is an airtight space communicable with the airtight space 416 and further communicable with airtight space , passage 420 , as mentioned above . therefore , the wafer w is washed in a series of washing processes without exposed to outer air . above the airtight space 416 , a pushing member 435 is provided for pushing the wafer into the cassette from the wafer transfer side . in the proximity of the pushing member 435 , a light emitting portion 436a and a light receiving portion 436b ( serving as a first detection device ) are provided so as to bridge the surface of the wafer transferred from the cassette c , as shown in fig2 . if there is a wafer wh protruding from the cassette c , the protruding wafer wh intervenes in light traveling from the light emitting portion 436a to the light receiving portion 436b . in this manner , the protruding wafer wh can be detected . to the upper and lower portions on the side of the airtight space 416 from which the cassette is transferred , a light emitting portion 437a and a light receiving portion 437b serving as a second detection device are provided . when the light traveling from the light emitting portion 437a to the light receiving portion 437b is intervened , subsequent movement is immediately stopped . on the back side of the cassette c in the upper portion of the airtight space 416 , a gas supply nozzle 438 is provided . when the cassette c is not present in the airtight container 413 , the airtight container 413 is purged with a non - oxidative gas such as a nitrogen gas supplied from the nozzle 438 to eliminate particles or the like almost completely . the nozzle 438 comprises a nozzle head 439 having a plurality of gas releasing holes 440 arranged along the x - axis and a supporting portion 441 for supporting the nozzle head 439 , as shown in fig2 . hereinbelow , the movement of the above - mentioned device will be explained with reference to fig2 . the airtight container 413 housing a cassette c is loaded into the cassette station 401 and placed on the mounting portion 414 ( s 1 ). after the lock between the airtight container 413 and the cassette c is released , the cassette c is transferred onto the elevator table 412 . the elevator table 412 is then descended by the elevator 430 to the wafer transfer portion 415 of the airtight space 416 ( s 2 ). a nitrogen gas is supplied from the nozzle 438 to purge the airtight container 413 ( s 3 ). while the cassette c is being descended , the position of a wafer is detected by using the first and second sensors 436a , 436b , 437a and 437b . the detection data is input to the process computer and processed therein . this is called &# 34 ; mapping operation &# 34 ; by which the wafer information , such as a wafer pitch and the presence or absence of the wafer in the cassette c are obtained ( s 4 ). the mapping operation is performed to determine whether or not the wafer wh protrudes from the cassette c by cpu ( s 5 ). the second sensors 437a and 437b detect the protruding wafer wh . when the second sensors determine that it is difficult to push back the protruding wafer by use of the pushing member 435 , an alarm is turned on ( s 6 ) and the movement is immediately stopped ( s 7 ). when no protruding wafer wh from the cassette c is detected , cassette c is ascended ( s 8 ). during the ascending step ( s 8 ), if the first sensors 436a and 436b detect the protruding wafer wh ( s 9 ), the ascending of the cassette c is stopped and the pushing member 435 is moved toward the cassette c and pushes the protruding wafer wh into the cassette c ( s 10 ). during the ascending step ( s 8 ), all protruding wafers wh are pushed into the cassette c by the pushing member 435 by checking the wafers w one by one . in this manner , the wafer is successfully prevented from hitting against the upper - wall of the air - tight space 416 while the cassette c is being ascended through the airtight container 413 . therefore , the breakage of the wafer w is successfully prevented . when the cassette c is present in the wafer transfer portion 415 , the wafer w is received by the cassette station arm 411 and transferred to the main arm 403a of the transfer mechanism 403 ( s 11 ). the wafer w on the main arm 403a is then subjected to a series of washing processes according to a predetermined recipe . first , the surface of the wafer w is washed with a brush in the surface washing unit 421 ( s 12 ). subsequently , the wafer w is turned over by the reverse - turn unit 427 or 428 . the rear surface of the wafer w is washed with a brush in the rear surface washing unit 423 . thereafter , the wafer is turned over by means of the reverse - turn unit 427 or 428 . if necessary , the washed wafer w is dried with heat in the heating unit 425 ( s 13 ), and cooled in the cooling unit 426 ( s 14 ). after a series of processing are completed , the wafer w is transferred from the main arm 403a to the cassette station arm 411 and housed in the cassette c present in the wafer transfer portion 415 by the arm 411 ( s 15 ). the same processing is performed with respect to a predetermined number of wafers w . when the predetermined number of wafers w are processed and housed in the cassette c , the cassette c is ascended ( s 16 ) and returned to the airtight container 413 on the mounting portion 414 . the cassette c is locked in the airtight container 413 . the airtight container 413 containing the cassette c is transferred outside of the system ( s 17 ). the present invention is not limited to the above - mentioned embodiments . modification of the present invention may be made in various ways . in the above - mentioned embodiments , we explained the example in which the present invention is applied to the washing unit . the present invention may be used in a unit in which other processing other than the washing is made , for example , a resist - coating and developing unit . the present invention may be effective not only when processing carried out in an airtight system but also when a substrate may hit against something or may be caught by something during the movement of a cassette . the present invention may be applied to various transfer units other than the process units . the substrate to be used in the present invention is not limited to the semiconductor wafer . examples of the substrate include an lcd substrate , glass substrate , cd substrate , photomask , printing substrate and the like . as explained in the foregoing , the present invention makes it possible to prevent the breakage of the substrate when the cassette is returned to the substrate transfer portion to the mounting portion , thereby attaining an extremely high yield of the wafers since a protruding substrate is checked by the detection means while the cassette is being moved from the transfer portion to the mounting portion , and the detected protruding substrate is pushed back by the pushing means . additional advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art . therefore , the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described herein . accordingly , various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalent . | US-90805697-A |
a fixed - center constant velocity joint has a race located concentrically to a rotational first axis , and a ring - shaped cage located concentrically to a rotational second axis . both the race and the cage are centered to a common center point lying on the first and second axes regardless of the angular state of the joint . a spherical surface carried by the race radially opposes a spherical face carried by the cage for angular movement with respect to the center point . the surface and face are in close or contacting relationship to prevent telescoping movement with respect to the first and second axes . | as illustrated in fig1 - 3 and 5 , the present invention is a self - retained and fixed - center constant velocity joint 20 preferably of a ball - type . the joint 20 has an inner race 22 connected rigidly and disposed concentrically to an end of a first shaft ( not shown ) that rotates about a first axis 24 . the inner race 22 is generally surrounded circumferentially by a cage 26 that rotates about a second axis 27 , and the cage 26 is surrounded circumferentially by an outer race 28 . the outer race 28 is connected rigidly to a second shaft ( not shown ) that rotates about a third axis 30 . preferably , eight balls 29 are located radially between the inner and outer races 22 , 28 and spaced circumferentially from one another with respect to axes 24 , 30 . for the sake of explanation and with respect to the figures , a forward direction is illustrated by arrow 32 and a rearward direction is illustrated by arrow 34 ( as best shown in fig1 ). referring to fig1 , 4 , 5 and 6 , the inner race 22 preferably has an annular forward wall 36 and an opposite annular rearward wall 38 each having a generally circular and radially outward perimeter 40 . a circumferentially extending outward surface 44 of the inner race 22 is generally spherical and spans contiguously from and axially ( with respect to axis 24 ) between the outward perimeters 40 of the forward and rearward walls 36 , 38 . the spherical outward surface 44 has a forward portion 46 , an apex portion 48 and a rearward portion 50 that all extend circumferentially with the apex portion 48 being located axially directly between the forward and rearward portions 46 , 50 . the forward portion 46 spans axially and contiguously rearward from the forward perimeter 40 , and diverges radially outward to the apex portion 48 . similarly , the rearward portion 50 spans axially and contiguously forward from the rearward perimeter 40 of the rearward wall 38 , and diverges radially outward to the apex portion 48 . apex portion 48 may be a continuation of the spherical shape of the outward surface 44 or may be cylindrical in shape . generally , a cross section of inner race 22 taken through an imaginary plane co - extending with axis 24 illustrates a convex profile of the outward surface 44 . that is , the forward and rearward portions 46 have a circular profile with the apex portion 48 continuing the circular profile or in the alternative with the apex portion having a flat or plateau - like profile ( i . e . if cylindrical ). for the sake of explanation , relationships between the races 22 , 28 and cage 26 are in - part expressed in axial diameters and spherical diameters . an axial diameter is that distance along a line that lies in an imaginary plane orientated perpendicular to a respective rotation axis . a spherical diameter is that distance along a line that extends through a common center point 110 of both the inner race 22 and the cage 26 . with this definition , the perimeters 40 of the inner race 22 have axial diameters 42 . the generally circular apex portion 48 thus has an axial diameter 52 that is greater than the diameter 42 of the forward and rearward perimeters 40 ( as best shown in fig4 ). if the apex portion 48 is spherical and not cylindrical , the axial diameter 52 is equivalent in distance to a spherical diameter 53 of the forward and rearward portions 46 , 50 of the outer surface 44 . the axial diameter 42 of the perimeter 40 is the minimum axial diameter of the outward surface 44 and the diameter 52 of the apex portion 48 is the maximum axial diameter of the surface 44 . referring to fig6 and 7 , the inner race 22 preferably has eight or a series of grooves 54 that longitudinally extend axially with respect to axis 24 and communicate radially outward through the outward surface 44 . for compact construction of the joint 20 , each one of the series of grooves 54 also communicate through the forward and rearward perimeters 40 , thus generally making the perimeters circumferentially discontinuous . each groove of the series of grooves 54 is spaced circumferentially from the next adjacent one of the series of grooves 54 . preferably , the series of grooves 54 have four longitudinal grooves 56 that extend parallel to axis 24 , two helical clockwise grooves 58 that slightly spiral or angle in a clockwise direction as the grooves 58 longitudinally extend axially rearward ( i . e . rearward direction / arrow 34 ), and two helical counter - clockwise grooves 60 that slightly spiral or angle in a counter - clockwise direction as the grooves 60 longitudinally extend axially rearward . the spiraling affect of the grooves 58 , 60 may not be truly helical in shape , and instead may be simply angled with respect to the longitudinal grooves 58 and as best illustrated in fig7 . each longitudinal groove 56 is circumferentially adjacent to a clockwise groove 58 on one side and a counter - clockwise groove 60 on the opposite side . moreover , each helical or angled groove 58 , 60 is located circumferentially between two longitudinal grooves 56 of the series of grooves 54 . the longitudinal grooves 56 are preferably spaced angularly by about ninety degrees from one another . as best illustrated in fig7 , each angled groove 58 , 60 is inclined with respect to the adjacent longitudinal grooves 56 by respective positive and negative angles represented by arrows 62 , 64 . the absolute magnitude of the angles or arrows 62 , 64 are about or preferably are equal to one another . referring to fig1 and 8 - 9 , the outer race 28 has an annular forward wall 66 and an opposite annular rearward wall 68 , both disposed substantially perpendicular to axis 30 . a circumferentially extending inner surface 70 of the outer race 28 spans laterally in an axial direction ( with respect to axis 30 ) between the forward and rearward walls 66 , 68 . the outer race 28 preferably has eight channels or grooves 72 that longitudinally extend axially with respect to axis 30 and communicate laterally inward ( i . e . radially inward with respect to axis 30 ) through the inner surface 70 . each channel of the series of channels 72 is associated with a respective one of the series of grooves 54 , and is thus spaced circumferentially from the next adjacent one of the series of channels 72 . preferably , the series of channels 72 have four longitudinal channels 74 that extend parallel to axis 30 , two helical clockwise channels 76 that slightly spiral or angle in a clockwise direction as the channels 76 longitudinally extend axially rearward ( i . e . rearward direction / arrow 34 ), and two helical counter - clockwise channels 78 that slightly spiral or angle in a counter - clockwise direction as the channels 78 longitudinally extend axially rearward . the spiraling affect of the channels 76 , 78 may not be truly helical in shape , and instead may be simply angled with respect to the longitudinal grooves 58 and as best illustrated in fig9 . each longitudinal channel 74 is circumferentially adjacent to a clockwise channel 76 on one side and a counter - clockwise channel 78 on the opposite side . moreover , each helical or angled channel 76 , 78 is located circumferentially between two longitudinal channels 74 of the series of channels 72 . the longitudinal channels 74 are preferably spaced angularly by about ninety degrees from one another . as best illustrated in fig9 , each angled channel 76 , 78 is inclined with respect to the adjacent longitudinal channels 74 by respective positive and negative angles 80 , 82 . preferably , absolute magnitude of the angles 80 , 82 are equal to one another and equal to the absolute magnitude of angles 62 , 64 . when the joint 20 is assembled , each one of the longitudinal grooves 56 of the inner race 22 is circumferentially aligned to a respective one of the longitudinal channels 74 of the outer race 28 , thereby forming a passage for travel of a respective one of the balls 29 . similarly , each one of the clockwise grooves 58 is aligned circumferentially to a respective one of the counter - clockwise channels 78 , and each one of the counter - clockwise grooves 60 is aligned circumferentially to a respective one of the clockwise channels 76 all respectively forming passages for travel of respective balls 29 . the inclined or cross groove passages create a constant velocity plane when the joint 20 is angled . the degree of incline of clockwise and counter - clockwise grooves can be smaller than that of a standard 6 - ball joint design . the straight or longitudinal passages and cross grooved passages cooperate to allow a greater stroke than a joint that has inclined grooves . in addition , reduction of the helix angle of the helical grooves decreases the contact stresses in the grooves / channels and the forces transmitted to the cage 26 disposed between the inner and outer races 22 , 28 . cross groove passages are discussed in greater detail in u . s . pat . no . 6 , 468 , 164 , which is incorporated herein by reference . referring to fig1 - 5 and 10 - 12 , the cage 26 of the joint 20 preferably has four short windows 86 and four long windows 88 . all of the windows 86 , 88 are elongated circumferentially with respect to axis 27 and communicate radially through the cage 26 . each one of the short windows 86 is associated with ( i . e . adjacent to ) a respective one of the longitudinal grooves 56 and each one of the long windows 88 is associated with a respective one of the helical or angled grooves 58 , 60 in the inner race 22 . preferably , the width of the short and long windows 86 , 88 are about the same , and are slightly greater than the diameter of the balls 29 for minimizing internal friction of the joint 20 . one skilled in the art , however , would now know that if the diameter of the ball 29 is greater than the width of the windows 86 , 88 , the cage 26 may generally lock or trap the balls 29 to the inner race 22 . this alternative embodiment , however , would preferably have a frictionless or friction reducing interface between the balls 29 and the cage 26 for smooth operation of the joint 20 . the short windows 86 are defined by a continuous wall 90 having opposing side segments 92 and flanking or opposing end segments 94 . the side segments 92 are substantially parallel to one another , extend circumferentially with respect to axis 27 , and define the width of the window 86 . the opposing end segments 94 preferably have a radius of curvature 95 equal to about half the width of window 86 . similarly , the long windows 88 are defined by a continuous wall 96 having opposing side segments 98 and flanking or opposing end segments 100 . the side segments 98 are substantially parallel to one another , extend circumferentially with respect to axis 27 , and define the width of the window 88 . the opposing end segments 100 preferably have a radius of curvature 101 that even when doubled is substantially less than the width of window 88 . preferably , the width of window 88 is about equal to four time the radius of curvature 101 of the end segments 100 . the large radius of curvature of the end segments 94 of continuous wall 90 of short windows 86 provides structural integrity and strength to the cage 26 . the cage 26 is generally ring - shaped having a spherical inner face 102 that extends circumferentially and faces radially inward . an opposite outer face 104 of the cage 26 faces radially outward and is preferably substantially spherical . the continuous walls 90 , 96 defining the windows span laterally between and form contiguously into the inner and outer faces 102 , 104 . the inner and outer faces 102 , 104 preferably have respective spherical diameters 106 , 108 that both cross through the center point 110 , common to both the inner race 22 and the cage 26 ( as best shown in fig1 ). the inner face 102 thus has a concave profile and the outer face 104 has a convex profile when a cross section is taken along an imaginary plane that co - extends with the axis 27 . the inner face 102 of the cage 26 spans laterally ( i . e . axially with respect to axis 27 ) between forward and rearward rims 112 , 114 having substantially equal axial diameters 116 ( see fig4 and 5 ) and the spherical diameter 106 ( i . e . extending from rim 112 and through center point 110 to rim 114 ). to achieve the retaining feature of the joint 20 when the apex portion 48 has the plateau profile ( not shown ), the axial diameter 116 of the rims 112 , 114 is less than the axial diameter 52 of the apex portion 48 of the outer surface 44 of the inner race 22 . to prevent telescoping movement of the joint generally along or with respect to axes 24 , 27 ( i . e . thus self centering the joint ), the spherical diameter 53 of the outer surface 44 of the inner race 22 is about equal to or only slightly less than the spherical diameter 106 of the inner face 102 of the cage 26 . preferably , if the spherical diameters 53 , 106 are generally equal , the inner race 22 and cage 26 are made of or coated with a friction reducing material . during operation , the joint 20 moves from a linear state 118 , as best shown in fig4 , to an angled state 124 , as best shown in fig5 . when the joint 20 is in the linear state 118 , preferably all three axes 24 , 27 , 30 co - extend to one - another , and thus do not intersect . that is , the inner race 22 , the cage 26 and the outer race 28 are substantially concentric to one - another and with respect to the common center point 110 . as best shown in fig5 , when the joint 20 is in the angled state 124 , the axis 24 of the inner race 22 and the axis 27 of the cage 26 and the axis 30 of the outer race 28 will intersect at center point 110 . moreover and when angled , the axis 24 of the inner race 22 is angled with respect to axis 27 of the cage 26 by a negative angular displacement represented by arrow 134 and the axis 30 of the outer race 28 is angled with respect to axis 27 by a positive angular displacement represented by arrow 136 . the absolute magnitude of angular displacements 134 , 136 are about or preferably equal to one another . while the forms of the invention herein disclosed constitute presently preferred embodiments , many others are possible . for instance , the outer race 28 may be fixed - center to the cage 26 instead of the inner race 22 and in a similar manner . it is not intended herein to mention all the possible equivalent forms or ramification of the invention . it is understood that terms used herein are merely descriptive , rather than limiting , and that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention . | US-82712707-A |
landing gear for selectively supporting a semitrailer and a method of assembly of the landing gear is provided . the landing gear includes a leg having an upper section and a lower section telescopingly received in the upper section . a lead screw extends and retracts the upper and lower sections relative to each other upon rotation thereof . an input shaft applies a torque to the lead screw to drive rotation thereof , the input shaft being rotatable about a rotation axis and movable in translation along the rotation axis for shifting between a first position for low gear operation and a second position for high gear operation . an output shaft , axially aligned with the input shaft , has an output gear for transmitting torque to the lead screw . a gearing subassembly is received in the upper leg section and is configured to augment lift when the input shaft is in the first position and augment speed in the second position . | fig1 illustrates landing gear , indicated generally at 10 , for the support of semitrailers when not attached to a tractor . the landing gear 10 typically includes a pair of legs 11 ( only one leg is shown ) located near respective front corners of a semitrailer 12 . each leg 11 is capable of extending to engage the pavement s or other supporting surface to hold up the front end of the semitrailer as is well understood in the art . a shoe 14 of the landing gear 10 is pivotally mounted on the leg 11 for engaging the pavement s . the legs 11 are also capable of retracting to move up out of the way when the semitrailer 12 is being pulled over the road by a tractor ( not shown ). a crank handle 16 is used to extend and contract the length of the leg 11 , as will be described below . the following description is confined to one of the legs 11 . the other leg ( not shown ) has a similar construction , but if it is connected to gearing of the illustrated leg such as by an output shaft extending underneath the front of the semitrailer 12 , the other leg need not have some of the gearing present in the illustrated leg . such constructions are well understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and will not be further described herein . referring to fig2 - 5 , the landing gear leg 11 includes a lower leg section 13 ( fig5 ) telescopingly received in an upper leg section 15 . the lower leg section 13 is a steel square tube . the upper leg section 15 is preferably a square tube made of steel or other like material . the upper leg section 15 has internal dimensions larger than that of the lower leg section 13 so that the lower leg section is telescopingly received in the upper leg section . the lower and upper leg sections 13 , 15 could also have other cross sectional shapes , such as rectangular , round or the like . in an alternate version , the upper leg section is a steel channel having an open front side extending the length of the upper leg section . a mounting plate 17 for attaching the leg 11 to the trailer 12 is attached by bolts and / or welding to the upper leg section 15 . holes 17 a in the mounting plate 17 may receive fasteners ( not shown ) for attaching the leg 11 to the trailer 12 . the leg 11 can be attached to the trailer in either a “ conventional mount ” and “ reverse mount ”. these labels will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and will not be discussed further . fig5 illustrates that the upper leg section 15 has two u - shaped cutouts 18 , 20 extending axially downward from the upper end of the upper leg section on opposite sides of the upper leg section . in the final assembly , the cutouts 18 and 20 are closed by an outside cover plate 19 and an inside cover plate 21 , respectively . for illustrative purposes , with the conventionally mounted leg 11 , the “ outside ” cover plate 19 faces out to the side of the semitrailer and the “ inside ” cover plate 21 faces in toward the center of the semitrailer . the upper leg section 15 is formed with two pockets 22 extending outward from the upper leg section on opposite sides of the upper leg section . the pockets 22 are formed on the sides of the upper leg section that do not have the cutouts 18 , 20 . the pockets 22 are sized to accommodate an idler gear as will be described below . the lower and upper leg sections 13 , 15 are connected together by a lead screw 23 ( only the very upper portion of which is illustrated in fig5 ) for extension and retraction of the lower leg section 13 relative to the upper leg section 15 upon rotation of the lead screw . the lead screw 23 has a bevel gear 25 mounted on its upper end for use in driving the lead screw as will be described . the landing gear leg 11 includes an input shaft 27 received through the outside cover plate 19 into the leg and an output shaft 31 received through the inside cover plate 21 of the leg . the input shaft 27 and output shaft 31 are connected together a subassembly 32 further including gearing as will be described below . more specifically , the gearing subassembly 32 is preferably constructed and arranged to fit substantially within the cross sectional area of the upper leg section 15 . in one embodiment , the output shaft 31 would extend to the aforementioned other leg ( not shown ) of the landing gear to drive the rotation of the lead screw in that leg . the crank handle 16 ( fig1 ) is preferably attached to the outer end of the input shaft 27 for manually applying torque to rotate the input shaft . assembly of the landing gear leg 11 may performed by dropping the top cover 47 and associated components of the subassembly 32 onto the open top of the upper leg section 15 . thus , in one preferred embodiment , the gearing components of the subassembly , such as the idler shafts , the output gear , the pinion gear and the large diameter input gear , as will be described below , are all received within the upper leg section 15 . the input shaft 27 passes through the cutout 18 on the outside of the upper leg section 15 and the output shaft 31 passes through the cutout 20 on the inside of the upper leg section . cover plate bolts extend through holes in respective cover plates 19 , 21 and into the top cover 47 to secure the subassembly 32 to the leg 11 . the cover plates 19 , 21 may also be welded to the upper section 15 and / or a gasket ( not shown ) may be provided between the cover plate ( 19 , 21 ) and upper section . preferably , the leg 11 is constructed selectively for either conventional mounting on a semitrailer or reverse mounting by turning the subassembly 32 to the upper section 15 through 180 degrees . nothing else about the construction of the leg changes , which simplifies manufacturing . it maybe seen that the upper end of the upper leg section 15 has the opposite laterally outwardly formed pockets 22 . in addition , the front side of the upper leg section 15 has an outwardly formed portion 24 . the pockets 22 provide space for the gears of the idler shafts ( not shown ) without regard to the orientation of the subassembly 32 . the outwardly formed portion 24 keeps the distance from a center of the upper section 15 to the respective cutouts 18 , 20 equal . thus , a beveled pinion gear member ( described below with reference to fig9 ) in the subassembly 32 will mesh with the bevel gear 25 at the top of the lead screw 23 no matter which direction the top cover subassembly is oriented . fig5 shows the top cover subassembly 32 oriented for both conventional mount and for reverse mount . in either orientation , the subassembly 32 can be dropped into the open top of the upper leg section 15 for assembling the leg 11 . fig6 illustrates a mounting plate 17 ′ used with an upper leg portion ( not shown ) shaped as a channel and is configured to cover the open front side of the upper leg portion . fig7 and 8 illustrate a modified version of an upper section 15 ″ of a landing gear leg having the shape of a square tube . the upper section 15 ″ has a mounting plate 17 ″ attached thereto . the upper end of the upper section 15 ″ is belled outwardly to form pockets 22 ″ and outwardly formed portions 24 ″. the pockets 22 ″ and outwardly formed portions 24 ″ extend over a substantial portion of the width of their respective side walls . otherwise , the construction of the upper section 15 ″ is substantially the same as upper section 15 . the upper leg section 15 at its upper end is symmetrical about a central plane p . fig9 - 16 illustrate a subassembly , generally designated at 32 , and parts thereof separately and in combination with the leg 11 . referring to fig9 and 10 , the subassembly 32 comprises a single idler shaft 45 ( fig1 ) for mechanically connecting the input shaft 27 with the output shaft 31 . the input shaft 27 is received through a bearing 29 in the outside cover plate 19 into the leg 11 and the output shaft 31 is received through a bearing 33 in the inside cover plate 21 of the leg . the top cover 47 has been removed from fig9 for clarity . the inner end of the input shaft 27 has a reduced diameter and is received and borne in an axial opening of an output gear 35 of the output shaft 31 for free rotation relative to the output gear and for axial movement relative to the output gear . alternately , the output shaft has a reduced diameter end portion ( not shown ) which is received in an axial opening in the input shaft , or the shafts could be supported independently of each other . thus , the input and output shafts 27 , 31 are coaxial . the bearing 29 supporting the input shaft 27 in the outside cover plate 19 permits the input shaft to both rotate and move axially relative to the bearing . as to axial movement , a ball and spring mechanism ( not shown ) is provided to engage the bearing 29 to releasably lock the input shaft 27 in two axial positions , corresponding to low gear ( fig1 ) and high gear ( fig1 ), respectively . the input shaft 27 carries a pinion gear 37 which is pinned to the reduced diameter portion of the input shaft for conjoint rotation with the input shaft . it is contemplated that the pinion gear 37 could be formed as one piece with the input shaft 27 . the pinion gear 37 has a small diameter , and has a first set of gear teeth 38 and a second set of gear teeth 40 . the input shaft 27 also mounts a large diameter input gear 39 for free rotation relative to the input shaft , except as will be described , but which is held from movement along the axis of the input shaft relative to the upper leg section 15 . a central , internally toothed opening 42 of the input gear 39 has a diameter which is larger than the input shaft 27 for receiving a part of the pinion gear 37 into the central opening . the large diameter input gear 39 includes a flat central portion 46 and an angled outer portion 48 . this construction permits the large diameter gear 39 to fit closely against the outside cover plate 19 and between the outside cover plate and the bevel gear 25 of the lead screw 23 . the annular outer portion 48 of the large diameter gear 39 angles outwardly and has teeth formed therein for meshing with another gear as will be described . the output gear 35 is pinned to the output shaft 31 for conjoint rotation . the output gear 35 includes first gear member 41 which receives input torque to drive the gear and a second beveled pinion gear member 43 which is meshed with the bevel gear 25 of the lead screw 23 . the first gear member 41 is substantially planar and fits close against the inside cover plate 21 and between the bevel gear 25 and the cover plate . as illustrated , the output gear 35 is formed as a single piece of tubular material . however , it may be formed from multiple pieces which are separated and secured to a common tube , or directly to the output shaft 31 . driving connection of the input shaft 27 with the output gear 35 is achieved by way of an idler shaft 45 having three idler gears formed as one piece with the shaft . it would be possible to form the gears separately from the shaft and connect them to the shaft . as shown in fig1 and 12 , the idler shaft 45 is supported for rotation within the upper leg section 15 by a top cover 47 . in certain statements of the present invention , the top cover 47 may be considered to be a “ bearing member ”. the top cover will be described more fully hereinafter . a first idler gear 49 has the smallest diameter of the gears on the idler shaft and is permanently meshed with the large diameter input gear 39 . a second idler gear 51 has the largest diameter and is located generally in the middle of the idler shaft 45 for selective engagement with the teeth 40 of the pinion gear 37 of the input shaft 27 . a third idler gear 53 located at the far left end of the idler shaft 45 has a diameter between that of the first and second idler gears and is permanently meshed with the first gear member 41 of the output gear 35 . referring to fig1 and 15 , a top cover 47 of the single idler landing gear leg 11 is formed to rotatably mount the idler shaft 45 . preferably , it is not necessary to have additional openings in the exterior of the leg 11 through which rotating shafts are received , which are prime locations for leaking lubricant . the top cover 47 is made either partially or entirely of a polymeric material such as nylon . however , it is contemplated that the top cover 47 may be made of other suitable materials , such as a ductile iron casting or aluminum casting , without departing from the scope of the present invention . it is believed no separate bearings will be necessary if the top cover 47 is made of nylon or a like material . in one version , side flange 70 of the top cover 47 has openings 72 therein for receiving bolts or screws to secure the cover plate 19 ( see fig1 ) to the top cover . the top cover has a first outwardly formed pocket 74 extending from a top surface 75 thereof . the pocket 74 provides space for receiving the second idler gear 51 ( see fig1 ). the top cover 47 also has a second outwardly formed pocket 76 extending from the top surface 75 for receiving the third idler gear 53 . side flange 78 of the top cover 47 has openings ( not shown ) therein for receiving bolts or screws to secure the cover plate 21 ( see fig1 ) to the top cover . referring now to fig1 , the top cover 47 includes a first yoke 81 which receives a section of the idler shaft 45 between the first idler gear 49 and the second idler gear 51 , and a second yoke 83 which receives a section of the idler shaft between the second idler gear and the third idler gear 53 . the first and second yokes 81 , 83 each have a lower portion 81 a , 83 a which can be separated from an upper portion 81 b , 83 b to place the idler shaft 45 in the top cover 47 . bolts 84 may be used to connect the lower portions 81 a , 83 a to respective upper portions 81 b , 83 b . the gearing subassembly 32 , top cover 47 , outside cover plate 19 , inside cover plate 21 , input shaft 27 , and output shaft 31 may be subassembled and dropped into the upper leg section 15 as shown in fig5 . referring again to fig1 and 12 , the operation of the landing gear is as follows . assuming the lower leg section 13 ( fig2 ) is retracted into the upper leg section 15 and is to be extended , the driver first moves the input shaft 27 axially outwardly to the position shown in fig1 . in this position , the pinion gear 37 is partially received in the central opening 42 of the large diameter input gear 39 . the use of a small pinion gear 37 is adopted from co - assigned u . s . pat . no . 4 , 187 , 733 , the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference . the first set of teeth 38 on the right side of the pinion gear 37 mesh with the internal teeth of the large diameter gear 39 so that the large diameter gear is now fixed for conjoint rotation with the input shaft 27 . thus , the engagement of the large diameter gear 39 with the first idler gear 49 is a driving engagement . as is understood by those of ordinary skill in the art , the idler shaft 45 will be rotated more rapidly than the input shaft 27 . the torque is transmitted by the idler shaft 45 to the third gear 53 meshed with the first gear member 41 of the output gear 35 for driving the output gear at a rotational rate which is greater than that of the input shaft 27 . for example and not by way of limitation , if the ratio of teeth of the larger diameter gear 39 to that of the first idler gear 49 is 31t / 7t and the ratio of teeth on the second idler gear 53 to the first output gear member 41 is 13t / 25t , the output shaft rotates 2 . 3 times faster than the input shaft . the ratio of the turns of the crank handle 16 ( see fig1 ) per inch of travel of the lower leg section 13 for this version is 1 . 97 . in this way , the lower leg section 13 can be more rapidly extended from the upper leg section 15 for bringing the leg into contact with the pavement s . once the leg 11 contacts the pavement , it will be necessary to increase the mechanical advantage provided by the gearing to lift the semitrailer 12 ( fig1 ) off of the fifth wheel of the tractor ( not shown ). to do this , the driver moves the input shaft 27 axially inwardly so that the pinion gear 37 moves out of the central opening 42 of the large diameter input gear 39 and into engagement with the teeth of the second idler gear 51 ( as shown in fig1 ). the large diameter input gear 39 , although still meshed with the first gear 49 of the idler shaft 45 does not transmit any torque from the input shaft 27 and does not rotate conjointly with the input shaft . the second set of teeth 40 on the left side of the pinion gear 37 mesh with the teeth of the second idler gear 51 . it will be readily apparent that rotation of the input shaft 27 will be substantially reduced by the second idler gear 51 , producing an accompanying increase in torque . the higher torque is transmitted by the third idler gear 53 to the first gear member 41 of the output gear 35 , achieving a further ( or “ double ”) reduction . now rotation of the input shaft 27 produces extension of the lower leg section 13 at a slower rate , but with greater lift to raise the semitrailer 12 and its load . fig1 illustrates another version of the single idler landing gear leg 111 , where corresponding parts are indicated by the same reference numeral , but with the prefix “ 1 ”. an idler shaft 145 is supported by bushings associated with outside and inside cover plates 119 , 121 rather than being supported by the top cover . in this embodiment , the top cover 147 is not used to support the idler shaft 145 . otherwise , the construction is substantially identical to fig9 and will not be further described herein . referring again to fig1 , it may be seen that the idler shaft 145 has a reduced diameter stub 185 at the right end thereof and an enlarged diameter portion 187 at its left end . the stub 185 is journaled in a bushing 189 which is fitted into an opening formed in the outside cover plate 121 for rotation of the idler shaft 145 . the bushing 189 blocks the opening to assist in sealing the leg 11 . a short axle 191 is received through an opening in the inside cover plate 121 and into a recess in the enlarged diameter portion 187 of the idler shaft to mount the idler shaft 145 for rotation . the axle 191 is sealably secured to the inside cover plate 121 , such as by welding . the fitted bushing 189 and the short axle 191 mount the idler shaft 145 for rotation between the outside and inside cover plates 119 , 121 . thus , there is no moving part extending through the outside and inside cover plates 119 , 121 . thus , although the idler shaft 145 is supported from the sides of the leg 11 , it does not extend through the sides . accordingly , a prime site for the leakage of lubricant ( through a rotating shaft bearing ) is eliminated . some examples of possible high gear and low gear ratios for the single idler leg 11 are listed below in turns of the crank handle 16 per inch of travel of the leg . fig1 - 25 collectively show a landing gear leg 211 and components thereof , of another embodiment . corresponding parts are indicated by the same reference numeral as for the landing gear leg 11 , but with the prefix “ 2 ”. fig1 and 18 illustrate a gearing subassembly 232 and a top cover 247 of the dual idler shaft landing gear leg 211 . the subassembly comprises a dedicated low gear idler shaft 257 ( fig2 a and 22b ) and a separate , dedicated high gear idler shaft 263 ( fig2 a and 23b ) for mechanically connecting an input shaft 227 with an output shaft 231 . the input shaft 227 is received through a bearing 229 in an outside cover plate 219 into the leg 211 and the output shaft 231 is received through a bearing 233 in an inside cover plate 221 of the leg . a top cover 247 is formed to rotatably mount both the low gear idler shaft 257 and the high gear idler shaft 263 in the dual idler landing gear leg 211 . preferably , it is not necessary to have additional openings in the exterior of the leg 211 through which rotating shafts are received , and which are prime locations for leaking lubricant . fig1 and 20 illustrates that the input shaft 227 and output shaft 231 are co - axial and a reduced diameter inner end of the input shaft is received and borne within the output shaft . alternately , an output shaft has a reduced diameter end portion which is received in an axial opening in the input shaft ( not shown ). the bearing 229 supporting the input shaft 227 in the outside cover plate 219 permits the input shaft to both rotate and move axially relative to the bearing . as to axial movement , a ball and spring mechanism ( not shown ) is provided to engage the bearing 229 to releasably lock the input shaft 227 in two axial positions , corresponding to high gear and low gear , respectively . the subassembly 232 is shown in the high gear position in fig1 and in the low gear position in fig2 . it is noted that a pinion gear 237 is formed as one piece with the input shaft 227 and an output gear 235 is formed as one piece with the output shaft 231 . it will be appreciated that the pinion gear 237 and output gear 235 may be formed separately from their respective shafts ( 227 , 231 ). the pinion gear 237 contains a first set of teeth 238 and a second set of teeth 240 . a large diameter input gear 239 is somewhat smaller than the large diameter gear 39 of the first embodiment and is entirely planar , but is similarly mounted for free rotation on the input shaft 227 except when engaged by the first set of teeth 238 of the pinion gear 237 . the output gear 235 differs from the single idler output gear configuration by having a third , small diameter gear member 244 . more specifically , the dual idler landing gear leg includes a low gear idler shaft 257 including a large diameter first gear 259 engageable by the pinion gear 237 for driving the rotation of the low gear idler shaft , and a second small diameter gear 261 permanently meshed with the first gear member 241 of the output gear 235 . a separate high gear idler shaft 263 includes a first high gear idler gear 265 permanently meshed with the large diameter input gear 239 , and a second high gear idler gear 267 permanently meshed with the third gear member 244 of the output gear 235 . accordingly , it is not necessary to balance speed in high gear against torque in low gear . the separate , dedicated idler shafts 257 , 263 decouple these design features . as shown in fig2 , the axis a 1 of the low gear idler shaft 257 and the axis a 2 of the high gear idler shaft 263 are offset on opposite sides of a vertical plane p including the common axis of rotation a 3 of the input and output shafts 227 , 231 . preferably , the offset is as small as necessary to permit the gears of both idler shafts 257 , 263 to mesh with the coaxially arranged gears ( 235 , 237 , 239 ) of the input and output shafts 227 , 231 . the operation of the dual idler landing gear leg 211 is similar to the operation of the embodiment of the single idler landing gear 11 shown in fig5 , except that different idler shafts 257 , 263 are used for low and high gear . in high gear , the first set of teeth 238 of the pinion gear 237 is partially received in the large diameter input gear 239 so that the large diameter gear rotates conjointly with the input shaft 227 ( fig1 ). it will be appreciated that the high gear idler shaft 263 rotates faster than the input shaft 227 . for example , with 19 teeth on the large diameter input gear 239 and 9 teeth on the high gear idler gear 265 , the idler shaft 263 rotates 2 . 11 times as fast as the input shaft 227 . the rotational speed is again increased by the second high gear idler gear 267 meshed with the third gear member 244 of the output gear . the low gear idler shaft 257 turns but does not transfer any torque in this configuration . for low speed , high torque operation the input shaft 227 is moved axially to the left so that the large diameter input gear 239 is disengaged and the second set of teeth 240 on the other end of the pinion gear 237 mesh with the first low gear idler gear 259 ( fig2 ). the input shaft torque is now transferred by the low gear idler shaft 257 to the output gear by way of the second low gear idler gear 261 and the first gear member 241 of the output gear 235 . a substantial reduction is achieved both from the input shaft 227 to the low gear idler shaft 257 and from the low gear idler shaft to the output gear 235 by virtue of the relative sides of the meshed gears . preferably , the numerical values given in the range have units of turns of the crank per inch of travel of the leg are between 1 . 02 and 4 . 5 in high gear and 26 and 44 in low gear . however , one skilled in the art will understand that any combination of low and high ratios is possible . preferably , the dual idler leg 211 provides good lift in low gear ( e . g ., 35 turns per inch ), and an option for high gear . for example , the high gear could be either 1 . 02 or 4 . 5 , with minimal change of gears and other components necessary to provide the desired high gear ratio . as set forth above with respect to the single idler embodiment , the top cover 247 is preferably made of a polymeric material such as nylon . however , it may be made of other suitable materials , such as a ductile iron casting or aluminum casting , without departing from the scope of the present invention . it is believed no separate bearings will be necessary if the top cover 247 is made of nylon or a like material . the input and output shafts 227 , 231 are also supported by the top cover 247 in a first yoke 269 depending from the top cover . a second yoke 271 is provided for supporting one end of the low gear idler shaft 257 and a third yoke 273 is provided to support one end of the high gear idler shaft 263 . fig2 and 25 illustrate the top cover 247 of the double idler landing gear leg 211 which mounts the idler shafts 257 , 263 for rotation . it may be seen that each yoke 269 , 271 , 273 ( broadly , “ bearing member ”) includes a respective removable lower portion 269 a , 271 a , 273 a which is attached to an upper portion 269 b , 271 b , 273 b by a respective pair of bolts . it is also envisioned that the top cover 247 and yokes 269 , 271 , 273 may be made as a single , unitary piece . in that event , the idler shafts 257 , 263 would be made in two pieces ( not shown ) to permit their insertion into holes in the yokes 269 , 271 , 273 . after insertion the two pieces of the idler shaft would be connected together . in the illustrated embodiments , the first yoke 269 has three holes , including a first hole 275 a which receives the output shaft 231 , a second hole 275 b which receives the low gear idler shaft 257 and a third hole 275 c which receives the high gear idler shaft 263 . the second yoke 271 has a single hole 277 for another portion of the low gear idler shaft 257 and the third yoke 273 similarly has a single hole 279 for receiving another portion of the high gear idler shaft 263 . the output shaft 231 is received in the first hole 275 a of the first yoke 269 and is supportingly engaged by the first yoke . to place the idler shafts 257 , 263 in the first , second and third yokes ( 269 , 271 , 273 ), the lower portions ( 269 a , 271 a , 273 a ) of the yokes are removed , opening up the second and third holes 275 b , 275 c of the first yoke and the holes 277 , 279 of the second and third yokes . the low gear idler shaft 257 is placed on the top cover 247 ( which is preferably inverted for assembly ) so that a section of the shaft adjacent to the first low gear idler gear 259 is received in the exposed portion of the second hole 275 b of the upper portion 269 b of the first yoke 269 still associated with the top cover . at the same time , a section of the low gear idler shaft 257 nearer the second low gear idler gear 261 is received in the portion of the hole 277 in the upper portion 271 a of the second yoke 271 which is still associated with the top cover 247 . similarly , the high gear idler shaft 263 is placed so that a section of the shaft adjacent to the first high gear idler gear 265 is received in the exposed portion of the hole 279 of the upper portion of the third yoke 273 still associated with the top cover 247 . at the same time , a section of the high gear idler shaft 263 nearer the second high gear idler gear 267 is received in the exposed portion of the third hole 275 c in the upper portion 269 b of the first yoke 269 . the idler shafts 257 , 263 are secured in place by bolting the lower portions 269 a , 271 a , 273 a to the respective upper portions 269 b , 271 b , 273 b , thereby encircling the idler shaft sections . in this way , the idler shafts 257 , 263 are mounted entirely by the top cover 247 . the outside cover plate 219 may be preassembled with the input shaft 227 and the inside cover plate 221 may likewise be preassembled with the output shaft 231 . the input and output shafts ( and associated cover plates ) can be brought together with the top cover 247 as shown in fig1 . the output shaft 231 is received through the first hole 275 a in the first yoke 269 and the reduced diameter portion of the input shaft 227 is inserted into the output shaft . bolts are passed through the cover plates 219 , 221 and into the top cover 247 . this completes the subassembly 232 which includes all of the gearing of the landing gear leg 211 except for the bevel gear 225 attached to the top of the lead screw ( not shown but essentially the same as the screw 23 of fig5 ). it is further contemplated that the single idler leg 11 may use a top cover substantially similar to the top cover 247 used by the dual idler leg 211 and leave one of the yokes 271 , 273 unused , as described below . the subassembly 232 so formed may be dropped into the open top of the leg 211 in manufacture . the cover plates 219 , 221 are secured to the leg 211 to assemble the subassembly 232 with the upper section 215 of the leg . fig2 and 27 illustrate another version of the single idler landing gear leg 211 ′ that uses a top cover 247 ′ having yokes 269 ′, 271 ′ and 273 ′ substantially identical to the top cover described above with respect to the dual idler landing gear leg 211 . thus , the same top cover and leg sections can be used to manufacture both single and dual idler landing gear legs . in the version illustrated in fig2 and 28 , the input and output shafts 227 ′, 231 ′ are also supported by the top cover 247 ′ in the first yoke 269 ′ depending from the top cover . either the second yoke 271 ′ or the third yoke 273 ′ receives and supports the idler shaft 245 ′. the other yoke 273 ′ or 271 ′ is not used by the subassembly 232 ′. the operation of this version would be substantially similar to the operation of the single idler leg 11 described above . with this version , both a single idler subassembly 232 ′ and the dual idler subassembly 232 would use a common top cover to facilitate manufacture . when introducing elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment ( s ) thereof , the articles “ a ”, “ an ”, “ the ” and “ said ” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements . the terms “ comprising ”, “ including ” and “ having ” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements . in view of the above , it will be seen that the several objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results attained . as various changes could be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention , it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense . | US-13132008-A |
system for filling a tank comprising a pipe head and a fill pipe extending between the pipe head and the tank . the pipe head comprises a chamber with an inlet opening that connects to the atmosphere and an outlet opening that connects to the fill pipe and a stopper being movable between open and closed positions to open or close the access to the fill pipe , the head inlet and outlet openings being sized and arranged to allow introduction of a filling nozzle into the fill pipe through the pipe head when the stopper is in its open position . the fill pipe comprises or is preceded by a local restriction designed so that the cross section of the passage for the nozzle is substantially reduced to the outer diameter of the nozzle . a degassing connection links the fill pipe and the pipe head outside of its outlet opening . | a fuel system for a motor vehicle generally comprises a fuel tank and a fill pipe enabling the fuel tank to be filled . fig1 and 2 in fact illustrate an intermediate part ( 10 ) intended to be attached ( by welding its wall ( 34 )) to such a fill pipe and comprising a first section in the form of a guide ( 38 ) for a flow of fuel during filling , intended to be inserted into the fill pipe , a second pipe section ( 46 ) intended to be connected to a recirculation duct and an intermediate chamber ( 32 ), connected to a pipe head ( 12 ) intended to receive the head of a filling nozzle ( not shown ). the pipe head ( 12 ) comprises a chamber ( 14 ) with an inlet opening ( 16 ) that connects with the atmosphere and an outlet opening ( 18 ) that connects with the intermediate chamber ( 32 ). a stopper ( 20 ) is positioned between the inlet opening ( 16 ) and the outlet opening ( 18 ) so as to prevent or allow the introduction of a head of a filling nozzle into the fill pipe through the pipe head ( 12 ). the stopper ( 20 ) comprises a rotating valve body ( 22 ) with a cylindrical passage opening ( 24 ) and an outer wall ( 26 ). the valve body ( 22 ) is housed on a seat ( 28 ) in which the outlet opening ( 18 ) is formed . the valve body ( 22 ) can be moved between a closed position ( illustrated in fig1 ) and an open position ( illustrated in fig2 ). in the closed position , the passage opening ( 24 ) is not aligned with the outlet opening ( 18 ), the latter being sealed by the outer wall ( 26 ) of the valve body ( 22 ). in this position , the introduction of a filling nozzle is prevented and also any exchange of fluid between the chamber ( 14 ) of the pipe head ( 12 ) and the fill pipe is prevented . in the open position , the passage opening ( 24 ) is aligned with the inlet ( 16 ) and outlet ( 18 ) openings , thus allowing a filling nozzle to be introduced into the fill pipe . the system illustrated comprises a flare ( 30 ) in the bottom of the pipe head ( 12 ) that enables the intermediate part ( 10 ) to be attached by welding . this intermediate part comprises an upstream section delimiting the chamber ( 32 ) and being directed towards the pipe head ( 12 ); a downstream section comprising a wall ( 34 ) intended to be welded to the fill pipe and equipped with a coupling ( 46 ) to the recirculation duct ; and a funnel component ( 36 ) leading to the guide ( 38 ) of which the lower section is intended to be inserted into the fill pipe . the funnel component ( 36 ) terminates in a local cross - sectional restriction ( 40 ) having a flow area that substantially corresponds to the diameter of a filling nozzle . the coupling ( 46 ) leads into the part via a recirculation orifice ( 44 ). during filling , the vapours from the tank ( and that result from the volume of gas displaced by the liquid ) are at least partly recirculated via this orifice . the intermediate part ( 10 ) also comprises a lower orifice ( 50 ) positioned between a substantially horizontal wall ( 52 ) and the pipe section ( 38 ). the orifices ( 44 , 50 ) are arranged so as to create a baffle for the discharged fuel and to thus prevent a direct discharge to the outside of the pipe - filling system . the intermediate part ( 10 ) also comprises an upper orifice ( 60 ) connecting the intermediate chamber ( 32 ) and the chamber ( 14 ) of the pipe head ( 12 ). the latter comprises an opening ( 62 ) for discharging water between the chamber ( 14 ) and a collection tank ( not shown ) or the atmosphere . a mobile component ( 64 ) is positioned in the chamber ( 14 ) and can be moved between a first position and a second position so as to , each time , seal either the upper orifice ( 60 ) or the water - discharge opening ( 62 ). in its first position — shown in fig1 — the mobile component ( 64 ) seals the orifice ( 60 ) and keeps the discharge opening ( 62 ) open . a discharge of fuel from the fill pipe to the chamber ( 14 ) through the orifice ( 60 ) is thus prevented . on the other hand , the discharge of water possibly present in the chamber ( 14 ) is made possible through the discharge opening ( 62 ) which makes it possible to prevent the water from penetrating into the fill pipe , and consequently the fuel tank , during the filling phase . in its second position — shown in fig2 — the mobile component ( 64 ) seals the discharge opening ( 62 ) and keeps the orifice ( 60 ) open . a discharge of fuel from the fill pipe to the chamber ( 14 ) through the orifice ( 60 ) is thus made possible . this is however mainly gaseous fuel , the liquid having been largely retained by the intermediate part ( 10 ) and its baffles . the geometry of the chamber ( 14 ) is , in addition , such that it receives the discharged fuel and prevents projection of the fuel in the direction of the user through the outlet opening ( 18 ). on the other hand , in this position , the water - discharge opening ( 62 ) is sealed , thus preventing the release of the discharged fuel into the collection tank or into the atmosphere . it should be noted that in this position , during filling , the flow of fuel supplying the tank creates a suction effect as little gas escapes through the opening ( 50 ) and most is recirculated ( sucked through the opening ( 44 )). it is only at the end of the filling , when the liquid rises in the pipe and makes the nozzle switch off , that the gases and liquid can escape through this opening . it is there that the illustrated device according to the invention is involved , which device allows : 1 — a liquid / vapour separation , which makes it possible to “ cushion ” the end of the filling and enables the nozzle to stop without overflowing ; 2 — a separation between the degassing that comes from the tank and that from inside the pipe , which is discharged during filling , thereby preventing turbulence during filling ; and 3 — a restriction around the spout of the nozzle , preventing liquid from rising around the latter at the end of filling . the activation means of the mobile component ( 64 ) is formed , according to the embodiment illustrated in fig1 and 2 , by a nose ( 66 ) on a first end of the mobile component ( 64 ) and by a bearing ( 70 ) on the valve body ( 22 ). the nose ( 66 ) and the bearing ( 70 ) are arranged so that , during movement of the valve body ( 22 ) to its open position , the bearing ( 70 ) comes into contact with the nose ( 66 ), thus positioning the mobile component ( 64 ) in its second position . during movement of the valve body ( 22 ) to its closed position , the bearing ( 70 ) is disengaged from the nose ( 66 ), and the mobile component ( 64 ) is moved into its first position , preferably under the action of a prestressing means , such as a spring ( not shown ). a second end of the mobile component ( 64 ) comprises a component in the shape of a bell ( 74 ) enabling the orifice ( 60 ) to be sealed when the mobile component ( 64 ) is in its first position and a tongue ( 76 ) enabling the discharge opening ( 62 ) to be sealed when the mobile component ( 64 ) is in its second position . the bell component ( 74 ) also makes it possible to break the flow of discharged fuel passing through the orifice ( 60 ) and to favour a lateral distribution of the fuel . the pipe head ( 12 ) illustrated comprises , in addition , a sealing flap ( 80 ) linked to the inlet opening ( 16 ) and which is raised by swinging about a rotation axis ( 82 ) enabling it to be moved between an open position and a closed position of the inlet opening ( 16 ). the sealing flap ( 80 ) is preferably prestressed in its closed position and is swung into its open position by introducing a filling nozzle into the chamber ( 14 ) through the inlet opening ( 16 ). the sealing flap ( 80 ) is advantageously connected to the stopper ( 20 ) by a coupling member ( not shown in these figures ) so that the stopper ( 20 ) is moved into its open position when the sealing flap ( 80 ) is moved into its open position , and so that the stopper ( 20 ) is moved into its closed position when the sealing flap ( 80 ) is moved into its closed position . fig3 illustrates a system that corresponds to the principle shown schematically in fig1 and 2 , but where the head itself ( 12 ) has been removed in order to show the underlying components . this system integrates a locking flap ( 83 ) that can be rotated about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to that of the pipe head , this rotation being caused by an actuator comprising a feed screw ( 84 ); an electric motor ( 85 ) capable of rotating the screw both to the right and to the left ; and a wheel ( section ) equipped with gears ( 86 ) that are complementary to the pitch of the screw ( 84 ), positioned perpendicular to and in contact with this screw and being integrated or attached to one end of the locking flap ( 83 ). in the open position of the system illustrated on the left , the locking flap ( 83 ) is in a position so that it has enabled the main flap ( 80 ) to swing about its axis ( 82 ) and by doing this , to move the stopper ( 20 ) via a system of corresponding pinions ( 81 ). in turn , by swinging into its open position , the stopper ( 20 ) has raised the mobile component ( 64 ), hooking it up by its nose ( 66 ). therefore , the fuel drainage orifice ( 60 ) is open , unblocked by the bell ( 74 ), while the tongue ( 76 ) seals the water - discharge opening ( 62 ) present in the head ( not shown in this figure ). in the closed position of the system illustrated on the right , the locking flap ( 83 ) blocks the swinging of the main flap ( 80 ) and , by doing so , leaves the stopper ( 20 ) in its closed position and the mobile component ( 64 ) in its rest position where , by gravity , the bell ( 74 ) seals the fuel drainage orifice and where the tongue ( 76 ) unblocks the water - discharge opening in the head ( not shown ). fig4 illustrates a similar system but where the mobile component this time is in the form of a rocker arm ( 64 ′) having an s - shaped part ( 66 ′) which acts as a spring and acting on which part is a tongue ( 70 ′) attached to the stopper ( 20 ), a counterweight ( 76 ′) capable of sealing / unblocking the water - discharge opening ( 62 ) and an excrescence ( 74 ′) capable of sealing / unblocking the fuel drainage orifice ( 60 ). in the closed position of the system ( which is the one represented in this figure ), the tongue ( 70 ′) compresses the s - shaped part ( 66 ′) of the rocker arm ( 64 ′) so that the counterweight ( 76 ′) is raised and unblocks the water - discharge opening ( 62 ). in this position , the excrescence ( 74 ′) seals the fuel drainage orifice ( 60 ). during the opening of this system , the stopper ( 20 ) swings upwards and , by doing so , the tongue ( 70 ′) unblocks the s - shaped part ( 66 ′) which is moved upwards by the counterweight ( 76 ′). therefore , the counterweight ( 76 ′) seals , by gravity , the water - discharge opening ( 62 ) while the excrescence ( 74 ′), which is moved upwards by the s - shaped part ( 66 ′), unblocks the fuel drainage orifice ( 60 ). such a system is more robust than that of the previous figure . finally , fig5 illustrates , in greater detail ( with 3 different three - dimensional views ), the geometry of the rocker arm ( 64 ′) with its s - shaped part ( 66 ′), its counterweight ( 76 ′) that cooperates with the water - discharge orifice and the excrescence ( 74 ′) that cooperates with the fuel drainage orifice . it can be seen therefrom that the counterweight ( 76 ′) and the excrescence ( 74 ′) are separate parts inserted into orifices intentionally moulded in the part in the form of a rocker arm ( 64 ′). | US-37480307-A |
a system and method for extending a display of advertisements on a client web browser as provided . the method includes a response to a request for a web page presenting an advertisement associated with a web page and randomly embedding a control for proceeding to the web page in the display of the advertisement . upon presenting the advertisement for display , a randomly displayed feature must be activated by the user . thereupon in response to the user activation of the control , the advertisement is deleted and the display proceeds to the requested web page , thereby displaying advertisements for extended viewing by a user . | referring now to fig1 there is a pictorial representation which depicts a data processing system in which the present invention may be implemented . a personal computer 100 is depicted which includes a system unit 110 , a video display terminal 102 , a keyboard 104 , storage devices 108 , which may include floppy drives and other types of permanent and removable storage media , and mouse 106 . additional input devices may be included with personal computer 100 . personal computer 100 can be implemented using any suitable computer , such as an ibm aptiva ™ computer , a product of international business machines corporation , located in armonk , n . y . although the depicted representation shows a personal computer , other embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in other types of data processing systems , such as network computers , web - based television set top boxes , internet appliances , etc . computer 100 also preferably includes a graphical user interface that may be implemented by means of systems software residing in computer readable media in operation within computer 100 . with reference now to fig2 a block diagram illustrates a data processing system in which the present invention may be implemented . data processing system 200 is an example of a client computer . data processing system 200 employs a peripheral component interconnect ( pci ) local bus architecture . although the depicted example employs a pci bus , other bus architectures such as micro channel and isa may be used . processor 202 and main memory 204 are connected to pci local bus 206 through pci bridge 208 . pci bridge 208 also may include an integrated memory controller and cache memory for processor 202 . additional connections to pci local bus 206 may be made through direct component interconnection or through add - in boards . in the depicted example , local area network ( lan ) adapter 210 , scsi host bus adapter 212 , and expansion bus interface 214 are connected to pci local bus 206 by direct component connection . in contrast , audio adapter 216 , graphics adapter 218 , and audio / video adapter 219 are connected to pci local bus 206 by add - in boards inserted into expansion slots . expansion bus interface 214 provides a connection for a keyboard and mouse adapter 220 , modem 222 , and additional memory 224 . scsi host bus adapter 212 provides a connection for hard disk drive 226 , tape drive 228 , and cd - rom drive 230 . typical pci local bus implementations will support three or four pci expansion slots or add - in connectors . an operating system runs on processor 202 and is used to coordinate and provide control of various components within data processing system 200 in fig2 . the operating system may be a commercially available operating system such as os / 2 , which is available from international business machines corporation . “ os / 2 ” is a trademark of international business machines corporation . an object oriented programming system such as java may run in conjunction with the operating system and provides calls to the operating system from java programs or applications executing on data processing system 200 . “ java ” is a trademark of sun microsystems , inc . instructions for the operating system , the object - oriented operating system , and applications or programs are located on storage devices , such as hard disk drive 226 , and may be loaded into main memory 204 for execution by processor 202 . those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the hardware in fig2 may vary depending on the implementation . other internal hardware or peripheral devices , such as flash rom ( or equivalent nonvolatile memory ) or optical disk drives and the like , may be used in addition to or in place of the hardware depicted in fig2 . also , the processes of the present invention may be applied to a multiprocessor data processing system . for example , data processing system 200 , if optionally configured as a network computer , may not include scsi host bus adapter 212 , hard disk drive 226 , tape drive 22 b , and cd - rom 230 . in that case , the computer , to be properly called a client to computer , must include some type of network communication interface , such as lan adapter 210 , modem 222 , or the like . as another example , data processing system 200 may be a stand - alone system configured to be bootable without relying on some type of network communication interface , whether or not data processing system 200 comprises some type of network communication interface . as a further example , data processing system 200 may be a personal digital assistant ( pda ) device which is configured with rom and / or flash rom in order to provide non - volatile memory for storing operating system files and / or user - generated data . the depicted example in fig2 and above - described examples are not meant to imply architectural limitations . with reference now to fig3 a block diagram depicts a pictorial representation of a distributed data processing system in which the present invention may be implemented . distributed data processing system 300 is a network of computers in which the present invention may be implemented . distributed data processing system 300 contains a network 302 , which is the medium used to provide communications links between various devices and computers connected together within distributed data processing system 300 . network 302 may include permanent connections , such as wire or fiber optic cables , temporary connections made through telephone connections or networks which employ wireless technology . in the depicted example , a server 304 is connected to network 302 along with storage unit 306 . in addition , clients 308 , 310 , and 312 also are connected to a network 302 . these clients 308 , 310 , and 312 may be , for example , personal computers or network computers . for purposes of this application , a network computer is any computer , coupled to a network , which receives a program or other application from another computer coupled to the network . in the depicted example , server 304 provides data , such as boot files , operating system images , and applications to clients 308 - 312 . clients 308 , 310 , and 312 are clients to server 304 . distributed data processing system 300 may include additional servers , such as advertisement server 314 , which places advertisements to a user in response to a request . other peripheral devices may be attached to the network such as clients , and other devices not shown . in the depicted example , distributed data processing system 300 is the internet with network 302 representing a worldwide collection of networks and gateways that use the tcp / ip suite of protocols to communicate with one another . at the heart of the internet is a backbone of high - speed data communication lines between major nodes or host computers , consisting of thousands of commercial , government , educational and other computer systems that route data and messages . of course , distributed data processing system 300 also may be implemented as a number of different types of networks , such as , for example , an intranet , a local area network ( lan ), or a wide area network ( wan ). fig3 is intended as an example , and not as an architectural limitation for the present invention . internet , also referred to as an “ internetwork ”, is a set of computer networks , possibly dissimilar , joined together by means of gateways that handle data transfer and the conversion of messages from the sending network to the protocols used by the receiving network ( with packets if necessary ). when capitalized , the term “ internet ” refers to the collection of networks and gateways that use the tcp / ip suite of protocols . currently , the most commonly employed method of transferring data over the internet is to employ the world wide web environment , also called simply “ the web ”. other internet resources exist for transferring information , such as file transfer protocol ( ftp ) and gopher , but have not achieved the popularity of the web . in the web environment , servers and clients affect data transaction using the hypertext transfer protocol ( http ), a known protocol for handling the transfer of various data files ( e . g ., text , still graphic images , audio , motion video , etc .). information is formatted for presentation to a user by a standard page description language , the hypertext markup language ( html ). in addition to basic presentation formatting , html allows developers to specify “ links ” to other web resources , usually identified by a uniform resource locator ( url ). a url is a special syntax identifier defining a communications path to specific information . each logical block of information accessible to a client , called a “ page ” or a “ web page ”, is identified by a url . the url provides a universal , consistent method for finding and accessing this information , not necessarily for the user , but mostly for the user &# 39 ; s web “ browser ”. a browser is a software application for requesting and receiving content from the internet or world wide web . usually , a browser at a client machine , such as client 308 or data processing system 200 , submits a request for information identified by a url . retrieval of information on the web is generally accomplished with an html - compatible browser . the internet also is widely used to transfer applications to users using browsers . with respect to commerce on the web , consumers and businesses use the web to purchase various goods and services solely on the web while others use the web to extend their reach . information about the world wide web can be found at the web site of the world wide web consortium . most advertisements on the web , while annoying , are easy to ignore . shown in fig4 is a typical desktop view 400 of a client screen . a title bar 402 includes ways to close or minimize the current screen . alternatively striking alt - f4 would close a windows - based format view . a separate browser window is opened which contains only the advertisement 404 which presents information to the user who may cancel the advertisement by moving the mouse cursor to the title bar to minimize or delete the advertisement or use alt f4 to close the window . the user need not look at the advertisement and simply close the window . another typical advertisement is a banner ad 504 shown in fig5 which has a desktop screen 500 having a title bar 502 . the banner ad 504 , is usually unobtrusive in that it does not block the user from reading the web page . a further conventional advertisement , sometimes referred to as a dual box , is displayed over a portion of the content of the web page . the dual box ad has control features which allow a user to enlarge or minimize the display but typically the display cannot be completely removed by the user . yet a further conventional internet advertisement structure is the display of an advertisement over substantially the entire display area in response to a url from a user . the advertisement contains an embedded control , present at the same location on the page regardless of the advertisement content , which requires a user to “ click through ” the control in order to reach the display of the desired web page . in each of the foregoing prior art advertisement architectures , the location of the banner ad , dual box ad or other advertisement is relatively easy to bypass on the way to a desired url because the location of the control is predictable and can therefore be anticipated by the user . the present invention is directed at methods to increase the display time of advertisements associated with a particular url . in a first embodiment of the invention , the hyperlink to proceed to the desired page is randomly located within each consecutive advertisement that is presented to the user . an example of this method is shown in fig6 where the desktop 600 having a title bar 602 has shown a display 604 containing a full screen advertisement for viewing by the client user . contained within the advertisement is the url of interest 606 , which must be clicked on in order to proceed . the placement of the url within the advertisement display is presented at random locations within the advertisement and consequently the locations will vary with each advertisement display . for the purposes of the application random is defined as difficult to predict . an example of a program for implementing the sending of a randomly placed link in the advertisement text is set forth in the following sequence of steps : 2 . elect which type of placement method which will be used . some examples include words , sentences , or paragraphs ; 3 . count the number of words sentences or paragraph within the advertisement text ; 4 . select a random number between 1 and the number which is generated from step 3 ; 6 . output the next page url . there are a number of ways to implement this step . one manner is to add an anchor tag around the word . another method of extending the viewing time of advertisements is shown in fig7 . again herein is shown a desktop 700 , and title bar 702 . the text of an advertisement is shown as a full screen view , 704 . placed somewhere on the advertisement presentation 704 are a series of buttons for proceeding . the buttons represent a location which contains the control function to proceed to the desired web page , proceed back to the previous web page or proceed to a third web page providing information relevant to information presented on the button for example , the buttons “ forward ”, 706 , “ backward ”, 708 and “ more info ” 710 are placed on the screen is a random order whenever the web advertisement is shown where forward 706 is linked to the desired web page , backward 708 is linked to the previous page and “ more info ” is linked to a page with additional information relating tot he displayed advertisement . the placement of the buttons can also be randomly placed on screen 704 . more than three buttons may be used or fewer than three buttons may be used . by making the display of the location and control function of the buttons random , a user cannot anticipate the control necessary to remove the ad and consequently the advertisement may be displayed for a longer duration . a program for implementing the sending of random buttons is as follows : 2 ) pick an advertisement at random and insert it into the stream ; the next page can either be the same name always or a randomly generated name . another method to extend advertisement viewing is to display the advertisement with a question and give a number of urls where the answer is hidden . this is shown in fig8 wherein desktop 800 , contains title bar 802 , and has displayed a full screen advertisement 804 . a question 806 is asked . suggested locations to find the answers 808 is given . with the place for the answer 810 shown . the user will not be able to proceed without giving the correct answer . alternatively , the text of the advertisement may be displayed and a question about the text must be answered before proceeding . yet a further method to extend the display time of an advertisement is to display the advertisement for a predetermined time period before allowing the web page which has been requested to be accessed by the user . in a contemplated embodiment the control function which allows the user to proceed is disabled for a predetermined time . in another contemplated embodiment the display is automatically advanced from the advertisement to the selected web page after the predetermined time has elapsed . the predetermined time period which is selected may be randomly set with respect to each advertisement . in preferred embodiments which employ time as a control function the user is provided with a display which conveys information relating to the time which is remaining before the before the selected web page will be displayed or the control function is activated . such a display may take the form of a timer with a moving hand progressing toward zero , or a bar graph “ filing up ” at a constant rate . as shown in fig9 a client computer 902 , makes a request for a specific url 904 . the url is parsed into component parts to identify the type of request , the server name sent to the dns , and the path of the html file . the path is sent to the web server as part of the http get line for getting and posting a requested address . the dns 908 , resolves the url to a corresponding internet protocol address 910 . the request 912 is routed from dns 908 to correct server 914 for fulfillment of the request . associated with the url is an advertisement 950 . the advertisement 950 can be on requested server 914 , or alternatively the advertisement could reside on a separate advertisement server 916 . the requested information is sent over the internet 918 along with the advertisement 950 in the form of hypertext markup language ( html ). this is presented to the video monitor 920 of the client computer 902 . a browser 922 parses the received information for content and formatting . statements of other requests and images are made to the server via html 924 . an applet 926 , running on the client computer or on a server on the internet may be run to place the advertisement and only the advertisement on the host computer &# 39 ; s screen and to implement the various options for extending the advertisement viewing time . the applet parses the page and sizes it for display . the applet 926 of fig9 can be used to select and implement the control function within the advertisement . this function can vary over time or preselected based on the type of advertisement . a timer function is a feature of the html programming language and this can be used for the timer control function . a control feature may be implemented to disable the delete function of the title bar or the “ alt f4 ” function while an advertisement is on display . a flow chart of the method for implementing the invention is shown in fig1 . in step 1002 , a request is generated at the client computer for accessing a web page . also , in step 1002 the host name within the url is received by the domain name server ( dns ) translating the host name into a server ep address . in step 1004 , the web server receives the http request from the client . in step 1005 one of the control functions described above is added to the advertisement prior to the servers sending the requested information to the user . in step 1006 the server corresponding to the ip address sends down a default html document named index . htm including html programming code . in step 1008 the browser at the client computer parses the html code into unique server file requests . in step 1010 , based on information in the unique server file requests , the browser then requests subrequests of files from servers including an advertisement server . the advertisement is downloaded for display in step 1012 . with the control function inserted into the advertisement , the advertisement is displayed to the user in step 1016 . it is important to note that while the present invention has been described in the context of a fully functioning data processing system , those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the processes of the present invention are capable of being distributed in the form of a computer readable medium of instructions and a variety of forms and that the present invention applies equally regardless of the particular type of signal bearing media actually used to carry out the distribution . examples of computer readable media include recordable - type media such as a floppy disc , a hard disk drive , a ram , and cd - roms and transmission - type media such as digital and analog communications links . the description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description , but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed . many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art . the embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles often invention , the practical application , and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated . | US-49487500-A |
a structure having a hole , including a substrate , a first layer including an alumina hole , and a second layer disposed between the substrate and the fist layer , wherein the second layer contains silicon , and has a smaller hole than the alumina hole . | referring to figures , the nano structure of the present invention will be described . fig1 a and 1b are conceptual views showing the nano structure of the present invention . fig1 a shows a plane view , and fig1 b shows a sectional view along the line a - a . the nano structure shown in fig1 a and 1b includes a substrate 11 , an under layer 12 including a conductive metal , an adhesive layer 13 , nano holes 14 , an anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer 15 ( also referred to as “ anodically oxidized film ”), and pores 16 disposed in the adhesive layer . the anodically oxidized film 15 contains al and oxygen as main components , includes a number of columnar nano holes 14 shown in fig1 a and 1b . the nano holes 14 are disposed substantially vertical to a surface of the under layer , and are located in parallel each other at substantially equal spaces . also , the nano holes 14 are prone to be arranged in a triangular lattice as shown in fig1 a . each of the nano holes has a diameter 2 r of several nm to several hundreds nm , and a space 2 r of about several tens of nm to several hundreds nm . when the nano holes are arranged in a honey - bomb structure , uniformity of shapes of the nano hole diameters and uniformity of the penetration to the bottoms of the nano holes are improved . the nano holes can be thus arranged by producing convex and concave portions on the al surface at an adequate space , and by staring the production of the nano holes at the concave portions . the convex and concave portions are produced by forming concaves on the al surface or locating a member having convexes and concaves on the aluminum surface . the spaces and the diameters of the nano holes can be significantly controlled by process conditions such as a concentration and a temperature of the electrolyte for use in the anodic oxidation , a method for changing an anodic oxidation voltage , a voltage value , a time , and subsequent etching conditions for widening the pores . a thickness and a depth of the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer can be controlled by a thickness of a film containing al as a main component , and are 10 nm to 100 μm , for example . conventionally , the depth of the nano hole is controlled by the duration of the anodic oxidation . according to the present invention , the depth of the nano hole can be controlled by the thickness of the film containing al as the main component to provide the anodically oxidized alumina nano holes with the uniform depth . the anodically oxidized nano hole layer is preferably made of an oxide of al , but may contain other elements as long as the nano hole can be successfully formed . the adhesive layer 13 is a film containing si as a main component with finer pores than the nano holes . the adhesive layer is obtained from the alsi layer preferably represented by the formula al 1 - x si x where x = 0 . 2 to 0 . 7 before the anodic oxidation . in other words , the alsi layer contains 20 to 70 atomic % of si based on the total amounts of al and si . after the anodic oxidation or the etching , al is dissolved , which leads to a tendency that si becomes the main component as compared with the above - defined composition . it is more preferable that the alsi layer contain 30 to 60 atomic %. alternatively , a mixture of si and ge can be used instead of si . the alsi layer is formed by sputtering al and si at the above - defined composition ratio . suitable composition segregation is induced in the alsi surface , whereby al columnar structures are formed and dispersed in areas containing si as the main component . the diameter of the al columnar structure is about several nm . the al columnar structures are disposed at a space of about 3 to 10 nm . the diameter and the space of the al columnar structure depend on the film forming conditions and the composition ratio of al and si . thus obtained layer is subjected to the anodic oxidation and the etching steps to dissolve the al columnar structures , thereby forming the pores 16 . when the adhesive layer is subjected to sufficient anodic oxidation , the parts containing si as the main component are also oxidized to form the adhesive layer containing oxidized si as the main component . when the adhesive layer is subjected to suppressed anodic oxidation and etching , the adhesive layer containing amorphous si is formed . the pores are preferentially formed in the adhesive layer under the parts where the alumina nano holes are present . the thickness of the adhesive layer is not especially limited , but generally 0 . 3 nm to 100 nm , and more preferably about 1 nm to 50 nm . when the adhesive layer including the pores contains si as the main component , it contains 80 to 100 atomic %, preferably 90 to 100 atomic % of si . the adhesive layer may contains 0 to 20 atomic %, preferably 1 to 10 atomic % of al . when the adhesive layer including the pores contains si and al , it contains 80 to 100 atomic %, preferably 90 to 100 atomic % of si based on the total components other than oxygen . the adhesive layer may contains 0 to 20 atomic %, preferably 1 to 10 atomic % of al . the under layer 12 is not especially limited , but is preferably flat . when the under layer is used as an electrode , it preferably contains a conductive material . specific examples include noble metals such as ag , au , pt , pd , ir , rh , os , ru , and their alloys or cu , graphite , and semiconductors such as si , inp and ge . the under layer may be a thin film or the substrate itself . if the enclosing material is embedded into the nano holes by electrodeposition , the under layer preferably contains the noble metal . the nano structure of the present invention has an advantage that the filling material and the under layer are well electrically connected . examples of the constructions of the nano structure into which the enclosing material is embedded are shown in fig5 a to 5 c . in fig5 a , the enclosing material 41 is uniformly embedded into the nano holes up to the surfaces of the nano holes . in fig5 b , a laminated film made of the enclosing material 42 is embedded into the nano holes . in fig5 c , the enclosing material 41 is embedded into the nano holes such that the nano holes are not completely filled . the enclosing material extending to outside of the nano holes may be embedded into the nano holes ( not shown ). if the enclosing material is magnetic , the nano structure may be used as a vertical magnetization film of a magnetic medium , or as a fine line of a quantum effect device . if co and cu are laminated and electrodeposited within the nano holes as shown in fig5 b , a gmr element in response to a magnetic field can be fabricated . if the enclosing material is embedded into the nanoholes such that the nano holes are not completely filled as shown in fig5 c , an electron emitting device can be fabricated . if the enclosing material is a light emitting material or a phosphor , the nano structure can be used as a wavelength changing layer as well as the light emitting device . if a dielectric material other than alumina is embedded into the enclosing material , the nano structure is effective as a photonic device . in the present invention , the enclosing material may not only be present within the anodically oxidized alumina nano holes , but also extend to outside of the holes . the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole structure according to the present invention can be used as a mask or a mold . referring to figures , a method for producing the nano structure according to the present invention will be described . fig4 is a process chart showing one embodiment of a method for producing a nano structure according to the present invention . in fig4 , the method for producing a silicon nano structure of the present invention comprises the steps ( a ) to ( d ). a film forming step comprises the steps ( a - 1 ) to ( a - 3 ) to from a laminated film including an under layer / an alsi layer for an adhesive layer / an al layer on a substrate . step ( a - 1 ): the under layer is formed on the substrate . step ( a - 2 ): the alsi layer for the adhesive layer is formed on the under layer of the substrate using a film forming technique in which a substance is formed under the condition that al and si are in a non - equilibrium state . thus - obtained alsi layer for the adhesive layer has columnar structures containing al as a main component , and si areas surrounding the columnar structures , and includes a mixed film containing 20 to 70 atomic % of si - based on the total amounts of al and si . step ( a - 3 ): then , an al film is formed on the alsi layer for the adhesive layer . the film forming method in the above - described steps ( a - 1 ) to ( a - 3 ) may be any methods including resistance heating vapor deposition , eb vapor deposition , sputtering , and cvd . in any case , the surface of the al film is preferably flat . then , the laminated film obtained in the step ( a ) is anodically oxidized to form an anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer . the al film is anodically oxidized to form the alumina nano holes . by the anodic oxidation , the al columnar structures in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer are oxidized and dissolved to form the pores . simultaneously , si parts of the alsi layer for the adhesive layer are also oxidized . non - penetrated parts containing the alsi layer for the adhesive layer on bottoms of the nano holes , which remain after the anodic oxidation step , are etched to form the pores in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer . also , the diameter of the nano hole is broaden . after the etching step , the enclosing material is embedded into the alumina nano holes . referring to fig6 to 9 , a method for producing the nano structure of the present invention will be described . fig6 a to 6 d are conceptual views showing steps of the method for producing the nano structure according to the present invention . fig6 a is a sectional view showing a film structure before the anodic oxidation . on a substrate 11 , an under layer 12 , an alsi layer for an adhesive layer 31 , a film containing al as a main component 32 are sequentially formed . fig6 b is a sectional view showing the film structure after the anodic oxidation . an adhesive layer 13 may have pores 53 or al columnar structure ( s ) may remain in the adhesive layer 13 . fig6 c is a sectional view showing that al parts remained on the adhesive layer are dissolved after the etching , and the diameters of the nano holes are broaden . fig6 d is a sectional view showing the nano holes filled with the enclosing material 41 such as a metal and a semiconductor . fig7 is a schematic view showing an anodic oxidation apparatus for use in the present steps . the steps of fig6 a to 6 d will be described for detail . the following steps ( a ) to ( d ) correspond to the steps of fig6 a to 6 d . a sample is produced by forming the under layer 12 , the alsi layer for the adhesive layer 31 and the al film 32 on the substrate 11 . the film forming method may be any methods including resistance heating vapor deposition , eb vapor deposition , sputtering , and cvd . in any case , the surface of the al film is preferably flat . according to the present invention , the step of forming the alsi layer for the adhesive layer has characteristics , which will be described below . the alsi layer for the adhesive layer 31 is formed on the under layer 12 of the substrate 11 using the film forming technique in which the substance is formed under the condition that al and si are in a non - equilibrium state . as the film forming technique in which the substance is formed under the non - equilibrium state , the sputtering is used as one example . on the under layer 12 , the alsi layer for the adhesive layer 31 is formed by a magnetron sputtering method that is the film forming technique in which the substance is formed under the non - equilibrium state . the alsi layer for the adhesive layer 31 is constituted of al columnar structures 37 containing al as a main component , and si areas 38 containing si as a main component therearound as shown in fig1 . referring to fig1 , there will be described a method for forming the alsi layer for the adhesive layer using a sputtering method as the film forming method under the non - equilibrium state . fig1 shows a substrate 1 and a sputtering target 2 . with the sputtering method , a concentration or composition of al and si can be easily changed . as shown in fig1 , the alsi layer for the adhesive layer is formed by the magnetron sputtering method that is the film forming technique in which the substance is formed under the non - equilibrium state . the substrate 1 is equal to the substrate 11 including the under layer 12 . as shown in fig1 , si and al sources are fed by disposing si chips on an al target ( substrate ) 2 . although the si chips 3 are disposed apart in fig1 , it is not limited thereto , and single si chip may be used , as long as the film can be formed as desired . however , in order to disperse the columnar structures containing al uniformly within the si areas , the si chips are preferably disposed symmetry on the substrate 1 . also , an alsi sintered product produced by sintering the predetermined amount of al powder and si powder can be used as a target material for the film forming . alternatively , the al target and the si target are prepared separately , and sputtering may be performed using both targets simultaneously . the alsi layer contains 20 to 70 atomic %, preferably 25 to 65 atomic %, more preferably 30 to 60 atomic % of si based on the total amounts of al and si . when the amount of si is within the range , there is provided the alsi layer for the adhesive layer in which the al columnar structures are dispersed in the si areas . the “ atomic %” represents the ratio of al or si to the sum of al and si , and is also described as atom % or at %. it is obtained by a quantitative analysis of the amounts of si and al in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer using , for example , an inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry . although the concentration is herein represented by the atomic %, it can be represented by wt %. that is , not less than 20 atomic % to 70 % or less of si is equal to not less than 20 . 65 wt % to 70 . 84 wt % or less . ( conversion of atomic % to wt % is as follows : a weight ratio of al to si is determined using an al atomic weight of 26 . 982 and a si atomic weight of 28 . 086 . a value obtained from ( weight ratio )×( atomic %) can be converted into wt %.) the substrate has a temperature of 300 ° c . or less , preferably 200 ° c . or less . the substrate may have a temperature of not less than 0 ° c . to 100 ° c . or less , only if the alsi layer can be formed . in such a way , the alsi layer for the adhesive layer is formed , resulting in eutectic crystal morphology where al and si are in a metastable state . the al forms several nm level of nano columnar structures , which are separated self - organizingly . such structures are in substantially columnar shapes , and have a diameter of 1 to 10 nm and a space of 3 to 15 nm . the amount of si in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer can be controlled by , for example , changing the amount of si chips disposed on the al target . when the film is formed under the non - equilibrium state , especially by the sputtering method , a pressure in a reaction vessel where argon gas flows is preferably about 0 . 2 to 1 pa . the pressure is not especially limited thereto . any pressure may be used , as long as argon plasma is formed stably . the film forming method that the substance is formed under the non - equilibrium state is preferably the sputtering method , but may be any methods including resistance heating vapor deposition , electron beam ( eb ) vapor deposition . as the film forming method , there are a simultaneous process in which si and al are formed simultaneously , and a lamination process in which some atomic layers of si and al are laminated . thus - formed alsi layer for the adhesive layer 31 includes the al columnar structures 37 containing al as a main component , and the si areas 38 containing si as a main component therearound as shown in fig1 . the al columnar structures 37 containing al as the main component may contain other elements such as si , oxygen and argon as long as the columnar microstructures are provided . the si areas 38 containing si as the main component surrounding the al columnar structures may contain other elements such as al , oxygen and argon as long as the columnar microstructures are provided . the sample in which the laminated film is formed on the substrate in the film forming step is subjected to the anodic oxidation to provide the nano hole structure of the present invention . fig7 is a schematic view showing one example of an anodic oxidation apparatus for use in this step . in fig7 , the anodic oxidation apparatus includes a constant temperature bath 60 , a reaction vessel 61 , a counter electrode 62 such as a pt plate , an electrolyte 63 , a sample 64 , a power source 65 for applying an anodic oxidation voltage , an ammeter 66 for measuring an anodic oxidation current , and a sample holder 67 . the apparatus further includes a computer that automatically control and measure the voltage and current ( not shown ). the sample 64 and the counter electrode 62 are disposed in the electrolyte kept at constant temperature by the constant temperature bath . the power source applies the voltage between the sample and the electrode to conduct the anodic oxidation . the holder 67 is for preventing the voltage from applying to undesired parts . examples of the electrolyte for use in the anodic oxidation include oxalic acid , phosphoric acid , sulfuric acid and chromic acid solutions . when the voltage is low ( about ˜ 30 v ), the sulfuric acid solution is preferable . when the voltage is high ( 60 v ˜), the phosphoric acid solution is preferable . when the voltage is medium ( 30 v to 60 v ), the oxalic acid solution is preferable . if the al layer may have a pin hole or pin holes , the electrolyte may be contacted with the under layer to electrolyze water to induce foams , for example , of oxygen . the foams may be dispersed by mixing 3 % or more of alcohol such as ethanol and isopropyl alcohol into the electrolyte , whereby the anodic oxidation can be stabilized . the anodic oxidation will be described . fig8 is a graph showing a current profile upon anodic oxidation using various under metal layers . a sample is made by forming the above - described lamination film on the substrate made , for example , of quarts . the under layer is used as the electrode , and the anodic oxidation is performed at a constant voltage in the electrolyte , i . e ., the oxalic acid solution . initially , the surface of al is oxidized to rapidly decrease a current value ( point a in fig8 ). once the nano holes are started to be formed in the al film , the current gradually increases and become uniform ( point b in fig8 ). in order to measure an accurate oxidation current , it is required not to contact the under layer with the electrolyte . when the alsi layer for the adhesive layer is subjected to the anodic oxidation ( point c in fig8 ), oxidation of al and diffusion of al ions to the electrolyte are inhibited to decrease the current value ( point d in fig8 ). then , the alsi layer is started to be anodically oxidized ( point e in fig8 ). at this point , the anodic oxidation of the top of the al film is terminated as shown in fig9 b , the al columnar structures in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer are oxidized and dissolved as shown in fig9 c , and simultaneously the si parts in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer is oxidized as shown in fig9 d . if the anodic oxidation proceeds , the surface of the under layer may be contacted with the solution to electrolyze water , thereby increasing the current value ( point f in fig8 ). the electrolysis may gradually break the nano holes . if the oxide in the under metal layer exists stably ( si , ti , zr , hf , nb , ta , mo , w or a combination thereof is mixed therein ), the current can be sufficiently decreased ( point g in fig8 ). the termination point of the anodic oxidation is the point e , or the subsequent point g , or f in fig8 . however , it is not preferable that the anodic oxidation is conducted at the point g or f for a long time , since the under layer is excessively oxidized , and the nano holes are broken . in the anodic oxidation step , the laminated film obtained at the above step ( a ) is anodically oxidized to form the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer . the top of the al film on the laminated film are anodically oxidized to form the alumina nano holes . by the anodic oxidation , the al columnar structures in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer are anodically oxidized and dissolved to form some pores , where there remain incomplete pores having non - penetrated part ( s ). simultaneously , the si parts in the alsi layer for the adhesive layer is oxidized . the above - described nano structure is etched , whereby is it possible to remove the non - penetrated part ( s ) of the bottoms of the nano holes . the etching may include the step of immersing the structure in an acid solution , i . e ., a phosphoric acid solution , or in an alkali solution , i . e ., a koh solution . the etching can also broaden the diameters of the nano holes . the nano structure having the desired nano hole diameter can be obtained by controlling an acid concentration , a processing time , a temperature and the like . when the metal is electrodeposited in the nano holes , the substrate is immersed in a solution containing ionized metal after the above - described steps , and the voltage is applied to the under layer . one example of the solution is a cobalt sulfate solution . in order to fully produce nuclei upon the electrodeposition , applying voltage ac is effective . when the metal such as co , cu and ni is electrodeposited , it is required to apply a negative voltage to the under layer , since these elements discharge cations in the electrodeposition solution . in the present invention , the formation of the enclosing material by electrophoresis is also referred to as the electrodeposition . for example , since a dna is negatively charged in the solution , a positive voltage is applied to the under layer as described above , whereby it is possible to embed the dna into the nano holes . of course , the enclosing material can be disposed by any film forming methods such as penetration from the top of the nano holes or a cvd method other than the electrodeposition . also by the electrodeposition , the nano holes can be filled not only with the metal but also with any materials such as a semiconductor and an oxide . in some cases , after the enclosing material is sufficiently electrodeposited in the nano holes , it is more effective to polish the surface of the nano holes in order to be flat . it is also effective to anneal the nano structure before or after the etching . an annealing temperature is up to 1200 ° c . residual water in the film can be removed by annealing at a temperature of 100 ° c . or more . crystalinity of the anodically oxidized film can be enhanced by annealing at an increased temperature . when the nano structure is annealed after the enclosing material is filled , the properties or the structure of the enclosing material can be controlled and the tightness can be improved . the annealing can be conducted under vacuum , or reducing atmosphere such as hydrogen and inactive gas . as long as the under layer is not broken , the annealing can be conducted in air or in oxygen . this example illustrates the production of penetrated anodically oxidized alumina nano holes as shown in fig6 a to 6 d . a ) formation of under layer , alsi layer for adhesive layer and al film on eight quartz substrates , ti films were formed in a thickness of 5 nm by an rf sputtering method , and then pt films were formed in a thickness of 20 nm , respectively . eight kind of alsi layers having al 1 - x si x composition containing 10 , 20 , 30 , 40 , 50 , 60 , 70 , and 80 atomic % ( hereinafter simply referred to as “ 1 %”) of si , i . e ., x = 10 to 80 %, were formed thereon . on a top of each alsi layer for the adhesive layer , an al film was formed in a thickness of 200 nm . a target was made of aluminum in a shape of circle with a diameter of 100 mm on which 2 to 14 silicon chips in a size of 15 mm square are disposed . sputtering conditions were as follows : rf power source , ar flow rate : 50 sccm , discharge pressure : 0 . 7 pa , rf power : 1 kw . a temperature of each substrate was room temperature ( 25 ° c .). in this example , the target was composed of aluminum having 2 to 14 silicon chips . the numbers of the silicon chips are not limited thereto , and depend on the sputtering conditions such that the composition of the alsi layer for the adhesive layer contains silicon in the nearly predetermined amount . alternatively , the target may be composed of silicon having aluminum chips , or may be composed of a sintered silicon and aluminum . thus - obtained aluminum silicon mixture films were observed by a field emission scanning electron microscope ( fe - sem ). aluminum columnar structures were disposed two - dimensionally surrounded by silicon areas on the surfaces , viewing from a top of the substrate , as shown in fig1 . each of the aluminum columnar structure had a diameter of 1 to 9 nm . the aluminum columnar structures were observed for their sections by the fe - sem , have a length of 20 nm , and were independent each other . using the anodic oxidation apparatus shown in fig7 , the anodic oxidation was conducted . in this example , 0 . 3 mol / l of oxalic acid solution was used as the electrolyte , and the electrolyte was kept at 17 ° c . with the constant temperature bath . the voltage of the anodic oxidation was dc40v . the under layer of each sample was used as the electrode so that the anodic oxidation proceeded uniformly . during the anodic oxidation step , the current of the anodic oxidation was monitored to detect that the anodic oxidation proceeded on the al surface and reached the under layer . the anodic oxidation was terminated when the current was increased as shown in fig8 , point e . after the anodic oxidation , the sample was washed with distilled water and isopropyl alcohol . after the anodic oxidation , each sample was etched by immersing it in a 5 wt % phosphoric acid solution for 15 minutes , as needed . the surface and section of the samples taken were observed by the fe - sem . as a result , in each sample having the al 1 - x si x composition where x = 20 to 70 %, the nano holes were penetrated to the under layer 12 via the adhesive layer as shown in fig1 b . also , in each sample , the alsi layer for the adhesive layer oxidized having pores with diameters of 2 to 8 nm remained between the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer and the under layer . in the samples having the al 1 - x si x composition where x = 10 % and 80 %, the shapes of the pores or the penetration of the nano holes were poor . the sample of the present invention and a sample including no adhesive layer were polished with a diamond slurry by a polisher to about half of the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layers . the sample of the present invention was not damaged , but the sample including no adhesive layer was damaged such that a part of the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer was peeled . this revealed that the sample of the present invention had sufficient adhesion strength . a sample not etched was produced to evaluate as described above . in such sample , the nano holes were penetrated , but some of them were insufficiently penetrated . samples were prepared using the same procedure described in example 1 , except that each alsi layer for the adhesive layer had the al 1 - x si x composition where x = 40 %, the thickness of each alsi layer was any of 1 to 100 nm , and the etching was conducted using a koh solution for 1 to 10 minutes . the samples were observed by the fe - sem . in each sample having the adhesive layer with the thickness of 50 nm or less , the nano holes were penetrated to the under layer 12 as shown in fig1 b . in each sample having the adhesive layer with the thickness of more than 50 nm , some of the nano holes were not penetrated . in view of the results , it is preferable that the adhesive layer has a thickness of 1 to 50 nm . two samples were prepared using the same procedure described in example 1 , except that each alsi layer for the adhesive layer had the al 1 - x si x composition where x = 40 %, and the anodic oxidation was terminated at different timings . specifically , the anodic oxidation of one sample a was terminated when an anodizing oxidation current reached the point e shown in fig8 , and the anodic oxidation of the other sample b was terminated after the anodized oxidation current reached the point e shown in fig8 . then , the samples were etched in 5 wt % of phosphoric acid solution for 20 minutes . the samples were observed by the fe - sem . in the sample a , a si adhesive layer 34 having pores penetrated to the under layer 12 was at the bottom of the anodically oxidized nano hole film as shown in fig9 c . in the sample b , an oxidized si adhesive layer 36 having pores penetrated to the under layer 12 was at the bottom of the anodically oxidized nano hole film as shown in fig9 d . three samples were prepared using the same procedure described in example 1 , except that each alsi layer for the adhesive layer had the al 1 - x si x composition where x = 40 %, the thickness of each alsi layer was 50 nm , the under layers were sio 2 , ti , and pt , the anodic oxidation was terminated at the point e in fig8 , and the etching was conducted using 5 wt % of phosphoric acid solution for 20 minutes . the samples were observed by the fe - sem . in all samples , the si adhesive layers having pores penetrated to the under layers 12 were at the bottoms of the anodically oxidized nano hole films as shown in fig9 c . three samples were prepared using the same procedure described in example 4 such that the under layers were sio 2 , ti , and pt , the anodically oxidized alumina nano holes were produced , and an enclosing material was electrodeposited . the electrodeposition was conducted as follows : the sample was a working electrode , co was a counter electrode , a plating bath included 5 % coso 4 . 7h 2 o , 2 % h 3 bo 3 , a voltage was vdc of − 2v , and an electrodeposition time was 20 sec . the electrodeposited samples were observed for their section by the fe - sem . in the sample including the under layer made of pt , the section had the construction shown in fig5 a . the columnar nano holes having a diameter of about 40 nm were filled with co , and were arranged in parallel at spaces of about 100 nm each other . the columnar nano holes reached the adhesive layer , and co was electrodeposited in the pores in the adhesive layer . however , in the sample including the under layer made of ti , co was electroplated only partly . in the sample including the under layer made of sio 2 , co was not electroplated . in view of the results , the under layer made of noble metal has an advantage in the electrodeposition step . three samples were prepared using the same procedure described in example 3 except that the anodic oxidation was conducted using a : 0 . 3 mol / l of sulfuric acid , at 5 ° c ., 25v , b : 0 . 3 mol / l of oxalic acid , at 15 ° c ., 40v or c , 0 . 3 mol / l of phosphoric acid , 10 ° c ., 80v . among them , the point e in fig8 , that was the constant voltage , was evident when the sulfuric acid a was used . all samples were observed by the fe - sem . as a result , the sample that was subjected to the anodic oxidation using the sulfuric acid a had best adhesion between the bottom of the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer and the adhesive layer . as is apparent from the above - described embodiments , according to the present invention , adhesion between the under layer and the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer is enhanced . accordingly , the anodically oxidized alumina nano holes can have excellent resistance to any steps or uses where a stress is applied such as polishing and annealing , and their applications can be significantly broaden . also , according to the present invention , there can be stably produced the anodically oxidized alumina nano holes that are penetrated to an electrode of the under layer made of , for example , noble metal . the enclosing material can be uniformly electrodeposited in the nano holes . using such nano holes , magnetic mediums , quantum effect devices , optical devices and the like can be produced . the present invention enables the anodically oxidized alumina nano holes to apply to various forms , and to significantly broaden their applications . the nano structure of the present invention can be used as the functional material itself , and can also be used as an under layer material or a mold of a further novel nano structure . as described above , the present invention can provide the nano structure in which the bottoms of the nano holes are penetrated to the under layer having excellent tightness between the anodically oxidized alumina nano hole layer and the conductive under layer . also , the present invention can provide a method for easily producing the above - mentioned silicon nano structure . while the present invention has been described with reference to what are presently considered to be the preferred embodiments , it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments . on the contrary , the invention is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims . the scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions . | US-23513105-A |
an aircraft with swept back wings and spoilers inlaid into the top surface near the tips of the wings . the aircraft also includes an elevator formed in the center back portion of the aircraft , which is also aft of the spoilers . it is aft to allow an auxiliary control in the elevator signal to cancel the unwanted pitch up moment caused by the spoilers only going up and being aft of the center of gravity of the aircraft . roll is achieved with these spoilers by the direct action of the lift dumping on one side or the other and by taking advantage of the transformation of yaw into roll by the sweep back of the wings . | in accordance with an aspect of the invention , a flying wing tailless aircraft comprises an integrated fuselage / wing that generally defines the aircraft and control surfaces integrally formed therewith . fig1 is a schematic representation of a perspective view of the bottom side of a swept back aircraft 10 that can by constructed in accordance with this invention . the aircraft 10 has a longitudinal axis 12 and is provided with a central fuselage 14 positioned along the longitudinal axis . a pair of opposing swept back wings 16 , 18 extend laterally and in an aftward direction from the fuselage 14 . the wings 16 , 18 have an outer contour which blends smoothly and continuously with that of the fuselage 14 . in this respect , the fuselage 14 is completely integrated with the wings 16 , 18 . this smooth integration is contemplated to give the entire aircraft 10 an outer mold line that is free of any discontinuities in curvature . thus , the integrated fuselage / wing configuration generally defines the aircraft 10 . as such , the aircraft 10 may be characterized by having a relatively low aspect ratio and a generally diamond or kite shaped planform . the aircraft 10 is provided with an upper surface and a lower surface . the upper and the lower surfaces encompass both the fuselage 14 and the wings 16 , 18 . fig1 shows the lower surface 20 . in addition , the wings 16 , 18 include leading edges 22 , 24 , respectively . the leading edges 22 , 24 are configured to , for example , form a continuous straight contour . such a straight contour is desirable in light of radar signature mitigation considerations , i . e ., forming a low - observable aircraft . the leading edges 22 , 24 of the wings 16 , 18 along with the upper surface of the aircraft 10 generally define the aerodynamic lifting surface of the aircraft 10 . as such , the aerodynamic lifting surface is generally disposed about the fuselage 14 and the wings 16 , 18 . the wings 16 , 18 also include trailing edges 26 , 28 , respectively . [ 0015 ] fig2 is a schematic representation of a top plan view of the aircraft of fig1 . as seen in fig2 the aircraft 10 also includes control surfaces 30 , 32 and 34 that are integrally formed with the upper surface 36 of the fuselage / wing configuration . specifically , the control surfaces may include spoilers 30 , 32 that are formed on the topside of the aircraft 10 , i . e . on the upper surface 36 of the fuselage / wing configuration . preferably , the spoilers 30 , 32 are formed adjacent the trailing edges 26 , 28 , respectively of the wings 16 , 18 . the spoilers 30 , 32 each include a longitudinal axis 38 , 40 , respectively , that extends preferably parallel to the trailing edges 26 , 28 . the set of control surfaces may also include an elevator 34 formed on or adjacent an aft portion of the aircraft 10 , and more specifically on or adjacent an aft portion of the wings 16 , 18 ahead of the trailing edges 26 , 28 . the elevator 34 includes a first end that terminates at the trailing edge 26 and a second end that terminates at the trailing edge 28 . advantageously , this invention permits a reduction in the aircraft radar cross - section by providing topside spoilers 30 , 32 only and no spoilers or similar control surfaces formed on the bottom of the aircraft so that surface discontinuities in the bottom of the aircraft can be minimized . the particular problem with spoilers or other control surfaces , and particularly ones formed on the bottom of the aircraft , with regard to radar signature is that in opening they form an acute angle with the surface they rise out of . this creates a retro - reflecting structure for radar to bounce off of . advantageously , the spoilers 30 , 32 and the elevator 34 are individually movably connected to or formed on the pair of swept back wings 16 , 18 for providing roll control by taking advantage of the conversion of yaw into roll by the action of the swept back wing . this may be accomplished by the aircraft not having any additional spoilers or control surfaces . differential spoilers , such as spoilers 30 , 32 may affect the roll control in many ways . for example , the spoilers may affect the lift directly on one side or the other of the aircraft 10 and / or they may cause drag on one side or the other of the aircraft 10 . more specifically , when a spoiler on top opens up , air is deflected upward which results in a down force . for example , fig3 is a schematic representation of a side view of a portion of a wing 42 and a spoiler 44 positioned on a top surface 46 of the wing . arrows 48 , 50 , 52 and 54 illustrate air flow in the vicinity of the spoiler 44 showing how air is deflected upward with a consequent down force . another way of looking at this is the dumping of lift . the force is only down . a roll moment is produced even if the other wing is not pushing the other way . this roll moment is a function only of speed . that means when the aircraft 10 is going fast , i . e ., low angles of attack , the spoilers do not need to be raised as far up to affect a nominal role rate . in addition , the spoiler 44 causes drag . when the wing it is on is swept back , the differential drag is converted into roll . the open spoiler turns one leading edge more towards the wind , which because of the airplane &# 39 ; s sweepback , this results in a roll moment . the sweepback transforms the yaw into roll . the roll moment is thus an indirect result of the drag on one side of the aircraft . if the spoiler 44 is on the top surface 46 of the wing 42 , the two different types of roll moment described hereinabove are in the same direction and add their forces . one type of roll moment adds more at high speed , i . e ., low coefficient of lift , and the other adds more at low speeds , i . e ., high coefficient of lift . the indirect roll moment described herein has to do with the sweep back where the amount of that conversion is related to the angle of attack . the effectiveness of transforming yaw into roll improves with angle of attack . at low lift , the phenomenon of differential drag caused roll is stronger than the direct force caused moment . at high angles of attack , when the aircraft is moving slowly , the direct force is stronger . where one is strong , the other is weak . testing of models has shown that adverse yaw is essentially absent . thus , the significance of that is that the control that is least stealthy , i . e ., directional control , can be eliminated . as the angle of attack increases , the ability of the sweepback to transform yaw into roll increases as well . at fairly high angles of attack , e . g ., corresponding to landing and takeoff , the spoilers begin to lose their ability to be drag devices , but conversion is more effective . at very high angles , the difference in drag is reduced but the direct lift dumping effect remains . this effect is also available to the spoilers on a wing with ailerons , but the spoiler is usually fully devoted to canceling the adverse yaw of the ailerons and the direct lift - dumping effect is typically unnoticed . however , when the only lateral control is spoilers , such as the spoilers 30 , 32 described herein , there is no up - going wing . that is , the only change in drag is an increase in drag and that is on the down - going wing side , i . e ., the inside wing in a turn . lift spoiling as a control device can increase up until the air is no longer flowing over the surface . after that , control over roll and drag is reduced . it will be appreciated that differential spoilers do not produce adverse yaw , rather ailerons do . with conventional airplanes , when ailerons are deflected , there is no change in the angle of attack of the aircraft . the only change is aileron deflection , which affects the wing &# 39 ; s camber . on one side the camber is changed so that the wing lifts more , while on the other , less . it is the reduced lift on one side and the increased lift on the other that introduces a differential of drag , namely because increased lift is always associated with increased drag no matter where you are on the lift curve . on the other hand , when topside only spoilers rise up , they are always being drag devices . when one surface is acting , the other wing has no control surface movement . it may be observed that the side with no change is not really going up , rather the other wing is dropping . the roll is one where the center of gravity of the airplane drops with every change in bank angle . the preferred planform of the aircraft 10 is a diamond shape , although it will be appreciated that other shapes may be utilized with the invention . the diamond shape allows the elevator 34 to be aft of the spoilers 30 , 32 while at the same time retaining the stealthy flying wing shape . the elevator 34 has to be aft of the spoilers 20 , 32 to cancel the up moment created by the spoilers . normally spoilers are deployed on both top and bottom sides of the wing so that when surfaces are actuated , the pitch moment forces cancel . here the spoilers 30 , 32 go up only . that canceling is done by the elevator 34 . experimental tests were performed with flying models to demonstrate the invention . one model aircraft was constructed as illustrated in fig1 and 2 , i . e ., having spoilers 30 , 32 formed on the top surface 36 of the aircraft 10 and used in association with the elevator 34 . another model was constructed having conventional elevons and no spoilers to demonstrate a baseline of performance . with the conventional elevon model , the roll at high lift coefficients is accompanied by a strong adverse yaw , which must be kept in check by a substantial fin . with the model having topside spoilers only , however , full roll control was obtained without any fins at all . several flights were made with both models and it was apparent that the topside only spoilers model was easier to control and maintained more spiral stability . for control , it exhibited essentially no bad characteristics . in terms of performance , the power level setting for maintaining level flight was about the same as for the conventional model . since the establishing of a bank angle takes very little time , compared to the total flight time , any reduction in efficiency is difficult to observe . however , as noted , there was no need for any fin at all . that is , whatever directional stability value is available with the swept back wing , that is all that is needed when the roll device is free of any adverse yaw . on the models , the canceling of the up pitch ( caused by the fact that the spoilers only go up ) was accomplished without modifying anything . the transmitter is programmable and advantage was taken of that by coupling the lateral controls ( connected to the spoilers ) with the elevator so that if either spoiler went up , the elevator went down a bit . trial and error determining the exact amount of mixing . this arrangement was evaluated on two other configurations : a high aspect ratio straight wing flying wing , and a medium aspect ratio swept back flying wing . all three configurations had the elevator behind the spoilers . it was most successful on the diamond shape . the invention encompasses a method for providing roll control of the low - observable aircraft 10 having a pair of swept back wings 16 , 18 . the method includes positioning a spoiler on a top surface of each of the pair of swept back wings and positioning an elevator on an aft portion of the pair of swept back wings 16 , 18 . in accordance with an embodiment of the invention , the elevator is positioned generally aft of the spoilers and generally disposed symmetrically between the spoilers . the method also includes individually operating each of the spoilers and the elevon to provide roll control of the low - observable aircraft by taking advantage of the swept back wing &# 39 ; s ability to convert yaw movement into roll . whereas particular embodiments of this invention have been described above for purposes of illustration , it will be evident to those skilled in the art that numerous variations of the details of the present invention may be made without departing from the invention as defined in the appended claims . | US-45617603-A |
the present invention concerns a composite cement paving with photocatalytic action for reducing urban polluting agents , composed of a bituminous or cement foundation , a resin having the function of interface , a superficial cement layer with photocatalytic properties able to reduce organic and inorganic polluting agents , said paving also comprising reinforcing materials and possible suitably positioned fibrous materials . the paving thus realised presents a strong photocatalytic action , prolonged overtime , even in the presence of high mechanical stress caused by heavy traffic . | the foundation layer ( i ) does not have different requirements from those of ordinary urban or extra - urban pavings ; it may therefore be an ordinary road or pedestrian paving ( for example road , motorway , hardstand , parking area , garage , access ramp , pavement , pedestrian area , etc . ); it may be a pre - existing layer or it may be created on purpose ; it may have a continuous and uniform morphology such as that of a layer of asphalt or concrete or a discontinuous and non uniform morphology such as that of paving blocks . as may be seen below , in the present invention , any deformation under load of the foundation layer is not detrimental to the performance of the top photocatalytic layer and its lasting activity . the resin ( or primer ) is preferably chosen among epoxy and polyurethane resins ; they are typically two - component resins , preferably with low viscosity , which facilitates their spreading , for example using spray systems . typically the resin to be used according to the invention presents a viscosity between 200 and 1200 mpa per sec ., more preferably between 500 and 900 mpa per sec ., and even more preferably equal to about 720 mpa per sec ., assessed according to standard iso 9371 , at 25 ° c . the modulus of elasticity ( calculated when the resin is hardened ) is preferably between 3000 and 3500 mpa at room temperature . the tensile strength of the hardened resin after 7 days is preferably between 40 and 80 mpa , more preferably equal to about 60 mpa . examples of such products are epoxy resins of the fast type ( tecnoresyn , bakelite ). a further component of the layer ( ii ) is a reinforcing material , for example composed of metal wires even in the form of a mesh . the reinforcing material may be a real mesh , for example a metal mesh of stainless or galvanised steel ; as an example without limitation , reference may be made to meshes with links having an opening between 10 and 50 mm , preferably between 20 and 30 mm , and with wire diameter between 0 . 5 and 2 mm , preferably between 0 . 8 and 1 . 2 mm . alternatively the reinforcing material may be a set of filaments of suitable length ( for example between 1 and 20 metres ) and diameter as indicated above which , when laid on the foundation layer , form a mesh by simple superimposition ; in this case the interaction is ensured by their connection with the resin and with the photocatalytic layer on top . the reinforcing material may alternatively be composed of independent fibres , for example stainless or galvanised steel . as an example without limitation , the diameter of the fibres is between 0 . 5 and 1 mm , preferably between 0 . 2 and 0 . 5 mm ; their length is generally between 10 and 50 mm , for example 30cm . the surface layer ( iii ) comprises a photocatalyst , that is a substance which in the presence of light and air is able to catalyse a decomposition reaction of one or more pollutants present in the environment , whether they be of inorganic or organic nature ; examples of these pollutants are aromatic polycondensates , aldehydes , carbon black which may be assimilated to pm10 , nitrogen oxides ( no x ) and sulphur oxides ( so x ). a preferred example of a photocatalyst is titanium dioxide , which is preferably used , prevalently or totally , in the form of anatase . in a particularly preferred aspect of the invention the particles of photocatalyst are particles of 100 % titanium anatase , with nanometric dimensions , such as to present a specific surface between 5 and 350 m 2 / gr , more preferably between 100 and 300 m 2 / gr . in a preferred aspect of the invention , tio 2 pc 105 by millennium inorganic chemical was used . the quantity of photocatalyst present in the photocatalytic cement composition is not critical , though it is desirable to use low quantities for cost reasons . preferably , the cement composition according to the present invention contains from 0 . 1 % to 20 % by weight with respect to the total of the components of layer ( iii ) in the dry state , more particularly from 0 . 3 % to 3 %, for example around 1 . 5 % of photocatalyst . in the present text , the term “ binder ” or “ hydraulic binder ” means a pulverised material in the solid , dry state which , when mixed with water , supplies plastic mixtures that are able to set and harden , even under water , for example a cement . the term “ cement composition ” ( or “ cement mix ” or “ mix ”) means a composition in which a binder is mixed with water and aggregates of various granule size . the “ aggregates ” ( or “ inert materials ” or “ inert aggregates ”, all synonyms according to the present invention ), may be fine aggregates , such as sand and filler , and classified according to standard uni en 206 . examples of mixes are mortars ( mixtures comprising binder , water and fine aggregate ), and concretes ( mixtures comprising water , binder , fine aggregate and coarse aggregate ). the “ clinker ” used to prepare a binder for the present invention is any clinker of portland cement thus defined according to standard uni en 197 . 1 and that is a hydraulic material composed of at least two thirds of the mass of calcium silicates ( 3cao sio 2 ) and ( 2cao sio 2 ), the remaining part being al 2 o 3 , fe 2 o 3 and other oxides . the definition of “ hydraulic binder ” according to the present invention includes both cements ( white , grey or pigmented ) defined according to the already mentioned standard uni en 197 . 1 and the so - called cements for dikes , cement binders and hydraulic lime as defined in italian law no . 595 of 26 may 1965 and inorganic silicates . in the present text the term “ in mass ” indicates the photocatalyst is added to the mass of the binder , or of the cement compositions according to the present invention , and is therefore distributed in the entire mass , that is also in the internal and deep layers , and not only on the surface of the present premix , and therefore of the cement compositions obtained from them . in a preferred aspect of the invention the photocatalytic cement tx millennium is used , which is marketed by the applicant and comprises the hydraulic binder and titanium dioxide useful for decomposing urban pollutants . in the photocatalytic cement composition of the surface layer ( iii ) there may be accelerating additives , setting regulators , fluidifying agents , super fluidifying agents , and other typical additives of mortars and concretes . the use of setting and hardening accelerants is particularly appreciated as it allows to reduce the surface setting time , and therefore the time in which the treated surface is not open to traffic . the typical accelerants known in the art may be used , for example cacl 2 or ca ( no 3 ) 2 ; the accelerant dosing depends on the environment temperature , as is known in the cement sector ; for example at 20 ° c . on average between 0 . 5 % and 3 % by weight is used , calculated with respect to the cement . among the optional components of the surface layer , a fibrous material must be mentioned , this term meaning independent fibres of various length distributed in the mass of the layer ( iii ). irrespective of its reinforcing function , this material is useful for combating the phenomenon of shrinkage . preferably , fibres with a low modulus of elasticity may be used , for example polypropylene with length from 3 mm to 25 mm , preferably between 4 and 10 mm , in quantities from 0 . 5 to 10 kg / m 3 with respect to the cement mortar in the fresh state . the thickness of the layer ( iii ), once set , is preferably comprised between 5 mm and 50 mm , more preferably between 10 mm and 30 mm , even more preferably between 12 mm and 20 mm . the process of preparing the paving described above is a further object of the invention . this process comprises the following passages : ( a ) applying a resin and a reinforcing material on a foundation layer . ( b ) applying on the resulting layer a fresh cement composition comprising a photocatalyst . the foundation layer may be a pre - existing layer or it may be created on purpose . in the case of pre - existing foundations , it is advisable to carry out a suitable cleaning / washing operation to eliminate dust , oils or other extraneous material present on the surface ; it is also possible to carry out milling ( scarification ) of the surface , according to methods and with equipment commonly used in the field of road maintenance : this contributes to flatten surfaces deformed due to the presence of localised sinking . these operations are useful but not indispensable for obtaining the results of the invention . if the foundation is created on purpose , it is made according to the techniques commonly used , depending on whether it is an asphalt road , a pavement , block paving , a cement surface , etc . in passage ( a ), a layer of resin and a reinforcing material are applied on said foundation . these two elements may be laid in any order however , considering the limited time for the resin to set , it is preferably to lay first the reinforcing material and then the resin . in laying the reinforcing material , it is possible to insert spacers between the mesh and the foundation , for example plastic spacers , so that the mesh is fixed in position at a slight distance ( for example 3 - 4 mm ) from the foundation ; the reinforcing material may also be anchored to the edges of the area concerned using a nail gun or similar means , to the advantage of further solidity of the structure as a whole . the resin is laid according to means known in the sector , preferably by spraying with suitable lances or spray pumps ; for example , depending on the foundation to be treated , it may be used in quantities between 50 and 600 gr / m 2 , preferably between 100 and 300 gr / m 2 . in phase ( b ), on the foundation thus prepared , the photocatalytic cement layer , which may preferably have thixotropic characteristics , is laid . this is made beforehand from dry or premixed mixtures containing the components described above in point ( iii ), made fluid or thixotropic and homogeneous by mixing with suitable quantities of water . when the fibrous material is present , it is preferably already included in the dry premixes , however the possibility of adding it separately to fresh cement mixes that do not contain it is not excluded . the mixes in the fresh state resulting from mixing with water are typically mortars , comprising water and the above - mentioned photocatalyst , hydraulic binder , aggregates such as , for example , sand , cement additives . the water / binder ratios are those currently used for preparing mortars or similar fresh cement mixes , and are generally between 0 . 3 and 0 . 45 . the quantity of hydraulic binder with respect to the total dry mixture may vary between 30 and 45 % in weight . the mixture thus prepared is applied in the fresh state on the foundation already covered with the reinforcing material and with the resin still not hardened ; considering the rapid setting time of the resin , it is advisable that the fresh cement composition be prepared separately before activating the resin , and kept as such , ready for casting , until it is time to lay it . the layer ( iii ) is applied according to techniques and with machinery currently in use , for example machines for automatic spreading possibly equipped with laser control , systems for manual spreading , for example vibrating sieves , etc . spreading may be completed by preparing joints , according to the techniques currently in use , for example with metal blades with a triangular section , and with a final operation of surface finishing , also per se known . after a suitable setting time of the surface and of the resin below , the paving is ready to be opened to pedestrian and / or vehicle traffic . the paving structures realised according to the invention are able to reduce the organic and inorganic pollutants present in the environment , such as aromatic polycondensates , aldehydes , carbon black which may be assimilated to pm10 , nitrogen oxides ( no x ) and sulphur oxides ( so x ). when titanium dioxide is used as a photocatalyst , the effect is particularly intense with respect to no x . a further object of the invention is therefore the use of a paving as described above to reduce the organic and inorganic pollutants present in the environment , the invention described above has allowed the realisation of pavings with photocatalytic surface layers with an intermediate thickness , typically between 5 and 50 mm , preferably between 10 and 30 mm , more preferably between 12 and 20 mm , thick enough to resist phenomena of surface abrasion , though avoiding all excess of photocatalyst linked to the formation of layers that are too thick . at the same time , the photocatalytic layer presents a high consistence and hardness in the presence of heavy mechanical stress thanks to its high homogenisation with the layers below . in this situation , any deformation of the foundation layer under load does not in any way detract from the adhesiveness and coherence of the photocatalytic layer . therefore , even in conditions of consistent traffic of heavy vehicles , the paving maintains lasting high consistency and a homogeneous surface and high photocatalytic activity . the invention is now described with reference to the following examples without limitation . a rapid photocatalytic cement mortar was prepared for the surface layer of the composite paving according to the following formula : mixture a % of the total cement tx ( millenium ) 36 . 08 quartz aggregates 47 . 83 cacl 2 × 2h 2 o 0 . 74 superflux nf ( liq .) 0 . 73 acrylic hsp 146 ( liq ) 0 . 21 polypropylene fibres 0 . 05 added water 14 . 37 total 100 total water 15 . 2 the water / cement ratio is 0 . 42 ; the polypropylene fibres have a low modulus of elasticity . an accelerating additive has been added to this mixture . the mortar was prepared in a forced mixer , first putting all the solid material into the bowl of the mixture and then , after starting rotating the mixture , the additives and the water . the fibres were added to the dry material . a second photocatalytic cement mortar was prepared for the surface layer of the composite paving according to the following formula : mixture b % of the total cements tx ( millenium ) 30 . 97 quartz aggregates 57 . 52 superflux nf ( liq .) 0 . 63 acrylic hsp 146 ( liq ) 0 . 19 pp fibres 0 . 05 added water 10 . 64 total 100 total water 15 . 2 the no x and no 2 reducing properties where tested for some samples of the photocatalytic composite paving structure of the invention , comprising a surface layer with a base of cement compositions , as described in examples 1 and 2 . the analysis of no x and of no 2 salts is carried out with a monitor labs model 8440e instrument which works on the principle of chemiluminescence detection . the instrument has four sensitivity intervals : from 0 . 2 to 5 ppm ( parts per million ); from 0 . 1 to 10 ppm ; from 0 . 05 to 5 ppm ; from 0 . 2 to 10 ppm ; depending on the selected sensitivity intervals , the instrument precision is 4 ppb ( parts per billion ) out of 100 ppb or 2 . 5 ppb out of 400 ppb in the following scheme i , as illustrated in fig2 , the method for measuring the degree of reduction of no x and no 2 by photocatalytic action is described . a — is a mixing chamber where a mixture of no / no 2 or of no 2 salts is diluted in air to give the established quantity of pollutants . the experimental procedure adopted contemplates the use of small cylinders ( 2 - 5 l ) containing pure no and no 2 which are used to fill a vacuum line with pure gas chamber . from this line , the quantities of gas to be diluted in air through the entry p of the chamber , are taken by means of sampling vials . b — is the reaction chamber ( 1 . 5 l or 3 . 5 l ) containing the photocatalyst sample , the experimental details of which are illustrated in fig1 . the set - up illustrated in scheme i can work both in conditions of continuous flow and with gas recirculation . the first case in illustrated in scheme i : if the gas flow follows path 1 , the quantity of no x can be measured at the entry of the reactor ; instead , through path 2 , it is possible to measure the quantity of no x at output after the gas has come in contact with the catalyst , both in the dark and under radiation . to optimise the bond between the layer of foundation paving of a bituminous nature ( asphalt ), the epoxy resin and the surface layer of cement mortar having a photocatalytic activity , the surface of the foundation paving was adequately prepared , following the indications given in the literature . for this purpose surface milling was carried out , removing a thickness of about 2 mm . the limited dimensions of the test area ( length 10 m and width 5 m ) allowed the use of a manual milling machine . at a distance of 50 cm from the shortest sides of the test area , two strips with dimensions 5 × 0 . 50 m were created , removing a layer of 4 - 5 cm from the paving . the aim of this operation was to create a connection between the bituminous mix and the asphalt test area subsequently coated with the cement mortar . the milled surface was cleaned with brushes to remove the largest particles produced by milling . the finest particles were removed using compressed air ; lastly the surface was washed with a jet of water . a mesh of stainless steel having a link opening of 25 mm and a wire diameter of 1 mm was then fixed with a nail gun . an epoxy composition based on an epoxy resin bakelite epr 05335 with a hardener type eph 04852 ( manufacturer bakelite ag ) was sprayed homogeneously onto the mesh and onto the milled foundation . the primer consumption was about 280 g / m 2 on the asphalt surface thus treated , in different zones , photocatalytic cement mortars of compositions as indicated in examples 1 and 2 were applied with a roller , with different thickness values between 10 and 20 mm . before application , each composition was mixed energetically for five minutes with a high speed agitator , until a fluid consistency was obtained . the samples of photocatalytic cement mortar / asphalt paving thus realised were then cured for seven hours at 20 ° c .± 2 ° c . and rh about 60 ± 5 %. specimens with a surface 10 cm × 10 cm were bored from the cement mortar / asphalt paving when the photocatalytic cement mortar , forming the surface layer , was completely hardened . the test surface of each specimen was inspected with an optic microscope to exclude the presence of cracks that could affect the quality of the analysis of photocatalytic efficiency . the degree of no x reduction , using the configuration of path 1 described in the experimental set - up , was assessed as follows : no x degree of reduction (%)=( no x concentration at input — no x concentration at output )/ no x concentration at input x 100 specimens prepared as described in the reduction test a were tested for the reduction of no 2 , proceeding as in a . the data of the degree of no 2 reduction , calculated as in test a ., are shown in table 2 . the tests were carried out using a mechanical vibrator able to generate a cyclic load having an amplitude varying over time according to a sinusoidal law . the vibrator was firmly anchored in the centre line of a steel frame having two support bases at about 200 cm from each other and each having an imprint on the ground of 10 × 20 cm . the imprint of the bases of the frame and their centre distance were realised inn such a way as to simulate the imprint on the ground of two wheels of an average car ( front wheel and rear wheel ). the application of the load using the frame described above allows simulation of the stress exerted on the paving by the passage of a car . type of interval of applied frequency number phase excitation stress [ kg / cm 2 ] [ hz ] of cycles 1 vertical + 0 . 04 /+ 2 . 8 14 2 000 000 2 horizontal + 0 . 13 /− 0 . 13 9 275 000 3 vertical + 0 . 04 /+ 2 . 8 14 2 000 000 4 horizontal + 0 . 13 /− 0 . 13 9 275 000 as a precautionary measure , the maximum stress applied in the case of vertical excitation was set at a value higher than that induced by an average car , which amounts to about 2 kg / cm 2 . during the performance of the fatigue tests the vibrations generated by the applied dynamic excitation are measured with seismometric triads able to measure accelerations in three directions at right angles to each other ( vertical , longitudinal , transverse ) and arranged as specified below : 2 seismometric triads on the composite paving near the support bases of the frame ( s 1 and s 3 ); 2 seismometric triads as reference , corresponding to the previous two but laid on the pre - existing asphalt ( s 2 and s 4 ). the analysis of the signals found by the four seismometric triads did not show any sign of decay of the tested composite paving . in particular , fig3 a and 3 b show , respectively for the phases 1 and 3 , the vertical signal of the seismometric triads on the tested paving ( s 1 v and s 3 v ) related to the signal obtained from the reference seismometric triads ( s 2 v and s 4 v ). the analysis of the graphs in fig3 a and 3 b shows that during the test phases there is no sign of abnormal behaviour that could be attributed to decay . the variation of the ratio that can be observed corresponding to a number of cycles of about 800 , 000 for phase 1 and about 1 , 100 , 000 for phase 3 is not of a significantly high extent and anyway its cyclic nature is compatible with variations in response induced by daily temperature cycles . on the same paving tests were also carried out to check the adhesion between the top layer of cement mortar and the pre - existing bituminous paving . these tests were carried out by measuring and analysing the vertical accelerations on the cement surface induced by an impulse stress applied with a hammer . the test was carried out on a grid of points involving the whole surface of the paving . as an example , fig4 a shows the signal measured in a point of the paving . the analysis of the top and bottom envelope contours of the signal allows the determination of the damping value ξ which may be assumed as an index of the adhesion of the top layer to the pre - existing foundation . a high damping value , signalled by a rapid approach of the envelope contours to the horizontal axis , indicates good adhesion , unlike the case in which the envelope contours get gradually closer to the horizontal axis . the damping of the signals examined may be assessed by means of the damping index ξ ; values of ξ higher than 15 are to be considered indicative of good adhesion . in the specific case of the signal in fig4 a the ξ index is 18 and , in any case , for the paving examined , values of ξ always higher than 15 have been found . on a piece of composed paving realised according to the present invention , but without the necessary adhesion between the top layer of cement mortar and the pre - existing bituminous paving ( defined pc 2 ), tests were performed according to the procedure described in example 2 . the piece of composite paving had dimensions 380 × 1200 cm . the lack of adhesion is shown by the values of the damping index ξ which are generally lower than 15 ; for example , at one of the support bases of the frame used for the test it was 5 ( fig4 b ). type of interval of applied frequency number phase excitation stress [ kg / cm 2 ] [ hz ] of cycles 1 vertical + 0 . 04 /+ 2 . 8 14 100 000 2 vertical + 0 . 04 /+ 2 . 8 14 2 000 000 3 horizontal + 0 . 13 /− 0 . 13 9 260 000 4 vertical + 0 . 04 /+ 2 . 8 14 2 000 000 the dimensions of the paving pc 2 did not allow the use of reference seismometric triads placed on the bituminous paving . the acceleration data found are therefore difficult to interpret , however visual analyses were carried out of the picture of cracking of the paving pc 2 . a few days after casting of the surface layer of cement mortar , cracks appeared due to shrinkage in a direction at a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the same paving . following the stresses induced during the test , near one of the support bases of the test frame , one of the shrinkage cracks showed a clear increase in opening , as illustrated in fig5 . with all probability , the state of the crack illustrated in fig5 is the result of the overlapping of two concurrent causes : cyclic mechanical stress and thermal deformations . in any case the lack of the necessary adhesion between the top layer of cement mortar and the pre - existing bituminous paving allowed the considerable increase of the initial opening of the shrinkage crack in the layer of cement mortar . | US-62975505-A |
a self - contained switch unit for controlling a remote illuminating lamp has , in a common housing , a main on / off switch , and has an emergency signal on / off switch in a common housing , and has a visible pilot lamp . the main on / off switch controls the on or off mode of the illuminating lamp . the emergency signal on / off switch functions , when the main on / off switch is in the on mode , to cause the controlled illuminating lamp to flash as a signal . when the controlled lamp is lighted , the pilot lamp is dark . when the controlled lamp is dark , the pilot lamp is lighted . when the controlled lamp is in the flashing mode , the pilot lamp also is in a flashing mode . | fig1 shows a self - contained switch unit 10 behind a cover plate 11 which is illustrated in phantom outline . the cover plate 11 is secured to the switch unit 10 by means of a cover plate screw 12 . the switch unit 10 is secured in a junction box 13 by means of screws 14 extending through openings in mounting brackets 15 . the switch unit 10 includes a main on / off switch 13 which is preferably a toggle switch having an on position and an off position . the main on / off switch 16 , as shown , has a toggle 16a in a housing 16b . the switch unit 10 also includes an emergency signal on / off switch 17 . the emergency signal on / off switch 17 preferably is not the same type of switch as the main on / off switch 16 . for example , if the main on / off switch 16 is a toggle switch , then the emergency signal on / off switch 17 preferably is a rocker switch . the emergency signal on / off switch , as shown , has a rocker element 17a in a housing 17b . also it is preferred that the main on / off switch 16 operating element ( e . g ., a toggle ) be of one color ( e . g ., white ) and that the emergency signal on / off switch 17 operating element be of a different color ( e . g ., red ). a pilot lamp 18 , which is provided within the switch unit 10 , can be observed through the cover plate 11 . preferably the pilot lamp 18 is integral with the housing 17b of the emergency signal on / off switch 17 . the switch unit 10 includes terminals 19 , 20 , to be connected to electrical conductors ( not shown in fig1 ), and , if desired , a ground wire terminal 21 . additional terminals 22 , 23 may be provided for using the main on / off switch 16 to control additional lamps or electrical devices which will not be subjected to the emergency signal flashing provided by the emergency signal on / off switch 17 . referring to fig2 a typical illuminating lamp 25 , mounted outside a residential house , is connected in series with a source 26 of electrical energy through conductors 27 , 28 , 29 . the conductors 27 , 28 are connected to the switch terminals 19 , 20 respectively of the switch unit 10 . three individual switches are provided within the switch unit 10 including a main on / off switch 16 , an emergency signal on / off switch 17 and a thermal bimetallic , normally open switch 30 . the main on / off switch 16 connects the terminal 19 to an intermediate terminal 31 . the normally closed emergency signal on / off switch 17 connects the terminal 20 to the intermediate terminal 31 . the thermal bimetallic switch 30 connects the terminal 20 to the intermediate terminal 31 and thus is assembled in parallel with the emergency signal on / off switch 17 . the thermal bimetallic normally open switch 30 has a bimetallic conductor 32 which is secured to a switch contact 33 and is normally spaced - apart from a switch contact 34 . a high resistance heating wire 35 is connected to the contacts 33 , 34 and is in a heat transferring relationship with the bimetallic conductor 32 . when a significant electric current flows through the high resistance heating wire 35 , the bimetallic conductor 32 becomes heated and moves toward engagement with the switch contact 34 , thus closing an electrical circuit between the intermediate terminal 31 and the terminal 20 . a pilot lamp 18 , preferably a gas - glow lamp , is connected in series with a high resistance 36 ( several thousand ohms ) between the terminals 19 , 20 . so long as the main on / off switch 16 is open , the pilot lamp 18 will be illuminated because the pilot lamp 18 and resistance 36 are connected across the terminals 19 , 20 . when the main on / off switch 16 is closed and the emergency signal on / off switch 17 is in its normal closed position , the voltage applied across the terminals 19 , 20 divides the current through ( a ) the low resistance passage from the terminal 19 through the main on / off switch 16 , the intermediate terminal 31 and the emergency signal on / off switch 17 and ( b ) the alternative path through the pilot lamp 18 and the high resistance 36 . insufficient current flows through the pilot lamp 18 and high resistance 36 to eliminate the pilot lamp 18 when the illuminating lamp 25 is on . hence , the pilot lamp 18 is off when the illuminating lamp is on . alternatively when the illuminating lamp 26 is off as a result of open switches in the switch unit 10 , the voltage between terminals 19 , 20 applied across the pilot lamp 18 and the high resistance 36 is sufficient so that the pilot lamp 18 will be on . the alternative terminals 22 , 23 are connected through a second on / off switch 37 which is mechanically ganged to the main on / off switch 16 . the second on / off switch 37 is connected between the terminals 19 , 22 . the other alternative terminal 23 is connected by a conductor 41 to the terminal 20 . lamps or other devices 39 are connected through conductors 38 , 41 to the alternative terminals 22 , 23 . when the main on / off switch 16 is closed , the second on / off switch 37 also is closed to complete a circuit through the lamps or other devices 39 which is unaffected by the emergency on / off switch 17 . the main on / off switch 16 is open ( i . e ., in the off position ) and the emergency signal on / off switch 17 is closed , preferably closed . no current passes between the terminals 19 , 20 except through the resistor 36 and pilot lamp 18 . sufficient current passes through the pilot lamp 18 to cause it to be continuous lighted . thus with the illuminating lamp 25 inactive , the pilot lamp 18 will be continuously glowing , provided that the illuminating lamp 25 is not burned out . the current flowing through the illuminating lamp 25 is insufficient to cause lighting . if the illuminating lamp 25 is burned out , then the pilot lamp 18 will not glow when the main on / off switch 16 is open ( i . e ., in the off position ). the main on / off switch 16 is closed ( i . e ., in the off position ) allowing current to flow from the terminal 19 through the main on / off switch 16 and through the normally closed emergency signal on / off switch 17 to the terminal 20 to complete a low resistance path for the illuminating lamp 25 . thus the illuminating lamp 25 is on . insufficient current passes through the pilot lamp 18 because it is in a high resistance path parallel to the described low resistance path . when the operator desires that the illuminating lamp 25 function in the emergency signal flashing mode , the emergency signal on / off switch 17 is moved from its normally closed position to the alternative open position so that the only connection between the terminal 20 and the intermediate terminal 31 is through the thermal , bimetallic switch 30 . the thermal bimetallic switch 30 has a switch arm 32 which is formed from two metallic strips secured together . the differential thermal expansion of the two metallic strips in the switch arm 32 causes the arm to move when heated toward a closed position engaging the switch contact 34 . when the switch arm 32 reaches a closed position and creates a low resistance path between contacts 33 , 34 , electrical current passes through the switch arm 32 . when the emergency signal on / off switch 17 is open , a first alternative path is provided from the terminal 20 through the switch contact 33 , the high resistance heating wire 35 , the switch contact 34 to the intermediate terminal 31 . the current flowing through the high resistance heating wire 35 heats the thermal bimetallic switch arm 32 causing it to engage the switch contact 34 to provide a low resistance path in parallel to the high resistance heating wire 35 . in this condition , insufficient current passes through the high resistance heating wire 35 ; the thermal bimetallic switch arm 32 cools and separates from engagement with the switch contact 34 thus interrupting the low resistance path so that the illuminating lamp 25 is lighted . the high resistance heating wire 35 reheats to repeat the flashing on / off cycle . the terminals 19 , 20 divide the current through ( a ) a high resistance path including the resistor 36 and pilot lamp 18 ; and ( b ) the high resistance heating wire 35 so that heat is generated in the wire 35 and the pilot lamp 18 is lighted . when the thermal bimetallic switch arm engages the switch contact 34 , the resulting low resistance path reduces the current flowing through the pilot lamp 18 causing it to darken . in the illuminating lamp on mode , the illuminating lamp 25 is on and the pilot lamp 18 is off . in the illuminating lamp off mode , the illuminating lamp 25 is off and the pilot lamp 18 is on . in the emergency signal mode , the illuminating lamp 25 flashes and the pilot lamp 18 also flashes . thus from inspection of the switch unit 10 , the operator can determine the instantaneous condition of the illuminating lamp 25 by observing the visible indications of the pilot lamp 18 . the operation of independent electrical devices 39 is independent of the emergency signal control provided by the emergency signal on / off switch 17 so that the electrical devices 39 operate solely under the control of the second on / off switch 37 which is operated by the main on / off switch 16 . the switch unit is particularly useful for indicating a need for assistance . neighbors , observing an outdoor lamp flashing , can be alerted to assist the homeowner . the switch unit also is useful when there is a need to identify the location of the house for prompt , certain direction to emergency professionals . | US-90699686-A |
a quick release structure for use in the saw blade guard assembly of a table saw is disclosed to include a mounting member affixed to the base of the table saw , a coupling block detachably attached to the mounting member to hold a pivoted attachment member , for example , a saw blade guard , and a rotary locking member mounted in the coupling block and rotatable relative the coupling block between two positions to lock the coupling block to the mounting member or to release the coupling block . | as shown in fig2 - 17 , a saw blade guard assembly 100 in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention comprises a mounting member 10 , a first coupling block 20 , a second coupling block 30 , two rotary locking members 40 , a return member 46 , a guard 50 , two detents 60 , and a biasing member 62 . the mounting member 10 , the coupling blocks 20 and 30 , the rotary locking members 40 and the return member 46 constitute a quick release structure . the mounting member 10 has a body 12 . the body 12 is inserted with its bottom end into the inside of the base of the table saw ( not shown ), having two retaining holes 14 near the top , two top notches 16 respectively formed on the topmost edge above and in communication with the retaining holes 14 , and two hook portions 18 respectively suspending in between the retaining holes 14 and the top notches 16 . the first coupling block 20 has a top surface 201 , a bottom surface 202 , a clamping groove 21 formed on the bottom surface 202 for securing the body 12 of the mounting member 10 , a through hole 22 cut through the top surface 201 and the bottom surface 202 in communication with the clamping groove 21 , a first stop block 23 and a second stop block 24 upwardly protruding from the top surface 201 and defining a first stop portion and a second stop portion respectively , and a countersunk groove 25 formed on the top surface 201 in communication with the through hole 22 . the through hole 22 is a stepped hole having an upper section 221 of relatively smaller diameter and a lower section 222 of relatively greater diameter . further , an axle sleeve 26 is transversely fastened to the first coupling block 20 near its rear end ( see fig2 ) to work as a mounting portion of the first coupling block 20 . a pivot pin 52 is fastened to the axle sleeve 26 to pivotally connect one end of a link 51 to the first coupling block 20 . the other end of the link 51 is pivotally connected to an attachment member , i . e . the guard 50 . the second coupling block 30 is substantially similar to the first coupling block 20 . as shown in fig8 , the second coupling block 30 has a clamping groove 31 , a through hole 32 , a first stop block 33 , a second stop block 34 , a countersunk groove 35 , and an axle sleeve 36 . the second coupling block 30 further has two protruding rods 37 respectively extended from two opposite lateral sides . the two rotary locking members 40 are identical and respectively inserted through the through hole 22 of the first coupling block 20 and the through hole 32 of the second coupling block 30 , each including a retaining rod 41 and a lug 44 . the arrangement between one rotary locking member 40 and the first coupling block 20 is explained hereinafter . because the arrangement between the other rotary locking member 40 and the second coupling block 20 is similar to the arrangement between one rotary locking member 40 and the first coupling block 20 , no further detailed description in this regard is necessary . the retaining rod 41 has a rod body 42 , which has an outer diameter approximately equal to the upper section 221 of the through hole 22 of the first coupling block 20 and is inserted into the upper section 221 of the through hole 22 of the first coupling block 20 , and a protrusion head 43 disposed at the bottom end of the rod body 42 and suspending in the lower section 222 of the through hole 22 of the first coupling block 20 . the protrusion head 43 works as the retaining portion of the rotary locking member 40 . the lug 44 works as the pushable portion of the rotary locking member 40 . the lug 44 is affixed to the rod body 42 of the retaining rod 41 with a pin 45 , having a rod 441 for turning by the user . the return member 46 according to this embodiment is a torsion spring mounted in the countersunk groove 25 of the first coupling block 20 and adapted to impart a return force to the lug 44 each time the lug 44 is biased by an external force . when the lug 44 receives no external pressure , the rod 441 is stopped at the first stop block 23 in a first position p 1 , as shown in fig1 - 12 . at this time , the protrusion head 43 is engaged with one hook portion 18 of the mounting member 10 ( see fig1 ), thus the first coupling block 20 is not detachable from the mounting member 10 . on the contrary , when giving a pressure to the rod 441 against the aforesaid return force , the lug 44 is moved from the first position p 1 , as shown in fig1 , to a second position p 2 and stopped at the second stop block 24 , as shown in fig1 - 15 . at this time , the protrusion head 43 is disposed in a crossed manner relative to the body 12 of the mounting member 10 ( see fig1 ) and disengaged from the corresponding hook portion 18 of the mounting member 10 ( see fig1 ), allowing removal of the first coupling block 20 with the guard 50 from the mounting member 10 . therefore , the invention allows quick dismounting of the guard from the table saw . the two detents 60 are respectively pivotally connected to the two opposite ends of the axle sleeve 36 in the second coupling block 30 by a pin 61 . the biasing member 62 is mounted on the axle sleeve 36 and stopped against the detents 60 to force the detents 60 against the protruding rods 37 respectively . as shown in fig1 and 17 , the method of dismounting the detents 60 is similar to the way of dismounting the guard 50 , i . e ., operate the rod 441 of the associating rotary locking member 40 to turn the associating lug 44 from the first position p 1 to the second position p 2 . during rotation of the lug 44 , the head 43 is moved from the position shown in fig1 to the position shown in fig1 where the protrusion head 43 is disengaged from the corresponding hook portion 18 of the mounting member 10 , allowing removal of the second coupling block 30 with the two detents 60 from the mounting member 10 . on the contrary , when wanting to install the guard 50 or the detents 60 in the mounting member 10 , for example , when wanting to install the guard 50 in the mounting member 10 , operate the rod 441 to hold the lug 44 in the second position p 2 , and then move the first coupling block 20 toward the body 12 of the mounting member 10 . when moving the first coupling block 20 toward the body 12 of the mounting member 10 , the protrusion head 43 is intersected with the body 12 at right angles ( see fig1 and 15 ), and therefore the protrusion head 43 of the associating rotary locking member 40 is moved through the associating top notch 15 into the associating retaining hole 13 . when the protrusion head 43 is inserted into the associating retaining hole 13 , release the rod 441 for enabling the return member 46 to return the lug 44 from the second position p 1 to the first position p 1 . when the lug 44 reaches the first position p 1 , the protrusion head 43 is forced into engagement with the associating hook portion 18 of the mounting member 10 again ( see fig1 ), thereby finishing the installation of the guard 50 . fig1 - 20 show a saw blade guard assembly 100 ′ in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention . according to this embodiment , the saw blade guard assembly 100 ′ comprises a mounting member 70 , a coupling block 80 , a rotary locking member 90 , a return member 96 , two detents 110 , and a biasing member 112 . the mounting member 70 , the coupling block 80 , the rotary locking member 90 and the return member 96 constitute a quick release structure . the mounting member 70 has a body 71 and a retaining hole 72 on the body 71 near its top side . the coupling block 80 has a bottom clamping groove 81 for securing the body 71 of the mounting member 70 , a stepped through hole 82 , which has an upper section 821 of relatively smaller diameter and a lower section 822 of relatively greater diameter for accommodating the rotary locking member 90 , a top cover plate 83 , which constitutes the top surface of the coupling block 80 and has an arched slot 831 , an axle sleeve 84 fixedly provided near the rear side and working as a mounting portion of the coupling block 80 , two protruding rods 85 respectively extended from two opposite lateral sides near the front , and a countersunk groove 86 . the rotary locking member 90 includes a retaining rod 91 and a lug 94 . the lug 94 is fixedly connected to the top end of the retaining rod 91 , forming the pushable portion of the rotary locking member . the retaining rod 91 has a rod body 92 and a protrusion head 93 . the rod body 92 has a diameter approximately equal to the upper section 821 of the through hole 82 , and is inserted through the upper section 821 of the through hole 82 . the protrusion head 93 is radially extended from the bottom end of the retaining rod 91 and suspending in the lower section 822 of the through hole 82 . the protrusion head 93 works as a retaining portion of the rotary locking member 90 . the lug 94 has a top rod 95 extending out of the arched slot 831 of the cover plate 83 for operation by the user to turn the lug 94 and the retaining rod 91 in the through hole 82 . the two ends of the arched slot 831 form a first stop portion and a second stop portion of the coupling block 80 respectively . thus , the user can move the top rod 95 along the arched slot 831 between a first position p 1 where the rod 95 is stopped at one end of the arched slot 831 ( see fig1 ) and a second position p 2 where the rod 95 is stopped at the other end of the arched slot 831 ( see fig2 ). further , a return member 96 is mounted in the countersunk groove 86 of the coupling block 80 and adapted to impart a return force to the lug 94 , biasing the lug 94 toward the first position p 1 . the detents 110 are respectively pivotally connected to the two opposite ends of the axle sleeve 84 of the coupling block 80 by a pin 111 . the biasing member 112 is mounted on the axle sleeve 84 , having two opposite ends respectively hooked in a respective hook hole 110 a on each of the detents 110 . thus , the biasing member 112 imparts a biasing force the detents 110 against the protruding rods 85 respectively . when the rod 95 receives no external force , the rod 95 is stopped at one end of the arched slot 831 in the first position p 1 . at this time , the rod body 92 of the retaining rod 91 is disposed at one side of the body 71 of the mounting member 70 , and the protrusion head 93 of the rotary locking member 90 is engaged into the retaining hole 72 ( see fig1 ) to lock the coupling block 80 to the mounting member 70 . when moving the rod 95 along the arched slot 831 from the first position p 1 to the second position p 2 against the return force of the return member 96 ( see fig2 ), the retaining rod 91 is rotated to disengage the protrusion head 93 from the retaining hole 72 , allowing removal of the coupling block 80 from the mounting member 70 . on the contrary , when wanting to install the coupling block 80 in the mounting member 70 , operate the rod 95 to hold the lug 94 in the second position p 2 , and then attach the clamping groove 81 of the coupling block 80 to the topmost edge of the body 71 of the mounting member 70 , and then release the rod 95 for enabling the return member 96 to return the lug 94 to the first position p 1 to force the protrusion head 93 into engagement with the retaining hole 72 , and therefore the coupling block 80 is locked to the mounting member 70 . as indicated , the quick release structure of the present invention allows quick mounting and dismounting of two detachable members ( for example , the guard and the mounting member ) without using tools , thereby saving much mounting and dismounting time . the invention being thus described , it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways . such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention , and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims . | US-72381407-A |
the invention relates to a shutter actuator including a translatably guided carriage rigidly connected to the shaft in the housing , and comprises : a rack that meshes with the cog of the outlet shaft linked to the flap of the shutter ; a bearing for a triggering spring ; a bearing member for a cocking member that drives the carriage ; and a locking notch for receiving a locking member supported by a locking arm . | according to fig1 , the invention relates to an actuator 1 for controlling the closure of the flap 2 - 1 of a fire stop valve 2 in accordance with actuation signals which are linked to events such as the external temperature or the internal temperature at one side or the other of the valve , an electrical actuation operation which originates from a central station or other signals of this type , and also manual actuation . the actuator 1 comprises , accommodated in a casing 3 , a control circuit 5 and a carriage 10 which ensure the combination of the actions to be applied to the flap 2 - 1 of the valve 2 . this carriage 10 is normally ready to be actuated in order to drive the flap 2 - 1 and ensure the closure or , if necessary , after a closure operation , the reopening of the flap . the actuator 1 comprises an actuation means and an arming means and a closure torque generator . the arming movement involves placing the carriage in an arming position , storing energy for an optional actuation operation , and placing the valve in an open position . the actuation movement involves , from the arming position , releasing the actuator , that is to say , the carriage 10 which allows the closure movement of the flap of the valve to be ensured with the stored mechanical energy . the various actions are brought about by means of the carriage 10 which combines the action of the torque generator for the valve , that of the arming means and that of the actuation means , the control of the operations being ensured by the control circuit 5 which receives the sgi signals linked with events , processes these signals and generates control signals sc 1 , sc 2 . a manual actuation of operational control allows the carriage 10 to be released directly regardless of the signals sent by the control circuit 5 . the carriage 10 and the various means are accommodated in the casing 3 which is provided with an arming crank handle which is not illustrated as well as connection means for the sensors which provide the sgi signals and the supply al which ensures the electrical power supply and also the mechanical connection means between the output shaft 4 and the flap of the valve 2 . according to fig1 , the actuator 1 comprises a carriage 10 which is guided in translation in the direction d in order to carry out an arming movement ( arrow a ) or an actuation movement ( arrow b ). the carriage 10 comprises : a rack 11 which engages with a pinion 20 which is carried by the output shaft 4 which is connected to the flap 2 - 1 of the valve 2 and an abutment 13 for a spring 70 which acts as a spring for storage of mechanical actuation energy , acting in the translation direction d in the actuation direction b , an abutment member 12 for an arming member 30 which drives the carriage 10 from the actuated position to the arming position thereof ( direction a ) in order to become separated at the end of movement of the abutment member 12 , and a locking recess 14 - 1 for receiving a locking member 42 carried by a locking arm 40 which is controlled in the locking direction and unlocking direction by a solenoid actuator 60 in accordance with actuation signals sc 1 provided by a control circuit 5 . the locking arm 40 is pivotably mounted about a pivot 41 of the casing 3 . the arm 40 is urged by a spring 44 towards the locking position thereof , that is to say , the position in which the locking member 42 thereof is engaged in the locking recess 14 - 1 . the actuator 1 also comprises a lever 50 which co - operates , on the one hand , with the solenoid actuator 60 which retains the lever in the locking position and , on the other hand , with a spring 53 which urges the lever 50 towards the unlocked position and drives the arm 40 towards the unlocked position thereof . the actuator 1 comprises a control circuit 5 which ensures the actuation command by a signal sc 1 which acts on the solenoid actuator 60 in order to release it briefly and a signal sc 2 which controls the actuation member 30 for its arming movement of the carriage 10 then its return movement which releases the carriage 10 . these various means are integrated in the casing 3 which is removably connected to the drive shaft 4 of the flap 2 - 1 of the valve 2 via an engagement connection by form - fitting , such as interlocking which is not set out in detail . according to fig1 and 2 , the carriage 10 is constituted by a plate which is in particular composed of sheet metal , which is , for example , laser cut and which is mounted so as to slide between guides 3 - 1 of the casing 3 with which the carriage 10 co - operates via its sides which form guiding edges 16 and via a rectilinear slotted member 18 which complements the guiding of the carriage and which retains it on the casing via a pin which is not illustrated and which straddles the slotted member 18 . the movement direction of the carriage 10 is illustrated by the double - headed arrow d which , depending on the movement direction , corresponds to the arming travel or the actuation travel . the carriage 10 comprises an aperture 15 , one side of which is provided with the rack 11 which is cut in terms of thickness so as to co - operate with the pinion 20 which is constituted by a toothed segment 21 . the pinion 20 carried by the output shaft 4 of the actuator is constituted by a plate in the form of a quarter circle sector 22 so that the toothed segment 21 corresponds to the pivoting movement of a quarter - turn of the flap between the open position and the closed position thereof , without reduction of movement whilst being located in the plane of the plate of the carriage 10 and in the space available constituted by the aperture 15 between the rack 11 and the edge 19 of the aperture . the travel of the carriage 10 can be limited in the actuation direction by a stop which is carried by the casing and , if necessary , by the slotted member 18 or the end of the segment 14 - 4 of the slotted member 14 . the carriage 10 also comprises a tongue 17 which is aligned in the sliding direction d and which acts as a guide for the storage spring 70 which presses via one end 71 against the casing 3 and , via the other end 72 , against the abutment 13 . the tongue 17 prevents the deflection of the powerful storage spring 70 , in particular in the compressed position . the spring 70 stores mechanical energy which urges the carriage 10 in the actuation direction ( arrow b ). one edge of the carriage 10 comprises a slotted member 14 which receives a locking member 42 which is constituted by a roller carried by the locking arm 40 whose operation will be described below . the slotted member 14 , which is generally aligned in the sliding direction d of the carriage 10 , is composed of an end which forms a recess 14 - 1 , followed by a straight portion 14 - 2 , then a ramp - like portion 14 - 3 and finally it terminates with a straight portion 14 - 4 . the recess 14 - 1 is a locking recess to hold the carriage 10 in an arming position co - operating with the roller which constitutes the locking member 42 of the arm and the ramp 14 - 3 which prepares the engagement position of the carriage 10 . finally , the carriage 10 carries the stop 12 which acts as an abutment for the rearming member 30 . the arming and actuation movements of the actuator 1 use a locking arm 40 which is illustrated alone in fig3 a and in combination with a lever 50 and the solenoid actuator 60 in two different positions in fig3 b and 3c . according to fig3 a , the locking arm 40 which co - operates with the carriage 10 is formed by a panel which is carried by a pivot 41 which is fixedly joined to the casing . the end of this panel carries the roller 42 which constitutes the locking member which is accommodated in the slotted member 14 of the carriage 10 . the locking arm 40 comprises a branch 43 which is provided with a stop 45 in the form of a pin . the locking arm 40 is urged by a spring 44 in the locking direction ( arrow r 1 ). according to fig3 b , the arm 40 co - operates with a lever 50 which is also mounted on the pivot 41 of the arm 40 . this lever 50 has two branches 51 , 52 in the form of a right - angle in this instance . the first branch 51 co - operates with the stop in the form of a pin 45 of the arm 40 and the second branch 52 co - operates with the solenoid actuator 60 . to this end , regardless of the material of the lever 50 , the branch 52 carries a ferromagnetic counter - plate 54 which is attracted by the solenoid actuator 60 . the solenoid valve 60 is fixed to the casing 3 . it normally retains the counter - plate 54 by means of its natural magnetisation and an electrical pulse ( signal sc 1 ) applied to the solenoid actuator 60 by the control circuit 5 allows its magnetic field to be neutralised for a short period of time so that the counter - plate 54 is no longer retained . the second branch 52 of the lever 50 is urged by a spring 53 which acts in the opposite direction to the magnetic attraction applied by the solenoid actuator 60 in order to pivot the arm 40 in the direction r 2 about the pivot 41 . it should be emphasised that the spring 44 applied to the lever 40 has the tendency to cause it to pivot in the engagement direction , that is to say , in the direction r 1 opposed to the direction r 2 . the geometry of the lever 50 , the arm 40 and the various elements of this assembly is such that when the lever 50 is retained by the solenoid actuator 60 by way of its counter - plate 54 , the arm 40 is urged via its spring 44 so that the stop 45 thereof is pressed against the branch 51 and so that the roller 42 is thereby accommodated in the recess 14 - 1 of the slotted member 14 and remains held at that location . in contrast , according to fig3 c , when the solenoid actuator 60 has released the ferromagnetic counter - plate 54 , the branch 52 of the lever 50 can be repelled by the spring 53 so that , by means of pivoting ( r 2 ) about the pivot 41 , the branch 51 repels the stop 45 counter to the action of the spring 44 , the spring 44 applying a torque which is less than that of the spring 53 relative to the pivot 41 . this pivoting movement of the arm 40 in the direction of the arrow r 2 thus releases the locking member 42 , that is to say , the roller 42 from the locking recess 14 - 1 of the slotted member . as soon as the counter - plate 51 is disengaged from the solenoid actuator 60 , the magnetic field is no longer sufficient to return the counter - plate 54 and the lever 50 against the solenoid actuator 60 . fig4 a - 4c illustrate in a detailed manner the elements which co - operate with the carriage 10 . fig4 a illustrates the solenoid actuator 60 which is fixed to a lug 61 which is fixedly joined to the casing . the counter - plate 54 is fixed to the branch 52 and the spring 53 is carried by a rod 62 which is fixedly joined to the lug 61 . the lug 61 is also provided with a rod 63 which acts as a guide for the spring 44 pushing against the pin 45 . this spring and the guide are split ( fig4 b ). the view from the left according to fig4 b illustrates that the locking arm 40 is formed by two plates 40 a , b of the same shape at one side and the other of the carriage 10 , carrying the roller 42 in their gap . the bottom plate 40 b of the locking arm 40 has a folded lug 46 to co - operate with an actuation means 80 which allows mechanical or manual actuation . this actuation means 80 comprises a pin 81 which is pressed against the folded lug 46 . this pin is carried by the unlocking shaft 82 which is pivotably mounted in bearings 83 . the pivoting of the unlocking shaft 82 repels the folded lug 46 via the pin 81 , thus releasing the carriage 10 . the shaft 82 is maneuvered manually via a lever or a similar member at the outer side of the casing 3 . fig4 c illustrates the shaft 81 , the shaft 82 and the perpendicularly folded lug 46 of the portion 40 b of the locking arm 40 . in addition to fig4 a - 4c , fig5 illustrates the relative arrangement of the various means acting on the carriage 10 , such as the arming member 30 , the locking arm 40 and the lever 50 thereof , the solenoid actuator 60 , the storage spring 70 and the toothed segment 21 of the pinion 20 which is connected to the output shaft 4 without a manual actuation member 80 . the position illustrated is an intermediate position which is occupied by the carriage 10 following actuation . the carriage 10 is driven in the actuation direction ( arrow b ) urged by the storage spring 70 , the locking arm 40 urged by the unlocking spring 53 which has released the roller from the locking recess 14 - 1 . this figure illustrates that the stop 12 carried by the carriage 10 has moved closer to the end 32 of the rod 31 of the arming member 30 . the actuation described can be caused by a signal sent by the control circuit 5 or a manual action on the shaft 82 of the manual actuation means 80 . fig6 a - 6d illustrate four successive positions which are characteristic of the arming movement ( direction a ) from the actuated position illustrated in fig6 a . the carriage 10 is driven by the arming member 30 which is fixedly joined to the casing and which is constituted by a back - geared motor which is provided with a rod 31 which is moved in translation in the direction a ( or then in the direction b ) by means of a screw / nut type connection which converts the rotation movement of the motor of the arming member 30 into a translation movement of the rod 31 in the direction which is dependent on the rotation direction of the electric motor , the assembly thus constituting a back - geared motor . the arming member 30 is in abutment against the stop 12 when the carriage 10 is in an actuated position , the end 32 of the rod 31 being engaged in the housing 12 - 1 in order to retain the rod 31 during the arming movement . in accordance with fig6 b , the signal sc 2 of the control circuit actuates the arming member 30 which repels the carriage 10 towards the arming position thereof ( arrow a ). according to fig6 c , the rod 32 has guided the carriage 10 into its arming position in which it remains held by the engagement of the locking member 42 of the locking arm 40 in the locking recess 14 - 1 of the slotted member ( as has been seen above ). the travel end position of the rod 31 is detected by a travel end sensor which is not illustrated and which transmits a corresponding signal to the control circuit 5 . this stops the rotation of the motor of the arming member 30 and controls ( signal sc 3 ) the rotation movement in a reverse manner in order to retract the rod 32 . according to fig6 d , the back - geared motor of the actuating member 30 retracts the rod 31 practically as far as its stop position for the carriage 10 moving into the closure position . the operation of the actuator 1 will be described in detail below for the closure sequence of the flap 2 - 1 of the valve 2 in accordance with fig7 a - 7d and for the opening sequence of the flap using fig8 a - 8d illustrating the relative movement of the carriage 10 and the pivoting of the locking arm 40 . fig7 a illustrates the initial position of the actuator 1 , assumed to be in the locked and armed state , that is to say , engaged . the carriage 10 is retracted . the storage spring 70 is compressed and pushes on the carriage 10 which is immobilised by the engagement of the roller 42 of the locking arm 40 in the recess 14 - 1 of the slotted member 14 of the carriage 10 . the storage spring 70 pushes on the carriage 10 but cannot move it . according to fig7 b , an unlocking pulse ( sc 1 ) is sent by the control circuit 5 to the solenoid actuator 60 which thus releases the counter - plate 54 of the second branch 52 . the lever 50 is able to pivot in the direction of the arrow r 2 , repelling the stop 45 counter to the action of its spring 44 , which also causes the locking arm 40 to be pivoted in the direction r 2 . the roller 42 is released from the locking recess 14 - 1 , which releases the sliding action of the carriage 10 . fig7 c illustrates that , under the action of the storage spring 70 , the carriage 10 is released and moves to the actuated position ( direction b ), that is to say , the closure position of the flap of the valve 2 . the roller 42 first travels along the straight segment 14 - 2 at the outlet of the locking recess 14 - 1 , then the segment 14 - 3 which forms a ramp . the movement of the roller 42 on the ramp 14 - 3 causes the arm 40 to pivot in the direction of the arrow r 1 . at the end of the ramp 14 - 3 , the arm 40 will have pivoted and , via its stop 45 , it has driven the counter - plate 54 into abutment against the solenoid actuator 60 . this movement is carried out counter to the thrust action applied by the spring 53 . fig7 d illustrates the counter - plate 54 pressed against the solenoid actuator 60 , whose magnet thus blocks the lever 50 . the arm 40 remains free for any movement or play which separates the stop 45 from the branch 51 , that is to say , any movement in the direction r 2 . the movement of the roller 42 in the slotted member 14 is a relative movement , the carriage 10 moving in translation longitudinally in the direction d and the slotted member 14 passing over the roller 42 and forcing it to describe a small circular arc centred on the pivot 41 of the arm 40 . it should be noted that , during the movement illustrated in fig7 a - 7d , the pinion 20 has been driven by a quarter - turn by the movement of the plate 10 and the rack 11 thereof . fig8 a - 8d illustrate the opening sequence of the flap 2 - 1 by the arming movement of the carriage 10 from the closure position of the flap or actuated position illustrated in fig8 a ( identical to the position of fig7 d ) in order to arrive at the arming position illustrated in fig8 d . in the closed position according to fig8 a , the lever 50 is adhesively bonded via the counter - plate 54 thereof to the solenoid actuator 60 and the roller 42 of the arm 40 is located at the end 14 - 4 of the slotted member 14 . the opening sequence of the flap , that is to say , for arming the actuator , is carried out by means of the actuator which causes the pinion 20 to pivot in the reverse direction to the closure movement by means of its engagement in the rack 11 and the translation movement of the carriage 10 in the arming direction a pushed by the action of the arming member 30 . the control circuit 5 acts on the arming member 30 which urges the carriage 10 as far as its arming position by means of its rod 31 . fig8 b illustrates an intermediate position during the opening movement . the electromechanical arming member 30 repels the carriage 10 ( arrow a ) counter to the force developed by the spring 70 and compresses it in order to store energy for future actuation . the lever 50 is blocked by the solenoid actuator 60 but the arm 40 remains free to pivot about the pivot 41 thereof in order to allow the ramp 14 - 3 of the slotted member 14 to repel the roller 42 , that is to say , the arm 40 . the translation movement ( arrow a ) of the carriage 10 produces the pivoting action of the flap by means of the engagement of the toothed segment 21 in the rack 11 . according to fig8 c , the carriage 10 continues its movement beyond the ramp 14 - 3 on the straight segment 14 - 4 and counter to the action of the spring 70 so that the roller 42 engages in the recess 14 - 4 when it is opposite the roller 42 ; the spring 44 pushes the arm 40 in order to cause it to pivot . during this movement , the lever 50 is fixed since its branch 52 is engaged via the counter - plate 54 against the solenoid actuator 60 . the pivoting continues until the stop 45 arrives against the first branch 51 of the lever 50 . the geometry of the components is configured so that , in this position , the roller 42 is at the base of the locking recess 14 - 1 of the slotted member 14 . the movement of the carriage 10 is ensured by the arming member 30 as far as this position of the carriage 10 that corresponds to the opening position of the flap 2 - 1 of the valve 2 . according to fig8 d , the control circuit 5 detects the travel end position of the carriage 10 in the arming direction and that of the rod 31 . it stops the motor of the actuating member 30 then reverses the rotation direction thereof in order to retract the rod 31 and thus to release the carriage 10 for a future actuation operation . the carriage 10 is in the arming position . while this invention has been described as having a preferred design , the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure . this application is therefore intended to cover any variations , uses , or adaptations of the invention using its general principles . further , this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims . | US-201013256280-A |
a dye composition , which comprising : a monoazo dye of the formula and a disazo dye of the formula wherein r , r 1 , r 2 , r 3 , r 4 , y , k , d are defined in this document ; these kinds of dye composition have good stability and build - up . the dye composition are suitable for dyeing and printing of materials containing cellulose fibers , such as cotton , artificial cotton , linen , and artificial linen , or synthetic polyamide , such as wool , silk , and nylon etc . | the preparation of the compound of formula ( i ) is described in taiwan patent no . 56934 . wherein r 1 is — ch 3 or — cooh ; y is — ch ═ ch 2 , — ch 2 ch 2 cl or — ch 2 ch 2 oso 3 h . wherein y ′ is — ch ═ ch 2 or — ch 2 ch 2 oso 3 h . the synthesis of formula ( ii ) may refer to de patent no . 3 , 603 , 101 . preferably the compound of formula ( ii ) is the disazo dye of formula ( iia ): wherein r 2 and r 3 independently is hydrogen , halogen , c 1 - 4 alkyl or c 1 - 4 alkoxyl ; y is — ch ═ ch 2 , — ch 2 ch 2 cl , or — ch 2 ch 2 oso 3 h ; d is a group having to the formulas : wherein m is an integer of 1 , 2 or 3 ; n is an integer of 1 or 2 . y ′ is — ch ═ ch 2 or — ch 2 ch 2 oso 3 h ; d is a group having formulas ( iiia ) or ( iiib ): wherein m is an integer of 1 , 2 or 3 ; n is an integer of 1 or 2 . most preferably it is the disazo dye of formulas ( ii - 1 ) and ( ii - 2 ): with the total weight of the dye compositions of the present invention , weight percentage of the formula ( i ) ranges are not limited , preferably the formula ( i ) is present in an amount ranging from 50 % to 99 % by weight relative to total weight of the composition , and the formula ( ii ) is present in an amount ranging from 1 % to 50 % by weight relative to total weight of the composition . more preferably the formula ( i ) is present in an amount ranging from 60 % to 90 % by weight relative to total weight of the composition , and the formula ( ii ) is present in an amount ranging from 10 % to 40 % by weight relative to total weight of the composition . the composition of the present invention can be prepared in many ways . for example , by using separately prepared dye components mixing each dye together or by mixing one component alone then with another component . the way of mixing is by using a proper mixer , for example , a ball and sand grinder . in the same way , individual dye with different components can make dye liquid through stirring , or through control of conditions in each dye preparation to produce an ideal mixture . in the process of dyeing or printing , separate dyes can be mixed together or mixed with other dyes . if necessary , the dye compositions of the present invention may be contained with inorganic salts ( e . g . sodium sulfate or sodium chloride ), dispersants ( e . g . β - naphthalene sulfonic acid - formaldehyde condensation products , methyl naphthalene sulfonic acid - formaldehyde condensation products , acetyl amino naphthol based compounds , etc . ), non - dusting agents ( e . g . di - 2 - ethylhexyl terephthalate , etc . ), ph buffer agents ( e . g . sodium acetate , sodium phosphate , etc . ), water softeners ( e . g . polyphosphate , etc . ), well - known dyeing assistants , and etc . the form of the dye compositions of the present invention is not necessary to limitation . the dye compositions of the present invention can be in the form of powders , granules or liquids . for convenience in the statement , the compounds are expressed as free acid in the specification . when the dyestuffs of the present invention are manufactured , purified or used , they often exist in the form of water soluble salts , especially alkaline metallic salts , such as sodium salts , lithium salts , potassium salts or ammonium salts , and preferably sodium salts . the dye compositions of the present invention can dye many kinds of fiber materials such as cellulose fiber materials and cellulose included fiber materials . these dye compositions can also be used to dye natural cellulose fibers and regenerated cellulose fibers , such as cotton , linen , jute , ramie , mucilage rayon , as well as cellulose based fibers . the dyeing or printing of the reactive dye composition can be preceded by usual or known method . exhaustion dyeing is applied by using usual inorganic salts ( e . g . sodium sulfate and sodium chloride ) and well - known acid - binding agents ( e . g . sodium carbonate , sodium hydroxide ). the amount of inorganic salts and alkali here is not important . inorganic salts and alkali can be added into the dyeing bath through traditional methods either by once or by several times . in addition , dyeing assistants can be added , too . the range of dyeing temperature is from 40 ° c . to 90 ° c . preferably , the temperature for dyeing is from 50 ° c . to 70 ° c . in a cold - pad - batch application , dye , alkali and customary auxiliaries are padded from the liquor through . the padded , squeezed substrate is often rolled onto an a - frame and batched at room temperature to allow dye fixation to take place . in a continuous dyeing , it can be divided into two different methods . in the one - bath padding application , dye , alkali ( e . g . sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate ) and customary auxiliaries are padded from the liquor through , the padded , squeezed substrate was then dried by either baking or steam . in the two bath padding application , the substrate is padded through a dye solution bath , pre - dried , an alkali ( e . g . sodium hydroxide or sodium silicate ) bath , then dye fixed by either baking or steam . in textile printing , there can be exemplified a method which conducts printing a substrate with a printing paste containing , a well - known acid - binding agent ( e . g . sodium bicarbonate ), thickener , and completing the dye fixation by dry heat or steam . the dyeing or printing methods employed in the process of the present invention are not limited to these methods . the reactive dye composition of the present invention has good dyeing properties such as build - up , reproducibility and levelness for printing and dyeing . the dye compositions of the present invention exhibit a wide range of colours and increase the dye affinity to cellulose fiber materials while dyeing or printing , and can be used in both acid or base dyeing environments . besides , the dyed cellulose fiber materials have excellent properties of light fastness , wet - light fastness , and wet fastness , e . g . wash fastness , water fastness , seawater fastness , cross - dyeing fastness , and perspiration fastness , as well as pleating fastness , ironing fastness , and rubbing fastness . therefore , the present invention is a valuable reactive yellow dye for cellulose fibers in the present dyeing industry . the dye compositions have the materials dyed with excellent properties and resulting outstanding build - up and light fastness . owing to the change of the demand of the market , the general reactive dyestuff will not meet the requirements of the extremely pale shade and mixture market any more . the dye compositions of the present invention exhibit better light fastness in pale shade , and particularly in mixture of extremely pale shade , thereby allowing this invention to fit in with the requirements and expectations of market . many examples have been used to illustrate the present invention . the examples sited below should not be taken as a limit to the scope of the invention . in these examples , the compounds are represented in the form of dissolved acid . however , in practice , they will exist as alkali salts for mixing and salts for dyeing . in the following examples , quantities are given as parts by weight (%) if there is no indication . the relationship between weight parts and volume parts are the same as that between kilogram and liter . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 1 ) as described above . take 90 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 10 weight parts of formula ( ii - 1 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 1 ) as described above . take 75 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 25 weight parts of formula ( ii - 1 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 1 ) as described above . take 60 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 40 weight parts of formula ( ii - 1 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 2 ) as described above . take 90 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 10 weight parts of formula ( ii - 2 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 2 ) as described above . take 75 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 25 weight parts of formula ( ii - 1 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 2 ) as described above . take 60 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 40 weight parts of formula ( ii - 1 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) as described above and formula ( ii - 3 ) as described below . take 90 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 10 weight parts of formula ( ii - 3 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 3 ) as described above . take 75 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 25 weight parts of formula ( ii - 3 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 3 ) as described above . take 60 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 40 weight parts of formula ( ii - 3 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) as described above and formula ( ii - 4 ) as described below . take 90 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 10 weight parts of formula ( ii - 4 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 4 ) as described above . take 75 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 25 weight parts of formula ( ii - 4 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . preparing dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) and formula ( ii - 4 ) as described above . take 60 weight parts of formula ( i - 1 ) and 40 weight parts of formula ( ii - 4 ) and mixed completely to form a dye composition . compare the dyeing properties of the dye compositions of the present invention with 100 % dyestuffs of formula ( i - 1 ) with the following structure : example 1 - 3 were tested by k / s test to evaluate single colour build - up . the detailed description is as follows . first , five dye liquors were prepared , wherein each 80 ml liquor respectively had a concentration of 1 . 0 %, 2 . 0 %, 4 . 0 %, 6 . 0 % and 9 . 0 % on the weight of the fabric ( o . w . f ). after that , inorganic neutral salt was added , and then dyeing of the un - mercerized cloths made of pure cotton was started . the un - mercerized cotton cloths were soaked in the dye liquors . at the same time , dyeing of the dyestuffs was started at 60 ° c . and then the dyestuffs started diffusing to adhere the cloths with the aid of a horizontal shaker , which is followed by adding an alkali agent that made the dyestuffs react with fiber completely to achieve firm adherence . the resulting dyed cloths were water cleaned , soaping off , and tumble - dried to form finished products . the results of build - up testing by exhaustion dyeing are summarized in table 1 below . according to table 1 , different dye compositions of example 1 to example 3 in the present invention showed higher σk / s values than that of reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ) of comparative example 1 . take concentration 9 % o . w . f . of dye liquors for example , the σk / s values of example 1 , 2 and 3 were 17 . 35 , 17 . 98 , 16 . 99 , separately ; on the other hand , the σk / s value of reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ) of comparative example 1 was 13 . 09 . the data indicate the build - up of example 1 to example 3 within different dye compositions in the present invention are more outstanding than that of comparative example 1 with simply 100 % reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ). each dye composition of comparative example 1 and example 4 - 6 were tested by k / s test to evaluate single colour build - up . the detailed description is as the following . first , five dye liquors were prepared , wherein each 80 ml liquor respectively had a concentration of 1 . 0 %, 2 . 0 %, 4 . 0 %, 6 . 0 % and 9 . 0 % on the weight of the fabric ( o . w . f ). after that , inorganic neutral salt was added , and then dyeing of the un - mercerized cloths made of pure cotton was started . the un - mercerized cotton cloths were soaked in the dye liquors . at the same time , dyeing of the dyestuffs was started at 60 ° c . and then the dyestuffs started diffusing to adhere the cloths with the aid of a horizontal shaker , which is followed by adding an alkali agent that made the dyestuffs react with fiber completely to achieve firm adherence . the resulting dyed cloths were water cleaned , soaping off , and tumble - dried to form finished products . the results of build - up testing by exhaustion dyeing are summarized in table 2 below . based on table 2 , different dye compositions of example 4 to example 6 showed higher σk / s values than that of comparative example 1 within reactive dyestuff of formula ( i - 1 ). take concentration 9 % o . w . f . of dye liquors for example , the σk / s values of example 4 , 5 and 6 were 17 . 22 , 19 . 07 , 20 . 27 , separately ; on the contrary , the σk / s value of reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ) of comparative example 1 was 13 . 09 . the data indicate the build - up of example 4 to example 6 within different dye compositions in the present invention are more outstanding than that of comparative example 1 with simply 100 % reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ). each dye composition of comparative example 1 and example 7 - 9 were tested by k / s test to evaluate single colour build - up . the detailed description is as the following . first , five dye liquors were prepared , wherein each 80 ml liquor respectively had a concentration of 1 . 0 %, 2 . 0 %, 4 . 0 %, 6 . 0 % and 9 . 0 % on the weight of the fabric ( o . w . f ). after that , inorganic neutral salt was added , and then dyeing of the un - mercerized cloths made of pure cotton was started . the un - mercerized cotton cloths were soaked in the dye liquors . at the same time , dyeing of the dyestuffs was started at 60 ° c . and then the dyestuffs started diffusing to adhere the cloths with the aid of a horizontal shaker , which is followed by adding an alkali agent that made the dyestuffs react with fiber completely to achieve firm adherence . the resulting dyed cloths were water cleaned , soaping off , and tumble - dried to form finished products . the results of build - up testing by exhaustion dyeing are summarized in table 3 below . according to table 3 , different dye compositions of example 7 to example 9 in the present invention showed higher σk / s values than that of reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ) of comparative example 1 . take concentration 9 % o . w . f . of dye liquors for example , the σk / s values of example 7 , 8 and 9 were 14 . 96 , 15 . 47 , 16 . 58 , separately ; on the other hand , the σk / s value of reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ) of comparative example 1 was 13 . 09 . the data indicate the build - up of example 7 to example 9 with different dye compositions in the present invention is more outstanding than that of comparative example 1 within simply 100 % reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ). each dye composition of comparative example 1 and example 10 - 12 were tested by k / s test to evaluate single colour build - up . the detailed description is as the following . first , five dye liquors were prepared , wherein each 80 ml liquor respectively had a concentration of 1 . 0 %, 2 . 0 %, 4 . 0 %, 6 . 0 % and 9 . 0 % on the weight of the fabric ( o . w . f ). after that , inorganic neutral salt was added , and then dyeing of the un - mercerized cloths made of pure cotton was started . the un - mercerized cotton cloths were soaked in the dye liquors . at the same time , dyeing of the dyestuffs was started at 60 ° c . and then the dyestuffs started diffusing to adhere the cloths with the aid of a horizontal shaker , which is followed by adding an alkali agent that made the dyestuffs react with fiber completely to achieve firm adherence . the resulting dyed cloths were water cleaned , soaping off , and tumble - dried to form finished products . the results of build - up testing by exhaustion dyeing are summarized in table 4 below . based on table 4 , different dye compositions of example 10 to example 12 showed higher σk / s values than that of comparative example 1 within reactive dyestuff of formula ( i - 1 ). take concentration 9 % o . w . f . of dye liquors for example , the σk / s values of example 10 , 11 and 12 were 14 . 89 , 15 . 13 , 15 . 57 , separately ; on the contrary , the σk / s value of reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ) of comparative example 1 was 13 . 09 . the data indicating the build - up of example 10 to example 12 within different dye compositions in the present invention are more outstanding than that of comparative example 1 within simply 100 % reactive dyestuff formula ( i - 1 ). the dye compositions of the present invention are suitable for common uses and have excellent properties . they can be used to dye cellulose fibers with various dyeing methods , such as exhaustion dyeing , printed - dyeing , or continuous dyeing that are commonly used in the dyeing of reactive dyestuffs . the dye compositions of the present invention are water - soluble dyestuffs that have a highly commercial value . the dye compositions of the present invention can obtain dyeing results with excellent properties in all aspects , especially in washing off , build - up , levelness , light fastness , and wet - light fastness . although the present invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment , it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed . | US-87427504-A |
a gas turbine engine has a fan , first and second compressor stages , first and second turbine stages . the first turbine stage drives the second compressor stage as a high spool . the second turbine stage drives the first compressor stage as part of a low spool . a gear train drives the fan with the low spool , such that the fan and first compressor stage rotate in the same direction . the high spool operates at higher pressures than the low spool . a lubrication system is also disclosed . | fig1 shows a schematic cross - section of gas turbine engine 10 . gas turbine engine 10 includes low pressure spool 12 , high pressure spool 14 and fan drive gear system (“ fdgs ”) 16 . low pressure spool 12 includes low pressure compressor 18 and low pressure turbine 20 , which are connected by low pressure shaft 22 . high pressure spool 14 includes high pressure compressor 24 and high pressure turbine 26 , which are connected by high pressure shaft 28 . fan drive gear system 16 includes epicyclic gear train 30 that drives a fan assembly 32 by way of a carrier shaft 34 . epicyclic gear train 30 includes sun gear 36 , ring gear 38 and planetary gears 40 as will be shown hereinbelow . a carrier 50 is shown schematically in fig4 between shaft 34 and ring gear 38 . details of this connection are better shown in fig2 . low pressure spool 12 and high pressure spool 14 are covered by engine nacelle 42 , and fan assembly 32 and nacelle 42 are covered by fan nacelle 44 . low pressure spool 12 , high pressure spool 14 and fan assembly 32 comprise a two - and - a - half spool gas turbine engine in which epicyclic gear train 30 couples fan assembly 32 to low pressure spool 12 with input shaft 46 . fan assembly 32 generates bypass air for producing thrust that is directed between engine nacelle 42 and fan nacelle 44 , and core air that is directed into engine nacelle 42 for sequential compression with low pressure compressor 18 and high pressure compressor 24 . compressed core air is routed to combustor 48 wherein it is mixed with fuel to sustain a combustion process . high energy gases generated in combustor 48 are used to turn high pressure turbine 26 and low pressure turbine 20 . high pressure turbine 26 and low pressure turbine 20 rotate high pressure shaft 28 and low pressure shaft 22 to drive high pressure compressor 24 and low pressure compressor 18 , respectively . low pressure shaft 22 also drives input shaft 46 , which connects to epicyclic gear train 30 to drive fan assembly 32 . referring now to fig2 and fig2 a , a view of the planetary gear system having exemplary oil supply system is shown . the system is comprised of a input shaft 46 , sun gear 36 attaching thereto a plurality of planetary gears 40 that rotate about the sun gear 36 , stationary ring gear 38 , and a carrier 50 that rotates about the star gear to drive the fan assembly 32 . as the ring gear 38 is stationary , the rotation of the sun gear 36 causes each planetary gear 40 to counter - rotate relative to the direction of rotation of the sun gear 36 and simultaneously to orbit the sun gear 36 in the direction of the sun gear &# 39 ; s rotation . in other words , whereas each planetary gear 40 individually counter - rotates relative to the sun gear 36 , the group of planetary gears 40 co - rotates with the sun gear 36 . moreover , as the carrier 50 is driven by the rotation of the group of planetary gears 40 , the carrier 50 also co - rotates with respect to the sun gear 36 . finally , as the fan 32 is driven by the carrier 50 ( via shaft 34 ), the fan 32 also co - rotates with respect to the sun gear 36 and the low spool shaft 46 . thus , in this embodiment , the fan 32 rotates in the same direction as the low pressure compressor 18 . a first spray bar 41 is mounted to the carrier 50 in between each planetary gear 40 that lubricates the planet gears 40 and ring gear 38 . a second spray bar 53 is attached to the first spray bar 41 and extends forward to provide lubrication to the carrier shaft 34 that is supported by tapered bearings 55 that are tensioned by spring 60 . the carrier 50 has a shaft 34 for driving the fan assembly 32 , a circular body 65 for holding the planetary gears 40 and a cylinder 70 projecting aft about the input shaft 46 . the cylinder 70 also closely interacts with a stationary oil transfer bearing 75 . a grounding structure 80 holds the fdgs 16 , the ring gear 38 , forward gutter 90 and aft gutter 95 . the flexible coupling 85 is disposed around the rotary input shaft 46 . the forward gutter 90 and an aft gutter 95 attach to and around the outer edge of the ring gear 38 to collect oil used by the system for reuse as will be discussed herein . oil is input through the stationary oil transfer bearing 75 to the cylinder 70 ( e . g . also a bearing ) as will be discussed herein . referring now to fig3 , a side , sectional view of the oil transfer bearing 75 is shown . the oil transfer bearing 75 is prevented from rotational movement by attachment of a link 100 via tab 110 to an oil input coupling 105 that attaches to the stationary aft gutter 95 ( see also fig2 ). the oil transfer bearing 75 has a plurality of inputs to provide oil to those portions of the fdgs 16 that require lubrication during operation . for instance , oil from tube 115 is intended to lubricate the tapered bearings 55 , oil from tube 120 is intended to lubricate the planet gear bearings 125 ( see fig5 ), and oil from tube 130 is intended to lubricate the planet and ring gears , 38 , 40 . though three inputs are shown herein , other numbers of oil inputs are contemplated herein . referring now to fig3 a and 3b , the link 100 attaches via a pin 135 to the ears 140 extending from the tab 110 . the link 100 extends towards a boss 145 on the oil transfer bearing 75 and is attached thereto by a ball 150 and a pin 155 extending through the ball and a pair of ears 159 on the boss 145 on the oil transfer bearing 75 . the ball 150 allows the oil transfer bearing 75 to flex with the rotary input shaft 46 as torqueing moments are experienced by the fan assembly 32 and other portions of the engine 10 . the link 100 prevents the oil transfer bearing 75 from rotating while allowing it to flex . referring now to fig3 c , a cross - sectional view of the oil transfer bearing 75 is shown . the oil transfer bearing has a first race 160 that has a rectangular shape and extends around the interior surface 165 of the oil transfer bearing 75 , a second race 170 that has a rectangular shape and extends around the interior surface 165 of the oil transfer bearing 75 and a third race 175 that has a rectangular shape and extends around the interior surface 165 of the oil transfer bearing 75 . in the embodiment shown , tube 120 inputs oil via conduit 180 into the first race 160 . cylinder 70 which extends from the carrier circular body 65 , has a first oil conduit 180 extending axially therein and communicating with the first race 160 via opening 185 , a second oil conduit 190 extending axially therein and communicating with the second race 170 via opening 195 and a third oil conduit 200 extending axially therein and communicating with the third race 175 via opening 205 . as the cylinder 70 rotates within the oil transfer bearing 75 , the openings 185 , 195 , 205 are constantly in alignment with races 160 , 170 , 175 respectively so that oil may flow across a rotating gap between the oil transfer bearing 75 and the cylinder 65 through the openings 185 , 195 , 205 to the conduits 180 , 190 , 200 to provide lubrication to the areas necessary in engine 10 . as will be discussed herein , oil from conduit 180 flows through pathway a , oil from conduit 190 flows through pathway b and oil from conduit 200 flows through pathway c as will be shown herein . referring now to fig4 and 6 , oil from the tube 115 flows into second race 170 , through opening 195 into conduit 190 . from conduit 190 , the oil flows through path b into a pipe 210 in the first spray bar 41 to the second spray bar 53 where it is dispersed through nozzles 215 . pipe 210 is mounted into fixtures 220 in the circular body 65 by o - rings 225 the oil fig4 , the journal oil bearing input passes through tube , and tube into transfers tubes through tube into the interior of each planetary gear . each planetary gear has a pair of transverse tubes communicating with the interior of the planetary journal bearing to distribute oil between the planetary gear and the ring gear and a set of gears to provide lubricating area oil to the journal bearings 235 themselves . referring now to fig3 c and 5 , the flow of oil through path a is shown . the oil leaves conduit 180 through tube 230 and flows around journal bearings 235 that support the planet gear 40 and into the interior of shaft 240 . oil then escapes from the shaft 240 through openings 245 to lubricate between the planetary gears 40 and the ring gear 38 . referring to fig6 , the conduit 200 provides oil through pathway c into manifold 250 in the first spray bar 41 which sprays oil through nozzles 255 on the sun gear . referring now to fig7 , oil drips ( see arrows ) from the planetary gears 40 and the sun gear 36 about the carrier 50 and is trapped by the forward gutter 90 and the aft gutter 95 . oil captured by the forward gutter 90 is collected through scupper 265 for transport into an auxiliary oil tank 270 . similarly , oil captured by the aft gutter 95 travels through opening 275 and opening 280 in the ring gear support 285 into the forward gutter 90 to be similarly collected by the scupper 265 to go to the auxiliary oil tank 270 . some oil passes through openings 290 , 295 within the ring gear 38 and drips upon the flexible coupling 85 and migrates through holes 300 therein and drains to the main scavenge area ( not shown ) for the engine 10 . as is clear from fig5 and 7 , there is a recess adjacent the outer periphery of the ring gear 38 . the recess identified by 602 , can be seen to be formed by half - recess portions in each of two separate gear portions 600 which form the ring gear 38 . as is clear , the recess 602 is radially outwardly of the gear teeth 603 on the ring gear 38 . this recess helps balance force transmitted through the ring gear as the various interacting gear members shift orientation relative to each other . referring now to the figures , in view of these shortcomings a simple , reliable , unlubricated coupling system for connecting components of an epicyclic gear train 30 to external devices while accommodating misalignment therebetween is sought . although a combination of features is shown in the illustrated examples , not all of them need to be combined to realize the benefits of various embodiments of this disclosure . in other words , a system designed according to an embodiment of this disclosure will not necessarily include all of the features shown in any one of the figures or all of the portions schematically shown in the figures . moreover , selected features of one example embodiment may be combined with selected features of other example embodiments . the preceding description is exemplary rather than limiting in nature . variations and modifications to the disclosed examples may become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not necessarily depart from the essence of this disclosure . the scope of legal protection given to this disclosure can only be determined by studying the following claims . | US-201213428491-A |
a transmission apparatus has a transmission casing which is divided into two parts , namely , a front part casing , shaped generally as a frustum of a cone for forming a front part of the transmission casing and a rear part casing shaped generally as a frustum of a cone , for forming a rear part of the transmission casing . the rear part casing and the front part casing are connected to each other so as to form the transmission casing which has a cross section which gradually decreases from the front to the back of the transmission casing . | because transmission apparatuses are well known , the present description will be directed in particular to elements forming part of , or cooperating with , the novel construction in accordance with the present invention . it is to be understood that elements not specifically shown or described can take various forms well known to those skilled in the art . it should be noted that the words &# 34 ; front &# 34 ; and &# 34 ; rear &# 34 ; in this specification indicate directions toward the input side and output side of a transmission , respectively . referring to the drawings in detail , and in particular , to fig1 and 2 , a transmission installed in a transmission casing 1 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown the transmission casing has a front part casing 11 and a rear part casing 12 . the transmission , which includes a transmission mechanism 2 and a clutch mechanism 3 , has a transmission input shaft 21 , a main shaft 22 and a counter shaft 23 . the transmission is operationally coupled to an engine output shaft ( not shown ), such as a crankshaft , through the clutch mechanism 3 . on the other hand , the main shaft 22 is operationally coupled to a propeller shaft or drive shaft ( not shown ) through a sliding yoke ( not shown ). the main shaft is disposed coaxially with the input shaft 21 , and a counter shaft 23 is disposed in parallel with the main shaft 22 . all of the shafts 21 to 23 are held for rotation by the transmission casing 1 through bearings . the input shaft 21 is provided at its rear end with a drive gear 210 . on the other hand , the counter shaft 23 is provided with various counter gears , such as a drive gear 230 , a third speed gear 231 , a second speed gear 232 , a first speed gear 233 , a reverse gear 234 , and an over - drive gear 236 in this order from the clutch side . through a direct engagement between the drive gears 210 and 230 , the input gear 21 and the counter shaft 23 are operationally coupled to each other . as shown in fig1 gear teeth 235 from the first speed gear 233 and the reverse gear 234 . that is , the counter shaft 23 is integrally formed with the teeth 235 . front parts of the teeth 235 are assigned as the first speed gear 233 , and rear parts of the teeth 235 are assigned as the reverse gear 234 . the main shaft 22 is provided with various counter gears , such as a third speed - fourth speed ( 3 - 4 ) synchronizing mechanism 24 , a third speed gear 221 , a second speed gear 222 , a first speed - second speed ( 1 - 2 ) synchronizing mechanism 25 , a first speed gear 223 , a reverse gear 224 , an over - drive - reverse ( o - r ) synchronizing mechanism 25 and an over - drive gear 226 , in this order from the clutch side . all of the speed gears 221 to 224 and 226 are mounted for rotation on the main shaft 22 . the synchronizing mechanisms 24 - 26 have annular slidable sleeves 24a , 25a and 26a , respectively , which are slid in the axial direction by shift rods 41 , 42 and 43 ( which will be described later ), respectively . the respective annular slidable sleeve brings a front gear of the synchronizing mechanism into engagement with the main shaft 22 when the annular slidable sleeve slides forward , and a rear gear of the synchronizing mechanism into engagement with the main shaft 22 when the annular slidable sleeve slides rearward . otherwise , when the annular slidable sleeve is in a neutral position , the synchronizing mechanism is free from the main shaft 22 . the third gear 221 , the second speed gear 222 , the first speed gear 223 and the over - drive gear 226 of the main shaft 22 are in mesh with corresponding counter gears of the counter shaft 23 , namely , the third speed gear 231 , the second speed gear 232 , the first speed gear 233 and the over - drive gear 233 . the reverse gear 224 of the main shaft 22 is operationally coupled to the reverse gear 234 of the counter shaft 23 through an idle gear of an idle shaft 27 . in order to provide a high reduction ratio of the reverse gear , the idle shaft 27 is provided with first and second idle gears 271 and 272 , operationally united to each other , which are in mesh with the counter reverse gear 234 and the reverse gear 224 , respectively . the idle shaft 27 is integrally formed at its rear end with a radially extending fitting 273 which is secured to the rear part casing 12 with a bolt 28 . the main shaft 22 is formed , at its rear end , with a spline 228 . through the spline 228 , a gear 29 , through which the main shaft 22 is coupled to a speed meter ( not shown ) is attached to the main shaft 22 . further , through the spline 228 , the yoke is fitted to the main shaft 22 . in order to allow the speed meter gear 29 to be easily attached to the main shaft 22 , the spline 228 has a certain length from the rear end of the main shaft 22 . the speed meter gear 29 is fixed to the main shaft 22 by means of a washer 29a so as to be prevented from slipping out from the main shaft 22 . the front part casing 11 is formed with a rear flange 110 , and the rear part casing 12 is formed with a front flange 120 . the front and rear part casings 11 and 12 are secured through the flanges 110 and 120 by a plurality of bolts 13 . the transmission casing 1 has a front portion 1a , generally shaped as a frustum of a cone and forming a front part of the front part casing 11 , which is formed sufficiently large to contain the clutch mechanism 3 therein . the transmission casing 1 also has a cylindrical transitional portion 1c forming a rear part of the front part casing 11 , and a rear portion 1b shaped as a frustum of a cone , slightly inclining and forming the whole part of the rear part casing 12 . the cylindrical transitional portion 1c of the front part casing 11 is integrally formed with a plurality of bosses 14 for bolts by which the transmission casing 1 is secured to a vehicle body . the front part casing 11 comprises a conical clutch housing 111 and a transmission housing 112 . the transmission housing 112 partly extends toward the clutch mechanism 3 within the clutch housing 111 . in a wedge - like space formed in an upper portion of the clutch housing 111 , there is a reinforcing rib 113 extending between and connecting the clutch housing 111 and the transmission housing 112 . the transitional portion 114 , between the front portion 1a and the cylindrical transitional portion 1c of the front part casing 11 , is placed at approximately the middle of the transmission casing in the axial direction . in the front end portion of the transmission housing 112 , there is disposed a thrust bearing 115 through which the input shaft 21 is supported for rotation by the transmission housing 112 . there is further disposed a thrust bearing 116 through which the counter shaft 23 is supported for rotation by the transmission housing 112 . the transmission housing 112 is formed with an annular collar 16 to which a front cover 15 is secured by bolts 150 and 160 so as to close the front end of the transmission housing 12 . in the rear end portion of the transmission housing 112 , there are disposed thrust bearings 121 and 122 through which the main shaft 22 and the counter shaft 23 are , respectively , supported for rotation by the transmission housing 112 . the transmission housing 112 is formed with an annual collar 16 to which a front cover 15 is secured by bolts 150 and 160 so as to close the front end of the transmission housing 12 . a bearing cover 19 is secured to the transmission housing 112 by means of bolts 190 ( see fig4 ) passing through the rear part casing 12 . a bush 17 is fitted in the rear end of the rear part casing 12 so as to support the slidable yoke for rotation . the rear part casing 12 has an oil path 18 formed in the wall . the oil path 18 opens near the over - drive gear 226 of the main shaft 22 at its one end and reaches the bush 17 at its other end . through the oil path 18 , oil puddled on the bottom of the rear part casing 12 is scooped up by means of oil gears 236 and 226 and supplied into the oil path 18 . the oil is then supplied between the bush 17 and the slidable yoke through an oil hole 170 formed in the wall of the bush 17 . the oil is further supplied to the thrust bearing 122 through an oil path 123 formed in the wall of the rear part casing 12 after having lubricated the bush 17 . show fig3 to 9 , a shift mechanism , including a control rod 40 and first to third shift rods 41 - 43 , as installed so as to extend axially in the upper portion of the transmission casing 1 . the shift mechanism further includes a detent mechanism 50 , an inter - lock mechanism 60 , a mis - reversal shift provension mechanism 70 and a select - return mechanism 80 , all of which are installed together within the cylindrical transitional portion , 1c of the front part casing 11 . the control rod 40 is installed in the top wall of the cylindrical transitional portion 1c of the front part casing 11 so as to be parallel to the main shaft 22 and extend , at its rear end portion outside the transmission casing 1 ( see fig1 ). as is clearly seen in fig6 and 7 , the control rod 40 is coupled to a lower end of a gear change lever 402 through a link 401 so as to turn and slide according to gear select and shift operations of the gear change lever 402 . the gear change lever 402 is supported by a holding mount 403 . in order to prevent undesired motion of the gear change lever 402 , there is provided a coupling member 404 disposed on each side of the link 401 so as to restrict the movement of the gear change lever 402 relative to the holding mount 403 . the coupling member 404 is connected , at its one end , to the holding mount 403 and , at its other end , to a generally u - shaped bracket 405 fixed to the transmission casing 1 through a pivot 406 and a rubber bush 407 . the bracket 405 is secured to the transmission casing 1 by the bolts 13 fastening the front and rear part casing 11 and 12 to each other . as seen in fig3 the control rod 40 is provided with an arm 40a selectively positioned within the cylindrical transitional portion 1c of the front part casing 11 . the shift rods 41 - 43 are , respectively , formed with grooves 41a - 43a . according to turned positions of the control rod 40 , the control rod 40 brings the arm 40 a into engagement with the grooves 41a - 43a of the shift rod 41 - 43 . as is clearly shown in fig3 and 9 , each shift rod 41 , 42 or 43 is provided with a shift fork 41b , 42b or 43b engageable with the annular slidable sleeve 24a , 25a or 26a of the synchronizing mechanism 24 , 25 or 26 . respectively . as shown in fig8 and 9 , the shift rods 41 - 43 , placed in parallel with one another , are supported for sliding movement at their rear ends by a sub - frame 45 disposed within the rear part casing 12 and at their front ends by a support mount integrally formed with the front part casing 11 . the sub - frame 45 has a guide mount 451 for guiding independently the shift rods 41 - 43 . the guide mount 451 is formed with a bolt boss 452 at each lateral side for a fastening bolt 453 for securing the guide mount 451 to the rear part casing 12 . at least one of the shift rods 41 - 43 is provided with a spring 46 for preventing the gears from producing noise between teeth . for example , in this embodiment , the spring 45 is attached to the shift rod 43 , which is used for over - drive and reverse operations , and exerts a friction force on the reverse gear 224 of the main shaft 22 so as to force the shift rod 43 forward . this prevents the reverse gear 224 from producing noise . the spring 46 is received in a bore 125 formed in the rear part casing 12 and is adjusted in pressure by a screw plug 47 . referring to fig9 the detent mechanism 50 , which provides click stop feeling when the shift rod 43 is slid by the gear change lever 40 , is disposed between the sub - frame 45 and a set of the shift rods 41 - 43 . each shift rod 41 , 42 or 43 is formed with a plurality of detents 51 . the sub - frame 45 is provided with a ball mount 52 formed with a bore for each shift rod . a ball 54 is received in the ball mount 52 and forced against the corresponding shift rod . the ball 54 is forced down by the shift rod , and the shift rod an is allowed to slide in the axial direction and stopped when the ball 54 is seated on the next detent 51 . in such a way , the gear change lever 402 is operated with a click stop feeling . the inter - lock mechanism 60 , which is provided in order to prevent two or three shift rods from being simultaneously operated , is disposed between the sub - frame 45 and the first to third shift rods 41 - 43 . as shown in fig8 the sub - frame 45 is provided with lock pins 61 which are supported by partition walls of the guide mount 451 , respectively , so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the axes of the shift rods 41 - 43 . the first to third shift rods 41 - 43 are formed with detents 62 corresponding in position to the lock pins 61 . the second shift rod 42 , located between the first and third shift rods 41 and 43 , is provided with a pin 63 extending diametrically between the detents 62 . when all of the shift rods 41 - 43 are in their neutral positions , the lock pins 61 are aligned with the respective detents 62 of the first to third shift rods 41 - 43 . when any one of the first to third shift rods 41 - 43 slides and comes out of the neutral position , the shift rod forces sideways the adjacent lock pin 61 and pushes both the lock pins 61 sideways , so as to bring the lock pins 61 into engagement with the detents 62 of the remaining shift rods . in such a way , when any one of the shift rods 41 - 43 slides , the remaining shift rods are locked and prevented from being mis - shifted . referring to fig1 and 11 in connection with fig4 the mis - reversal shift prevension mechanism 70 , which prevents an operation of the gear shift lever 402 from an over - drive position to a reverse position , has a one unit 72 of essential elements assembled to the rear part casing 12 . the unit 72 is fitted in an opening 73 , formed in an upper portion of the rear part casing 12 , from the back and secured to the rear part casing 12 by a bolt 74 . the unit 72 includes a base block 75 , a mis - shift prevention cam 77 mounted for rotation on a pivot 76 , and a retention spring 78 for urging the mis - shift prevention cam 77 toward an original position . when it is intended to change the gear change lever 402 from the over - drive position to the reverse position and force the control rod 40 to slide , an arm 71 , extending from the control rod 40 , pushes and turns the mis - shift prevention cam 77 . when the mis - shift prevention cam 77 is turned to some extent , a stopper projection 77a of the mis - shift prevention cam 77 is brought into engagement with a step shoulder 75a of the base block 75 so as to prevent the control rod 40 from further sliding . in such a way , a mis - operation of the gear change lever 402 from the over - drive position to the reverse position is prevented . the select return mechanism 80 , which is disposed between the control rod 40 and the top of the rear part casing 12 , forces the control rod 40 to a middle position between the limits of turn of the control rod 40 when the transmission is neutral . as shown in fig3 on opposite sides of the control rod 40 , there are disposed return pistons 82 received , respectively , in cylinder bores 81 formed integral with the rear part casing 12 . a plug 84 is screwed into an upper end portion of the cylinder bores 81 . each piston 82 is forced downward by a coil spring 83 received in the cylinder bore 81 and is engaged at its lower end , by an arm 85 integrally formed with and extending from the control rod 40 . when the gear change lever 402 is operated , for instance , to a first / second speed gear select position , the control rod 40 is turned in the clockwise direction and forces upward one of the return pistons 82 ( the left side return piston as viewed in fig3 ) with the arm 85 . as a result , the coil spring 83 is compressed and reacts to exert force on the arm 85 so as to return the control lever 40 . similarly , when the gear change lever 402 is operated to an over - drive / return gear select position , the control rod 40 is turned in the counter - clockwise direction and forces upward the other of the return pistons 82 ( the right side return piston as viewed in fig3 ) with the arm 85 . as a result , the coil spring 83 is compressed and reacts to exert force on the arm 85 so as to return the control lever 40 . when the gear change lever 402 is freed from an external force at the neutral position , the control rod 40 is returned by the return piston to the neutral position shown in fig3 . as is apparent from the above description , the transmission casing 1 is generally shaped as a frustum of a cone excepting the cylindrical transitional portion 1c , so as to have a high structural stiffness . as a result , the transmission casing 1 suffers from less vibration during engine operation . the front part casing 11 has a partly double walled structure which is provided by the clutch housing 111 and the transmission housing 112 and reinforced by the rib 113 between the clutch housing 111 and the transmission housing 112 . the double walled structure is effective to cut noise from the transmission 2 . since where the clutch housing 111 and the transmission housing 112 are connected is the middle portion of the transmission casing 1 in the axial direction , the transmission casing 1 , the middle portion of which is subjected to a great stress , is reinforced in structural stiffness . in addition , since the transitional portion 1c of the transmission casing 1 , including a connected portion between the clutch housing 111 and the transmission housing 112 , is cylindrically shaped , it is certain and easy to provide the bosses 14 for the bolts 13 for securing the clutch housing 111 and the transmission housing 112 around the transitional portion 1c . although the present invention has been fully described by way of the preferred embodiment thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings , it is to be noted that various changes and modifications are apparent to those skilled in the art . therefore , unless such changes and modifications depart from the scope of the present invention , they are intended to be covered by the following claims . | US-97692992-A |
a method for forming a laminated photovoltaic structure includes providing a sheet of transparent material having light concentrating features , disposing adhesive material adjacent to the sheet of transparent material , disposing photovoltaic strips adjacent to the adhesive material , wherein the photovoltaic strips are positioned relative to the sheet of transparent material in response to exitant light characteristics of the light concentrating features , wherein photovoltaic strips are coupled via associated bus bars , wherein gap regions are located between bus bars of neighboring photovoltaic strips , disposing a rigid layer of material adjacent to the photovoltaic strips to form a composite photovoltaic structure ; and thereafter laminating the composite photovoltaic structure to fill the gap regions with adhesive material and to form the laminated photovoltaic structure , wherein adhesive material adheres to the bus bars . | fig1 a - b illustrate various aspects according to embodiments of the present invention . more specifically , fig1 a - b illustrate apparatus for determining concentration characteristics of a sheet of material 100 . in fig1 a , an embodiment of a sheet of transparent / translucent material 100 is shown . as can be seen , sheet 100 may include a number of concentrating elements 110 in a first direction 120 . in one example , there are approximately 175 concentrating elements across sheet 100 , although in other examples , the number of concentrating elements may vary . in various examples , the nominal pitch of concentrating elements 110 ranges from approximately 5 . 5 mm to 6 mm . in various embodiments , sheet 100 may be manufactured as a sheet of extruded material , accordingly , the concentrating elements may extend in a second direction 130 , as shown . in other embodiments , the concentrating elements may vary in second direction 130 . in various embodiments of the present invention , a light source 140 and a light detector 150 may also be provided . in various embodiments , light source 140 may provide collimated light to the surface 160 of material 100 having concentrating elements 110 . in various embodiments , light source 140 may include led lights , stroboscopic lights , laser , or the like . in other embodiments , the sun may be used as light source 140 . in some embodiments of the present invention , light source 140 may provide specific ranges of wavelengths of light , e . g . infrared , ultraviolet , reddish , greenish , or the like , depending upon the wavelength sensitivity of pv strip . in general source 140 may provide any type of electromagnetic radiation output , and detector 150 may sense such electromagnetic radiation . in various embodiments , light detector 150 comprises a photo detector , such as a ccd , a cmos sensor , or the like . in operation , light detector 150 may be a two - dimensional sensor and may provide an output proportional to the intensity of light incident upon each light sensor of light detector 150 . fig1 b illustrates another view of an embodiment of the present invention . in this figure , sheet 100 is show from the top or bottom . as shown , sheet 100 is mounted upon a frame assembly 170 . in some embodiments , sheet 100 may be supported merely by a frame portion of frame assembly 170 , whereas in other embodiments , frame assembly 170 may include a piece of transparent material , e . g . glass to support sheet 100 . in fig1 b , a first movement arm 180 and a second movement arm 190 are shown . in various embodiments , first movement arm 180 may be constrained to move in a first direction 200 , and second movement arm 190 may be constrained to move in a second direction 210 . it is contemplated that first movement arm 180 and second movement arm 190 may be precisely be positioned within first direction 200 and second direction 210 , respectively . in various embodiments of the present invention , light source 140 is positioned at the intersection of first movement arm 180 and second movement arm 190 . in operation , the location of light source 140 on top of sheet 100 is precisely controlled by the positioning of first movement arm 180 and second movement arm 190 . in various embodiments , the accuracy of positioning of light source 140 is +/− 20 microns . a similar set of movement arms are typically provided on the opposite side of sheet 100 , as shown in fig1 a . in various embodiments , light detector 150 is also positioned at the intersection of these movement arms . in operation , light source 140 and light detector 150 are typically precisely positioned on opposite sides of sheet 100 , as will be described below . in other embodiments of the present invention , other types of positioning mechanisms may be used . for example , a single arm robotic arm may be used to precisely position light source 140 and a single robotic arm may be used to precisely position light detector 150 . fig2 a - b illustrate a block diagram of a process according to various embodiments of the present invention . for sake of convenience , reference may be made to elements illustrated in fig1 a - b . initially , sheet 100 is provided , step 300 . in various embodiments , sheet 100 may be made of various grades and qualities of glass , plastic , polycarbonate , translucent material , or the like . in various embodiments , sheet 100 includes any number or type of concentrators 110 , that may be integrally formed within sheet 100 . in some case , sheet 100 may be formed from an extrusion process , a molding process , a grinding / polishing process , or a combination thereof . next , sheet 100 is mounted upon supporting frame assembly 170 , step 310 . it is contemplated that sheet 100 is secured to frame assembly 170 so that the measurements performed may be accurate . as discussed above , frame assembly 170 may include a clear piece of glass , plastic , or the like to support the weight of sheet 100 . in various embodiments of the present invention , one or more calibration steps may then be performed to correlate locations on sheet 100 with the locations of light source 140 and light detector 160 , step 320 . for example , the corners of sheet 100 may be located in two - dimensions with respect to supporting frame assembly 170 . in other embodiments , other types of calibration may be performed such as directly exposing light source 140 to light detector 150 so as to normalize the amount of light detected in the subsequent steps . in normal operation , light source 140 and light detector 150 are positioned at a determined position , step 330 . for example , if sheet 100 can be divided up into an array of locations , light source 140 and light detector 150 may be positioned at a desired location e . g . ( 0 , 0 ), ( 14 , 19 ), ( 32 , 32 ), or the like . next , as light source 140 illuminates the side of sheet 100 including concentrating structures 110 , step 340 , light detector 150 records the intensity of light exiting the other side of sheet 100 , step 350 . in various embodiments of the present invention , light detector 150 records the exitant light from portions of one or more concentrators 110 . for example , the field of view of light detector 150 may record the concentration of one concentrator 110 , as illustrated in fig1 b , or more concentrators 110 . in various embodiments of the present invention , a thin sheet of translucent / opaque material , e . g . eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material , or the like , may be disposed upon sheet 100 on the side facing light detector 150 . in such embodiments , the thin sheet of material facilitates optical detection of the exitant illumination . more specifically , the locations / contours and intensity of the exitant illumination become more apparent to light detector 150 because of the diffusing properties of the material as provided by the manufacturer . in later lamination steps ( heat , pressure , time ) that will be described below , the diffusing properties of the thin material are greatly reduced and the thin material becomes more transparent . in various embodiments , the thin sheet of material , may be . eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material , or the like . in other embodiments the thin sheet of material may be parchment material , or the like . in various embodiments , the detected illumination data are correlated to the array location of sheet 100 and then stored in a computer memory , step 360 . in some embodiments , light detector 150 may capture and provide one or more frames of illumination data . in such embodiments , an average of the multiple frames of illumination may be used to reduce effects of spurious vibration of supporting frame assembly , transient vibrations due to movement of light source 140 and light detector 150 , or the like . in various embodiments , if the illumination data has not been captured for all array locations , step 370 , the process above may be repeated for additional array locations . next , in various embodiments of the present invention , the stored illumination data and the array location data are used to determine an exitant light profile for sheet 100 , step 380 . more specifically , the light profile may include an intensity of light and an x , y coordinate for sheet 100 . in various embodiments of the present invention , based upon the exitant light profile , image processing functions may be performed to determine positioning data for placement of pv strips , step 390 . for example , morphological thinning operations may be performed to determine one or more center - lines for placement of the pv strips , edge contouring operations may be performed to provide an outline for placement of the pv strips , or the like . this positioning data may also be stored in computer memory . in some embodiments of the present invention , it is contemplated that the width of concentrated light by concentrators 110 is smaller than the narrow width of pv strips . accordingly , in some embodiments , the concentrated light should be centered within the pv strips . it is contemplated that this would increase , e . g . maximize the collection of light of a given pv strip relative to the exitant light . next , the positioning data may be used by a user , or the like , to place pv strips on a backing material , step 400 . in some embodiments , the positioning data , e . g . the center - lines , may be printed upon backing material , or the like , along with corner registrations . based upon such positioning data , a user may manually place the pv strips or pv cell ( groups of pv strips e . g . pv assembly , pv string , pv module ) approximately along the center - lines , or the like . in other embodiments , the positioning data may be input into a robotic - type pick and place machine that picks up one or more pv strips or pv cells and places them down on a backing material , a vacuum chuck , or the like at the appropriate locations . in various examples , placement accuracy may be +/− 15 microns . in various embodiments , an adhesive material , e . g . eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like , may be disposed between the pv strips and the backing material . in other embodiments of the present invention , the pv strips may be placed upon the thin layer of diffusing material described above , e . g . eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like , that is placed upon the back side of sheet 100 , e . g . opposite of concentrators 110 . the process may then repeat for placement of the next pv strip or pv cell , step 410 , until all the desired pv strips or pv cells have been placed . subsequently , a soldering step may be performed to electrically couple and physically restrain one or more pv strips relative to other pv strips or one or more pv cells relative to other pv cells , step 420 . in various embodiments , a layer of adhesive material is disposed upon the soldered pv strips or pv cells , step 430 . in some embodiments , the layer of adhesive material such as ethylene vinyl acetate ( eva ), polyvinyl butyral ( pvb ), surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like , may be used . subsequently , sheet 100 is disposed upon the layer of adhesive material , step 440 . in various embodiments , any number of registration marks , or the like may be used so that sheet 100 is precisely disposed above the pv strips or pv cells . more specifically , sheet 100 should be aligned such that the pv strips are positioned at the proper positions or locations under the respective concentrators 110 . in other embodiments where the pv strips are placed upon the thin diffusing layer described above , upon sheet 100 , in these steps , an additional layer of material ( e . g . eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like may be placed upon the pv strips , and then a backing material may be placed upon the additional adhesive layer . accordingly , in some embodiments , the composite pv structure is formed by building on top of sheet 100 , and in other embodiments , the composite pv is formed by building on top of the backing material . in various embodiments , the resulting sandwich of materials is bonded / laminated in an oven set to a temperature above approximately 200 degrees fahrenheit , step 450 . more specifically , the temperature is typically sufficient for the adhesive layer ( e . g . eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like ) to melt ( e . g . approximately 120 degrees c ., approximately 150 degrees c . or the like ) and to bond : the pv strips or pv cells , the backing , and sheet 100 together . in some embodiments , in addition to bonding the materials together , as the adhesive ( e . g . eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like ) melts , it occupies regions that were formerly gap regions between adjacent pv strips or pv cells . this melted adhesive helps prevent pv strips from moving laterally with respect to each other , and helps maintain alignment of pv strips relative to sheet 100 . additionally , the adhesive material occupies regions that were formerly gap regions between bus bars between the pv cells . as will be discussed below , the time , temperature and pressure parameters for the lamination step may be advantageously controlled . in various embodiments , one or more wires may be stung before and / or after the bonding step to provide electrical connection between the pv strips or pv cells . these wires thus provide the electrical energy output from the completed pv panel , step 460 . fig3 a - c illustrate examples according to various embodiments of the present invention . more specifically , fig3 a illustrates a cross section 500 of a portion of a transparent sheet 510 . as can be seen , a number of concentrators , e . g . 520 and 525 are illustrated . in fig3 a , a number of parallel light rays 530 from a source of illumination are shown striking the air / glass interface , and being directed towards regions 550 and 560 ( regions having concentrated light ). as discussed above , a sensor captures locations of concentrated light at regions 550 and 560 on transparent sheet 510 . as shown in this example , a layer of diffusing material 540 may be placed adjacent to sheet 510 to help the sensor capture the locations of regions 550 and 560 . as will be discussed below , in various embodiments , the layer of diffusing material 540 may also serve as an adhesive layer . more specifically , before a lamination process ( e . g . fig3 c ), the adhesive layer tends to diffuse incident light , and after the lamination process ( e . g . fig3 d and e ), the adhesive layer tends to secure pv strips relative to the glass sheet , and tends to become relatively transparent . as can be seen in this embodiment , concentrators are not typically the same size , shape , or pitch . in practice , it has been determined that the pitch of concentrators may vary across a sheet from 40 microns up to 500 microns . further , the concentrators need not be symmetric . accordingly , the regions where the light is concentrated may widely vary for different and even adjacent concentrators . as can be seen in this example , region 560 is off - center , and region 560 is wider than region 550 . in other embodiments , many other differences may become apparent in practice . as illustrated in fig3 b , the width , positioning , etc . of regions of concentrated light are not necessarily or typically uniform along the extrusion axis 570 of glass sheet 510 . in this example , it can be seen that the width of the concentrators 580 may vary along extrusion axis 570 , the width of the concentrated light regions 590 may vary along extrusion axis 570 , the concentrated light region may be off - center , and the like . in light of the above , it can be seen that because of the wide variability of concentrator geometry of glass sheet 500 , proper placement of pv strips relative to the concentrated light regions is desirable . in the example illustrated in fig3 c , pv strips 600 and 610 are illustrated disposed under regions 550 and 560 of fig3 b . in various embodiments , the width of pv strips are typically 25 % wider than the width of the concentrated light regions . in various embodiments , it is believed that if light that enters the concentrators at angles other than normal to sheet 510 ( e . g . 3 to 5 degrees from normal , or greater ), the light may still be incident upon the pv strips . in current examples , the width of the concentrated light regions ranges from approximately 1 . 8 mm to 2 . 2 mm , although other width region ranges are also contemplated . for example , as the quality control of sheet 510 including geometric uniformity and geometric preciseness of concentrators , clarity of the glass , or the like increase , the width of the concentrated light regions should decrease , e . g . with a lower width of approximately 0 . 25 mm , 0 . 5 mm , 1 mm , or the like . as illustrated in fig3 c , pv strips 600 and 610 are adjacent to glass sheet 500 and a backing layer 630 via adhesive layers 620 and 625 . as can be seen , in various embodiments , first adhesive layer 620 may be disposed between pv strips ( 600 and 610 ) and backing layer 630 , and a second adhesive layer 625 may be disposed between pv strips ( 600 and 610 ) and glass sheet 500 . further , gap regions , e . g . region 640 , exist between adjacent bus bars 605 and 615 and between adjacent pv strips ( 600 and 610 ). in some current embodiments , the height between adjacent bus bars is typically smaller than 200 microns . in fig3 d , the structure illustrated in fig3 c is subject to a precisely controlled lamination process . in the case of the adhesive layers being formed from layers of eva , pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like material , the first adhesive layer 620 and second adhesive layer 625 melt and reflow . as can be seen in fig3 d , first adhesive layer 620 and second adhesive layer 625 may mix together to form a single layer , as illustrated by adhesive layer 650 . in such embodiments , voids between pv strips and bus bars , e . g . gap region 640 before lamination process , are then filled ( region 660 ) by the adhesive material , e . g . eva , after the lamination process . in various embodiments , the adhesive material adheres to the pv strips and / or bus bars . as a result , pv strips 600 and 610 are not only secured relative to glass sheet 500 and backing layer 630 , but are also laterally secured with respect to each other by the reflowed eva material . additionally , the preexisting separation between bus bars 605 and 615 are maintained . in various embodiments , the adhesive material acts as a barrier to reduce solder shorts between neighboring pv strips and / or neighboring bus bars , for example , as a result of a user pushing down upon bus bars connecting pv strips . further , the adhesive material acts as a barrier to moisture , corrosion , contaminants , and the like . in other embodiments of the present invention , a single adhesive layer may be used , as illustrated in fig3 e . in various embodiments of the present invention , the lamination process includes precisely controlled time , temperature and . or physical compression variable profiles . in one example , the compression pressure pressing down upon the stack of materials ranges from approximately 0 . 2 to 0 . 6 atmospheres . in various embodiments , the lamination pressure profile includes subjecting the structure illustrated in fig3 c to a compression pressure of approximately 25 kpa ( e . g . ¼ atmosphere ) for about 25 seconds followed by a pressure of approximately 50 kpa ( e . g . ½ atmosphere ) for about 50 seconds . during this time period , the eva material , or the like is heated to the melting point , e . g . approximately greater than 120 degrees c ., greater than 150 degrees c ., or greater , depending upon the melting point of the specific type of adhesive material . experimentally , the inventors have determined that if the lamination process is performed under a compression pressure of approximately 1 atm , as the adhesive material , e . g . eva , melts and reflows , gap regions remain between adjacent pv strips and remain between bus bars between adjacent pv strips , as described above . in other embodiments of the present invention , other combinations of time , temperature and compression pressure may be determined that provide the benefits described above , without undue experimentation by one of ordinary skill in the art . in other embodiments of the present invention , when other adhesive materials such as pvb , surlyn , thermosets material , thermoplastic material or the like are used , the time , temperature , pressure , and the like properties may be similarly monitored by the user such that the other adhesive materials perform a similar function as the eva material , described above . more specifically , it is desired that the adhesive material fill the air - gap regions between the pv strips , and provide the protective and preventative features described above . fig4 illustrates a block diagram of a computer system according to various embodiments of the present invention . more specifically , a computer system 600 is illustrated that may be adapted to control a light source , a light detector , and / or a pv placement device , process data , control a lamination device , and the like , as described above . fig4 is a block diagram of typical computer system 700 according to various embodiment of the present invention . in various embodiments , computer system 700 typically includes a monitor 710 , computer 720 , a keyboard 730 , a user input device 740 , a network interface 750 , and the like . in the present embodiment , user input device 740 is typically embodied as a computer mouse , a trackball , a track pad , wireless remote , and the like . user input device 740 typically allows a user to select objects , icons , text , control points and the like that appear on the monitor 710 . in some embodiments , monitor 710 and user input device 740 may be integrated , such as with an interactive touch screen display or pen based display such as a cintiq marketed by wacom , or the like . embodiments of network interface 750 typically include an ethernet card , a modem ( telephone , satellite , cable , isdn ), ( asynchronous ) digital subscriber line ( dsl ) unit , and the like . network interface 750 is typically coupled to a computer network as shown . in other embodiments , network interface 750 may be physically integrated on the motherboard of computer 720 , may be a software program , such as soft dsl , or the like . computer 720 typically includes familiar computer components such as a processor 760 , and memory storage devices , such as a random access memory ( ram ) 770 , disk drives 780 , and system bus 790 interconnecting the above components . in one embodiment , computer 720 is a pc compatible computer having multiple microprocessors such as xeon ™ microprocessor from intel corporation . further , in the present embodiment , computer 720 may include a unix - based operating system . ram 770 and disk drive 780 are examples of tangible media for storage of non - transient : images , operating systems , configuration files , embodiments of the present invention , including computer - readable executable computer code that programs computer 720 to perform the above described functions and processes , and the like . for example , the computer - executable code may include code that directs the computer system to perform various capturing , processing , pv placement steps , or the like , illustrated in fig2 a - c ; code that directs the computer system to perform controlled lamination process , or the like , illustrated in fig3 c - d ; any of the processing steps described herein ; or the like . other types of tangible media include floppy disks , removable hard disks , optical storage media such as cd - roms , dvds , blu - ray disks , semiconductor memories such as flash memories , read - only memories ( roms ), battery - backed volatile memories , networked storage devices , and the like . in the present embodiment , computer system 700 may also include software that enables communications over a network such as the http , tcp / ip , rtp / rtsp protocols , and the like . in alternative embodiments of the present invention , other communications software and transfer protocols may also be used , for example ipx , udp or the like . fig4 is representative of computer systems capable of embodying the present invention . it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many other hardware and software configurations are suitable for use with the present invention . for example , the use of other microprocessors are contemplated , such as core ™ or itanium ™ microprocessors ; opteron ™ or phenom ™ microprocessors from advanced micro devices , inc ; and the like . additionally , graphics processing units ( gpus ) from nvidia , ati , or the like , may also be used to accelerate rendering . further , other types of operating systems are contemplated , such as windows ® operating system such as windows7 ®, windowsnt ®, or the like from microsoft corporation , solaris from oracle , linux , unix , mac os from apple corporation , and the like . in light of the above disclosure , one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that many variations may be implemented based upon the discussed embodiments . for example , in one embodiment , a layer of photosensitive material approximately the same size as the glass sheet described above is disposed under the sheet of transparent material . subsequently , the combination is exposed to sun light . because the material is photosensitive , after a certain amount of time , regions where the light is concentrated may appear lighter or darker than other regions under the glass sheet . in such embodiments , the material can then be used as a visual template for placement of the pv strips or cells . more specifically , a user can simply place pv strips at regions where the light is concentrated . once all pv strips are placed , the photosensitive material may be removed or be used as part of the above - mentioned backing . as can be seen in such embodiments , a computer , a digital image sensor , a precise x - y table , or the like are not required to practice embodiments of the present invention . in other embodiments of the present invention , a displacement sensor , e . g . a laser measurement device , a laser range finder , or the like may be used . more specifically , a laser displacement sensor may be used in conjunction with steps 300 - 380 in fig2 a - b . in such embodiments , the measured and determined light profile of step 380 is determined , as discussed above . in addition , a laser displacement sensor may be used to geometrically measure the surface of the sheet of transparent material , e . g . glass . it is contemplated that a precise measured geometric surface of the transparent sheet is then determined . in some embodiments of the present invention a keyence lk ccd laser displacement sensor , or the like can be used . in such embodiments , the measured geometric model of the transparent sheet and the determined light profile are then correlated to each other . in various embodiments , any number of conventional software algorithms can be used to create a computer model of the transparent material . this computer model that correlates as input , a description of a geometric surface and then outputs a predicted exitant light location . in various embodiments , a number of transparent sheets may be subject to steps 300 - 380 to determine a number of light profiles , and subject to laser measurement to determine a number of measured geometric surfaces . in various embodiments , the computer model may be based upon these multiple data samples . subsequently , in various embodiments of the present invention , a new transparent sheet may be provided . this new transparent sheet would then be subject to laser measurement to determine the measured geometric surface . next , based upon the measured geometric surface and the computer model determined above , the computer system can then predict the locations of exitant illumination from the new transparent sheet . in various embodiments , steps 390 - 460 may then be performed using the predicted exitant illumination locations . in other embodiments of the present invention , other types of measurement devices may be used besides a laser , such as a physical probe , or the like . in other embodiments of the present invention , pv strips may be placed on top of an eva layer , or the like directly on the bottom surface of the glass concentrators . these materials may then be subject to heat treatment , as described above . accordingly , in such embodiments , a rigid backing material may not be needed . in still other embodiments , a light source may be an area light source , a line light source , a point light source , or the light . additionally , a light may be a 2 - d ccd array , a line array , or the like . further embodiments can be envisioned to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading this disclosure . in other embodiments , combinations or sub - combinations of the above disclosed invention can be advantageously made . the block diagrams of the architecture and flow charts are grouped for ease of understanding . however it should be understood that combinations of blocks , additions of new blocks , re - arrangement of blocks , and the like are contemplated in alternative embodiments of the present invention . the specification and drawings are , accordingly , to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense . it will , however , be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope . | US-88803710-A |
an improvement in the process of manufacturing integrated circuits to enhance the yield , including the steps of tracking which of the individual dies on a photomask or related series of photomasks has produced a predominance of defective chips on the semiconductor wafer , then correcting the die images on the master photomasks and then producing new working masks . this procedure may be repeated several times , each time reducing the number of defect - bearing die images on the photomask and thereby providing a means by which a semiconductor device manufacturer can obtain better yields . | the process by which most integrated circuit semiconductor devices are manufactured begins , of course , with development of a specific logic diagram . after the design has been logically and physically verified , the designer proceeds to design cells to perform the logic functions and prepares schematic diagrams . actual physical layout of the chip is then done by positioning the logic cells , many of which may be reused several times within a given chip , and other circuit elements within a specific geometry . several layouts may be necessary to optimize interconnection density , keep path lengths reasonable , diminish undesirable thermal gradients and to minimize chip size . after the layout is finalized , a composite is generated either manually or with computer assistance . a composite is a drawing having all the layers of a chip on one sheet of drawing . the logic circuits are placed in geometric form , positioning the transistors , capacitors , circuit paths , etc . the composite is then separated into individual layers called rubyliths , which are the camera - ready artwork . this may be done manually by hand cutting from the drawings . the computer method may include utilization of standard cells to automatically compose a composite or after manual preparation of the composite , the data on the composite may be digitalized to generate an artwork tape . the artwork tape may then be used to drive a pattern generator which produces the rubyliths at 200x or 400x or a single die glass master reticle at 10x size , thus obviating the need for 200x or 400x rubyliths and their subsequent photoreduction . if rubyliths are made , the next step is to photographically reduce them to 10x size and produce a single die glass master reticle image . from this point of the process on , care must be taken to avoid defects . temperature and humidity must be controlled to insure accuracy and repeatability , and cleanliness must be observed to reduce the production of unintended opacities on clear regions . a second photoreduction process reduces the 10x reticle image to 1x size exposing the image on a photosensitive coated glass plate and a step and repeat camera fixture simultaneously moves and re - exposes the image until the usable area of the glass plate is covered with multiple images that are the same . again , temperature and humidity control are extremely important and cleanliness is paramount since at the present size of the image , dust particles of any size are large enough to cause defects on the plate . the step and repeat plate will be used as a master to produce the finished photomask and any defects on the master will appear on the final part plus any defects added in the materials here or in the subsequent process steps . the matching or overlay of all layers in a set of photomasks is critical to good production yield and the accuracy of the step and repeat camera is a demanding function in that regard . at the time the full size ( typically 20x through 1000x ) composite drawing is prepared , an unused area within the die pattern is selected for the location of identification indicia . after the step and repeat operation , the camera is returned to the start position on the glass plate and the 10x glass reticle is removed and an automatic indexing fixture is inserted in place of it . the automatic indexing fixture produces images having different numbers , they may be sequential or they may not be sequential as desired , or any types of symbols or alpha / numerical indicia may be employed . using the automatic indexing fixture , each photographic die image is then individually numbered and identified at the previously selected position . the photomask master plate is then processed in the normal manner . after the master has been fabricated , a contact print is made , normally on a hard surface photographic plate . one way in which a contact print is made is by placing the plate having images thereon against an unexposed photoplate , drawing a vacuum between them so that they have intimate contact with one another and then exposing them to light . this produces a submaster plate which when processed will have all of the images as on the master . a submaster plate may be printed upon a chrome - coated photosensitive plate and , although this increases the cost , chrome plates may last many times longer than emulsion - coated plates for the production of working plates before being thrown away . a chrome - coated plate may be washed and reused several times . reprints or working plates may also be produced by a similar process of contact printing by using a photosensitive plate and a submaster plate so that a duplicate image appears . these photomasks will then be exactly the same as the master and submasters as far as the images that appear . these photomasks are then used by the integrated circuit manufacturers to produce integrated circuits . at the end of the integrated circuit manufacturing process , after the manufacturer has used the mask to make chips , he makes an electrical , optical or other type of inspection of each chip and rejects all defective ones . location of defective chips can then be made by reference to identification numbers and the numbers forwarded to the mask manufacturer whereupon it will be determined that chips having certain common identification numbers failed to work . the photomask masters or submasters used to make that chip or the group of photomasks so used corresponding to that indexed die image is then inspected at the die image number site for possible defects in the photomask . it is found that about 80 percent of all defects in the photomasks are opacities which may be corrected by laser trimming . defects found are removed when possible on all of the photomask tooling , the master , submaster and working plates if used and a new photomask is made using the now improved tooling and returned to the integrated circuit manufacturer for use . these steps of determining the defective chips after the manufacturing process to ascertain the predominance of defective chips having common identification numbers , then referring to the master photomask or its appropriate submaster plate for detection of the source of the defect to determine if it exists in the photomask , followed by correction or elimination of the defect and reproduction of an improved photomask may be repeated many times , continually improving the master photomask and its related tooling such that the potential output yield obtainable by the manufacturer is greatly enhanced . by continually repeating the inspection , repair and retooling process , the photomask manufacturer aims at achieving an essentially perfect photomask or one that is as nearly as defect - free as possible . although this will not necessarily result in an one hundred percent yield by the circuit manufacturer , it may essentially eliminate the photomask as a source of defective chips . | US-72333376-A |
in a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device of a three - dimensional structure having a semiconductor substrate and another single crystal semiconductor layer formed thereon , the another single crystal semiconductor layer is prepared by melting a vapor - deposited amorphous or polycrystalline semiconductor layer by the energy of laser beams then solidifying and converting the layer into single crystals . for initiating the melting at selected regions of the layer , the layer is formed at the surface thereof with a silicon nitride film of a uniform thickness and a silicon nitride film with a thickness at the region corresponding to the selected region different from that of the remaining region . the region thicker or thinner than other region reflects the laser energy at different reflectivity thereby to provide a desired temperature distribution . | referring now to fig1 ( a ) and 1 ( b ), there is shown a semiconductor plate processed by an energy beam irradiation step in the method of manufacturing a semiconductor device . the semiconductor plate comprises a semiconductor substrate 11 , as well as a first dielectric layer 12 , a semiconductor layer 13 , a second dielectric layer 21 and a third dielectric layer 22 laminated in this order on the surface of the substrate . the third , that is , the uppermost dielectric layer 22 comprises two portions 22a and 22b of different thickness as explained specifically later . the semiconductor substrate 11 may be a silicon wafer having any desired thickness and surface area , which may be already fabricated by the method known to the art so as to provide a desired semiconductor device structure . in the case where the semiconductor substrate is made of silicon , the first dielectric layer 12 adjacent thereto preferably consists of silicon oxide formed by a known thermal oxidation process . the first semiconductor layer 13 above and adjacent to the first dielectric layer 12 may be made of amorphous or polycrystalline , that is , not - single crystal semiconductor material , for example , silicon . the amorphous or polycrystalline silicon layer may be formed by a cvd process . according to the method of this invention , the second and the third dielectric layers 21 and 22 are present on the semiconductor layer 13 . in the case where the semiconductor layer 13 is made of silicon , the second dielectric layer is preferably made of silicon oxide , which may be formed with ease by the cvd process in the same manner as in the case of the first dielectric layer 12 . the third dielectric layer 22 consists of two portions 22a and 22b with thickness different from each other . each of the thin portions 22a is formed below the bottom of a plurality of grooves having a width and depth equal to each other and disposed at a uniform pitch and , accordingly , the thick portions 22b correspond to those portions other than the grooves . although there are no particular restrictions for the width of the portions 22a and 22b , it is preferred that each portion 22a has a width of about 5 μm and each portion 22b has a width of about 10 μm . the third dielectric layer 22 is preferably made of silicon nitride . a method of forming a dielectric layer having such grooves comprises forming a silicon nitride film of a desired thickness on the second dielectric layer 21 by a cvd process , forming a plurality of grooves each having a predetermined width and depth by using a known photo etching technology , and forming a silicon nitride film on the thus formed silicon nitride film having grooves by using a cvd process . that is , the thickness of the thicker portion 22b corresponds to the sum of the thickness of the films prepared respectively in the successive two vapor deposition steps , while the thickness for the thinner portion 22a corresponds to the thickness of the thicker portion substrated with the thickness removed by the etching . the thickness of the portions 22a and 22b of the third dielectric layer 22 , as well as the thickness of the second dielectric layer 21 situated therebelow , are important factors in the method of this invention . fig3 ( a ) shows the relationship between the thickness of the silicon nitride film ( å ) and the reflectivity (%). as shown in fig3 ( b ), the relationship shows the result of the measurement for the reflectivity relative to the light at a wavelength of 4880 å on the surface of the silicon nitride film for each of a plurality of samples prepared by laminating silicon oxide film and silicon nitride film of various thickness by using the thickness of the silicon oxide film as the parameter , in which numeral values attached to each of the curves in the graph indicate by å unit the thickness of the silicon oxide film . the results in fig3 ( a ) show that the reflectivity of the composite body composed of the silicon oxide film and the silicon nitride film formed on the silicon substrate against the light of a wavelength at 4880 å varies within a broad range from about 0 % to 60 % depending on the thickness of the silicon oxide film and the silicon nitride film . the energy of light not reflected is absorbed in the silicon nitride film , silicon oxide film and the silicon substrate and converted into heat energy . as the result , the temperature of the silicon substrate rises in inverse proportion with the reflectivity . it has been confirmed by experiment that the above - mentioned relationship can be established for laser beams at various wavelength from all of the laser beam sources put to practical use at present . the principle of this invention is based on forming a lower dielectric film of a predetermined uniform thickness and an upper dielectric film of varying thickness on an amorphous or polycrystalline silicon film so that a layer having differing reflectivity and a desired temperature distribution is intentionally formed to the amorphous polycrystalline silicon film upon irradiation of laser beams by utilizing the partial difference in the reflectivity of the composite film . from various experiments including the results as shown in fig3 ( a ), it has been found that the difference in the reflectivity required for causing a desired temperature distribution to the silicon film can be achieved when the upper dielectric layer has a different thickness at desired portions or regions from the remaining portions or regions . in one particular embodiment where the lower and upper dielectric films are made of silicon oxide and silicon nitride respectively , a desired difference in the reflectivity against the laser beams at the wavelength of 4880 å can be obtained in the case where the thickness of the silicon oxide film is from 0 . 04 to 0 . 07 μm and the silicon nitride film comprises thinner portion of from 0 . 01 to 0 . 03 μm and thicker portion of from 0 . 05 to 0 . 1 μm ; and where the thickness of the silicon oxide film is from 0 . 07 to 0 . 1 μm and the silicon nitride film comprises thinner portion of less than 0 . 03 μm ( which may be possibly be removed entirely depending on the case ) and thicker portion of from 0 . 04 to 0 . 1 μm . again referring to fig1 ( b ), the illustrated semiconductor plate comprises a silicon oxide film 12 of about 1 μm thickness , a polycrystalline silicon film 13 of about 0 . 5 μm thickness , a silicon oxide film 21 of about 0 . 04 μm thickness and a silicon nitride film 22 composed of the region 22a of about 0 . 025 μm thickness and the region 22b of about 0 . 085 μm thickness . beams of continuous oscillating argon laser at the wavelength of 4880 å and restricted to a diameter of 100 μm were irradiated onto the semiconductor plate having the foregoing structure while scanning in parallel with the stripes of the silicon nitride film 22 in the direction of the arrow shown in fig1 ( a ) at a velocity of 25 cm / sec . in the silicon nitride film 22 , since the reflectivity of the laser beams in the region 22a of 0 . 025 μm thickness is smaller than that in the region 22b of 0 . 085 μm thickness as shown in fig3 more laser power is absorbed in this region 22a to the polycrystalline silicon layer 13 therebelow . accordingly , the temperature for the polycrystalline silicon 13 below the silicon nitride film 22a of 0 . 025 μm thickness is higher than that for the polycrystalline silicon 13 below the silicon nitride film 22b of 0 . 085 μm thickness . since the solidification and re - crystallization occurs continuously from the polycrystalline silicon below the silicon nitride film 22b of 0 . 085 μm thickness at a lower temperature , the polycrystalline silicon film 13 is grown into single crystals over a large area . in this case , since the silicon oxide film 21 is present over the entire surface of the polycrystalline silicon film 13 , neither the nitrogen atoms are intruded from the silicon nitride film 22 to the polycrystalline silicon 13 nor does unevenness result to the surface due to the silicon nitride film 22 . by eliminating the silicon nitride film 22 and the silicon oxide film 21 after the irradiation of the laser beams , transistors or like other devices can be manufactured on the polycrystalline silicon 13 now converted into single crystals . although two dielectric layers are disposed on the polycrystalline silicon film 13 in the above embodiment , three or more layers may be employed so long as a desired reflectivity can be obtained . as described above , according to this invention , since a silicon oxide film is formed over the semiconductor layer on the dielectric material and a silicon nitride film having the distribution of the thickness is further formed thereover , a desired temperature distribution can be formed in the semiconductor layer upon irradiation of laser beams and the intrusion of impurities can be decreased to thereby obtain a semiconductor layer at a high quality . | US-84432486-A |
disclosed is a negative - type photosensitive resin composition comprising component that is a product of the michael addition reaction between an amino group - containing compound represented by the general formula : , and a polyethyleneglycol diacrylate represented by the general formula : . the composition of the invention is broadly be applicable in the technical fields of photo masks for etching use in the fabrication of crt shadow masks , and lead frames for the mounting of ic chips ; phosphor patterning of crt ; and further those of photosensitive resin plates , dry films , aqueous photosensitive paints , and aqueous photosensitive adhesives , etc . the composition of the invention has water resistance in spite of its capability of being developed with water and produce effects of enduring acidic wet - etching and repetitive steps of development . | component ( a ) to be used in the present invention is a reaction product obtained by the michael addition reaction between an amino group - containing compound ( a - 1 ) represented by the following general formula ( i ): wherein n is an integral number of 1 - 4 , and a polyethyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate ( a - 2 ) represented by the following general formula ( ii ): wherein r 1 is a hydrogen or a methyl , and m is an integral number of 4 - 14 . component ( a - 1 ) is a compound that contains a primary amino group or a secondary amino group . examples thereof include diethylenetriamine , triethylenetetramine , tetraethylenepentamine , and pentaetlylenehexamine . component ( a - 1 ) may be used singly or in a combination of two or more thereof . component ( a - 1 ) is commercially available , such as in the name of “ heavy polyamine x ” ( manufactured by union carbide corporation ). component ( a - 2 ) is of the general formula ( ii ) with m = 4 to 14 , where the number of ethylene oxides ( eo ) is in the range of 4 to 14 , preferably with m = 4 to 9 , and more preferably m = 4 to 6 . the use of component ( a - 2 ) with the number of eo within the above range allows component ( a ), prepared as a product of the michael addition reaction , exhibit advantageous effects in its favorable water resistance after the photopolymerization and favorable water - solubility . furthermore , it exhibits a more excellent effect on the increase in water resistance when as component ( a ) is used a reaction product ( a secondary product of the michael addition reaction ) obtained by the michael addition reaction of an organic silicon compound ( a - 3 ) that contains an amino group and / or an imino group with the product of the michael addition reaction between component ( a - 1 ) and component ( a - 2 ). the michael addition reaction with the addition of another component ( a - 3 ) may be carried out after preparing the product of the michael addition reaction between component ( a - 1 ) and component ( a - 2 ). alternatively , the michael addition reaction may take place by mixing component ( a - 3 ) together with components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 2 ) at the time of the michael addition reaction between components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 2 ). preferably , component ( a - 3 ) may be a compound represented by the following general formula ( iii ): wherein y is an alkyl or an alkoxy each having 1 - 3 carbon atoms , r 3 and r 4 independently represent a divalent hydrocarbon group having 1 - 5 carbon atoms , p is an integral number of 1 - 3 , and q is an integral number of 0 - 3 . two or more y may be identical or different when p is 2 or 3 , while two or more r 3 may be identical or different when q is 2 or 3 . here , the term “ hydrocarbon group ” means a group made up of carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms , which may be an aliphatic hydrocarbon group , an alicyclic hydrocarbon group , or an aromatic hydrocarbon group . in the hydrocarbon group , the carbon atom may be substituted or unsubstituted . preferably , the “ divalent hydrocarbon group ” may be an alkylene in particular . the alkylene may be of straight chain or branched chain , and in particular , a straight - chain alkylene is preferable . the compounds represented by the general formula ( iii ) may be preferably one of the compounds having the following general formulae ( iv ), ( v ), and ( vi ): wherein r 2 is an alkyl having 1 - 3 carbon atoms , and r 3 and r 4 are the same as defined above . examples of such an organic silicon compound include n - β ( aminoethyl ) γ - aminopropyltrimethoxysilane , n - β ( aminoethyl ) γ - aminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane , and γ - aminopropyltriethoxysilane . they are commercially available as “ kbm603 ,” “ kbm602 ,” and “ kbe903 ” ( each of them is a silane - coupling agent manufactured by shin - etsu chemical co ., ltd .). among them , n - β ( aminoethyl ) γ - aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (“ kbm603 ”) is most preferable because even in a small amount of the compound the addition of allows the improvement of water resistance . in the present invention , the michael addition reaction may proceed in the stages as represented by the following reaction formula . various kinds of by - products may be obtained depending on the diversity of the addition reaction , the positions of the amino groups , imino groups or the like contained in components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 3 ). in the following reaction formula , the amino group - containing compound represented by the general formula ( i ) is alternatively represented by the following formula : and the polyethyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate represented by the formula ( ii ) is alternatively represented by the following formula . it is conceivable that the product having the following general formula ( x ) may be prepared by the michael addition reaction : wherein z is a hydrogen or a group represented by the following formula : wherein r 1 is a hydrogen or a methyl ; n is an integral number of 1 - 4 , and e and r are respectively the same as defined above . accordingly , the michael addition reaction between components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 2 ) allows a part of terminal ethylenic unsaturated double bonds of component ( a - 2 ) to be cross - linked with component ( a - 1 ), resulting in the increase in water resistance . in the michael addition reaction with the addition of component ( a - 3 ), the product may be prepared by the michael addition reaction between the ethylenic unsaturated double bond remained in the molecular structure of the general formula ( x ) and the amino group or the imino group in component ( a - 3 ), resulting in a further increase in water resistance . the reaction product obtained by the michael addition reaction is excellent in water solubility . that is , when the number of ethylene oxides ( eo ) in the general formula ( ii ) is in the range of about 4 - 6 , component ( a - 2 ) per se is insoluble , however , the reaction product prepared by the michael addition reaction using component ( a - 2 ) is water - soluble . actually , at an early stage of the michael addition reaction , the reaction solution is hardly dissolved in water and an oil film is formed on the water surface . however , as the reaction proceeds , the reaction solution becomes water - soluble . it is considered that , as ethylene oxide ( eo ) is a water - soluble group , the product becomes water - soluble due to the increasing number of ethylene oxides in the molecule of the reaction product as the addition reaction proceeds . the negative - type photosensitive resin composition of the present invention including component ( a ), which is the product of the michael addition reaction between components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 2 ), is superior to a photosensitive resin composition that does not contain the said product of the michael addition reaction , but contain component ( a - 2 ), in the compatibility of the composition . in addition , the water resistance of a film prepared by photo - polymerization of the former composition of the present invention is almost the same as or superior to that of the latter . this fact has been confirmed by : the comparison between the photosensitive resin composition , that contains a product of the michael addition reaction between polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ) and tetraethylenepentamine , and the composition , that does not contain the said product of the michael addition reaction , but contain polyethyleneglycol acrylate ( eo = 4 ); the comparison between a photosensitive resin composition , that contains a product of the michael addition reaction between polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 9 ) and tetraethylenepentamine , and a composition that does not contain the said product of the michael addition reaction , but contain polyethyleneglycol acrylate ( eo = 9 ). in order to control the water solubility of component ( a ), it is preferred to carry out the reaction using two or more components ( a - 2 ) each having different numbers of ethylene oxides . component ( a ) that has more excellent water solubility as well as water resistance was obtained by preparing component ( a - 2 ) as a mixture of two different components ( a - 2 ) where one was of eo = 4 and the other was of eo = 6 at a mixing ratio of 7 : 3 ( mass ratio ), compared with those of component ( a ) using a single component ( a - 2 ) having four ethylene oxides ( eo = 4 ). there is an amino group - containing compound having a structure different from that of the general formula ( i ), such as hexamethylene diamine . a reaction product obtained by the michael addition reaction between the said compound and the mixture of two different components ( a - 2 ) where one was of eo = 4 and the other was of eo = 6 at a mixing ratio of 7 : 3 ( mass ratio ) was unsolved in water , and hence could not exhibit excellency in water solubility . it is noteworthy that component ( a - 2 ) per se has a smell of ester and is unfavorable in the working environment , however , component ( a ), the product of the michael addition reaction using component ( a - 2 ), has little smell of ester , and is favorable in the working environment . the michael addition reaction in the present invention is the one between an ethylenic unsaturated double bond of component ( a - 2 ) as a bifunctional monomer and component ( a - 1 ) (“ polyvalent amino compound ”) as a compound that contains two amino groups and 1 - 4 imino groups , there is the fear of gellation depending on the reaction method . that is to say , on the addition of a small amount of component ( a - 2 ) or a bifunctional monomer , into component ( a - 1 ) or a polyvalent amino compound , thereby to allow react both two functional groups of compound ( a - 2 ), the resultant product is instantaneously gelled and insolubilized . on the other hand , in the case of the addition of component ( a - 1 ) into component ( a - 2 ), a rapid and massive addition of component ( a - 1 ) make the resultant product is instantaneously gelled and insolubilized . if the concentration of the reaction solution is too high , the reaction proceeds rapidly and forms many cross - linking points , and the reaction solution is apt to be gelled . if the concentration of the reaction solution is too low , the reaction hardly proceeds . thus , in order to prevent the gelation , it is preferred that only one of the ethylenic unsaturated double bonds in component ( a - 2 ) be subjected to the reaction , while the other be remained as it is . for performing such reaction , it is important to attain the conditions in which ( i ) component ( a - 1 ) diluted with the solvent is added in a dropwise manner into component ( a - 2 ), ( ii ) a charging molar ratio between component ( a - 2 ) and component ( a - 1 ) is controlled , and so on . in the condition ( i ) above , it is preferred that component ( a - 1 ) be dissolved in a water - soluble solvent , that does not react with component ( a - 1 ), has compatibilities with components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 2 ), and has a boiling point of 64 - 200 ° c ., thereby to obtain a solution with a concentration of 5 - 30 % by mass , preferably 10 - 20 % by mass , and add the solution into component ( a - 2 ) in a dropwise manner while stirring slowly . in the condition ( ii ), if the charging amount of component ( a - 2 ) relative to component ( a - 1 ) is too small , gelation is apt to occur , thus the components preferably be charged at a ratio of component ( a - 2 )/ component ( a - 1 )= 4 . 5 or more ( molar ratio ). when the ratio is 4 . 5 or more , gelation does not occur . if the ratio is more than 15 , water resistance and water solubility tend to be lowered . the molar ratio is preferably in the range of 4 . 5 - 15 . as the michael addition reaction proceeds sufficiently at temperatures 0 - 100 ° c ., preferably 70 - 100 ° c ., even in the absence of catalyst , any catalyst is not essentially required in the reaction , but it may be used if desired . examples of such a catalyst include alcoholates of alkaline metals , organic metal compounds , metal hydroxides , and tertiary amines . a preferable reaction time is about 1 - 10 hours , more preferably about 3 - 7 hours . the reaction solvent to be used in the michael addition reaction may be preferably a water - soluble solvent that does not react with raw materials , such as components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 2 ), while being capable of uniformly dissolving these raw materials . in the case that component ( a - 2 ) is a water - insoluble compound ( e . g ., the number of eo of the compound is about 4 - 6 ), water is not suitable for using as a solvent in the reaction because the reaction proceeds unevenly and tends to cause a gelled product . a halogen based solvent , and a solvent containing a carboxyl , a carbonyl or the like are not suitable as they react with the amino group and / or the imino group in component ( a - 1 ). a solvent containing an amino group or an imino group is not suitable as it reacts with the unsaturated double bonds in component ( a - 2 ). the michael addition reaction itself proceeds even if the solvent is of ester or petroleum . however , for the purpose of preparing a water - soluble photosensitive resin composition , it is not preferable of the contamination a water - insoluble solvent in a negative - type photosensitive resin composition , a final product of the reaction . therefore , it is preferred to avoid the use of any water - insoluble solvents . consequently , examples of the preferably usable reaction solvent may include methyl alcohol , ethyl alcohol , propyl alcohol , isopropyl alcohol , tert - butyl alcohol , n - methyl pyrrolidone , ε - caprolactam , ethylene glycol , ethyleneglycol monomethylether , ethyleneglycol monoethylether , ethyleneglycol monoacetate , ethyleneglycol monomethylether acetate , 2 -( methoxymethoxy ) ethanol , 2 - isopropoxyethanol , 2 - isopentyloxyethanol , 2 - butoxyethanol , furfuryl alcohol , tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol , tetrahydrofuran , diethyleneglycol monomethylether , diethyleneglycol monoethylether , diethyleneglycol monobutylether , triethylene glycol , tryethyleneglycol monomethylether , propyleneglycol monomethylether , propyleneglycol monoethylether , dipropyleneglycol monomethylether , dipropyleneglycol monoethylether , glycerin ethers , glycerin monoacetate , diethyleneglycol dimethylether , diethyleneglycol diethylether , tetrahydropyran , trioxane , dioxane , 1 , 2 , 6 - hexantriol , 2 - methyl - 2 , 4 - pentandiol , 2 - butene - 1 , 4 - diol , 2 , 3 - butanediol , 1 , 3 - butandiol , 1 , 3 - propanediol , 1 , 2 - propandiol , propargyl alcohol , n , n - dimethyl ethanolamine , n , n - diethyl ethanolamine , n - ethyl morpholine , methyl lactate , and ethyl lactate . the reaction solvent may appropriately be selected from the above - listed compounds with reference to its use object . a solvent having a low boiling point is preferably used for the fabrication of a photosensitive resin plate , or a dry film , as such a fabrication process includes applying a photosensitive resin composition in the form of a sheet on a substrate , thereby to make a thick coating film , and drying the thick film . in forming a comparatively thin photosensitive film , such as phosphor patterning or forming photoresist patterns for etching use in the fabrication of crt , the uniformity of the coating film tends to be impaired if is used a solvent having a low boiling point . a solvent having a comparatively high boiling point is preferable in such a process , however , a solvent having an excessively high boiling point is not preferred because of its tendency to be remained in the coating film . consequently , it is preferred to select a solvent having such an appropriate boiling point that meets use objects as well as conditions of applications . in general , it may be appropriately selected from those having their respective boiling points ranging preferably 64 - 200 ° c ., more preferably 100 - 200 ° c . for selecting an appropriate solvent , furthermore , there is a need of considering environmental sanitation issues such as toxicity . the michael addition reaction itself has been known in the art from a long ago . for instance , jp - 60 - 190427a , jp - 7 - 8908a , jp - 63 - 162660a , and jp - 7 - 331179a disclose the compositions prepared using the michael addition reaction . however , it has not been proposed at all until now as to obtain component ( a ) in the present invention by utilizing the michael addition reaction , and furthermore to obtain a negative - type photosensitive resin composition having excellent water solubility and water resistance by using component ( a ). in the michael addition reaction in the present invention , component ( a - 2 ) is preferably used together with a thermal polymerization inhibitor . examples of such a thermal polymerization inhibitor include quinone derivatives such as hydroquinone , methyl hydroquinone , and p - benzoquinone ; phenol derivatives such as 2 , 6 - di - tert - butyl - p - cresol ; and others known in the art . in the case of obtaining the product of the michael addition reaction with the addition of component ( a - 3 ), it is preferred to first dissolve the product of the michael addition reaction between components ( a - 1 ) and ( a - 2 ) in a solvent having a compatibility therewith to prepare a solution , followed by adding a solution of component ( a - 3 ) thereinto in a dropwise manner . the solution of component ( a - 3 ) is preferably prepared by using a solvent that does not react with component ( a - 3 ). the concentration of the solution is preferably about 3 - 30 % by mass , particularly about 10 - 20 % by mass . if the concentration thereof is too low , the reaction hardly proceeds . if the total amount of component ( a - 3 ) to be charged is added at once or massively , the reaction proceeds so rapidly that on some occasions the product is gelled . therefore , it is preferred to add the solution of component ( a - 3 ) slowly and carefully in a dropwise manner . the michael addition reaction sufficiently proceeds even in the absence of a catalyst at a temperature of 0 - 100 ° c ., preferably 70 - 100 ° c . therefore , there is no need of any catalyst in particular . however , it may be added if desired . examples of such a catalyst include alcoholates of alkaline metals , organic metal compounds , metal hydroxides , and tertiary amines . in the michael addition reaction , various kinds of by - products may be obtained depending on the diversity of the addition reaction , the positions of amino groups , imino groups or the like contained in the silane compound to be used . the negative - type photosensitive resin composition of the present invention has extremely excellent characteristics of , in spite of being water soluble , being excellent in film water resistance , due to the incorporation of component ( a ). in addition to component ( a ), the negative - type photosensitive resin composition further includes a binder polymer as component ( b ), and a photopolymerization initiator as component ( c ). the binder polymer as component ( b ) may be used any polymer insofar as being compatible with component ( a ), such as water - soluble binder polymer , alkaline water - soluble binder polymer , or an organic solvent - soluble binder polymer . for the purpose of preparing a water - soluble photosensitive resin composition , component ( b ) per se may also be soluble in water . examples of such a binder polymer include partially - saponified vinyl acetate resin and derivatives thereof , cellulose resins , polyvinyl pyrrolidone , polyacryl resins , water - soluble resins having double bonds on its side chain , water - soluble resins in which double bonds on its side chain have been reacted with an amino group - containing silane compound by the michael addition reaction , alkyd resin , polyethylene oxide , water - soluble polyamides having a sulfonate group and a basic group , and other various water - soluble resins . among them , the water - soluble resins in which double bonds on its side chain have been reacted with an amino group - containing silane compound by the michael addition reaction is preferable . preferred such a binder polymer includes a polymer obtained by the michael addition reaction between a polymer ( b - 1 ) having a structural unit represented by the following general formula ( vii ): wherein r 5 is a hydrogen or a methyl , r 6 is a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbon group having an unsaturated double bond capable of being subjected to the michael addition reaction , wherein the hydrocarbon group may include at least one group selected from the following groups in its structure : and an organic silicon compound ( b - 2 ) containing an amino group and / or an imino group described below . component ( b ) may be selected from those of soluble in water , alkaline water , or an organic solvent . the solubility of component ( b ) can appropriately be adjusted by selecting repetitive units that make up component ( b - 1 ), the reaction ratio of component ( b - 2 ), and so on . the “ hydrocarbon group ” in the general formula ( vii ) is a group consisting of hydrogen atoms and carbon atoms , however , in component ( b - 1 ) in the present invention , it may include each of three groups ( a carbonyl , an imino group , and an ethereal oxygen atom ) as described above . either of an aromatic hydrocarbon group and an aliphatic hydrocarbon group may be used as the hydrocarbon group . among them , the aliphatic hydrocarbon group is preferable . the “ double bond capable of being subjected to the michael addition reaction ” is preferably an ethylenic double bond . the structural unit represented by the general formula ( vii ) is preferably one represented by the following general formula ( xi ): wherein each of r 5 and r 10 independently represents a hydrogen or a methyl , and r 11 is a divalent hydrocarbon group in which a hydroxyl group may be substituted , wherein the hydrocarbon group may include at least one group selected from the following groups in its structure : furthermore , from the point of improving water solubility , in the general formula ( xi ), it is preferred that r 5 and r 10 each represent a methyl , and r 11 represents — ch 2 ch ( oh ) ch 2 o — or — r 12 oconh —, wherein r 12 is a divalent saturated hydrocarbon group having 2 - 4 carbon atoms . in particular , r 12 may preferably be — c 3 h 6 —. component ( b - 1 ) may preferably have a structural unit represented by the following formula ( xii ), in addition to the polymer having the structural unit represented by the general formula ( vii ): wherein r 5 is the same as defined above , r 13 is a hydrogen , or a hydrocarbon group in which a hydroxyl group is substituted , wherein that the hydrocarbon group may include one selected from the following groups in its structure : this indicates that the structural unit represented by the general formula ( xii ) is remained in component ( b ) when component ( b ) is prepared by the michael addition reaction between components ( b - 1 ) and ( b - 2 ). introducing the structural unit into component ( b ) may control the characteristics of component ( b ) ( i . e ., water solubility , alkaline water solubility , organic solvent solubility , and so on ). in the general formula ( xii ), it is preferred that r 5 be a methyl , r 12 be a hydrogen or — r 14 oh , wherein r 14 is a divalent saturated hydrocarbon group having 2 - 4 carbons . ( i ) a compound produced by a ring - opening addition reaction between a polymer having a carboxyl group on its side chain and an epoxy - containing compound having the ethylenic double bond in its molecular structure , thereby introduced the ethylenic double bond into the side chain of the polymer ; ( ii ) a compound produced by a reaction between a polymer having a hydroxyl group on its side chain and an isocyanate - containing compound having the ethylenic double bond in its molecular structure , thereby introduced the ethylenic double bond into the side chain of the polymer ; and ( iii ) a compound produced by an esterification reaction between a polymer having a hydroxyl group on its side chain and an carboxyl group - containing compound having the ethylenic double bond in its molecular structure , thereby introduced the ethylenic double bond into the side chain of the polymer . in item ( i ) above , the polymer having a carboxyl group on its side chain may be a homopolymer of ( meth ) acrylic acid , a copolymer of ( meth ) acrylic acid and a monomer ( comonomer ) copolymerizable therewith . examples of the monomer ( comonomer ) include maleic acid , itaconic acid , ( meth ) acrylate compounds ( e . g ., methyl ( meth ) acrylate , ethyl ( meth ) acrylate , butyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - ethylhexyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxyethyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxypropyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxybutyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - phenoxy - 2 - hydroxypropyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 -( meth ) acryloyloxy - 2 - hydroxypropyl phthalate , glycerin mono ( meth ) acrylate , tetrahydrofurfuryl ( meth ) acrylate , dimethylamino ( meth ) acrylate , glycidyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 , 2 , 2 - trifluoroethyl ( meth ) acrylate , and 2 , 2 , 3 , 3 - tetrafluoropropyl ( meth ) acrylate ), ( meth ) acrylate half esters of phthalic acid derivatives , styrene , methylvinyl ether , acrylonitrile , and n - methylol ( meth ) acrylate . the polymer can easily be prepared by well - known radical polymerization reaction using one or more monomers ( copolymers ) selected from these monomers . the physical properties of the polymer can easily be controlled by the selection of the monomers at will to obtain the desired polymer . examples of such an epoxy - containing compound having an ethylenic double bond in its molecular structure include alicyclic epoxy - containing unsaturated compounds such as glycidyl acrylate , glycidyl methacrylate , allylglycidyl ether , α - ethylglycidyl ether , crotonylglycidyl ether , itaconic acid monoalkyl ester monoglycidyl ester , and 3 , 4 - epoxycyclohexyl methyl ( meth ) acrylate . these compounds may be used singly or in a combination of two or more thereof . the amount of the epoxy - containing compound to be added is preferably about 10 - 50 % by mole , more preferably about 25 - 30 % by mole with respect to the total amount of the polymer having the carboxyl on its side chain . if the amount of the epoxy - containing compound is too small , the etching resistance tends to be decreased due to poor photo - curing of the photosensitive resin composition . if it is too much , on the other hand , it tends to cause poor exposure , water - insolubilization due to an increase in tackiness of the coating surface of the photosensitive resin composition . the ring - opening addition reaction between the polymer having a carboxyl group on its side chain and the epoxy - containing compound having a double bond in its molecular structure may be conducted by mixing the polymer , the epoxy - containing compound , a catalyst , and a thermal polymerization inhibitor together and stirring the mixture while heating at temperatures of 50 - 100 ° c . for about 5 - 20 hours . if the temperature is too high , it causes the decrease in heat stabilities of various raw materials . examples of such a catalyst include tertiary amines such as trimethylamine , triethylamine , and benzyldimethylamine , and quaternary ammonium salts such as triethylammonium chloride , benzyltrimethylammonium bromide , and benzyltrimethylammonium iodide . the amount of the catalyst may be preferably about 0 . 1 - 10 % by mass with respect to the total amount of the reaction mixture of raw materials . examples of such a thermal polymerization inhibitor include hydroquinone , methyl hydroquinone , hydroquinone monomethylether , catechol , tertiary butylcatechol , and pyrogallol . the amount of the thermal polymerization inhibitor may preferably be in the range of about 0 . 01 - 1 % by mass with respect to the total amount of the reaction mixture of raw materials . in item ( ii ) above , examples of the polymer having a hydroxyl group on its side chain include a homopolymer or a copolymer prepared using one or more compounds having a hydroxyl group such as 2 - hydroxyethyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxypropyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxybutyl ( meth ) acrylate , and 2 - phenoxy - 2 - hydroxypropyl ( meth ) acrylate , or a copolymer between at least one of these compounds and a monomer ( or comonomer ) copolymerizable therewith . here , the comonomer to be used include , for example , comonomers exemplified in the above compound ( i ). the polymer having a hydroxyl group on its side chain can easily be prepared by well - known radical polymerization reaction using one or more various monomers ( comonomers ) described above . the physical properties of the polymer may easily be controlled by optionally choosing monomers above , thereby to obtain the desired polymer meets the use object . as the isocyanate - containing compound having a double bond in its molecular structure , methacryloyl isocyanate is exemplified . in item ( iii ) above , the polymer having a hydroxyl group on its side chain may be selected from those described in item ( ii ). the carboxyl group - containing compound having a double bond in its molecular structure include ( meth ) acrylic acid , or maleic anhydride . for preparing component ( b - 1 ), the methods are described in items ( i )-( iii ) above , but are not limited thereto . the polymer prepared by the method described in item ( i ) is most preferable for the purpose of preparing a water - soluble photosensitive resin composition . a compound produced by a ring - opening addition reaction between a polymer having an epoxy group on its side chain and a carboxyl group - containing compound having a ethylenic double bond in its molecular structure , thereby introduced the ethylenic double bond into the side chain of the polymer ( e . g . a reaction product between polyvinyl glycidyl ester and ( meth ) acrylic acid , a reaction product between an epoxy - containing acrylic polymer and ( meth ) acrylic acid , a reaction product between a novolac epoxy resin and ( meth ) acrylic acid , and a reaction product between an epoxy resin having an alicyclic epoxy and ( meth ) acrylic acid ) has often remained epoxy group therein , and is not preferable . as component ( b - 2 ), the same compound as the one represented by the above general formula ( iii ) ( wherein y , r 3 , r 4 , p , and q are respectively the same as defined above ) is preferably used . that is , component ( b - 2 ) may be preferably selected from the same compounds as those that are preferably used as component ( a - 3 ). component ( b - 2 ) may be more preferably selected from the compounds represented by the above general formulae ( iv ), ( v ), and ( vi ) ( wherein r 2 , r 3 , and r 4 are respectively the same as defined above ). in the michael addition reaction between components ( b - 1 ) and ( b - 2 ), it is preferred that component ( b - 1 ) be dissolved in a solvent having compatibility therewith to prepare a polymer solution , and then adding a solution of component ( b - 2 ) in a dropwise manner thereinto . the solution of component ( b - 2 ) is preferably prepared using a solvent that does not react with component ( b - 2 ). the concentration of a solution of component ( b - 2 ) is preferably about 5 - 30 % by mass , more preferably about 10 - 20 % by mass . if the concentration of the solution is too low , the reaction hardly proceeds . if the total amount of component ( b - 2 ) to be charged is added at once or massively , the reaction proceeds so rapidly that on some occasions the product ( polymer ) is gelled . therefore , it is preferred to add the solution of component ( b - 2 ) slowly and in a dropwise manner . the michael addition reaction between components ( b - 1 ) and ( b - 2 ) sufficiently proceeds even in the absence of a catalyst at a temperature of 0 - 100 ° c ., preferably 70 - 100 ° c . therefore , there is no need of any catalyst in particular . however , it may be added if desired . examples of such a catalyst include alcoholates of alkaline metals , organic metal compounds , metal hydroxides , and tertiary amines . the reaction formula of the michael addition reaction between components ( b - 1 ) and ( b - 2 ) is may be simply illustrated as follows . the michael addition reaction may proceed mainly as the following reaction formula , however , various kinds of the products may be caused as by - products depending on the positions of the amino group and / or the imino group in the silane compound to be used , and the diversity of the addition reaction . in component ( b ), a part of the ethylenic double bond in the polymer &# 39 ; s side chain of component ( b - 1 ) is cross - linked with component ( b - 2 ) by conducting the michael reaction between components ( b - 1 ) and ( b - 2 ), resulting in the improvement in water resistance . component ( b ) becomes a partially cross - linked polymer without gelation by partial cross - linking reaction between the backbone chains of the polymers , which is accompanied with the michael addition reaction . component ( b ) can be prepared as one of water - soluble , alkaline water - soluble , and organic solvent - soluble polymers by appropriately selecting the variety , the mixing amount , and so on of various kinds of raw materials such as monomers ( comonomers ) as described above in items ( i )-( iii ), epoxy - containing compounds , isocyanate group - containing compounds , carboxyl - containing compounds , and organic silicon compounds . furthermore , using the above polymer makes it possible to prepare each of a water - soluble photosensitive resin composition , an alkaline - soluble photosensitive resin composition , and an organic solvent soluble photosensitive resin composition . the above polymer is particularly suitable for preparing the water - soluble photosensitive resin composition , and said water - soluble photosensitive resin composition using such a polymer exhibits outstanding water resistance as well as etching resistance . these polymers may be used singly or as a combination of two or more thereof . the photopolymerization initiator as component ( c ) in the present invention is not limited to a specific one . any photopolymerization initiators well known in the art may be used . example of such a photopolymerization initiator include benzophenone derivatives such as benzophenone , 2 , 4 , 6 - trimethyl benzophenone , 2 - hydroxy - 4 - alkoxybenzophenone , 4 , 4 ′- bis ( dimethylamino ) benzophenone ( i . e ., michler &# 39 ; s ketone ), 4 , 4 ′- bis ( diethylamino ) benzophenone , and 4 - methoxy - 4 ′- dimethylaminobenzophenone , benzoin derivatives such as benzoin , benzoin isopropylether , benzoin isomethylether , benzoin isoethylether , benzoin isobutylether , and benzoin phenylether , benzyl derivatives such as benzyl , dibenzyl , benzyldiphenyl disulfide , and benzyldimethyl ketal , xanthone derivatives such as xanthone , thioxanthone , 2 - chlorothioxanthone , 2 - methylthioxanthone , 2 , 4 - diethylthioxanthone , and 2 - ethylthioxanthone , acetophenone derivatives such as acetophenone , 2 , 2 ′- diethoxyacetophenone , p - t - butyldichloroacetophenone , and 2 , 2 ′- dichloro - 4 - phenoxyacetophenone , anthraquinone derivatives such as chloroanthraquinone , 2 - methylanthraquinone , 2 - ethylanthraquinone , 2 - carboxyanthraquinone , anthraquinone - 2 - sulfonic acid sodium salt , anthraquinone - 2 , 6 - disulfonic acid sodium salt , and anthraquinone - 2 , 7 - disulfonic acid sodium salt , acridine derivatives such as 9 - phenyl acridine , and 1 , 7 - bis ( 9 , 9 ′- acridinyl ) heptane , phenanthrenequinone , 2 , 4 , 6 - trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphineoxide , bis ( 2 , 4 , 6 - trimethylbenzoyl ) phenylphosphineoxide , bis ( 2 , 6 - dimethoxybenzoyl )- 2 , 4 , 4 - trimethyl - pentylphosphineoxide , oligo [ 2 - hydroxy - 2 - methyl - 1 -[ 4 -( 1 - methylvinyl ) phenyl ] propanone ], 1 - hydroxycyclohexylphenyl ketone , 2 - hydroxy - 2 - methyl - 1 - phenyl - 1 - propane - 1 - on , 2 - methyl - 1 -[ 4 -( methylthio ) phenyl ]- 2 - morphorinopropane - 1 - on , 1 -[ 4 -( 2 - hydroxyethoxy ) phenyl ]- 2 - hydroxy - 2 - methyl - 1 - propane - 1 - on , and 2 - benzyl - 2 - dimethylamino - 1 -( 4 - morphorinophenyl ) butane - 1 - one . component ( c ) may be used singly or as a combination of two or more thereof . for preparing the water - soluble photosensitive resin composition , water - soluble photopolymerization initiators are preferably used , but not limited thereto . comparing with the total amount of solids in the composition , the amount of such an initiator is only a few , so that photopolymerization initiators insoluble in water can also be used in the present invention . the negative - type photosensitive resin composition of the present invention may optionally include component ( d ), which is a photopolymerizable compound having at least one ethylenic unsaturated bond in the molecular structure . examples of component ( d ) include many compounds that are insoluble in water . for preparing the water - soluble photosensitive resin composition , one having an excellent compatibility with the water - soluble component ( b ) is preferable . examples of component ( d ) include a condensate obtained by reaction between n - methylol ( meth ) acrylamide and urea or a urea derivative ( e . g ., dimethoxymethyl urea ) as disclosed in jp - 54 - 3790b , or a ( meth ) acrylamide methylene group - containing compound which is a condensate obtained by reaction between components ( d - 1 ) and ( d - 2 ) described below . among them , the ( meth ) acrylamide methylene group - containing compound is more preferable in terms of its water solubility . in particular , when it is combined with the above component ( a ), it is possible to prepare a negative - type photosensitive resin composition having a high sensitivity , which is effectively prevented from an influence of oxygen ( desensitizing action ). in particular , the condensate between n - methylol ( meth ) acrylamide and urea or a urea derivative is preferably used in the fabrication of a printing photosensitive resin plate or the like . the above preferable compound that contains a ( meth ) acrylamide methylene group can be obtained by reacting compound ( d - 1 ) having at least one alcoholic hydroxyl group in its molecular structure and compound ( d - 2 ) represented by the following general formula ( viii ) in the presence of a strong acid catalyst : wherein r 7 is a hydrogen or a methyl , and r 8 is a hydrogen or an alkyl having 1 - 4 carbon atoms . the resulted product is represented by the general formula ( ix ): component ( d - 1 ) is preferably a non - basic compound , more preferably a polyvalent alcohol . examples of such a polyvalent alcohol include ethylene glycol , diethyleneglycol , 1 , 2 - propanediol , 1 , 3 - propanediol , 1 , 2 - butanediol , 1 , 3 - butanediol , 1 , 4 - butanediol , 2 , 3 - butanediol , 2 - butene - 1 , 4 - diol , 2 - methyl - 2 , 4 - pentanediol , 2 - ethyl - 1 , 3 - hexanediol , 1 , 2 , 6 - hexanetriol , dipropyleneglycol , triethyleneglycol , tetraethyleneglycol , polyethyleneglycol , polypropyleneglycol , neopentylglycol , 1 , 5 - pentane diol , 1 , 6 - hexane diol , trimethylol propane , glycerine , diglycerine , polyglycerine , polyoxyethylene ( n ) diglyceryl ether , polyoxypropylene ( n ) diglyceryl ether , pentaerythritol , dipentaerythritol , tris ( 2 - hydroxyethyl ) isocyanurate , 3 - chloro - 1 , 2 - propanediol , 2 , 2 ′- thiodiethanol , and poly ( oxyethylene - oxypropylene ) derivatives . among them , preferable are ethylene glycol , diethyleneglycol , 1 , 3 - propanediol , 1 , 4 - butanediol , triethyleneglycol , 1 , 6 - hexanediol , trimethylol propane , glycerine , pentaerythritol , and tris ( 2 - hydroxyethyl ) isocyanurate . component ( d - 1 ) may be used singly or in a combination of two or more threreof . diethanol amine , n - butyldiethanol amine , triethanol amine , tri - isopropanol amine , etc ., also have two or more hydroxyl groups , however , they are not preferable as each of them is of basic , so the acidic catalyzing action can be decreased . in addition , even though their systems can be shifted to acidic by an excess amount of acid catalyst , a water - absorbing action of the salts being formed provides a resulting condensate with poor water resistance after the photo - polymerization . examples of the compounds represented by the general formula ( viii ) ( where r 7 and r 8 are the same as defined above ) as component ( d - 2 ) include n - methylol ( meth ) acrylamide , n - methoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide , n - ethoxymethyl ( meth ) acryalamide , n - propoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide , and n - butoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide . the strong acid catalysts to be used in the condensation reaction between components ( d - 1 ) and ( d - 2 ) may be preferably those showing a strong acidity of about ph 3 or less during the condensation reaction . in the present invention , preferably , the strong acid catalyst may be at least one selected from sulfuric acid , hydrochloric acid , nitric acid , p - toluene sulfonic acid , and ammonium chloride . ammonium chloride causes the evaporation of ammonia as a result of thermal degradation , and provides an acidity of hydrochloric acid . therefore , it can be included in the group of strong acid catalysts . in the present invention , p - toluene sulfonic acid is most preferable , as it allows to prepared a compound having excellent water resistance . the strong acid catalyst may be used individually or in combinations of two or more . the amount of the strong acid catalyst is defined such that the ph value in the reaction system falls within the range described above . if the ph in the reaction system is about 4 or more , it becomes difficult to obtain a compound having excellent water resistance . the strong acid catalyst may be added just the way as it is , or it may be added the way in the form of a solution dissolved in a solvent . however , as the condensation reaction proceeds by dehydration or dealcoholization reaction , the solvent may be preferably one except water and alcohol . when a non - strong acid catalyst such as phosphoric acid or the like is used in the condensation reaction between components ( d - 1 ) and ( d - 2 ), a water - soluble photosensitive resin composition compounded in the resulting component ( d ) may provide a coating film with tackiness . therefore , it is not suitable for a contact exposure where a negative film is brought into close contact with a photoresist at the time of exposing to light ( e . g ., at the time of fabricating a shadow mask ). that is , a uniform exposure cannot be attained . furthermore , the resulting condensation product ( photopolymerizable monomer ) has so poor water resistance after the irradiation of light , that it is not suitable for the etching mask photoresist . the condensation reaction between components ( d - 1 ) and ( d - 2 ) in the presence of a strongly acid catalyst produces a ( meth ) acrylamide methylene group - containing compound ( condensation reaction product ) represented by the above general formula ( ix ) ( wherein r 7 is the same as defined above ). examples of the condensation reaction product preferably include a condensate between n - methylol ( meth ) acrylamide or n - methoxymethyl methacrylamide and pentaerythritol , a condensate between n - methylol ( meth ) acrylamide or n - methoxymethyl methacrylamide and glycerine , and a condensate between n - methylol ( meth ) acrylamide or n - methoxymethyl methacrylamide and trimethylol propane . in the above condensation reaction , the ratio of the charging amount ( m mole ) of component ( d - 2 ) represented by the general formula ( viii ) to the amount ( n mole ) of hydroxyl group in component ( d - 1 ) is preferably approximately by the equation of m = 1 / n to 1 . 5 n ( mole ), more preferably m = 1 / n to 1 . 2 n ( mole ), and most preferably m = 1 / n to 1 . 0 n ( mole ). the generation of a dimer of component ( d - 2 ) can be prevented by adjusting the amount of component ( d - 2 ) within the above range . as a result , a ( meth ) acrylamide methylene group - containing compound of component ( d ), can be obtained in a high yield . if the amount of the compound represented by the general formula ( viii ) is too much , the etching resistance can be observed at the least . however , the detailed observation finds that there is a defect in a coating film , which is remained in the form of eaves protruding over the etched portion ( the substrate is subjected to corrosion in a wider area than the dimension of the photoresist in etching ). this is because the photoresist film may become too hard . when the phenomenon of causing waves or defects on the eaves - shaped hanging - over portion is observed , the etching solution flows excessively only over that portion . as a result , the etching is performed excessively at that portion or the etching solution cannot flow uniformly all over , so that the final metal etching pattern becomes non uniform and results in an inferior product . on the other hand , if the amount of the compound represented by the general formula ( viii ) is too small , it results in poor etching resistance . at the time of reaction , two or more condensates ( component ( d )) may be mixed together at varied molar ratios to blend the mixture with a negative water - soluble photosensitive resin composition of the present invention . in this case , it is also preferable to define an average usage amount of the compound represented by the general formula ( viii ) within the above suitable range . the condensation reaction can also be conducted in an inactive solvent . it also may be conducted without solvent : the melting point of the compound represented by the general formula ( viii ) is , for example , 75 ° c . for n - methylolacrylamide and 25 ° c . ( room temp .) or less for c 1 - 4 alkoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide . therefore , the reaction can proceed in a molten state with component ( d - 1 ) without solvent . the condensation reaction may be conducted while blowing dried air at room temperature or being heated ( about 40 - 100 ° c . ), and contents of water and alcohol generated may be discharged outside together with the air . since the reaction proceeds as condensation reaction with dehydration or dealcoholization , it is a matter of course that the contents of water or alcohol in the reaction system should be managed carefully . the product thus obtained by the condensation between components ( d - 1 ) and ( d - 2 ) is soluble in water as well as in a mixed solvent of water and water - soluble solvent . in this case , there is no released suspended matter floating on the surface of the waste developer after the development . therefore , there is no chance to cause environment deterioration by bad smell and the risk of inflammability . furthermore , the above condensation product has a photo - polymerizing property ( photo - curing property ) and a coating film thereof obtained after the irradiation of light has excellent water resistance . heretofore , most of the photopolymerizable monomers ( the photo - curing monomers ) incorporated in water - soluble photosensitive resin compositions are insoluble in water as described above ( e . g ., ( meth ) acrylic ester - based monomer ). if they are developed using water , the monomer is released and floated on the surface of the developer . therefore , the processing of waste developer becomes difficult . in addition , problems of the risks of flammability , the dispersion of bad smell , and so on have been caused in the art . water - soluble photopolymerizable monomers are also known in the art ( e . g ., jp - 57 - 124730a , jp - 60 - 101531a , and jp - 3 - 172301a ). however , the conventional monomers have some disadvantages of insufficient water resistance , etching resistance , and resolution after the irradiation of light , and thus are hardly endurable in use as photoresists for etching masks . heretofore , as described above , water - soluble photo - polymerizable monomers endurable to the formation of ultra fine - pattern in the fabrication of electronic parts or the like have not been attained . therefore , there was no conventional water - soluble photosensitive resin composition having excellent water resistance and capable of being developed with water and used as an etching mask photoresist . however , the fabrication of such a composition has been allowed by the present invention at the first time . in addition , the water - soluble photosensitive resin composition obtained by the present invention has excellent etching resistance endurable to a long - time etching . furthermore , monofunctional vinyl monomers and poly - functional vinyl monomers known in the art can also be used as component ( d ) besides the compounds described above depending on purposes . particularly , they can advantageously be used in the case of preparing photosensitive resin compositions soluble in alkaline water and organic solvents instead of preparing water - soluble photosensitive resin composition . examples of such a monofunctional vinyl monomer include ( meth ) acrylamide , methylol ( meth ) acrylamide , methoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide , ethoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide , propoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide , butoxy methoxymethyl ( meth ) acrylamide , methyl ( meth ) acrylate , ethyl ( meth ) acrylate , butyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - ethylhexyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxyethyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxypropyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - hydroxybutyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 - phenoxy - 2 - hydroxypropyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 -( meth ) acryloyl oxy - 2 - hydroxypropyl phthalate , glycerine mono ( meth ) acrylate , tetrahydrofurfuryl ( meth ) acrylate , dimethylamino ( meth ) acrylate , glycidyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 , 2 , 2 - trifluoroethyl ( meth ) acrylate , 2 , 2 , 3 , 3 - tetrafluoropropyl ( meth ) acrylate , ( meth ) acrylate half esters of phthalic acid derivatives , and n - methylol ( meth ) acrylamide . examples of such a polyfunctional vinyl monomer include ethyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , diethyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , tetraethyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , polyethyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , propyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , polypropyleneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , butylenesglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , neopentylglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , 1 , 6 - hexaneglycol di ( meth ) acrylate , trimethylolpropane tri ( meth ) acrylate , glycerine di ( meth ) acrylate , pentaerythritol di ( meth ) acrylate , pentaerythritol tri ( meth ) acrylate , dipentaerythritol penta ( meth ) acrylate , 2 , 2 - bis ( 4 -( meth ) acryloxydiethoxyphenyl ) propane , 2 , 2 - bis ( 4 -( meth ) acryloxypolyethoxyphenyl ) propane , 2 - hydroxy - 3 -( meth ) acryloyloxylpropyl ( meth ) acrylate , ethyleneglycol diglycidylether di ( meth ) acrylate , diethyleneglycol diglycidylether di ( meth ) acrylate , phthalic acid diglycidylester di ( meth ) acrylate , glycerine triacrylate , glycerine polyglycidylether poly ( meth ) acrylate , urethane ( meth ) acrylate ( e . g ., reaction products between diisocyanate compounds such as tolylene diisocyanate , trimethylhexamethylene diisocyanate , and hexamethylene diisocyanate , and 2 - hydroxyethyl ( meth ) acrylate ). component ( d ) may be used singly or in a combination of two or more thereof . the amount of each component in the photosensitive resin composition of the present invention is as follows . the following description is in the case of incorporating component ( d ). if component ( d ) is not contained in the composition , the amount of component ( d ) is calculated as zero ( 0 ) art by mass . the amount of each of components ( a ) and ( d ) is preferably 5 - 80 parts by mass , more preferably 10 - 70 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the total amount of components ( a ), ( b ), and ( d ) ( solid contents ). if the amount of each component ( a ), ( d ) is too much , the physical properties of the resulting composition would not be satisfied because of poor coating properties and a brittle photo - cured material to be formed . in the case of incorporating component ( d ) in the composition , the ratio of component ( d ) to component ( a ) is preferably represented as ( d )/( a )= 95 / 5 to 5 / 95 ( mass ratio ). the amount of component ( b ) is preferably 5 - 80 parts by mass , more preferably 10 - 70 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the total amount of components ( a ), ( b ), and ( d ) ( solid contents ). if the amount of component ( b ) exceeds 80 parts by mass , it becomes difficult to obtain a sufficient sensitivity . on the other hand , if it is less than 5 parts by mass , poor coating property is obtained . the amount of component ( c ) is preferably 0 . 1 - 10 parts by mass , more preferably 0 . 3 - 7 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the total amount of the compositions ( a ), ( b ), and ( d ) ( solid contents ). if the amount of component ( c ) is less than 0 . 1 parts by mass , there is the fear of causing insufficient sensitivity . if it exceeds 10 parts by mass , the solubility of the composition is lowered and the composition is then precipitated , so an extremely deteriorated pattern resolution may be caused after the exposure . in addition , increase in optical - absorption on the surface of the film may deteriorate the photo - curing at the lower part of the film in film thickness . the negative - type photosensitive resin composition of the present invention may further contain , if required , a leveling agent , a thermal polymerization inhibitor , a color generating agent , a coloring agent such as dye and pigment , a filler , an adhesion - promoting agent , and a plasticizer besides main components ( a ), ( b ), ( c ), and ( d ). these optional additives are not limited to specific ones and may be selected from those well known in the art . the negative - type photosensitive resin composition of the present invention , which is obtained as described above , can be used for the formation of photoresist for etching without changing any manufacturing apparatus used for the conventional chrome - based photosensitive resin composition . for instance , in the case of using the negative - type photosensitive resin composition of the present invention in the formation of photoresist for etching , components ( b ), ( c ), and ( d ) are added in a solution ( e . g ., an aqueous solution ) containing component ( a ) and are then mixed together , followed by applying the mixture as a photoresist coating solution on a metal substrate , such as a 42 - alloy material that contains 42 % nickel , an invar material that contains 36 % nickel , a low - carbon aluminum killed steel , a stainless steel , and a copper substrate , etc ., and then drying to form a coating film . the solvent may be water , an alkaline aqueous solution , an organic solvent such as alcohol , or the like . subsequently , a pattern mask having a desired pattern is brought into close contact with the surface of the coating film and is then exposed to light , followed by developing with water and passing through the step of baking to complete a photoresist for etching . coating means is not limited to a specific one . any means such as a roll coater , a curtain flow coater , a spray coater , a dip coater , or a bar coater may be used . the dry thickness of the coating film is preferably about 1 - 30 μm , more preferably about 3 - 20 μm . exposure means is not limited to a specific one . any means such as an extra - high pressure mercury lamp , a chemical lamp , a black lamp , or an arc lamp may be used . preferably , an exposure lamp that emits light having a wavelength corresponding to an absorption wavelength of the photopolymerization initiator may be selected . the development may be performed by way of spraying , dipping , showering , or the like . the photosensitive resin composition of the present invention is excellent in the adhesiveness especially to iron - based alloys , so that it can appropriately be used in the formation of photo masks for the etching of iron / nickel alloy , iron / chrome alloy ( stainless steel ), or the like . in the present invention , the method of etching is not limited to a specific one , however , a wet etching ( an etching solution may be a ferric chloride solution or the like ) is preferable because of allowing the photosensitive resin composition of the present invention to exert excellent advantages . the following examples are provided for further illustrating the present invention but are in no way to be taken as limiting . 30 g of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( the number of ethylene oxides is 4 ( i . e ., eo = 4 )) and 0 . 01 g of hydroquinone monomethylether were charged into a flask and were then stirred while heating in a hot - water bath at a temperature of 85 ° c . when an increase in temperature of the inside of the flask was observed , a solution prepared by dissolving 1 . 5 g of tetraethylenepentamine in 10 g of methyl alcohol was added into the flask through a separatory funnel for 30 minutes in a dropwise manner . after that , the mixture in the flask was further heated and stirred for 4 . 5 hours . then , the flask was taken out of the hot - water bath to terminate the reaction . consequently , a product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ) was obtained . the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ) was obtained in a flask in the same manner as that of synthetic example 1 . then , a solution prepared by dissolving 1 . 5 g of n - β ( aminoethyl ) γ - aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (“ kbm603 ” manufactured by shin - etsu chemical co ., ltd .) in 10 g of methyl alcohol was added into the flask through a separatory funnel for 30 minutes in a dropwise manner . after that , the mixture in the flask was further heated and stirred for 4 . 5 hours . then , the flask was taken out of the hot - water bath to terminate the reaction . consequently , a product 2 of the michael addition reaction ( 62 . 27 % by mass solution ; a secondary product of the michael addition reaction ) was obtained . 30 g of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ) and 0 . 01 g of hydroquinone monomethylether were charged into a flask and were then stirred while heating in a hot - water bath at a temperature of 85 ° c . when an increase in temperature of the inside of the flask was observed , a solution prepared by dissolving 1 . 5 g of tetraethylenepentamine in 10 g of ethyl lactate was added into the flask through a separatory funnel for 30 minutes in a dropwise manner . after that , the mixture in the flask was further heated and stirred for 4 . 5 hours . then , the flask was taken out of the hot - water bath to terminate the reaction . consequently , a product 3 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 9 % by mass solution ) was obtained . 20 . 3 g of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ), 8 . 7 g of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 6 ), and 0 . 01 g of hydroquinone monomethylether were charged into a flask and were then stirred while heating in a hot - water bath at a temperature of 85 ° c . when an increase in temperature of the inside of the flask was observed , a solution prepared by dissolving 1 . 5 g of tetraethylenepentamine in 10 g of ethyl lactate was added into the flask through a separatory funnel for 30 minutes in a dropwise manner . after that , the mixture in the flask was further heated and stirred for 4 . 5 hours . then , the flask was taken out of the hot - water bath to terminate the reaction . consequently , a product 4 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 31 % by mass solution ) was obtained . the product 4 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 31 % by mass solution ) was obtained in a flask in the same manner as that of synthetic example 4 . then , a solution prepared by dissolving 0 . 5 g of n - β ( aminoethyl ) γ - aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (“ kbm603 ” manufactured by shin - etsu chemical co ., ltd .) in 10 g of ethyl lactate was added into the flask through a separatory funnel for 30 minutes in a dropwise manner . after that , the mixture in the flask was further heated and stirred for 4 . 5 hours . then , the flask was taken out of the hot - water bath to terminate the reaction . consequently , a product 5 of the michael addition reaction ( 61 . 51 % by mass solution ; a secondary product of the michael addition reaction ) was obtained . 20 . 3 g of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ), 8 . 7 g of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 6 ), and 0 . 01 g of hydroquinone monomethylether were charged into a flask and were then stirred while heating in a hot - water bath at a temperature of 85 ° c . when an increase in temperature of the inside of the flask was observed , a solution prepared by dissolving 1 . 5 g of tetraethylenepentamine and 0 . 5 g of n - β ( aminoethyl ) γ - aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (“ kbm603 ” manufactured by shin - etsu chemical co ., ltd .) in 10 g of ethyl lactate was added into the flask through a separatory funnel for 30 minutes in a dropwise manner . after that , the mixture in the flask was further heated and stirred for 4 . 5 hours . then , the flask was taken out of the hot - water bath to terminate the reaction . consequently , a product 6 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 62 % by mass solution ) was obtained . a product 7 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 62 % by mass solution ) was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 6 , except that diethylenetriamine was used instead of tetraethylenepentamine . a product 8 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 62 % by mass solution ) was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 6 , except that triethylenetetramine was used instead of tetraethylenepentamine . a product 9 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 62 % by mass solution ) was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 6 , except that pentaethylenehexamine was used instead of tetraethylenepentamine . a product 10 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 62 % by mass solution ) was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 6 , except that “ heavy polyamine x ” ( manufactured by union carbide corporation ) was used instead of tetraethylenepentamine . the present inventors confirmed that each of the products 1 - 10 of the michael addition reaction obtained in respective synthetic examples 1 - 10 was soluble in water when the water was added , so that we concluded that these products were water - soluble compounds , respectively . a product 11 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 31 % by mass solution ) was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 4 , except that hexamethylene diamine was used instead of tetraethylenepentamine . the present inventors confirmed that the product 11 of the michael addition reaction was insoluble in water when the water was added . a product of the michael addition reaction was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 1 , except that 1 , 6 - hexanediol di ( meth ) acrylate was used instead of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ). and furthermore , using the reaction product , a product 12 of the michael addition reaction ( a secondary product of the michael addition reaction ) was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 2 . the present inventors confirmed that the product 12 of the michael addition reaction was insoluble in water when the water was added . a product of the michael addition reaction was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 1 , except that polytetramethyleneglycol diacrylate was used instead of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ). and furthermore , using the reaction product , a product 13 of the michael addition reaction ( a secondary product of the michael addition reaction ) was obtained in the same manner as that of synthetic example 2 . the present inventors confirmed that the product 13 of the michael addition reaction was insoluble in water when the water was added . a stirrer , a thermometer , a reflux condenser , and a dropping funnel were attached to a separable flask . then , 500 g of a 20 % by mass solution of polymethacrylic acid (“ jurymer ac30h ” manufactured by nihon junyaku co ., ltd .) was poured into the flask and was then heated . when the temperature - reached at 95 ° c ., 1 . 12 g of triethylamine , 0 . 11 g of hydroquinone monomethylether , and 47 . 9 g of glycidylmethacrylate were added to allow the reaction to proceed for 4 . 5 hours . subsequently , a solution obtained by dissolving 1 . 00 g of n - β ( aminoethyl ) γ - aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (“ kbm603 ” manufactured by shin - etsu chemical co ., ltd .) in 5 . 6 g of ethyl alcohol was added into the flask through a separatory funnel for 60 minutes in a dropwise manner to allow the reaction to proceed for another 3 . 5 hours . after terminating the reaction , 195 g of ethyl lactate was added in the reaction product to obtain a polymer ( 20 % by mass solution ) as a final product . [ 0209 ] 68 g of pentaerythritol and 202 g of n - methylolacrylamide were heated to melt . then , 2 . 08 g of p - toluene sulfonic acid was added in the melted mixture , followed by stirring for 1 . 5 hours . subsequently , water was added in the mixture and then the mixture was neutralized by the addition of ammonia water . and furthermore , the mixture was diluted with water to obtain a photopolymerizable compound ( 40 % by mass aqueous solution ) as a final product . a negative - type photosensitive resin composition was prepared as follows . first , 100 parts by mass of poval ( pva505 , manufactured by kuraray co ., ltd .) having a saponification degree of 71 . 5 - 74 . 5 mole % and a polymerization degree of 500 were dissolved in a mixture of 100 parts by mass of water and 20 parts by mass of methyl alcohol . then , 50 parts by mass of a condensate between n - methylolacrylamide and dimethoxymethyl urea as component ( d ), 8 parts by mass of benzyldimethylketal as component ( c ), 65 . 9 parts by mass of the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ) prepared in synthetic example 1 as component ( a ), and 0 . 05 parts by mass of methyl hydroquinone as the thermal polymerization inhibitor were added in the above solution to prepare a negative - type photosensitive resin composition . the resulting negative - type photosensitive resin composition was applied on a polyester film using an applicator and was then dried by subjecting to a drying machine for overnight . consequently , a photosensitive film of 0 . 7 mm in thickness was formed , and it was a transparent thick film where no content seeps out of the surface thereof . the photosensitive film was bonded on the surface of an iron plate being coated with an adhesive such that the film was located on the outside . subsequently , a vacuum contact exposure to light from a 5 - kw extra - high pressure mercury lamp was performed for 20 seconds using a negative film . after that , the pattern formation was performed by brush development with water . consequently , a photosensitive resin plate , on which a desired pattern on the negative film was accurately reproduced , was obtained . a visual observation was conducted to find the oil content ( separated substance being suspended ) on the surface of the waste developer in a tank for collecting waste developer . as a result , there was no oil content floated on the surface of the waste developer and also there was no smell generated from the oil content . furthermore , when the resulted photosensitive resin plate was used as a printing plate , a printed matter having a good retention of ink was obtained . a photosensitive film was obtained in the same manner as that of example 1 , except that 50 parts by mass of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ) was used instead of 65 . 9 parts by mass of the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ). the present inventors observed that the contents seeped out of the surface of the photosensitive film , and also there was a smell of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ). subsequently , a photosensitive resin plate was formed in the same manner as that of example 1 . a visual observation was conducted to find the oil content ( separated substance being suspended ) on the surface of the waste developer in a tank for collecting waste developer . as a result , there was the oil content floated on the surface of the waste developer and also there was a smell of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ). a photosensitive film was prepared in the same manner as that of example 1 , except that 80 . 3 parts by mass of the product 2 of the michael addition reaction ( 62 . 27 % by mass solution , a secondary product of the michael addition reaction ) instead of 65 . 9 parts by mass of the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ) the photosensitive film was a transparent thick film from which any content of the photosensitive film did not seep . next , just as in the case with example 1 , a photosensitive resin plate was prepared . a visual observation was conducted to determine the presence or absence of the oil content ( separated substance being suspended ) on the surface of the waste developer in the tank for collecting waste developer . as a result , there was no oil content on the liquid surface and also there was no generation of bad smell . furthermore , when the resulted photosensitive resin plate was used as a printing plate , a printed matter having a good retention of ink was obtained . first , 13 . 6 parts by mass of a binder polymer ( 20 % by mass solution ) prepared in synthetic example 11 ( provided as component ( b )), 6 parts by mass of a condensate between n - methylolacrylamide and pentaerythritol , which is a photo - polymerizable compound ( 40 % by mass solution ) prepared in synthetic example 12 ( provided as component ( d )), 0 . 144 parts by mass of benzildimethylketal ( provided as component ( c )), 0 . 66 parts by mass of the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ) prepared in synthetic example 1 ( provided as component ( a )), and 0 . 01 parts by mass of methyl hydroquinone as the thermal polymerization inhibitor were mixed and dissolved together to prepare a negative - type photosensitive resin composition . the resulting composition was coated on an iron plate of 125 μm in thickness using a bar coater no . 30 and was then dried at a temperature of 70 ° c . next , the coated iron plate was subjected to the exposure to light from a 5 - kw extra - high pressure mercury lamp for 20 seconds ( 74 mj ), followed by the development using a shower of tap water . consequently , a negative photoresist pattern for etching was formed . subsequently , the plate was subjected to a baking treatment at 230 ° c . for 10 minutes and then to an etching treatment using a ferric chloride solution ( a baume degree of 45 ) at 45 ° c . for 5 minutes , followed by washing with water and drying to obtain an etching sample . in the process of etching a metal , by the way , the metal is typically etched in a wider area than the width of a photoresist pattern . thus , the photoresist on the metal etching pattern protrudes over like eaves ( side etch ). in this etching sample , the resulting photoresist coating is a superior film without swelling and delamination , but a simply partial defect in the eaves . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 3 , except that 0 . 827 parts by mass of the product 5 of the michael addition reaction ( 61 . 51 % by mass solution , a secondary product of the michael addition reaction ) prepared in synthetic example 5 was used instead of 0 . 67 parts by mass of the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ). in the etching sample , no defect in the eaves was observed , and the resulting photoresist coating was a superior film without swelling and delamination . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 3 , except that 0 . 51 parts by mass of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 9 ) was used instead of 0 . 67 parts by mass of the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91 % by mass solution ). the etching sample was evaluated just as in the case with example , 3 . as a result , there was a defect in the eaves and a wavy portion caused by swelled eaves . therefore , the photosensitive resin composition was not suitable for being used as a coating film . furthermore , a visual observation was conducted to determine the presence or absence of the oil content ( separated substance being suspended ) on the surface of the waste developer in the tank for collecting waste developer . as a result , there was no oil content on the liquid surface , however there was a smell of ester . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 3 , except that 0 . 51 parts by mass of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate ( eo = 4 ) was used instead of 0 . 67 parts by mass of the product 1 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 91t by mass solution ). the etching sample was evaluated just as in the case with example 3 . as a result , there was no defect in the eaves and also no wavy portion caused by swelling in the eaves . however , the component had a poor compatibility with the resin . it was observed that the content seeped out of the surface of the photosensitive film after coating and drying . furthermore , a visual observation was conducted to determine the presence or absence of the oil content ( separated substance being suspended ) on the surface of the waste developer in the tank for collecting waste developer . as a result , the oil content was found on the liquid surface with a smell of ester . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 4 , except that the product 6 of the michael addition reaction prepared in synthetic example 6 was used instead of the product 5 of the michael addition reaction . in the etching sample , no defect in the eaves was observed , and the resulting photoresist coating was a superior film without swelling and delamination . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 4 , except that the product 7 of the michael addition reaction prepared in synthetic example 7 was used instead of the product 5 of the michael addition reaction . the etching sample had a little defect in the eaves . however , it is no problem from a practical standpoint . the resulting photoresist coating was a superior film without swelling and delamination . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 4 , except that the product 8 of the michael addition reaction prepared in synthetic example 8 was used instead of the product 5 of the michael addition reaction . the etching sample had a little defect in the eaves . however , it was no problem from a practical standpoint . the resulting photoresist coating was a superior film without swelling and delamination . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 4 , except that the product 9 of the michael addition reaction prepared in synthetic example 9 was used instead of the product 5 of the michael addition reaction . in the etching sample , no defect in the eaves was observed , and the resulting photoresist coating was a superior film without swelling and delamination . an etching sample was obtained in the same manner as that of example 4 , except that the product 10 of the michael addition reaction prepared in synthetic example 10 was used instead of the product 5 of the michael addition reaction . in the etching sample , no defect in the eaves was observed , and the resulting photoresist coating was a superior film without swelling and delamination . 131 . 7 pats by mass of poval (“ poval gh20 ” manufactured by nippon synthetic chemical industry co ., ltd .) with a saponification degree of 86 . 5 - 89 % and a polymerization degree of 2350 ( 10 % by mass solution ) ( provided as component ( b )), 168 . 75 parts by mass of a condensate between n - methylolacrylamide and pentaerythritol ( a photopolymerizable compound prepared in synthetic example 12 ( 40 % by mass aqueous solution ))( provided as component ( d )), 22 . 4 parts by mass of the product 3 of the michael addition reaction ( 75 . 9 % by mass solution ) prepared in synthetic example 3 ( provided as component ( a )), and 0 . 014 parts by mass of methylhydroquinone provided as the thermal polymerization inhibitor were mixed together . then , the mixture was further mixed with 3 . 66 parts by mass of water and dissolved . at last , 300 parts by mass of a phosphor for color tv (“ p22 - b1 ” manufactured by kasei optonix , ltd .) were mixed with and dispersed in the mixture to prepare a negative - type photosensitive resin composition . the resulting composition was provided as a slurry for the phosphor patterning and was then coated on a glass plate ( 1 mm in thickness and 10 cm in width ) by spin - coating at 400 rpm , followed by drying at 70 ° c . for 20 minutes . then , the glass plate was subjected to the exposure to light through a shadow mask placed at a position about 5 mm away from the surface of the film on the glass plate . subsequently , the glass plate was subjected to the development using a shower of water to obtain the phosphor pattern . the film thickness of the phosphor pattern thus obtained was 12 μm . furthermore , the above steps were additionally repeated two times . that is , using the above coating solution ( the slurry of the phosphor ), the steps from the coating to the phosphor patterning were repeated two times on the substrate on which the above phosphor pattern was formed . during the exposure , three exposure treatments in total were performed such that the patterning positions were not overlapped on each other by shifting the exposure position of each treatment from the others . the resulting phosphor patterns were observed . as a result , each phosphor pattern formed by each of three patterning steps was one having a uniform shape without changes in the thickness of the phosphor and the width of strip . these patterns exhibited their excellent water resistance , respectively . the negative - type photosensitive resin composition prepared using the product of the michael addition reaction of the present invention provides excellent water resistance and excellent etching resistance when used as a photoresist pattern . therefore , in the case of the wet - etching treatment on a metal substrate , the etching solution causes a little or negligible change in the shape of the pattern ( e . g ., defected , swelled , or deformed photoresist pattern ). therefore , the composition can preferably be used as an etching photoresist . the composition can preferably be used as a slurry for the phosphor patterning of crt because of no change in thickness and width of the pattern even though the phosphor pattern is repetitively subjected to the developer . the composition is also suitable for a water - soluble photosensitive resin plate of being affected by variations in humidity . furthermore , the composition can broadly be favorable in the fields of dry - film photoresist , aqueous photosensitive paint , and aqueous photosensitive adhesives , etc . | US-35747203-A |
a peripheral device comprises a first entity and a second entity . in operation , the first / second entities are configured to respectively : receive a first / second entity - related message from at least one other device to indicate the availability of the at least one other device for attachment , send , to the at least one other device , a first / second entity - related message indicating the availability for communication with the at least one other device , receive , from the at least one other device , a first / second entity - related signal including a first / second entity - related peripheral device identifier , send a first / second entity - related response to the at least one other device , receive , from the at least one other device , a first / second entity - related device response , and send , to the at least one other device , a first / second entity - related second peripheral response including the first / second entity - related peripheral device identifier . | the following detailed description of the invention refers to the accompanying drawings . the same reference numbers in different drawings identify the same or similar elements . also , the following detailed description does not limit the invention . instead , the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims . systems and methods consistent with the present invention provide a wireless personal area network that permits a host device to communicate with a varying number of peripheral devices with minimal interference from neighboring networks . the host device uses tokens to manage all of the communication in the network , and automatic attachment and detachment mechanisms to communicate with the peripheral devices . a personal area network ( pan ) is a local network that interconnects computers with devices ( e . g ., peripherals , sensors , actuators ) within their immediate proximity . these devices may be located nearby and may frequently or occasionally come within range and go out of range of the computer . some devices may be embedded within an infrastructure ( e . g ., a building or vehicle ) so that they can become part of a pan as needed . a pan , in an implementation consistent with the present invention , has low power consumption and small size , supports wireless communication without line - of - sight limitations , supports communication among networks of multiple devices ( over 100 devices ), and tolerates interference from other pan systems operating within the vicinity . a pan can also be easily integrated into a broad range of simple and complex devices , is low in cost , and is capable of being used worldwide . fig1 is a diagram of a pan 100 consistent with the present invention . the pan 100 includes a single hub device 110 surrounded by multiple personal electronic accessory ( pea ) devices 120 configured in a star topology . other topologies may also be possible . each device is identified by a media access ( mac ) address . the hub 110 orchestrates all communication in the pan 100 , which consists of communication between the hub 110 and one or more pea ( s ) 120 . the hub 110 manages the timing of the network , allocates available bandwidth among the currently attached peas 120 participating in the pan 100 , and supports the attachment , detachment , and reattachment of peas 120 to and from the pan 100 . the hub 110 may be a stationary device or may reside in some sort of wearable computer , such as a simple pager - like device , that may move from peripheral to peripheral . the hub 110 could , however , include other devices . the peas 120 may vary dramatically in terms of their complexity . a very simple pea might include a movement sensor having an accelerometer , an 8 - bit microcontroller , and a pan interface . an intermediate pea might include a bar code scanner and its microcontroller . more complex peas might include pdas , cellular telephones , or even desktop pcs and workstations . the peas may include stationary devices located near the hub and / or portable devices that move to and away from the hub . the hub 110 and peas 120 communicate using multiplexed communication over a predefined set of streams . logically , a stream is a one - way communications link between one pea 120 and its hub 110 . each stream has a predetermined size and direction . the hub 110 uses stream numbers to identify communication channels for specific functions ( e . g ., data and control ). the hub 110 uses mac addresses to identify itself and the peas 120 . the hub 110 uses its own mac address to broadcast to all peas 120 . the hub 110 might also use mac addresses to identify virtual peas within any one physical pea 120 . the hub 110 combines a mac address and a stream number into a token , which it broadcasts to the peas 120 to control communication through the network 100 . the pea 120 responds to the hub 110 if it identifies its own mac address or the hub mac address in the token and if the stream number in the token is active for the mac address of the pea 120 . fig2 is a simplified block diagram of the hub 110 of fig1 . the hub 110 may be a battery - powered device that includes hub host 210 , digital control logic 220 , radio frequency ( rf ) transceiver 230 , and an antenna 240 . hub host 210 may include anything from a simple microcontroller to a high performance microprocessor . the digital control logic ( dcl ) 220 may include a controller that maintains timing and coordinates the operations of the hub host 210 and the rf transceiver 230 . the dcl 220 is specifically designed to minimize power consumption , cost , and size of the hub 110 . its design centers around a time - division multiple access ( tdma )- based network access protocol that exploits the short range nature of the pan 100 . the hub host 210 causes the dcl 220 to initialize the network 100 , send tokens and messages , and receive messages . responses from the dcl 220 feed incoming messages to the hub host 210 . the rf transceiver 230 includes a conventional rf transceiver that transmits and receives information via the antenna 240 . the rf transceiver 230 may alternatively include separate transmitter and receiver devices controlled by the dcl 220 . the antenna 240 includes a conventional antenna for transmitting and receiving information over the network . while fig2 shows the exemplary hub 110 as consisting of three separate elements , these elements may be physically implemented in one or more integrated circuits . for example , the hub host 210 and the dcl 220 , the dcl 220 and the rf transceiver 230 , or the hub host 210 , the dcl 220 , and the rf transceiver 230 may be implemented as a single integrated circuit or separate integrated circuits . moreover , one skilled in the art will recognize that the hub 110 may include additional elements that aid in the sending , receiving , and processing of data . fig3 is a simplified block diagram of the pea 120 . the pea 120 may be a battery - powered device that includes a pea host 310 , dcl 320 , rf transceiver 330 , and an antenna 340 . the pea host 310 may include a sensor that responds to information from a user , an actuator that provides output to the user , a combination of a sensor and an actuator , or more complex circuitry , as described above . the dcl 320 may include a controller that coordinates the operations of the pea host 310 and the rf transceiver 330 . the dcl 320 sequences the operations necessary in establishing synchronization with the hub 110 , in data communications , in coupling received information from the rf transceiver 330 to the pea host 310 , and in transmitting data from the pea host 310 back to the hub 110 through the rf transceiver 330 . the rf transceiver 330 includes a conventional rf transceiver that transmits and receives information via the antenna 340 . the rf transceiver 330 may alternatively include separate transmitter and receiver devices controlled by the dcl 320 . the antenna 340 includes a conventional antenna for transmitting and receiving information over the network . while fig3 shows the exemplary pea 120 as consisting of three separate elements , these elements may be physically implemented in one or more integrated circuits . for example , the pea host 310 and the dcl 320 , the dcl 320 and the rf transceiver 330 , or the pea host 310 , the dcl 320 , and the rf transceiver 330 may be implemented as a single integrated circuit or separate integrated circuits . moreover , one skilled in the art will recognize that the pea 120 may include additional elements that aid in the sending , receiving , and processing of data . fig4 is an exemplary diagram of a software architecture 400 of the hub 110 in an implementation consistent with the present invention . the software architecture 400 in the pea 120 has a similar structure . the software architecture 400 includes several distinct layers , each designed to serve a specific purpose , including : ( 1 ) application 410 , ( 2 ) link layer control ( llc ) 420 , ( 3 ) network interface ( ni ) 430 , ( 4 ) link layer transport ( llt ) 440 , ( 5 ) link layer driver ( lld ) 450 , and ( 6 ) dcl hardware 460 . the layers have application programming interfaces ( apis ) to facilitate communication with lower layers . the lld 450 is the lowest layer of software . each layer may communicate with the next higher layer via procedural upcalls that the higher layer registers with the lower layer . the application 410 may include any application executing on the hub 110 , such as a communication routine . the llc 420 performs several miscellaneous tasks , such as initialization , attachment support , bandwidth control , and token planning . the llc 420 orchestrates device initialization , including the initialization of the other layers in the software architecture 400 , upon power - up . the llc 420 provides attachment support by providing attachment opportunities for unattached peas to attach to the hub 110 so that they can communicate , providing mac address assignment , and initializing an ni 430 and the layers below it for communication with a pea 120 . the llc 420 provides bandwidth control through token planning . through the use of tokens , the llc 420 allocates bandwidth to permit one pea 120 at a time to communicate with the hub 110 . the ni 430 acts on its own behalf , or for an application 410 layer above it , to deliver data to the llt 440 beneath it . the llt 440 provides an ordered , reliable “ snippet ” ( i . e ., a data block ) delivery service for the ni 430 through the use of encoding ( e . g ., 16 - 64 bytes of data plus a cyclic redundancy check ( crc )) and snippet retransmission . the llt 440 accepts snippets , in order , from the ni 430 and delivers them using encoded status blocks ( e . g ., up to 2 bytes of status information translated through forward error correction ( fec ) into 6 bytes ) for acknowledgments ( acks ). the lld 450 is the lowest level of software in the software architecture 400 . the lld 450 interacts with the dcl hardware 460 . the lld 450 initializes and updates data transfers via the dcl hardware 460 as it delivers and receives data blocks for the llt 440 , and processes hardware interrupts . the dcl hardware 460 is the hardware driven by the lld 450 . fig5 is an exemplary diagram of communication processing by the layers of the software architecture 400 of fig4 . in fig5 , the exemplary communications involve the transmission of a snippet from one node to another . this example assumes that the sending node is the hub 110 and the receiving node is a pea 120 . processing begins with the ni 430 of the hub 110 deciding to send one or more bytes ( but no more than will fit ) in a snippet . the ni 430 exports the semantics that only one transaction is required to transmit these bytes to their destination ( denoted by “( 1 )” in the figure ). the ni 430 sends a unique identifier for the destination pea 120 of the snippet to the llt 440 . the llt 440 maps the pea identifier to the mac address assigned to the pea 120 by the hub 110 . the llt 440 transmits the snippet across the network to the receiving device . to accomplish this , the llt 440 adds header information ( to indicate , for example , how many bytes in the snippet are padded bytes ) and error checking information to the snippet , and employs reverse - direction status / acknowledgment messages and retransmissions . this is illustrated in fig5 by the bidirectional arrow between the llt 440 layers marked with “( n + m ).” the number n of snippet transmissions and the number m of status transmissions in the reverse direction are mostly a function of the amount of noise in the wireless communication , which may be highly variable . the llt 440 may also encrypt portions or all of the snippet using known encryption technology . the llt 440 uses the lld 450 to provide a basic block and stream - oriented communications service , isolating the dcl 460 interface from the potentially complex processing required of the llt 440 . the llt 440 uses multiple stream numbers to differentiate snippet and status blocks so that the lld 450 need not know which blocks contain what kind of content . the lld 450 reads and writes the hardware dcl 460 to trigger the transmission and reception of data blocks . the pea llt 440 , through the pea lld 450 , instructs the pea dcl 460 which mac address or addresses to respond to , and which stream numbers to respond to for each mac address . the hub llt 440 , through the hub lld 450 , instructs the hub dcl 460 which mac addresses and stream numbers to combine into tokens and transmit so that the correct pea 120 will respond . the hub dcl 460 sends and receives ( frequently in a corrupted form ) the data blocks across the rf network via the hub rf transceiver 230 ( fig2 ). the hub llt 440 employs fec for status , checksums and error checking for snippets , and performs retransmission control for both to ensure that each snippet is delivered reliably to its client ( e . g ., pea llt 440 ). the pea llt 440 delivers snippets in the same order that they were sent by the hub ni 430 to the pea ni 430 . the pea ni 430 takes the one or more bytes sent in the snippets and delivers them in order to the higher - level application 410 , thereby completing the transmission . fig6 is an exemplary diagram of a data block architecture 600 within the dcl of the hub 110 and the pea 120 . the data block 600 contains a mac address 610 designating a receiving or sending pea 120 , a stream number 620 for the communication , and a data buffer 630 which is full when sending and empty when receiving . as will be described later , the mac address 610 and stream number 620 form the contents of a token 640 . when the lld 450 reads from and writes to the hardware dcl 46 . 0 , the lld 450 communicates the mac address 610 and stream number 620 with the data buffer 630 . when a pea 120 receives a data block , the dcl 460 places the mac address 610 and stream number 620 contained in the preceding token 640 in the data block 600 to keep track of the different data flows . the lld 450 provides a multi - stream data transfer service for the llt 440 . while the llt 440 is concerned with data snippets and status / acknowledgements , the lld 450 is concerned with the size of data blocks and the direction of data transfers to and from the hub 110 . fig7 a is a detailed diagram of an exemplary stream usage plan 700 in an implementation consistent with the present invention . a single stream usage plan may be predefined and used by the hub 110 and all peas 120 . the pea 120 may have a different set of active streams for each mac address it supports , and only responds to a token that specifies a mac address of the pea 120 and a stream that is active for that mac address . in an implementation consistent with the present invention , every pea 120 may support one or more active hub - to - pea streams associated with the hub &# 39 ; s mac address . the stream usage plan 700 includes several streams 710 - 740 , each having a predefined size and data transfer direction . the plan 700 may , of course , have more or fewer entries and may accommodate more than the two data block sizes shown in the figure . in the plan 700 , streams 0 - 2 ( 710 ) are used to transmit the contents of small data blocks from the pea 120 to the hub 110 . streams 3 - 7 ( 720 ) are used to transmit the contents of larger data blocks from the pea 120 to the hub 110 . streams 8 - 10 ( 730 ), on the other hand , are used to transmit the contents of small data blocks from the hub 110 to the pea 120 . streams 11 - 15 ( 740 ) are used to transmit the contents of larger data blocks from the hub 110 to the pea 120 . to avoid collisions , some of the streams are reserved for peas desiring to attach to the network and the rest are reserved for peas already attached to the network . with such an arrangement , a pea 120 knows whether and what type of communication is scheduled by the hub 110 based on a combination of the mac address 610 and the stream number 620 . fig7 b is a detailed diagram of an exemplary stream usage assignment by the llt 440 in an implementation consistent with the present invention . the llt 440 assigns different streams to different communication purposes , reserving the streams with small block size for status , and using the streams with larger block size for snippets . for example , the llt 440 may use four streams ( 4 - 7 and 12 - 15 ) for the transmission of snippets in each direction , two for odd parity snippets and two for even parity snippets . in other implementations consistent with the present invention , the llt 440 uses different numbers of streams of each parity and direction . the use of more than one stream for the same snippet allows a snippet to be sent in more than one form . for example , the llt 440 may send a snippet in its actual form through one stream and in a form with bytes complemented and in reverse order through the other stream . the alternating use of different transformations of a snippet more evenly distributes transmission errors among the bits of the snippet as they are received , and hence facilitates the reconstruction of a snippet from multiple corrupted received versions . the receiver always knows which form of the snippet was transmitted based on its stream number . the llt 440 partitions the streams into two disjoint subsets , one for use with hub 110 assigned mac addresses 750 and the other for use with attaching peas &# 39 ; self - selected mac addresses ( amacs ) 760 . both the llt 440 and the lld 450 know the size and direction of each stream , but the llt 450 is responsible for determining how the streams are used , how mac numbers are assigned and used , and assuring that no two peas 120 respond to the same token ( containing a mac address and stream number ) transmitted by the hub 110 . one exception to this includes the hub &# 39 ; s use of its mac address to broadcast its heartbeat 770 ( described below ) to all peas 120 . fig8 is an exemplary diagram of a tdma frame structure 800 of a tdma plan consistent with the present invention . the tdma frame 800 starts with a beacon 810 , and then alternates token broadcasts 820 and data transfers 830 . the hub 110 broadcasts the beacon 810 at the start of each tdma frame 800 . the peas 120 use the beacon 810 , which may contain a unique identifier of the hub 110 , to synchronize to the hub 110 . each token 640 ( fig6 ) transmitted by the hub 110 in a token broadcast 820 includes a mac address 610 ( fig6 ) and a stream number 620 for the data buffer 630 transfer that follows . the mac address 610 and stream number 620 in the token 640 together specify a particular pea 120 to transmit or receive data , or , in the case of the hub &# 39 ; s mac address 610 , specify no , many , or all peas to receive data from the hub 110 ( depending on the stream number ). the stream number 620 in the token 640 indicates the direction of the data transfer 830 ( hub 110 to pea 120 or pea 120 to hub 110 ), the number of bytes to be transferred , and the data source ( for the sender ) and the appropriate empty data block ( for the receiver ). the tdma plan controls the maximum number of bytes that can be sent in a data transfer 830 . not all of the permitted bytes need to be used in the data transfer 830 , however , so the hub 110 may schedule a status block in the initial segment of a tdma time interval that is large enough to send a snippet . the hub 110 and pea 120 treat any left over bytes as no - ops to mark time . any pea 120 not involved in the data transfer uses all of the data transfer 830 bytes to mark time while waiting for the next token 640 . the pea 120 may also power down non - essential circuitry at this time to reduce power consumption . fig9 a is an exemplary diagram of communication processing for transmitting a single data block from the hub 110 to a pea 120 according to the tdma plan of fig8 . fig9 b and 9c are flowcharts of the hub 110 and pea 120 activities , respectively , of fig9 a . the reference numbers in fig9 a correspond to the flowchart steps of fig9 b and 9c . with regard to the hub activity , the hub 110 responds to a token command in the tdma plan [ step 911 ] ( fig9 b ) by determining the location of the next data block 600 to send or receive [ step 912 ]. the hub 110 reads the block &# 39 ; s mac address 610 and stream number 620 [ step 913 ] and generates a token 640 from the mac address and stream number using fec [ step 914 ]. the hub 110 then waits for the time for sending a token 640 in the tdma plan ( i . e ., a token broadcast 820 in fig8 ) [ step 915 ] and broadcasts the token 640 to the peas 120 [ step 916 ]. if the stream number 620 in the token 640 is zero ( i . e ., a no - data - transfer token ), no pea 120 will respond and the hub 110 waits for the next token command in the tdma plan [ step 911 ]. if the stream number 620 is non - zero , however , the hub 110 determines the size and direction of the data transmission from the stream number 620 and waits for the time for sending the data in the tdma plan ( i . e ., a data transfer 830 ) [ step 917 ]. later , when instructed to do so by the tdma plan ( i . e ., after the pea 120 identified by the mac address 610 has had enough time to prepare ), the hub 110 transmits the contents of the data buffer 630 [ step 918 ]. the hub 110 then prepares for the next token command in the tdma plan [ step 919 ]. with regard to the pea activity , the pea 120 reaches a token command in the tdma plan [ step 921 ] ( fig9 c ). the pea 120 then listens for the forward error - corrected token 640 , having a mac address 610 and stream number 620 , transmitted by the hub 110 [ step 922 ]. the pea 120 decodes the mac address from the forward error - corrected token [ step 923 ] and , if it is not the pea &# 39 ; s 120 mac address , sleeps through the next data transfer 830 in the tdma plan [ step 924 ]. otherwise , the pea 120 also decodes the stream number 620 from the token 640 . all peas 120 listen for the hub heartbeat that the hub 110 broadcasts with a token containing the hub &# 39 ; s mac address 610 and the heartbeat stream 770 . during attachment ( described in more detail below ), the pea 120 may have two additional active mac addresses 610 , the one it selected for attachment and the one the hub 110 assigned to the pea 120 . the streams are partitioned between these three classes of mac addresses 610 , so the pea 120 may occasionally find that the token 640 contains a mac address 610 that the pea 120 supports , but that the stream number 620 in the token 640 is not one that the pea 120 supports for this mac address 610 . in this case , the pea 120 sleeps through the next data transfer 830 in the tdma plan [ step 924 ]. since the pea 120 supports more than one mac address 610 , the pea 120 uses the mac address 610 and the stream number 620 to identify a suitable empty data block [ step 925 ]. the pea 120 writes the mac address 610 and stream number 620 it received in the token 640 from the hub 110 into the data block [ step 926 ]. the pea 120 then determines the size and direction of the data transmission from the stream number 620 and waits for the transmission of the data buffer 630 contents from the hub 110 during the next data transfer 830 in the tdma plan [ step 927 ]. the pea 120 stores the data in the data block [ step 928 ], and then prepares for the next token command in the tdma plan [ step 929 ]. fig9 a - 9c illustrate communication of a data block from the hub 110 to a pea 120 . when the pea 120 transfers a data block to the hub 110 , similar steps occur except that the hub 110 first determines the next data block to receive ( with its mac address 610 and stream number 620 ) and the transmission of the data buffer 630 contents occurs in the opposite direction . the hub 110 needs to arrange in advance for receiving data from peas 120 by populating the mac address 610 and stream number 620 into data blocks with empty data buffers 630 , because the hub 110 generates the tokens for receiving data as well as for transmitting data . fig1 a and 10b are high - level diagrams of the states that the hub 110 and pea 120 llt 440 ( fig4 ) go through during a data transfer in an implementation consistent with the present invention . fig1 a illustrates states of a hub - to - pea transfer and fig1 b illustrates states of a pea - to - hub transfer . during the hub - to - pea transfer ( fig1 a ), the hub 110 cycles through four states : fill , send even parity , fill , and send odd parity . the fill states indicate when the ni 430 ( fig4 ) may fill a data snippet . the even and odd send states indicate when the hub 110 sends even numbered and odd numbered snippets to the pea 120 . the pea 120 cycles through two states : want even and want odd . the two states indicate the pea &# 39 ; s 120 desire for data , with ‘ want even ’ indicating that the last snippet successfully received had odd parity . the pea 120 communicates its current state to the hub 110 via its status messages ( i . e ., the state changes serve as acks ). the hub 110 waits for a state change in the pea 120 before it transitions to its next fill state . during the pea - to - hub transfer ( fig1 b ), the hub 110 cycles through six states : wait / listen for pea - ready - to - send - even status , read even , send ack and listen for status , wait / listen for pea - ready - to - send - odd status , read odd , and send ack and listen for status . according to this transfer , the pea 120 cannot transmit data until the hub 110 requests data , which it will only do if it sees from the pea &# 39 ; s status that the pea 120 has the next data block ready . the four listen for status states schedule when the hub 110 asks to receive a status message from the pea 120 . the two ‘ send ack and listen for status ’ states occur after successful receipt of a data block by the hub 110 , and in these two states the hub 110 schedules both the sending of hub status to the pea 120 and receipt of the pea status . the pea status informs the hub 110 when the pea 120 has successfully received the hub 110 status and has transitioned to the next ‘ fill ’ state . once the pea 120 has prepared its next snippet , it changes its status to ‘ have even ’ or ‘ have odd ’ as appropriate . when the hub 110 detects that the pea 120 has advanced to the fill state or to ‘ have even / odd ,’ it stops scheduling the sending of hub status ( ack ) to the pea 120 . if the hub 110 detects that the pea 120 is in the ‘ fill ’ state , it transitions to the following ‘ listen for status ’ state . if the pea 120 has already prepared a new snippet for transmission by the time the hub 110 learns that its ack was understood by the pea 120 , the hub 110 skips the ‘ listen for status ’ state and moves immediately to the next appropriate ‘ read even / odd ’ state . in this state , the hub 110 receives the snippet from the pea 120 . the pea 120 cycles through four states : fill , have even , fill , and have odd ( i . e ., the same four states the hub 110 cycles through when sending snippets ). the fill states indicate when the ni 430 ( fig4 ) can fill a data snippet . during the fill states , the pea 110 sets its status to ‘ have nothing to send .’ the pea 120 does not transition its status to ‘ have even ’ or ‘ have odd ’ until the next snippet is filled and ready to send to the hub 110 . these two status states indicate the parity of the snippet that the pea 120 is ready to send to the hub 110 . when the hub 110 receives a status of ‘ have even ’ or ‘ have odd ’ and the last snippet it successfully received had the opposite parity , it schedules the receipt of data , which it thereafter acknowledges with a change of status that it sends to the pea 120 . the hub 110 communicates with only attached peas 120 that have an assigned mac address 610 . an unattached pea can attach to the hub 110 when the hub 110 gives it an opportunity to do so . periodically , the hub 110 schedules attachment opportunities for unattached peas that wish to attach to the hub 110 , using a small set of attach mac ( amac ) addresses and a small set of streams dedicated to this purpose . after selecting one of the designated amac addresses 610 at random to identify itself and preparing to send a small , possibly forward error - corrected , “ attach - interest ” message and a longer , possibly checksummed , “ attach - request ” message using this amac and the proper attach stream numbers 620 , the pea 120 waits for the hub 110 to successfully read the attach - interest and then the attach - request messages . reading of a valid attach - interest message by the hub 110 causes the hub 110 believe that there is a pea 120 ready to send the longer ( and hence more likely corrupted ) attach - request . once a valid attach - interest is received , the hub 110 schedules frequent receipt of the attach - request until it determines the contents of the attach - request , either by receiving the block intact with a valid checksum or by reconstructing the sent attach - request from two or more received instances of the sent attach - request . the hub 110 then assigns a mac address to the pea 120 , sending the address to the pea 120 using its amac address . the hub 110 confirms receipt of the mac address by scheduling the reading of a small , possibly forward error - corrected , attach - confirmation from the pea 120 at its new mac address 610 . the hub 110 follows this by sending a small , possibly forward error - corrected , confirmation to the pea 120 at its mac address so that the pea 120 knows it is attached . the pea 120 returns a final small , possibly forward error - corrected , confirmation acknowledgement to the hub 110 so that the hub 110 , which is in control of all scheduled activity , has full knowledge of the state of the pea 120 . this mac address remains assigned to that pea 120 for the duration of the time that the pea 120 is attached . fig1 and 12 are flowcharts of hub and pea attachment processing , respectively , consistent with the present invention . when the hub 110 establishes the network , its logic initializes the attachment process and , as long as the hub 110 continues to function , periodically performs attachment processing . the hub 110 periodically broadcasts heartbeats containing a hub identifier ( selecting a new heartbeat identifier value each time it reboots ) and an indicator of the range of amacs that can be selected from for the following attach opportunity [ step 1110 ] ( fig1 ). the hub 110 schedules an attach - interest via a token that schedules a small pea - to - hub transmission for each of the designated amacs , so unattached peas may request attachment . each attaching pea 120 selects a new amac at random from the indicated range when it hears the heartbeat . because the hub 110 may receive a garbled transmission whenever more than one pea 120 transmits , the hub 110 occasionally indicates a large amac range ( especially after rebooting ) so that at least one of a number of peas 120 may select a unique amac 610 and become attached . when no peas 120 have attached for some period of time , however , the hub 110 may select a small range of amacs 610 to reduce attachment overhead , assuming that peas 120 will arrive in its vicinity in at most small groups . the hub 110 then listens for a valid attach - interest from an unattached pea [ step 1120 ]. the attach - interest is a pea - to - hub message having the amac address 610 selected by the unattached pea 120 . upon receiving a valid attach interest , the hub 110 schedules a pea - to - hub attach - request token with the pea &# 39 ; s amac 610 and reads the pea &# 39 ; s attach - request [ step 1130 ]. due to the low - power wireless environment of the pan 100 , the attach - request transmission may take more than one attempt and hence may require scheduling the pea - to - hub attach - request token more than once . when the hub 110 successfully receives the attach - request from the pea , it assigns a mac address to the pea [ step 1140 ]. in some cases , the hub 110 chooses the mac address from the set of amac addresses . the hub 110 sends the new mac address 610 in an attach - assignment message to the now - identified pea 120 , still using the pea &# 39 ; s amac address 610 and a stream number 620 reserved for this purpose . the hub 110 schedules and listens for an attach - confirmation response from the pea 120 using the newly assigned mac address 610 [ step 1150 ]. upon receiving the confirmation from the pea 120 , the hub 110 sends its own confirmation , acknowledging that the pea 120 has switched to its new mac , to the pea 120 and waits for a final acknowledgment from the pea 120 [ step 1160 ]. the hub 110 continues to send the confirmation until it receives the acknowledgment from the pea 120 or until it times out . in each of the steps above , the hub 110 counts the number of attempts it makes to send or receive , and aborts the attachment effort if a predefined maximum number of attempts is exceeded . upon receiving the final acknowledgment , the hub 110 stops sending its attach confirmation , informs its ni 430 ( fig4 ) that the pea 120 is attached , and begins exchanging both data and keep - alive messages ( described below ) with the pea 120 . when an unattached pea 120 enters the network , its llc 420 ( fig4 ) instructs its llt 440 to initialize attachment . unlike the hub 110 , the pea 120 waits to be polled . the pea 120 instructs its dcl 460 to activate and associate the heartbeat stream 770 ( fig7 b ) with the hub &# 39 ; s mac address and waits for the heartbeat broadcast from the hub 110 [ step 1210 ] ( fig1 ). the pea 120 then selects a random amac address from the range indicated in the heartbeat to identify itself to the hub 110 [ step 1220 ]. the pea 120 instructs its dcl 460 to send an attach - interest and an attach - request data block to the hub 110 , and activate and associate the streams with its amac address [ step 1230 ]. the pea 120 tells its driver to activate and respond to the selected amac address for the attach - assignment stream . the unattached pea 120 then waits for an attach - assignment with an assigned mac address from the hub 110 [ step 1240 ]. upon receiving the attach - assignment , the pea 120 finds its hub - assigned mac address and tells its driver to use this mac address to send an attach - confirmation to the hub 110 to acknowledge receipt of its new mac address [ step 1250 ], activate all attached - pea streams for its new mac address , and deactivate the streams associated with its amac address . the pea 120 waits for an attach confirmation from the hub 110 using the new mac address [ step 1260 ] and , upon receiving it , sends a final acknowledgment to the hub 110 [ step 1270 ]. the pea 120 then tells its ni 430 that it is attached . the pea 120 , if it hears another heartbeat from the hub 110 before it completes attachment , discards any prior communication and begins its attachment processing over again with a new amac . the hub 110 periodically informs all attached peas 120 that they are attached by sending them ‘ keep - alive ’ messages . the hub 110 may send the messages at least as often as it transmits heartbeats . the hub 110 may send individual small , possibly forward error - corrected , keep - alive messages to each attached pea 120 when few peas 120 are attached , or may send larger , possibly forward error - corrected , keep - alive messages to groups of peas 120 . whenever the hub 110 schedules tokens for pea - to - hub communications , it sets a counter to zero . the counter resets to zero each time the hub 110 successfully receives a block ( either uncorrupted or reconstructed ) from the pea 120 , and increments for unreadable blocks . if the counter exceeds a predefined threshold , the hub 110 automatically detaches the pea 120 without any negotiation with the pea 120 . after this happens , the hub 110 no longer schedules data or status transfers to or from the pea 120 , and no longer sends it any keep - alive messages . fig1 is a flowchart of pea detachment and reattachment processing consistent with the present invention . each attached pea 120 listens for hub heartbeat and keep - alive messages [ step 1310 ]. when the pea 120 first attaches , and after receiving each keep - alive message , it resets its heartbeat counter to zero [ step 1320 ]. each time the pea 120 hears a heartbeat , it increments the heartbeat counter [ step 1330 ]. if the heartbeat counter exceeds a predefined threshold , the pea 120 automatically assumes that the hub 110 has detached it from the network 100 [ step 1340 ]. after this happens , the pea 120 attempts to reattach to the hub 110 [ step 1350 ], using attachment processing similar to that described with respect to fig1 and 12 . if the hub 110 had not actually detached the pea 120 , then the attempt to reattach causes the hub 110 to detach the pea 120 so that the attempt to reattach can succeed . when the pea 120 is out of range of the hub 110 , it may not hear from the hub 110 and , therefore , does not change state or increment its heartbeat counter . the pea 120 has no way to determine whether the hub 110 has detached it or how long the hub 110 might wait before detaching it . when the pea 120 comes back into range of the hub 110 and hears the hub heartbeat ( and keep - alive if sent ), the pea 120 then determines whether it is attached and attempts to reattach if necessary . systems and methods consistent with the present invention provide a wireless personal area network that permit a host device to communicate with a varying number of peripheral devices with minimal power and minimal interference from neighboring networks by using a customized tdma protocol . the host device uses tokens to facilitate the transmission of data blocks through the network . the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention provides illustration and description , but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed . modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the invention . the scope of the invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents . | US-201313763604-A |
a lockbox for attaching to a surface including a housing , a lid that is selectively coupled to the housing and includes a lid lock that is arranged to selectively maintain the lid coupled to the housing and to inhibit removal therefrom . an anchoring mechanism is positioned at least partially within the housing and is moveable between an engaged position in which the lockbox is attached to the surface and a disengaged position in which the lockbox is removable from the surface . the anchoring mechanism includes an anchoring mechanism lock which inhibits movement between the engaged position and the disengaged position . | fig1 and 2 show a medical lockbox 10 that includes a housing 14 , a lid 18 , and an anchoring mechanism 22 . the housing 14 includes a housing bottom 26 , four upstanding side walls 30 , and a housing lip 34 atop the side walls 30 that defines an open top of the housing 14 . the four side walls 30 and the housing bottom 26 define an interior space 38 of the housing 14 . a silo 42 is defined in the center of the housing 14 extending from the housing bottom 26 to a plane above the side walls 30 . the illustrated silo 42 includes an upper portion 46 that is generally cylindrical or frustoconical with a slight taper and an enlarged base portion 50 . the upper portion 46 defines a flange 54 near the upper extremity of the silo 42 . the enlarged base portion 50 includes a protruding groove 58 , but is otherwise generally cylindrical or frustoconical with a slight taper and defines a diameter larger than the diameter of the upper portion 46 . the silo 42 is hollow and is open at a top and bottom such that an aperture is formed through the silo 42 . in other constructions the silo 42 may be another shape ( e . g . cone , square , rectangular , etc . ), may not extend the full height of the sidewalls , or may be located in a different position within the interior space 38 ( e . g ., adjacent a sidewall 30 ), as desired . the housing 14 also includes ribs 62 between the sidewalls and the silo 42 . the ribs 62 provide rigidity to the structure and separate storage areas for various items . in the illustrated construction , some ribs 62 may be removable . for example , two ribs 62 are removed from the front area of the lockbox 10 and only holding brackets 66 are visible . the housing 14 further includes a latch structure 70 with a latch aperture 74 . a handle 78 is pivotably coupled to the housing 14 and is sized such that it can support the weight of the lockbox 10 for carrying . in other constructions , the ribs 62 may be absent or may be shaped differently , as desired . the lid 18 includes a lid top 82 , a lid lip 86 formed around a perimeter of the lid top 82 , and a lid aperture 90 formed through the lid top 82 . the lid 18 is coupled to the housing 14 with a hinge 94 and is rotable relative to the housing 14 between an open position ( see fig2 ) and a closed position ( see fig1 ). the lid lip 86 is shaped to engage the housing lip 34 in a secure manner . in the illustrated construction ( see fig6 ), the housing lip 34 includes a projection and the lid lip 86 includes a groove sized to receive the projection . in other constructions , an o - ring or another type of seal can be positioned between the housing lip 34 and the lid lip 86 to provide additional sealing ( e . g ., against moisture ). the lid aperture 90 is positioned such that it aligns with the silo 42 when the lid 18 is in the closed position . the flange 54 formed on the silo 42 engages the lid top 82 of the lid 18 when the lid 18 is in the closed position . again , an o - ring or other seal may be provided between the flange 54 and the lid top 82 to seal the interface between the silo 42 and the lid 18 . a latch 98 is rotatably coupled to the lid 18 via a hinge 102 and is movable between a latched position ( see fig1 ) and an unlatched position . the latch 98 includes a lid lock 106 that is actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position . with the lid 18 in the closed position , the latch 98 in the latched position , and the lid lock 106 in the locked position , the latch 98 engages the latch structure 70 on the housing 14 and the lid lock 106 engages the latch aperture 74 to inhibit the latch 98 and lid 18 from moving . in other words , the lid 18 is locked in the closed position . the illustrated lid lock 106 is a keyed lock that is actuated with a lid key 110 . in other constructions , another type of lock may be used ( e . g ., code , keypad , etc .). with reference to fig3 , 5 , and 6 , the anchoring mechanism 22 is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position , and includes an anchoring mechanism lock 114 , an engagement element 118 , and a base 122 . the anchoring mechanism lock 114 is mounted in the upper portion 46 of the silo 42 adjacent the upper extremity of the silo 42 . the illustrated anchoring mechanism lock 114 is a keyed lock similar to the lid lock 106 but requiring a anchoring key 126 for actuation . the anchoring key 126 is different from the lid key 110 . in other constructions , another type of lock may be used ( e . g ., code , keypad , etc . ), and / or the anchoring key 126 could be the same as the lid key 110 . the engagement element 118 is rigidly coupled to the anchoring mechanism lock 114 such that the engagement element 118 rotates with the anchoring mechanism lock 114 when the anchoring mechanism lock 114 is actuated between the engaged position and the disengaged position . turning to fig5 , the engagement element 118 includes a circular flange 130 that defines a first mounting feature in the form of two apertures . each aperture is a keyhole slot 134 arranged radially about the circular flange 130 . a shaft 138 extends from the circular flange 130 to a top portion 142 that is shaped to engage the anchoring mechanism lock 114 . the illustrated shaft 138 defines a hollow interior and is generally frustoconically shaped . in other constructions , the shaft 138 may be solid 18 or shaped differently , as desired . the base 122 defines a substantially flat bottom surface 146 , a side projection 150 , two bosses 154 , and a top projection 158 . two fasteners 162 in the form of screws pass through the bosses 154 and secure the base 122 to a surface 164 . the fasteners 162 and the bosses 154 combine to form a second mounting feature . in other constructions , the second mounting feature may be a separate projection and fasteners or other means may be used to attach the base 122 to the surface 164 ( e . g ., glue , welding , etc .). the side projection 150 is sized to be received in the protruding groove 58 of the silo 42 to inhibit rotation of the housing 14 when mounted on the base 122 . the top projection 158 is sized to be received within the hollow interior of the engagement element 118 to aid in alignment of the housing 14 with the base 122 during installation . in operation , with the lockbox 10 not attached to the surface 164 , the base 122 is positioned as desired on the surface 164 and the fasteners 162 are driven into the surface 164 to secure the base 122 in place and complete the formation of the second mounting feature . then , with the lid 18 in the closed position , the housing 14 is positioned over the base 122 and the top projection 158 is used to align the housing 14 with the base 122 . the housing 14 is then lowered onto the base 122 such that the tops of the fasteners 162 pass into the keyhole slots 134 of the engagement element 118 . the user then actuates the anchoring mechanism lock 114 with the anchoring key 126 by accessing the anchoring mechanism lock 114 through the lid aperture 90 . the user actuates the anchoring mechanism 22 from the disengaged position to the engaged position . the engagement element 118 turns with the anchoring mechanism lock 114 such that the tops of the fasteners 162 are trapped in the keyhole slots 134 and the housing 14 is secured to the surface 164 . when the housing 14 is secured in the engaged position , the anchoring key 126 is removed and the anchoring mechanism 22 is locked in the engaged position . the lockbox 10 can then be used for storage . the user can use the lid key 110 to actuate the lid lock 106 and open / close the lid 18 to access the interior space 38 of the housing 14 . if desired , the user can lock the lid 18 in the closed position , then use the anchoring key 126 to move the anchoring mechanism 22 from the engaged position to the disengaged position and remove the lockbox 10 from the surface 164 without opening the lid 18 . subsequently , the user can replace the lockbox 10 on the base 122 and reattach it to the surface 164 without ever opening the lid 18 . alternatively , the lid 18 might not include the lid aperture 90 and the silo 42 may not extend above the side walls 30 . in such a construction , the anchoring mechanism lock 114 could be positioned within the interior space 38 of the housing 14 such that the lid 18 would be in the open position when the anchoring mechanism 22 was actuated . in the illustrated construction , the housing bottom 26 is substantially flush with the surface 164 when attached to the surface 164 such that access to the underside of the lockbox 10 is inhibited . this provides a situation wherein the only realistic or intended means for removal from the surface 164 is by use of the anchoring mechanism lock 114 . fig7 - 11 show alternative lockboxes and are numbered with like numbers to fig1 - 6 but with prime numbers . fig7 shows a lockbox 10 ′ similar to the lockbox 10 of fig1 - 6 but defining no lid aperture 90 and including one of a number of different anchoring mechanisms 22 . fig8 and 9 show a housing 14 ′ with no silo 42 and no ribs 62 . further , the anchoring mechanism 22 ′ does not include the anchoring mechanism lock 114 . rather , the anchoring mechanism 22 includes a base 122 ′, and a manually operated engagement element 170 that includes a circular flange 174 with keyholes 178 , a depression 182 sized to receive the top projection 158 ′ of the base 122 ′, and finger holds 186 that provide a place for the user to grasp the engagement element 170 and actuate it between the engaged position and the disengaged position . in light of the above description with respect to fig1 - 6 , one of skill in the art will understand the operation of the construction shown in fig8 and 9 . fig1 and 11 show a lockbox 10 ″ that does not include an anchoring mechanism 22 and wherein the housing 14 ′ does not include a silo 42 or ribs 62 . this lockbox 10 ″ is not intended to be attached to a surface 164 . various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims . | US-201213617838-A |
first and second legs are pivotally mounted in a scissor - like relationship about an adjustable pivot axle , wherein an outermost end of the legs have cooperative first and second jaws having facing mirror image surfaces arranged to secure aluminum cans . | with reference now to the drawings , and in particular to fig1 - 3 thereof , a new aluminum can handling tongs embodying the principles and concepts of the present invention will be described . more specifically , the aluminum can handling tongs of the instant invention comprises first and second legs 11 and 12 pivotally mounted relative to one another in a scissor - like arrangement about a pivot axle 13 that is adjustably positioned through cooperating first and second leg axle bores 16 and 17 of a linear array of such axle bores relative to each respective first and second legs 11 and 12 to permit varying the mechanical advantage in positioning the axle 13 through the first and second legs . first and second leg handles 14 and 15 are mounted at first ends of the respective first and second legs 11 and 12 , with return spring members 18 mounted between the first and second legs 11 and 12 to bias respective first and second jaw plates 19 and 20 together . first and second jaw plates 19 and 20 are mounted at respective second ends of the first and second legs , as shown in fig1 . the first and second jaw plates 19 and 20 are of a mirror image configuration relative to one another , having respective confronting first and second jaw planar faces 21 and 22 . the linear and generally triangular cross - sectional configuration of the jaws indicated in fig1 provides ease of piercing of the jaws into aluminum cans present within a bin , such as a refuse bin , for retrieving such aluminum cans therefrom . as best shown only for the second jaw 20 in fig2 each of the jaws further includes a linear array of teeth members 23 at its outermost end to enhance ease of projection through various components within a refuse bin . attention is directed to the recesses 30 formed in each of the first and second legs 11 and 12 and positioned medially between the jaws 19 and 20 and the pivot axle 13 . the recesses 30 are arcuate in shape and are operable to partially encompass and secure therebetween an aluminum can . accordingly , the recesses 30 may have a radius of curvature equal to that typically defined by an outer circumference of a common twelve ounce beverage can , for example . the fig3 indicates the use of first and second leg grooves 25 and 24 respectively mounted to the respective first and second legs adjacent the axle 13 between the axle and the jaws 19 and 20 to provide for mounting of resilient bands 26 about pairs of individual first and second leg grooves 25 and 24 . fig3 further illustrates the use of angled jaws 19a and 20a which are of generally l - shaped configuration and are threadedly mounted to a threaded boss 31 and 32 formed on respective first and second legs 11 and 12 . the angled jaws 19a and 20a may be employed for ease of grasping of aluminum cans present within a refuse bin . as to the manner of usage and operation of the instant invention , the same should be apparent from the above disclosure , and accordingly no further discussion relative to the manner of usage and operation of the instant invention shall be provided . with respect to the above description then , it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention , to include variations in size , materials , shape , form , function and manner of operation , assembly and use , are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art , and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention . therefore , the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention . further , since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art , it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described , and accordingly , all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to , falling within the scope of the invention . | US-27323294-A |
a method for fabricating a compound semiconductor device having a semi - insulating layer of a group iii - v compound semiconductor material that contains arsenic as a group v element . the method includes a step of growing the semi - insulating layer from a source gas of the group v element that contains both arsine and an organic compound of arsenic , wherein arsine and the organic compound of arsenic are used simultaneously with a mixing ratio to achieve a desired high resistivity in the semi - insulating layer . | first , the apparatus used for growing semi - conductor layers in the present invention will be described with reference to fig2 . referring to fig2 the growth of the semi - conductor layers is achieved epitaxially by a mocvd process . thus , the apparatus includes a reaction chamber 10 , a carbon susceptor 11 held in the chamber 10 , and an radio - frequency excitation coil 13 wounded around the reaction chamber 10 . the carbon susceptor 11 supports thereon a semiconductor substrate 12 , and elements forming the semiconductor layer to be grown are introduced into the reaction chamber 10 via valves 14 through 18 in the form of gaseous species . thereby , a semiconductor layer is grown on the substrate 12 as a result of decomposition of the gaseous species . in the present invention , gaas or a mixed crystal based on gaas is grown by introducing arsine and trimethyl gallium ( tmg ) respectively for the source of as and ga via the valves 16 and 18 . further , trimethyl aluminum ( tma ) may be introduced via the valve 17 for the growth of gaalas . the gaseous species thus introduced are transported to the reaction chamber 10 by a hydrogen carrier gas that is introduced via the valve 14 , while the reaction chamber 10 is evacuated to remove the decomposed species as usual . in the present invention , there is provided another port of the source gas , a valve 15 , for introducing tertiary butyl arsine abbreviated as tbas into the reaction chamber 10 as additional source of as . as tbas is a liquid in the ordinary temperature , a bubbler 19 is employed for producing the gaseous molecule of tbas . this tbas is an organic compound of as represented by c 4 h 9 ash 2 and has the following structural formula : ## str1 ## the material has reduced toxicity and used recently as less toxic alternative of arsine . during the study of forming semi - insulating compound semiconductor material not containing impurity elements , the present applicants have discovered that the concentration of the el2 defect in gaas is significantly increased with excellent control when tbas is mixed with arsine with appropriate ratio . with the concentration level of el2 thus controlled , it is possible to form the semiconductor material non - conductive based upon the principle explained with reference to fig1 without incorporating exotic impurity elements . fig3 shows the concentration of el2 in the gaas epitaxial layer grown on the substrate 12 as a function of the temperature employed for the growth . the growth was made by supplying tmg for the source of ga and either arsine or tbas for the source of as . in fig3 the solid line represents the el2 concentration level for the case where tbas was used for the source of as and the broken line represents the el2 concentration level for the case where arsine was used for the source of as . the growth of gaas layer was made in the temperature range of 600 ° c .- 680 ° c . as represented by the horizontal broken line in fig3 the el2 concentration level remains at about 10 14 cm - 3 irrespective of the temperature when arsine is used for the source of as . on the other hand , when tbas is used for the source of as , the el concentration level changes between 10 14 - 10 15 cm - 3 with temperature as shown by the continuous line . it should be noted that the el2 concentration level in this case is much larger , as large as ten times or more , than the conventional case in the temperature at about 600 ° c . and decreases rapidly with increasing growth temperature . fig4 shows the el2 concentration level as a function of the growth temperature for the case of gaalas grown by supplying tmg and tma simultaneously together with either of arsine or tbas . the semiconductor layer thus grown has a composition of al 0 . 28 ga 0 . 72 as . in this case , too , the concentration level of el2 is constant at about 10 15 cm - 3 irrespective of the growth temperature when arsine is used for the source of as . on the other hand , when tbas is used , the el2 concentration level changes from 10 16 cm - 3 or more to 10 15 cm - 3 with increasing temperature as represented by the continuous line . further , fig5 shows the el2 concentration level as a function of the mixing ratio of arsine and tbas for the gaalas epitaxial layer grown at 630 ° c . the gaalas layer has the composition of al 0 . 28 ga 0 . 72 as as before , and the source gases for the as and the source gases for al and ga are mixed to satisfy a relation ( ash 3 + tbas )/( tmg + tma )= 20 . as shown in fig5 the el2 concentration level increases from 10 15 cm - 3 to 10 16 cm - 3 with increasing content of tbas . the foregoing increase in the concentration level of el2 with the admixing of tbas is believed to be caused by the excess as atoms that are supplied in the form of as 2 h 2 molecule when tbas is used for the source of as . it should be noted that this molecule contains two as atoms . such excessive supply of as , in turn , causes a deviation in the stoichiometry of gaas and thus the formation of el2 . such an as 2 h 2 molecule is decomposed at elevated temperatures because of the chemical dissociation , and this explains why the el2 concentration level decreases with increasing temperature . next , fabrication of a semiconductor device that includes a semi - insulating compound semiconductor layer formed according to the present invention will be described with reference to fig6 showing an embodiment of the present invention . the growth of epitaxial layers is made in an apparatus similar to the mocvd apparatus of fig2 except that there is provided additional port for introducing silane ( sih 4 ) for the dopant . referring to fig6 a semi - insulating gaas substrate 21 grown by a conventional process is placed in the mocvd apparatus of fig2 as a substrate 2 , and a semi - insulating gaalas buffer layer 22 is grown on the substrate 21 at 630 ° c . with a thickness of about 4000 å while supplying tma , tmg , arsine and tbas similar to the case of fig5 . thereby , the buffer layer 22 grows with the composition of al 0 . 28 ga 0 . 72 as . the mixing ratio of tbas used for making the gaas buffer layer 22 non - conductive or semi - insulating , is determined by the purity of arsine used for growing the layer . in the ideal case of there is no shallow acceptor incorporated in the gaalas buffer layer 22 , there is of course no need of forming the el2 defects for pinning the fermi level . the semiconductor layers grown from such source gases have inherently high resistivity . in the actual case , however , impurities in the order of 10 15 cm - 3 are inevitable when currently available arsine gas is used . this concentration level of impurities changes lot by lot of the arsine gas . further , the level of impurities entering into the grown buffer layer 22 may change by the leak occurring in the apparatus used for growing the epitaxial layers . without compensation of the shallow acceptor level thus formed , a low and unstable resistivity of the buffer layer is inevitable . in order to achieve the desired high resistivity in the gaalas buffer layer 22 by compensating the shallow acceptor level formed by the impurities by the deep donor level of el2 , the present invention utilizes the concentration level of el2 set slightly larger than the concentration level of shallow acceptors in the buffer layer 22 . more specifically , the concentration of the el2 defects is set in the present embodiment at the level of about 3 . 3 × 10 15 cm - 3 that is about 1 . 1 times larger than the impurity concentration level of about 3 × 10 15 cm - 3 in the buffer layer 22 . in terms of the gas mixing ratio , the ratio of tbas to arsine ( tbas /( tbas + arsine )) is set 0 . 26 in the mole fraction . as already noted , this ratio may change when the source gas of other lot or purity is used . further , the mole ratio of the gas mixture for arsenic to the gas mixture for gallium and aluminum defined as ( tbas + arsine )/( tmg + tma ), is set to a value of 20 . it should be noted that excessive incorporation of el2 concentration level induces unwanted degradation of the operational characteristic of the device by causing trapping of electrons or forming anti - luminescent centers . the determination of optimum amount of el2 will be described later in detail . on the buffer layer 22 , a gaas active layer 23 is grown by supplying arsine and tmg simultaneously as usual , with the ratio of arsine to tmg set at 60 in the mole ratio . the growth is made at 630 ° c . until the layer 23 has a thickness of 4000 å . further , a gaalas layer 24 , used for supplying electrons to the active layer , is grown on the layer 23 by supplying a gas mixture of arsine , tmg and tma , with the ratio of arsine to tmg and tma , arsine /( tmg + tma ), set to a value of 60 in the mole fraction . further , during the growth of the layer 23 , si is introduced as the dopant with the concentration level of 1 . 4 × 10 18 cm - 3 , by admixing silane into the source gases . the layer 24 is grown to have a thickness of about 400 å . after the formation of the layered body comprising the substrate 21 , the buffer layer 22 , the active layer 23 and the doped layer 24 is completed , a focused ion beam implantation of oxygen is carried out to form an inactivated isolation region 27 in correspondence to the boundary between semiconductor devices ( device1 , device2 ) to be formed on the semiconductor layered body , for separating the semiconductor devices from each other electrically . further , a conductor layer is deposited on the surface of the layer 24 and subsequently patterned to form the semiconductor devices device1 and device2 thereon , wherein the device1 has source and drain electrodes 25a and 25b and a gate electrode 25c intervening therebetween , and the device2 has source and drain electrodes 26a and 26b and a gate electrode 26c intervening therebetween . the gate electrodes 25c and 26c may have a gate length of 1 μm and a gate width of 150 μm , for example . thus , the device1 and device2 form the structure of well known hemt . fig7 shows the effect of stabilization of the operational characteristic of the hemt thus fabricated according to the present invention , wherein the vertical axis shows the variation of the threshold voltage of the device1 in response to the gate voltage applied to the neighboring device2 . as demonstrated clearly in fig7 the variation of the threshold voltage does not occur unless the gate voltage exceeds about - 10 volts . fig8 on the other hand , shows a similar side gate effect for the hemt that has an identical structure of the device of fig6 except that the gaalas buffer layer 22 is grow without admixing tbas at the time of growth . in this case , an appreciable variation of the threshold voltage occurs in the device1 whenever a gate voltage is applied to the device2 . in other words , the hemt device that is produced by the present invention is substantially immune to the side gate effect . obviously , this effect is achieved by the high resistivity of the buffer layer 22 . next , the determination of optimum concentration level of el2 in the buffer layer 22 will be described . fig9 shows the static characteristic of the hemt of fig6 while fig1 shows the static characteristic of a hemt that has a structure identical with the hemt of fig6 but grown by using tbas alone for the source of as . as can be clearly seen from these drawings , there appears a hysteresis loop in the characteristic when the tbas alone is used for the source of as while no such hysteresis loop appears in the device of fig6 . obviously , such a hysteresis loop was formed by the excessive amount of el2 defects trapping the electrons in the buffer layer 22 . fig1 shows the optimum range of the mixing ratio of tbas in the source gas of as . in fig1 , the vertical axis represents the size of the loop l normalized against the maximum drain - source current i dss . on the other hand , the horizontal axis shows the content of tbas contained in the source gas mixture of as ( tbas /( arsine + tbas )) represented in mole fraction . the data illustrated is for the case where a drive voltage of 2 volts is applied across the drain and source of the hemt of fig6 . as can be seen clearly from fig1 , the hysteresis loop appears when the content of tbas has reached about 30 % of the as source gas mixture . beyond this value , the magnitude of the loop increases linearly . thus , in the present embodiment of fig6 the buffer layer 22 was grown by admixing tbas with the mole fraction of 0 . 26 against one mole of arsine and tbas gas mixture as already described . from fig5 it will be seen that the el2 concentration level corresponding to this tbas concentration level is about 3 . 3 × 10 15 cm - 3 . this level of el2 is slightly larger than the concentration level of shallow impurities shown in fig5 by the horizontal broken line , which is about 3 × 10 15 cm - 3 . for suppressing the occurrence of characteristic loop and to achieve the protection against the side gate voltage of as much as - 10 volts simultaneously , the difference in the concentration level between the el2 defects and the shallow acceptors should preferably satisfy the following relation : finally , fig1 shows the range of side gate voltage that is applicable without inducing the side gate effect in the neighboring hemt device in the case of the embodiment of fig6 . as can be seen , the side gate effect can be eliminated substantially entirely when the content of tbas is increased at the time of growth of the buffer layer 22 . of course , there is a limitation in increasing the tbas content because of the reason described already . the organic compound of arsenic that can be used for the present invention is not limited to tbas but other compounds such as trimethyl arsine , triethyl arsine also may be used . further , the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described heretofore , but various variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention . | US-64976891-A |
a method of treating arthritis and rheumatism in human patients comprises the topical application to an affected part of the patient &# 39 ; s body of at least one zwitterionic aminosulfonic acid of the kind commonly known as good buffers . the acid is preferably made up as a pharmaceutical composition such as a cream , and applied at a dosage of 50 μg - 50 mg of the acid per day for at least 5 days , but usually several weeks . | the inflammatory ailments in which said acids have been found to have a therapeutic effect include the conditions commonly grouped together under the terms arthritis and rheumatism . the effect does not appear to extend to such conditions when they result from trauma ; it is restricted to conditions which appear to arise spontaneouly , and which are presumably of systemic origin . a suitable period is a period in the range 5 days to about 6 months . a therapeutic amount , for administration over such a period , is believed to be in the range 50 μg to 50 mg per day , equivalent to half to one - fourth of that amount per application . the acid is incorporated in a pharmaceutical composition adapted for topical application , and the composition is applied to the skin on and around the affected joints once to three times a day . suitable pharmaceutical compositions for use in the method of the invention include creams , ointments , gels , lotions and impregnated pads , all prepared according to recognized principles of pharmaceutical formulation . a typical cream for use in the performance of the invention is made up in conventional fashion from the following ingredients ( percentages by weight ): this gives an oil - in - water emulsion of the vanishing cream type ( cream a ). ingredient ( d ) is commercially available under the trade designation tween 20 . the above cream may additionally comprise a source of copper ions such as 0 . 05 % cupric sulfate cuso 4 . 5h 2 o by weight ( cream b ), which appears to act synergistically in conjunction with the aminosulfonic acid . more generally , the ingredients for a typical cream may be selected from the following list , using percentage compositions , by weight of the finished creams , not exceeding the values given : the proportion of aminosulfonic acid is within the range 0 . 5 % to 4 % by weight of the composition . the invention will be illustrated now in its clinical aspect by means of the following specific non - limiting examples . a man in his thirties had suffered from swollen and painful finger joints for over five years and , at the time of this example , was unable to flex ( bend or extend ) certain fingers , before treatment started . he applied cream a ( see above ) once daily to the affected fingers for about three months . at the end of the treatment he had obtained full relief , full use of the fingers was restored , the swelling and pain were gone . a male patient , aged 32 , suffering from stiffness and tenderness in the arms and wrists , commenced twice daily topical application of cream b to the wrist areas only on sept . 25 , 1986 . the symptoms disappeared completely after two weeks . a female patient aged 50 +, suffering from swelling of the knuckles and joints of the hands , with discomfort and stiffness , diagnozed by her family physician as arthritis , commenced twice daily topical application of cream b to the affected regions on july 12 , 1986 . on examination three months later , it was found that the swelling of the knuckles had disappeared and normal movement of the hands had returned . there was no residual pain or discomfort . a female patient aged 55 , suffering from the condition commonly known as &# 34 ; frozen shoulder &# 34 ;, with muscular contractions causing pain and incapacity , commenced twice daily topical application of cream b to the affected regions on sept . 1 , 1986 . on examination one month later , she was found to have lost the stiffness and pain and regained normal function of the arm and shoulder . the condition of &# 34 ; frozen shoulder &# 34 ; commonly deteriorates until surgical intervention becomes necessary . after surgery , physiotherapy is required to help regain normal arm and shoulder function . a female patient aged 76 , suffering from pain and stiffness in both knee joints and unable to flex the joints normally , commenced twice daily topical application of cream b to the affeted parts on aug . 7 , 1986 . on examination of this patient two weeks later , her knees were found to have recovered their full movement . the patient was also found able to walk upstairs normally without pain or discomfort . a male patient aged 42 , suffering from severe pain in the left hip , and receiving occasional treatment with analgesics from his family physician , commenced twice daily topical application of cream a on aug . 12 , 1986 . two days later the patient reported that the pain had disappeared completely . treatment was discontinued after a total of seven days . the latest report from the patient was at the end of oct . 1986 ; he had had no further pain . thus , although more comprehensive testing is proposed , it has been demonstrated that inflammatory conditions including rheumatism and arthritis may be successfully treated by dermal absorption of the aminosulfonic acids mentioned above . the said acids are non - toxic and are not known to produce any undesirable side - effects . accordingly they have considerable practical advantages over medicaments heretofore used for the treatment of inflammatory conditions , such as phenylbutazone , indoprofen , indomethacin and related compounds , and may be safely administered to child patients . the pharmaceutical compositions used in the performance of the invention are bland , easily applied and very well tolerated . they have been tested for skin irritancy and dermatitis potential , and have been declared to meet the requirements of the united states federal register . | US-94331786-A |
a check valve for substantially preventing fluid flow in a first direction , but allowing a substantially unrestricted fluid flow in a second , opposite direction , the check valve including a tubular body and a flapper valve hingedly disposed within the tubular body so that the flapper valve , which is formed from a diagonally - cut section of tubing , may substantially block the tube by sealing its cut edges against a first inner wall portion of the tubular body and so that its cut edges may also lie substantially flush along a second inner wall portion of the tubular body allowing for substantially unimpeded fluid flow . | referring now to fig1 of the drawing , a siphon tube assembly 10 employing a check valve 12 for permitting the unrestricted flow of fluid in one direction while substantially preventing fluid flow in an opposite direction in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in a section view . the siphon tube assembly 10 further includes a siphon tube 14 and a strainer 16 . the siphon tube 14 has an inverted j - like shape and includes a long leg 15 for disposition in an aquarium tank 18 and a short leg 17 for disposition in a filter tank 24 . the aquarium tank 18 is a box - like enclosure including a bottom wall 20 and side walls 22 so as to be capable of holding water or the like . the filter tank 24 includes a wall having a top portion 26 in the shape of a hook that is hung over one of the walls 22 of the aquarium tank . typically , such a filter tank includes a perforated base plate on which rests two main layers of filter material ( not shown ), a pump 28 driven by a motor 30 draws water from below the bottom wall of the filter tank and pumps it through a return tube 32 into the aquarium tank 18 . the pump 28 lowers the water level in the filter tank 24 at a rate substantially equal to that at which the siphon tube assembly 10 is filling it with water from the aquarium tank 18 . in the siphon tube assembly 10 , an end of the check valve 12 is connected to the lower portion of the long leg 15 of the siphon tube 14 and the strainer 16 is connected to the opposed end of the check valve . the strainer 16 serves to prevent small tropical fish specimens and the like from being drawn through the check valve and the siphon tube to the filter tank . the siphon tube 14 and the strainer 16 are of the type which are commercially available in aquarium accessory stores . turning also to fig2 - 5 , the check valve 12 is illustrated in perspective , end and plan views . as shown , the check valve 12 comprises a body 36 , a flapper valve 38 , and a retaining member 40 . the body 36 is a tubular member including end walls 42 and 44 perpendicular to an axis 45 and an inner surface 46 having a diameter 48 that allows the body 36 to frictionally engage the siphon tube 14 . a slot 49 extends inwardly from the end 44 . the retaining member 40 has a generally tubular shape and includes an outer surface 50 having an outer diameter 52 that serves to frictionally engage the siphon strainer 16 ( shown in fig1 ), an inner surface 54 having a diameter 56 that is less than the diameter 48 . a collar 60 having a generally annular shape is formed around the outer surface 50 proximate the end 62 . a key 64 extends from the collar 60 and includes a protruding portion 66 extending beyond the end 62 and having a distal surface 68 inclined at an angle of about 30 ° relative to the axis 45 . the flapper valve 38 is comprised of a portion of a tube ( see fig4 ) and has an outer surface 70 , an inner surface 72 , ends 74 and 76 , and a periphery 78 between and including the ends 74 and 76 . the outer surface lies on a cylinder having a diameter 80 that is substantially equal to the diameter 48 . the inner surface 72 has a diameter 82 substantially equal to the diameter 56 . the flapper valve 38 is illustrated in an end view in fig4 and can be seen to appear as a tube section . with reference to fig5 the flapper valve resembles a tapered section of a tube in top plan view with its periphery 78 having a generally parabolic shape between ends 74 and 76 and a generally straight line shape at end 74 . a slot engaging member 84 extends outwardly from the central portion of the outer surface 70 at a location proximate the end 74 and a stand - off member 86 extends outwardly from the outer surface 70 proximate the end 76 . the stand - off member 86 has a length about equal to the thickness of the wall of the flapper valve 38 and serves to maintain the flapper valve 38 away from the body when the valve is in the open position in a manner which will be described in detail subsequently . turning now to fig2 and 6 , the flapper valve 38 in side view has a generally triangular shape with its periphery 78 and outer surface 70 forming the sides of the triangle . as shown the angle 79 between the inner body surface 46 ( or the axis 45 ) and the outer surface 70 is 30 °. in the preferred embodiment the body , the flapper valve and the retaining member are formed from a plastic material . the geometry of the flapper valve 38 can be more clearly defined with reference to the method of its generation such as by a milling machine as illustrated in fig3 . as shown , a tube 90 is canted at an angle 79 of about 30 ° relative to the tubular axis 92 of a tubularly - shaped cutter 94 of a milling machine having a cutting diameter equal to the diameter of the tube . as the cutter is moved downwardly through the tube , it creates the flapper valve , illustrated by the numeral 96 in fig3 after the flapper valve is trimmed from the remaining portion of the tube 90 . in order to assemble the check valve , the flapper valve 38 is inserted into the body 36 with the member 84 disposed in the slot 49 . then the retaining member 40 is inserted over the end 44 with the key 64 disposed proximate the member 84 into the slot 49 and with the collar 60 abutting the end 44 . a solvent is placed on the juxtaposed portions of the retaining member and the body so as to bond the elements into an integral structure . as assembled , the member 84 is hingedly movable within the slot 49 such that the flapper valve is movable between an open position ( see fig7 ) and a closed position ( see fig6 ). in the open position the outer surface 70 is generally adjacent the inner surface 46 and the inner surface 72 lies on an imaginary cylindrical surface generally corresponding to the inner diameter 56 of the retaining member 40 . it should be noted that the stand - off member 86 maintains the flapper valve 38 away from the inner surface 46 . hence , the surface 70 does not exactly contact the inner surface 46 along its entire length . because the thickness of the member 86 is equal to or less than the thickness of the wall of the flapper valve , the effective bore of the body still has a diameter equal to or greater than the bore of the retaining member . thus , in the open position , fluid entering the inner diameter 56 of the member 40 and flowing in a direction through the body 36 is capable of substantially unrestricted flow . however , when the flapper valve 38 is in the closed position its outer surface 70 extends a dimension such that the outer surface 70 in axial section ( or side ) view lies at the 30 ° angle relative to the axis 45 and the periphery 78 contacts and forms a seal with the inner surface 46 . accordingly , when the fluid flows through the body 36 toward the member 40 it strikes the end 76 which is slightly spaced from the inner surface 46 by stand - off 86 . this pressure and hence force against the outer surface 70 associated with the fluid striking the end 76 is sufficient to overcome the surface tension of the water and serves to move the flapper valve 38 to the closed position . this restricts fluid flow in the opposite direction . as an optional feature comprising an alternate embodiment of the present invention an elastomeric substance 77 may be formed on the periphery 78 of the flapper valve , as shown in fig6 and 7 . the elastomeric substance serves to further insure a fluid impervious seal between the flapper valve and the inner surface of body 36 . an elastomeric substance may also be formed on the inner surface of body 36 along the area normally contacted by the flapper valve to further insure a fluid impervious seal . the operation of the siphon tube assembly will now be described with reference again to fig1 . as shown , with the assembly 10 resting over the wall 22 the flapper valve is normally closed . however , by moving the siphon tube assembly 10 between its normal position and a raised position ( illustrated in phantom in fig1 ), the flapper valve 38 is moved to a closed position which causes the water in the siphon tube to remain in the tube such that the water level in the siphon tube is raised above the level of the water in the aquarium tank . rapid movement of the siphon tube assembly between such normal and raised positions about three or four times and immediate placement of the siphon tube assembly 10 over the wall 22 with its short leg 17 in the filter tank 24 flushes the air from the siphon tube by pumping water up and over the curved portion of the tube 14 . this starts the siphon action since with the air flushed from the short leg 17 and such short leg being disposed with its outlet below the water level of the aquarium tank a normal siphon action will result and the check valve will remain in the open position illustrated in fig7 . an alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in fig8 and 9 . the fundamental difference in the embodiment illustrated in fig8 and 9 and that illustrated in fig1 - 7 is that the body 100 is integral with the retaining member and the hinge is between a protruding portion 102 of the flapper valve 104 and a groove 106 formed in the inner surface 108 of the body . a pin 110 extends through an opening 112 in the portion 102 and serves to hingedly mount the flapper valve 104 to the body 100 . a spring 114 such as a hair spring is wound around the pin 110 to prevent its removal from the opening and also to bias the flapper valve 104 toward the closed position . accordingly , the spring 114 serves to load the valve 104 such that in a zero flow condition , the valve is in the closed position . this prevents fluid flow in the reverse direction . by selectively choosing the spring constant of the spring the valve can be capable of opening in very low pressure environments . in addition , an elastomeric material 116 is formed on the periphery 118 so that when the flapper valve is in the closed position a fluid - tight seal is formed . still another embodiment is illustrated in fig1 wherein an elastomeric material 130 is formed on the inner surface 132 of the central portion 134 of the body 136 at locations where the body is contacted by the outer periphery 138 of the flapper valve 140 . referring now to fig1 - 13 , axial sections are illustrated of still other embodiments of the present invention . each of the embodiments includes a different hinge structure for hingedly mounting the flapper valve to the body . in fig1 a member 150 depends from the wall 152 of the body 154 into the hollow interior portion and includes an opening 156 . a pair of spaced apart mounting portions 158 having openings in alignment with the opening 156 protrude from the inner surface of the flapper valve 160 . a pin 162 extends through the aligned openings and serves to hingedly mount the flapper valve to the body . a spring 164 serves to load the valve 160 such that in the zero flow condition the valve is in the closed position . in fig1 , a hinge 168 welded to the inner surface of the body 170 and connected to the flapper valve 172 serves to hingedly connect the valve to the body . with reference to fig1 , a fastener 180 extending through the flapper valve 182 and fastened to the body 184 as by welding , soldering , brazing , etc . serves to hingedly mount the flapper valve to the body . although not shown , it should be recognized that other sealing configurations are available and other hinged structures can be used to mount the flapper valve to the body . furthermore , check valves of the present invention can be used in aerospace , plumbing , hydraulic pneumatic , etc ., applications . in addition , the angle between the periphery and the outer surface of the flapper valve may vary between 10 ° and 80 °. in embodiments where the angle is small the valve is able to close quicker since the angle that the valve is required to swing through is relatively small . from the above , it will be seen that there has been provided a check valve and a siphon tube assembly including such a check valve which fulfills all of the objects and advantages set forth above . while the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to certain preferred embodiments , it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various alterations and modifications in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the invention . accordingly , it is intended that the following claims cover all such alterations and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention . | US-68883776-A |
active electrode material , such as fibrillized blend of activated carbon , polymer , and conductive carbon , is pretreated by immersion in a sealing coating . after the active electrode material is dried , the coating seals micropores of the activated carbon or another porous material , thus preventing exposure of water molecules or other impurities trapped in the micropores to outside agents . at the same time , the sealing coating does not seal most mesapores of the porous material , allowing exposure of the mesapores &# 39 ; surface area to the outside agents . the pretreated active electrode material is used for making electrodes or electrode assemblies of electrical energy storage devices . for example , the electrodes may be immersed in an electrolyte to construct electrochemical double layer capacitors . pretreatment with the sealing coating reduces the number of water molecules interacting with the electrolyte , enhancing the breakdown voltage of the capacitors . | reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings . same reference numerals may be used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps . the drawings are in simplified form and not to precise scale . for purposes of convenience and clarity only , directional terms , such as top , bottom , left , right , up , down , over , above , below , beneath , rear , and front may be used with respect to the accompanying drawings . these and similar directional terms should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner . the words “ embodiment ” and “ variant ” refer to particular apparatus or process , and not necessarily to the same apparatus or process . thus , “ one embodiment ” ( or a similar expression ) used in one place or context can refer to a particular apparatus or process ; the same or a similar expression in a different place can refer to a different apparatus or process . the expression “ alternative embodiment ” and similar phrases are used to indicate one of a number of different possible embodiments . the number of potential embodiments is not necessarily limited to two or any other quantity . the expression “ active electrode material ” and similar phrases signify material that enhances the function of the electrode beyond simply providing a contact or reactive area approximately the size of the visible external surface of the electrode . in a double layer capacitor electrode , for example , a film of active electrode material includes particles with high porosity , so that the surface area of the electrode exposed to an electrolyte ( in which the electrode is immersed ) is increased well beyond the area of the visible external surface ; in effect , the surface area exposed to the electrolyte becomes a function of the volume of the film made from the active electrode material . the meaning of the word “ film ” is similar to the meaning of the words “ layer ” and “ sheet ”; “ film ” does not necessarily imply a particular thickness of the material . the references to “ fibrillizable binder ” and “ fibril - forming binder ” within this document are intended to convey the meaning of polymers , co - polymers , and similar ultra - high molecular weight substances capable of fibrillation . such substances are often employed as binder for promoting cohesion in loosely - assembled particulate materials , i . e ., active filler materials that perform some useful function in a particular application . when used to describe processing of porous materials , the words “ pretreat ,” “ treat ” and their inflectional morphemes refer to subjecting the porous material to contact with a sealing coating to seal impurities within micropores of the material . for example , the material may be immersed in the coating , mixed with the coating , sprayed with the coating , exposed to condensation of coating vapors , or otherwise brought in contact with the coating . note that “ treat ” and “ pretreat ” have a different meaning when these words are used to describe processing of current collectors , as is explained in context . “ calender ” and “ nip ” as used in this document mean a device adapted for pressing and compressing . pressing may be , but is not necessarily , performed using rollers . when used as a verb , “ calender ” means processing in a press , which may , but need not , include rollers . other and further definitions and clarifications of definitions may be found throughout this document . referring more particularly to the drawings , fig1 illustrates selected steps of a process 100 for fabricating an electrode of a double layer capacitor . although the process steps are described serially , certain steps may also be performed in conjunction or in parallel , in a pipelined manner , or otherwise . there is no particular requirement that the steps be performed in the same order in which this description lists them , except where explicitly so indicated , otherwise made clear from the context , or inherently required . not all illustrated steps are strictly necessary , while other optional steps may be added to the process 100 . a high level overview of the process 100 is provided immediately below ; more detailed explanations of the steps of the process 100 and variants of the steps are provided following the overview . at step 105 , fibrillized particles of active electrode material are provided . at step 110 , the fibrillized particles are dried to evaporate water molecules that may be present within the active electrode material . at step 115 , the particles are mixed with or immersed in a sealing coating . the sealing coating is capable of sealing water molecules ( and possibly also other impurities ) in micropores of the active electrode material . the coating may also perform as an adhesive promoting cohesion of the particles of the active electrode material and adhesion of the particles to a surface , for example , current collector or separator surface . in some embodiments , two coatings are used : one for sealing the micropores , the other for acting as an adhesive . the sealing coating is such that it does not seal at least a majority ( as measured by surface area ) of mesapores of the active electrode material . at step 120 , a current collector is provided . at step 125 , the treated active electrode material is mixed with one or more processing material or liquid as known to those skilled in the art to form a slurry like paste , which is then coated onto the current collector . as will be discussed below , the current collector can be coated on two sides . at step 130 , the paste is dried , resulting in an electrode sheet that includes ( 1 ) the current collector , and ( 2 ) one or two active electrode material layers . at step 135 , the electrode sheet is calendered to densify the active electrode material layers . at step 140 , the calendered sheet is formed into one or more electrodes / electrode assemblies for use in double layer capacitors . we now turn to a more detailed description of the individual steps of the process 100 , beginning with the step 105 in which fibrillized active electrode material is provided . according to one technique for obtaining the fibrillized active electrode material , particles of active electrode material are dry - blended or otherwise mixed together with a fibrillizable binder ( e . g ., a polymer ) and a conduction promoter to form a dry powder material . dry - blending may be carried out , for example , for 1 to 10 minutes in a v - blender equipped with a high intensity mixing bar , until a uniform dry mixture is formed . those skilled in the art will identify , after perusal of this document , that blending time can vary based on batch size , materials , particle size , densities , as well as other properties , and yet remain within the scope of the present invention . the resulting dry powder material is dry fibrillized ( fibrillated ) using non - lubricated high - shear force techniques , such as jet milling , pin milling , hammer milling , or similar techniques known to a person skilled in the art . the shear forces that arise during the dry fibrillation process physically stretch the polymer particles , causing the polymer to form a network of fibers that bind the polymer to the conduction promoter and to the active electrode particles . the polymer acts as a matrix for holding the active electrode particles and the conduction promoter particles within the fibrillized material . in some embodiments , the active electrode material and the conduction promoter used in this process are , respectively , activated carbon and conductive carbon or graphite . suitable activated carbon materials are available from a variety of sources , including nuchar ® powders sold by westvaco corporation of stamford , conn . ; and yp - 17 activated carbon particles sold by kuraray chemical co ., ltd , shin - hankyu bldg . 9f blvd . c - 237 , 1 - 12 - 39 umeda , kiata - ku , osaka 530 - 8611 , japan . the polymers used in electrode embodiments in accordance with the present invention include , without limitation , polytetraflouroethylene ( ptfe or teflon ®), polypropylene , polyethylene , co - polymers , and various polymer blends . the specific proportions of the activated carbon , conductive carbon , and polymer used in selected exemplary embodiments are as follows : 85 – 90 percent by weight of activated carbon , 5 – 8 percent by weight of ptfe , and 2 – 10 percent by weight of conductive carbon . other exemplary embodiments contain 85 – 93 percent of activated carbon , 3 – 8 percent of ptfe , and 2 – 10 percent of conductive carbon . yet other exemplary embodiments contain activated carbon and ptfe , and do not use conductive carbon . it should be noted that the references to dry - blending , dry powders , other dry processes , and dry materials used in the manufacture of the active electrode material films do not exclude the use of electrolyte in the double layer capacitors . as has already been mentioned , the electrodes and the separator are typically immersed in and impregnated with an electrolytic solution in order to make a double layer capacitor . furthermore , even though additives , such as solvents , liquids , and the like , are not necessarily used in the manufacture of certain embodiments disclosed herein , a certain amount of impurity , for example , moisture , may be absorbed by the active electrode material from the surrounding environment . those skilled in the art will understand , after perusal of this document that the dry particles used with embodiments and processes disclosed herein may also , prior to being provided by particle manufacturers as dry particles , have themselves been preprocessed with additives and , thus , contain one or more pre - process residues . for these reasons , one or more of the embodiments and processes disclosed herein may utilize a drying step prior to a final electrolyte impregnation step so as to remove or reduce the aforementioned pre - process residues and impurities . it is identified that even after one or more drying steps , trace amounts of the aforementioned pre - process residues and impurities may be present in the active electrode material and the electrode film made from the material . the drying step 110 may involve air - drying the fibrillized particles . alternatively , the particles are force - dried at an elevated temperature . for example , the particles may be subjected to a temperature between about 100 and 150 degrees celsius . it has been identified that subjecting the active electrode material to the elevated temperature substantially reduces the presence of water molecules held by physical bonding forces ( vanderwaal &# 39 ; s forces ) in mesapores and macropores of the material . at the same time , water molecules held by the physical binding forces in micropores may remain trapped because of the small size of the micropores and capillary effects . note that for the purposes of this document , we roughly divide the pores according to their dimensions ( diameters or longest dimensions ) along the following lines : it has been identified that drying has a less pronounced effect on the water molecules held by chemical bonding forces within the active electrode material than on water molecules held by physical bonding forces . the probable reason for the diminished effect is that chemical bonding forces are generally stronger than vanderwaal &# 39 ; s forces . in some embodiments , the drying step 110 is performed prior to fibrillizing the active electrode particles . at the step 115 , the fibrillized particles are mixed with a sealing coating . the coating is “ sealing ” in the sense that it penetrates the micropores of the active electrode material and surrounds the water molecules ( and possibly other impurities ) within the micropores . the water molecules become sealed within the micropores . in some embodiments , more than 30 percent of water molecules in the micropores are sealed . in more specific embodiments , at least 50 percent of water molecules in the micropores are sealed . in yet more specific embodiments , at least 80 percent of water molecules in the micropores are sealed . when the active electrode material is subsequently immersed in an electrolyte , the sealed water molecules are not able to interact with the electrolyte , or the effect of such interaction is diminished . consequently , the number of high energy excited sites is reduced . the other desirable ( but not strictly necessary ) property of the coating is that it can act as an adhesive . one sealing coating adapted for use in methods described throughout this document is known by the trade name electrodag ® eb - 012 . it is available from acheson colloids company , 1600 washington avenue , port huron , mich . 48060 ; telephone number ( 810 ) 984 - 5581 ; www . achesonindustries . com . the electrodag ® eb - 012 is a water - based dispersion of graphite in a thermoplastic binder . other coatings adapted for use in the described methods can be selected from the adcote ® line of solvent - based adhesives , available from rohm and haas company , 100 independence mall west , philadelphia , pa . 19106 - 2399 ; telephone number 215 - 592 - 3000 ; facsimile number 215 - 592 - 3377 ; www . rohmhaas . com . in one embodiment , the active electrode material particles are first immersed in a sealing coating . the sealing coating is then drained through a filter , and the particles are dried , allowing the micropores to be sealed . after treatment with the sealing coating , the active electrode particles are mixed with an adhesive coating . the resulting material may then as be mixed with one or more processing material or liquid to obtain a slurry - like paste . the current collector provided in the step 120 may be made of a sheet of conductive material , such as metal sheet , foil , screen , or mesh . in one electrode embodiment , the current collector is a sheet of aluminum foil approximately 40 microns thick . in alternative embodiments , the thickness of the foil is between about 20 and about 100 microns . in other , more specific embodiments , the thickness of the aluminum foil is between about 30 and about 50 microns . in still other alternative embodiments , the current collector is relatively thick and is better described as a plate . conductive materials other than aluminum can also be used in the current collector . these materials include , for example , silver , copper , gold , platinum , palladium , steel , and tantalum , as well as various alloys of these metals . non - metal materials are also potential candidates for use in the current collector . in some embodiments , the current collector may be pretreated to enhance its adhesion properties . treatment of the current collector may include mechanical roughing , chemical pitting , and / or use of a surface activation treatment , such as corona discharge , active plasma , ultraviolet , laser , or high frequency treatment methods known to a person skilled in the art . in the step 125 , the paste made with the treated active electrode particles is applied uniformly to one or both sides of the current collector , so that one or two films of active electrode material are formed after the paste is dried in the following step . the advantage of applying the paste to both sides of the current collector is that the two films or layers of the active electrode material may be made at the same time , resulting in an electrode assembly that includes two electrodes sharing the current collector . at the step 130 , the paste applied to the current collector may be allowed to air - dry , or it may be force - dried at an elevated temperature . drying at elevated temperature has the advantage of shortening the drying time and , therefore , shortening the overall time for manufacturing electrodes . after the paste is dried , film ( or films ) of active electrode material is ( are ) formed on the current collector . at the step 135 , the current collector and the film ( s ) are processed in a calender or another high - pressure nip . as a result of this step , the active electrode material of the films is compacted and densified under the pressure applied by the nip . compaction in a nip generally does not significantly reduce porosity on a small scale level . because compacting reduces the film &# 39 ; s volume while keeping pore surface area relatively unchanged , the normalized effective surface area of the material is increased . the volumetric efficiency of the active electrode films is therefore also increased . moreover , compacting tends to decrease the equivalent series resistance of the capacitors built with electrodes made from the resulting current collector - film product . structural integrity of the films and the films &# 39 ; adhesion to the current collector may also be improved as a result of calendering . at the step 140 , the combination of the current collector and the one or two films is shaped for use as electrodes , for example , trimmed to predetermined dimensions . fig2 illustrates selected steps of a process 200 for fabricating an electrode assembly wherein the paste of pretreated electrode material particles is deposited on a separator of a double layer capacitor . although the process steps are described serially , certain steps may also be performed in conjunction or in parallel , in a pipelined manner , or otherwise . there is no particular requirement that the steps be performed in the same order in which this description lists them , except where explicitly so indicated , otherwise made clear from the context , or inherently required . not all illustrated steps are strictly necessary , while other optional steps can be added to the process 200 . a high level overview of the process 200 is provided immediately below ; more detailed explanations of the steps of the process 200 and variants of the steps are provided following the overview . at step 205 , fibrillized particles of active electrode material are provided . at step 210 , the fibrillized particles are dried to evaporate the water molecules within the active electrode material . at step 215 , the particles are mixed with a sealing coating , after which a slurry - like paste composition is formed . the sealing coating is capable of sealing micropores in the active electrode material . the coating may also perform as an adhesive promoting cohesion of the particles of the active electrode material and adhesion of the particles to a surface , for example , current collector or separator surface . in some embodiments , two coatings are used : one for sealing micropores , the other for acting as an adhesive . at step 220 , a porous separator sheet is provided . at step 225 , the paste obtained in the step 215 is applied to both sides of the porous separator . note that in alternative embodiments the paste is applied to only one side of the separator . at step 230 , the paste is dried , resulting in electrode films being formed on the separator . at step 235 , two current collectors are provided . at step 240 , the current collectors are attached to the surfaces of the active electrode material films that are opposite the surfaces of the films adjacent to the separator sheet . at step 245 , the combination of the separator sheet , active electrode material films , and current collectors is calendered . the resulting calendered product is formed into a shape appropriate for use in a double layer capacitor , at step 250 . the steps 205 through 215 of the process 200 are similar or identical to the steps 105 through 115 of the process 100 of fig1 . the separator provided in the step 220 is made from a porous material that allows an electrolyte to pass through its pores or holes . at the same time , the separator material is capable of preventing direct electrical contact between the films of active electrode material disposed on each side of the separator . in various embodiments , the separator materials used include glass , polyethylene , polyphenylene sulfide , rayon , polypropylene , polyetheretherketone , other polymers , as well as compositions , laminates , and overlays of these materials . furthermore , sheets formed using woven and unwoven fibers of these and other substances can also be used in making the separators . separators of various embodiments further include cellulose , paper , and cotton linter . in one particular embodiment , the separator is made from tf3045 paper available from nippon kodoshi corporation of japan . in the step 225 , the paste made with the treated active electrode particles is applied uniformly to the sides of the separator , so that films of active electrode material are formed on the separator after the paste is dried in the following step . at the step 230 , the paste applied to the separator may be allowed to air - dry , or it may be force - dried at an elevated temperature . after the paste is dried , the films of active electrode material are formed on the separator . each of the current collectors provided in the step 235 may be similar or identical to the current collector provided in the step 120 of the process 100 . for example , each current collector may be made of thin aluminum foil . turning next to the step 240 , the current collectors may be attached to the active electrode films using an adhesive . in certain alternative process embodiments , the current collectors are deposited on the films using high - energy metallization techniques , such as flame spraying , arc spraying , plasma spraying , and high velocity oxygen fuel ( hvof ) thermal spraying . in other embodiments , the current collectors are applied onto the films by vapor deposition , for example , low - pressure or sub - atmospheric chemical vapor deposition ( lpcvd or sacvd ). in still other embodiments , the current collectors are simply brought into contact with the films before calendering performed in the step 245 , which laminates the current collectors to their respective films under high pressure , in addition to densifying the active electrode films . the step 245 is similar to the step 135 of the process 100 . at the step 250 , the combination of the porous separator , films , and current collectors is shaped for use as electrodes , for example , trimmed to predetermined dimensions . films of active electrode material pretreated with a sealing coating may be made before they are attached to the current collectors ( as in the process 100 ) or to the porous separator ( as in the process 200 ). fig3 illustrates selected steps of one such process 300 . although the process steps are described serially , certain steps may also be performed in conjunction or in parallel , in a pipelined manner , or otherwise . there is no particular requirement that the steps be performed in the same order in which this description lists them , except where explicitly so indicated , otherwise made clear from the context , or inherently required . not all illustrated steps are strictly necessary , while other optional steps can be added to the process 300 . at step 305 , two films of active electrode material are provided . in some process embodiments , polymer powder , active electrode material powder ( e . g ., activated carbon ), conduction promoter powder ( e . g ., conductive carbon or graphite ), and possibly other powder materials are blended , for example , using a dry - blending process . the proportions of the materials , the specific materials used , and the blending operation may be similar or identical to those described in relation to the process 100 of fig1 . the dry powder material ( that results from mixing and blending ) is fibrillized ( fibrillated ) using non - lubricated high - shear techniques , such as jet milling , pin milling , hammer milling , or similar techniques known to a person skilled in the art . the fibrillized material is then fed into one or more high - pressure nips , such as roll mills , calenders , belt - presses , or flat plate presses , to press the material into films . after the active electrode films are made , they are immersed in a sealing coating , for example , the electrodag ® eb - 012 or adcote ® coating , at step 310 . at step 315 , the films treated with the sealing coating are dried , for example , air - dried or force dried at an elevated temperature . at step 320 , a current collector is provided . this step is similar to the step 120 of the process 100 . the active electrode films are attached to the current collector in step 325 . attachment may be performed using a number of different techniques , including these : 1 . using an adhesive layer between each film and the current collector , optionally followed by calendering . 2 . using high - energy metallization techniques , such as flame spraying , arc spraying , plasma spraying , and hvof thermal spraying . at step 330 , the current collector and the films are processed in a calender or another high - pressure nip . at step 335 , the combination of the current collector and the one or two films is shaped for use as electrodes , for example , trimmed to predetermined dimensions . treatment of porous material with a sealing coating may be performed before the material is fibrillized . fig4 illustrates selected steps of a process 400 for making film of fibrillized active electrode material wherein the porous material is treated with a sealant before the material is fibrillized . although the process steps are described serially , certain steps may also be performed in conjunction or in parallel , in a pipelined manner , or otherwise . there is no particular requirement that the steps be performed in the same order in which this description lists them , except where explicitly so indicated , otherwise made clear from the context , or inherently required . not all illustrated steps are strictly necessary , while other optional steps can be added to the process 400 . at step 405 , activated carbon is provided . for example , carbon particles may be activated using thermal or chemical activation techniques that increase carbon porosity . at step 410 , the activated carbon particles are washed to remove solid impurities . at step 415 , the carbon particles are force - dried at elevated temperature , or simply allowed to dry at room temperature . the step 415 may be similar to the step 110 of the process 100 described above . at step 420 , the carbon particles are treated with a sealing coating . this step is similar to the step 115 of the process 100 . as has been described in relation to the process 100 , the coating is “ sealing ” in the sense that it penetrates the micropores of the active electrode material and surrounds the water molecules ( and possibly other impurities ) within the micropores . the water molecules become sealed within the micropores . at step 425 , the sealing coating with which the carbon particles have been treated is dried , for example , force - dried or allowed to dry at ambient temperature . at step 430 , the activated carbon particles are mixed with fibrillizable binder and , optionally , with particles of a conduction promoting material , such as conductive carbon . the mixture is then blended . after blending , the resulting dry powder material is fibrillized using , for example , non - lubricated high - shear force techniques , such as jet milling , pin milling , hammer milling , or similar techniques known to a person skilled in the art . this is done at step 435 . mixing , blending , fibrillation , and specific materials and proportions used in the steps 430 and 435 may be similar or identical to those that have been described in relation to the step 105 of the process 100 . at step 440 , film or films are formed from the fibrillized material . in some exemplary embodiments , the fibrillized material is fed into one or more high - pressure nips , such as roll mills , calenders , belt - presses , or flat plate presses , to press the material into films . in other exemplary embodiments , particles of the fibrillized material are mixed with an adhesive to form a slurry - like paste composition , which may be deposited on a current collector or porous separator , and allowed to dry , as has been described in relation to step 125 / 130 and 225 / 230 of the processes 100 and 200 , respectively . in yet other embodiments , treatment with sealant as described herein is performed on particles that are used form extruded type electrode films , as are known to those skilled in the extruded electrode arts . the electrodes , electrode assemblies , and electrode films obtained through the processes 100 , 200 , 300 , and 400 may be used in double layer capacitors and other electrical energy storage devices . fig5 illustrates , in a high level manner , cross - section of an electrode assembly 500 of a double layer capacitor . in the figure , the components of the assembly 500 are arranged in the following order : ( 1 ) first current collector layer 505 , ( 2 ) first active electrode film 510 , ( 3 ) porous separator 520 , ( 4 ) second active electrode film 530 , and ( 5 ) second current collector 535 . a double layer capacitor using the electrode assembly 500 further includes an electrolyte and a container , for example , a sealed can , that holds the electrolyte . the assembly 500 is disposed within the container ( can ) and immersed in the electrolyte . to understand better various steps of the processes 100 , 200 , 300 , and 400 , a person skilled in the art may also benefit from reading u . s . patent application ser . no . 10 / 817 , 701 , filed 2 april , 2004 and one or more provisional referenced therein . these commonly assigned patent documents are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein , including all figures , tables , claims , and additional subject matter incorporated by reference therein . additional details for manufacturing double layer capacitors are described in various sources , including farahmandi et al ., u . s . pat . no . 6 , 585 , 152 , entitled method of making a multi - electrode double layer capacitor having single electrolyte seal and aluminum - impregnated carbon cloth electrodes ; and in bendale et al ., u . s . pat . no . 6 , 631 , 074 , entitled electrochemical double layer capacitor having carbon powder electrodes . these commonly - assigned patents are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein , including all figures , tables , claims , and additional subject matter incorporated by reference therein . the inventive active electrode films , electrodes , electrode assemblies , energy storage devices , and processes used in the course of their fabrication are described above in considerable detail for illustration purposes . neither the specific embodiments of the invention as a whole , nor those of its features , limit the general principles underlying the invention . in particular , the invention is not limited to the specific materials and proportions of constituent materials used for fabricating the electrodes . the invention is also not limited to electrodes used in double layer capacitors , but extends to other electrode applications . the specific features described herein may be used in some embodiments , but not in others , without departure from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth . many additional modifications are intended in the foregoing disclosure , and it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that , in some instances , some features of the invention will be employed in the absence of a corresponding use of other features . the illustrative examples therefore do not define the metes and bounds of the invention and the legal protection afforded the invention , which function is served by the claims and their equivalents . | US-8740905-A |
a transmission utilizing oscillating torque to vary the mechanical power transmitted to a load was previously patented by this inventor . the transmission has a rotatable input member and a rotatable mass . the transmission also has a member with an eccentric offset , with the rotatable mass rotatably coupled to the offset and being eccentric with respect to the offset . the present invention provides several improvements to the previous patents including belt or chain for the rotating masses to improve load carrying capacity and improvements to the control system using inertia control . fig . 1 shows the fully assembled transmission . | in fig2 , a schematic diagram of a vehicle power system 11 is given . the system has a prime mover 13 , a transmission 15 , and an output load 21 . the prime mover 13 is typically an internal combustion engine that can be powered by gasoline , diesel , natural gas , etc . alternatively , the prime mover 13 can be electric motors or some other source of power . the transmission 15 is that of the previous invention , shown in accordance with a preferred embodiment . the transmission 15 has an input 17 that is connected to the prime mover 13 and an output 19 that is connected to the load 21 . the load 21 is shown as being a drive shaft and vehicle wheels . the transmission 15 is of a continuously variable type . many internal combustion engines ( and electric motors ) operate more efficiently within a narrow range of engine speeds . a continuously variable transmission can be provided with a narrow range of input speeds and produce a wide range of output speeds for the load . unlike prior art gear transmissions , where each output speed has a specific gear , a continuously variable transmission provides a continuous output of speeds . this allows the engine to operate within a narrow , and thus more efficient , range of speeds . referring to fig3 , the transmission 15 has a casing or enclosure 23 . the casing 23 has a cavity 25 for receiving the movable components of fig5 . the casing 23 also has a flange 27 , or other mounting structure , to secure the casing 23 to a chassis , frame , etc . of the vehicle [ see fig4 ]. the transmission 15 has an input shaft 29 and an output shaft 31 . the input shaft 29 is coupled to rotatable masses 33 by the drive yoke 53 and drive links 59 . the input shaft 29 , the drive yoke 53 and dive links 29 causes the rotatable masses 33 to rotate about an eccentric crankshaft 35 in a circular path . the motion of the rotating masses 33 produces a centrifugal force . the centrifugal force is transferred to the crankshaft 35 which produces an oscillating torque and results in the bidirectional motion of the crankshaft 35 . the bidirectional rotation of the crankshaft 35 is converted into unidirectional rotation by the output clutches 37 , 39 , which are one - way clutches . the output clutch 39 and the arm assembly shaft 43 drive the output shaft 31 in the output direction . the output clutch 37 is fixed to the casing 23 and prevents the arm assembly shaft 43 from rotating in the other direction . referring to fig7 a through 7d , the rotatable masses 33 are shown . sprockets on the arm assembly 45 create the needed offset . timing belts or timing chains 63 , connect the arm assembly sprockets 45 with the rotatable masses 33 and serve to hold the outward centrifugal force created from the rotational motion of the rotatable masses in a circular path around the arm assembly sprockets 45 . the input 29 and output 31 ends are concentric along a longitudinal rotational axis of the crankshaft 45 . the offset 47 is created by mounting the sprockets 45 off - center , as shown in fig1 . the off - center distance 47 is the same on the arm assembly sprocket 45 as on the rotatable mass sprocket 33 . in the previous invention , the rotatable masses 33 are coupled to the crankshaft 45 using bearings . in this improvement , the preferred embodiment has the rotatable masses 33 attached to the arm assembly 45 using timing belts or timing chains 63 . the arm assembly sprockets 45 are attached directly to the arm assembly shaft 43 . the rotatable masses 33 are attached to the drive link 59 by way of a bearing 41 . the timing belts or timing chains 63 carry the centrifugal load . therefore the bearing 41 only carries the much smaller pulling load from the drive link 59 . since bearings subjected to a centrifugal load create a high rolling friction , this improvement allows a higher load - carrying capacity and reduced size of transmission for a given load capacity . a further enhancement is the use of elliptical sprockets for both the arm assembly and mass sprockets . the elliptical sprockets reduce the initial mass moment of inertia of the system , increasing the performance or power capacity of the system . fig2 a shows a classic use of timing belts or timing chains and sprockets where the sprockets are mounted to a shaft through the sprocket centers 76 and torque is transferred from one sprocket 71 to the other sprocket 72 . sprocket 71 rotates due to torque 74 and causes reaction force 75 to act on the belt putting one side of the timing belt 81 in tension . the reaction force 75 causes the rotation of sprocket 72 . fig2 b shows the use of sprockets and timing belts or timing chains in the present invention where the centrifugal force 78 of the rotatable mass sprocket 33 is transferred to arm assembly sprocket 45 by timing belt 63 . rotatable mass sprocket 33 is pulled in direction shown causing a centrifugal force 78 acting in the direction shown , placing tension on both sides of timing belt 63 by reaction forces 77 as shown . as shown in fig8 a , 8 b , 9 a and 9 b , a drive link 59 and drivebar 65 connects the input shaft 29 to the masses 33 by way of a drive yoke 53 and extension 57 so that when the input shaft 29 rotates , the masses 33 rotate about the offset sprockets 35 . an alternate method of input drive is shown in fig1 , 16 , and 17 . the input drive assembly 53 b is a drive box that replaces the drive yolk 53 , [ see fig1 ]. this configuration of input drive is a more compact design . the shape of the drive box 53 b is shown as a simple rectangle for ease of presentation . the shape or geometry of the drive box could be a cylinder such as in a torque tube , or some other shape . components of the drive box typically include , a plate on each end and a coupling component between the plates . referring to fig1 and 17 , the drive bars 65 b are mounted in a slightly elongated slot 55 . alignment bars 67 can be spring loaded to create tension on the drive bars and thus tension on the timing belts or chains 63 when the transmission is not rotating . this creates a more compact design and allows the springs to preload the timing belts or chains 63 so that the teeth on the sprockets 33 , 45 maintain position on the timing belts when the transmission is not spinning . this spring loading also allows for less precise manufacturing tolerances and a simplified design . fig1 a through 12f show an end view of rotatable masses 33 depicting the rotation during six different angles of a single rotational cycle . this view shows that the orientation of the sprockets is constant throughout the rotational cycle . both input drive systems allow the input rotation to apply a load to the rotatable masses 33 normal to the centrifugal force . the drive linkage 59 transfers torque from the power source to the rotatable masses 33 without applying a load or force in the direction of the centrifugal loads . by applying the drive force in a direction normal to the rotational direction , the velocity to which the rotatable masses 33 rotate about the shaft 29 is the same as the input velocity and remains constant throughout the rotational cycle . this configuration eliminates angular acceleration loads in the previous linkage configuration which result in feedback torque . this enables the offset of the sprockets 35 on the shaft 43 to be increased , resulting in a higher load capacity in a smaller package . the yoke 53 can either push or pull the masses 33 . in the example described above with respect to fig1 a through 12f , the yoke 53 pulls the masses 33 , such that the links 59 are in tension . the links 59 can be rigid members or flexible members . alternatively , the yoke 53 could push the masses 33 with the links 59 being in compression . large variation in speed output can be accomplished with the transmission . the previous invention discloses a method of speed control by changing the phase angle between two sets of masses . this method of control is still a valid method for the timing belt embodiment . the present invention provides alternate methods of speed control by changing the mass moment of inertia of the arm assembly 35 . altering the mass - moment of inertia of the arm assembly 35 changes the duration of the drive and free - wheel portions of the cyclic process . changing the mass moment of inertia of the arm assembly 35 changes the time durations for the various events in the cyclic process . this variation in the duration of the drive portion of the cyclic process controls the output braking torque ( average torque ) of the transmission . fig1 shows a cutaway of an assembled transmission with the alternate input assembly 53 and a black box inertia control device 69 . the inertia control device 69 as described above adds or subtracts inertia from the arm assembly 35 , causing a variation in the output of the transmission by altering the duration of the drive portion of the cyclic process . various methods of inertia control are possible including using flywheels that are able to freewheel or be fixed to the shaft 43 . there is a wide variety of commercial clutches available for this function ; hence , they are not shown . other methods of controlling the inertia of the arm assembly 35 include magnetorhealogical fluid , electrorhealogical fluid , and mechanical devices such as used on engine governors and the like . fig1 shows an inertia control system that uses multiple fixed masses 69 which can be connected and disconnected from the arm assembly 35 . each of the masses 69 creates a different inertia . with n number masses 69 , 2 ″ represents the number of unique speed outputs that can be obtained . the transmission of the present invention can be made in a very compact size . the transmission can be scaled to suit the particular application . more torque would require larger masses 33 . the transmission could be used on a variety of vehicles from high performance racing cars to automobiles , trucks , and children &# 39 ; s play toys . in addition , the transmission can also be used in non - vehicular applications . the foregoing disclosure and representations made in the drawings are merely illustrative of the principles of this invention and are not to be interpreted in a limiting sense . | US-43009009-A |
a system and method for category discovery is disclosed . the method discloses : receiving an information collection including a set of strings ; identifying positively predictive pairs of strings ; identifying negatively predictive pairs of strings ; joining positively predictive pairs of strings into a category ; and splitting negatively predictive pairs of strings into different categories . the system discloses various elements , means and instructions for performing the method . | the present invention is a system and method which categorizes a set of strings within an information collection . a “ string set ” is herein defined as one or more words , terms , numbers , symbols , or combinations thereof found within the information collection . the information collection may include any set of information , including help desk call logs , survey data , genomic data , published papers , documents , books , web pages , chat logs , blogs , network connection links , and so on . the present invention identifies and organizes the strings and the information collection into meaningful categories , and category hierarchies . meaningful category labels are generated , which describe what the strings and information collection items have in common . the present invention discovers common themes and new categories within the information collection , thereby automating information collection indexing . while the invention is described below with reference to “ terms ” in a “ document collection ”, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention more generally applies to any “ string set ” in an “ information collection ”. fig1 is a dataflow diagram of one embodiment of a system 100 for category discovery . to begin , the system 100 identifies a document collection within a document collection database 102 . which document collection the system 100 identifies can be pre - programmed by a system administrator , or selected by a user . alternatively , the document collection can be transmitted directly to the system 100 over a network . in this latter case the system 100 can form the basis of a web service provided to customers on - line . each document within the collection preferably includes a set of fields which the system 100 can categorize . these fields may include : a title field ; a name field ; a description field ; a dialog field ; and so on . a field selector 104 selects a field within the document collection to be categorized . the field selector 104 can be a user , such as a librarian , analyst , or other person , or the field selector 104 can be a device which computes which field to categorize based on other factors , such as the type ( e . g . employee survey , customer call logs , etc .) of documents in the document collection database 102 . a category discovery module 106 calculates a frequency of occurrence for each term within each of the documents . the discovery module 106 generates a list ( l ) of the most frequently occurring terms within the document collection . the list is sorted by each term &# 39 ; s frequency of occurrence . if , however , a term &# 39 ; s frequency of occurrence is within a predetermined number from the total number of documents in the document collection database 102 , then that term may be filtered out of the list as being too common . preferably the size ( n ) of the list is about 50 terms , since empirical testing data indicates that a substantially smaller list can exclude many important terms , while a substantially larger list often includes many spurious or weak terms , which increase the system &# 39 ; s 100 computational complexity without proportionately improving upon the system &# 39 ; s 100 categorization results . those skilled in the art however will recognize that the list can be of any size and that different size lists may be preferred based on different applications of the present invention , differing document collections , and differing fields to be categorized . the discovery module 106 builds a bit vector matrix 108 for the list . for each term in the list , a term bit vector , of length equal to the number of documents in the document collection , is generated by the discovery module 106 . a “ 1 ” is assigned to each position in the term bit vector corresponding to those documents that contain the term , and a “ 0 ” is assigned to each position in the term bit vector corresponding to those documents that do not contain the term . those skilled in the art will recognize that labels other than “ 1 ” or “ 0 ” may be used as well in the bit vectors . fig2 is one embodiment 200 of the bit vector matrix 108 within the system 100 . each column in the matrix 108 is a term bit vector ( e . g . term “ 1 ” 202 , term “ 2 ” 204 , term “ v ” 206 , term “ w ” 208 , through term “ n ” 210 ). each row in the matrix 108 corresponds to a document ( e . g . doc 1 through doc 9 ) in the document collection . in this embodiment 200 , term 1 202 is not in doc 1 , so a “ 0 ” is entered at entry 212 in the matrix 108 . whereas , term 1 202 is in doc 2 , so a “ 1 ” is entered at entry 214 in the matrix 108 . in an alternate embodiment , the discovery module 106 can also generate a reverse index for each term by listing those documents that contain the term . next , for each pair of term bit vectors ( e . g . term v 206 and term w 208 ) the discovery module 106 defines “ all_positives ” as a number of rows in which the first term bit vector in the pair ( e . g . term v 206 ) has a first label , preferably “ 1 ”, ( i . e . all_positives = count ( term bit vector v ), wherein “ count ( )” is a subroutine that returns a number of “ 1 &# 39 ; s ” in the term bit vector v 206 ). for each pair of term bit vectors ( e . g . term v 206 and term w 208 ) the discovery module 106 defines “ all_negatives ” as a number of rows in which the first term bit vector in the pair ( e . g . term v 206 ) has a second label , preferably “ 0 ”, ( i . e . all_negatives =( number of documents in the collection )− all_positives ). for each pair of term bit vectors ( e . g . term v 206 and term w 208 ) the discovery module 106 defines “ true_positives ” as a number of rows in the matrix 108 in which both term v and term w have a 1 ( e . g . pair 216 in the matrix 108 ). mathematically , this calculation is : true_positives = count ( bit vector w & lt ; bitwise - and & gt ; bit vector v ). for each pair of term bit vectors ( e . g . term v 206 and term w 208 ) the discovery module 106 defines “ false_negatives ” as a number of rows in the matrix 108 in which term v 206 has a 1 but term w 208 has a 0 ( e . g . pair 218 in the matrix 108 ). mathematically , this calculation is : false_negatives = all_positives − true_positives . for each pair of term bit vectors ( e . g . term v 206 and term w 208 ) the discovery module 106 defines “ false_positives ” as a number of rows in the matrix 108 in which term v 206 has a 0 but term w 208 has a 1 ( e . g . pair 220 in the matrix 108 ). mathematically , this calculation is : false_positives = count ( term bit vector w )− true_positives . the discovery module 106 then builds a term prediction matrix 110 as discussed below . note that in a more general case of the present invention , where “ terms ” are replaced by “ strings ”, the term prediction matrix 110 would more properly be labeled a string prediction matrix . the term prediction matrix 110 contains a set of prediction values which indicate how well each of the terms in the list predict each other ( e . g . how well the terms are “ correlated ” with respect to each other , or how well the terms positively predict or negatively predict each other ). negatively predictive terms are herein defined as terms that do not tend to occur in the same document , whereas positively predictive terms are herein defined as terms that tend to occur in the same document . those skilled in the state of the art are aware of various measures that reflect such co - occurence and predictive power . while the term prediction matrix 110 is preferably a bi - normal separation ( bns ) matrix of size n × n , which yields a negative prediction value ( i . e . number ) if a pair of terms are negatively correlated , and a positive prediction value ( i . e . number ) if a pair of terms are positively correlated , those skilled in the art will know that other term prediction matrices may be used as well . such other matrices may include a correlation metric like lift that uses numbers from 0 . 0 to 1 . 0 to be negative correlation , and & gt ; 1 . 0 for positive correlation . these other prediction matrices preferably enable methods for automated differentiation between terms that are negatively correlated and terms that are positively correlated . note also that within this specification the phrases “ positive pair ”, “ predictive pair ”, and “ positively correlated pair ” are preferably functionally equivalent . similarly , the phrases “ negative pair ”, “ negatively predictive pair ”, and “ negatively correlated pair ” are preferably functionally equivalent as well . a raw bns prediction value calculated for each entry in the matrix 110 is : f ( true_positives / all_positives )− f ( false_positives / all_negatives ), ( wherein f ( x ) is either an inverse cumulative distribution function or a discretized inverse cumulative distribution function of the normal curve ) the function f ( x ) can take on prediction values from negative infinity ( for a cumulative value of 0 ) to positive infinity ( for a cumulative value of 1 ) on a scale where each unit is a standard deviation from the mean . in the preferred embodiment , a look - up table is used to reduce the time required to compute f ( x ) for each prediction value entry in the matrix 110 . in the table f ( x ) is limited to a range of about − 3 to + 3 because limiting the range helps reduce computational complexity and prevents overflow values such as infinity . the raw bns prediction values ranging from − 3 to + 3 are preferably translated into scaled bns prediction values ranging from − 99 to + 99 , by multiplying each raw bns prediction value by a constant scaling factor of approximately 99 / 6 . these scaled bns prediction values are then stored at each respective entry in the matrix 110 . the discovery module 106 clamps a prediction value entry within the prediction matrix 110 to zero if an absolute value of the prediction matrix 110 prediction value is below a predetermined threshold ( i . e . clamp value ). this simplifies later processing steps by eliminating sufficiently “ independent terms ” from later calculations . in an alternate embodiment , the discovery module 106 builds only half of the term prediction matrix 110 . thus , for example , for each pair of terms v and w there must be prediction value in term prediction matrix 110 for either row v and column w or for row w and column v . this simplification may be good enough for some applications due to the commonly symmetric nature of term predictiveness . thus , term correlations can be built unidirectionally , either below the matrix diagonal or above the diagonal . fig3 a is one embodiment 300 of the term prediction matrix 110 within the system 100 . in this embodiment 300 the list of terms ranges from “ a ” ( corresponding to “ product a ”) to “ p ” ( corresponding to “ a ”) and thus n = 16 . this term prediction matrix 300 also includes an exemplary set of scaled bns prediction values . note that the “ 99 ” entry along the matrix 300 diagonal just reflects the fact that any term in the matrix 300 is completely related to itself . the negative “−” numbers indicate a negative prediction value and the other unsigned numbers represent a positive prediction value . the dots ( i . e . “.”) reduce clutter in the term prediction matrix 300 and represent those prediction values which due to their minimal absolute prediction have been clamped to zero . for example , term pairs “ screen ” and “ product a ” ( see matrix entries 302 and 304 ) are not well correlated and thus have been “ clamped ”. fig3 b is one example of a set of negative prediction values within the term prediction matrix . in the term prediction matrix 300 , the bns entries − 21 , − 16 , and − 23 respectively show that “ sync ” 308 is negatively correlated with respect to “ battery ” 310 , “ charge ” 312 , and “ screen ” 314 and thus does not tend to occur in the same document with these terms in this document collection . such negative predictions point toward competing categories . fig3 c is one example of a set of positive prediction values within the term prediction matrix . in the term prediction matrix 300 , the bns entries 24 , 30 , 14 , and 22 respectively show that “ charge ” 316 is positively correlated with respect to “ not ” 318 , “ battery ” 320 , “ will ” 322 , and “ a ” 324 and thus tends to occur in the same document with these terms in this document collection . such positive predictions point toward multi - term categories . next a set of term prediction relationships ( i . e . pairs of terms with a positive prediction , negative prediction , or with an absolute prediction that falls below a predetermined “ clamped ” value ) are extracted from the n × n term prediction matrix . thus the discovery module 106 analyzes diametrically opposed , off - diagonal pairs of prediction values within the matrix 110 , starting with the prediction values in a 2 × 2 sub - matrix in an upper left corner ( i . e . rows 1 and 2 , columns 1 and 2 ). the diagonal which the “ off - diagonal ” pairs refer to is that diagonal where the row - letter equals the column - letter in the matrix 110 . diametrically opposed refers to the relative position of the pair of matrix entry positions ( u , v ) and ( v , u ) corresponding to pair of terms u and v . the magnitude of the prediction values in the matrix 110 signifies the strength of the positive or negative prediction . note that while most of the discussion which follows discusses the invention only as applied to “ terms ” those skilled in the art recognize that the invention equally applies to multi - term phrases or string segments . if the two matrix prediction values are both positive , then the discovery module 106 attributes a positive prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to a positive pair list 112 . if the two matrix prediction values are both negative , then the discovery module 106 attributes a negative prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to a negative pair list 114 . if the matrix prediction values are both below the threshold value , then the discovery module 106 clamps the pair of terms &# 39 ; prediction to zero , and the pair of terms are not added to either the positive pair list 112 or the negative pair list 114 . if one of the matrix prediction values is positive and the other prediction value is clamped , then the discovery module 106 attributes a positive prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to the positive pair list 112 . if one of the matrix entry values is negative and the other is clamped , then the discovery module 106 attributes a negative prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to the negative pair list 112 . the discovery module 106 expands the 2 × 2 sub - matrix by one row and one column to form a 3 × 3 sub - matrix and again analyzes the diametrically - opposed , off - diagonal pairs of matrix prediction values in row 3 and column 3 within the matrix 110 and the positive and negative pair identification steps are repeated for the 3 × 3 sub - matrix entries . the discovery module 106 iteratively expands the sub - matrix by one row and one column until all positive and negative pairs have been discovered within the n × n term prediction matrix 110 . the two lists are preferably built in the manner just described so that the pairs of terms on both the positive pair list 112 and the negative pair list 114 are in an order of most frequent to least frequent in terms of their occurrence in the document collection . this is a result of a property of bns matrices whereby terms are listed , in row order , from most frequent to least frequent . those skilled in the art however will recognize however that the matrix 110 may be analyzed and pair lists built in a variety of other ways as well . note if only half of the term prediction matrix 110 was built , in the alternate embodiment discussed above , the positive and negative pairs would be similarly extracted from only half of the matrix using the techniques just discussed . fig3 d is one example of a set of positive and negative pairs which have been identified by the discovery module 106 within exemplary matrix 300 . some of the positive pairs are : not — battery 326 ; will — not 328 ; unit — will 330 ; not — charge 332 ; and battery — charge 334 . some of the negative pairs are : model a — model b 336 ; model c — model a 338 ; battery — to 340 ; sync — battery 342 ; and screen — sync 344 . these pairs are identified for illustrative purposes , and those skilled in the art recognize that many other positive and negative pairs exist in the term prediction matrix 300 as well . next , a preferred method for iteratively building a category list 116 by sequentially evaluating each positive pair on the positive pair list 112 , in view of each negative pair on the negative pair list 114 and each currently existing category within the category list 116 is presented . while a functional method for building the category list is described below only with respect a first and second set of positive pairs and first , second , and third categories , preferably the category discovery module 106 iteratively applies this functionality in turn to all positive pairs within the positive pair list 112 in the order in which the positive pairs are listed on the positive pair list 112 and with respect to all categories within the category list 116 as it is expanded . generally , positive pairs are used to join terms into the same category , while the negative pairs are used to split categories . alternatively , however , the terms that occur in any positive or negative pair can be pre - processed using a marking algorithm , and grouped according to which terms they are connected . to begin , the category discovery module 106 defines as a first category , within the category list 116 , those terms within a first positive pair within the positive pair list 112 . the category discovery module 106 adds terms from a second positive pair , within the positive pair list 112 , to the first category , if and only if : ( a ) exactly one of the terms within the second positive pair matches one of the terms in the first category ; ( b ) the other term within the second positive pair is not negatively paired with any of the terms within the first category ( i . e . there is no entry on the negative pair list 114 containing the other term within the second positive pair and any of the terms within the first category ), and ( c ) the resulting category ( i . e ., expanding the first category with the other term within the second positive pair ) is not already on the category list . if the terms in the second positive pair can not be added to the first category because condition ( a ) is satisfied , but condition ( b ) is not , then : duplicate the first category and define the duplicate as a second category ; remove those terms within the second category that are negatively correlated with the other term in the second positive pair ; add the other term in the second positive pair to the second category ; and add the second category to the category list 116 , if and only if this second category is not already on the list . if neither condition ( a ) nor condition ( b ) is satisfied for any category on the category list 116 , then : define a new ( i . e . “ third ”) category as including the terms within the second positive pair and add the third category to the category list 116 , if and only if this third category is not already on the category list 116 . as mentioned above , the category discovery module 106 next applies the functionality described above to all remaining positive pairs within the positive pair list 112 in the order in which the positive pairs are listed on the positive pair list 112 . in this way all of the terms within the remaining positive pairs are either added to one of the existing categories within the first category list , or are added as new categories to the first category list . those skilled in the art , however , will recognize that there are other ways in which the category list 116 can be built using the positive pair list 112 and the negative pair list 114 as well . the category discovery module 106 labels each category within the first category list as a concatenated set of the terms within each category . the category discovery module 106 reorders the terms within each category label according to each term &# 39 ; s frequency of occurrence within the document collection , with a most frequently occurring term being listed as a first term in the label , and a least frequently occurring term being listed as a last term in the label . the ordering can be done iteratively on a pair by pair basis . in other words , given a set of label terms { w 1 , w 2 , . . . , w n }, measure for each pair of terms ( w i , w j ) in the set which one occurs before the other more frequently in the document collection and order the terms in the description accordingly . such ordering can also be done globally for all n terms , regardless of the categories discovered , which induces an ordering of all n terms , so that each category label can be ordered accordingly . such term ordering tends to generate more readable category descriptions . in an alternate embodiment , however , a human can manually order the terms in a way deemed most natural or descriptive to him or her , and optionally add additional descriptive text to the category . fig4 is one example of a set of categories within the system 100 . the set of categories are included within a first category list 402 . the first category list 402 was built from a positive pair list 404 and a negative pair list 406 . for example , the “ not — battery — will — charge ” category was built from the “ not — battery ”, “ will — not ”, “ not — charge ”, and “ battery — charge ” pairs on the positive pair list 404 . the “ screen — cracked ” and “ screen — dim ” positive pairs were kept in separate categories due to the “ dim — cracked ” category in the negative pair list 406 . the “ stylus — holder ” category was kept separate since neither the “ stylus ” nor the “ holder ” terms matched the other categories on the category list 402 . next , a category organization module 118 hierarchically organizes the categories within the category list 116 into a category tree 120 and discovers any “ singleton ” type categories ( i . e ., a category consisting of a single term ) that are present within the negative pair list 114 . the category organization module 118 performs the hierarchical organization using the negative pair list 114 to recursively dichotomize the categories within the category list 116 . the categories are organized in a parent - child relationship up to and including a root parent at the top of the hierarchy . to begin , the category organization module 118 assigns all of the categories within the category list 116 to a root node , called a main root , of the category tree 120 . fig5 a is one example of a first step in building a category hierarchy and shows a main root node 502 which includes all of the categories within the first category list 402 . the category organization module 118 retrieves a first negative pair on the negative pair list 406 . since the terms that make up the negative pairs are negatively correlated , categories in the main root node 502 containing these terms are on different branches of the category tree 120 . fig5 b is one example of a second step in building a category hierarchy and is used to help describe the elements of the present invention that follow . the category organization module 118 identifies all categories within the main root node 502 that contain the left member of the first negative pair ( e . g . “ sync ” 504 ) and assigns them to a first child node 506 of the main root node 502 . however , since none of the categories in the main root node 502 contained the term “ sync ” 504 , the first child node 506 is a singleton “ sync ” 506 category . thus the category organization module 118 discovered a new category which was not originally listed under the main root node 502 . the category organization module 118 labels the first child node 506 with the left member term of the negative pair ( i . e . “ sync ”). the category organization module 118 identifies all categories within the main root node 502 that contain the right member ( e . g . “ battery ” 508 ) of the negative pair and assigns those categories ( e . g . “ not — battery — will — charge ” 510 ) to a second child node 512 of the main root node 502 . the category organization module 118 labels the second child node 512 with the right member term of the negative pair ( i . e . “ battery ”). the category organization module 118 assigns all remaining categories within the main root node 502 ( e . g . “ screen — cracked ” 514 , “ screen — dim ” 516 , and “ stylus — holder ” 518 ) to a third child node 520 of the main root node 502 . the category organization module 118 labels the third child node 520 “ other ”. the category organization module 118 retrieves a second negative pair ( e . g . “ screen — sync ”) on the negative pair list 406 . fig5 c is one example of a third step in building a category hierarchy and is used to help describe the elements of the present invention that follow . the category organization module 118 applies the second negative pair and the functionality described above with respect to the root node 502 to each of the three child nodes 506 , 512 , and 520 . more specifically , the category organization module 118 identifies any categories within each of the child nodes 506 , 512 , and 520 that contain the left member term of the second negative pair ( e . g . “ screen ” 522 ) and , if the child node is not labeled “ other ”, assigns them to a new child node of that child node which contained the left member term of the second negative pair . if the child node is labeled “ other ”, the category organization module 118 assigns those categories ( e . g . “ screen — cracked ” 514 , and “ screen — dim ” 516 ) under “ other ” that contain the left member term of the second negative pair to a new child node 524 ( i . e . a fourth child node 524 ) of the main root node 502 . the category organization module 118 labels the fourth child node 524 with the left member term of the second negative pair ( i . e . “ screen ”). the category organization module 118 identifies all categories within each of the child nodes 506 , 512 , and 520 that contain the right member ( e . g . “ sync ” 526 ) of the second negative pair and assigns those categories ( note : there are no such categories in the example of fig5 c ) to a new child node of that child node which contained the right member term of the second negative pair and applies a label as discussed above . the category organization module 118 assigns all remaining categories within each of the child nodes 506 , 512 , and 520 to a new “ other ” child node of that child node which contained the remaining categories . the category organization module 118 retrieves in turn all subsequent negative pairs on the negative pair list 406 and continues processing those child nodes within the category tree 120 which still have more than one category listed from the first category list 402 according to the procedure discussed above . preferably the category tree 120 is processed each time starting with those nodes closer to the main root 502 , before processing each of their respective child nodes . fig5 d , and e , are respectively examples of a fourth , fifth and sixth steps in building the category hierarchy and is used to help further discuss the elements of the present invention that follow . from fig5 d , the remaining negative pairs on the negative pair list 406 include , “ dim — cracked ” 528 , “ stylus — sync ” 530 , and “ model a — model b ” 532 . the negative pair “ dim — cracked ” 528 resulted in the creation of new child nodes labeled “ screen — cracked ” 534 and “ screen — dim ” 536 . the “ other ” category child node 520 has been relabeled as “ stylus — holder ” 520 since that was the only category left under the “ other ” node 520 . if both members of a negative pair ( e . g . “ model a — model b ” 532 ) are not found in any of the categories under the main root 502 within the category tree 120 , the category organization module 118 creates a new main root ( e . g . “ main2 ” 538 in fig5 e ), also called an “ orphan root ”, in parallel with the main root 502 . the new main root 538 becomes part of a second category list 540 containing that negative pair ( e . g . “ model a — model b ” 532 ) and new child nodes ( e . g . “ model a ” 542 and “ model b ” 544 ) are created according to the method of the present invention discussed above . fig6 is a flowchart of one root embodiment of a method 600 for category discovery . in step 602 , the system 100 receives an information collection including a set of strings . in step 604 , the category discovery module 106 identifies positively predictive pairs of strings . in step 606 , the category discovery module 106 identifies negatively predictive pairs of strings . in step 608 , positively predictive pairs of strings are selectively joined into a single category . in step 610 , negatively predictive pairs of strings are selectively split into different categories . the root method 600 is discussed in further detail with respect to fig7 . fig7 is a flowchart of one expanded embodiment 700 of the root method for category discovery . to begin , in step 702 , the system 100 identifies a document collection within a document collection database 102 . in step 704 , a field selector 104 selects a field within the document collection to be categorized . in step 706 , a category discovery module 106 calculates a frequency of occurrence for each term within each of the documents . in step 708 , the discovery module 106 generates a list ( l ) of the most frequently occurring terms within the document collection . in step 710 , the discovery module 106 builds a bit vector matrix 108 for the list . next , in step 712 , for each pair of term bit vectors the discovery module 106 defines “ all_positives ” as a number of rows in which the first term bit vector in the pair has a first label . in step 714 , for each pair of term bit vectors the discovery module 106 defines “ all_negatives ” as a number of rows in which the first term bit vector in the pair has a second label . in step 716 , for each pair of term bit vectors the discovery module 106 defines “ true_positives ” as a number of rows in the matrix 108 in which both term v and term w have the first label . in step 718 , for each pair of term bit vectors the discovery module 106 defines “ false_negatives ” as a number of rows in the matrix 108 in which term v 206 has the first label but term w 208 has the second label . in step 720 , for each pair of term bit vectors the discovery module 106 defines “ false_positives ” as a number of rows in the matrix 108 in which term v 206 has the second label but term w 208 has the first label . in step 722 , the discovery module 106 builds a term prediction matrix 110 including a set of term prediction values , as discussed above . in step 724 , the discovery module 106 clamps a prediction value within the prediction matrix 110 to zero if an absolute value of the prediction value is below a predetermined threshold . in step 726 , the discovery module 106 analyzes diametrically - opposed , off - diagonal pairs of prediction values within the matrix 110 , starting with a 2 × 2 sub - matrix in an upper left corner . in step 728 , if the two matrix prediction values are both positive , then the discovery module 106 attributes a positive prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to a positive pair list 112 . in step 730 , if the two matrix prediction values are both negative , then the discovery module 106 attributes a negative prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to a negative pair list 114 . in step 732 , if the matrix prediction values are both below the threshold value , then the discovery module 106 clamps the prediction values to zero , and the pair of terms are not added to either the positive pair list 112 or the negative pair list 114 . in step 733 , if one of the matrix prediction values is positive and the other prediction value is clamped , then the discovery module 106 attributes a positive prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to the positive pair list 112 . in step 734 , if one of the matrix entry values is negative and the other is clamped , then the discovery module 106 attributes a negative prediction to the corresponding pair of terms and adds the pair of terms to the negative pair list 114 . in step 735 , the discovery module 106 expands the 2 × 2 sub - matrix by one row and one column to form a 3 × 3 sub - matrix and again analyzes the diametrically opposed , off - diagonal pairs of prediction values in row 3 and column 3 within the matrix 110 and the positive and negative pair identification steps ( i . e . steps 728 through 730 ) are repeated for the 3 × 3 sub - matrix entries . in step 736 , the discovery module 106 the sub - matrix is iteratively expanded by one row and column until all positive and negative pairs have been discovered within the n × n term prediction matrix 110 . in step 738 , the category discovery module 106 defines as a first category , within the category list 116 , those terms within a first positive pair within the positive pair list 112 . in step 740 , the category discovery module 106 adds terms from a second positive pair , within the positive pair list 112 , to the first category , if and only if : ( a ) exactly one of the terms within the second positive pair already matches one of the terms in the first category ; and ( b ) the other term within the second positive pair is not negatively paired with any of the terms within the first category . if the terms in the second positive pair can not be added to the first category because condition ( a ) is satisfied , but condition ( b ) is not , then : in step 742 , duplicate the first category and define the duplicate as a second category ; in step 744 , remove those terms within the second category that are negatively correlated with the other term in the second positive pair ; in step 746 , add the other term in the second positive pair to the second category ; and in step 748 , add the second category to the category list 116 , if and only if , this second category is not already on the list . if neither condition ( a ) nor condition ( b ) is satisfied , then : in step 750 , define a third category as including the terms within the second positive pair , if and only if , this third category is not already on the list . in step 752 , the category discovery module 106 applies the functionality within steps 740 through 750 to all remaining positive pairs within the positive pair list 112 in the order in which the positive pairs are listed on the positive pair list 112 . in step 754 , the category discovery module 106 labels each category within the first category list as a concatenated set of the terms within each category . in step 756 , the category discovery module 106 reorders the terms within each category label according to each term &# 39 ; s frequency of occurrence within the document collection , with a most frequently occurring term being listed as a first term in the label , and a least frequently occurring term being listed as a last term in the label . in step 758 , the category organization module 118 assigns all of the categories within the category list 116 to a root node , called a main root , of the category tree 120 . in step 760 , the category organization module 118 retrieves a first negative pair on the negative pair list 406 . in step 762 , the category organization module 118 identifies all categories within the main root node 502 that contain the left member of the first negative pair ( e . g . “ sync ” 504 ) and assigns them to a first child node 506 of the main root node 502 . in step 764 , the category organization module 118 labels the first child node 506 with the left member term of the negative pair ( i . e . “ sync ”). in step 766 , the category organization module 118 identifies all categories within the main root node 502 that contain the right member ( e . g . “ battery ” 508 ) of the negative pair and assigns those categories ( e . g . “ not — battery — will — charge ” 510 ) to a second child node 512 of the main root node 502 . in step 768 , the category organization module 118 labels the second child node 512 with the right member term of the negative pair ( i . e . “ battery ”). in step 770 , the category organization module 118 assigns all remaining categories within the main root node 502 ( e . g . “ screen — cracked ” 514 , “ screen — dim ” 516 , and “ stylus — holder ” 518 ) to a third child node 520 of the main root node 502 . in step 772 , the category organization module 118 labels the third child node 520 “ other ”. in step 774 , the category organization module 118 retrieves a second negative pair ( e . g . “ screen — sync ”) on the negative pair list 406 . in step 776 , the category organization module 118 identifies any categories within each of the child nodes 506 , 512 , and 520 that contain the left member term of the second negative pair ( e . g . “ screen ” 522 ) and , if the child node is not labeled “ other ”, assigns them to a new child node of that child node which contained the left member term of the second negative pair . in step 778 , if the child node is labeled “ other ”, the category organization module 118 assigns those categories ( e . g . “ screen — cracked ” 514 , and “ screen — dim ” 516 ) under “ other ” that contain the left member term of the second negative pair to a new child node 524 ( i . e . a fourth child node 524 ) of the main root node 502 . in step 780 , the category organization module 118 labels the fourth child node 524 with the left member term of the second negative pair ( i . e . “ screen ”). in step 782 , the category organization module 118 identifies all categories within each of the child nodes 506 , 512 , and 520 that contain the right member ( e . g . “ sync ” 526 ) of the second negative pair and assigns those categories to a new child node of that child node which contained the right member term of the second negative pair and applies a label as discussed above . in step 784 , the category organization module 118 assigns all remaining categories within each of the child nodes 506 , 512 , and 520 to a new “ other ” child node of that child node which contained the remaining categories . in step 786 , the category organization module 118 retrieves in turn all subsequent negative pairs on the negative pair list 406 and continues processing those child nodes within the category tree 120 which still have more than one category listed from the first category list 402 according to the procedure discussed above . in step 788 , if both members of a negative pair ( e . g . “ model a — model b ” 532 ) are not found in any of the categories under the main root 502 within the category tree 120 , the category organization module 118 creates a new main root ( e . g . “ main2 ” 538 in fig5 e ), also called an “ orphan root ”, in parallel with the main root 502 . the procedures discussed above can be performed by instructions on a computer - usable medium executed by a computer . while one or more embodiments of the present invention have been described , those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications may be made . variations upon and modifications to these embodiments are provided by the present invention , which is limited only by the following claims . | US-90292404-A |
a control apparatus for a synchromesh type automatic transmission for automatically changing over a plurality of speed gear stages from one to another in an internal combustion engine , which apparatus is capable of suppressing occurrence of raid deceleration of the engine , engine blowup event or the like problem even when the accelerator pedal is manipulated during a period in which the throttle valve is being closed . the control apparatus includes an electromagnetic clutch capable of assuming alternatively a torque transmitting state and a torque interrupting state in response to a change of an exciting current fed to the electromagnetic clutch , an accelerator pedal position sensor for detecting a depression stroke of an accelerator pedal , an engine rotation speed sensor for detecting a rotation speed of the engine , and a control unit arranged such that upon decision of start of upshift operation , a closing speed of an electronically controlled throttle valve is arithmetically determined by the control unit on the basis of a data map prepared in advance with opening degree of the throttle valve being controlled in response to a command value issued by the control unit . | the present invention will be described in detail in conjunction with what is presently considered as preferred or typical embodiments thereof by reference to the drawings . in the following description , like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views . also in the following description , it is to be understood that such terms as “ left ”, “ right ”, “ front ” and “ rear ” the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms . [ 0026 ] fig1 is a view showing a structure of the control apparatus for a synchromesh type automatic transmission according to an embodiment of the present invention . in the figure , reference numeral 1 generally denotes an internal combustion engine ( also referred to simply as the engine ), 2 denotes an electromagnetic clutch ( also referred to simply as the clutch ), 3 denotes generally the synchromesh type automatic transmission , and reference numeral 4 denotes a control unit . the engine 1 is equipped with an intake pipe 10 in which a throttle valve 11 is disposed . the opening degree of the throttle valve 11 is detected by a throttle position sensor 9 which is mounted on the intake pipe 10 at a position in the vicinity of the throttle valve 11 , the output signal of the throttle position sensor 9 being supplied to the control unit 4 . further , the depression stroke of the accelerator pedal ( not shown ) manipulated by a driver of the motor vehicle equipped with the engine system now concerned is detected by a accelerator pedal position sensor 13 . more specifically , the accelerator pedal position sensor 13 is so designed as to generate an output signal indicative of the accelerator pedal depression stroke , which signal is also supplied to the control unit 4 . the control unit 4 processes the output signal of the accelerator pedal position sensor 13 to arithmetically determine a desired throttle valve opening position which conform to the accelerator pedal depression stroke , whereon the control unit 4 controls the throttle valve 11 by means of a throttle valve actuator 12 via a feedback loop on the basis of deviation or difference between the desired throttle valve opening position mentioned above and the throttle valve opening degree or position detected by the throttle position sensor 9 to thereby cause the throttle valve opening degree or position to coincide with the desired throttle valve opening position . further provided is an engine rotation speed sensor 15 which is disposed in the vicinity of a crank shaft 21 of the engine for detecting the rotation speed ( rpm ) thereof . a reverse gear switch 16 is disposed in the vicinity of a sleeve gear 100 c of a shift gear unit 100 described later on and serves for detecting the meshing between the sleeve gear 100 c and a driven gear 37 a of a reverse ( backward ) speed change gear train 37 also described hereinafter . the electromagnetic clutch 2 is interposed between the crank shaft 21 of the engine 1 and an input shaft 22 of the synchromesh type automatic transmission 3 for controlling transmission / interruption of motion or torque from the crank shaft 21 to the input shaft 22 of the synchromesh type automatic transmission 3 . the electromagnetic clutch 2 is supplied with a clutch exciting current which is in proportion to the torque to be transmitted through the clutch under the control of the control unit 4 , to thereby transmit or transfer the torque of the crank shaft 21 to the input shaft 22 of the synchromesh type automatic transmission 3 as the controlled torque . the synchromesh type automatic transmission 3 is presumed as being implemented in the form of a five stage speed change gear drive of counter shaft type which is comprised of , for example , five sets of forward speed change gear trains 33 to 36 and 38 and one set of backward or reverse speed change gear train 37 , and a shift gear unit 100 which includes a plurality of sleeve gears 100 a to 100 c for changing over coupling between the speed change gear trains and an output shaft 32 . in the case of the illustrated synchromesh type automatic transmission 3 , it is also presumed that the shift gear unit 100 includes three sleeve gears . the input torque transmitted to the input shaft 22 from the crank shaft 21 through the medium of the electromagnetic clutch 2 is transmitted to a counter shaft 31 disposed in parallel to the input shaft 22 by way of a primary gear train 33 disposed frontmost ( leftmost as viewed in fig1 ). the output shaft 32 is disposed coaxially with the input shaft 22 . mounted rotatably on the output shaft 32 are driven gears 33 a to 36 a and 38 a of the forward speed change gear trains 33 to 36 and 38 , respectively , and additionally the driven gear 37 a of the reverse speed change gear train 37 . on the other hand , mounted fixedly on the counter shaft 31 which is disposed in parallel with the output shaft 32 are driving gears 33 b to 36 b of the forward speed change gear trains 33 to 36 and 38 , respectively , and a driving gear 37 c of the reverse speed change gear train 37 which engages an intermediate gear 37 b which is in turn in engagement with the driven gear 37 a . furthermore , a first sleeve gear 100 a is disposed axially movably and nonrotatably on the output shaft 32 at the front side of the third speed gear train 34 ( i . e ., between the primary gear train 33 and the third speed gear train 34 ), a second sleeve gear 100 b is disposed axially movably and nonrotatably on the output shaft 32 between the second speed gear train 35 and the first ( or low ) speed gear train 36 , and a third sleeve gear 100 c is disposed axially movably and nonrotatably on the output shaft 32 between the reverse speed change gear train 37 and the fifth ( or over top ) speed gear train 38 . the first sleeve gear 100 a is adapted to be moved along the output shaft 32 by means of a shift fork 101 described later on to be thereby coupled with the driven gear 33 a of the primary gear train 33 , whereby the input shaft 22 of the automatic transmission and the output shaft 32 thereof are directly coupled to each other . in that case , the first sleeve gear 10 a serves as the fourth speed gear . the torque transmission path and the speed change ratio ( gear ratio of the primary gear × gear ratio of the relevant speed gear ) change in dependence on which of the driven gears 33 a to 36 a and 38 a of the forward speed change gear trains 33 to 36 and 38 and the driven gear 37 a of the reverse speed change gear train 37 is selected . operated under the control of the control unit 4 . more specifically , the shift gear 100 is shifted by means of the shift / select actuator unit 5 for gear change which is controlled by the output signal of the control unit 4 , whereby the speed change operation is realized by the release operation for releasing the mechanical meshing or engagement of the gears of the speed stage acting currently and the coupling operation for causing the succeeding speed stage gears to be meshed . by the way , the meshing or engagement between the driven gear 37 a of the reverse speed change gear train 37 and the sleeve gear 10 c is detected by the reverse gear switch 16 . inputted to the control unit 4 are a shift lever position signal indicating the position of a shift lever 14 manipulated by the driver of the motor vehicle , the output signal of the accelerator pedal position sensor 13 indicating the depression stroke or position of the accelerator pedal ( not shown ) and the output signal of the output shaft rotation speed sensor 8 of the automatic transmission which sensor is adapted to detect the rotation speed ( rpm ) of the output shaft 32 of the transmission . in response to these signals , the control unit 4 arithmetically determines the speed stage suited for the current vehicle running state on the basis of a gear shift pattern ( not shown ) of the transmission to thereby output an appropriate control signal to the shift / select actuator unit 5 for shifting the shift gear 100 while detecting the shifted / selected position of the shift lever 14 by means of the shifted / selected position sensor unit 6 . thus , the shift gear 100 is shifted by means of the shift / select actuator unit 5 which is controlled by the output signal of the control unit 4 , whereby the speed change operation is realized by the release operation for releasing the mechanical meshing or engagement of the gears of the current speed stage and the coupling operation for causing the gears of the desired or target speed stage to be meshed . the synchronous state of the shift gear 100 can be detected on the basis of the relation between the input shaft rotation speed ( rpm ) of the transmission and the output shaft rotation speed thereof detected by the input shaft rotation speed sensor 7 and the output shaft rotation speed sensor 8 , respectively , of the transmission . for changing the speed , the throttle valve 11 is closed to a predetermined throttle position by means of the throttle valve actuator 12 while the exciting current fed to the electromagnetic clutch 2 is interrupted , whereby the synchromesh type automatic transmission is set to the power - off state . in this state , the speed stage changeover ( gear change ) operation is performed . [ 0033 ] fig2 is a view for illustrating operation of the shift gear unit 100 upon gear change from the first speed gear ( first speed stage or range ) to the second speed gear ( second speed stage or range ) in the synchromesh type automatic transmission according to the instant embodiment of the present invention . at the first speed stage , the second sleeve gear 100 b of the shift gear unit 100 is meshing or working with the synchronizer ring 102 and the synchronizer cone 103 of the first speed gear , whereby the torque is transmitted from the first speed gear to the output shaft 33 of the transmission by way of the second sleeve gear 10 b . when the command for speed change from the first speed stage or range to the second speed stage or range is issued , the shift fork 101 is caused to shift toward the second speed gear by means of the shift / select actuator unit 5 under the control of the control unit 4 , as a result of which the mechanical meshing between the second sleeve gear 100 b and the first speed gear is released , whereon the synchronizer ring 102 for the second speed range is caused to move toward the second speed gear by the second sleeve gear 10 o b to be pressed against the synchronizer cone 103 . thus , the output shaft 33 of the transmission and the second speed gear shaft are caused to rotate synchronously , bringing about the mechanical meshing between the second sleeve gear 100 b on one hand and the gears of the synchronizer ring 102 and the synchronizer cone 103 on the other hand . then , the speed change operation from the first speed range to the second speed range is completed . [ 0034 ] fig3 is a view showing schematically a structures of the shift / select actuator unit 5 and the shifted / selected position sensor unit 6 in the synchromesh type automatic transmission according to the instant embodiment of the present invention . as is shown in fig3 the shift / select actuator unit 5 is comprised of a shift actuator 5 a for driving or actuating the shift fork 101 and a select actuator 5 b for selectively driving the shift fork 101 . the shift actuator 5 a includes a shift motor 51 for moving the shift fork 101 in the axial direction of the output shaft 32 and a reduction gear 53 for transmitting the driving power of the shift motor 51 to the shift fork 101 with speed reduction . on the other hand , the select actuator 5 b includes a select motor 52 for moving the shift fork 101 in the rotational direction and a reduction gear 54 for transmitting the driving power of the select motor 52 to the shift fork 101 with speed reduction . the shifted / selected position sensor unit 6 is composed of a shifted position sensor 61 disposed adjacent to the reduction gear 53 of the shift actuator 5 a for detecting the shifted position of the shift fork 101 and a selected position sensor 62 disposed adjacent to the reduction gear 54 of the select actuator 5 b for detecting the selected position of the shift fork 101 . the shift operation is carried out under the control of the control unit 4 in the manner described below . the shift fork 101 is driven in the axial direction of the output shaft 32 of the automatic transmission by the shift motor 51 incorporated in the shift actuator 5 a through the medium of the reduction gear 53 . in that case , the shifted position of the shift fork 101 is detected by the shifted position sensor 61 , whereon the signal indicative of the shifted position is fed back to the control unit 4 . in other words , the feedback control for the shifted position is performed . similarly , the select operation is carried out under the control of the control unit 4 in the manner described below . the shift fork 101 is driven in the rotational direction of the output shaft 32 of the automatic transmission by the select motor 52 incorporated in the select actuator 5 b through the medium of the reduction gear 54 so that the shift fork 101 selectively meshes or engages with one of the sleeve gears 10 a to 100 c of the shift gear unit 100 . in that case , the selected position of the shift fork 101 is detected by the selected position sensor 62 , whereon the signal indicative of the selected position is fed back to the control unit 4 . in other words , the feedback control for the selected position is performed . [ 0039 ] fig4 is a view showing graphically relations between the shifted positions of the shift fork 101 and the output characteristics of the shifted position sensor 61 described previously . in the figure , vya represents a learned voltage value indicating the shifted position at the first , third and fifth speed stages , vyb represents a learned voltage value indicating the shifted position at the neutral position , and vyc represents a learned voltage value indicating the shifted position at the second and fourth speed stages and the reverse stage , respectively . [ 0040 ] fig5 is a view showing graphically relations between the selected positions of the shift fork 101 and the output characteristics of the selected position sensor 62 described above . in the figure , vxa represents a learned voltage value indicating the selected position at the first and second speed stages , vxb represents a learned voltage value indicating the selected position at the third and fourth speed stages ( including the neutral position ), and vxc represents a learned voltage value indicating the selected position at the fifth speed stage and the reverse stage , respectively . now , description will turn to operation of the synchromesh type automatic transmission according to the instant embodiment of the invention by reference to the flow fig6 which shows a flow chart illustrating a throttle valve closing control procedure and a clutch release ( clutch off ) control procedure upon starting of the speed gear changing operation . referring to fig6 in a step s 110 , decision is made as to whether or not the speed change operation has been started through a speed change operation start decision subroutine ( step s 100 ). when the decision in the step s 110 results in affirmation “ yes ”, then the throttle valve closing rate or speed is determined on the basis of the position of the accelerator pedal . then , the time a taken for closing fully the throttle valve is determined in accordance with the following expression : a =( current opening degree of throttle valve − opening degree of fully closed throttle valve )/ determined throttle valve closing speed . furthermore , the clutch - off time ( i . e ., time taken for the clutch to be released to the off - state ) b is arithmetically determined on the basis of the engine rotation speed and the exciting current , whereon a speed change flag is set to “ 1 ” in a step s 120 . on the other hand , when the decision step s 110 results in negation “ no ”, the processing proceeds to a step s 130 by skipping the step s 120 . in the step s 130 , it is decided whether the speed change is being validated ( i . e ., whether or not the speed change flag is set to “ 1 ”). when this decision step s 130 results in affirmation “ yes ”, then the time a taken for closing fully the throttle valve and the clutch - off time b are compared with each other . in case a & lt ; b , the processing proceeds to a step s 160 where the clutch is released to the off - state . on the other hand , when the decision step s 140 results in that a ≧ b , the time lapsed from the time point the speed change operation was started to the current time point is compared with the time difference or period given by a − b in a step s 150 . when the time lapse mentioned above is longer than the time period ( a − b ), the processing proceeds to the step s 160 where the clutch is released to the off - state . on the other hand , unless the above - mentioned time lapse does not exceed the time difference ( a − b ), the processing proceeds to a step s 170 . further , after the clutch has been released in the step s 160 , the step s 170 is executed . in the step s 170 , the throttle opening degree in the current operation cycle is arithmetically determined in accordance with the following expression : throttle opening degree in current operation cycle = throttle opening degree in preceding operation cycle −( throttle valve closing speed × a ). at this juncture , with the phrase “ throttle valve closing speed ”, it is intended to mean the decreasing rate of the throttle opening degree during one cycle operation . in succession , decision is made in a step s 180 as to whether the speed change operation has been completed . when this decision step s 180 results in “ yes ”, a step s 190 is executed to clear the speed change flag , whereupon the processing comes to an end . on the other hand , when the step s 180 results in “ no ”, the processing is terminated without clearing the speed change flag . [ 0047 ] fig7 is a view for graphically illustrating a relation between the throttle opening degree at the time point when the speed change operation is started and the throttle valve closing rate or speed . [ 0048 ] fig8 is a view graphically showing relations between the clutch exciting current at the time point when the speed change operation is started and the clutch - off time with various engine rotation speeds ( 1000 , 2000 , 3000 and 5000 rpm ) being used as parameters . through the control procedure described above , the throttle valve closing rate or speed is first determined in dependence on the throttle opening degree at the time point when the speed change operation is started , and then the clutch is released to the off - state ( i . e ., the state where no torque is transmitted through the clutch ) at the time point at which the throttle valve is fully closed . thus , mismatch between the throttle opening degree and magnitude of the torque transmitted through the clutch can positively be suppressed even when the throttle opening degree should change after the speed change operation has been started . besides , because the clutch is released to the off - state in timing with full - closing of the throttle valve , steep change of the engine speed such as rapid deceleration thereof upon releasing of the clutch can be mitigated with the blowup of the engine mentioned hereinbefore being prevented . thus , comfortable speed change operation can be realized . many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in the light of the above techniques . it is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims , the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described . | US-73390200-A |
a digital set theoretic system is disclosed that expands the reasoning capability from reasoning with probability measures to reasoning with set theory measures and other venn diagram type operations using linear transformations and power series transformations , and appropriate hardware and software implementations . this expansion also leads to an increase in precision of the output which can be provided by a hardwired power series expansion . a recursive power series expansion increases this precision while reducing the spatial requirements . the system also enhances flexibility by allowing the constants of the power series expansion to be selectable . | the parent application is directed to an expert system that uses probability measures in making the inferences on a diagnosis . probability is one of the measures , available in set theory , which can be used to make reasoned judgments . using probabilistic reasoning maps sets with values between zero and one onto another set with values between zero and one . other set theory measures , based on traditional venn diagram theories , can also be used to make reasoned judgments . the present invention is designed to use polynomial equations to represent the set theoretic operations . the three basic set operations are intersection ( set 1 or set 2 ), see fig1 union ( set 1 and set 2 ), see fig2 and complement set 1 , see fig3 . all other set theoretic operations are combinations of these three basic operations . in this invention a first set x is transformed into another set set 1 via various combinations of linear transformations or power series expansions . for example , the union of sets x 1 and x 2 , where x 1 and x 2 are independent , using the method of the present invention is set forth in equation 1 : which is a multiplication of two linear transformations and where a 1 and a 2 are one and b 1 and b 2 are 0 . the nor set theoretic operation is realized , when x 1 and x 2 are independent , as set forth in equation 2 : which is a multiplication of two linear transformations where a 1 and a 2 and b 1 and b 2 are each one . as discussed in the parent application , particularly with respect to equation 7 therein , a linear transformation represents a set theoretic operation on a set within the universe of discourse . for example , a set operation on set x is illustrated in equation ( 3 ): which is the basic single linear transformation discussed in the parent application . as discussed above many set operations can be represented by higher order transformations such as equation 4 below : the set gate illustrated in fig4 and described in more detail in the parent application , can be used to obtain the intersection of or conjunction of set 1 and set 2 . using this approach , the present invention allows the construction of the set theory operations illustrated in fig5 by appropriately setting the signs and magnitudes of the constants , as indicated in fig5 in the gate of fig4 . that is , any set theory measure which can be represented using a set operation can be reasoned with using the discrete bus wide component , software or dedicated processor versions of the probabilistic gate discussed in the parent application . it is often appropriate to increase the precision of the operation thereby representing the resulting set more accurately . this can be accomplished by providing a high order function gate such as a high - order and function , of course realizing that the other high ordered functions such as nor , can be accomplished with the appropriate constants . a high order and function can be obtained in terms of the high ordered set operation previously discussed with respect to equations 1 and 4 . a high order set operation can also be represented by a polynomial , namely a finite power series expansion : the order of this polynomial is determined by a compromise between the amount of idle time available in the gate 14 and the accuracy needed to represent the implies function or set and the amount of space available for storing the coefficients . the high order function can also be written as a product of linear transformations : ## equ1 ## since the probabilistic or set gate 14 of fig4 is fundamentally a mechanism for multiplying two linear expressions together , if a linear and gate 18 is supplied with the same signal on both inputs , as illustrated in fig6 a quadratic and gate is constructed . a power series expansion gate 16 is constructed of three quadratic gates 18 - 20 connected serially . as illustrated in fig7 gates 18 and 20 include storage units 30 and 32 , such as registers , for storing a pair of constants , and multipliers 34 and 36 for combining the input signal with a first constant . adders 38 and 40 combine the second constant with the multiplied result and multiplier 42 combines the result of addition to obtain the high ordered output . the gate 22 of fig6 is the same as illustrated in fig4 . the power series expansion can alternately be written in terms of a recursive formula : x . sub . o = y . sub . n + 1 = a . sub . o +[ a . sub . 1 +[ a . sub . 2 [ a . sub . 3 +[ a . sub . 4 +[ a . sub . 5 +[. . . ] x ] x ] x ] x ] x ] x ( 8 ) this approach to obtaining the higher ordered and function can be implemented using a gate as illustrated in fig8 . this gate includes two power series expansion units 52 and 54 and a multiplier 56 . each power series expansion unit includes temporary storage 58 for the input signal , a i register or memory 60 storing the constants , a i , of equation 8 , a multiplier 62 , adder 64 and storage 66 for performing the recursive addition , multiplication and feedback . the two approaches to the implementation of a high ordered probabilistic or set and gate have complementary features the product of linear transformations requires a large number of storage registers to hold the linear transformation coefficients , in fact , twice as many as the recursive approach requires since there is no unique solution for the bi and ci in terms of the ai , the terms must satisfy certain constraints as previously discussed , the output is the multiplication of two linear transformations as illustrated in equation 9 : where a = ac , b =( bc + ad ) and c = bd = 1 . even though other constraints on a , b and c could be selected these constraints are preferred and will provide a satisfactory solution . the recursive technique is self contained in one processing element , is truly systolic and reduces the amount of idle time associated with processing elements awaiting the downloading of data because plural constants are stored in the element and the element provides temporary feedback storage . each of the methods illustrated in fig6 and 8 can be implemented as discrete bus wide units such as bus wide multipliers and adders as discussed in the parent application . the implementations can also be performed in a single processing unit performing the operations of fig6 or 9 of the parent application for each input and multiplying the results . for example , the implementation of equation 10 below by a computer will perform the function of the gate of fig6 . the flowchart which is fig6 of the parent application can be modified by one of ordinary skill to appropriately obtain the high resolution outputs discussed above . the system can also be implemented as a special purpose dedicated processor such as illustrated in fig8 and 23 of the parent application . a person of ordinary skill in the art can appropriately modify the dedicated processors of the parent application to implement the high resolution gates as described above . to enhance the programmable capability of the system of the present invention or of the probabilistic reasoning system of the parent application , a selectable constants capability can be provided for a gate as illustrated in fig9 . this version of the gate substitutes random access memories 70 - 76 for the single constant storage illustrated in fig4 and additionally provides address registers 78 - 84 for determining which constants stored in the rams are output . although not shown in fig9 each ram is loadable from a bus outside the gate 68 . during operation the address registers 78 - 84 are loaded with the address of the constants to be used in the current cycle and the output obtained . during the next cycle the address registers 78 - 84 are loaded with the address of the next set of constants to be used . it is of course possible to provide a storage ram for the output of multiplier 11 . if a virtual binary tree of processors is implemented , as discussed in the parent application , the cycles of the gates , and therefore the constants selected , would be determined by the number of segments into which the diagnostic problem is divided . for example , if the expert system diagnostic problem had one thousand diagnoses to make and the virtual binary tree contained 100 processors , the problem would be segmented into ten 100 input cycles , where one set of ten sets of constants are loaded into the processors for each cycle . as can be seen , this approach improves the utilization efficiency of the virtual binary tree processors at some sacrifice in speed of diagnosis . the higher ordered set function described herein not only can be used to improve probabilistic reasoning for traditional ai ( expert ) systems or neural network systems , but also provides a mechanism for spatial combination of information or signals for image recognition , 2d or 3d imaging , radar tracking , magnetic resonance imaging , sonar tracking and seismic mapping . the many features and advantages of the invention are apparent from the detailed specification and , thus , it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention which fall within the true spirit and scope thereof . further , since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art , it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described , and accordingly all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to , falling within the scope of the invention . | US-41662289-A |
a process is provided for reducing the amount of hydrogen sulfide present in a tail gas from a sulfur recovery process . the hydrogen sulfide contaminated gas along with a gas containing free oxygen is passed through a series of hydrogen sulfide oxidation zones containing an oxidation catalyst , such as one or more oxides or salts of ni , co , fe , cu , ag , mn , mo , cr , w and v , deposited on a support , such as bauxite , activated alumina , titania and activated carbon . the initial and intermediate catalyst beds are operated adiabatically by injecting a substoichiometric amount of oxygen into the gas to be treated with respect to the amount of hydrogen sulfide present in the gas so that the temperature does not exceed 150 ° c . the final catalyst bed is operated under conditions such that a superstoichiometric amount of oxygen is injected into the gas with respect to the hydrogen sulfide and cooling is provided so that the temperature does not exceed 150 ° c . the invention is able to maintain an optimum selectivity toward sulfur during the catalytic oxidation of the hydrogen sulfide by controlling the temperature . | to bring the gas containing h 2 s , that is either the gas to be treated containing h 2 s or else the gaseous mixture containing h 2 s originating from each of the catalytic oxidation stages preceding the final catalytic oxidation stage , to the temperature of between 80 ° c . and 100 ° c . before it is introduced into the catalytic oxidation stage into which it is to be injected , the procedure followed is indirect heat exchange , external to the catalytic oxidation stages , with a fluid which has an appropriate temperature . the gas containing free oxygen , introduced into each of the catalytic oxidation stages , may be delivered to the catalytic oxidation stage in question separately from the gas containing h 2 s fed to this stage . it is preferable , however , to premix both these gases before they are injected into the catalytic oxidation stage into which they are to be introduced , in order to obtain a very homogeneous reaction mixture during the contact with the catalyst present in the said catalytic oxidation stage . the premixing is preferably carried out before the step of indirect heat exchange , external to the catalytic oxidation stages , which is intended to bring the gas containing h 2 s to the temperature of between 80 ° c . and 100 ° c . before it is introduced into the catalytic oxidation stage in question . the gas containing free oxygen , introduced into each of the catalytic oxidation stages is generally air , although it is possible to employ pure oxygen or else oxygen - enriched air or even mixtures , in various proportions , of oxygen and of one or several inert gases other than nitrogen . the times of contact of the gaseous reaction mixture formed by bringing together the gas containing free oxygen and the gas containing h 2 s in each of the catalytic oxidation stages with the oxidation catalyst present in the catalytic oxidation stage in question can range from 0 . 5 second to 15 seconds and more particularly from 1 second to 10 seconds , these values being given at standard conditions of temperature and pressure . the quantity of gas containing free oxygen which is introduced into the final stage of catalytic oxidation is in excess in relation to the stoichiometric quantity required for completely oxidizing to sulphur all of the h 2 s present in the gas containing h 2 s entering the final stage . the excess can range up to fifteen times the stoichiometric quantity . the various catalytic oxidation stages of the catalytic oxidation unit may contain the same oxidation catalyst or oxidation catalysts which differ from one catalytic oxidation stage to another . it is also possible to use a single oxidation catalyst or several oxidation catalysts in each catalytic oxidation stage , these catalysts being employed as a mixture or in the form of superposed distinct layers . the oxidation catalyst or each oxidation catalyst present in a catalytic oxidation stage of the catalytic oxidation unit may be chosen from the various oxidation catalysts capable of promoting a selective conversion of h 2 s to sulphur under the action of oxygen , that is to say of promoting the reaction h 2 s + 1 / 2o 2 → s + h 2 o , with a quantitative yield at temperatures not exceeding 150 ° c . and , for example , of the order of 90 ° c . to 130 ° c ., the sulphur formed being deposited on the catalyst . in particular , the catalyst of selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur may consist of an active phase consisting of one or more oxides and / or salts of one or more transition metals such as ni , co , fe , cu , ag , mn , mo , cr , w and v , which is deposited on a support of a refractory material such as , for example , bauxite , activated and / or stabilized alumina , titanium oxide , zirconium oxide , silica , zeolites , silica / alumina mixtures , silica / titanium oxide mixtures , silica / zirconium oxide mixtures , refractory carbide or else on an active carbon support . the oxidation catalyst has a pore volume permitting a considerable sulphur loading . the pore volume of the catalyst advantageously represents 15 cm 3 to 70 cm 3 per 100 g of catalyst . the active phase , calculated as weight of metal , may represent 0 . 1 % to 15 % and , more especially , 0 . 2 % to 7 % of the weight of the oxidation catalyst . to carry out a catalytic oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur with an optimum efficiency in the catalytic oxidation unit it is necessary , throughout the stage of oxidation of the h 2 s in the said unit , for the oxidation catalyst present in each catalytic oxidation stage of the catalytic oxidation unit to be at a temperature which is at most equal to the maximum temperature θs of the temperature range in the case of which the oxidation catalyst is capable of promoting the selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur , without , however , exceeding 150 ° c . temperatures ranging from 90 ° c . to θs , without exceeding 150 ° c ., are especially suitable for carrying out the reaction of oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur in each of the catalytic stages of the catalytic oxidation unit . maintaining of the temperature of the oxidation catalyst in the initial stage of catalytic oxidation and in each of the optional intermediate stages of catalytic oxidation , which function adiabatically , is performed by controlling the quantity of gas containing free oxygen which is introduced into each of the said catalytic oxidation stages . the final catalytic oxidation stage , which operates with a controlled excess of air in order to obtain a total elimination of h 2 s in the purified gas leaving the catalytic oxidation unit , may function adiabatically when the h 2 s content of the gas entering the said final stage is such that the temperature of the reaction mixture leaving this final stage , at the end of the oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur , is at most equal to θs without , however , exceeding 150 ° c . if the h 2 s concentration of the gas entering the final catalytic oxidation stage is such that the temperature of the reaction mixture resulting from the oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur in the stage is liable to exceed the abovementioned maximum temperature , above which the oxidation catalyst no longer has the selectivity required for the oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur , the heat energy released by the oxidation reaction is removed by subjecting the catalyst in the final catalytic oxidation stage to cooling by any known method , in order to maintain the temperature at which the oxidation reaction is utilized at the value chosen in order to preserve the selectivity for sulphur . it is possible , for example , to perform the cooling with the aid of a cold fluid circulating with indirect heat exchange with the catalyst in the final catalytic oxidation stage within the catalyst bed . during the oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur in the catalytic oxidation unit the catalysts in the catalytic oxidation stages of the unit become gradually laden with sulphur . regeneration of the sulphur - laden oxidation catalysts is carried out at regular intervals by purging the catalysts with the aid of a nonoxidizing gas , the operation being carried out at temperatures of between 200 ° c . and 500 ° c ., for example between 250 ° c . and 450 ° c ., in order to vaporize the sulphur retained on the catalysts of the catalytic oxidation stages , and the regenerated catalysts are then cooled to the required temperature for a new application of the oxidation reaction , this cooling being performed by means of a gas which is at an appropriate temperature . the coolant may be optionally laden with water vapour , at least during the final stage of the cooling of the regenerated catalysts . the purging gas employed for the regeneration of the sulphur - laden oxidation catalysts of the catalytic oxidation stages of the catalytic oxidation unit may be , for example , methane , nitrogen , co 2 or mixtures of such gases or may consist of a fraction of the gas to be treated . the purging gas employed for the abovementioned regeneration may optionally contain a certain proportion of a gaseous reducing compound , for example h 2 , co or h 2 s , at least during the final stage of the regeneration , that is to say after the vaporization of most of the sulphur deposited on the catalysts of the catalytic oxidation stages of the catalytic oxidation unit . the oxidation of the h 2 s in the gas to be treated may be implemented in a single catalytic oxidation unit containing a plurality of catalytic oxidation stages arranged in series and including an initial stage and a final stage which are optionally separated by one or a number of intermediate stages , the unit operating alternately in a catalytic oxidation phase and in a regeneration / cooling phase . the operation is advantageously carried out by using a number of catalytic oxidation units such as those mentioned above , which operate in such a way that at least one of the said units is in a regeneration / cooling phase while the other units are in a catalytic oxidation phase . it is also possible to operate in a plurality of catalytic oxidation units of the above type , with one or more of the said units in the catalytic oxidation phase , at least one unit in a regeneration phase and at least one unit in a cooling phase . the gas employed for the regeneration of the catalysts contained in the catalytic oxidation stages of a catalytic oxidation unit preferably circulates in a closed circuit , starting from a heating zone , passing successively through the catalytic oxidation stages of the catalytic oxidation unit in the course of regeneration and through a cooling zone in which most of the sulphur present in the said gas is separated by condensation , in order to return to the heating zone . the regeneration gas may also , of course , travel in an open circuit . the gas employed for cooling the regenerated catalysts is of the same type as that used for the regeneration of the sulphur - laden catalysts . the regenerating gas and the cooling gas circuits may be independent from one another . however , according to one embodiment , the regenerating gas circuit defined above may also comprise a branch connecting the exit from its cooling zone to the entry of the catalytic oxidation unit in the course of regeneration while bypassing its heating zone , and this makes it possible to short - circuit the heating zone and thus to employ the regenerating gas as cooling gas . the gas which is treated by the process according to the invention contains h 2 s as the only sulphur compound in a concentration of between 0 . 7 % and 3 % by volume . the said gas containing h 2 s may come from various sources . in particular , such a gas may be a natural gas with a low h 2 s content or else a gas originating from the gasification of coal or of heavy oils . most particularly , the gas to which the process according to the invention is applied is a gas resulting from the application of a combined hydrogenation and hydrolysis step to a residual gas from a sulphur plant in order to convert into h 2 s all the sulphur compounds present in the residual gas . during the combined hydrogenation and hydrolysis step , which is usually performed in the presence of a catalyst , the sulphur compounds such as so 2 , cs 2 and cos , as well as the sulphur vapour and / or vesicular sulphur present in the residual gas , are converted to h 2 s either under the action of hydrogen -- in the case of so 2 and of sulphur vapour and / or vesicular sulphur -- or by hydrolysis -- in the case of cos and cs 2 -- by the action of the water vapour present in the residual gas . the combined hydrogenation and hydrolysis treatment is carried out at temperatures that can range approximately from 140 ° c . to 550 ° c . and preferably lie approximately between 200 ° c . and 400 ° c . the hydrogen needed for the hydrogenation reaction may be already present in the residual gas or may be formed in situ in the hydrogenation and hydrolysis zone , for example by reaction of co with h 2 o when the residual gas contains both these reactants , or may be added to the residual gas from an external source of hydrogen . a convenient way of supplying h 2 and co to the residual gas consists in adding to the residual gas the combustion gases produced by a fuel gas burner operating below stoichiometry . the quantity of hydrogen to be employed must be sufficient to obtain a practically complete conversion to h 2 s of the hydrogenable sulphur compounds or products such as so 2 , sulphur vapour and / or vesicular sulphur , which are present in the residual gas subjected to the hydrogenation and hydrolysis treatment . in practice the quantity of hydrogen which is employed may range from 1 to 6 times the stoichiometric quantity required for converting to h 2 s the hydrogenable sulphur - containing products present in the residual gas . if the residual gas does not contain sufficient water vapour for the hydrolysis of the organic sulphur compounds cos and cs 2 , the required quantity of water vapour may be added to it before the combined hydrogenation and hydrolysis treatment is performed . catalysts which can be employed for the hydrogenation and hydrolysis treatment are those containing compounds of metals of groups va , via and viii of the periodic classification of the elements , for example compounds of metals such as cobalt , molybdenum , chromium , vanadium , thorium , nickel , tungsten or uranium , the compounds possibly being deposited on a support of the silica , alumina or silica / alumina type . hydrodesulphurization catalysts based on cobalt and molybdenum oxides deposited on alumina are particularly effective for the hydrogenation and hydrolysis treatment . for this hydrogenation and hydrolysis treatment the contact times between the gaseous reaction mixture and the catalyst may vary quite widely . they advantageously lie between 0 . 5 and 8 seconds and more particularly between 1 and 5 seconds , these values being given at the standard conditions of pressure and temperature . the gaseous effluent resulting from the combined hydrogenation and hydrolysis treatment , which generally contains h 2 s as the only sulphur compound in a volume concentration within the abovementioned limits is treated next in order to recover the h 2 s therefrom in the form of sulphur , by making use of the process according to the invention . the invention will be better understood on reading the description given below of one of its embodiments which is incorporated into a process for the treatment of residual gas from a sulphur plant , the treatment process being used in the plant shown diagram - matically in the single figure of the appended drawing . this plant combines a hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor 1 and two catalytic oxidation units 2a and 2b , the catalytic oxidation units , which utilize the process according to the invention , - being mounted in parallel and each containing three catalytic oxidation stages arranged in series , each one being provided with a catalyst for selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur . more precisely , the catalytic oxidation unit 2a comprises an initial stage 3a , an intermediate stage 4a and a final catalytic oxidation stage 5a , whereas the catalytic oxidation unit 2b comprises an initial stage 3b , an intermediate stage 4b and a final catalytic oxidation stage 5b . the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor 1 comprises an entry 6 and an exit 7 , separated from each other by a stationary bed 8 of a catalyst for hydrogenation of so 2 and of sulphur to h 2 s and for hydrolysis of the compounds cos and cs 2 to h 2 s . a gas delivery conduit 9 , in which are fitted the cold circuit of an indirect heat exchanger 10 of the gas / gas exchanger type and an in - line burner 11 for supplementary heating , provided with a fuel gas delivery pipe 12 and an air delivery pipe 13 , connects the entry 6 of the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor 1 to the source of residual gas to be treated , for example to the exit of a sulphur plant which is not shown . the exit 7 of the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor 1 is extended by a discharge conduit 14 for the gases , the said conduit being connected , through the hot circuit of the indirect heat exchanger 10 , to the entry 15a of an indirect heat exchanger 15 , the exit 15b of which is extended by a conduit 16 . in the catalytic oxidation unit 2a the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a has a first end 17a and a second end 18a which are separated by a stationary bed 19a of a catalyst promoting the selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur . the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4a has a first end 20a and a second end 21a which are separated by a stationary bed 22a of a catalyst for selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur . the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a has a first end 23a and a second end 24a which are separated by a stationary bed 25a of a catalyst of selective oxidation for h 2 s to sulphur . the second end 18a of the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a is adjacent to the first end 20a of the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4a and communicates with the latter via a connecting conduit 26a in which an indirect heat exchanger 27a is fitted . similarly , the second end 21a of the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4a is adjacent to the first end 23a of the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a and communicates with the latter via a connecting conduit 28a in which an indirect heat exchanger 29a is fitted . in the catalytic oxidation unit 2b the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3b has a first end 17b and a second end 18b which are separated by a stationary bed 19b of a catalyst promoting the selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur . the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4b has a first end 20b and a second end 21b which are separated by a stationary bed 22b of a catalyst for selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur . the final catalytic oxidation stage 5b has a first end 23b and a second end 24b which are separated by a stationary bed 25b of a catalyst of selective oxidation for h 2 s to sulphur . the second end 18b of the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3b is adjacent to the first end 20b of the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4b and communicates with the latter via a connecting conduit 26b in which an indirect heat exchanger 27b is fitted . similarly , the second end 21b of the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4b is adjacent to the first end 23b of the final catalytic oxidation stage 5b and communicates with the latter via a connecting conduit 28b in which an indirect heat exchanger 29b is fitted . the first end 17a of the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a is provided with a conduit 30a which is connected , on the one hand , via a conduit 31a provided with a valve 32a to the conduit 16 extending the indirect heat exchanger 15 and , on the other hand , via a conduit 33a provided with a valve 34a , to a conduit 35 , itself connected to the suction orifice of a blower 36 and in which a sulphur condenser 37 is fitted . similarly , the first end 17b of the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b is provided with a conduit 30b which is connected , on the one hand , via a conduit 31b provided with a valve 32b to the abovementioned conduit 16 and , on the other hand , via a conduit 33b provided with a valve 34b to the said conduit 35 at a point of this conduit which is situated between the sulphur condenser 37 and the conduit 33a . the second end 24a of the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a is provided with a conduit 38a which is connected , on the one hand , via a conduit 39a provided with a valve 40a to a discharge conduit 41 for the purified residual gas and , on the other hand , via a conduit 42a provided with a valve 43a to a conduit 44 extending the delivery orifice of the blower 36 . the conduit 44 passes through a heater 45 and carries a branch 46 which is provided with a valve 47 and short - circuits the heater , and it also comprises a valve 48 situated between the heater and the part of the branch 46 situated upstream of the heater . similarly , the second end 24b of the final catalytic oxidation stage 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b is provided with a conduit 38b which is connected , on the one hand , via a conduit 39b provided with a valve 40b to the said conduit 41 for discharging the purified residual gas and , on the other hand , via a conduit 42b provided with a valve 43b to the conduit 44 between the branch 46 and the conduit 42a . an air delivery conduit 49 is connected , via a conduit 50 provided with a controllable - opening valve 51 , to the conduit 14 , connected to the conduit 16 through the heat exchanger 15 , for injecting air into the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a and into the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b . the air delivery conduit 49 additionally carries a branch connection 52a connected via a conduit 53a , provided with a controllable - opening valve . 54a , to the conduit 26a upstream of the heat exchanger 27a , for injecting air into the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a , the said branch connection 52a also being connected via a conduit 55a , provided with a controllable - opening valve 56a , to the conduit 28a upstream of the heat exchanger 29a , for injecting air into the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a . the conduit 49 also carries a branch connection 52b connected via a conduit 53b , provided with a controllable - opening valve 54b , to the conduit 26b upstream of the heat exchanger 27b , for injecting air into the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b , the said branch connection 52b also being connected via a conduit 55b , provided with an controllable - opening valve 56b , to the conduit 28b upstream of the heat exchanger 29b , for injecting air into the final catalytic oxidation stage 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b . a temperature controller 57a , whose sensitive element is placed in the end 18a of the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a , and a temperature controller 57b whose sensitive element is placed in the end 18b of the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b provide the control of the opening of the valve 51 fitted in the conduit 50 , which makes it possible to adjust the flow rate of air introduced into the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a or the initial stage 3b and thus the maintaining of the temperature at the exit of these stages at the chosen value . a temperature controller 58a whose sensitive element is placed in the end 21a of the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a provides the control of the opening of the valve 54a placed in the air injection conduit 53a , to maintain the temperature at the exit of the intermediate stage at the required value . similarly a temperature controller 58b whose sensitive element is placed in the end 21b of the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b provides the control of the opening of the valve 54b placed in the air injection conduit 53b , to maintain the temperature at the exit of the intermediate stage at the appropriate value . an oxygen content regulator 59 is fitted in the discharge conduit 41 for the purified residual gas downstream of the conduits 39a and 39b and controls the opening of the valve 56a fitted in the conduit 55a for injecting air into the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a or else the opening of the valve 56b fitted in the conduit 55b for injecting air into the final catalytic oxidation stage 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b , which provides the adjustment of the flow rate of excess air introduced into the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a or the final stage 5b . a temperature controller 60a whose sensitive element is placed in the end 24a of the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a , and a temperature controller 60b whose sensitive element is placed in the end 24b of the final catalytic oxidation stage 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b , make it possible to maintain the temperature in the final stage 5a or the final stage 5b at the required value . the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a , as well as the final catalytic oxidation stage 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b , may be equipped with a system for maintaining the temperature of the catalyst bed , it being possible for the system to be of any known type and to consist , for example , of a coil which is placed within the catalyst bed present in the said final stage and through which passes a fluid at an appropriate temperature . a balancing conduit 61 provided with a valve 62 connects the conduit 16 , at a point in this latter conduit situated between the heat exchanger 15 and the junction of the conduit 16 and of the conduit 31a , to the conduit 35 , at a point in this conduit 35 situated between the blower 36 and the sulphur condenser 37 , while a purge conduit 63 provided - with a valve 64 connects the conduit 44 , at a point in the latter situated between the blower 36 and the heater 45 , to the conduit 9 at a point in the latter situated upstream of the heat exchanger 10 . the operation of the plant described above can be outlined simply as follows . it is assumed that the catalytic oxidation unit 2a is in a reaction phase and that the catalytic oxidation unit 2b is in a regeneration phase , the valves 32a , 40a , 34b , 43b , 54a , 56a and 48 being open , whereas the valves 34a , 43a , 32b , 40b , 54b , 56b and 47 are closed , the balancing , 62 , and purging valves being open . the residual gas delivered from the sulphur plant via the conduit 9 passes through the heat exchanger 10 and then passes through the burner 11 , in which it is mixed with the combustion gases produced by this burner , which performs a combustion of fuel gas , delivered via the pipe 12 , by means of air , delivered via the pipe 13 , while operating below stoichiometry to provide , in addition to the heat energy , an appropriate quantity of h 2 and of co . as it passes through the burner 11 , the residual gas is heated by the combustion gases to the temperature required for the hydrogenation and the hydrolysis , for example 200 ° c . to 400 ° c . and , at the same time it also receives the hydrogen and the co produced during the combustion . the hot mixture of residual gas and of combustion gases , originating from the burner 11 , flows into the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor 1 containing an appropriate quantity of a catalyst capable of promoting the hydrogenation of so 2 and of elemental sulphur to h 2 s , as well as the hydrolysis of the compounds cos and cs 2 to h 2 s , the catalyst being , for example , based on cobalt and molybdenum . in the reactor 1 the sulphur compounds other than h 2 s which are present in the residual gas are converted virtually completely to h 2 s . the gaseous effluent leaving , via the conduit 14 , the reactor 1 , the temperature of which is of the order of 280 ° c . to 450 ° c ., then flows into the heat exchanger 10 , where it heats the residual gas flowing via the conduit 9 and then has added to it an initial quantity of air via the conduit 50 , through the controllable - opening valve 51 , and the mixture thus formed is cooled in the heat exchanger 15 to obtain , at the exit of the exchanger 15 , a cooled initial reaction gas mixture the temperature of which is in the range 80 ° c . - 100 ° c . the said initial gaseous reaction mixture is introduced , via the conduit 16 and the conduits 31a and 30a , into the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a . in this initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a a fraction of h 2 s of the initial gaseous reaction mixture entering the stage is selectively oxidized to sulphur by the air present in this reaction mixture , in contact with the oxidation catalyst present in this stage , the sulphur formed being deposited on the catalyst . the oxidation is carried out adiabatically with adjustment of the quantity of air delivered to the initial stage 3a , the adjustment being provided by the temperature controller 57a actuating the valve 51 , with the result that the temperature of the gas mixture resulting from the oxidation is maintained at a value at most equal to the maximum temperature θs above which the oxidation catalyst no longer has the required selectivity for sulphur . the gas mixture originating from the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a , via the conduit 26a , has added to it , upstream of the heat exchanger 27a , an intermediate quantity of air , delivered via the conduit 53a through the controllable - opening valve 54a , to constitute an intermediate reaction mixture which , after cooling to a temperature in the range 80 ° c . - 100 ° c . in the heat exchanger 27a , is introduced into the intermediate stage 4a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a . in this intermediate stage 4a a fraction of the h 2 s still present in the intermediate gaseous reaction mixture entering the intermediate stage is oxidized selectively to sulphur by the air present in this intermediate reaction mixture , in contact with the oxidation catalyst present in this stage , the sulphur formed being deposited on the catalyst . the oxidation is carried out adiabatically with adjustment of the quantity of air delivered to the intermediate stage 4a , the adjustment being provided by the temperature controller 58a actuating the valve 54a with the result that the temperature of the gas mixture resulting from the oxidation is maintained at a value at most equal to the maximum temperature θs , above which the oxidation catalyst no longer has the required selectivity for sulphur . the gas mixture originating from the intermediate catalytic oxidation stage 4a , via the conduit 28a , has added to it , upstream of the heat exchanger 29a , a final quantity of excess air delivered via the conduit 55a through the controllable - opening valve 56a , to constitute a final reaction mixture which , after cooling to a temperature in the range 80 ° c . - 100 ° c . in the heat exchanger 29a , is introduced into the final stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a . in this final stage 5a all of the h 2 s present in the final gaseous reaction mixture entering the said stage is selectively oxidized to sulphur by the excess air present in this reaction mixture , in contact with the oxidation catalyst present in this stage , the sulphur formed being deposited on the catalyst . the excess of air delivered to the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a is chosen so as to ensure a total removal of the h 2 s present in the reaction gas mixture flowing into the final stage without formation of so 2 in contact with the sulphur formed by the reaction and deposited on the catalyst . the control of the excess of air is provided by the oxygen content regulator 59 fitted in the conduit 41 for discharging the purified residual gas and actuating the valve 56a . the temperature in the final stage 5a is at most equal to θs without , however , exceeding 150 ° if θs were higher than this temperature . the maintaining of the oxidation temperature in the final stage 5a can be ensured by the temperature controller 60a . if need be , in order to make it easier to maintain the oxidation temperature in the final stage 5a , the catalyst bed present in this stage may be cooled by indirect heat exchange with a cold fluid circulating , for example , in a conduit within the catalyst bed or by any other known method . a virtually totally purified residual gas leaves via the conduit 38a and is directed , via the conduit 39a through the valve 40a , into the discharge conduit 41 for the purified residual gas . a stream of nonoxidizing purging gas is delivered by the blower 36 into the conduit 44 through the valve 48 and the heater 45 , in which this gas stream is heated to the appropriate temperature for regeneration . the heated gas stream travelling in the conduit 44 is introduced into the catalytic oxidation unit 2b via the conduit 42b , through the valve 43b and the conduit 38b , and purges first of all the sulphur - laden oxidation catalyst 25b present in the stage 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b and then , after flowing via the conduit 28b , it purges the sulphur - laden oxidation catalyst 22b present in the stage 4b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b and finally , after flowing via the conduit 26b , it purges the sulphur - laden oxidation catalyst 19b of the stage 3b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b . the stream of purging gas carrying away the vaporized sulphur leaves the catalytic oxidation unit 2b via the conduit 30b and flows via the conduit 33b , through the valve 34b , as far as the sulphur condenser 37 , in which most of the sulphur is separated off by condensation . at the exit of the condenser 37 the stream of purging gas is picked up again by the blower 36 , to be delivered into the conduit 44 as indicated above . after a sufficient period of purging of the catalysts present in the catalytic oxidation unit 2b by the purging gas flowing in the heater 45 , in order to remove completely the sulphur deposited on the catalysts , the valve 47 is opened and the valve 48 is closed so as to short - circuit the heater 45 and to lower the temperature of the purging gas , and the purging is continued for an appropriate period in order to cool the regenerated catalysts 19b , 22b and 25b which are present in the catalytic oxidation stages 3b , 4b and 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b . when the catalysts have been cooled to a suitable temperature enabling them to be employed again in a reaction phase , the functions of the catalytic oxidation units 2a and 2b are switched , that is to say that the catalytic oxidation unit 2b is brought into a catalytic oxidation phase and the catalytic oxidation unit 2a into a regeneration / cooling phase by closing the valves 32a , 40a , 34b , 43b , 47 , 54a and 56a and by opening the valves 34a , 43a , 32b , 40b , 48 , 54b and 56b . during the transient period of changeover of the functions of the catalytic oxidation units 2a and 2b the purging gas is circulated in a conduit , not shown , bypassing these units . to complete the description of the treatment including the use of the process according to the invention , presented above , a concrete example of the said treatment is given below , no limitation being implied . by using a plant similar to that shown diagram - matically in the figure of the appended drawing , and which operates as described above , a residual gas from a sulphur plant which had the following composition , in ______________________________________h . sub . 2 s : 0 . 76 n . sub . 2 : 60 . 10 cos : 0 . 01so . sub . 2 : 0 . 38 h . sub . 2 : 2 . 72 cs . sub . 2 : 0 . 01co . sub . 2 : 2 . 10 co : 0 . 34h . sub . 2 o : 33 . 51 s . sub . 1 : 0 . 07______________________________________ the residual gas originated from a claus sulphur plant in which the controlled oxidation of a sour gas consisting , by volume , of 90 % of h 2 s 5 . 4 % of co 2 , 4 % of water and 0 . 6 % of hydrocarb ons was carried out using air . the recovery yield of the sulphur plant supplying the residual gas subjected to the treatment was 96 . 3 % the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor contained a catalyst promoting both the hydrolysis of the compounds cos and cs 2 to h 2 s and the hydrogenation of so 2 and of sulphur vapour to h 2 s , the catalyst being a catalyst of the cobalt / molybdenum type on alumina support . the three stages of each of the catalytic oxidation units , each containing a catalyst for selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur with oxygen , consisting of an alumina with nickel containing 4 % of nickel by weight , the catalyst being obtained by impregnating an activated alumina with the aid of the quantity of nickel acetate in aqueous solution , followed by drying of the impregnated alumina at 100 ° c . and calcining of the dried product at 300 ° c . for 3 hours . this catalyst had a pore volume of 46 cm 3 per 100 g of catalyst and retained the required selectivity for sulphur up to a θs value of 120 ° c . the contact time of the gases flowing in the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor with the catalyst present in the said reactor was 4 seconds . the contact times of the gases flowing in each of the catalytic oxidation stages of the catalytic oxidation unit operating in a reaction phase with the catalyst present in the stage in question had values of 2 seconds in the case of the initial stage , 3 seconds in the case of the intermediate stage and 5 seconds in the case of the final stage . the residual gas , delivered via the conduit 9 at a flow rate of 192 kmoles / hour and a temperature of approximately 132 ° c ., was heated to approximately 300 ° c . after passing through the indirect heat exchanger 10 and the burner 11 and at this temperature entered the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor 1 . in the reactor 1 the conversion of so 2 , s , cos and cs 2 to h 2 s was practically complete and the gaseous effluent leaving the said reactor 1 was at a temperature of 330 ° c . and contained only h 2 s as sulphur compound in a volume concentration of 1 . 2 %. this gaseous effluent , the flow rate of which was 198 kmol / h , underwent a first cooling by passing through the heat exchanger 10 and then had added to it 2 . 1 kmol / h of air at 40 ° c . via the conduit 50 , and the gaseous mixture thus formed was cooled to 90 ° c . by passing through the heat exchanger 15 , to constitute an initial reaction mixture which was introduced , at the temperature , into the initial catalytic oxidation stage 3a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a via the conduit 16 and then the conduits 31a and 30a . in this initial stage 3a , operating adiabatically , a fraction of the h 2 s was oxidized selectively to sulphur , the sulphur being deposited on the catalyst . the temperature at the exit of the stage reached 120 ° c . and was maintained at this value by the temperature controller 57a actuating the valve 51 to adjust the flow rate of air delivered via the conduit 50 through this valve . the gas mixture originating from the initial stage 3a had added to it 2 . 08 kmol / h of air , via the conduit 53a through the valve 54a , and the mixture thus obtained was cooled to 90 ° c . in the heat exchanger 27a , to form an intermediate reaction mixture which was introduced , at the temperature of 90 ° c ., into the intermediate stage 4a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a . in this intermediate stage 4a , operating adiabatically , a new fraction of the h 2 s was oxidized selectively to sulphur , the sulphur being deposited on the catalyst . the temperature at the exit of the stage reached 120 ° c . and was maintained at this value by the temperature controller 58a actuating the valve 54a to adjust the flow rate of air delivered via the conduit 53a through this valve . the gas mixture originating from the intermediate stage 4a had added to it 2 . 4 kmol / h of air , via the conduit 55a through the valve 56a , and the mixture thus obtained was cooled to 90 ° c . in the heat exchanger 29a , to form a final reaction mixture which was introduced at the temperature of 90 ° c . into the final stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a . the above - mentioned quantity of air represents approximately 1 . 5 times the stoichiometric quantity of air needed for the oxidation to sulphur of the h 2 s present in the final reaction mixture . in this final stage 5a all of the h 2 s present in the final reaction mixture was oxidized to sulphur , the sulphur being deposited on the catalyst . a purified residual gas which was at a temperature of 112 . 5 ° c . and which had an oxygen volume content of 0 . 08 % was discharged via the conduit 38a from the final catalytic oxidation stage 5a of the catalytic oxidation unit 2a and the said purified gas was conveyed via the conduit 39a through the valve 40a into the discharge conduit 41 for the purified residual gas . the excess of air corresponding to the above - mentioned oxygen volume content in the purified residual gas discharged via the conduit 41 is maintained by the oxygen content controller 59 , which actuates the valve 56a to adjust the flow rate of air delivered via the conduit 55a through this valve . the treated residual gas discharged via the conduit 41 now contained only traces , namely less than 200 ppm by volume , of sulphur compounds . the purging gas employed for the regeneration of the sulphur - laden catalysts in the catalytic oxidation stages 3b , 4b and 5b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b in a regeneration / cooling phase , was introduced via the conduit 38b into the catalytic oxidation unit 2b after having been brought to a temperature of between 250 ° c . and 350 ° c . and successively purged the sulphur - laden catalysts in the final stage 5b , in the intermediate stage 4b and in the initial stage 3b of the catalytic oxidation unit 2b . the sulphur - laden purging gas originating from the catalytic oxidation unit 2b in a regeneration phase , via the conduit 30b , then flowed into the sulphur condenser 37 of the regeneration circuit to be cooled therein to approximately 125 ° c . so as to separate off most of the sulphur which it contained , and then it returned to the heater 45 to be employed again for the regeneration . the regenerated catalysts were next cooled by passing through the catalytic oxidation unit 2b containing them the purging gas originating from the sulphur condenser 37 and travelling via the branch 46 short - circuiting the heater 45 . the catalytic oxidation units 2a and 2b operated alternately for 30 hours in a reaction phase and for 30 hours , including 10 hours of cooling , in a regeneration / cooling phase . the sulphur yield of the combined unit comprising the sulphur plant supplying the residual gas to be treated and the plant including the hydrogenation and hydrolysis reactor and the catalytic oxidation units 2a and 2b , each containing three stages of catalyst promoting the selective oxidation of h 2 s to sulphur and operating according to the invention , was higher than 99 . 9 %. | US-86058197-A |
a mobile water heating apparatus for rapidly heating large volumes of water , such as swimming pools , hot tubs , etc ., at multiple sites includes a water heater , a water pump , and a water circuit comprising flexible conduit for direct coupling between the pool of water to be heated and the mobile water heating apparatus . the mobile water heating apparatus is independent of on - site dedicated facilities , provides rapid remote site service for cold weather or emergency situations , and is fully self contained , including energy source for heat generation and power generation for operating the water heating system equipment . | referring to fig1 and 2 , the present invention mobile water heating apparatus 10 is intended for use in raising the temperature of pools of water at remote sites . mobile water heating apparatus 10 includes self - contained water heater 12 , water circulating pump 14 , water circuit 16 , and self - propelled support structure 18 . water heater 12 is a typical permanent type water heater and is mounted on self - propelled support structure 18 for transportability . this enables a permanent type water heater to be used for remote , multiple site use . water circuit 16 has an inlet for receiving pool water and an outlet for discharging heated pool water into the pool of water . water circuit 16 couples water circulating pump 14 with water heater 12 . water pump 14 draws pool water into water circuit 16 at inlet 20 and pumps pool water into and through water heater 12 . the heated pool water exits water heater 12 and is discharged into pool 44 at outlet 22 as shown in fig2 . in this manner , the water temperature of pool 44 is raised to a desired , user - defined setpoint . structure 18 , which may include truck bed platform 46 as shown in fig2 supports water heater 12 , water circulating pump 14 , water circuit 16 , and generator 38 . structure 18 is connected to an apparatus which provides sustained , operator controlled mobilization , such as truck 50 or other motorized vehicle . this enables mobile water heating apparatus 10 to be independently transported to multiple sites for effective and immediate response to particularized needs . air purge pump 24 is disposed in water circuit 16 between inlet 20 and water circulating pump 14 . debris strainer 26 prevents the water heating apparatus from becoming clogged and is disposed in water circuit 16 at inlet 20 in advance of water circulating pump 14 . as shown , inlet 20 is directly coupled to pool 44 . in the alternative , inlet 20 may be coupled to a permanent on - site water heating / circulating apparatus ( not shown ). as shown in fig1 water heater 12 of the present invention consists of multiple water heaters 28 , four of which are shown . water circuit 16 interconnects water heaters 28 in either a serial or parallel manner . water heaters 12 are shown in fig1 piped in a parallel arrangement with valves 30 provided to enable , disable , or divert the flow of pool water circulated through water circuit 16 to water heaters 28 . although shown piped in a parallel arrangement , water heaters 28 may be piped in a serial manner . valves 30 may include ball - type check valves disposed in water circuit 16 to permit unidirectional water flow through water circuit 16 . couplings 32 are placed in water circuit 16 for interconnecting the water heaters . disconnect coupling 34 is disposed in water circuit 16 between water circulating pump 14 and inlet 20 and disconnect coupling 36 is disposed in the water circuit between outlet 22 and water heater 12 . water circuit 16 may at least partially consist of flexible conduit adapted in part to be removed from structure 18 with inlet 20 and outlet 22 positioned in pool 44 . as contemplated , water heater 12 has a heating capacity of between 500 , 000 and 5 , 000 , 000 btus and may consist of a single or multiple permanent type pool water heaters 28 . for effective operation , each permanent type water heater 28 has a heating capacity of approximately between 100 , 000 and 5 , 000 , 000 btus . the number of heaters 28 and the determination of water heating capacity relates directly to the volume of water to be heated and the rate at which the pool water is to be heated . the water heating apparatus shall generally have sufficient heating capacity to raise approximately 3 , 800 gallons of pool water 25 degrees f in approximately one hour . in one embodiment , generator 38 is a gasoline driven device having a gasoline storage tank . during operation , generator 38 converts the stored energy source , gasoline , and produces electricity which is used to power water circulating pump 14 , air purge pump 24 , water heater 12 , exhaust fan 42 , and any other electric accessories . exhaust fan 42 effects heat removal and / or the removal of products of combustion . electric power is distributed to the electric accessories via breaker panel 58 . electric usage meter 60 monitors generator 38 operation and meter 62 monitors heater operation . a separate energy source storage tank 40 may be provided for storing a stored energy source for supply to water heater 12 making mobile water heating apparatus 10 self - contained and wholly independent of on - site energy resources . examples of the types of energy sources which may be stored in energy source storage tank 40 are # 2 heating oil , natural gas , petroleum , propane , and butane . in an alternative embodiment , batteries may be utilized in place of or in addition to storage tank 40 to supply electrical power to water heating apparatus 10 . fig2 illustrates mobile water heating apparatus 10 , after being self - transported to a desired location , coupled to swimming pool 44 . in this embodiment , support structure 18 comprises truck bed platform 46 , enclosure or housing 48 , and truck 50 . in the alternative , heating apparatus 10 may be supported by an open truck bed or by a trailer connectable to truck 50 . inlet hose 52 couples heating apparatus 10 with pool 44 . valve 64 is provided to effect desired pool water flow . pool water is drawn in through inlet hose 52 by pump 14 as described above . after being heated , the heated pool water exits water heating apparatus 10 through outlet hose 54 at outlet 22 and is returned to pool 44 . hoses 52 and 54 may be connected to an on - site pool water circulating circuit , such as plumbing in a pool house , rather than directly to the pool . hoses 52 and 54 may be made of flexible material to facilitate operation by permitting the hoses to be directed around obstacles to reach hard to get to pool locations . air purge pump 24 and associated valves and couplings may be removed from truck 50 for the purpose of placing such devices closer to pool 44 . a sufficient supply of outside air is communicated inside of housing 48 for proper operation of water heaters 28 via a louver , opening , intake fan , or other such device . exhaust ports 56 may be provided over each water heater 28 for exhausting products of combustion outside of truck housing 48 . in the preferred embodiment , generator 38 is a gasoline driven winco high performance series generator , model no . hpm6000he / m , capable of generating 5500 continuous watts and rated at 11 hp , or the equivalent . primary water circulating pump 14 is an american machine & amp ; tool company , inc . pump rated at 2 hp , having model no . 2828 - 95 code rm , or the equivalent . purge pump 24 is an american machine & amp ; tool company , inc . 1 / 2 hp pump , having model no . 2827 - 95 code rm or the equivalent . heating apparatus 10 consists of four individual heating units 28 , each of which is a teledyne laars xl - 2 oil - fired pool heater , model no . dp - 350 having a capacity of 350 , 000 btus per hour and having a heat source of # 2 heating oil . truck 50 is a ford e350 one ton truck and housing 48 is a supreme corp . 14 ft . iner - city van ( box ). exhaust fan 42 is a dayton - direct drive two speed 1 / 4 hp . 115 volt fan . breaker panel 58 is a square d 100 amp breaker panel . hourly usage meters 60 and 62 are cramer hour meters or the equivalent . disconnect couplings 34 and 36 are used in arranging water circuit 16 as desired . hayward 1 1 / 2 &# 34 ; and 2 &# 34 ; pvc valves or the equivalent are used to enable , disable , or divert water flow in circuit 16 as desired . energy storage tanks 40 are 100 gal . external fuel oil tanks . according to the present invention , truck 50 is driven to a selected site which contains permanent pool 44 . flexible hoses 52 and 54 are uncoiled from within housing 48 and are placed in pool 44 with inlet 20 and outlet 22 being disposed directly in communication with the pool water . air purge pump 24 is removed from within housing 48 and placed adjacent pool 44 and purges air from incoming pool water along hose 52 . only after air purge pump 24 has purged air from water circuit 16 will primary water circulating pump 14 be allowed to run . after air is purged from circuit 16 , purge pump 24 is deactivated and primary circulating pump 14 is activated . primary circulating pump 14 draws pool water into hose 52 at inlet 20 and circulates water throughout water circuit 16 . the activation and sequencing of air purge pump 24 and primary circulating pump 14 can be accomplished by manual operation or by automatic means . pool water is circulated through water heaters 28 via water circuit 16 . water heaters 28 utilize electric resistance heating , oil or gas burners , or equivalent heating apparatus to raise the pool water circulated therethrough according to a predetermined set point . water heaters 28 may operate according to an internal thermostat or according to a primary thermostat located at the output of heating section 12 . the internal thermostats activate the particular heating device in heaters 28 to individually maintain a setpoint . a primary thermostat may activate the heating devices of multiple water heaters 28 in a pre - set sequence or in combination . once heated , the pool water exits heating section 12 along return hose 54 and is returned to pool 44 at outlet 22 . during water heater operation products of combustion are removed from housing 48 at ports 56 . while this invention has been described as having a preferred design , the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure . this application is therefore intended to cover any variations , uses , or adaptations of the invention using its general principles . further , this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims . | US-58892496-A |
a method of joining multiple powder metal components to form a powder metal component assembly using an adhesive is disclosed . by machining at least one of the powder metal components prior to the adhesive joining , otherwise difficult to machine features can be more easily machined for less cost and at higher production rates . unlike high temperature joining techniques , the adhesive joins the powder metal components at room temperature . this room temperature adhesive joining eliminates the thermal distortions in pre - joined machined features common to high temperature joining techniques such as brazing or welding that bring these features out of specification during joining . | referring first to fig1 - 2 , a blank adaptor 10 and a rotor 12 are shown that can be adhesively joined to one another to form a rotor assembly 14 which undergoes finishing operations to form a finished rotor assembly . the adaptor 10 and the rotor 12 are both formed using powder metallurgical processes . typically , this includes uniaxially compacting a powder metal and binder material in a tool and die set to form a powder metal preform and then sintering the powder metal preform to form a sintered part . other steps known to those skilled in the art may also be used during this forming process including , but not limited to , burning off some of the binder material prior to sintering to reduce carbon content , forging the sintered part , coining the sintered part , heat treating the sintered part , and the like . the hole 58 , made up of holes 58 a and 58 b would typically not be formed during compaction or sintering , but would typically be drilled either after sintering or after both parts are assembled together , but the holes 58 a and 58 b are illustrated in fig1 - 4 for clarity and ease of description . referring now to fig1 - 4 , the details of the blank adaptor 10 are shown . the blank adaptor 10 has a generally cylindrical body 18 with an axially - extending through hole 20 having a radially inward facing surface 21 or inner diameter . on a mating end 22 that mates with the rotor 12 , the blank adaptor 10 has a plurality of radially outward facing interface surfaces 24 and recesses 26 formed therebetween . the recesses 26 are radially offset from the radially outward facing interface surfaces 24 . the details of the rotor 12 are also shown in fig1 - 4 . the rotor 12 has a generally cylindrical body 28 extending from a first flat surface 30 to a second flat surface 32 . the first flat surface 30 and the second flat surface 32 are essentially parallel to one another and are both perpendicular to an axis of rotation a - a . angularly spaced about a radially outward facing surface 34 of the body 28 , a plurality of teeth 36 are formed . the body 28 also has an axially - extending through hole 38 with a portion for mating with the mating end 22 of the blank adaptor 10 and with a portion for defining a segment of the through hole after the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 are joined and finished . a ledge 40 that extends perpendicular to the axis of rotation a - a separates these two portions . on one side of the ledge 40 , the portion of the axially - extending through hole 38 for mating with the mating end 22 of the blank adaptor 10 has a plurality of radially inward facing interface surfaces 42 with a plurality of recesses 44 formed therebetween . the plurality of recesses 44 are radially offset from the plurality of interface surfaces 42 . on the other side of the ledge 40 , a radially inward facing surface 46 defines a through hole 48 which , after the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 are adhesively bonded and joined , will be turned to form a portion of the finished through hole 56 . the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 are joined in the manner outlined in fig5 to form the unfinished rotor assembly 14 and then , after step 118 , the finished rotor assembly . the finished rotor assembly would look like the unfinished assembly in fig3 and 4 , except the surfaces that are finished after assembly , like the id of the bore , would be machined . first , the blank adaptor 10 and the rotor 12 are separately compacted in a compaction step 110 and are separately sintered in a sintering step 112 to form the components shown separated in fig1 and 2 , respectively . next , the first flat surface 30 and the second flat surface 32 of the rotor 12 are ground in a pre joining machining step 114 prior to joining the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 . in the form shown , the first flat surface 30 and the second flat surface 32 are finished using fine grinding and brush deburring to obtain a total tolerance of less than 15 microns . however , where other types of powder metal components are being joined , the pre - joining machining step 114 may include other types of machining operations known to those skilled in the art . next , in a joining step 116 , the mating portions of the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 are adhesively joined to one another to form a rotor assembly 14 as seen in fig3 and 4 . first , a bead of an adhesive 50 is applied to the radially inward facing interface surfaces 42 of the rotor 12 as shown in fig2 . the mating end 22 of the blank adaptor 10 is then telescopically slid into the mating portion of the axially - extending through hole 38 of the rotor 12 until the blank adaptor 10 abuts or approaches the ledge 40 . during this insertion , the adhesive 50 wets the interface surfaces 42 and 24 between the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 , respectively , such that the adhesive 50 forms a seal between the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 . this seal prevents the leakage of hydraulic fluid at the adhesively joined interface in the finished rotor assembly 16 through the oil feed hole 58 as will be described below in more detail . the adhesive 50 is left to cure at or near room temperature ( e . g ., typically at or below 120 degrees fahrenheit ), preferably without the addition of external heat in addition to ambient , to join or bond the rotor 12 to the blank adaptor 10 . the adhesive 50 could also be applied in a variety of ways other than by the above - described application of a bead to one of the interface surfaces . the adhesive 50 could also be applied to the radially outward facing surfaces 24 of the blank adaptor 10 in addition to , or instead of , applying the adhesive 50 to the radially inward facing interface surfaces 42 of the rotor 12 . further , the adhesive 50 could be spread over the interface surfaces 24 and 42 in a number of other ways including , but not limited to , brushing it on the interface surfaces , spraying it on the interface surfaces , and the like . it is contemplated that the adhesive 50 may in part seep into the pores of the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 to further strengthen the bond between the two components . various types of adhesives may be used . the adhesive 50 is preferably an anaerobic adhesive that does not need to be exposed to oxygen to cure . the adhesive may also be an epoxy that is activated upon the mixing of two or more constituents . however , any adhesive suitable for use with metal could be used to join the components . notably , the use of the adhesive 50 that cures at room temperature ( without the addition of external heat ) as a means of joining the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 does not induce stresses or thermal distortions that would bring the first flat surface 30 or the second flat surface 32 out of an acceptable dimensional range . in contrast , if the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 were joined by brazing , welding , or another high temperature joining process commonly used to join metallic components , then thermal distortions would be highly likely to occur that would bring the flat surfaces 30 and 32 back out of the acceptable range achieved during the pre joining machining . it is contemplated that interlocking features could be formed in the blank adaptor 10 and the rotor 12 along the interface . in one form , these interlocking features are formed where recesses 26 and 44 are located . these interlocking features supplement , but do not replace , the adhesive joining of the components . when the rotor assembly is subjected to high rotational stresses about the axis of rotation a - a during service , such interlocking features may provide an interference that prevents the adaptor from shearing from the rotor along the adhesive interface . in one form as illustrated in fig1 and 2 , one or more radially - extending interlocking ridge and groove sets are formed along the interface to interlock the two components . the adaptor 10 has a ridge 27 that fits closely in one of the recesses 44 . upon telescopically inserting the mating end 22 of the blank adaptor 10 into the axially - extending through hole 38 of the rotor 12 , the ridge 27 formed on the blank adaptor 10 slides into a matching recess 44 formed in the rotor to interlock the components against relative rotation . of course , multiple sets of ridges and grooves could be formed along the interface . further , a first component could have both ridges and grooves formed thereon that interlock with a second component have mating grooves and ridges . although ridges and grooves are described as one example of the interlocking features , it is contemplated that other geometries may be suitable to interlock the components . any geometry in which a portion of a first component interlocks with a portion of a second component to prevent shearing of the components relative to one another under extreme stress is suitable . it is further contemplated that , in some forms , a key could be placed between a recess formed in the first component and a recess formed in the second component to perform the same function as interlocking features . it should be appreciated that the blank adaptor 10 can be inserted into the rotor 12 in a number of ways . however , in a preferred form , the dimensions of the mating portions of the blank adaptor 10 and the rotor 12 will be close enough in size that a press fit is required to snuggly force the blank adaptor 10 and the rotor 12 together . after the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 are adhesively joined to form the unfinished rotor assembly 14 , the unfinished rotor assembly 14 can undergo various post - joining machining operations in a post - joining machining step 118 to form the finished rotor assembly 16 ( fig4 ), which is the adhesively joined assembly after the post joining machining operations . in the form shown , these post - joining machining operations include turning outer diameter of the blank adaptor 10 to form a radially outward facing finished surface 57 and turning the inner diameter of a through hole 56 , which is made up of the combination of the through hole 20 of the blank adaptor 10 and the through hole 48 of the rotor 12 . by turning these diameters after the blank adaptor 10 and the rotor 12 have been adhesively joined , very tight concentricity requirements are virtually guaranteed in the finished rotor assembly 16 . further , post - joining , an oil feed hole 58 , made up of outer hole 58 a in the rotor 12 and inner hole 58 b in the adaptor 10 , can be machined that extends from an outer surface 60 of the finished rotor assembly 16 to the through hole 56 . as the oil feed hole 58 extends through the area of the adhesive interface , the previously mentioned seal formed across the interface by the adhesive 50 is important to ensure that any oil does not leak at the interface between the finished adaptor 52 and the finished rotor 54 . any leakage of oil along at the interface would be detrimental to the performance of the finished rotor assembly 16 . surface 42 includes rib structure 70 which projects above the surrounding parts of surface 42 and includes spaced legs 72 joined at their inner ends by circumferentially extending base rib 76 . hole 58 is between the legs 72 , and the ends of the legs 72 fit between legs 78 and abut against the side of base rib 80 of rib structure 82 that is included as part of each outwardly facing surface 24 and projects from the surrounding parts of surface 24 . when assembled , the hole 58 is surrounded by the rib structures 70 and 82 , and the legs 72 abutting against the side of base rib 80 encloses the hole 58 on four sides to cut off the leak paths around the ends of the ribs 72 . ideally , the sides of the legs 72 also abut against the sides of the legs 78 to further insure against leakage around the ends of the legs 72 . adhesive may be applied as a bead on the surface 42 extending along the edge between the surface 42 and the flat surface 30 from one recess 44 to the next recess 44 . when the adaptor is inserted into the rotor , the adaptor wipes the bead of adhesive inwardly along the surface 42 , including along the axially extending legs 72 to wet the overlapping portions of both surfaces 24 and 42 , behind the leading edge of the adhesive being wiped inwardly along the surface 42 . when insertion reaches the laterally extending base rib 76 , the edge of base rib 76 between legs 72 , which runs laterally relative to the direction of adaptor insertion into the rotor , wipes adhesive upon further rotor insertion and inhibits adhesive from sagging onto ledge 40 . this helps to help retain the adhesive between the surfaces 24 and 42 , especially in the area between the legs 72 , and helps to assure an adequate quantity of adhesive bonding the interface surfaces 24 and 42 . the rib structures 70 and 82 project above the adjacent portions of the respective interface surfaces 42 and 24 so as to create a small interference ( e . g . 90 microns on the diameter ) to a small clearance ( e . g ., 140 microns on the diameter ) between the rib structures and the respective facing surface 24 and 42 . the rib structures make leakage of the hole 58 at the interface between the rotor and the adaptor less likely , and serve to radially locate the rotor and adaptor relative to each other . in addition , they preserve a small clearance between the adjacent surfaces 24 and 42 , that are spaced apart from one another by the rib structures , in which adhesive can reside . this insures that adhesive is not wiped completely clean off the interface surfaces when the parts are assembled , as could occur if there was no clearance between the interface surfaces . also , if there is a clearance between the rib structures and the surfaces they face , adhesive will fill in those spaces as well . the rib structures also reduce the insertion forces necessary to assemble the rotor and the adaptor . for example , if there was interference between the interface surfaces themselves , without rib structures , the insertion forces may be several thousand pounds , whereas with rib structures they can be reduced to 150 - 200 pounds . although the embodiment described above describes the joining of the rotor 12 and the blank adaptor 10 to form a finished rotor assembly 16 , it is contemplated that this method could be used to form any number of powder metal component assemblies formed from a first powder metal component and a second powder metal component . further , it is contemplated that the male / female joining portions could be switched on the components ( e . g ., the rotor could have a portion that extends into the adaptor during joining ). fig6 illustrates an example 100 in which two generally cylindrical parts 102 and 104 are joined by a smaller portion 106 between them . when the surfaces 108 and 110 adjacent to the smaller portion are precision surfaces , or if the spacing between those surfaces must be precise , or if the individual lengths of the parts 102 and 104 must be precise while maintaining the overall length of the entire part , machining presents a challenge . the challenge is exacerbated even further if the smaller portion 106 is non - round . to solve this problem , the invention can be applied and the portions split as shown in fig7 . the parts are made of sintered powder metal and the difficult to machine surfaces 108 and 110 are machined precisely prior to assembly , using ordinary machining such as fine grinding or lapping . the parts can then be joined adhesively according to the invention , and any subsequent machining or finishing processes can be performed . as described above , using the method of adhesive joining components to form a powder metal component assembly offers many distinct benefits over traditional methods of joining multiple powder metal components using high temperature joining methods such as brazing or welding . the powder metal components in the assemblies made from the above - described method will retain their pre joined dimensions much better than those that are made using high temperature joining methods . thus , assemblies can be formed that have complex geometries , but that also meet strict dimensional requirements that would be time consuming and / or costly to achieve in a part that is integrally formed . a preferred embodiment of the invention has been described in considerable detail . many modifications and variations to the preferred embodiment described will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art . therefore , the invention should not be limited to the embodiment described . | US-200913318437-A |
an electrical heating device for an operating fluid tank of a motor vehicle , in particular for a tank for storing aqueous urea solution , having at least one ptc element , that is disposed connecting two electrical conductors , characterized in that the electrical heating device comprises a multitude of ptc elements , of which each is connectively arranged to two electrical conductors , wherein at least one of the electrical conductors is configured as a laminar conductor component and forms a heat conductor for transferring the heat produced in the ptc element to a volume portion of the outside environment of the electrical heating device , which is adjacent to the electrical heating device . | in the single fig1 , a motor vehicle operating fluid tank is identified overall with reference numeral 10 . the tank 10 is shown in longitudinal section in a section plane parallel to the bottom . in the finalized operationally ready state arranged in the motor vehicle , the direction of effect of the force of gravity g runs orthogonally to the section plane and orthogonally to the drawing plane of fig1 . the section plane passes through a lower case of the tank 10 . the observer of fig1 looks thus in the direction of a tank bottom 12 , beyond which , that is , in the direction of the observer of fig1 , an electrical heating device according to the invention identified overall with reference numeral 14 is arranged . the lateral wall 16 , which is intersected by the section plane and extends fundamentally orthogonally to the drawing plane , is represented shaded in fig1 . it is expressly pointed out that fig1 merely shows a roughly schematic representation of a motor vehicle operating fluid tank 10 according to the invention and the heating device 14 accommodated therein . in the interior 18 of the tank 10 is stored an operating fluid for selected extraction therefrom . an aqueous urea solution is preferably conceived thereby as reducing agent in a selective catalytic reduction of the exhaust gas of the motor vehicle . the operating fluid stored in the tank interior 18 can be extracted through an extraction opening 20 in the bottom 12 of the tank by a feed pump , if required supported by a valve for dosing , and fed , for example , to an injection nozzle in the exhaust gas system . the heating device 14 is provided in the tank interior 18 in order to prevent the operating fluid from freezing or in order to keep it fluid in said tank interior . the heating device 14 has a substrate 22 , which is arranged at a distance from the tank bottom 12 and approximately parallel thereto . in the present case , the substrate 22 is formed by a flat rigid plastic plate , whose main plane of extension runs parallel to the drawing plane of fig1 . the substrate 22 has an opening above the extraction opening 20 to ensure the unimpeded flow of operating fluid from the tank interior 18 through the extraction opening 20 . electrical conductors 24 , 26 , 28 and 29 are provided on the fundamentally flat substrate 22 on the side facing away from the tank bottom 12 . the number of electrical connectors can be more or less than the mentioned four conductors . the electrical conductors 24 , 26 , 28 and 29 are arranged side by side in the embodiment shown in fig1 . they extend in the same main extension surface . the ends of the electrical conductors 24 and 26 are guided through the tank wall 16 as contacts 30 and 32 in order to be available on the outside of the tank 10 for contact with an electric current supply . the electrical conductors 24 and 26 consequently comprise the main power supply of the electrical heating device 14 , since the latter can be directly connected to an electric current source via its contacts 30 and 32 . three — but there also can be more or less — ptc elements 34 , 36 and 38 , which are provided in the parallel connection between the electrical conductors 24 and 26 , are arranged between the electrical conductors 24 and 26 in the example shown . the electrical conductors 24 and 26 are shaped as a laminar structure in order to conduct , as heat conductors , the heat produced as a result of the current flow in the ptc elements 34 , 36 and 38 into the surface of the heating device 14 and transfer it from there over a large surface to the tank interior 18 and the reducing agent contained therein . further ptc elements 40 , 42 and 44 are overall connected in parallel to the first - mentioned ptc elements 34 , 36 and 38 , but are electrically connected in series to each other , wherein the electrical conductor 29 is arranged between the ptc elements 40 and 42 , and the electrical conductor 29 is arranged between the ptc elements 42 and 44 . both electrical conductors 28 and 29 are configured in turn as laminar conductors , that is , their material thickness is considerably smaller than their measurement in the direction of the length and / or width , wherein the largest occurring width of an electrical conductor is at least 30 times greater than the thickness of the electrical conductor in the shown embodiment . the direction of the thickness of the flat electrical conductors 24 , 26 , 28 and 29 runs orthogonally to the drawing plane of fig1 . the thickness of the electrical conductors 24 , 26 , 28 and 29 is fundamentally spatially constant . the ptc elements 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 , 42 and 44 are preferably adhesively connected by an electrically conducting adhesive to their respectively contacted electrical conductors . the ptc elements of the heating device 14 can be identical , but do not have to be . the ptc elements , which are electrically connected in series to each other , differ from the ptc elements that are connected in parallel to each other . however , the ptc elements that are connected in parallel to each other also do not have to be identical . the ptc elements 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 , 42 and 44 are the selectively hottest spots of the heating device 14 when the contacts 30 and 32 are fed with current in the heating device 14 represented in fig1 , wherein the heat produced therein is dissipated via the laminar electrical conductors 24 , 26 , 28 and 29 and is delivered over the greatest possible surface into the operating fluid held in the tank interior 18 . the heating device 14 can be covered to the observer with a foil or can be overmolded with plastic , so that the electrical conductors and the ptc elements cannot be chemically attacked by the operating fluid . in fig2 is represented roughly schematically in section in a second embodiment of the invention , a heating device 114 according to the invention . components and component portions that are identical and have the same function are identified with the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment , but increased by the number 100 . the second embodiment will be described in the following only with regard to its differences with respect to the first embodiment of fig1 , to whose description reference is expressly made , and also to describe the second embodiment shown in fig2 . the electrical conductors 124 and 126 are not arranged side by side , as in the first embodiment , but one on top of the other , in the second embodiment of fig2 , so that the electrical conductors 124 and 126 preferably extend in preferably mutually parallel but mutually spaced main extension surfaces . the electrical conductors 124 and 126 are connected to each other by a ptc element 134 , whose extension surface is considerably smaller than that of the electrical conductors 124 and 126 . spacers 150 and 152 of insulating material , for example , of electrically insulating plastic , are consequently arranged to prevent an undesirable short circuit of the electrical conductors 124 and 126 at those locations of the spacing gap 153 between the electrical conductors 124 and 126 that are at such a distance to the side of the ptc element 134 that a short circuit is to be feared or basically cannot be ruled out as a result of a deformation of the electrical conductors 124 and 126 with respect to each other . the spacers 150 and 152 are preferably configured with the same thickness as the ptc element 134 . the assembly of electrical conductors 124 and 126 with the intermediately arranged components : ptc element 134 and spacers 150 and 152 , is accommodated between two plastic foils 154 and 156 , which protect the assembly from environmental influences , for example , from a chemical attack of an aqueous urea solution surrounding the heating device 114 . the electrical conductors 124 and 126 arranged one on top of the other can be individually adjacent to further electrical conductors in side by side arrangement or can be adjacent to another assembly of electrical conductors arranged one on top of the other with ptc elements arranged between them in side by side arrangement . | US-201715444844-A |
a support band is disclosed having elastic portions and hook and loop fastener portions for encircling a portion of a wearer &# 39 ; s body . one hook segment is positioned adjacent to the terminating end of the band and another hook segment is positioned intermediate between the starting and terminating ends of the band . one portion of the loops is positioned adjacent the starting end of the band and another portion of the loops is positioned intermediate between the starting and terminating ends of the band . the band forms a tubular support device encircling the body portion wherein the intermediate hook segment engages the starting end portion of the loops after the initial wrap of the band to form an anchor point , and the terminating end hook segment engages an intermediate portion of the loops upon final wrapping of the band , said wrappings being made with the band under tension . | referring to the drawings , numeral 10 represents a support band constructed in accordance with the present invention . band 10 is flexible and is made of woven or knitted fabric , such as nylon or other synthetic yarn , also having elastic yarn . for the embodiment of fig1 - 10 , the band preferably is 2 to 3 inches ( 5 . 08 to 7 . 63 cm ) in width and has a length sufficient to wrap twice around a wearer &# 39 ; s wrist . since the size of a wearer &# 39 ; s wrist varies from person to person , it is envisioned that the band may be constructed of various lengths to accommodate small , medium and large size wrists . thus , for example , a band to accommodate a small size wrist would be approximately 17 inches ( 43 . 18 cm ) in length . these dimensions are purely illustrative and are not to be deemed limitations on the invention . band 10 may be regarded as being formed having a first surface 12 , a second surface 14 , a starting end 16 and a terminating end 18 . a plurality of separate hook segments 20 and 22 are affixed or secured to band surface 12 by stitching 24 or the like . as shown in fig2 , 4 and 6 , hook segment 20 is positioned adjacent to the terminating end 18 of band 10 and hook segment 22 is positioned intermediate between the staring end 16 and the terminating end 18 of the band . the starting end 16 of band 10 is free of such hook segments for reasons that will hereinafter become apparent . a plurality of separate loop segments 26 and 28 are affixed or secured to band surface 14 by stitching 30 or the like . as shown in fig1 , 4 and 6 , loop segment 26 is positioned adjacent to the starting end 16 of band 10 and loop segment 28 is positioned intermediate between the staring end 16 and the terminating end 18 of the band . the portions of band 10 disposed between the hook and loop segments are represented by numeral 34 and are elastic . hook and loop segments 22 and 26 and hook and loop segments 20 and 28 represent , respectively , interengaging hook and loop fasteners for anchoring and then wrapping band 10 in place on a portion of the wearer &# 39 ; s body under tension as hereinafter described . if desired , a third loop segment 32 may be positioned adjacent to the terminating end 18 of band 10 and secured to band surface 14 by stitching 30 . however loop segment 32 is not for engagement with any of the hook segments and is merely to provide additional cushioning , if desired , as shown in fig8 and 9 . the manner of wrapping band 10 on the wearer &# 39 ; s wrist is shown in fig4 - 8 . starting end 16 is placed on the wrist with the first surface 12 facing and in contact with the skin . as such , it will now become apparent that since staring end 16 is not intended to connect with or become anchored to any other member , the placement of hook segments at said starting end 16 is unnecessary and , indeed , would present discomfort to the wearer if they were present . with staring end 16 held in place , either by the wearer &# 39 ; s fingers or by another party assisting in the wrapping ( not shown ), band 10 is tensioned and wrapped to cause the intermediate hook segment 22 to engage the starting end loop segment 26 . this constitutes the first engagement of the hook and loop fastener portions , as shown in fig6 and provides the anchor for further wrapping of band 10 under increased tension . band 10 is now further wrapped to cause the terminating end hook segment 20 to engage the intermediate loop segment 28 . this constitutes the second engagement of the hook and loop fasteners as shown in fig8 . the arrangement is such that band 10 forms a convolute tubular support member , as shown in fig9 with band surface 12 constituting at the starting end 16 the inner and inward facing end of the support member , and band surface 14 constituting at the terminating end 18 the outer and outward facing end of said member . it is contemplated that in wrapping band 10 , the tension in the band should be made greater when the second hook and loop fastener engagement is made then when the first hook and loop fastener engagement is made . this increased tightening of band 10 , which is made possible because of the anchoring effect of the first engagement of the hook and loop fasteners 22 and 26 , permits greater strength or force exerted by the wearer &# 39 ; s muscles due to the restricted motion of the ligaments and tendons . such increased strength is particularly desirable for persons engaged in sporting events , such as tennis , baseball and golf , as well as persons having weak or injured wrists . the tension imparted to band 10 during wrapping should not be so great as to restrict movement of the wrist . that is , the final wrapping should still permit the band to be further tensioned by motion of the wrist , such as when swinging a baseball bat , and then return to a less tensioned state when the wrist is at rest . as is further apparent from the drawings , particularly fig9 the intermediate hook segment 22 and the intermediate loop segment 28 are positioned at least 360 ° from the starting end 16 of band 10 , and the terminating end hook segment 20 is positioned at least 720 ° from the starting end of said band . fig1 shown an alternative embodiment of the band designed by number 10 &# 39 ; wherein in place of separate loop segments 26 , 28 and 32 , there is provided on band surface 14 a plurality of loops 36 extending for the entire length of the band . as such , the various loop segments of fig1 - 9 would now be regarded merely as portions of loops 36 . also , the portions of band 10 &# 39 ; between the starting end 16 and hook segment 22 , and between hook segments 20 and 22 are elastic . in all other aspects , band 10 &# 39 ; of fig1 is constructed the same as band 10 . alternatively , band 10 &# 39 ; may be constructed of an elastic fabric material having the loops 36 as part of the material . fig1 - 18 show another embodiment of the band designated by numeral 40 adapted for use in association with the wearer &# 39 ; s waist . band 40 is constructed of the same material as band 10 but is preferably made having a width of approximately 6 inches ( 15 . 24 cm ). the length of band 40 will vary and will come in various lengths to accommodate small , medium and large size waists . band 40 , similar to band 10 , has a first surface 42 , a second surface 44 , a starting end 46 and a terminating end 48 . a plurality of hook segments 50 and 52 are affixed to band surface 42 by stitching 53 . hook segment 50 is positioned adjacent to the terminating end 48 of band 40 and hook segment 52 is positioned intermediate between the starting end 46 and the terminating end 48 of the band . as was the case with band 10 , the starting end 46 of band 40 is free of such hook segments . a plurality of loops 54 are affixed to band surface 44 by stitching 56 adjacent to the starting end 46 . disposed intermediate between starting end 46 and hook segment 52 , on band surface 44 , is a heat insulating panel 58 made of nonelastic material and having insulating material 60 . panel 58 is sewn in place by stitching 62 and vertically stitched webbing 64 . when band 40 is wrapped in place , panel insulating material 60 is positioned such that is constitutes the inner face of the convolute tubular support device and comes in contact with the lower region of the wearer &# 39 ; s back , as shown in fig1 . panel 58 not only provides added support for the lower back but also prevents the loss of significant body heat from the region where the panel contacts the body . the portions of band 40 to either side of panel 58 , and between the hook segments 50 and 52 , represented by numeral 66 , are elastic . the manner of wrapping band 40 around the wearer &# 39 ; s waist is shown in fig1 - 16 . starting end 46 is placed on the abdomen with the band surface 42 facing and in contact with the body . band 40 is then tensioned and wrapped to cause intermediate hook segment 52 to engage a portion of loops 54 . this constitutes the first engagement of the hook and loop fasteners , as shown in fig1 , and provides the anchor for further wrapping of band 40 under increased tension . band 40 is now further tensioned to cause the terminating end hook segment 50 to engage another portion of loops 54 . this constitutes the second engagement of the hook and loop fasteners as shown in fig1 . as was the case with band 10 , the intermediate hook segment 52 is positioned at least 360 ° from the starting end 46 of the band . it will be appreciated that panel 58 may be constructed without heat insulating qualities , but which nonetheless would be nonelastic to provide added support . fig1 shows an alternative embodiment of the band of fig1 , designated by numeral 40 &# 39 ;, wherein the loops 68 extend from the staring end 46 to the intermediate panel 58 . the portion of band 40 &# 39 ; associated with loops 68 may also be made elastic similar to elastic portion 66 . in all other aspects , band 40 &# 39 ; of fig1 is constructed the same as band 40 . while preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail , it will be readily understood and appreciated that numerous omissions , changes , and additions may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention . | US-41884589-A |
an improved burner for partial oxidation process gas generators is provided which has annular passages formed between coaxially aligned conduits extending from upstream sources to the downstream reaction zone . an outer coolant jacket , internally baffled from optimum coolant flow and sized for minimum downstream area surrounds a recessed and fuel / oxidizer delivery conduit ending in a nozzle . the central delivery conduit is not attached to the coolant jacket and the annular space between them is connected to a high pressure supply of relatively inert gas which can periodically be vented through the annular space to prevent slag build up on the nozzle or coolant jacket . | referring initially to fig1 a burner assembly for use in a partial oxidation reactor according to he concepts of the present invention is shown schematically . the detail of the form of the supply tube 13 of the burner assembly is not important with respect to the present invention . it will be understood that feedstock supply tube 13 may , if desired , be of single annulus , double annulus or triple annulus design as shown in co - assigned u . s . pat . nos . 3 , 528 , 930 ; 3 , 758 , 037 and 4 , 443 , 230 or even more multiple annuli , if desired . for purposes of describing the present invention the feedstock supply line or tube 13 will be taken generically to mean any such design feed tube for supplying feed to a non - catalytic partial oxidation reactor for the manufacture of synthesis gas , fuel gas or reducing gas . the feed may typically comprise a pumpable slurry of solid hydrocarbonaceous fuel ground up into a liquid carrier such as water or liquid hydrocarbon or inorganic solids in a liquid hydrocarbon and a free oxygen containing gas such as air with or without admixture with a temperature moderator . the supply end of the burner assembly of fig1 is referred to as the upstream end and the reaction zone end , or nozzle end of the burner assembly is referred to as the downstream end . the burner assembly of fig1 is shown generally at 10 . the free - oxygen containing gas at operating pressure as desired is supplied via a tubular conduit 12a attached to a flanged connector 12 . similarly , the pumpable slurry feedstock is supplied to the burner assembly 10 via tubular conduit 11a attached to a flanged connection 11 therefor . the hydrocarbon and oxygen feed tubes may be interchanged in a two stream burner without affecting the invention . mixing of these components takes place internally according to feed tube design and the feedstock resulting therefrom enters the generic feedstock supply tube 13 at its upstream end which extends through a flanged connector 17 into the reactor vessel ( not shown ). also exterior to the reactor vessel a coolant supply connector 15 affixed to a coolant supply tube 19 passes through the flanged bulkhead connector 12 . a blast gas supply connector 16 is connected to a high pressure source ( not shown ) of an inert gas ( such as n 2 ) for purposes to be described in more detail subsequently and is supplied to tubular conduit 24 for this purpose . coolant return tube 18 also passes through the flanged bulkhead connector 17 and terminates in an exterior connector 14 for return of the heated coolant from the interior of the reactor vessel . on the interior side of flanged connector 17 ( to the reactor vessel ) the coolant supply line 19 is helically wound about the exterior of the feedstock supply tube 13 along its length to supply coolant to the downstream burner tip and which is shown in more detail in the schematic cross sectional view of fig2 . it will be recalled that interior to the reactor vessel hot gasses in the temperature range of from 1700 ° f . to 3500 ° f . exist . in order to protect feed lines 13 , 18 , 19 and 24 from attack by condensing acid gas such as hc l in this region , they are all embedded in or potted in a special refractory material or ceramic . in the vicinity of the burner tip assembly shown in fig2 the temperature is in the range of 2300 ° f . to 3000f . depending on the fuel and operating conditions of the unit , flyash , slag or particulate carbon soot can be produced along with the desired products such as h 2 and co . one or more of co 2 , h 2 o , n 2 , a , ch 4 , h 2 s and cos may also be present . as the burner tip is cooled by the flowing coolant in the coolant jacket 21 surrounding the recessed nozzle 20 delivering the feedstream to the reactant zone , deposits of slag or fly - ash can condense thereon . such deposits can build up and disrupt the flow pattern of gasses in the downstream end of the burner thereby disabling the burner . to have the burner tip 20 below the slag sticking point in temperature , the nozzle on tip 20 is recessed axially inwardly by a distance 23 from the outer end 21a of coolant jacket 21 as shown in fig2 . additionally coolant ( water ) 19 flowing through the jacket 21 has its channel depth minimized by use of an internal annular baffle wall 22 disposed as shown . coolant from line 19 enters jacket 21 and flows along the outside surface of jacket 21 because of baffle 22 until it reaches the tip 21a of the cooling jacket 21 . it returns via annulus 22a between the inner wall of jacket 21 to the coolant return conduit 18 . the nozzle 20 of the burner is supplied with a thickened wall portion or flange 25 which tends to keep the feedstock supply conduit 13 and nozzle 20 centered in coolant jacket 21 . periodically , high pressure inert gas , such as n 2 , is supplied via conduit 24 to gas blast passage 24a where it can rush axially along passage 24a to exit into the reaction zone near the nozzle 20 . these blasts of high pressure gas can blow away or blast off any molten slag tending to accumulate near the tip of nozzle 20 or in the passage 24a or to tip area 21a . possible purge gas rates ( depending on burner size ) of 0 - 2000 standard cubic feet per hour ( scfh ) at standard temperature and pressure , preferably in the range of 250 scfh , are used for this purpose . a gas blast frequency of one 0 . 6 second blast every 10 minutes to every one minute can be used . moreover , the gas blast passage 24 between the burner tip on nozzle 20 and the cooling water jacket 21 minimizes the thermal stress on the nozzle 20 and coolant jacket 21 . this leads to less thermal expansion and contraction of the nozzle 20 and the jacket 21 and thus to less metal fatigue from this source . also by retracting the nozzle 20 the radiant heat load from the reaction zone is reduced as the feed spray itself forms a shield . this lowers nozzle 20 temperature and also reduces particulate impacting from the reaction zone onto the nozzle 20 leading to less possible slag buildup on the nozzle 20 or jacket 21 . the retraction distance 23 of nozzle 20 is , of course , a function of nozzle design , tubular diameters , feedstock flow rates , feedstock types , etc . to just short of feedstock spray impacting on cooling jacket 21 . distance 23 could vary , for example , from 0 . 1 inches to 0 . 85 inches with a preferable range from 0 . 3 inches to 0 . 4 inches for typical flow rates of feedstock , feedstock types , nozzle designs and tubular diameters typically in use . a burner of this design has been tested with a particularly dirty feedstock of coal and dirt with 30 % to 40 % of the solid in the feedstock as ash . surprisingly good results were obtained , one burner run of 101 hours and several shorter runs all of which resulted in negligible slag deposits on the burner . previous burner designs run with this feedstock had never exceeded 6 hours in duration without a problem arising due to slag buildup on the burner . in addition to the relatively unobstructed gas blast passage 24a and the nozzle 20 retraction by distance 23 , the preferred burner design of the present invention uses a burner having a minimal surface area 21a tip exposed to the reaction zone along with the previously described superior water flow characteristics of the burner tip . the curvature of the cooling annulus tip 21a maximizes the ratio of cooled surface to incident radiation and thus lowers the temperature of the cooling tip area . the even distribution of coolant within the jacket 21 produced by the annular baffle 22 also allows for thinner metal in the jacket than previous designs . this augments the cooling effect of the moving coolant water as well . all of these features together act to reduce the outer surface temperature of the cooling jacket significantly and thus reduces the probability of molten slag particles sticking to the jacket 21 and forming a deposit . in particular the areas 20 , 21a which are facing the relation zone and would normally be hottest due to incident radiation heating are cooled as much as possible . this ensures that the surface stays below the adhesion temperature of slag particles that might impact these surfaces . also a small continuous purge of nitrogen through channel 24a reduces the diffusion of particle to these surfaces . only a minuscule nitrogen flow which has a negligible impact on burner operation is needed for this purpose . the foregoing description may make other changes and alternatives to the design shown apparent to those of skill in the art . it is the aim of the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit scope of the invention . | US-37652095-A |
devices for cleaning vessels , especially swimming pools , are discussed . the devices may include a non - linear flow path in a gap surrounding an in - line valve . this non - linearity permits lengths of concentric pipes forming the gap to be decreased without sacrificing operational performance of the devices . valves forming parts of the cleaning devices may be diaphragms but shaped , sized , reinforced , or configured differently than existing valves and may have collapsible segments whose interior shape resembles an ellipse in transverse cross - section . co - molding of diaphragms and pipes may occur , and inner and outer cups may be used to fix relative positions of various components of the devices . | illustrated in fig1 is assembly 10 adapted principally for use as part of an automatic swimming pool cleaner 12 ( see fig1 ). included as part of assembly 10 are valve 14 , inner pipe 18 , outer pipe 22 , inner cup 26 and outer cup 30 . valve 14 includes inlet 34 , flow passage 38 therethrough , and outlet 42 , the latter communicating with inlet 46 of inner pipe 18 . together , flow passage 38 and inner pipe 18 define a main fluid flow path through the associated automatic pool cleaner 12 . in this respect valve 14 may be said to be “ in - line ,” as its flow passage 38 forms part of the main flow path of the cleaner . as shown in fig1 , valve 14 may be connected to inner pipe 18 to ensure fluid communication between valve outlet 42 and inlet 46 of the inner pipe 18 . near outlet 42 , valve 14 also may be connected to inner cup 26 . while denominated a “ cup ,” inner cup 26 is in the form of a vessel open at both ends 47 and 48 , instead comprising generally cylindrical wall 50 tapering to shoulder 54 . inner pipe 18 and part of valve 14 may thus pass through opening 58 ( fig2 ) defined by shoulder 54 before being engaged by shoulder 54 near valve outlet 42 . fig3 illustrates the result of this engagement , in which the tapering of inner cup 26 helps clamp together valve 14 and inner pipe 18 . also depicted in fig1 - 3 are longitudinally - oriented spacers 62 protruding from exterior surface 66 of inner cup 26 . in at least one embodiment of assembly 10 , three spacers 62 are positioned approximately one hundred twenty degrees apart around the circumference of wall 50 . fewer or greater spacers 62 may be used instead , however , and such spacers 62 may be positioned or oriented other than as shown in fig1 - 3 . each spacer 62 advantageously includes serrations 70 in an area proximate shoulder 54 and end 48 . near valve inlet 34 , valve 14 may be connected to outer cup 30 which , like inner cup 26 , is in the form of a vessel open at its ends . outer cup 30 , as illustrated in fig4 - 5 , is designed to fit over portions of wall 50 , with circumferentially - spaced , serrated slots 74 receiving serrations 70 of spacers 62 . this approach permits some initial ( or subsequent ) adjustment of the position of inner cup 26 relative to outer cup 30 upon application of sufficient force to slide spacers 62 along slots 74 , while maintaining the relative positions of inner and outer cups 26 and 30 absent application of this force . fig5 illustrates the result of slots 74 having received spacers 62 , while both fig4 - 5 indicate that exterior surface 78 of outer cup 30 also may be threaded so as to include threads 82 . outer pipe 22 , finally , may be fitted over inner pipe 18 . when outer pipe 22 is so fitted , its internal threads 86 engage threads 82 of outer cup 30 so as to connect outer pipe 22 to outer pipe 30 . an inner tapered portion interfaces with surface 78 , thereby collapsing it inward and causing serrated slots 74 to decrease in width and pinch tightly onto serrations 70 of spacers 62 so as to prevent further axial movement between inner cup 26 and outer cup 30 . the result , as depicted in fig1 , is assembly 10 , with relative positions of each of valve 14 , inner pipe 18 , outer pipe 22 , inner cup 26 , and outer cup 30 fixed . an automatic pool cleaner 12 utilizing assembly 10 may , like those of the stoltz and kallenbach patents , include a body 32 defining one or more fluid inlets 33 and to which a flexible disc d is directly or indirectly attached . typically , fluid such as swimming pool water with entrained debris will be sucked into the cleaner through the fluid inlets . thereafter , the debris - laden water will follow main fluid path f into inlet 34 of valve 14 , through passageway 38 to outlet 42 , into inlet 38 of inner pipe 18 , and then through pipe 18 into a flexible hose . formed , however , within assembly 10 is chamber 90 surrounding valve 14 . chamber 90 acts in some respects as a reservoir , being filled with water through immersion in a swimming pool of the hose to which assembly 10 is connected . such filling occurs by water flowing into the hose , through annular gap g 1 between inner and outer pipes 18 and 22 , through annular gap g 2 between inner and outer cups 26 and 30 , and thence into chamber 90 . to facilitate priming of assembly 10 , inner cup 26 may include one or more breather holes 92 to allow rapid evacuation of any air trapped in chamber 90 when initially immersed in water . as the pump to which the hose is connected commences evacuating assembly 10 , at least some water within chamber 90 is sucked back into gaps g 1 and g 2 , which may constitute part or all of a secondary flow path . this action creates a pressure differential between chamber 90 and passageway 38 adequate to cause valve 14 to expand transversely , opening passageway 38 to allow passage of debris - laden water therethrough . cyclical contraction and expansion of valve 14 thereafter occurs substantially as described in the stoltz and kallenbach patents . whereas the secondary flow paths shown in fig1 of the stoltz patent and fig1 of the kallenbach patent are effectively wholly linear , that of the present invention need not be . instead , the secondary flow path has a substantial change of direction , essentially making a “ u ”- turn of approximately one hundred eighty degrees around lip 94 of wall 50 ( as shown by the two - headed arrow in fig1 ). because wall 50 is cylindrical ( and therefore lip 94 is circular ), furthermore , this change of direction occurs throughout the three hundred sixty degrees spanned by the wall 50 and lip 94 . accordingly , when valve 14 is in a collapsed condition , water or other fluid flowing from chamber 90 thus may travel downward in the depiction of fig1 , turn about lip 94 , and then may flow upward in the depiction through gap g 2 essentially parallel to its original direction of travel . thereafter the fluid may make a slight turn within area x identifying the intersection of gaps g 1 and g 2 and resume a course of travel through gap g 1 again essentially parallel to the prior portions of the travel path . when valve 14 is in its open state , water flows back into chamber 90 , again changing direction when encountering lip 94 . thus , if chamber 90 were the same size as the corresponding chambers of the stoltz and kallenbach patents , by the time any particular portion of a water stream would have exited chamber 90 and travelled the length of gap g 2 , it would have travelled a significantly greater distance than to the corresponding points of the cleaners of the stoltz and kallenbach patents . preferably instead , the non - linear secondary flow path of the invention permits chamber 90 to be substantially smaller than the corresponding chambers of the stoltz and kallenbach patent while providing an acceptably long secondary path for the water to flow . in use when cleaning the floor of a pool , assembly 10 and both main flow path f and the second flow path through gaps g 1 and g 2 are not typically oriented completely vertically as shown in fig1 , but rather usually are oriented at an angle between thirty and sixty degrees from the vertical ( and often approximately forty - five degrees ). nevertheless , having the non - linear secondary flow path permits decrease in the combined length of outer pipe 22 and chamber 90 . decreasing the length of rigid components of assembly 10 in turn allows for more random movement of the associated pool cleaner , as it reduces the leverage available to the hose that otherwise would tend to steer or lead the cleaner 12 within the pool . although the secondary flow path of fig1 has a non - linearity in the form of a flow reversal , other such non - linearities may be used instead ( or in addition ). for example , the secondary flow path may be helical or spiral in shape in the area surrounding valve 14 . alternatively , it may assume a serpentine shape or include one or more curves or turns other than that shown in fig1 . illustrated in fig6 - 10 is an exemplary valve 14 of the present invention . valve 14 is designed periodically to interrupt ( or at least inhibit or restrict ) the flow of fluid through main flow path f , thereby inducing movement of the associated cleaner 12 . valve 14 preferably , although not necessarily , comprises a generally tubular body made primarily of flexible , elastomeric material . advantageously , valve 14 is a diaphragm molded principally of a thermoplastic elastomer of thirty to forty shore a hardness , although it need not be molded or made of this material . like the valve member described in the kallenbach patent , valve 14 beneficially includes section 98 , intermediate inlet 34 and outlet 42 , that assumes a substantially collapsed condition absent pressure differential between passageway 38 and exterior 102 of the valve 14 . additionally similar to the valve member of the kallenbach patent , section 98 is collapsed transversely . however , unlike the valve member of the kallenbach patent , whose intermediate segment assumes an essentially rectangular transverse cross - sectional shape when collapsed , section 98 may form a substantially elliptical shape in transverse cross - section , with curved rather than straight bounds . this cross - sectional shape of section 98 is well illustrated in fig9 and allows greater flow through passageway 38 when section 98 is collapsed ( thereby reducing clogging of passageway 38 with debris ) without any significant loss of motive power to the cleaner 12 . also unlike the valve member of the kallenbach patent , valve 14 may have an upper section 106 rigidized using a material different from that utilized for the remainder of the valve 14 . depicted especially in fig8 are a plurality of longitudinal ribs 110 made of the more rigid material of which inner pipe 18 is formed . also shown in the figure adjacent valve outlet 42 is band 14 , which may extend about the circumference of upper section 105 and interconnect longitudinal ribs 110 . ribs 110 tend to fan out as section 98 expands ; for this reason and because of their lower modulus of flexibility , any or all of ribs 110 ( and possibly band 114 ) help prevent collapse of upper section 106 when valve 14 is subject to differential internal and external pressures . ribs 110 and band 114 , or any of them , additionally may permit the remainder of valve 14 to be made of material softer ( i . e . less rigid ) than identified in the kallenbach patent . this new composition of valve 14 requires less energy to open ( expand ) section 98 and causes the section 98 to open farther than the intermediate segment of the valve member of the kallenbach patent before returning to its collapsed condition . as noted above , ribs 110 beneficially may be formed of polypropylene or other material different from that from which the remainder of valve 14 is made . such is not absolutely necessary , though . instead , ribs 110 could be made of the same material as the remainder of valve 14 but with , perhaps , a greater thickness . alternatively or additionally , metal or other rigid pins could be placed within or adjacent , or could constitute , ribs 110 . those skilled in the relevant field will recognize that other means for strengthening upper section 106 may also be employed . utilizing this construction additionally allows valve 14 to be substantially shorter than the valve member of the kallenbach patent . a shorter valve 14 complements the fact that chamber 90 may be substantially shorter than the chamber of the kallenbach patent . indeed , some versions of valve 14 may be approximately fifty millimeters shorter than existing commercial diaphragm valves for automatic swimming pool cleaners , with a preferred version of valve 14 having a length of one hundred two millimeters and a width of forty - four millimeters . fig1 , finally , depicts inner pipe 18 co - molded with valve 14 . although preferably formed principally of differing materials , inner pipe 18 and valve 14 nevertheless may if desired be molded simultaneously and in a single mold . such a mold could allow material of inner pipe 18 to flow into link 118 and thence to upper section 106 , forming band 114 and ribs 110 . after the materials of inner pipe 18 and valve 14 are fixed , set , or otherwise hardened into solids , link 118 easily may be removed ( as , for example , by being snapped off at points 122 and 126 ). the foregoing is provided for purposes of illustrating , explaining , and describing exemplary embodiments and certain benefits of the present invention . modifications and adaptations to the illustrated and described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention . | US-2061008-A |
a food display and preservation case comprising at least one support member provided with wheels and brakes . the support member houses heating and refrigeration equipment and control elements . the support member supports a center body or table which includes compartments which may be heated or cooled , as well as a slab which may be cooled and a plate which may be heated . at least one column is disposed on the center body or table and supports a shield screen and light . the case may be used for self - service or buffet - style presentation . | in order to achieve the aims indicated in the above section , the invention consists of a food display and preservation case that includes a central body or table preferably rectangular or hexagonal and with variable dimensions depending on the needs . this table has on its top surface different groups of trays , compartments , plates or the like , where the foods at the desired temperatures are displayed since said groups are connected to electrical resistors or refrigeration systems , depending on whether the foods are to be heated or kept cold . this table or center body is on some preferably cylindrical supports in which the refrigeration units , resistor control panels , light switches and other control elements are housed , therefore the operation of the case is very silent . besides , said supports include some rotatable wheels with brakes that make it easy to move and secure the display case . over the table or center body there are some columns that support some shelves and lighting elements . said shelves are preferably made out of glass or methacrylate with the side edges curved downwards . under the shelves are some lighting elements of the halogen variety when additional heat is to be given to the food and of the flourescent variety when the food is only to be lighted . decorations , plants and other ornamental elements may be placed on the shelves . with this constitution the food display and preservation case serves to serve food to the public rapidly and with a minimum number of employees , since the customers may serve themselves and form two lines around the case . the conditions of hygiene that are achieved with this display case are excellent mainly due to three factors : the first one refers to the support wheels of the case , that define some small feet , whereby the support surface of the case on the floor is very small . the second one refers to the compartments and trays where the food is located . they are manufactured with rounded edges that prevent corners where dirt can accumulate and thus they are easy to clean . the third one refers to the top trays , since the edges thereof curved downward prevent people who approach the case from breathing on the food . hereinafter to provide a better understanding of this specification and forming an integrated part of the same , some figures in which the object of the invention has been represented in an illustrative and non - restrictive manner , are attached hereto . fig1 represents a perspective view of a food display and preservation case , according to the present invention . fig2 represents a side schematic view of the food display and preservation case of the present invention . fig3 represents a perspective view of a cold compartment and its connection to a refrigeration unit , of those that the food display and preservation case of the invention uses . fig4 represents a perspective view of a hot compartments with its resistors , of those that the food display and preservation case of the invention uses . fig5 represents a perspective exploded view of a granite plate of those used in the food display and preservation case of the present invention . this configuration is valid for cold as well as hot plates , depending on the tube - shaped element and the insulation used . hereinafter a description of an embodiment of the invention making reference to the numbering used in the figures is made . hence , the food display and preservation case of this embodiment has some cylindrical supports ( 1 ) that have middle bases ( 2 ) under which four rotatable wheels ( 3 ) are welded . the number of supports ( 1 ) will depend on the total length of the display case , there being two in the example of fig1 . the bottom end of the supports ( 1 ) has four braking screws ( 4 ) corresponding with the wheels ( 3 ), so that the lowering or raising of these screws ( 4 ) determines a greater or lesser securing of the supports ( 1 ) in the corresponding floor ( 5 .) the middle base ( 2 ) supports the refrigeration equipment ( 6 ) and the control panels ( 7 ) of the thermostats , resistors , switches and other control elements that the case has . these control panels ( 7 ) and refrigeration equipment are accessible by means of a door ( 8 ) existing in each support ( 1 .) welded on the supports ( 1 ) there is a center body or table ( 9 ) whose top surface includes a series of food display and preservation trays , plates and compartments . this table ( 9 ) is comprised of some cross i - beams ( 10 ) camfered at 45 ° on the ends thereof . two longitudinal beams ( 11 ) also with an i - section are welded on these cross beams . from said beams ( 10 ) and ( 11 ) a reversed pyramidic - truncated structure is formed by means of a laminated tube ( 12 ) that serves as a support of the front decoration ( 13 ) and of the top board ( 14 .) over this board ( 14 ) and glued with silicone a counter top ( 15 ) that is normally made of granite is placed . over the counter top ( 15 ) and glued with silicone the above mentioned plates and compartments are housed . in the present embodiment said plates and compartments are grouped in five types which are : hot compartment for plates ( 16 ), cold compartment for salads and appetizers ( 17 ), paella cooker or hot granite plate ( 18 ), hot compartment ( 19 ) and a cold dessert plate ( 20 .) besides , over the counter top and partially covering said compartments and plates , there are some shelves - screen that are comprised of : a stainless steel support or strip ( 21 ) that will be screwed to the counter top ( 15 .) some vertical stainless steel columns ( 22 ) screwed to the strips ( 21 ) and inside of which the feed cables of some lighting elements pass . a semi - circular stainless steel screen support ( 23 ), whose length is variable depending on the area that is to be lighted . a lighting screen ( 24 ) which depending on whether or not heat is to be transmitted , will include halogen or flourescent lights respectively . and a top 6 mm glass or methacrylate shelf with its side edges curved downwards , supported by the columns ( 22 ) and fastened by stainless steel clips . fig3 of this example shows us the configuration of a cold compartment ( 17 ) through which the coil of a refrigeration unit ( 26 ) that will be housed in one of the cylindrical supports ( 1 ), passes . on the other hand , fig4 shows a hot compartment ( 16 ) with the electric resistors ( 27 ) in the bottom thereof . the cold compartment ( 17 ) as well as the hot compartment ( 16 ) include thermostats to adjust the temperature , all of the controls being accessible from the door ( 8 ) of the cylindrical support ( 1 .) in fig5 one can see the arrangement of the elements of a granite plate ( 28 .) the layout can correspond to a hot plate ( 18 ) or a cold plate ( 20 ) in function of the represented elements . hence , it corresponds to a hot plate ( 18 ) when the tube - shaped element ( 29 ) is asbestos . however , when it corresponds to a cold plate ( 20 ), the tube - shaped element ( 29 ) is copper tubing connected to the compressor of the refrigeration equipment and the insulation ( 30 ) is expanded polystyrene . in both cases , the plate ( 31 ) is a stainless steel plate in which the system is housed . | US-48994995-A |
a method of preparing fish food flakes is provided . the method includes the steps of preparing a slurry that incorporates fish meal and flour , applying heat to the slurry in order to dry the slurry into a sheet , adding a solution containing one or more water dispersable nutritional ingredients to the slurry as the slurry is drying such that the slurry has sufficiently cooled in order to prevent degradation of the applied nutritional ingredients , and breaking up the dried slurry after the solution containing the nutritional ingredients has been added in order to form a plurality of fish flakes . | referring in part to fig1 , the inventive method begins with a slurry 11 consisting mainly of at least fish meal and wheat flour , plus a small amount of fish oil , that is pumped along a heated drum . the slurry is about 70 %- 80 % water . the slurry is about 20 %- 30 % solids . as slurry 11 ( which is defined as having between 70 - 80 % moisture ) is pumped along drum 13 , the temperature of the steam injected into the drum is at least 300 ° f ., preferably , 300 °- 350 ° f ., which is cooking / gelatinizing the starches in the slurry ( for binding ) as well as drying the slurry down to a moisture of between 2 - 10 % in order to form a dried flake sheet . at the same time , a liquid nutritional spray solution 15 is sprayed onto the dried flake sheet 19 by means of spray guns 17 ( see fig1 ) 1 - 4 seconds before the dried sheet comes off drum 13 . the dried flake sheet 21 , now sprayed by the liquid nutritional solution 15 , is then broken up by a rotating screw into smaller pieces ( flakes ). the flakes travel along a conveyer and then are passed over a screen ( a piece of equipment called a classifier ) to further reduce the size of the flakes and screen out any undesirable material such as fines or clumps of flake . the resulting fish flakes 31 ( see fig2 ) are then suitable for sale and use . this liquid spray solution includes , in addition to water , some type of natural colorant and vitamin c . the vitamin c should be pulverized to 150 microns or smaller in order not to clog the screen on the spraying equipment ; it is preferred that it is esterified since the esterified vitamin c adds extra protection from the heat used during processing , although the free form of ascorbic acid can be used . attractants ( stimulates sensors of the fish ) and carotenoids may also be added . chart a below identifies the various ingredients that may be included in the spray solution of the inventive system , the weight percent amount of each if included in the spray solution , and the preferred weight percent ranges of each . the colorant of the spray solution is composed of a blend of vegetable and fruit juices . any water dispersable natural or artificial colors can be used . the rovimix or vitamin c ( l - ascorbyl - 2 - polyphosphate ) of the spray solution is preferably an esterified form of vitamin c , but any free form of ascorbic acid ( vitamin c ) can be used . other vitamins and / or minerals can be used in the spray if they are water soluble or dispersable and have a particle size of 150 microns or smaller . betaine in the inventive spray solution acts as an attractant ; a combination of any of the 20 known amino acids can also be used as attractants . carotenoids ( the marigold extract ) in the spray solution of the invention are utilized by the fish to promote and develop color in their fins and scales . examples of carotenoids are beta carotene , canthaxanthin , astaxanthin and lutein . any of these carotenoids can be used in the inventive spray solution . the main carotenoid present in marigold extract is beta carotene . the temperature of the flake sheet when the inventive spray solution is applied is less than 300 ° fahrenheit , preferably between 250 °- 300 ° fahrenheit . the flake sheet will be exposed to this temperature for between 1 - 4 seconds , preferably about 3 seconds , which minimizes vitamin c degradation . the spray solution itself is at room temperature when it is sprayed onto the flakes . the solution is not heated . the temperature of the flake sheet when the spray solution first is applied is sufficient to flash off excess moisture that is being sprayed on by the liquid spray solution ( which is about 70 - 80 % water ) and will prevent or significantly reduce any degradative effects to any heat unstable nutrients ( mainly vitamins , carotenoids and natural colorants ). by the time the flake sheet reaches the rotating screw , it has cooled down in temperature . to first make the slurry , the dry ingredients ( at least fish meal and wheat flour ) are pulverized to a particle size of no greater than 150 microns in order to make a dry type mash . the slurry is made up of the pulverized dry mash ( pulverized through 100 mesh or smaller in order to obtain a consistent and smooth flake ) plus water , a small amount of oil , preferably fish oil , although vegetable oil , such as soybean oil can be used , and perhaps other minor ingredients . chart b below identifies the various ingredients that may be included in the flake slurry of the inventive system , the weight percent amount of each if included in the slurry composition , as well as the preferred weight percent ranges for each . the most significant ingredients , as discussed , are the fish meal , flour and fish oil , as well as water . water , fish meal , wheat flour and fish oil are the four most important ingredients , as previously discussed . it is important to have more or equal amounts of fish meal as compared to wheat flour . one can use more fish meal than wheat flour , but not the other way around . one does not want to use more than twice the amount of fish meal than wheat flour . the weight range of fish meal to wheat flour is in a ratio of between 1 : 1 to 2 : 1 . it is also somewhat important to make sure that there is enough fish oil so that the flakes will not overly dry and will not stick to the drum during preparation . the flake end product typically includes about 100 lbs of spray solution to 500 lbs of flake product ( 1 : 5 ratio ) although a ratio range of 0 . 5 - 1 : 4 . 5 - 5 is suitable . in the process , flake production is around ( 0 . 6 - 1 lbs / min ). thus , spray flow rate is roughly 0 . 15 - 0 . 17 lbs spray solution applied per minute . of significance is the fact that the spray solution is applied to the flake product while in the form of a sheet as it is coming off the drum dryer . the elevated temperature of the flake sheet ( due to the steam in the drum dryer ) at this stage ( no greater than 300 ° f .) is critical in that it is high enough to remove excess moisture applied by the spray solution , but will not cause any significant damage to the vitamin c and carotenoids in the spray solution , which are quite heat unstable . the necessary ingredients of the slurry / flake composition are fish meal , wheat flour and fish oil . the fish oil is an important ingredient in the slurry in order to prevent the flake from sticking to the drum dryer and is also an important attractant and a good source of omega - 3 and omega - 6 fatty acids . the weight percent ranges for each as well as weight percent ranges for the optional ingredients in the slurry / flake composition can be found in chart b . what is required and what is optional in the spray solution is significant . colorant is important in that a speckled flake product is what is desired . vitamin c also is significant since it has previously been difficult to incorporate vitamin c into the flakes without some type of degradation . the spray solution may also be applicable for adding other types of vitamins or additives . the spray solution , in its broader sense , with appropriate weight range limitations for each of its optional and required ingredients , is found at chart a . 1 . when the liquid spray solution first strikes the flake along the drum , the flake sheet has a temperature of between 250 °- 270 ° f . 2 . when the sprayed flake comes off the drum , the flake temperature is between 210 °- 250 ° f . 3 . when the flake is being broken up in the rotating screw , its temperature is between 110 °- 150 ° f . 4 . when the broken up flake first hits the conveyer ( it then travels along the conveyer to be then passed through a screen ), the flake temperature is between 80 °- 100 ° f . the time between when the liquid spray solution first strikes the flake slurry and when the sprayed flake slurry first comes off the drum is about 14 seconds . application of the inventive method creates a unique colored spray pattern on the fish flakes . the inventive fish flakes have attractants sprayed onto the surface which allow fish to sense the food and will eat it very quickly . the quicker the fish eats the food , the less time the flake will be in contact with the water for vitamin c to leach out , the more vitamin c will still be on the flake , the more vitamin c the fish will ingest . this is important because the fish will be attracted to the food quickly and will eat it before a significant amount of vitamin c has leached into the water , thereby getting the required amount in order to maintain a healthy immune system . moreover , while attractants are typically added to fish foods , they are added internally . this invention is different because they are being applied externally . significantly , the liquid spray solution containing vitamin c and other ingredients is applied to the fish flakes while the flakes are in the form of a sheet along a drum . the inventive method enables the application of the appropriate amount of liquid spray solution , which prevents flake breakage , achieves a colored speckled pattern on the produced flake and facilitates the incorporation of vitamins and other ingredients into the fish flakes . because the liquid spray solution is applied to the sheet of flake as it is coming off the heated drum , the temperature of the sheet of flakes will effectively flash off ( evaporate ) the excess moisture that is being applied by the spray solution , and will not cause any significant damage to the heat - unstable vitamin c and carotenoids . in the inventive method , the goal is to achieve a speckled color pattern on the produced fish flakes so that one can visibly see the specks and also see base flake , which is typically tan or blonde in color , between the specks . this provides a visual enhancement to the prospective customer ; if he or she can see the specks , then he or she would likely be convinced that the vitamin c , carotenoids and attractants have been sprayed on to the flakes . because the fish flakes produced by the inventive method are somewhat thin and fragile , air pressure of the spray nozzles needs to be controlled in order to prevent the fish flakes from falling apart . thus , by using the inventive method , the amount of liquid spray solution and the pressure at which the liquid spray solution is being applied can be controlled in order to prevent flake breakage . the following parameters are preferred : all of these parameters in combination are significant to make the system work . pump pressure 90 - 120 psi the pump is used to push the liquid through the system . fluid pressure regulator — 1 . 5 - 5 psi this controls the pressure at which the fluid is circulated through the system . back pressure regulator — 0 psi this controls the return circulated product . it must be lower than the fluid pressure regulator in order for the fluid to recirculate . fluid pressure — 45 - 75 psi air pressure to the spray nozzles — 70 - 90 psi this refers to the amount of air supplied to the spray guns . atomizing pressure 6 - 40 psi this refers to the amount of air pressure pushing the liquid through the spray nozzles . this number is important because it controls the size of the liquid particles which has an effect on the speckled pattern . with the current invention , the amount of vitamin c sprayed onto the fish flake sheet ( along the drum ) is controlled by knowing the usage rate and percentage of vitamin c that is added to the spray solution . the fish food product that is produced delivers more vitamin c than standard flake products , which typically have a vitamin c content in the range of between 90 - 200 mg / kg . the inventive fish food product has a minimum of 500 ppm of vitamin c ( 500 mg / kg of diet ). the following examples are applicable to the inventive system and method . 2 ) add ingredients # 2 -# 11 and mix in a pulverizer for 20 minutes . 4 ) pulverize with a pulverizer , a machine that grinds down the particle size of the ingredients , all materials to 100 mesh or smaller in order to produce the gold fish fines . 1 ) add ½ of the fines of example 1a to between 60 - 70 gallons of water and mix with a homogenizer for 10 minutes . 2 ) add fish oil , lecithin & amp ; xanthan gum and mix for 20 minutes . 3 ) add the rest of the fines slowly to the mixture and mix with a homogenizer for 10 minutes . 4 ) add the vitamin premix to the mixture 5 minutes prior to start up of the flake . 3 ) slowly add in rovimix , betaine and marigold extract to the mix tank and close the lid . mix for 10 minutes . check to see that there are no lumps . 4 ) add in natural red color and mix for 20 minutes . 7 ) when the solution is under the baffle in the mix tank , turn the mix tank speed down to 3 . 8 ) when the solution is under the mixer blade of the mix tank , turn the mix tank off . 1 ) start the spray nozzles of the inventive system , making sure the settings are as indicated below . 2 ) continuously spray the spray solution onto the flakes in a speckled pattern . 2 ) add ingredients # 2 -# 9 and mix in a pulverizer for 20 minutes . 4 ) pulverize with a pulverizer all materials to 100 mesh or smaller in order to produce the tropical fines . 1 ) add ½ of the fines of example 2a to 60 - 70 gallons of water and mix with a homogenizer for 10 minutes . 2 ) add fish oil , lecithin & amp ; xanthan gum and mix with a homogenizer for 20 minutes . 3 ) add the rest of the fines slowly and mix with a homogenizer for 10 minutes . 4 ) add the vitamin premix to the mixture 5 minutes prior to start up of the flake . 1 ) weigh out 8 . 7 gallons of water in a mix tank . 3 ) slowly add in rovimix , betaine and marigold extract to the mix tank and close the lid . mix for 10 minutes . check to see that there are no lumps . 4 ) add in natural blue color and mix for 20 minutes . 5 ) turn the mix tank speed down to 4 as desired . 7 ) when the solution is under the baffle in the mix tank , turn the mix tank speed down to 3 . 8 ) when the solution is under the mixer blade of the mix tank , turn the mix tank off . 1 ) start the spray nozzles of the inventive system , making sure the settings are as identified below . 2 ) continuously spray the spray solution onto the flakes in a speckled pattern . it will thus be seen that the objects set forth above , and those made apparent from the preceding description , are efficiently attained , and since certain changes may be made in the method , system and product set forth above without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention , it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawing shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense . it is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all the generic and specific features of the invention herein described , and all statements of the scope of the invention , which , as a matter of language , might be said to fall therebetween . | US-14885108-A |
a method of forming enclosures for microwave and hybrid devices and the enclosure itself wherein the metals to be joined are thin and / or thick and wherein metallurgical hermetic bonds are provided between adjacent metals which are generally difficult to bond to each other and may be bonded by a select number of bonding processes . | referring first to fig1 there is shown a package 1 for microwave and / or hybrid devices in accordance with the present invention . the package includes a thin base layer of molybdenum 3 onto which is bonded a thick layer of copper 5 having a hollowed out interior section 7 forming side walls 9 in which the microwave and / or hybrid assemblies are mounted . the hollowed out interior section 7 and side walls 9 can extend down to the layer of molybdenum 3 to provide a molybdenum base or be provided with a thin layer of copper 5 over the molybdenum to form the package base . the package is completed by providing terminals 19 extending through the walls and / or bottom which are insulated therefrom and hermetic by using , for example , a glass to metal seal having substantially the same coefficient of thermal expansion as the wall or bottom through which it extends ( brazed eyelets of material such as kovar may be required for certain assemblies ) as well as a top or cover ( not shown ) of a metal which is hermetically sealed to the side walls . the top has a coefficient of thermal expansion substantially the same as that of the side walls and is preferably , but not necessarily , of the same material as the side walls . as a second embodiment , as shown in fig1 the molybdenum base can have a cladding 11 of nickel on the top and bottom surfaces thereof to provide better bondability . referring now to fig2 a and 2b , there is shown in fig2 a a third embodiment of the invention wherein the package is the same as that of fig1 except that the bottom layer 13 is thick and is of copper and the top layer 15 is thin and is of kovar . a hollowed out region 17 extends through the kovar layer 15 and into the copper layer 13 . otherwise , the description of the first embodiment above is the same as that for fig1 . in the fourth embodiment fig2 b the layers are the same as in fig2 a except that the kovar layer is thick and the copper layer is thin . in addition , the hollowed out region 17 can extend up to the surface of the copper layer 13 and need not extend thereinto . it should be understood that packages as shown in fig1 and 2 can be altered to include three or more layers of the same or different metals to provide desired physical properties , the requirement being that adjacent layers be secured together by a metallurgical bond which is hermetic . the package of fig1 is formed by placing a layer of copper and a layer of molybdenum next to each other and spaced with a thin spacer . the packages described above are fabricated by initially placing a thin spacer therebetween and then providing a shock wave such as that produced by standard prior art explosive bonding . the result is that the shock wave travels between the two layer and forces the spacers to travel ahead of the shock wave . meanwhile , as the spacers are removed , the layers come into intimate contact with each other and the surface particles thereof intermingle due to the shock wave then present to provide a metallurgical bond therebetween . this bond is also hermetic . the result is a bar having two distinct layers metallurgically bonded together with an hermetic bond . the bar is then cut up into lengths having the dimensions of the final package to be fabricated and a portion of one of the layers ( the copper layer in fig1 ) is hollowed out by machining to form a cavity wherein the microwave and / or hybrid devices or circuitry will be affixed . in addition , terminals 19 are formed in the side walls by drilling out apertures therein and placing the terminals through the apertures . an appropriate sealant secures the terminals in the apertures and insulated from the side walls , the sealant preferably having the same coefficient of thermal expansion as the side walls . after the microwave and / or hybrid devices or circuits have been secured within the cavity , a top or cover is then attached to the side walls by laser welding , tungsten inert gas ( tig ) welding , etc . to provide a hermetic seal therewith and complete the package . alternatively , prior to cutting up the bar as described above , plural spaced cavities are formed by machining and the bar is then cut up into lengths having the dimensions of the final package to be fabricated . the individual machined lengths then proceed through the same fabrication process steps as described above to provide the final package . the embodiments of fig2 a and 2b can be formed in the same manner is described above with respect to fig1 . though the invention has been described with respect to specific preferred embodiments thereof , many variations and modifications will immediately become apparent to those skilled in the art . it is therefore the intention that the appended claims be interpreted as broadly as possible in view of the prior art to include all such variations and modification . | US-91413192-A |
the present invention provides software for electronically annotating electronic images , such as drawings , photographs , video , etc ., through the drag - and - drop of annotations from a pre - defined , but extendable , list . the annotations are placed at a user - selected x , y location on the image , and stored in a searchable database . thus , they can be searched in order to retrieve , organize , group , or display desired electronic images or collections of such images . the annotations may be text , images , sounds , etc . the invention provides a flexible , easy to learn , rapid , low error rate and satisfying interface for accomplishing such tasks . | the present invention relates to computer software for facilitating the annotation of one or more desired image aspects present in an electronic image and for employing such annotations to facilitate the retrieval , organization , collection , display or distribution of the associated electronic images . as used herein , the term “ computer ” is intended to encompass any electronic device that accepts ( i . e ., store , generate , or process ) image information in electronic form and manipulates such information for a result based upon a sequence of instructions . thus , as used herein , the term computer is intended to encompass not only mainframe , web - based , personal and laptop computers , but also personal digital assistants ( pdas ), digital cameras , televisions , video game systems ( e . g ., playstation2 ®, video storage systems ( e . g ., tivo ®), and telephones , etc . that have the capability of accepting such information . the term “ software ” is intended to refer to a set or sequence that directs the manipulation of information by a computer . the term “ image aspect ” as used herein is intended to refer to an individual , scene , object , event , design , etc . that is depicted in an electronic image . for example , the image aspects of a photograph of people include the depicted individuals ( singly , e . g , “ john doe ,” or collectively , e . g ., “ lecture attendees ”), their location , etc . the term “ electronic image ,” as used herein is intended to include photographs , video , drawings , writings , webpages , paintings , holographic images , cartoons , sketches , renderings , etc . that can be stored electronically . the term “ annotation ” the association of text ( including a textual hyperlink ) to an image aspect of an image , such that the image aspect can be retrieved , collected , displayed or distributed using the annotation . the software of the present invention can optionally display or hide some or all annotations in response to the instructions of a user . fig3 – 8 show the process of annotation of images aspects of electronic images with respect to an electronic photograph of four people at a conference . in fig3 , the initial state of an electronic photographic image is shown , along with a list of names of individuals that have previously been entered into the database due to their presence in other images of the library . in fig4 , the user selects an appropriate name from the presented list , and drags it into the photograph ( fig5 ). the annotation is “ dropped ” into the photograph at a location selected by the user ( fig6 ), thereby causing the software to display the annotated individual as one of the “ people in the photograph .” the process may be repeated to annotate additional people or other image aspects depicted in the image . fig7 shows the annotation of four identified individuals . fig8 shows an attribute of the software of the present invention to permit the “ hiding ” of annotations . in fig3 – 8 , the selection list is shown as being an alphabetically organized scrolling menu , but it could be implemented as a split , or nested menu ( andrew sears and ben shneiderman , “ split menus : effectively using selection frequency to organize menus ”, acm transactions on computer - human interaction 1 , 1 , 27 – 51 , 1994 ). in one embodiment , this would entail having 3 – 5 of the most commonly occurring names in a box , followed by the alphabetical presentation of the full list . thus the most frequent names would be always visible to allow rapid selection . alternatively , the names might be listed in hierarchical lists ( e . g ., family , co - workers , friends , etc .) that when selected would display either the entire set of names in the selected category , or 3 – 5 of the most commonly occurring names in a box , followed by the alphabetical presentation of the full list . name completion strategies for rapid table navigation would be useful in this application . when users mouse down on a name , the dragging begins and a colored box surrounds the name . when users mouse up , the name label is fixed in place , a tone is sounded , and the database entry of the x , y coordinates is stored . the tone gives further feedback and reinforces the sense of accomplishment . further reinforcement for annotation can be given by subtly changing the border or other attribute of the image in an image collection viewer that is capable of showing a representative image of each image for each collection being viewed ( fig1 ). for example , when an image ( e . g ., a photograph ) gets an annotation , the color of its thumbnail &# 39 ; s border can be changed from white to green . users will then be able to see how much they have accomplished and which images are still in need of annotation . also as shown in fig3 – 8 , the user interface of a preferred embodiment of the software of the present invention displays a show / hide checkbox that gives users control over seeing the image with or without the image aspect annotations . since the image is shown in a resizable window , the position of the labels changes upon resizing to make sure they remain over the same person . in a preferred embodiment , a small marker ( e . g ., ten pixels long ) extends from the center of the label to allow precise placement of annotations when there many annotated image aspects are close together . the marker can be used to point , for example , at the head or body of depicted people , and is especially useful in annotating photographs of crowded groups . in an alternative preferred embodiment , an automatic annotation mechanism is employed so that the users can just use a mouse to click , drag and drop to make annotations instead of repetitively typing in text fields . these techniques can be further combined with functionality for annotation of single photographs , groups of selected photographs , or entire collections of photographs . additional preferred embodiments of the software of the present invention include the capacity to resize the labels , change fonts , change colors , or add animations . further embodiments permit collaborative annotation by multiple users working side - by - side ( j . stewart , b . b . bederson , & amp ; a . druin , “ single display groupware : a model for co - present collaboration .”, proceedings of acm chi 99 conference on human factors in computing systems , 286 – 293 , 1999 ) or independently , to annotate images . the multiple annotations could then be combined , with appropriate resolution of conflicts . tools for finding variant spellings or switches between last and first names could be optionally employed to raise data quality and uniformity . a valuable accelerator is bulk annotation ( allan kuchinsky , celine pering , michael l . creech , dennis freeze , bill serra , jacek gwizdka , “ fotofile : a consumer multimedia organization and retrieval system ”, proceedings of acm chi 99 conference on human factors in computing systems , 496 – 503 , 1999 ), in which a group of photographs is selected and then the same label is applied to every photograph with one action , although individual placement might still be needed or desired . of course , annotation by names of people in photographs is only an illustration of the capability of the software of the present invention . drag and drop annotation can be employed in accordance with the methods of the present invention for any kind of object in a photograph ( e . g ., car , house , bicycle , mountain , sunset , etc . ), drawing , project ( e . g ., children &# 39 ; s homework projects ), or painting ( brushstroke , signature , feature ), etc . annotation about the overall image , such as type of photograph ( portrait , group , landscape ), or painting ( impressionist , abstract , portrait ) can be added . the software can be used to indicate the importance or quality of the images ( e . g ., by annotating the images with colored ribbons , multiple star icons , etc .). in detail , the software of the present invention operates using an image library database . in a preferred embodiment , the software of the present invention is preferably implemented using microsoft visual basic 6 . 0 , however , other software ( e . g ., java ) may be used . any database capable of linking tables may be employed . preferably , the image library database is a microsoft ® access ® database that is able to link tables of image files with their associated annotations . in a preferred embodiment , the software of the present invention comprises an image library database that contains five linked tables ( fig2 ). through odbc , the software of the present invention is able to connect to and query the database . the basic concept is that an image library contains “ collections of images ,” and that the images contain annotated image aspects . the various linked tables employed by the present invention are organized in an image library schema . in the image library schema , the “ collections table ” represents the collections of images ( photographs , drawings , etc .) with optionally provided attributes . such attributes may include collection title , description , keywords , starting date , ending date , location , a representative photoid , a unique collectionid , ( either of which may be any set of alphanumeric or keyboard characters ) etc . the “ images table ” is where references ( full path and file name ) of the images and their thumbnails are stored , optionally with important attributes such as the date upon which the photograph was taken ( or image drawn ), event , keywords , location , rating , color , locale , and so on . each image should have a unique reference and images with the same references are preferably not allowed to be stored in this table even though they have different attribute values . the “ linkage table ” is the connection between the “ collections table ” and “ images table ”. it stores the links between collections and images . information about the image aspects ( for example , people , etc .) shown in the images of the image library is stored in an “ image aspects table ”. the attributes included in the image aspects table may comprise , for example , the location of the scene depicted in the image , the name of geographical or political features depicted in the image ( e . g ., the washington monument ; mount whittier ), etc . where the image aspect is a person , the attributes included in the image aspects table may comprise , for example , the depicted person &# 39 ; s given ( or first ) name and family ( or last ) name , a unique personid ( for example a social security number , student id number , corporate employee number , or any set of alphanumeric or keyboard characters , etc .). such a personid is desirable since it will facilitate the retrieval and storage of image aspects relating to people having the same first and last name ( people having the same first and last name are preferably not allowed to be stored in image aspects table ). the image aspects table may optionally be extended to include personal or professional information such as initial impressions , reviews , reactions of others present when the image was made , e - mail addresses for exporting the image library to others , homepage addresses , resumes , occupations and so on . the “ appearance table ” stores the information about which image aspect is in which image . it serves as the linkage between the images table and the image aspects table . possible attributes for this table include appearanceid , personid , photoid , and relative ( x , y ) coordinates ( upper left corner is ( 0 , 0 ), lower right is ( 100 , 100 )) of image aspects in the image . the design of the image library preferably considers three major assumptions concerning the library , its collections , and its images . these assumptions can be classified as follows ( the present invention is illustrated using people depicted in electronic photographs as examples of image aspects of electronic images ): a one - to - many relationship between the collections table and the linkage table is preferably set so that a collection can contain multiple images , and a one - to many relationship between the images table and the linkage table is preferably set so that same image can be included in multiple collections . it is also possible that a collection may contain the same image multiple times to permit its reappearances in a slide or other image presentation . two collections may have exactly same set of images , may have overlapping sets of images , or may have non - overlapping sets of images . if two images have different path names , they are considered to be different images for the purposes of the present invention even though they are copies of one another . a one - to - many relationship between the images table and the appearance table has been set so that an image can contain multiple image aspects ( e . g ., multiple persons ), and a one - to - many relationship between image aspects table and appearance table has been set so that same image aspect can be included in multiple images . multiple appearances of the same image aspect in the same image is not allowed . for image aspects that are people , a composite pair of a given name and a family name should be unique in the image aspect table . within a library , the same image may be contained in multiple collections multiple times , but their attributes and annotations should be the same . the software of the present invention may readily be expanded or altered to include additional or replacement tables , such as a “ people table ” for providing information about depicted people , an “ object table ” for providing information about depicted objects , an “ animals table ” for providing information about depicted animals , a keyword table , and so on , along with connection tables similar to the appearance table . with such an image library database design , even more flexible annotation would be possible . the software of the present invention causes the image library database to be updated whenever the direct annotation module causes any information changes . to illustrate this attribute of software of the present invention , the image library database may be considered as comprising five categories . the corresponding algorithms and implementation issues involved in updating each such category are discussed below with respect to image aspects that are persons and in which the images are photographs . it will , however , be understood that such illustration is relevant to non - photographic images ( such as drawings , sketches , etc .) and to image aspects other than people . fig9 provides a flowchart of a preferred embodiment of the algorithm of the software of the present invention for accomplishing the direct annotation of electronic images . when users drag a name from “ people in library ” listbox and drop it onto a photograph , the software of the present invention checks to determine whether there already exists an appearance connection between the photograph and the person since multiple appearances of the same person in a photograph are not allowed . if a conflict occurs , the software of the present invention signals such to the user ( e . g ., highlighting the existing name label on the photograph ) and ignores the drag - and - drop event with a warning message . if there is no conflict , the software of the present invention finds the personid and photoid , calculates a relative ( x , y ) position ( 0 ≦ x , y ≦ 100 ) of the drag - and - drop point on the photograph , and then creates a new appearance record with this information . after adding a new record to the appearance table , the software of the present invention updates the “ people in this photograph ” listbox and finally creates a name label on the photograph . the software of the present invention signals to the user that the label has just been inserted ( e . g ., the newly added name in the “ people in this photograph ” listbox will be selected , and accordingly the new name label on the photograph will be highlighted , etc .). if the added name label is the first one on the photograph , the software sends an event to the collection viewer to change the border color of the corresponding thumbnail ( for example , to green ) in order to show that the photograph now has an annotation . the algorithm for creating a new person using the software of the present invention is simple . as soon as users type in the first name and last name of a person in the editbox and press enter , the software of the present invention checks to determine whether the name already exists in the people table . if so , a warning message will be displayed with the name in “ people in library ” listbox being selected . if not , the software of the present invention creates and adds a new person record to the people table , and then updates the “ people in library ” listbox , selecting and highlighting the newly added name . when the delete button of the software of the present invention toolbar is clicked or the delete key is pressed , the software checks to determine whether the selected name label already exists . if not , the software of the present invention ignores the deleting action . but if it does exist , the software automatically calculates the personid of the selected name label and the photoid , and it searches through the appearance table to find and delete an appearance record having those ids . the software of the present invention updates “ people in this photograph ” listbox and deletes the name label on the photograph . if the deleted name label was the last one on the photograph , the software of the present invention sends an event to the collection viewer to change the border color of the corresponding thumbnail ( e . g ., to white ), to show that the photograph has no annotation . if the user &# 39 ; s focus is on the “ people in library ” listbox and the delete key is pressed , the software of the present invention finds the personid of the selected name in the listbox . the software of the present invention deletes the personid from the people table and also deletes all the appearance records containing that personid , which results in the complete elimination of the name label from the other photographs in the photograph library . again , the collection viewer updates the 4 border color of thumbnails that no longer have annotations . fig1 provides a flowchart of a preferred embodiment of the algorithm of the software of the present invention for accomplishing the deletion of a direct annotation . users of the software of the present invention can edit a name of person in library ( e . g ., by pressing the edit button of the photo viewer toolbar or by just double clicking over the selected name in the “ people in library ” listbox ). when the edited name is typed in , the software of the present invention finds and changes the corresponding person record from the people table only if there is no duplication of the name in the people table . it also refreshes both the “ people in this photograph ” and the “ people in library ” listboxes , and all the name labels on the current photograph . if duplication occurs , the whole editing process will be ignored with a warning message . fig1 provides a flowchart of a preferred embodiment of the algorithm of the software of the present invention for accomplishing the editing of a direct annotation . the software of the present invention permits a user to change the position of a name label by drag - and - dropping the existing label over the photograph . as mentioned before , the x , y position of the center point of a name label relative to its associated image aspect is stored in the corresponding appearance record . thus , if the image is resized , the x , y position of the center point of the label is proportionately adjusted . in a preferred embodiment , the software of the present invention uses a small marker hanging down from the center of the label to allow precise placement . the size and direction ( downward ) of the marker is fixed , which may encumber efforts to distinguish labels when many people appear close together in a photograph . using eccentric labels ( jean - daniel fekete catherine plaisant , “ excentric labeling : dynamic neighborhood labeling for data visualization .”, proceedings of acm chi 99 conference on human factors in computing systems , 512 – 519 , 1999 ) or adding an additional ( x , y ) field to the appearance table to allow a longer and directional marker may be used in such circumstances . alternatively , other features of the annotation may be changed , such as the font , font color , font highlighting , font size , justification , etc . and occlusion among labels in resizing the photograph may also be avoided . retyping the names that already exist in other libraries is very tedious and time - consuming job . therefore , the software of the present invention supports a function to import the people ( image aspects ) table from other libraries . the internal process of importing the people table is similar to that of creating a new person repeatedly . the only thing the software of the present invention should handle is checking and eliminating the duplication of a person name . while the invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof , it will be understood that it is capable of further modifications and this application is intended to cover any variations , uses , or adaptations of the invention following , in general , the principles of the invention and including such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set forth . | US-97636201-A |
an innovative method of making pinatas utilizes pre - cut and scored cardstock designed with tab and slot closures . once the shapes are folded and secured , the pinatas can be decorated using traditional or innovative methods . by designing the tab / slot closure of the body on the bottom of the pinata , the enclosed treats may be released in a non - destructive manner . | the numerous innovative teachings of the present application will be described with particular reference to the presently preferred embodiment ( by way of example , and not of limitation ), in which : fig1 a , 1b , and 1c show an example of a pattern for a pinata . all three pieces are used to make pinatas in the shape of a burro ; using only 1a and 1b , a dog or horse is possible . in the presently preferred embodiment , the patterns are die cut and scored out of 24 - point cardstock . the design includes tabs ( 10 ) and slots ( 20 ) which will be used to fasten the pieces together in the required manner , as well as score lines for ease in folding into the desired shape . the first piece , as shown in fig1 a will form the &# 34 ; body &# 34 ; of the pinata and hold the added treats , so the pattern includes a substantially circular opening ( 30 ) with a flap for adding candy and other treats after decoration . in the presently preferred embodiment , a simple wire loop will be added after assembly to provide a single - point attachment so that the pinata may swing freely when suspended . the ends of the wire loop pass into the body of the pinata at a suitably provided slot ( 40 ), formed by an inward folding of the cardboard . a second piece , shown in fig1 b , forms the &# 34 ; head &# 34 ; and helps complete the decorative design , but will not contain treats , so it does not have an access hole . fig1 c forms the &# 34 ; ears &# 34 ; when a burro is desired , but is omitted when a dog or horse is called for . other designs may include a lesser or greater number of pieces , depending on the complexity of the finished design . many of the existing designs are of animals , and as shown by the example given , one body shape can often be used for different animals , changing only a part of the head and / or decoration design . in the presently preferred embodiment , for example , one pattern produces the dog , horse , or burro ; another model , this one of a bull , can become a lion by removing the horns and changing in the decorations used . note that the portions of the pattern which will form the &# 34 ; legs &# 34 ; fold inward so that the legs are part of the overall container and close with a tab that seals in enclosed treats . narrow wedges ( 80 ) incorporated in the folding pattern provide softened edges for the legs . in a design of this type , there will necessarily be a large tab / slot combination ( 50 / 60 ) to close the body portion of the pinata . by designing this opening at the bottom of the body , as shown in fig5 one may advantageously create a non - violent way to open the pinata , i . e ., a trapdoor . a small hole ( 70 ) designed near the closure of the body allows a string or ribbon to be attached . pulling on this string will open the body of the pinata and allow treats to fall . in the preferred method of use , the user will loosely attach a multitude of strings to the underside of the pinatas , so that all but one of the strings will simply pull away without opening the pinata . the children are then allowed to take turns pulling on the strings , one at a time , until the string is pulled which opens the pinata . this innovation also makes it possible to have a reusable pinata . fig2 shows the patterns of fig1 a and 1b , now folded into the planned shape , with tabs and slots holding the figure securely together . fig5 shows a detail of the body portion only , and shows the opening for filling the pinata ( 30 ), as well as the slot for attaching a wire loop or other means of suspension ( 40 ). in this embodiment , slot 40 also provides one of the slots for mounting the head to the body , though this is not necessarily always the case . the wire loop passes through the slot provided and , in the presently preferred embodiment , is secured around several pieces of cardstock to prevent the loop from slipping out of position . fig4 shows a detail of the same body portion as fig5 this time from the bottom of the pinata , i . e ., from between the &# 34 ; legs &# 34 ;. from this position , the trapdoor opening is easily seen . note that in addition to the primary tab / slot closure ( 50 / 60 ) which holds the trapdoor closed , each of the two side of the opening also fits into slots in each of the legs for additional support . shown is a ribbon or string ( 90 ) attached to the pinata through the hole ( 70 ). a sharp tug on this string will pull the tabs that secure this opening out of their corresponding slots to open the body of the pinata . the pinata will now be decorated . generally , the manufacturer decorates the pinatas before they are sold , but the folding pinatas are so easy to put together that they may also be sold unassembled , with the purchaser doing the final assembly and decorating . fig3 shows a completed and decorated pinata . the traditional material used for decoration is brightly colored tissue paper cut in fringed strips . these strips of paper are glued into position on the pinata in an overlapping manner , much the same way that shingles are overlapped on a roof . other decorations may be glued on at the same time , such as a tail or floppy ears for an animal . the access hole is generally covered over in the decorating . by feeling for the opening through the tissue paper , the purchaser can tear a hole to fill the pinata just prior to use . as will be recognized by those skilled in the art , the innovative concepts described in the present application can be modified and varied over a tremendous range of applications , and accordingly the scope of patented subject matter is not limited by any of the specific exemplary teachings given . for example , while the presently preferred embodiment uses tabs and slots to secure the pieces in position , they may less preferably be fastened with glue , tape , staples , or other fasteners . other materials can be less preferably used instead of cardstock , such as sheet plastic , or even sheet metal , if comparably stiff . currently , the pinatas are decorated in the traditional manner as explained above , but in an alternative embodiment , printed cardstock can be used to give features to an design or simply to provide a colorful background for other decorations . alternatively , a spray coating can be applied after assembly to provide texture and / or color . hangers other than the loop of wire can be used , such as string or yarn . the embodiment shown has a single point of attachment for the suspension , but other types of suspension can be used , such as a harness arrangement around the body of the pinata . the foregoing embodiments are merely illustrative of the possible embodiments . the full scope of the invention is defined only by the issued claims . | US-12007798-A |
a two part guide plate of a heddle frame is disclosed . one element of the guide plate is fixed to the heddle frame and has a groove into which a movable element is pivotably inserted . the fixed and movable elements are pivotably connected by a connection pin and mate with one another at corresponding fitting parts having sloped contacting surfaces . a projection and depression on the fixed and movable elements cooperate to hold the movable element in an upright position , however sufficient force on the movable element will permit it to be overthrown so that the clearance between the heddle frame and a drawing in machine can be increased . | the structure of the first embodiment of this invention is explained hereunder in the reference to fig1 through fig7 in which guide plate 1 consists of fixed side element 2 and movable side element 3 . the fixed side element 2 is structured as shown in fig2 and fig3 . a connecting part 5 connecting both clipping pieces 4 and 4 &# 39 ; is formed in the center of the fixed side element 2 , and a side beam fitting groove 6 is formed in the side beam 7 of the heddle frame adjacent the underside of the connecting part 5 . in both sides of the lower ends of clipping pieces 4 and 4 &# 39 ;, are formed mating parts 9 and 9 &# 39 ;, which fit through holes 8 , 8 &# 39 ; ( see fig3 ) of the side beam 7 of the heddle frame a so as to project into the fitting groove 6 of the side beam , with screw holes 10 , 10 &# 39 ; for each mating part 9 and 9 &# 39 ;. the upper side of both clipping pieces 4 and 4 &# 39 ; is formed with a joining groove 11 , the upper ends of which are formed with circular arc portions 12 , and which is also formed with fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ; with sloped surfaces 13 having about a 30 ° slope angle and extending from the ends of the circular arc portions 12 outwardly and downwardly toward the upper side of the connecting part 5 . circular joining holes 15 and 15 &# 39 ; are formed at the center of said circular arc portions 12 of the clipping pieces 4 and 4 &# 39 ;, and a circular arc fixing recess 16 is formed in the center of the upper surface of the said connecting part 5 . further , the fixed side element 2 can be made strong and quiet by using wear resistant plastic materials such as &# 34 ; durakon ,&# 34 ; ( polyacetal resin ) etc . the movable side element 3 is also constructed as shown in fig2 and fig3 . the upper part 17 has the same width as that of the clipping pieces 4 and 4 &# 39 ; and is hollow , but with a number of vertically extending ribs 18 and horizontal stiffner cross ribs 18 &# 39 ;. the lower end of the element is formed with a single body connecting part 19 which is formed thinner than the remainder of the movable element so that it can be fit in the joining groove 11 . the connecting part 19 includes an inserting hole 20 , and a circular arc portion 21 , having hole 20 as a center , is formed in the lower end . fitting grooves 22 and 22 &# 39 ;, which fit with the fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ; extend on both sides of the connection part 19 from upper end of circular arc portion 21 to the opposite side walls of the upper portion 17 and divide the connection part 19 from the upper portion 17 . the fitting grooves 22 , 22 &# 39 ; are formed in circular arc form adjacent circular arc portion 21 . the fitting grooves 22 and 22 &# 39 ; are provided with 30 ° sloped surfaces 23 which mate with the sloped surfaces 13 of the fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ;. at the lower center of the connecting part 19 , circular arc projection 24 projects to fit with the fixing recess 16 . further , the movable side element 3 can be made sufficiently strong and noise preventive by use of wear resistant plastic material such as durakon , as in the case of fixed side element 2 . in guide plate 1 , the connection part 19 of movable side element 3 engages with the joining groove 11 of the fixed side element 2 , and they are joined by inserting a connection pin 25 through joining holes 15 and 15 &# 39 ;, and connecting hole 20 . the connection pin 25 is constructed of a male part 26 and a female part 27 formed of wear resistant plastic material such as durakon . the male part 26 is made with a hollow cylindrical projection 30 formed on a side of a flange 29 having through hole 28 in the center , as shown in fig4 and fig5 . four slits 31 are formed in the projection 30 , extending parallel with the cylinder axis , and circumferentially separated by 90 °. bosses 32 , which are triangular in section are formed between each slit 31 at the end of the projection opposite the end for the flange . the female part 27 is formed by a cylindrically projected hollow receptacle 35 attached to one side of a flange 34 having through hole 33 as shown in fig6 and fig7 . a larger diameter cylindrical joining part 36 of the through hole 33 is formed in the flange side inner surface of the projected receptacle . when female part 27 , constructed as above , is fit in the through hole 20 through one joining hole 15 , and male part 26 is fitted in the projected part 35 of the female part 27 by insertion through joining hole 15 &# 39 ;, the bosses 32 of the male part 26 are contracted by partially closing slits 31 , but return to their original form when the bosses reach joining part 36 . the bosses 32 are thus engaged by the stepped portion of joining part 36 so that the male part is permanently joined to the female part . in this condition , fixed side element 2 and movable side element 3 of the guide plate 1 are joined together , and under normal conditions , they are linearly connected as shown in fig2 and fig3 . as such , circular arc projection 24 of the movable side element 3 fits in the fitting recess 16 of fixed side element 2 , and the fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ; of fixed side element 2 are engaged in the fitting grooves 22 and 22 &# 39 ; of the movable side element 3 , causing the movable side element 3 to remain in an upright condition due to friction among the parts . to attach the guide plates 1 to the side beam 7 , the bottom end of the side beam fitting groove 6 is first opened and clipping pieces 4 and 4 &# 39 ; are placed at predetermined positions on the side beam 7 . mating parts 9 , and 9 &# 39 ;, are then fitted in the fitting holes 8 and bolts 37 are passed from one screw hole 10 to the other screw hole 10 &# 39 ;, and are fixed by fastening nuts 38 . the invention described above is used in the case of attaching or removing a heddle frame to or from a drawing in machine ( not indicated in the drawings ) by rotating the movable side element 3 around the connecting pin 25 as shown by the broken line in fig1 to reduce the distance from the center of the heddle frame to the edge point of the lower guide plate . before overthrowing the movable side frame 3 , the circular arc projection 24 fitted in the fixing recess 16 so that it resists the overthrow action ; however , because of circular arc form of the projection 24 , increased force on the movable side element 3 can overpower the resistance , to cause overthrowing . the second embodiment of this invention is now described with reference to fig8 which shows a variation of connection pin 25 . the male part 26 &# 39 ; is formed with four triangular bosses 32 &# 39 ;, as in the earlier embodiment , but located at the mid - point of the projection part 30 . the female part 27 &# 39 ; is formed with a triangular section form corresponding to the bosses of part 36 &# 39 ;, at its center mid point . the connection pin of the first and second embodiment is used for the connection of the fixed side element 2 to the movable side element 3 for easy connection by simply fitting the male part to the female part , and except for this consideration , any other type of connection pin structure can be used . the third embodiment of this invention is described in fig9 . in this embodiment , fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ; of fixed side element 2 are formed with a square section projection instead of sloped surface as in the case of the first embodiment , and the fitting grooves 22 , 22 &# 39 ; of movable side element 3 are formed with corresponding square grooves . other features of the fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ; and fitting grooves 22 and 22 &# 39 ; are the same as in the first embodiment . it was explained in reference to the first embodiment that fixed side element 2 is fixed to the side beam 7 by fitting the mating part 9 in the through hole 8 formed in the side beam 7 . this structure was chosen based upon the construction of the side beam 7 ; however , other structures such as to position side beam 7 in the side beam fixing groove 6 and to fix the lower end of the clipping pieces 4 and 4 &# 39 ; with screw bolts may be adopted , depending on the structure of the side beam 7 . the guide plate to be attached to the upper side beam 7 can be of the single body fixed style as conventionally used . this invention is constructed and functions as described above , which allows one to make the height of the guide plate 1 lower by overthrowing the movable side element 3 so that it becomes parallel with the side beam 7 . because of the structure of connecting the fixed side element 2 with the movable side element 3 by a connection pin 25 , the necessity of removing the guide plate from the side beam when attaching or removing heddle frames to or from a drawing in machine is eliminated , even in the case where the maximum width dimension of the top and bottom of the heddle frame is restricted as in the case of drawing in machine , and results in the improvement of operating conditions . because of the structure that the fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ; of fixed side element 2 are formed to extend from the circular arc to the clipping piece 4 , corresponding side element 3 is prevented by friction from falling down . further , the feature of fitting the fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ; into the fitting grooves 22 and 22 &# 39 ; formed in the movable side element 3 , prevents the movable side element 3 from falling down during an opening operation , because of the frictional force between both parts . the sloped faces of fitting parts 14 and 14 &# 39 ;, and fitting grooves 22 and 22 &# 39 ;, increases their contacting friction surfaces which permits them to be better able to prevent the falling down of the movable side element 3 . further the fixing recess 16 formed in the connecting part 5 of the fixed side element 2 , and the circular arc projection 24 fittable within the fixing recess and formed in the movable side element 3 , further ensure the prevention of the falling down of movable side element 3 . obviously , numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings . it is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims , the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein . | US-25017681-A |
a method and apparatus for removing oil or other hydrocarbons from the surface of a body of water by the distribution of discrete buoyant porous member upon the water surface , continuously removing the members from the surface , removing the absorbed oil from the members in a recovery assembly , and returning the members to the surface of the water for reuse . the members are rigid , porous spheres with oleophilic hydrophobic material herein . the recovery assembly includes a housing having a rotating frame therein with a wheel rotatably mounted thereon for carrying a plurality of members . a motor rotates the wheel and frame and a feed successively feeds members into the rotating wheel for centrifuging . a discharge removes the balls from the wheel after a set period of time and returns the balls to the surface of the water . | referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views , there is illustrated in fig1 an apparatus 10 for collecting a quantity of liquid from the surface of a body of water . the apparatus is especially adapted for use in collecting and removing hydrocarbons , such as oil floating on or dispersed near the surface of the body of water . it can be used when the body of water is still or when waves are present thereon . the apparatus 10 operates by first depositing a plurality of discrete rigid members 18 on the surface of the water which absorb the oil . the members 18 can then be removed from the water and the hydrocarbons removed therefrom . the members 18 can then be returned to the water for reuse . the discrete members 18 can be used to absorb the hydrocarbons in the water in a plurality of different ways . for example , they can be placed in the water in a polluted area , and after they have absorbed a quantity of oil , they can be gathered manually for cleaning . second , the members 18 could be confined inside a floating net or barrier , which may be stationary , or towed through the polluted areas . after absorbing the oil , the members 18 can be removed manually or mechanically as by a small conveyor and thereafter have the oil removed therefrom . third , the members 18 could be placed inside a horizontal cylindrical cage mounted on the front of a barge . the cage can be rotated and the barge moved through the polluted area as the members 18 absorb the oil . the rotation of the cage together with a suitable internal guide means could be used to provide continuous introduction of clean members 18 into one end of the cage and removal of the members 18 which have absorbed oil from the other end . these removed members 18 could then be cleaned and returned to the cage in a continuous cycle . other systems and methods of using the rigid discrete members 18 to recover oil from the surface of a body of water could be utilized . in the disclosed apparatus 10 , a suitable vessel 12 such as a ship or barge is provided . this vessel 12 is moved in the water to a point adjacent to the hydrocarbon contamination . a barrier 13 can be provided for floating on the surface of the water . this barrier 13 is positioned to surround the contaminant to be removed from the surface of the water . the barrier 13 performs the function of containing the contaminant within a defined area and containing the discrete members 18 which are placed in the water to absorb the contaminant . in addition , the barrier 13 can be attached to and towed by the vessel 12 if the area of contamination is of a sufficient size to allow the discrete members to be pulled through the contaminated area while remaining confined within the barrier 13 . a recovery assembly 14 is mounted on the vessel 12 for use in removing the oil absorbed by the discrete members 18 . the assembly 14 is provided with a conveyor 16 for lifting the members 18 from the surface of the water and transporting them to the assembly 14 . in the present embodiment , a plurality of separate discrete spherical balls are used as members 18 to absorb the hydrocarbons in the water . a preferred embodiment for these members is illustrated in fig2 . the members 18 have an outer spherical shell 19 which gives the members 18 a sufficient rigidity . this outer shell can be rubber or plastic material and is provided with a plurality of holes , bores or other openings 21 which allow liquids to enter and leave the spherical chamber defined within the shell 19 . the chamber of shell 19 is filled with porous polyurethane foam or other suitable material 23 which is oleophilic and hydrophobic . this material 23 can then be used to wick or absorb the contaminant from the surface of the water while repelling the absorption of water . if desired , a small air - filled ball can in some cases be provided inside the material 23 to add sufficient buoyancy to the members 18 to insure floating in the water . according to a particular feature of the present invention , the oil - absorbing material 23 is enclosed within the perforated shell 19 . water and oil can then pass through the perforation so that oil can be absorbed by the material 23 . in addition , movement of the water into the members 18 will be relatively gentle , to help retain oil in the material 23 . in addition , the rigidity of shell 19 prevents the oil from being squeezed back out of the material 23 by wave action or by forces created during handling of the members 18 . these members 18 have been described as being spherical in shape and it is to be understood , of course , that other shapes could be utilized as desired without departing from the invention as described herein . in operation , the members 18 are placed on the surface of the water where they absorb spilled hydrocarbon compounds . the conveyor 16 is used to remove the members 18 from the water and transfer the same to the liquid recovery assembly 14 located on the vessel 12 . the liquid recovery assembly 14 can then remove absorbed oil from the members 18 as will be hereinafter described in more detail . the members 18 can then be returned to the surface of the water to absorb additional oil and repeat the cycle as many times as necessary . turning now to fig3 - 6 , the details of the liquid recovery assembly 14 are illustrated . this assembly 14 has a hopper 20 into which the members leaving the conveyors 16 fall . the hopper 20 is of a gravity feed type with a tapered lower portion 22 for guiding the balls into an upper central feed tube 24 . this upper feed tube 24 is centrally positioned on a housing 26 which is in turn mounted on the vessel 12 . the housing 26 is provided with circular upper and lower walls 28 and 30 , respectively , and a cylindrical side wall 32 . these walls 28 , 30 and 32 define a sealed cylindrical chamber 34 therein . the walls 28 , 30 and 32 can be suitably attached together but should be provided with means to allow access to chamber 34 to service and assemble the hereinafter described equipment therein . a drain 36 is provided in the housing 26 to remove oil or other liquids which may collect within the chamber 34 . the upper feed tube 24 is centrally mounted on the upper wall 28 . a portion 40 extends above the surface of wall 28 and a portion 42 extends into the interior of chamber 34 . the feed tube 24 is rigidly attached to the wall 28 and is provided with a cylindrical passage 44 of a sufficient diameter to allow the passage of members 18 therethrough by gravity feed . a lower discharge tube 50 is centrally mounted in the lower wall 30 . this tube has a portion 52 which extends to the ouside of lower wall 30 and a portion 54 which extends into the interior of chamber 34 . a cylindrical passage 55 is provided in tube 50 and is of sufficient diameter to allow the passage of members 18 therethrough . the tubes 24 and 50 are coaxially aligned . the portion 42 of tube 24 is provided with reduced diameter portion 60 . the portion 54 of tube 50 is likewise provided with a reduced diameter portion 62 . bearings 64 and 66 are mounted , respectively , on portions 60 and 62 . a frame assembly 70 is rotatably supported by bearings 64 and 66 within chamber 34 . the assembly 70 is formed from a rectangular upper beam member 72 and a rectangular lower beam member 74 . the beam members 72 and 74 are attached to bearings 64 and 66 , respectively . spacer bars 76 rigidly attach members 72 and 74 in spaced parallel relationship . a pulley member 78 is fixed on the upper surface of beam 72 concentrically with the bearing 64 . an electric motor 80 is fixed on the exterior of the upper wall 28 and has a drive shaft 82 which extends through a bore 84 in the upper wall 28 . a suitable drive pulley 86 is keyed to rotate with drive shaft 82 and engages an endless belt 88 which is in turn entrained on pulley member 78 . thus by operating the motor 80 , the shaft 82 and pulley 86 will be rotated which in turn rotates pulley member 78 and assembly 70 . the relative sizes of pulleys 86 and 78 are selected so that a high - speed rotation of the shaft 82 will produce a corresponding low speed rotation of the assembly 70 . it is to be understood , of course , that by selecting the sizes of these pulleys , the speed of rotation of the assembly 70 could be varied as desired . an idler shaft 90 is rotatably attached to assembly 70 by an upper bearing 92 in member 72 and a lower bearing 94 in member 74 . a pulley 96 is keyed to rotate with the idler shaft 90 . a pulley 98 is fixed to the reduced diameter portion 60 of tube 24 . an endless belt 100 is entrained between the pulleys 96 and 98 such that rotation of assembly 70 with respect to pulley 98 will cause rotation of idler shaft 90 . a second pulley 102 is keyed to rotate with shaft 90 and is located below pulley 96 . an endless belt 104 is entrained on pulley 102 . a shaft 111 carrying a wheel 110 is rotatably mounted on assembly 70 by means of an upper bearing 112 and a lower bearing 114 . a pulley 116 is fixed on the exterior of the wheel 110 and engages and is rotated by endless belt 104 . thus it can be seen that by rotating assembly 70 by means of motor 80 , wheel 110 will be caused to rotate with respect to the assembly 70 by means of pulley 98 , belt 100 , pulley 96 , idler shaft 90 , pulley 102 , endless belt 104 , and pulley 116 . the selection of the diameter of the various pulleys can be chosen as desired to accomplish the desired speed of rotation of the wheel 110 . wheel 110 is provided with a plurality of cylindrical bores 120 which extend completely through the wheel 110 . these bores 120 are angularly spaced around the wheel and taper in an outward and downward direction as shown . these bores 120 are of a sufficient diameter to receive the members 18 therein . an upper guard 122 is fixed to and rotates with assembly 70 . supports 124 and 126 are fixed between guard 122 and assembly 70 . this upper guard 122 has a clearance opening 128 to allow shaft 111 to extend therethrough . the guard 122 is positioned adjacent to the upper surface of the wheel 110 and defines a space 123 therebetween . a feed opening 130 is provided to allow members 18 to enter the bores 120 . this feed opening 130 is positioned to align with the bores 120 in wheel 110 as wheel 110 rotates with respect to frame 70 and guard 122 . a feed section 132 is attached to the guard 122 below the lower end of tube 24 . the feed section 132 , as can be seen in fig5 has an upper opening 134 aligned with passageway 44 for receiving members 18 from the lower end of tube 24 . a passageway 136 communicates between the upper opening 134 and a lower discharge opening 138 . opening 138 is aligned with feed opening 130 of guard 122 . an inclined surface 140 is provided adjacent the lower end of the discharge opening 138 to force the members 18 to move in the direction of arrow 142 when one of the bores 120 aligns with the feed opening 130 . a lower guard 144 is attached to member 74 and is positioned below and adjacent to wheel 110 . a space 145 is formed between wheel 110 and guard 144 . thus , in operation , as the wheel 110 is rotated with respect to the guard 122 , members 118 will successively drop into bores 120 as they pass opening 130 . the members will be carried by the wheel 110 and will be held in the bores 120 by the upper and lower guards 122 and 144 , respectively . the lower guard 144 is provided with a clearance opening 146 for the shaft 111 and an exit opening 148 which aligns with the passageway 55 of tube 50 . the opening 148 is angularly displaced from the opening 138 such that the members 18 will drop from the bores 120 of the wheel 110 prior to the bores becoming aligned with the opening 138 and the receipt of a new member 18 is therein . the members 18 then pass through passageway 55 and can be returned to the water to be used as desired . as it can be seen , the members 18 containing absorbed liquid , such as oil , enter the hopper 20 and subsequently move through passageway 44 and into one of the bores 120 . thereafter , rotation of the apparatus causes the balls to move from the position adjacent to tubes 24 and 50 to a position adjacent to the periphery of the assembly 70 and away from the axis of rotation where centrifugal force will act upon the members 18 causing the oil absorbed therein to be forced out and flow through the spaces 123 and 145 . the oil then flows to the walls of chamber 34 and out drain 36 to be disposed of as desired . the rotation of the wheel 110 can be selected to be one - tenth of that of the assembly 70 such that the members 18 are subjected to ten rotations of assembly 70 while supported in the wheel 110 . if it is desired that the assembly operate in a faster speed , a suitable wedged member ( not shown ) could be provided at the opening 148 to engage the balls and drive them in a downward direction into the passageway 55 . a suitable groove could be provided in the lower face of the wheel 110 to prevent interference between this wedge and the wheel 110 . the foregoing description describes a system for collecting hydrocarbon compounds from the surface of a body of water in which discrete porous rigid members are used to absorb the oil . a recovery assembly is described for removing the absorbed contaminant from the members by use of centrifugal force eliminating the necessity of the use of undesirable compressible members . it is to be understood , of course , that the foregoing description relates only to preferred embodiments of the present invention and that numerous modifications and alterations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims . | US-56926175-A |
a system for determining dynamically any given registered wireless device voip location , whereby the dynamic method reports the voip address return path as being the voip location into a database . applications of the system can access the database to contact each individual , specific , fixed or wireless device by voip for any data exchange . | referring to fig1 and 2 , a dynamic voip location system which could be a private or commercial server 100 ( voip location server ), in any location in the world which uses internet services , and which includes one or more databases ( voip location database ) and an external internet access c 2 to the system 100 . additional external access means to the system can also be present . additional external databases 101 ( voip location database ) may be accessible to the system 100 . the system server 100 , could host the ‘ software module ’ ( voip location software module ‘ sm ’) downloadable into a wireless device ; for example the ‘ software module ’ as shown in fig1 and 2 in each wireless device wd_x 1 and wd_y 1 and wd_wn and wd_zn and so forth in fig1 . to use the “ dynamic voip location system ” service , the device users must connect to the voip location server and subscribe to the service . in some very specific cases , where the information of a specific database accessible to the system consists explicitly and only of public information without any legal restriction on disclosure of any form from any third party whatsoever , only in this last case potentially no subscription would be required if so decided by such 3 rd party . the dynamic voip location system consisting of at least one voip location server ‘ 100 ’ and at least two or more devices that incorporate a ‘ sm ’ ( voip location software module ). the voip location server preferably keeps a record of the subscribers ( with their express consent ) in a database 101 , preferably resident within the same server 100 and stores their user identification and originating voip address or voip return path ( referred to herein as the user &# 39 ; s “ voip location ”) to reply to . in the example shown in fig1 , it is assumed that wireless devices are subscribed the dynamic voip location system ( 100 ) and have a voip location software module ( sm ) embedded in each user &# 39 ; s wireless device . all wireless devices with a built in ‘ sm ’ authenticate and communicate with server 100 even when the wireless device is in standby mode . the ‘ sm ’ communicates with server 100 after wireless device power - up and each time the wireless device changes voip access name ( for example when changing between any of the following 3g , gprs , wifi or between any of the previous and a new different to the previous wifi router name and when changing between mobile cells . the ‘ sm ’ will force the wireless device to close any such other applications different from the ‘ sm ’ itself that requires voip connection and additionally will force the wireless device to switch to the lowest available bandwidth voip access means , for example switch from 3g / wcdma to gprs , as shown in fig2 . the voip location server 100 will , each time a wireless device ( wd_x 1 , wd_zn , etc .) with a built in voip location software module ‘ sm ’ subscribed to the dynamic voip location system connects with the server , store the return response path referred to in this invention as each wireless device user &# 39 ; s voip location and which for example will correspond in the event of a wireless device connect through gprs with its unique pspdn ( packet switched public data network ) address at such time . as a matter of illustration of the workings of the dynamic voip location system , wherein 3g enabled wireless device wd_y 1 wishes to call 3g enabled wireless device wd_x 1 , where both devices incorporate a sip software application that enables voip conversations and incorporate also this invention &# 39 ; s voip location software module ‘ sm ’. both wd_x 1 and wd_y 1 latest voip location ( voip return path or also known in the industry as pspdn ( packet switched public data network ) address is stored in voip location server 100 or in external database 101 accessible to the server 100 and updated by the wireless devices as described herein before . the ‘ sm ’ in both wireless devices have switched the wireless devices to the least power consuming gprs instead of the higher power consuming 3g . as illustrated in fig2 wireless device user wd_y 1 starts opening its sip application ( wireless device exits standby state ), whereby ‘ sm ’ switches wd_y 1 from gprs to 3g ( highest available voip bandwidth ) and the user initiates a sip to wd_x 1 who is in standby mode through voip connections c 3 - c 6 and c 14 . the voip sip server informs voip location server 100 through connection c 15 of a call request originated by wd_y 1 and destined for wd_x 1 . the voip location server 100 will reply with the latest voip location address available in its database of wd_x 1 through connections c 2 and c 1 - c 5 and send data with instructions for wd_x 1 voip location software module ‘ sm ’ to switch from gprs to 3g ( highest available voip bandwidth ) and activate the corresponding sip application to allow it to receive the incoming call ringing signalling , or alternatively to notify the user of wd_x 1 with a notification of an incoming call such that the user can accept or reject it . in the event of acceptance of the incoming notification the corresponding action will be automatically performed by the ‘ sm ’, for example activate the corresponding sip application as to accept the incoming call request originated by wd_y 1 . referring to fig3 and 4 , these show the timing of communications between the two main parts of the dynamic voip location system , namely between voip location software module ‘ sm ’, referred to in fig3 and 4 as “ client ping ” and voip location server ‘ 100 ’, referred to in fig3 and 4 as “ server reply ”. it illustrates the same previous example of a sip call originated by wd_y 1 , referred to in fig3 and 4 as ‘ call 1 ’ and a subsequent later call also originated by wd_y 1 referred to as ‘ call 2 ’. both ‘ call 1 ’ and ‘ call 2 ’ are destined for wd_x 1 , as explained herein . the time ‘ pt ’ refers to the time between two consecutive communications ( voip location updates ) between wd_x 1 and server 100 and the corresponding voip location update in the database 100 or 101 corresponding to wd_x 1 . the timing ‘ rt ’ is the time the software module ms ′ allows the server 100 to send a reply that wd_x 1 would deem acceptable as valid . this time ‘ rt ’ is defined by the wireless device &# 39 ; s ‘ sm ’ as ‘ rt ’ being bigger then ‘ pt ’ when communicating with server 100 . it is important to note , that the time ‘ pt ’ may vary between consecutive ‘ pt &# 39 ; s ’ and the ‘ sm ’ also dynamically adapts the allowed ‘ rt ’ by server 100 in compliance with previous condition of ‘ rt ’& gt ;‘ pt ’. it is also important to note that the server 100 does not necessarily reply to ‘ sm ’ communications for voip location updates , but simply extracts and stores the voip location address in the corresponding database user data and only replies to the corresponding wireless device &# 39 ; s ‘ sm ’ exactly at the time when the server 100 has data for a specific subscribed user &# 39 ; s ‘ sm ’ ( be it a notification of some sort or a message or an incoming call and so forth ). this last is in fact possible to be instant — i . e . at the time the server 100 has data to be sent to a specific device &# 39 ; s ‘ sm ’ because of the condition of ‘ rt ’ ( allowed response time of server 100 )& gt ;‘ pt ’ ( time between two consecutive voip location updates by a device &# 39 ; s software module ‘ sm ’). this automated dynamic way of obtaining the “ voip location ” between an incoming voip location update request and any available voip location address available in the database 100 or 101 is generally very fast because voip ( voice over internet protocol ) access and database access is generally fast . furthermore , as reducing power consumption to a minimum whilst maintaining high reliability of updating the voip location corresponding to each user subscribed to the dynamic voip location system , it is crucial that it is understood that the software modules ‘ sm ’ together with the voip location server ‘ 100 ’ which includes a voip location database inside ‘ 100 ’ or separate as ‘ 101 ’ together form the dynamic voip location system . any of the various components or sub - steps disclosed above can be used either alone , or in multiple parallel set - ups , or with other components , or with components or features of the present invention . it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the “ dynamic voip location system ”, “ voip location server ” or “ voip location software module ” of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention . the foregoing disclosure of embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description . it is not exhaustive or intended to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed herein . many variations and modifications of the embodiments described herein will be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the above disclosure . the scope of the invention is to be defined only by the claims appended hereto , and by their equivalents . | US-201615157476-A |
a method of stabilizing a catalyst for the conversion of aromatic hydrocarbons in the presence of hydrogen such as the isomerization of c 8 aromatic hydrocarbons to increase the content of p - xylene , is carried out by contacting a catalyst in advance of start - up with hydrocarbons in the liquid phase at a temperature preferably of about 50 ° to about 250 ° c . and preferably at elevated pressure up to about 50 kg / cm 2 in the absence of hydrogen ; the catalyst being prepared by the acid leaching of a hydrogen form mordenite to produce a mordenite having a silica to alumina molar ratio of about 15 to 21 . preferably , the hydrocarbons used for the contacting have the composition of the feed to be converted . | the conversion of aromatic hydrocarbons in a hydrogen atmosphere may involve any of the following : the disproportionation of alkylbenzenes such as toluene , xylene and ethylbenzene to produce benzene , toluene , xylene and diethylbenzenes ; the isomerization of polyalkylbenzenes such as xylene , trimethylbenzene , tetramethylbenzene and diethylbenzene ; and the hydrodealkylation of polyalkylbenzenes . in particular , the conversion may be a simultaneous disproportionation and isomerization of c 8 aromatic hydrocarbons . the c 8 aromatic hydrocarbons used as a starting material include , for example , o - xylene , m - xylene , p - xylene and ethylbenzene which are not in a thermodynamic composition and usually contain 5 % by weight or more of ethylbenzene . the quantity of ethylbenzene in the starting material is preferably 40 % by weight or less since , if greater than 40 % by weight , the isomerization , conversion and recovery of xylenes are decreased . the hydrocarbon used in the present invention for the contact with the catalyst in advance of start - up includes preferably aromatic hydrocarbons , in particular , c 6 to c 9 , more preferably c 6 to c 8 , aromatic hydrocarbons and mixtures of hydrocarbons containing aromatic hydrocarbons . in the case of a catalyst used for the conversion of c 8 aromatic hydrocarbons , a mixture of aromatic hydrocarbons used as a starting material for the conversion can be used at it is . contact of the catalyst for the conversion of aromatic hydrocarbons with a hydrocarbon is preferably carried out with heating . the temperature of contacting is ordinarily normal temperature ( 20 ° c .) to about 270 ° c ., preferably about 50 ° to about 250 ° c . the pressure is generally set in a range such that a liquid phase can be maintained at the selected temperature and preferably ranges from normal ( atmospheric ) pressure to 50 kg / cm 2 . in particular , the contacting is preferably carried out under pressure . the contact time is ordinarily 1 to 50 hours at a liquid hour space velocity ( lhsv ) of 1 to 5 hr - 1 , preferably 3 to 20 hours at a lhsv of 2 to 3 hr - 1 . as is apparent from the foregoing , the present invention provides an effective stabilization method for an aromatic hydrocarbon conversion catalyst without any troublesome modifications . thereby effective simultaneous disproportionation of ethylbenzene and isomerization of xylenes with good catalyst activity maintenance for long periods of time , independently of whether gaseous or liquid phase reactions are carried out , can be achieved . the method of the present invention has another advantage in that , when a starting material for the conversion reaction is used as the hydrocarbon for the contact with the catalyst , the conversion reaction can be started directly merely by changing the conditions at the end of the contacting treatment . furthermore , the method of the present invention is available for the catalyst carrying a metal , for example , a group viii metal . a hydrogen form synthetic mordenite having a silica / alumina molar ratio of 12 . 5 ( commercial name zeolon 200h , manufactured by norton co .) was treated with concentrated hydrochloric acid to leach a part of the alumina in the mordenite , washed with water until no chlorine could be detected , dried at 100 ° c . for 2 hours or more and calcined at 500 ° c . in air for 6 hours to produce a catalyst having a silica to alumina molar ratio of 20 . 0 . the resulting catalyst was charged to a cylindrical reactor and , in advance of start - up for the conversion reaction of aromatic hydrocarbons , it was contacted with a starting material consisting of ethylbenzene / m - xylene ( 23 / 77 by weight ) under the conditions shown in table i ( run nos . 2 to 6 ). the above described hydrogen form synthetic mordenite catalyst which had not been acid treated was similarly subjected to the conditions shown ( run no . 8 ). then the starting material was continuously fed to the cylindrical reactor and the reactions were continuously carried out in vapor phase at a reaction temperature of 225 ° c ., lhsv of 1 hr - 1 and reaction pressure of 50 kg / cm 2 in the presence of hydrogen in a proportion of 2 . 9 mols to 1 mol of the starting hydrocarbon . in comparison , the same reaction was carried out using a catalyst which had not been pretreated by contact with the starting hydrocarbon ( run nos . 1 and 7 ). furthermore , for comparison , the same reaction was carried out using a catalyst which had been contacted with the starting hydrocarbon while supplying hydrogen in a proportion of 133 . 6 nm 3 per 1 k1 of the starting material ( run no . 9 ). data in table i show the results of product analyses with the passage of time . table i__________________________________________________________________________ ethyl - xylenescontact conditions of catalysts reaction benzene isomeri - run temp pressure lhsv time time conver - zation xylenesno . (° c .) ( kg / cm . sup . 2 ) ( hr . sup .- 1 ) ( hr ) ( hr ) sion (%) (%)* recovery (%)** __________________________________________________________________________1 -- -- -- -- 4 41 84 91 50 1 1 992 50 50 2 3 4 47 94 88 50 30 89 953 110 50 2 3 4 47 97 88 50 40 96 924 225 50 2 3 4 47 99 89 50 45 98 905 250 50 2 3 4 44 98 91 50 39 97 946 300 50 2 3 4 6 69 99 50 3 67 997 -- -- -- -- 4 12 44 97 10 3 12 998 225 50 2 3 4 15 62 97 10 13 58 979 225 50 2 3 4 44 95 90 50 33 91 94__________________________________________________________________________ notes : ( these definitions are applicable to tables i - iii ) *% approach to an equilibrium concentration of p - xylene ( 0 . 241 ) in three xylene isomers ** recovery of three xylene isomers the hydrogen form synthetic mordenite catalyst acid - treated as in example 1 was charged to a cylindrical reactor and brought into contact with a starting material consisting of toluene / ethylbenzene / p - xylene / m - xylene / o - xylene ( 0 . 8 / 27 . 5 / 9 . 5 / 55 . 4 / 6 . 8 by molar ratio ) at a temperature of 225 ° c ., lhsv of 2 hr - 1 and pressure of 50 kg / cm 2 for 10 hours . then the said starting material was continuously fed thereto and a liquid phase reaction was thus carried out at a reaction temperature of 210 ° c ., lhsv of 1 hr - 1 and reaction pressure of 20 kg / cm 2 in the presence of hydrogen in a proportion of 0 . 9 mol to 1 mol of the starting hydrocarbon ( run no . 10 ). in comparison , the same reaction was also carried out with the catalyst that has not been contacted with the starting material ( run no . 11 ). data in table ii show the results of analyses of the product stream with increasing periods of time . table ii______________________________________reaction ethylbenzene xylenes xylenesrun time conversion isomerization recoveryno . ( hr .) (%) (%) (%) ______________________________________ 10 22 99 96100 21 99 9710 200 22 98 97300 23 98 96400 22 99 97 4 20 66 9711 10 13 46 98 20 5 22 99______________________________________ using the hydrogen form synthetic mordenite catalyst acid treated as in example 1 , the procedure of example 1 was repeated with the exceptions that the contact with the starting material was carried out under the conditions shown in table iii and a gaseous phase reaction was carried out at a reaction temperature of 200 ° c . and normal pressure ( run nos . 13 and 14 ). in comparison a similar reaction was also carried out with the catalyst that had not been contacted with the starting material ( run no . 12 ). data in table iii show the results of product analyses after various times onstream . table iii__________________________________________________________________________contact conditions reac - ethyl - xylenesof catalyst tion benzene isomeri - xylenesrun temp pressure lhsv time time conver - zation recoveryno . (° c .) ( kg / cm . sup . 2 ) ( hr . sup .- 1 ) ( hr ) ( hr ) sion (%) (%) (%) __________________________________________________________________________12 -- -- -- -- 4 40 56 92 10 21 30 9713 110 normal 2 3 4 43 65 91 pressure 10 33 51 9414 225 50 2 3 4 45 75 90 10 37 66 93__________________________________________________________________________ as is apparent from these examples , the method of the present invention has the advantage that , independently of the reaction phase and pressure , the catalyst deactivation in the disproportionation of ethylbenzene and the isomerization of xylene can effectively be prevented and the isomerization to p - xylene can be increased . in addition , it will be seen that the catalyst deactivation is not so suppressed when the contact with a starting material is carried out in the presence of hydrogen . | US-86716578-A |
there are provided internally cross - linked , stables polymeric materials , in the form of substantially spherical particles , each particle consisting essentially of a single macromolecule . they have the unusual property of being soluble or dispersible in a liquid medium without significantly increasing the viscosity of the medium , rendering them potentially useful in imaging applications such as ink jet printers . they can be prepared by dissolving polymeric material in a solvent system to form a solution of the polymeric material at a concentration therein of less than the critical concentration for the polymer , causing the polymeric material to contract into an approximately spheroidal conformation in solution , cross - linking the polymeric material in solution in said spheroidal conformation so assumed , and recovering stable , cross - linked approximately spheroidal polymeric particles from the solution . | the process of the present invention is applicable to a wide variety of polymeric materials , natural and synthetic . the polymeric materials can be homopolymers or copolymers of two or more monomers , including block copolymers and graft copolymers . it is necessary that the chosen polymeric material be soluble to a substantial extent in at least one solvent system , so as to enable it to adopt a contracted spheroidal conformation in solution , as described below . the chosen polymeric material is first dissolved in an appropriate solvent system . this may be water , an organic solvent or a mixture of two or more such solvents . the polymeric material is dissolved such that , in solution individual macromolecules thereof remain distinct , separated and non - entangled with one another . this can be achieved by arranging that the concentration of polymer in solution is below the “ critical concentration ,” which is the concentration at which the individual polymer chains in the solution interpenetrate . the separated , non - interpenetrating macromolecules in solution can be condensed e . g . by changing the solution characteristics , and stabilized by internal cross - linking , to a particle size which , assuming spherical shape , can be calculated from the molecular weight of the polymer . the ability of the macromolecules to achieve a condensed particle size largely in accordance with theoretical calculations , assuming spheroidal shape , acts as a check or test that the polymer in solution , prior to condensation and cross - linking , was indeed in the form of independent , separated , non - interpenetrated macromolecules for the initial stages of the process of the present invention . a person skilled in the art can readily conduct such calculations from a knowledge of the chemistry and molecular weight of the polymer under consideration , and simple experiments to determine particle size after stabilization as described . comparison of this with theoretical calculation and prediction can determine the critical concentration for the specific polymer solution . either as it dissolves ( for example in the case of sodium styrene sulfonate - vinyl naphthalene copolymers and similar copolymers ), or by reduction of the solvent power of the solution , for example by adding to it a precipitating non - solvent , or a salt which changes the ionization conditions of the solution , the polymer is caused to condense and to contract to dense spheroidal structures . then it is internally stabilized preferably by cross inking , using a system which is compatible with the chosen polymer and the chosen solvent system , for example by exposure to γ - radiation . when each polymer molecule contains three or more internal cross - links , it can no longer expand to form its normal random coil configuration in solution . instead , it retains its spheroidal confirmation , the density of which increases with the degree of cross - linking . in the case of some polymers , e . g . those having mutually reactive chemical groups such as polypeptides , stabilization may occur by reaction of these groups with one another as the polymer is caused to condense and contract , e . g . by formation of disulphide bridges , without application of a specific cross - linking step . a wide variety of polymers and copolymers can be used in the present invention , provided only that a suitable solvent system is available for them , and that the random coils can be condensed to denser spheroidal particles prior to cross - linking . preferred polymers have ionic charges ( polyelectrolytes ) so that , in the preferred aqueous solvent systems , the macromolecules are mutually repellant and less likely to agglomerate prior to cross - linking . examples of useful polymers in the present invention include polymers and copolymers derived from such monomers as styrene , vinyl naphthalene , styrene sulphonate , vinylnaphthalene sulphonate , acrylic acid , methacrylic acid , methylacrylate , acrylamide , methacrylamide , acrylates , methacrylates , acrylonitrile , n - loweralkyl acrylamides and the like . one preferred embodiment of the invention involves the use of polymers having a critical solution temperature , i . e . a temperature below which they are soluble in water , and above which they are insoluble in water . using the process of the present invention , such polymers can be dissolved in water , caused to assume a condensed , spheroidal conformation and internally cross - linked as described . they can then be used for delivery and controlled release of other organic compounds such as drugs . the drug can be dispersed in a suspension of the cross - linked polymer at a temperature above the critical solution temperature , at which the drug will be absorbed by the polymer in its collapsed - particulate form . when the temperature is reduced below the critical solution temperature , the polymer particle swells and slowly releases the drug . polymers having critical solution temperatures include polymers of n - isopropylacrylamide ( nipam ), the critical solution temperature of which can be adjusted by copolymerization with other monomers . fig1 of the accompanying drawings diagrammatically illustrates a process according to an embodiment of the invention . at stage 1 , the polymer exists in a concentrated solution , in which the macromolecule chains 10 are intertwined and interpenetrated , so that any attempt to cross - link them at this stage would cause inter - reaction between the polymer chains . upon dilution of the solution , stage 2 , below the critical concentration , the polymer macromolecules 10 are spaced apart from one another , but still in their random coil configuration . upon reducing the solvent power of the solvent system , e . g . by introducing a non - solvent or a salt , the macromolecules condense , stage 3 , into generally spherical conformation 12 , and can now be cross - linked , eg . by application of ionizing radiation , at stage 4 , whereupon internal cross - linking , as opposed to inter - macromolecular cross - linking occurs , effectively locking the macromolecules into the configurations assumed in stage 3 . then the cross - linked , approximately spherical macromolecule particles can be recovered e . g . by freeze drying , for use in applications referred to above . when the macromolecule particles are re - dissolved e . g . in water , they have very little , if any , effect on the viscosity of the solvent ( in any event less than a 10 % resulting increase in the viscosity ). this is due to the fact that the macromolecules do not agglomerate to any significant extent , nor do they expand or mutually interact to any significant extent . this unusual property renders the nanoparticles useful in a number of specialty applications . the nanoparticle macromolecules having critical solution temperature as described above are , fro example , especially useful as drug carriers , where drugs are associated with the polymers in solution and delivered to very small veins and capillaries of the body , e . g . certain areas of the brain , which are so small that they cannot be penetrated by drug solutions of other than very low viscosity . whilst water is the preferred solvent for use in the present invention , other polar solvents can also be used if desired , alone or in mixtures with each other and in admixture with water . the best choice of solvent depends to a large extent on the choice of polymer . polar solvents such as lower alkanols , ketones , amines , dimethylsulfoxide and the like are suitable alternatives to water , when working with a polymer of limited solubility in water . another aspect of the present invention comprises the use of internally cross - linked macromolecules as described above in the preparation of nanoparticles of metals , i . e . metal particles which are substantially spherical in shape , and which have an average diameter in the range 0 . 1 - 10 nanometers , preferably from 0 . 1 - 8 nanometers and more preferably from 0 . 1 - 5 nanometers . such nanoparticles of metals comprise another aspect of the invention . this process aspect uses internally cross - linked polymers as described above , in which the polymer is a polyelectrolye such as polyacrylic acid or a salt thereof e . g . sodium polyacrylate . for example , by dissolving them in water containing a large excess of ferrous ions , the sodium ions can be replaced by ferrous ions . after removal of the sodium ions , the particles can be heated in air or oxygen to above 200 - 300 ° c . the polymer content is largely removed by pyrolysis , leaving extremely small particles of iron oxide with very large surface area and important electrical and catalytic properties . if the process is carried out in a reducing atmosphere , high surface metal particles can be obtained . other metal salts such as silver salts ( silver nitrate for example ), copper salts and gold salts can be used to produce finely divided metal particles useful in imaging and , because of their very high surface area , in catalysis . palladium , platinum , titanium and molybdenum are examples of metals which can be prepared in nanoparticle form according to the present invention , for use in catalysis . substantially any metal which is stable in its metallic form and which has a water soluble salt can be used in this way . the metal salt can be dialyzed against the sodium polyacrylate ( or similar polymeric salt ) particles of the invention , to remove the alkali metal and replace it with the other metal . then the product is reduced , e . g . by application of laser radiation , and solid metal nanoparticles e . g . silver particles , in some cases surrounded by a fine layer of residual polymer which has a stabilizing effect , are obtained . in another modification , ionic groups on internally cross - linked polymers of the present invention , for example the sodium acrylate groups in the particles made in examples 1 , 2 and 8 below , can easily be converted to other useful functional groups . sodium acrylate groups for example can be converted converted to the corresponding acid chloride by treatment with thionyl chloride . dye molecules containing reactive hydroxyl or amino groups can then be permanently bound to both the surface and the interior of the particles giving rise to products useful in imaging applications such as in ink - jet printing . the invention is further described with reference to the following specific illustrative examples . the sodium salt of poly ( acrylic ) acid ( polysciences inc . cat # 18755 ), of molecular weight of 1 , 300 , 000 , was used in a cross - linking process according to the invention . 97 mg of polymer was dissolved in 100 ml of distilled water . after solution was complete the ph was 8 . 2 , and 98 mg of sodium chloride was slowly added to cause the polymer particles to contract . 5 cc . of the solution was flushed with nitrogen , sealed in a glass vial , and irradiated with 10 megarad of co 60 γ radiation . after radiation the vial was opened and the solution dialysed against water for 5 days to remove the salt , and the polymer particles recovered by freeze drying under vacuum . the particles were studied by atomic force microscopy ( a . f . m ) ( film cast onto mica , to produce tapping mode afm height image ) and shown to be perfectly spherical , with diameters of 6 to 10 nanometers ( see fig2 ). no such particles were observed in the uncross - linked control sample . the particles observed are close to the size calculated for a completely collapsed macromolecular chain of molecular weight one million . when dispersed in water at a concentration of 1 %, the solution had a viscosity virtually the same as pure water . at the same concentration a water solution of uncross - linked starting material was much more viscous . the procedure was repeated with a polyacrylic acid ( sodium salt ) of molecular weight about 700 , 000 , and the a . f . m . picture of this product is presented as fig3 hereto . the spherical shape of the particles is clearly apparent from this picture . the scale on the figure is in millimicrons . the particles have a diameter of approximately 4 nanometers ( 0 . 4 millimicrons ). the procedure of example 1 was repeated except that before addition of the sodium chloride the ph of the solution was reduced to 3 . 2 by addition of small amounts of 0 . 1 n hydrochloric acid . after addition of sodium chloride and crosslinking with 10 megarad of γ - rays , nanoparticles of the same size ( 6 - 10 nanometers ) were observed as in example 1 by a . f . m . copolymers of sodium styrene sulfonate and vinyl naphthalene containing about equal quantities of each comonomer are known to form hypercoiled pseudomicellar conformations in water , i . e . they do not form expanded random coils , but are collapsed into much smaller spherical structures with much higher coil density due to the hydrophobic interactions between the naphthalene groups and water . these particles are negatively charged due to the ionization of the styrene sulfonate groups in water . the polymers can also be internally cross - linked by the following procedure . a polymer containing 50 % by weight sodium styrene sulfonate and 50 % of vinyl naphthalene was prepared in benzene solution albn as catalyst . after isolation and purification by dialysis against pure water it had a molecular weight m w of 200 , 000 . 100 mg of this polymer was dissolved in 100 ml distilled water and after purging with oxygen - free nitrogen was irradiated with a dose of 0 . 40 megarad of cobalt 60 γ - rays . a . f . m . analysis of the resulting particles showed spherical particles with an average diameter of 7 . 5 nanometers . the a . f . m . picture of the particles is presented as fig4 hereof . a 1 % solution of these particles in water showed very little increase over that of water itself . internal cross - linking can be carried out by other means besides γ radiation . in some cases , irradiation of the aqueous dispersion with high intensity u . v . laser light will cause internal cross - linking . a simpler procedure is to prepare a copolymer with a small number of double bonds which can be connected by vinyl polymerization . in this example a copolymer of 50 % styrene sulfonate and 48 % vinyl naphthalene and 2 % divinyl benzene was prepared as in example 3 . 100 mg of this polymer was dissolved in 100 ml of water to which was slowly added with stirring 1 . 0 cc of benzene containing 4 mg styrene and 1 mg of albn ( azobis - iso - butyryl nitrile ). after purging with nitrogen 2 cc of this mixture was heated to 70 ° c . for 5 hours with stirring . after isolation and purification by dialysis spherical nanoparticles were observed by a . f . m . an additional 2 cc of the solution prepared in example 4 was shaken with a small amount of styrene monomer and allowed to separate . excess styrene was removed and the polymer was internally cross - linked by exposure of the solution to near ultraviolet light ( λ = 313 nm from the american ultraviolet irradiation system for 1 hour . after isolation and purification cross - linked nanoparticles with the viscosity properties of the γ irradiated materials from example 1 and 2 were produced . poly n - isopropyl acrylamide ( nipam ) is an important polymer which is often used in drug delivery systems . it has a lower critical solution temperature ( lcst ) of 31 ° c . it is soluble in water below this temperature but precipitates sharply above this . this temperature can be lowered by copolymerization with hydrophobic monomers such as acrylonitrile and raised by hydrophilic monomers such as acrylamide . these co - polymers can be internally cross - linked by any of the procedures described above . in a specific example 100 mg of poly nipam with a molecular weight of 200 , 000 g / mole was dissolved in 100 ml water at 20 ° c . and was cross - linked with 10 megarads of γ radiation . after isolation and purification , the internally cross - linked 5 - 10 nm nanoparticles can be used for the controlled delivery of other organic compounds . for example the drug can be absorbed by the collapsed particle in a water dispersion above lcst . after removal of the unabsorbed drug , the dispersion will remain stable until the temperature of the water is reduced below lcst , at which point the particle swells and slowly releases the drug . since the size of the internally cross - linked nanoparticle is extremely small (˜ 10 nm ) it can access almost any part of the human body including the smallest blood capillaries which makes it of interest in a variety of medical therapies . the delivery polymers can also be made sensitive to ph instead of temperature . polymers such as nipam , polyacrylamide and polyethylene oxide , which do not contain ionized groups , are difficult to keep separate in water solution while the cross - linking process is taking place . this reduces the yield and purify of the desired internally cross - linked nanoparticles . cleaner products and higher conversions can be achieved by including an ionizable comonomer . a copolymer of 2 % acrylic acid and 98 % nipam was prepared . at a ph of about 8 - 9 in water most of the acrylic acid units will be ionized , thus giving a strong negative charge to each polymer molecule . at high dilution , this prevents the agglomeration of individual chains to form larger particles . 100 mg of this polymer was internally cross - linked by the procedure of example 6 . a . f . m . studies of the internally cross - linked particles showed a much lower concentration of larger agglomerated particles than those prepared in example 6 . a solution of sodium polyacrylate was prepared as in example 1 , and after the addition of sodium chloride , 4 mg of 4 , 4 ′- diazidostilbene - 2 , 2 ′ sodium sulfite dissolved in 1 cc benzene was added slowly with continuous stirring . after flushing with nitrogen , the ampoule was sealed and irradiated for 1 hour with 313 nm u . v . light in the american ultraviolet irradiation system . after irradiation the product was isolated by freeze drying and purified by dialysis as in example 1 . a . f . m . measurements showed particles similar to those found in example 1 . nanoparticles of polyacrylic acid sodium salt prepared according to example 1 were dialysed against dilute hydrochloric acid to remove the sodium ions , and then treated with excess silver nitrate in aqueous solution to form the silver salt of the acrylic acid groups in the polymer particles . irradiation of these particles in aqueous dispersion with γ - radiation ( 10 mrad ) gave a dark orange solution . the uv - visible spectrum shown in fig5 shows peaks corresponding to the well - known surface plasmon of silver colloids of size smaller than the wavelength of light , indicating that the silver ions have been reduced to metallic silver . the silver colloids are much more stable than those reported in the literature , as indicated by the fact that the plasmon band intensity did not change for many weeks after preparation . after isolation of the particles and drying of them , spherical particles of diameter about 5 nm were observed by afm . an electron microscope examination ( tem ), fig6 , shows that the spherical silver particles are surrounded by a hazy region believed to be unreacted polymer , a possible factor in the enhanced stability of the silver nanoparticles . the average diameter of the reduced silver particles was 3 . 5 ± 0 . 53 nm . the diameter of the exterior , including the hazy region , was 5 . 2 ± 0 . 8 nm . the particle size distribution is shown on fig7 . similar results were obtained by irradiation of the original salt particles with an intense laser pulse from a picosecond quadrupled nd : yag laser or xef excimer laser , and by a chemical reducing agent such as sodium in liquid ammonia . similar experiments with iron and copper salts gave similar results , with aqueous solutions giving rise to various colours , depending upon the size of the particles . further evidence of encapsulated particles is shown on fig8 , raman spectra , showing the surface enhanced raman effect of silver nanoparticles on poly acrylic acid , paa . in the absence of the reduced metal , the raman peaks for pure polyacrylic acid are hardly discernible , but after the silver salt is reduced to metallic silver , strong enhanced raman peaks are observable . this is strong evidence for the encapsulation of the silver particles by the remaining polymer from the original particle . this coating can be easily removed by washing with a suitable solvent , or by heating to 300 ° c . or higher in a reducing atmosphere . larger particles of polyacrylic acid salts and other polymers for the preparation of metal particles by the process of the invention can be made by emulsion polymerization in the absence of surfactant , by the method of o &# 39 ; callaghan et . al . journal of applied plymer science , vol 58 , 2047 - 2055 ( 1995 ). this paper describes a method of making monodisperse polymer latices with sizes of 40 nm and higher . by following the procedure of this paper , there was prepared a copolymer of butyl acrylate ( 30 %) with acrylic acid ( 70 %), cross - linked with 3 % divinylbenzene . the average size of these partides was 230 ± 20 nm . treatment with silver nitrate as in example 9 followed by laser irradiation with the nd : yag laser while stirring the aqueous dispersion gave silver containing nanoparticles about 200 nm in diameter . | US-41296406-A |
a speed changing mechanism includes a pump including a liquid suction channel , a liquid drainage channel and working components moving relatively to each other forming working volumes . a relative movement of the working component leads to a periodic increase and decrease of the working volume , so that the fluid is sucked through the liquid suction channel and discharged through the liquid drainage channel , and the pressure energy discharging the fluid is increased by the excursion of the working components . a part of working components is connected to an input component , another part of working components are connected to an output component . the movement of the part of working components relative to another part of working components is changed by changing the flow rate of the pump . therefore , the speed changing mechanism can realize the switch - on / off of power transmission and change the transmitted power . | a speed changing mechanism , as shown in fig1 , comprises an outer - engaged gear pump 1 which comprises two pairs of engaged gears installed within a casing 2 . a center gear 3 is engaged with a first planetary gear 4 and a second planetary gear 14 , respectively . a cover fastened to the casing is provided at two sides of the gears . the casing , the cover and every slot between the gear teeth form a plurality of sealing working chambers ( i . e . working volumes ). when the gears rotate along the direction as shown in fig2 , the engaged gear teeth of the center gear 3 and the first planetary gear 4 are gradually disengaged from each other , the sealing working volume is gradually increased , so that an oil suction chamber 5 , provided at a right side of the center gear 3 and the first planetary gear 4 , forms the partial vacuum . therefore , under the effect of the external atmospheric pressure , the oil ( or other fluids ) enters into the oil suction chamber via a liquid suction channel 6 , so that the slots between the gear teeth are filled up and the oil is brought into an oil pressure chamber 7 provided at a left side of the center gear 3 and the first planetary gear 4 with the rotation of the gears . at the oil pressure region , the gear teeth gradually begin to engage with each other , the volume of the sealing working chamber is gradually decreased , the oil is excluded and sent to a liquid drainage channel ( pressure pipeline ) 8 from the oil pressure chamber . the engaged gear teeth of the center gear 3 and the second planetary gear 14 are gradually disengaged from each other , the sealing working volume is gradually increased , so that an oil suction chamber 15 , provided at a left side of the center gear 3 and the second planetary gear 14 , forms the partial vacuum . therefore , under the effect of the external atmospheric pressure , the oil enters into the oil suction chamber via a liquid suction channel ( which is not shown ), so that the slots between the gear teeth are filled up and the oil is brought into an oil pressure chamber 17 provided at another side of the center gear 3 and the second planetary gear 14 with the rotation of the gears . at the oil pressure region , the gear teeth gradually begin to engage with each other , the volume of the sealing working chamber gradually is decreased , the oil is excluded and sent to a liquid drainage channel ( pressure pipeline which is not shown ) from the oil pressure chamber . a casing , a cover , a center gear , a first planetary gear and a second planetary gear are main working components of the gear pump . a center gear shaft 9 is connected with an input component ( not shown ) which drives the center gear shaft to rotate . an output gear 12 as an output component is rotatablely ( sleevedly ) connected with a rotating shaft 13 . the rotating shaft 13 is coaxially aligned with the center gear shaft 9 . an extension end of a first planetary gear shaft 10 and a second planetary gear shaft 20 extending from the cover is connected with an end surface of the output gear 12 . a flow valve 11 is provided at the liquid drainage channel 8 . when the flow rate of the flow valve 11 is zero ( namely , the liquid drainage channel is completely blocked ), the pump can not discharge oil , the working volume of the pump can not be changed , so that the center gear can not move relatively to the first planetary gear ( of course , the center gear also can not move relatively to the second planetary gear ). therefore , the input component can not move relatively to the output component , which results in achieving the full power transmission from the input component to the output component . when the liquid drainage channel is completely open , the flow rate of the liquid drainage channel is not limited , the pump can freely discharge oil without obstacle , the working volume of the pump is constantly changed for sucking or discharging oil . accordingly , the center gear can freely move relatively to the first planetary gear and the second planetary gear . therefore , the input component can freely move relatively to the output component , which results in achieving the unpowered transmission from the input component to the output component . when the liquid drainage channel is in the intermediate state of the complete plugging and the fully open , the liquid drainage channel has a certain flow rate . meanwhile , the oil can not successfully pass through the pump , a certain pressure is produced within the pump , thereby a force is produced between the center gear and the first planetary gear , namely , a force is produced between the input component and the output component . therefore , a certain power transmission is produced between the input component and the output component . the smaller the flow rate of the liquid drainage channel , the greater the power transmission , which is the partially power transmission mode . referring to fig3 , a speed changing mechanism comprises a rotor pump which comprises a pump body 2 , an outer rotor 4 , an inner rotor 3 disposed within the outer rotor . an inner rotor shaft 9 drives the inner rotor 3 to rotate , and the inner rotor drives the outer rotor to rotate . the tooth profile of every tooth of the inner rotor always keeps the point contact with the tooth profile of every tooth of the outer rotor , so that four working chambers ( i . e . working volumes ) are formed among the inner and outer rotors and the pump body . the inner and outer rotors rotate along the direction of the arrow shown in fig3 , when a working chamber rotates to the liquid suction channel 6 , the volume is increased , and the vacuum is produced , thereby the liquid is sucked into the working chamber from the liquid suction channel . with the continuous rotation of the inner and outer rotors , when the working chamber rotates to a position which is communicated with the liquid drainage channel 8 , the volume is decreased , and the hydraulic pressure is increased , thereby the liquid is pressed into the liquid drainage channel 8 . the pump body 2 , the outer rotor 4 , and the inner rotor 3 are main working components of the rotor pump . a flow valve 11 is provided at the liquid drainage channel 8 . the inner rotor shaft is connected with an input shaft ( not shown ) which acts as an input component and drives the inner rotor shaft to rotate . the pump body 2 and the output gear 12 as the output component are a whole ( the gear teeth are provided at a peripheral edge of the pump body 2 , thereby forming the output gear 12 ). when the flow rate of the flow valve 11 is zero ( namely , the liquid drainage channel is completely blocked ), the rotor pump can not discharge oil , and the working volume of the rotor pump can not be changed , so that the outer rotor , the inner rotor and the pump body can not move relatively to each other . therefore , the input shaft connected with the inner rotor shaft can not move relatively to the output gear 12 , which results in achieving the full power transmission from the input shaft to the output gear . when the liquid drainage channel is completely open ( the flow valve 11 is completely open ), the flow rate of the liquid drainage channel is not limited , the rotor pump can freely discharge oil ( or other fluids ) without obstacle , the working volume of the rotor pump is constantly changed for sucking or discharging oil . therefore , the outer rotor , the inner rotor and the pump body can freely move relatively to each other , and the input shaft can freely move relatively to the output gear , which results in achieving the unpowered transmission from the input component to the output component . when the liquid drainage channel is in the intermediate state of the complete plugging and the fully open , the liquid drainage channel has a certain flow rate . meanwhile , the oil can not successfully pass through the pump , a certain pressure is produced within the pump , thereby a force is produced among the inner rotor shaft , the pump body and the outer rotor , namely , a force is produced between the input component and the output component . therefore , a certain power transmission is produced between the input component and the output component . the smaller the flow rate of the liquid drainage channel , the greater the power transmission , which is the partially power transmission mode . therefore , the power transmission between the input shaft and the output gear can be controlled by controlling the flow valve . referring to fig4 , a speed changing mechanism comprises a vane pump which comprises a pump body 2 , a stator 4 fastened to the pump body , a rotor 3 , a plurality of blades 5 and an oil distribution disk . a plurality of blades slots are provided at a peripheral edge of the rotor 3 . the blades 5 are provided within the blade slots . the oil distribution disk is provided at two sides of the stator and the rotor . the liquid suction channel 6 and the liquid drainage channel 8 are provided at the oil distribution disk . a plurality of working chambers ( i . e . working volumes ) are formed among the stator , the rotor , the blades and the oil distribution disk . when the rotor shaft 9 drives the rotor to rotate within the stator , under the effect of the centrifugal force and hydraulic pressure , the outer end of each of the blades is against an inner wall of the stator , and each of the blades slides back and forth within the corresponding blade slot . when each of the blades moves from the short radius to the long radius , the working volume among the blades is increased , the pressure is decreased , so that the oil is sucked via the liquid suction channel of the oil distribution disk . when each of the blades moves from the long radius to the short radius , the working volume among the blades is decreased , so that the oil is discharged via the liquid drainage channel of the oil distribution disk . the pump body , the stator , the rotor , the oil distribution disk and the blades are main working components of the vane pump . a flow valve 11 is provided at the liquid drainage channel 8 . the rotor shaft is connected with the input shaft as the input component ( not shown ). the pump body 2 and the output gear 12 as the output component are a whole ( the gear teeth are provided at a peripheral edge of the pump body 2 , thereby forming the output gear 12 ). when the flow rate of the flow valve 11 is zero ( namely , the liquid drainage channel is completely blocked ), the vane pump can not discharge oil ( or other fluids ), and the working volume of the vane pump can not be changed , so that the stator , the rotor and the blade can not move relatively to each other . therefore , the input shaft connected with the rotor shaft 9 can not move relatively to the output gear 12 , which results in achieving the full power transmission from the input shaft to the output gear . when the liquid drainage channel is completely open ( the flow valve 11 is completely open ), the flow rate of the drainage channel is not limited , the vane pump can freely discharge oil without obstacle , the working volume of the vane pump is constantly changed for sucking or discharging oil . therefore , the stator , the rotor and the blades can freely move relatively to each other , and the input shaft can freely move relatively to the output gear , which results in achieving the unpowered transmission from the input component to the output component . when the liquid drainage channel is in the intermediate state of the complete plugging and the fully open , the liquid drainage channel has a certain flow rate . meanwhile , the oil can not successfully pass through the pump , a certain pressure is produced within the pump , thereby a force is produced among the stator , the blades , the rotor and the oil distribution disk , namely , a force is produced between the input component and the output component . therefore , a certain power transmission is produced between the input component and the output component . the smaller the flow rate of the liquid drainage channel , the greater the power transmission , which is the partially power transmission mode . therefore , the power transmission between the input shaft and the output gear can be controlled by controlling the flow valve . referring to fig5 - 9 , a pump - type stepped automatic transmission comprises two gear pumps 100 and 200 . every gear pump comprises a pump body consisting of a pump casing 1 and a cover 2 , a central gear 3 and four planetary gears 4 . a center of the pump casing has a center gear cavity for disposing the center gear 3 . the center gear 3 can rotate relatively to the pump body ( the pump casing and the cover ). the four planetary gears 4 are evenly distributed at a peripheral edge of the center gear 3 which is engaged with the four planetary gears 4 . the four planetary gears are disposed within the planetary gear cavity which is provided at the pump casing . the planetary gears 4 are rotatablely connected with the planetary gear shaft 5 ( the planetary gears 4 can rotate relatively to the planetary gear shaft ). one end of the planetary gear shaft 5 is supported on the cover 2 , and the other end of the planetary gear shaft 5 is supported on a side wall of the pump casing . an oil ring 6 , which is capable of rotate relatively to the pump casing of every gear pump , is provided at a peripheral edge of the pump casing of every gear pump . an inner peripheral surface of the oil ring has an annular liquid inlet passage 7 and an annular liquid outlet passage 8 . the pump casing has four liquid suction channels 9 and four liquid drainage channels 10 which are basically extended along the radial direction of the pump casing . the inner port of each of the liquid suction channels and the inner port of each of the liquid drainage channels are communicated with two sides of the engaging portion of the center gear and the planetary gear , respectively . the inner port of each of the liquid suction channels and the inner port of each of the liquid drainage channels are communicated with the annular liquid inlet passage and the annular liquid outlet passage , respectively . two oil rings 6 are fastened to the pump casing of the hydraulic pressure control valve component 13 . the liquid inlet pathway 11 and the liquid outlet pathway 12 disposed within the hydraulic pressure control valve component 13 and the oil rings 6 are communicated with the annular liquid inlet passage 7 and the annular liquid outlet passage 8 . the hydraulic pressure control valve component 13 comprises a flow control device and a one - way valve . the flow control device ( i . e ., throttle valve ) 14 and the one - way valve 15 are disposed at the liquid inlet pathway 11 in parallel . the flow control device 16 and the one - way valve 17 are disposed at the liquid outlet pathway 12 in parallel . the one - way valves 15 and 17 only allow the fluid to flow into the pump . the output component is the output shaft 18 which passes through the center gear 3 , the pump casing and the cover of the two pumps . the input component comprises the input shaft 19 , the first stepped driving gear 20 and the second stepped driving gear 21 which are fastened to the input shaft , the first stepped driven gear ( transmission gear ) 22 and the second stepped driven gear ( transmission gear ) 23 rotatablely connected with the output shaft ( the first stepped driven gear 22 and the second stepped driven gear 23 can rotate relatively to the output shaft ). the first stepped driving gear 20 is engaged with the first stepped driven gear 22 , which results in forming a gear transmission mechanism 24 . the second stepped driving gear 21 is engaged with the second stepped driven gear 23 , which results in forming another gear transmission mechanism 25 . the transmission ratio of the gear transmission mechanism 24 is larger than that of the gear transmission mechanism 25 . referring to fig1 , the connection relationship among the input shaft , the gear pump and the output shaft is described as follows . the center gears 3 of the two gear pumps are rotatablely connected with the output shaft 18 ( the center gears 3 can rotate relatively to the output shaft 18 ), and fixedly connected with the first stepped driven gear 22 and the second stepped driven gear 23 , respectively . the output shaft 18 is fixedly connected with the cover 2 of the two gear pumps at a peripheral edge ( i . e ., which is connected via the spline ). of course , referring to fig7 , the connection relationship among the input shaft , the gear pump and the output shaft also can be described as follows . the pump bodies ( the pump casing 1 and the cover 2 ) of the two gear pumps are rotatablely connected with the output shaft 18 ( the pump bodies can rotate relatively to the output shaft 18 ), and fixedly connected with the first stepped driven gear 22 and the second stepped driven gear 23 , respectively . the output shaft 18 is fixedly connected with the center gears 3 of the two gear pumps at a peripheral edge ( i . e ., which is connected via the spline ). the connection relationship among the input shaft , the gear pump and the output shaft also can be described as follows . the pump body ( the pump casing 1 and the cover 2 ) of the gear pump 100 is rotatablely connected with the output shaft 18 ( the pump body can rotate relatively to the output shaft 18 ), and fixedly connected with the first stepped driven gear 22 ( or the second stepped driven gear 23 ). the output shaft 18 is fixedly connected with the center gear 3 of the gear pump 100 at a peripheral edge ( i . e ., which is connected via the spline ). the center gear 3 of the gear pump 200 is rotatablely connected with the output shaft 18 ( the center gear 3 can rotate relatively to the output shaft 18 ) and fixedly connected with the second stepped driven gear 23 ( or the first stepped driven gear 22 ). the output shaft 18 is fixedly connected with the cover 2 of the gear pump 200 at a peripheral edge ( i . e ., which is connected via the spline ). in the input components mentioned above , the transmission gear is the first stepped driven gear 22 and the second stepped driven gear 23 which are connected with the input shaft 19 via the gear transmission mechanisms 24 and 25 , respectively . it is worth to mention that the transmission gear is not limited to the gear , the transmission mechanism between the transmission gear and the input shaft is also not limited to the gear transmission mechanism . for example , the transmission gear can be the pulley which can be connected with the input shaft via the belt . the pump casing , the cover , the center gear and the planetary gear engaged with the center gear are working components of the gear pump . when the flow control devices 14 and 16 are open , the center gear rotates relatively to the planetary gear , the fluid is sucked into a side of the engaging portion of the center gear and the planetary gear through the liquid inlet pathway 11 , the annular liquid inlet passage 7 and the liquid suction channel 9 , and then is extruded by the relatively rotated center gear and the planetary gear for forming the high - pressure fluid , and then flows out from another side of the engaging portion of the center gear and the planetary gear through the liquid drainage channel 10 , the annular liquid outlet passage 8 and the liquid outlet pathway 12 . of course , when the center gear and the planetary gear rotate relatively to each other at an opposite direction , the fluid flows at an opposite direction . referring to fig1 , based on the connection relationship among the input shaft , the gear pump and the output shaft transmission , the working process of the stepped automatic transmission is described as below . at this time , the flow control devices 14 and 16 for controlling the fluid in and out of the gear pump 100 , and the flow control devices 14 and 16 for controlling the fluid in and out of the gear pump 200 are open . referring to fig1 , at this time , the 1 st stepped driven gear 22 and the 2 nd stepped driven 23 are driven by the input shaft to clockwise rotate ( idling ) around the output shaft 18 . of course , the transmission ratio of the gear transmission mechanism 24 is larger than that of the gear transmission mechanism 25 , so the rotational speed of the 1 st stepped driven gear 22 is smaller than that of the 2 nd stepped driven gear 23 . the 1 st stepped driven gear 22 drives the center gear 3 of the gear pump 100 to rotate around the output shaft 18 ( idling ), and the 2 nd stepped driven 23 drives the center gear 3 of the gear pump 200 to rotate around the output shaft 18 ( idling ). if the output shaft 18 also rotates clockwise , the rotational speed thereof is smaller than that of the 1 st stepped driven gear 22 . at this time , the fluid ( i . e ., hydraulic oil ) enters into the gear pumps 100 and 200 through the flow control device 14 , the liquid inlet pathway 11 , the annular liquid inlet passage 7 , and the liquid suction channel 9 , and then forms the high - pressure fluid through the extrusion of the center gear and the planetary gear , and then flows out through the liquid drainage channel 10 , the annular liquid outlet passage 8 , the liquid outlet pathway 12 and the flow control device 16 . because the liquid drainage channels of the two gear pumps are completely open , when the flow rates of the liquid drainage channels are not limited , the gear pump can freely discharge oil without hindrance , the working volume is continuously changed for sucking and discharging oil , the center gear can arbitrarily move relatively to the planetary gear , and the input shaft can freely move relatively to the output shaft , thereby unpowered transmission is achieved from the input component to the output component . while linking to the first step , the flow control device 16 of the gear pump 100 is gradually turned off , such that the fluid discharged from the gear pump 100 is gradually decreased till it stops . referring to fig1 , the center gear and the planetary gear of the gear pump 100 can not rotate relatively to each other , the pump casing and the cover of the gear pump 100 only can rotate together with the center gear , the cover of the gear pump 100 drives the output shaft to rotate , the center gear , the pump body and the output shaft clockwise rotate along the same direction for completing the link to the step , thereby the complete power transmission is achieved from the input shaft to the output shaft . at this time , the fluid within the liquid inlet pathway 11 , the annular liquid inlet passage and the liquid suction channel which are communicated with the gear pump 100 is at low pressure , and the fluid within the liquid outlet pathway 12 , the annular liquid outlet passage and the liquid drainage channel is at high pressure . when the flow control device 16 is at the intermediate state of the complete blockage and the full open , the fluid discharged from the gear pump 100 has a certain flow rate . at this time , the fluid can not successfully pass through the gear pump 100 , so that a certain pressure is produced within the gear pump 100 , thereby producing a certain force between the center gear and the planetary gear of the gear pump 100 . therefore , a certain power transmission is provided between the input shaft and the output shaft . the smaller the flow rate of the discharged fluid , the greater the transmission power , which is the partial power transmission mode . shift from the 1 st step to the 2 nd step : the process of linking to the 2 nd step is the same as that of linking to the 1 st step , in which all operations are adapted for the gear pump 200 . it is worth to mention that the state of the gear pump 100 is changed from the 1 st step to the 2 nd step . while linking to the 2 nd step , the rotational speed of the 2 nd stepped driven gear 23 is higher than that of the 1 st stepped driven gear 22 ( the transmission ratio of the gear transmission mechanism 24 is larger than that of the gear transmission mechanism 25 ), the output shaft 18 clockwise rotates along with the 2 nd stepped driven gear 23 after linking to the 2 nd step , and the rational speed of the output shaft 18 is higher than that of the pump body of the gear pump 100 . therefore , if the output shaft 18 is regarded as a reference , the pump body of the gear pump 100 counterclockwise rotates . at this time , referring to fig1 , the flow direction of the fluid within the gear pump 100 is opposite to that of the fluid while linking to the 1 st step , namely , the fluid flows into the gear pump 100 through the liquid outlet pathway 12 , and then flows out through the liquid inlet pathway 11 . meanwhile , for the gear pump 100 , the fluid within the liquid inlet pathway 11 , the annular liquid inlet passage and the liquid suction channel which are communicated with the gear pump 100 is at high pressure , and the liquid drainage channel , the annular liquid outlet passage and the liquid outlet pathway 12 which are communicated with the gear pump 100 is at low pressure ( the fluid within the liquid inlet pathway 11 , the annular liquid inlet passage and the liquid suction channel which are communicated with the gear pump 200 is at low pressure , and the liquid drainage channel , the annular liquid outlet passage and the liquid outlet pathway 12 which are communicated with the gear pump 200 is at high pressure ). after linking to the 1 st step , the flow control device 14 of the gear pump 100 is open , so that while linking to the 2 nd step , the fluid can be discharged through the liquid inlet pathway 11 and then the flow control device 14 . simultaneously , after linking to the 1 st step , the flow control device 16 of the gear pump 100 is closed , and the one - way valve 17 is connected with the flow control device 16 in parallel . therefore , while linking to the 2 nd step , referring to fig1 , the fluid can flow into the gear pump 100 through the one - way valve 17 and then the liquid outlet pathway 12 . as a result , the pump - type stepped automatic transmission achieves the shift without power interruption . when the flow control devices 14 and 16 of the gear pump 100 ( the flow control devices are disposed at the liquid outlet pathway and the liquid inlet pathway which are communicated with the gear pump 100 ) are closed , and the flow control devices 14 and 16 of the gear pump 200 ( the flow control devices are disposed at the liquid outlet pathway and the liquid inlet pathway which are communicated with the gear pump 200 ) are open , referring to fig1 , the fluid can not flow out of the gear pump 100 , the liquid inlet pathway 11 and the liquid outlet pathway 12 are at high pressure . at this time , the 1 st stepped driven gear 22 can drive the output shaft 18 to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise for achieving the bidirectional transmission . while the leakage of the pump appears , the one - way valves 15 and 17 are open for supplying the fluid to the pump . of course , when the flow control devices 14 and 16 of the gear pump 200 are closed , the flow control devices 14 and 16 of the gear pump 100 are open , the 2 nd stepped driven gear 23 can drive the output shaft 18 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise for achieving the bidirectional transmission , whose principle is the same as the principle mentioned above . the present invention adopts the pump ( which can be the gear pump , the vane pump and other pump capable of changing the pressure of the fluid ) to achieve the control of the power transmission , the active part ( such as the pump shaft or other active parts ) and the driven part ( such as the pump casing or other active parts ) are connected with the input component and the output component of the speed change mechanism , respectively ( of course , the active part and the driven part can connected with the output and input components of the speed change mechanism ), the pump rotates together with the input or output component . by the solenoid valve and other components which can control the flow rate of the fluid , the flow rate of the fluid in and out of the pump ( the out flow rate can be separately controlled , or the into flow rate be separately controlled , or the into and out flow rate can be simultaneously controlled ), thereby the power transmission between the input component and the output component can be controlled . | US-201013502139-A |
the invention provides a clathrate comprising a cyclodextrin or hydroxyalkylated cyclodextrin and , as included therein , dl - α - tocopheryl l - ascorbyl phosphate . in another aspect , the invention provides a dermal composition for external use , particularly a cosmetic composition . the composition is characterized by reduced foam production in aqueous solution and good stability against light . | cyclodextrin ( hereinafter referred to briefly as cd ) for use in the present invention is an oligosaccharide composed of glucose residues linked by α - 1 , 4 linkages into a cyclic structure , and generally there are known α - cd consisting of 6 glucose residues , β - cd consisting of 7 glucose residues , and γ - cd consisting of 8 glucose residues . each of those cyclodextrin species is capable of including a guest molecule suited to the size of its cavity . since the guest molecule for use in the present invention is the alkyl side chain of the tocopheryl moiety of epc , β - cd among them is suitable . of course , a starch hydrolysate containing all of α -, β - and γ - cds can be employed . the hydroxyalkylated cyclodextrin ( hereinafter referred to briefly as hacd ) is a compound available on substitution of one or more hydroxyalkyl groups into the oh groups of a cd which is well known as a cyclic oligosaccharide . thus , hydroxyalkyl groups are introduced into the oh -- groups of cd to enhance the hydrophobicity of the cavity . the hydroxyalkyl group that is generally used for substituting the oh groups of a cd includes hydroxyethyl and hydroxypropyl . by conducting this substitution reaction for oh groups , the objective hacd can be obtained . hacd includes hydroxyethylcyclodextrin , hydroxypropylcyclodextrin , hydroxybutylcyclodextrin , and dihydroxypropylcyclodextrin , among others . the preferred degree of substitution of oh by hydroxyalkyl for the purposes of the invention is 1 - 14 per cd . in consideration of the cost and ease of production , handlability , and water solubility , the preferred species of hacd are 2 - hydroxyethyl - β - cd , 2 - hydroxypropyl - β - cd , 3 - hydroxypropyl - β - cd , and 2 , 3 - dihydroxypropyl - β - cd , although those are not exclusive choices . several processes are known for the production of hacd . the following is a typical known process . in 150 ml of 20 % aqueous solution of naoh is dissolved 100 g of β - cd ( tradename : celdex n , manufactured by nihon shokuhin kako ) and while the solution is held at 30 ° c ., 50 ml of propylene oxide is added gradually dropwise . the reaction is carried out with stirring for 20 hours . this reaction mixture is neutralized with hydrochloric acid to ph 6 . 0 , placed in a dialyzing tube , and desalted using running water for 24 hours . the desalted product is dried with a freeze dryer to provide about 90 g of hydroxypropylated β - cd . the degree of substitution of this hydroxypropylated β - cd is 5 . 1 per cd . the guest epc of the clathrate of the invention is dl - β - tocopherol ( vitamin e ) l - ascorbic acid ( vitamin c ) diester of phosphoric acid . ascorbic acid is of use as an anti - scurvy drug based on its collagen synthesis - stimulating activity , thus preventing deposition of melanoid pigments , the cause of freckles , and , as reported more recently , has anticancer activity . on the other hand , dl - α - tocopherol ( vitamin e ) has the property to activate the gonad and pituitary - adrenal system , stabilizes the plasma membrane of peripheral vascular endothelial cells , and reduces platelet aggregation and adhesion to improve peripheral circulation . furthermore , dl - α - tocopherol has potent antioxidant activity to prevent damage of tissues by peroxylipids . the technology for coupling those two biologically important substances , namely the water - soluble vitamin c ( ascorbic acid ) and the fat - soluble vitamin e ( tocopherol ), was developed and , as a consequence , the compound epc consisting of one molecule each of those vitamins coupled in the form of phosphoric acid diester was synthesized . epc can be clathrated in the form of a salt and , as examples of such salt , the potassium ( k ) salt , sodium ( na ) salt , and magnesium ( mg ) salt can be mentioned . preferred is the potassium salt ( i . e . epc - k ). heretofore , fat - soluble vitamin e derivatives such as vitamin e acetate have been used as antioxidants but in order to use them a surfactant is required . however , ionic surfactants such as alkyl sulfates and higher fatty acid salts are liable to irritate the skin when used in high concentrations . on the other hand , nonionic surfactants such as polyoxyethylene series surfactants inactivate antiseptics , such as hydroxybenzoic esters which are commonly formulated , and have the compatibility problem . in contrast , epc which is used in the present invention has high antioxidant activity and does not require a surfactant for dissolution in aqueous medium . the above - mentioned clathrate consisting of epc and a cyclodextrin or hydroxyalkylated cyclodextrin in a molar ratio of 1 : 1 or 1 : 2 ( fig1 and 2 ) can be produced by mixing epc with the cyclodextrin in water with stirring . thus , as the alkyl side chain of the oleophilic tocopheryl moiety of epc - k is included in a β - cyclodextrin or hydroxyalkylated β - cyclodextrin molecule to thereby reduce said surface activity , foam production is suppressed and the light stability of the product is also improved . as mentioned above , this clathrate is a 1 : 1 or 1 : 2 clathrate consisting of epc - k and either β - cyclodextrin or a hydroxyalkylated β - cyclodextrin . by using this clathrate in a topical dermal composition , there can be obtained a pharmaceutical or cosmetic product with high stability and safety , reduced foam production , satisfactory light resistance , and good moisture - retaining and antioxidant properties . an emulsion containing this clathrate is preferably an oil - in - water emulsion and this is particularly true with cosmetic products . an aqueous solution ( e . g . a lotion ) of this clathrate prepared without addition of a surfactant is also of value . the epc clathrate of the invention should be used in a sufficient amount to let its efficacy fully develop . the preferred proportion of the clathrate in a cosmetic composition is 0 . 001 to 10 weight % based on the total weight of the composition . except that the epc clathrate of the invention is added , such a cosmetic composition can be manufactured in accordance with the established cosmetic production procedure . in the present invention , within the range not interferring with the effect of the invention , excipients and other ingredients can be added according to the desired application form or type of product . thus , the cosmetic composition of the invention may contain a variety of additives including powdery substances such as titanium dioxide , mica powder , talc , kaolin , titanium dioxide - covered mica , etc . ; natural oils of the vegetable or animal origin , such as primrose oil , avocado oil , mink oil , macademia nut oil , corn oil , rapeseed oil , castor oil , sunflower oil , cacao oil , coconut oil , rice bran oil , tsubaki oil , olive oil , lanolin , squalene , etc . ; hydrocarbons such as liquid paraffin , squalane , white petrolatum , etc . ; waxes such as paraffin wax , lanolin , jojoba oil , sperm wax , bees wax , candelilla wax , carnauba wax , etc . ; higher alcohols such as cetanol , stearyl alcohol , isostearyl alcohol , 2 - octyldodecanol , lanolin alcohol , etc . ; higher fatty acids such as lauric acid , myristic acid , palmitic acid , stearic acid , behenic acid , isostearic acid , oleic acid , linolenic acid , linoleic acid , hydroxystearic acid , etc . ; fatty acid esters such as isopropyl myristate , 2 - octyldodecyl myristate , isopropyl palmitate , isopropyl stearate , glyceryl 2 - ethylhexanoate , glyceryl tri ( 2 - ethylhexanoate ), cetyl 2 - ethylhexanoate , diisostearyl malate , tetra ( 2 - ethylhexane ) pentaerythritol , etc . ; polar oils such as diethylene glycol monopropyl ether , polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene pentaerythritol ether , polyoxypropylene butyl ether , ethyl linolate , etc . ; silicone oils such as methylpolysiloxane , methylphenylpolysiloxane , etc . ; thickners such as methylcellulose , gum arabic , polyvinyl alcohol , montmorillonite , rhaponite , carboxyvinyl polymer , alkyl - modified carboxyvinyl polymer , etc . ; organic solvents such as ethanol , 1 , 3 - butylene glycol , etc . ; antioxidants and auxiliary antioxidants such as butylhydroxytoluene , tocopherol , butylhydroxyanisole , gallic acid esters , phytic acid , malic acid , etc . ; antibacterial antiseptics such as benzoic acid , salicylic acid , sorbic acid , alkyl p - hydroxybenzoates ( ethylparaben , butylparaben , etc . ), hexachlorophene , etc . ; nonionic surfactants such as sorbitan monolaurate , sorbitan sesquioleate , sorbitan trioleate , polyoxyethylated sorbitan monolaurate , polyethylene glycol monooleate , polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers , polyglycol diesters , lauroyldiethanolamide , fatty acid isopropanolamides , maltitol hydroxy - fatty acid ethers , alkylated polysaccharides , alkylglycosides , sugar esters , panthonyl ethyl ether , etc . ; cationic surfactants such as stearyltrimethylammonium chloride , benzalkonium chloride , laurylamine oxide , etc . ; anionic surfactants such as sodium palmitate , sodium laurate , potassium lauryl sulfate , alkyl sulfate triethanolamine ether , turkey red oil , linear dodecylbenzenesulfonates , polyoxyethylated hydrogenated castor oil maleate , acylmethyl taurides , etc . ; chelating agents such as edta sodium etc . ; refresheners such as menthol , mint oil , peppermint oil , camphor , thymol inositol , spilanthol , methyl salicylate , etc . ; colors ; perfumes , and purified water . one or more of those ingredients can be selectively employed . the preferred composition comprising the clathrate of the invention is as follows . ______________________________________ formulation preferred amount ( weight %) range ( weight %) ______________________________________cyclodextrin 0 . 005 - 20 1 - 5epc - k 0 . 001 - 7 0 . 005 - 0 . 2deionized water to 100 to 100______________________________________ the cosmetic composition of the present invention can be provided in a variety of application forms such as toilet water , vanishing cream , milk lotion , cold cream , cleansing cream , foundation cream , hand cream , cosmetic cocktail , and ointment , among others . the following examples are merely intended to illustrate the present invention in further detail and should by no means be construed as defining the scope of the invention . first , the inventors of the present invention studied the physicochemical properties of the epc - k / hydroxyalkylated β - cyclodextrin clathrate of the invention . thus , according to the following experimental protocol , the relationship of the concentration of 2 - hydroxypropyl - β - cd ( hereinafter referred to as hp - β - cd ) with foam production was investigated using a fixed molar concentration of epc - k . experimental protocol : shaking test ( evaluation of foam production ) instrument : luchi shaker mw - 1 shaking conditions : 300 cycles / min .× 20 min . the time till disappearance of foam ( bubbles ) was measured . the results are presented in table 1 and diagrammatically in fig3 . the formulation amounts in table 1 are in m (= mol / l ). table 1______________________________________ compara - tive example 1 example 1 example 2 example 3______________________________________epc - k 0 . 0002 0 . 0002 0 . 0002 0 . 0002hp - β - cd 0 0 . 0001 0 . 01 0 . 02 ( 2 - hydroxypropyl - β - cd ) time till ≧ 3 days 72 hr . 2 hr . 8 min . disappearanceof foam______________________________________ example 4 example 5 example 6 example 7______________________________________epc - k 0 . 0002 0 . 0002 0 . 0002 0 . 0002hp - β - cd 0 . 03 0 . 05 0 . 07 0 . 1 ( 2 - hydroxypropyl - β - cd ) time till 3 min . 1 min . 30 sec . 30 sec . disappearanceof foam______________________________________ it will be apparent from table 1 and fig3 that whereas the time till disappearance of foam after shaking was more than 3 days in the case of hp - β - cd - free formulation ( comparative example 1 ), the time was curtailed as the concentration of hp - β - cd was increased and that , in examples 5 - 7 , the foam produced on shaking disappeared almost instantly . it is , thus , clear that hp - β - cd has the property to reduce the foam production associated with epc - k . then , using the following experimental protocol , the relationship of the concentration of epc - k with surface tension was investigated using a fixed molar concentration ( 3 . 6 mm ) of hp - β - cd or in the absence ( 0 . 0 mm ) of hp - β - cd . the results are presented diagrammatically in fig4 . it will be apparent from fig4 that hp - β - cd remarkably interferes with the surface activity of epc - k . this result indicates that inclusion of the alkyl side chain of tocopheryl ( vitamin e ) moiety of epc - k in the cyclodextrin molecule as illustrated in the model of fig1 reduces the surface activity of epc - k and thereby inhibits foam production . then , the state of clathration was examined by 1 h - nmr spectrometry . the nmr spectra are shown in fig5 . comparison of the spectrum of epc - k alone with the spectrum of epc - k / hp - β - cd = 1 : 1 shows changes in the peaks assignable to the alkyl side chain me protons of the tocopheryl moiety of epc - k at 0 . 6 - 0 . 7 ppm , the phe - me protons of the tocopheryl moiety at 1 . 7 - 2 . 1 ppm , and the -- ch -- protons of the ascorbyl moiety at 4 . 2 - 4 . 4 ppm . then , those nmr signals were scrutinized by varying the molar ratio . fig6 shows the spectra recorded with varying molar ratios and fig7 shows the peak of the alkyl side chain me protons of the tocopheryl moiety of epc - k at 0 . 6 - 0 . 7 ppm on exaggerated scale . fig8 shows the peaks assignable to the ph - m protons of the tocopheryl ( vitamin e ) moiety at 1 . 7 - 2 . 1 ppm and the -- ch -- protons of the ascorbyl ( vitamin c ) moiety at 4 . 2 - 4 . 4 ppm on exaggerated scale . it will be apparent from fig6 - 8 that as the proportion of hp - β - cd was increased , the peak of the alkyl side chain me protons of the tocopheryl moiety at 0 . 6 ppm was gradually eliminated , with appearance of a peak at 0 . 7 ppm and a broad signal at 0 . 63 - 0 . 7 ppm . moreover , the signal of the -- ch -- protons of the ascorbyl ( vitamin c ) moiety at 4 . 25 ppm was gradually shifted to 4 . 35 ppm . the relationship of the rates of shift of those signals with the hp - β - cd / epc - k molar ratio is shown in fig9 . it will be apparent from fig9 that the rate of disappearance of the peak assignable to the alkyl chain me protons of the tocopheryl ( vitamin e ) moiety at 0 . 6 ppm is different from the rate of disappearance of the peak assignable to the -- ch -- protons of the ascorbyl ( vitamin c ) moiety at 4 . 25 ppm . this discrepancy does not occur when the molar ratio of hp - β - cd to the guest molecule is 1 : 1 . it is , therefore , thought that a complex was formed in the molar ratio of not less than 2 : 1 . as will be understood from the cpk model presented in fig2 it appears structurally difficult to form a clathrate of a 3 : 1 or greater ratio . it is , therefore , considered that hp - β - cd and epc - k formed a complex with a molar ratio of 2 : 1 . the effect on foam production and light stability ( discoloration ) of hp - β - cd were investigated in a simple cosmetic formulation . the results are presented in table 2 . the formulation amounts are in weight %. test conditions : 300 cycles / min ., 20 min . the time till disappearance of foam after shaking was measured . light stability : xe irradiation ( accelerated test ); the color difference is measured . method : a sample exposed to xe light for 30 hours at 50 ° c . was compared with an unexposed control sample . xe irradiation : xenon long life fade meter ( 50 ° c ., 30 - hour exposure ), suga test instruments co . ltd . color difference : s & amp ; m color computer model sm - 4 , suga test instruments co . ltd . table 2______________________________________ comparative example example example example 2 8 9 10______________________________________epc - k 0 . 01 0 . 01 0 . 01 0 . 01hp - β - cd -- 2 5 -- β - cd -- -- -- 1 . 5denaturated syn - 5 5 5 5thetic alcoholdeionized water 94 . 84 92 . 84 89 . 84 93 . 34methyl p - hydroxy 0 . 15 0 . 15 0 . 15 0 . 15benzoatetime till ≧ 3 days 2 hr . 5 min . 3 hr . disappearance offoamxe irradiation - 7 . 28 3 . 81 0 . 82 4 . 32color difference ( δe ) ______________________________________ it will be apparent from table 2 that whereas the time till disappearance of foam after shaking was not less than 3 days in comparative example 2 corresponding to omission of hp - β - cd or β - cd , the time was considerably decreased in examples 8 - 10 in which hp - β - cd or β - cd was added . improvements were also obtained in light stability as tested by the xe irradiation method . more specific examples of the invention are shown below . all the formulation amounts are in weight %. incidentally , in each of the following examples , disappearance of foam after shaking was rapid and the light stability of each formulation was satisfactory . ______________________________________a . aqueous partbpc - k 0 . 01 % 2 - hydroxypropyl - β - cd 4 . 0glycerin ( dynamit ) 4 . 0propylene glycol 3 . 0citric acid 0 . 02sodium citrate 0 . 05sodium tetrametaphosphate 0 . 02purified water balanceb . alcoholic partdenatured synthetic alcohol 5 . 0methyl p - hydroxybenzoate 1 . 5perfume q . s . ______________________________________ epc - k , hp - β - cd , a humectant , etc . are added to purified water and the mixture is stirred with a propeller mixer for 10 minutes to dissolve thoroughly . this solution is used as the main part . on the other hand , a preservative and a perfume are added to denatured synthetic alcohol to prepare a homogeneous solution . this solution is added to the main part and the mixture is stirred with a propeller mixer for 10 minutes to provide a toilet water . ______________________________________a . aqueous partepc - k 0 . 01 % β - cd 1 . 5glycerin ( dynamit ) 7 . 01 , 3 - butylene glycol 4 . 0citric acid 0 . 02sodium citrate 0 . 05sodium hydroxymethoxybenzophenone - 0 . 05sulfonatepurified water balanceb . alcoholic partdenatured synthetic alcohol 7 . 0methyl p - hydroxybenzoate 1 . 5perfume q . s______________________________________ a toilet water is produced by the same procedure as example 11 . ______________________________________a . aqueous partepc - k 0 . 02 % hydroxyethyl - β - cd ) 4 . 0glycerin ( dynamit ) 5 . 01 , 3 - butylene glycol 5 . 0citric acid 0 . 02sodium citrate 0 . 05sodium hydroxymethoxybenzophenone - 0 . 05sulfonatesodium hexametaphosphate 0 . 02purified water balanceb . alcoholic partdenatured synthetic alcohol 7 . 0methyl p - hydroxybenzoate 1 . 5perfume q . s______________________________________ a toilet water is produced by the same procedure as example 11 . ______________________________________a . aqueous partepc - k 0 . 01 % 3 - hydroxypropyl - β - cd 3 . 0glycerin ( dynamit ) 6 . 0propylene glycol 5 . 0ethanol 3 . 0methyl p - hydroxybenzoate 0 . 2polyoxyethylene ( 60 )- hydrogenated 0 . 2castor oilcarboxyvinyl polymer 0 . 15purified water balanceb . oily partliquid paraffin 1 . 5squalene 2 . 0______________________________________ epc - k , hp - β - cd , and a humectant are added to purified water and the mixture is stirred with a propeller mixer to dissolve thoroughly . this solution is used as the main part . the oily part is added to the main part and the mixture is stirred with a homomixer for 10 minutes to provide a cosmetic lotion . as described in detail hereinbefore , the epc / cd clathrate of the invention is a complex compound in which the alkyl side chain of the oleophilic tocopheryl moiety of epc , which is mainly responsible for foam production in aqueous solution and poor light stability , has been included in a cyclodextrin or hydroxyalkylated cyclodextrin molecule to reduce foam production and improve light stability . furthermore , the topical dermal composition of the present invention makes it possible to use epc having humectant and antioxidant properties in stabilized form in an aqueous system such as a toilet water . in addition , epc , a vitamin e derivative , can now be safely formulated without the aid of a surfactant which has heretofore been indispensable and , moreover , there is no risk of skin irritation . | US-91713797-A |
there is disclosed a home care system in which a center terminal and a patient terminal are detachably connected to each other through communication lines , such as a public telephone line , an isdn , a catv , a radio and the like , and further to center terminals and patient terminals which constitute such a home care system . the patient terminal has an urgency transmitter device for transmitting a predetermined urgency code to the center terminal , and the center terminal comprises an urgency receiver device for receiving , while connected to a first patient terminal , the urgency code transmitted from a second patient terminal , and an urgency alarm device for informing of the fact that the urgency code has been received . | fig1 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a home care system according to the present invention . a home care center terminal is installed at a home care center such as a hospital , a door - to - door nurse station and the like . on the other hand , a patient terminal is installed at a patient &# 39 ; s home wherein a patient has , for example , a rehabilitation . it is acceptable that there are a plurality of home care centers , but not restricted to a single center . it is assumed that each of the home care centers ( two ) is provided with an associated home care center terminal ( a , b ). with respect to the patient terminals , usually , there are provided a lot of sets corresponding to a number of patients each for a patient &# 39 ; s home one by one . however , in the present embodiment , to simplify the explanation , it is assumed that there are set two patient terminals a and b to homes of two patients a and b , respectively . further , it is assumed that two patients a and b usually get guidance of the home care center at which the home care center terminal a is installed . two home care center terminals a and b and two patient terminals a and b are connected to each other through isdn lines 10 . two home care center terminals a and b have each the same structure . in fig1 there is shown details of the structure as to only the home care center terminal a . similarly , two patient terminals a and b have each the same structure , and thus in fig1 there is shown details of the structure as to only the patient terminal a . the home care center terminal a comprises an isdn board 11 for connection of an isdn line , an image / audio codec 12 for compressing image data and audio data to be transmitted into ones adapted for the isdn line and for expanding received image data and audio data , a television monitor 13 , a keyboard 14 , a microphone 15 for audio data input , a hard disk 16 for storing various kinds of programs and data , and a cpu 17 for executing a program and performing various kinds of controls . the patient terminal a comprises an isdn board 21 , an image / audio codec 22 , a television monitor 23 , a hard disk 26 and a cpu 27 , an operation pad 24 for operation by a patient , a light 25 for illumination of a patient &# 39 ; s living room at which the patient terminal a is installed , a sphygmomanometer 28 and an electrocardiograph 29 . communications through the isdn lines 10 are controlled by the cpus 17 and 27 through execution of communication programs stored in the hard disks 16 and 26 . since the isdn line and the usual communication itself using the isdn line are well known , there will be omitted explanations as to the isdn line 10 , the isdn boards 11 and 21 , the image / audio codecs 12 and 22 , the communication programs and the like . fig2 is an illustration of a key arrangement of an operation pad installed at a patient terminal . in fig2 an ellipse stands for a push button . the operation pad 24 is equipped with dial keys 241 to which numerals 0 - 9 , and marks * and # are appended , a center connecting push button 242 for connection to the home care center a , “ yes ” input push button 243 a and “ no ” input push button 243 b for inputting answers “ yes ” and “ no ” to the inquiry ( described later ), respectively , an urgency button 244 which is to be pushed when an emergency situation occurs , and a playback push button 245 which is to be pushed when it is desired to regenerate the communication image recorded at the patient terminal . when making a usual telephone call to one &# 39 ; s friends or the like , a person takes the telephone receiver ( not illustrated ) off the hook to push the telephone number of the destination through the dial keys 241 . this permits the person have a usual telephone conversation . a patient terminal a registers at least a telephone number of the home care center terminal a . of course , it is acceptable for the patient terminal a to register additionally telephone numbers and abbreviated dialing numbers of one &# 39 ; s friends , acquaintances and the like . here , there will be explained only the communication with the home care center . fig4 is a flowchart of an urgency code originating program to be executed by the cpu 27 of the patient terminal a when the center connecting push button 242 shown in fig2 is depressed . when the patient a wishes to communicate with the home care center a , usually , it is implemented through depression of the dial keys 241 . however , when the patient determines it is somewhat urgent , the center connecting push button 242 may be depressed so as to execute the program shown in fig4 . first , in step 4 _ 1 , the television monitor 23 displays an inquiry as to whether you get hurt . if so , the “ yes ” input push button 243 a on the operation pad 24 is depressed . thus , the process goes to step step 4 _ 2 in which the television monitor 23 displays an inquiry as to whether you get a bruise . if so , the “ yes ” input push button 243 a is again depressed . thus , the process goes to step 4 _ 3 in which the television monitor 23 displays a table providing a corresponding relation between numbers and sites of the human body . an operator depresses the associated number key of the dial keys 241 . the cpu 27 determines as to whether the operator gets hurt on the head ( step 4 _ 4 ). when it is determined that the operator gets hurt on the head , it is decided that the urgency code to be transmitted is sos 1 , and the transmitted data is generated ( step 4 _ 5 ). on the other hand , when it is determined that the operator gets hurt on the portions other than the head , it is decided that the urgency code to be transmitted is sos 2 , and the transmitted data is generated ( step 4 _ 6 ). the transmitted data including the urgency code is transmitted through a d - channel of the isdn line 10 ( step 4 _ 7 ) to the home care center terminal a . specifically , it is noted that higher priority of urgency is given for an urgency code provided with younger number subsequent to the symbol mark “ sos ”. hence , now to compare the urgency code sos 1 with the urgency code sos 2 , the the urgency code sos 1 is of higher priority of urgency . fig5 is an illustration of an example of transmitted data toward the home care center terminal a . this transmitted data include set up data setup to decide a transmitted protocol , a telephone number of a call originator ( patient terminal a ), an urgency code , and question data obtained by questions in the program shown in fig4 . in step 4 _ 2 , if the “ no ” input push button 243 b is depressed , the process goes to step 4 _ 9 in which the television monitor 23 displays an inquiry as to whether it is a cut . if so , the “ yes ” input push button 243 a is depressed . then the process goes to step step 4 _ 10 in which the television monitor 23 displays the table providing a corresponding relation between numbers and sites of the human body , in a similar fashion to that of step 4 _ 3 . thus , the operator depresses the associated number key of the dial keys 241 of the operation pad 24 . thereafter , the process goes to step 4 _ 4 . in step 4 _ 9 , if the “ no ” input push button 243 b is depressed , the process goes to step 4 _ 6 in which the urgency code sos 2 is determined and the transmitted data is generated . in step 4 _ 1 , if the “ no ” input push button 243 b is depressed , the process goes to step 4 _ 11 in which the television monitor 23 displays an inquiry as to whether you have a pain in your body . if so , the “ yes ” input push button 243 a is depressed . then the process goes to step 4 _ 12 in which the television monitor 23 displays as to where you have a pain in your body . thus , the operator depresses the associated number key of the dial keys 241 of the operation pad 24 . in this case , anyhow , the process goes to step 4 _ 5 in which the urgency code sos 1 is determined . on the other hand , as will be described later in conjunction with fig5 information involved in step 4 _ 11 is used as question data which are transmitted together with the urgency code . in step 4 _ 11 , if the “ no ” input push button 243 b is depressed , the process goes to step 4 _ 13 in which the urgency code sos 3 is determined , and then the process goes to step 4 _ 7 . incidentally , when the urgency button 244 of the operation pad 24 shown in fig2 is depressed , the highest priority of urgency code sos 0 is determined and immediately transmitted to the home care center terminal a . fig6 is a flowchart of an interrupting and connecting program to be executed in the cpu 17 of the home care center terminal a . in step 6 _ 1 , it is monitored as to whether call incoming is present . in case of the absence of call incoming , waiting until call incoming occurs . when call incoming occurs , the content of the d - channel of the isdn line 10 is examined ( step 6 _ 2 ) to check as to whether the urgency code exists in the transmitted data ( step 6 _ 3 ). if no urgency code exists , the process goes to step 6 _ 4 in which it is examined as to whether the b - channel is now occupied . if the b - channel is not occupied , the b - channel is connected thereto ( step 6 _ 5 ). on the other hand , if the b - channel is occupied , a message indicating “ busy ” is transmitted to the patient terminal of concern ( step 6 _ 6 ). in step 6 _ 3 , when it is recognized that an urgency code is present in the transmitted data through the d - channel , the process goes to step 6 _ 7 in which it is examined as to whether the b - channel is now occupied . if the b - channel is not occupied , the b - channel is connected thereto ( step 6 _ 8 ). on the other hand , if the b - channel is occupied or “ busy ”, the process goes to step 6 _ 9 in which a patient &# 39 ; s telephone number , a urgency priority and question data , which are transmitted via the d - channel , are received ( refer to fig5 ). in step 6 _ 10 , a patient name registration table is referred to for the patient &# 39 ; s telephone number to identify the patient &# 39 ; s name of concern . fig7 is an illustration of a telephone number and patient name registration table at the home care center terminal a . in this table , there are registered a patient name and a telephone number of the patient terminal set to the patient &# 39 ; s home in their corresponding relation . in step 6 _ 10 of the program shown in fig6 this registration table is referred to so as to identify the patient who transmitted the urgency code . in step 6 _ 11 , a screen now on “ busy ” is interrupted to be changed over to a display screen for data sent out from the patient terminal transmitted the urgency code . in step 6 _ 12 , there is added on the display screen a question as to whether the interruption of this patient is allowed . in step 6 _ 13 , there is added on the display screen a question as to whether this patient terminal is connected to another home care center terminal . fig8 ( a ) and 8 ( b ) are illustrations of screens before and after the change over , respectively ; it is assumed that a patient a transmits the urgency code in the middle of the guidance on the home care of the patient b through a conversation with a patient b ( fig8 ( a )). in this case , the display screen shown in fig8 ( a ) is changed over to the display screen shown in fig8 ( b ) on which displayed are a massage ( fig5 ) from the patient a received through the d - channel , a question as to whether an interruption of the patient a is allowed , and a question as to whether the patient terminal a is connected to another home care center terminal b . the person in charge of the care center confirms this display into comparison with the urgency priority of the patient b now on talking to give an instruction through the keyboard 14 ( fig1 ) as to whether an interruption of the patient a is allowed ( step 6 _ 17 ). in a case where an interruption of the patient a is allowed , an interruption instruction is issued to a switching system ( step 6 _ 18 ) so that the person in charge of the care center starts the conversation with the patient a . on the other hand , when it is instructed that an interruption of the patient a is allowed and the patient terminal a is to be connected to another home care center terminal b ( step 6 _ 19 ), there will be issued to the switching system such an instruction that the patient terminal a is connected to another home care center terminal b ( step 6 _ 20 ). thus , the display screen returns to the screen ( fig8 ( a )) for a conversation with the patient b . when such an instruction that there is no need to connect the patient terminal a to even another home care center terminal b is issued , a message such that “ please call again later ” is transmitted to the patient terminal a , and then the conversation with the patient b may be resumed . fig9 is an illustration of an example of a scheduler registration table at the home care center terminal a . in the hard disk 16 of the home care center terminal a , there is prepared a scheduler registration table as shown in fig9 . a person in charge in the center writes necessary matters into the table through an operation of the keyboard 14 . according to the example shown in fig9 the following matters are written into the table : ( 1 ) to automatically call mr . taro fujitsu , telephone : 078 - 936 - 1221 , at 13 : 00 , the first of august , 1994 , to speak fifty minutes up to 13 : 50 to give guidance in the home care and the like ; and ( 2 ) to automatically call mrs . hanako fujitsu , telephone : 044 - 777 - 1111 , at 14 : 00 , the first of august , 1994 , to load data as to blood pressure and electrocardiogram on the home care center terminal side . fig1 is a flowchart of a scheduler program to perform a scheduling of communications with patients , which program is stored in the hard disk of the home care center terminal . this program starts in accordance with an instruction through the keyboard 14 by an person in charge in the care center . incidentally , it is assumed that the patient terminals a and b are each in a state that the power is always kept on turn - on . in step 10 _ 1 , know the present time and date referring to a timer ( not illustrated ) which is incorporated into the home care center terminal a . in step 10 _ 2 , the reservation date and the starting time on the scheduler registration table as shown in fig9 are referred to . in step 10 _ 3 , it is judged as to whether the present time and date coincides with the reservation date and the starting time on the scheduler registration table . if the reservation date and the starting time appearing at any column on the scheduler registration table does not coincide with the present time and date , the process goes to step 10 _ 4 in which when termination instruction is issued from the center , the routine is terminated . on the other hand , if no termination instruction is issued from the center , the program returns to step 10 _ 1 in which the present time and date are again referred to . in step 10 _ 3 , when the reservation date and the starting time appearing at any column in the scheduler registration table coincides with the present time and date , the process goes to step 10 _ 5 in which an item of a communication mode of the associated patient terminal is referred to . in step 10 _ 6 , it is judged as to whether the communication mode is concerned with an automatic communication or an automatic download . if it is not concerned with the automatic communication , in other words , it is concerned with the automatic download , the process goes to step 10 _ 7 in which the associated patient terminal is accessed to download the vital signs , that is , in this case , blood pressure and electrocardiogram , on the home care center terminal a ( step 10 _ 8 ). the vital signs thus downloaded are filed on the patient data in the hard disk 16 of the home care center terminal a . incidentally , it is assumed that in the patient terminal side , prior to the time of such download , the patient &# 39 ; s blood pressure and electrocardiogram are measured using a tonometer 28 and an electrocardiograph 29 ( fig1 ) and those data are stored in the patient terminal . after the download of the vital signs is executed in step 10 _ 8 , the process returns to step 10 _ 1 in which the present time and date are referred to . in step 10 _ 6 , when it is decided that the communication mode is concerned with the automatic communication , the process goes to step 10 _ 9 in which the associated patient terminal is accessed . in step 10 _ 10 , the present time and date are again referred to , and the remaining time , which is generated through the subtraction of the current time from the termination time on the associated column in the scheduler registration table , is displayed on the screen . further , the patient &# 39 ; s image now on conversation is also simultaneously displayed on the screen . it is possible for the person in charge of the center to additionally write the condition of the patient and the like into the patient data file through an operation of the keyboard 14 while having the conversation with the patient . the patient data file may store also audio data . thus , it is possible to store in the patient data file the voice of the person in charge as it is using the microphone 15 . in this manner , since the patient data file may store audio data , it is possible to record as the patient data also the fine nuances of care such that it would be difficult to express meaning in writing . in step 10 _ 12 , it is judged as to whether the present time and date coincides with the reservation date and the termination time . up to the coincidence the present time and date is referred to ( step 10 _ 10 ), and the remaining time is displayed ( step 10 _ 11 ). when the coincidence occurs , the process goes to step 10 _ 13 in which access to the patient is released . in this manner , a systematic access to the patient is carried out . fig1 is a flowchart of a care procedure program to be executed at a home care center terminal . this program starts through an operation of the keyboard 14 by an operator in charge of the center . when the program starts through an operation of the keyboard 14 by the operator in charge and the patient is specified , first , in step 11 _ 1 , the television monitor 13 displays a question as to which one is performed between “ a care procedure check ” and “ a care procedure customizing ”. when the operator in charge answers to the question through an operation of the keyboard , in step 11 _ 2 , it is judged as to which one is to be performed between “ a care procedure check ” and “ a care procedure customizing ”. in case of not “ a care procedure check ”, in other words , in a case where “ a care procedure customizing ” is to be carried out , the process goes to in step 11 _ 3 in which the television monitor 13 displays items of the present check list of the associated patient . fig1 is an illustration of an example of a care procedure check list . in the care procedure check list , there are recorded items “ question ”, “ rehabilitation ”, and “ advice ”, which have been created to meet the care of the associated patient , and their contents . in step 11 _ 3 , the television monitor 13 displays the above - mentioned items of the care procedure check list . in step 11 _ 4 , the item which is intended to be altered is selected through an operation of the keyboard . in step 11 _ 5 , the content of the item thus selected is displayed on the television monitor 13 . through the keyboard 14 , there is issued an instruction as to the selection among an addition of the listed content , a change of the listed content and an alteration of the order of the list involved in the content , and in addition through an operation of the keyboard , there is inputted an added content or a changed content , otherwise , there is issued an instruction as to the alteration of the order of the list ( step 11 _ 6 to step 11 _ 11 ). the routine is terminated when an instruction of the alteration termination of the check list is made through the keyboard ( step 11 _ 12 ), otherwise a selection of an altered item is again carried out . in step 11 _ 2 , when it is decided that the instruction issued from the person in charge is involved in the care procedure check , the television monitor 13 displays the respective items in the care procedure check list as shown in fig1 and the associated contents , so that the operator in charge checks the contents of the items one by one for each item ( step 11 _ 13 , 11 _ 14 ). when the check on a certain item is terminated ( it is inputted through an operation of the keyboard ), the subsequent item is displayed . when the check on the whole items is terminated , running of this care procedure check program is terminated . the care procedure check program thus created and / or altered is referred to during giving guidance in the care of the associated patient through the conversation with the patient . consequently , it is possible even for a newcomer of person in charge to give a sufficient guidance in the care . fig1 is a flowchart of a patient terminal light operating program to be executed at the home care center terminal . this program starts through an operation of the keyboard 14 by the person in charge of the center in such a situation that for example , even if the person in charge of the center calls the patient of concern over and over , the patient of concern does not come on the phone , and also even if the person in charge of the center wishes to know through the television monitor 13 how things stand in his room , it is too dark to know how things stand in his room . in step 13 _ 1 , the television monitor 13 displays a list of operational contents , for example , the operational contents of the light 25 ( fig1 ) of the patient terminal , such as a turn - on , a turn - off , a right rotation ( turning the light to the right ), a left rotation ( turning the light to the left ), a light quantity increment and a light quantity decrement . a desired one is optionally selected among those operational contents through an operation of the keyboard . when the desired one is selected , the d - channel of the isdn line 10 is connected to transmit a light operation command according to the selected operational content . the associated patient terminal receives the light operation command , so that the light 25 is controlled in accordance with the received command . when the light operation is terminated , the line of the d - channel is released to terminate this routine ( step 13 _ 4 , 13 _ 5 ). in a case where a further operation is desired , the process returns to step 13 _ 1 . in this manner , the television monitor 13 in the care center side displays as to how things stand in the room of patient of concern . thus , it is possible to know how things stand in his room , thereby confirming the presence or absence of occurrence of an unusual situation . fig1 is a flowchart of a visual automatic recording program to be executed at a patient terminal . in step 14 _ 1 , it is decided as to whether call incoming occurs . if no call incoming occurs , a standby is held until call incoming occurs . when call incoming occurs , the process goes to step 14 _ 2 in which a telephone number of a party in call originating is investigated from data transmitted through the d - channel to refer to a telephone number registration table ( fig3 ) ( step 14 _ 3 ). in step 14 _ 4 , it is checked as to whether the party in call originating is a home care center a in charge of the associated patient . when it is not the home care center a in charge , a standby is held until the next call incoming occurs . when it is the home care center a in charge , a recording of images and speeches transmitted from the home care center a in charge is initiated ( step 14 _ 5 ). the images and speeches are recorded on the hard disk until the communication with the home care center a in charge is terminated ( step 14 _ 6 to 14 _ 8 ). in this manner , when called up from the home care center a in charge , the contents of the communication are automatically recorded . thus , it is possible for the patient to review the instruction from the care center . fig1 is a video playback program to be executed at a patient terminal . when the playback push button 245 on the operation pad 24 ( fig2 ) is depressed , this program starts . in step 15 _ 1 , it is determined as to whether a recorded image is present . when a recorded image is absent , the routine is terminated . when a recorded image is present , a regeneration of the image is initiated ( step 15 _ 2 ) so that the visual file is sequentially read to display the images on the television monitor 23 ( step 15 _ 3 , 15 _ 4 ). incidentally , the above - mentioned embodiment is involved in the use of the isdn line . however , the home care system of the present invention is not restricted to one involved in the use of the isdn line . it is acceptable , of course , to use a catv , radio and the like . further , as will be described hereinafter , it is also acceptable to optionally select anyone of a plurality of communication lines in accordance with a patient terminal into the use . fig1 is a block diagram of part of a care center terminal according to another embodiment different from the embodiment shown in fig1 in the home care system according to the present invention . in fig1 , there is shown a data input and output unit 100 corresponding to the isdn board 11 and the image / audio codec 12 in the embodiment shown in fig1 . the data input and output unit 100 constituting a center terminal is connected to a plurality of kinds of communication networks , that is , an isdn , a public communication network ( analog telephone line network ), a catv network , and a b - isdn . in this system , connected to the isdn is two patient terminals a 1 and a 2 ; to the public communication network is two patient terminals b 1 and b 2 ; to the catv network is a patient terminal c ; and to the b - isdn is a patient terminal d , respectively . the data input and output unit 100 is provided with communication ports 110 , 120 , 130 and 140 which are connected to the isdn , the public communication network , the catv network and the b - isdn , respectively . communication unit 111 , 121 , 131 and 141 , which constitute parts of the communication ports 110 , 120 , 130 and 140 , respectively , carry each a communication through the associated communication network . the communication port 110 is provided with an isdn line - use - mpeg codec 112 which serves to perform coding ( including decoding ) on the basis of the mpeg standard , and an isdn line - use - h261 codec 113 which serves to perform encoding and decoding on the basis of the h261 standard . the communication port 120 is provided with a public communication line - use - apex codec 122 which serves to perform encoding and decoding on the basis of the apex standard ( not international standard , but a private standard : e . g . mcmjapan company standard ) and a public communication line - use - h261 codec 123 which serves to perform encoding and decoding on the basis of the h261 standard . the communication ports 130 and 140 are provided with a catv line - use - mpeg codec 132 which serves to perform encoding and decoding on the basis of the mpeg standard and a b - isdn line - use - mpeg codec 142 which serves to perform encoding and decoding on the basis of the mpeg standard , respectively . the communication port 110 is provided with a switch circuit 114 for selectively switchingly connecting the mpeg codec 112 and the h261 codec 113 to the the communication means 111 . the communication port 120 is provided with a switch circuit 124 for selectively switchingly connecting the apex codec 122 and the h261 codec 123 to the the communication unit 121 . there is provided a switch circuit 150 between each of the communication ports 110 , 120 , 130 and 140 and each of the cpu 17 and the television monitor 13 ( fig1 ). data communication is performed through the switch circuit 150 between each of the ports 110 , 120 , 130 and 140 and the cpu 17 . the respective ports 110 , 120 , 130 and 140 may transmit data through the switch circuit 150 to the television monitor 13 . the data input and output unit 100 further comprises a port switching circuit 160 having a port switching table . fig1 is an illustration of a port switching table provided within the port switching circuit 160 . the port switching table shows telephone numbers of patient terminals a 1 , a 2 , b 1 , b 2 , c and d , codec schemes for the patient terminals a 1 , a 2 , b 1 , b 2 , c and d , and sort of communication lines to which the patient terminals a 1 , a 2 , b 1 , b 2 , c and d are connected , respectively , in their corresponding relation . in the table , for the purpose of simplification , the telephone numbers of patient terminals a 1 , a 2 , b 1 , b 2 , c and d are denoted by the same reference marks as those of the patient terminals . when the center terminal side calls the patient terminal , the telephone number of the patient terminal is inputted from cpu 17 of the center terminal to the port switching circuit 160 . thus the port switching circuit 160 refers to the port switching table shown in fig1 to control the switch circuit 150 in such a manner that the communication port ( communication means ) suitable for the patient terminal to be called is selected . when the communication ports 110 or 120 is selected , the port switching circuit 160 also refers to the port switching table shown in fig1 to control the switch circuits 114 or 124 in such a manner that the codec suitable for the patient terminal to be called is selected . in this manner , data communication is performed between the center terminal and the patient terminal through the communication means and the codec which are suitable for the patient terminal as the destination . on the other hand , when the patient terminal side is on the phone , as seen from fig5 the telephone number of the call originator ( patient terminal ) is first transmitted . therefore , upon receipt of the telephone number , the communication means passes the received telephone number to the port switching circuit 160 . thus , the port switching circuit 160 controls necessary ones among the switch circuits 150 , 114 and 124 in a similar fashion to that of a case where the center terminal makes a telephone for the patient terminal . incidentally , according to the embodiment , the communication port 130 has the mpeg codec 132 . however , in a case where the communication is performed with analog ntsc signals which are not encoded , the mpeg codec 132 can be omitted . further , when the signals encoded according to the mpeg codec scheme and the ntsc signals not encoded are received and transmitted , it may be so arranged that the mpeg codec 132 is provided and when the communication by the ntsc signals is performed , the mpeg codec 132 is bypassed . further , according to the explanation as to fig1 and 17 , the data input and output unit 100 of the center terminal is provided with the port switching circuit 160 . however , it is noted that the port switching circuit 160 may be substituted by a program executed by the cpu 17 ( fig1 ) and the switching control signals for the switch circuits 150 , 114 and 124 are supplied to the data input and output unit 100 . as described above , the home care system according to the present invention and further center terminals and patient terminals , which constitute such a home care system , takes into consideration the application of the system and a facility of the use of the terminals . thus , according to the present invention , it is possible to provide a system which is excellent in operational efficiency and is effective for a home care . the present invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described above . various changes and modifications may be made within the spirit and scope of the invention . | US-23549599-A |
an implantable medical lead including an angled collar located adjacent to or integral with the proximal connector assembly is provided . the angled collar provides a area having enhance rigidity to allow insertion of the connector assembly without kinking or otherwise bending the conductors within the lead body . the angled collar comprises a bend adjacent the proximal end of the lead having a reinforcing layer disposed about the lead body . the angled collar may include a textured surface to reduce the likelihood of the users finger or fingers sliding off of the angled collar during insertion . | the present invention is applicable to a variety of medical devices utilizing implantable leads . the invention is described generally in the context of a cardiac pacing lead used with implantable cardiac rhythm management devices for illustrative purposes only . the appended claims are not intended to be limited to any specific end use , example or embodiment described in this specification . those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be used in a wide variety of medical applications including , but not limited to , neurostimulation , pacing and defibrillation . further , the numbers are repeated throughout the figures where the individual elements are substantially identical to one another . referring first to fig1 it illustrates a perspective view of a medical lead 10 in accordance with the present invention . lead 10 includes an elongated , flexible lead body 12 having a connector assembly 14 attached at its proximal end . an angled collar 16 surrounds and is attached to the proximal end of lead body 12 immediately distal of connector assembly 14 , and one or more stimulating / sensing electrodes are attached near or at the distal end of lead body 12 . further , lead body 12 may be provided with a lumen 20 , shown in fig2 and 3 , to permit insertion of a stylet during implantation or to permit drug delivery . lead body 12 further includes one or more insulated conductors 22 extending between the electrodes 18 - 18 ′ and the connector 14 the insulator is typically flexible to permit lead 12 to be inserted intravenously to a target location within the patient . connector assembly 14 includes one or more contacts depending on whether it is a monopolar or a bipolar lead , and a connector body having sufficient rigidity to permit insertion of the connector assembly into the conventional header port 23 on the can or housing of the pulse generator . the conductors 22 electrically connect the electrical contacts disposed longitudinally on connector assembly 14 with the electrodes and / or sensors at the distal end of lead body 12 . angled collar 16 forms an angle in lead body 12 or on connector assembly 14 to allow the user to apply a force along the longitudinal axis of the connector pin during insertion of connector assembly 14 into the header port 23 . typically , angled collar 16 is configured to enable a user to apply the necessary force with the user &# 39 ; s thumb or other finger pushing on the surface 25 . surface 25 may be textured to provide increased friction between the user &# 39 ; s thumb or finger . angled collar 16 may be formed from a biocompatible polymer or other biocompatible material . the material used is selected to have sufficient rigidity to withstand the force of insertion without buckling or bending . polyetheretherkeyton ( peek ), polyurethane and tecothane have been found to be suitable plastics for the collar 16 . angled collar 16 preferably comprises a rigid angled band placed about lead body 12 adjacent to connector assembly 14 . alternatively , angled collar 16 may be attached to the proximal end of lead body 12 and to the distal end of connector assembly 14 . while the drawings illustrate angled collars having 90 ° bends , other angles , preferably in a range from about 60 ° to 150 ° can be used . in the preferred embodiment , angled collar 16 includes one or more conductors molded into the collar or passing through the lumen formed in the collar to electrically connect the conductors 22 of lead body 12 with the electrical contacts of connector assembly 14 . in yet another embodiment , angled collar 16 is integral with the distal end of connector assembly 14 . fig2 illustrates a partial sectional view of the proximal end portion of and incorporating the present invention . lead 10 includes a stylet receiving lumen 20 extending from the proximal end of connector assembly 14 through the bend in lead body 12 at angled collar 16 and down to the distal end of the lead . angled collar 16 , as shown in fig2 is secured around the proximal end of lead body 12 . conductors 22 are spirally wound within lead body 12 around lumen 20 . conductors 22 electrically connected to first contact 24 and second contact 26 of connector assembly 14 . to prevent penetration of a stiffening stylet through the plastic at the point of the angled bend , a reinforcing tube 27 can be employed within the lumen 20 . angled collar 16 is secured about lead body 12 to prevent the buckling or kinking of conductors 22 during insertion of connector assembly 14 into the header of a medical device as the medical professional applies thumb pressure to the surface 25 of the angled collar . as shown in fig2 the proximal end of the angled collar 16 abuts the distal end of connector assembly 14 . angled collar 16 may be positioned more distal along lead 16 to permit some flexibility between the angled collar and the connector assembly while still preventing buckling or kinking . fig3 illustrates a partial sectional view of the proximal end of another embodiment of lead 10 . angled collar 16 , as shown in fig3 is integral with connector assembly 14 . stylet receiving lumen 20 is continuous and collinear with a passage 32 at the distal end of connector assembly 14 adjacent the angled collar 16 so as not to require a stylet to bend as in the embodiment of fig2 . a self - sealing plug 33 allows penetration of the stylet but prevents ingress of the body fluids when the stylet is withdrawn following implant . at least one wound conductor 22 from lead body 12 is electrically connected to first contact 24 and / or second contact 26 of connector assembly 14 . as shown in fig3 a first connecting wire 34 electrically connects first contact 24 to a spiral wound conductor 22 in the lead body and a second connecting wire 36 electrically connects second contact 26 to another spiral wound conductor 22 . alternatively , conductors 22 may be drawn from lead body 12 during manufacture and extended through angled collar 16 and connector assembly 14 to electrically contact first contact 24 and / or second contact 26 . fig4 illustrates a partial sectional view of the proximal end of yet another embodiment of a cardiac stimulating lead 10 . angled collar 16 , as shown in fig4 is an independent element secured between the proximal end of lead body 12 and the distal end of connector assembly 14 . electrical contact 24 of connector assembly 14 is electrically connected to at least one conductor 22 , shown as a cable conductor of the type used in the fabrication of defibrillating leads . fig4 illustrates the connection of cable conductor 22 to electrical contact 24 by extending conductor 22 through angled collar 16 and connector assembly 14 to form the electrical contact with electrical contact 24 . alternatively , a connecting wire or wires could be molded in or inserted through a lumen into connector assembly 14 and angled collar 16 to electrically connect electrical contact 14 with conductor 22 . the embodiments of the angled collar shown in fig2 and 3 are compatible with lead connectors meeting international standards is - 1 and is - 2 while the embodiment of fig4 is applicable to the df - 1 standard . it is to be understood , however , that the present invention is applicable to almost any terminal connector design . this invention has been described herein in considerable detail in order to comply with the patent statutes and to provide those skilled in the art with the information needed to apply the novel principles and to construct and use such specialized components as are required . however , it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out by specifically different equipment and devices , and that various modifications , both as to the equipment and operating procedures , can be accomplished without departing from the scope of the invention itself . | US-84344101-A |
a method and apparatus for cooking includes an apparatus convertible from a grill to a bake oven . the apparatus has a fire box positioned below a grill and incorporates a closed chamber supported on the fire box and enclosing the grill . a pivotable plate is mounted immediately below the grill and is pivotable between a vertical position and a horizontal position . in the horizontal position , the plate is latchable below the grill so as to separate the grill from the fire box . in this horizontal position , the closed grill chamber functions as an oven . when the pivotable plate is dropped into the vertical position , the grill is in direct communication with the fire box and can be used in a normal grill fashion . | fig1 is a perspective view of one form of cooking apparatus 10 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention . the apparatus 10 comprises an essentially octagon shaped housing 12 defining a fire box 14 and a cooking chamber 16 . the housing 12 may be mounted on a trailer frame 18 with wheels 20 to allow transport of the apparatus . the fire box 14 is defined as that portion of the apparatus below the line 22 while the cooking chamber 16 is defined above the line 22 . access to the fire box 14 is provided by a door 24 in an end wall 26 and by doors 28 in a front wall 30 . the door 24 is preferably hinged at 32 and opens by pivoting outwardly and upwardly about hinge 32 . such arrangement of door 24 is desirable to allow a charcoal tray to be slid into the fire box 14 . the doors 28 are hinged at 34 along their lower edges and swing outwardly and downwardly . such arrangement of doors 28 allows additional combustible material , such as hickory chips or nuts , to be added to the fire . it will be apparent from the above description that the cooking apparatus 10 is preferably designed for charcoal cooking and will be described with that embodiment . however , it will be apparent that the apparatus can be converted to a gas cooker by simple installation of a gas burner in the bottom of the fire box 14 . furthermore , a grid could be installed above such a gas burner for supporting briquettes of ceramic or lava as is used in conventional gas grills . additionally , reference to charcoal will be understood to include other combustible wood products . the fire box 14 also includes a flue 36 having a damper control indicated at 38 . the cooking chamber 16 is also provided with a flue 40 . access to the cooking chamber 16 is provided by an opposing pair of piano type doors 42 . each of the doors 42 have a lower section 44 and an upper section 46 joined by a piano hinge 48 . the upper section 46 is joined to a top 50 of the chamber 16 by a piano hinge 52 . each door 42 is constructed to seat securely against opposite end walls 54 of the cooking chamber and against an upper edge of fire box 14 so as to provide a substantially closed cooking chamber 16 . each door 42 includes a handle 56 , preferably having a low thermal conductivity cover such as wood , over a metal member fixedly attached to the door 42 near a lower edge of section 44 . each of the doors 42 is opened by lifting vertically with the handle 56 and pushing the lower section 44 towards the apparatus 10 so that folding of the sections 44 , 46 occurs along the hinge 48 . the folded pair of sections 44 , 46 also pivot upward about hinge 52 and can be laid back against the flue 40 and will remain in that position while a user is accessing the cooking chamber 16 . turning now to fig2 there is shown an elevation view of the cooking apparatus 10 of fig1 with the doors 42 in their open position as described above . positioned on top of the fire box 14 and preferably suspended from front and rear sides of the fire box is a plurality of grills 60a , 60b , and 60c . while the apparatus is illustrated in a form having a relatively large cooking surface divided into three sections as indicated by grills 60a , 60b , and 60c , it will be appreciated that more or fewer sections could be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention . since the cooking chamber 16 is generally arranged for cooking as a closed chamber , additional grills 62a , 62b supported above the grills 60 may also be used in the apparatus . in the illustration , the grills 62a , 62b are each supported on legs 64 seated on corners of the grills 60 . because of the relatively large size of the exemplary apparatus ( each grill 60 is sixteen inches wide and thirty - six inches long ), the grill 60 is preferably formed with angle iron side edges 66 to inhibit deformation . each of the access doors 28 is fitted with a latch 68 to maintain them in their closed position . air for the fire box 14 is admitted through a plurality of dampers 70 , at least one located in the fire box panel below each respective one of the doors 28 . the damper 70 is a common damper of a type well known in the art which can be selectively positioned to regulate air flow and thereby control the heat output from the fire box 14 . plural dampers are desirable to facilitate use of one or two sections of the grill as will be discussed hereinafter . the apparatus 10 may also include an lp gas tank 72 supported on frame 18 at one end of the apparatus . an enclosure 74 adjacent tank 72 supports a gas burner 76 which provides additional cooking capability separate from the housing 12 . one or more burners may be constructed in enclosure 74 . one of the features of the present invention is the ability to effectively isolate the fire box 14 from the cooking chamber 16 . such a feature is desirable when cooking to allow inspection or turning of food on grills 60 without being overcome by heat and smoke from the fire box 14 . in the illustrative embodiment , this feature is implemented by metal plates 78 ( shown in fig3 ) which can be positioned beneath and substantially parallel to respective ones of the grills 60 . the handles 80 are each connected to a corresponding one of the plates 78a , 78b , 78c and enable the plates to be rotated into their closed position from the outside front of the fire box 14 . when in the closed position , a respective handle 82 operates a spring loaded latch 84 ( see fig3 ) to hold the plates 78 in the closed position . fig3 is a cross - sectional view taken along the lines 3 -- 3 in fig2 but with one section of the fire box 14 modified to illustrate another feature of the invention . this view shows a plate 78a in a closed position and a plate 78b in an open position . it can also be seen that a tray 86 rests on the bottom 88 of the fire box 14 . tray 86 is provided to contain charcoal or other combustible material and provides both a efficient method of loading charcoal into the fire box 14 and cleaning ashes and other residue from the fire box simply by sliding the tray 86 out of the fire box through access door 24 . another feature in fig3 is the use of a divider 89 for separating the apparatus 10 into isolated sections . such separation is useful in the event that a reduced amount of grill surface is required for cooking and it is desired to conserve combustibles , such as charcoal . in fig3 however , the divider 89 is used to separate one section of the apparatus such that a secondary charcoal tray 90 can be positioned near the top of the fire box 14 . the tray 90 is used in conjunction with an additional grill 92 mounted in a swing - out arm 94 . the arm 94 is supported by a bracket 96 attached to an end 98 of the apparatus 10 . the tray 90 positions a heat source close to the grill 92 and is desirable for searing steaks and other selected cuts of meat . the grill 92 can be swung out of the cooking chamber 16 when an appropriate one of the doors 42 is open . this swing - out ability facilitates placing and lighting of charcoal in tray 90 and also allows adding , removing , and checking of meat on grill 92 without danger of injury from fire . as is shown , the grills 60 are supported within fire box 14 by angle iron strips 100 attached to walls of the fire box . at the intermediate locations 102 and 104 , the strips 100 are spaced slightly apart to allow insertion of the divider 89 . one of the significant features of the apparatus 10 is the spacing between the grills 60 and the tray 86 . various studies have shown that a spacing of about seventeen inches between a heat source and food being cooked is desirable in order to minimize the introduction of carcinogens into food being cooked over an open fire . it is believed that such a distance allows carcinogens to be incinerated , in the event of flare - ups caused by grease drippings , before such carcinogens can be introduced into meat being cooked . in this respect , the grills 60 are each about sixteen inches in width and the plates 78 are approximately sixteen inches . as can be seen , the plates 78 when in the open or vertically oriented position do not completely reach the upper edge of the charcoal tray 86 . thus , at least seventeen inches is provided between grills 60 and the heat source . while this distance is desirable for grilling , in a preferred embodiment , the grills 60 are positioned about twenty - four inches above the tray 86 thus providing additional spacing between the cooking surface on the grills 60 and the heat source in tray 86 for smoking at lower heat concentration . the tray 86 may be supported on racks ( not shown ) attached to the sides of the grill in order to allow positioning at alternative spacing from the cooking surface . fig4 is a partial perspective view of the apparatus 10 better illustrating the grill 92 and raised tray 90 as viewed from the rear side of the fire box 14 . this view also shows an adjacent section with a plate 78b in a closed position . a pair of the angle iron strips 100 for supporting the grills 60 also appear in this view . in using the present invention , the tray 86 is slid at least partially out the end access door 24 to allow a selected amount of charcoal or other combustible material to be loaded onto the tray 86 . if charcoal is used and all sections of the exemplary three - section grill are to be utilized , about twenty pounds of charcoal has been found sufficient to maintain the cooking chamber 16 at a reasonable cooking temperature , e . g ., about 230 ° f ., for at least two hours . the charcoal is lighted in a conventional manner and allowed to burn until a satisfactory bed of coals is established , generally indicated by substantially white coloration of the charcoal . the coals may be spread relatively uniformly over the tray 86 using a garden tool such as a hoe or rake . in order to place meat or other food on the grills 60 once the charcoal has reached the above mentioned condition , the damper control 38 is moved to an open position so that an air flow path is established from damper 70 over the coals in tray 86 and out through flue 36 . this air flow path maintains combustion of the coals and diverts smoke and heat from the grills 60 . the plates 78 are then raised into their closed position underneath and substantially parallel to the grills 60 thus isolating the cooking chamber 16 from the heat in fire box 14 . each of the doors 42 is then raised in sequence to allow accumulated heat and smoke in the cooking chamber 16 to dissipate . thereafter , food may be placed on the grills 60 in relative comfort or , if food is already on the grills 60 , may be tended without the user being subjected to heat and smoke from the fire . reverting to the cooking status is essentially a reverse process from that of opening the cooking chamber . the doors 42 are first closed and then the plates 78 are dropped to expose the grills 60 to the fire box 14 . the damper control 38 is moved to a closed position to force heat and smoke into the cooking chamber 16 . note that the flue 40 remains open at all times even though it is not needed when the doors 42 are open . it is believed that the octagon configuration of the housing 12 contributes significantly to the heat distribution within the cooking chamber . in particular , it is believed that the repeated angularly oriented surfaces reflect heat toward the cooking surfaces , i . e ., on the grills 60 and 62 . it has been found that meat placed on grills 60 and 62 can be browned without turning , i . e ., when only one side is directly facing the fire , using the apparatus , although one side may be somewhat more brown than the other . for this embodiment , the housing was also constructed such that the distance from the grill surface 60 to the top of the cooking chamber 16 is the same as the distance to the bottom of the fire box 14 . while the principles of the present invention have now been made clear in an illustrative embodiment , it will become apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications of the structures , arrangements , and components presented in the above illustrations may be made in the practice of the invention in order to develop alternative embodiments suitable to specific operating requirements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims which follow . | US-56472890-A |
a network apparatus for self - testing network connectivity , a method thereof , and a method of analyzing frequency spectrum . the invention includes a link mode and a diagnostic mode . in the diagnostic mode , the mac self - tests the network apparatus for network connectivity at least in signal quality , link quality , and quality of service by generating output signals traveling from the transmitter to the receiver , thus providing a simple , low power consuming , and reliable means for troubleshooting errors . the method of analyzing frequency spectrum eliminates the need of an expensive spectrum analyzer by utilizing the transmitter to output signals detectable by the receiver , then calculating power level differences between selected channel and its adjacent channels of the channels assigned to the receiver , and comparing the calculated power level differences with a plurality of pre - determined threshold values stored in a memory controlled by the mac in order to meet standards and specifications . | fig4 illustrates a functional block diagram of the network apparatus according to the invention . the network apparatus 400 includes a receiver 410 , a transmitter 420 , an antenna 430 , and a media access control ( mac ) 490 . for self - testing network connectivity , the network apparatus 400 operates under a full duplex system . that is , the network apparatus 400 includes a first voltage - controlled oscillator ( vco ) and a second vco for controlling the transmitter 420 and the receiver 410 , respectively . the network apparatus 400 includes a link mode and a diagnostic mode . in the link mode , the network apparatus 400 establishes connection to a network 492 via the antenna 430 . instead of the conventional signal generator , the invention utilizes the transmitter 420 to transmit output signals generated by the mac 490 as the stimulus for the purpose of self - testing network connectivity . in the diagnostic mode , both the transceiver and the receiver are both involved , in which the output signals transmitted from the transmitter to the receiver are analyzed . that is , in the diagnostic mode , the mac 490 is to generate output signals that contain test signals in packets , frames or other formats , in which the output signals travel then along a signal path p from the transmitter 420 to the receiver 410 to be tested for network connectivity characteristics at least in signal quality , link quality , and quality of service ( qos ). fig5 a illustrates a network apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention . the network apparatus is a network capable device , such as a network interface card ( nic ) 500 . under the link mode , the nic 500 further operates under a transmit mode and a receive mode . the nic 500 includes a first switch , such as a transmitter / receiver ( t / r ) switch 540 , which operates under a predetermined protocol , and is configured such that the output signals from the transmitter 420 are transmitted to the network 492 in the transmit mode , and the incoming signals from the network 492 reaches the receiver 410 in the receive mode . the nic 500 further includes a second switch , such as an antenna / transmitter ( a / t ) switch 550 , an attenuator 560 , and a directional coupler 570 inter - disposed on the signal path p between the transmitter 420 and the receiver 410 . the attenuator 560 is for emulating channel attenuation . the aft switch 550 operates to connect the attenuator 560 to the receiver 410 in the diagnostic mode , and the output signals travel from the transmitter 420 to the receiver 410 via the order of passing through the directional coupler 570 and the attenuator 560 . the concept of switching is illustrated in fig5 b , showing the mode selection table for the network apparatus 500 of fig5 a under test . as shown in fig5 a , the t / r switch 540 can be selectively switched between position r and t , and the aft switch 550 can be selectively switched between position a and t . the switching of the t / r switch 540 and a / tswitch 550 depends on the modes of operation , i . e . link mode or diagnostic mode , under the control of a pre - determined protocol . that is , during the link mode , particularly , the transmit mode , the mac 490 is to perform an uplink to the network 492 via the transmitter 420 . hence , as shown in fig5 b , transmitter 420 is active and the t / r switch 540 and the a / t switch 550 are switched to positions t and a respectively . by such arrangements , the output signals generated by the mac 490 can be ensured to travel from the transmitter 420 to the directional coupler 570 and through the antenna 430 out to the network 492 , and not arriving at the receiver 410 . in the receive mode , the mac 490 is to downlink signals from the network 492 . hence , the t / r switch and the a / t switch are , switched to positions r and a , respectively , such that incoming signals from the network 492 travel via the antenna 430 to the receiver 410 and is processed by the mac 490 accordingly . additionally , mac 490 can also be in a crosslink with the network 492 such that the network apparatus 500 is operating successively between the transmit mode and the receive mode . under the diagnostic modes , as shown in fig5 b , both the transmitter 420 and the receiver 410 are active , and the t / r switch and the a / t switch are switched , under the predetermined protocol , to positions r and t respectively such that signals travel on the signal path p from the transmitter 420 to the receiver 410 via passing through the directional coupler 570 and the attenuator 560 . the predetermined protocol is for preferably a link logic control ( llc ). preferably , the network apparatus 500 is applied in a device controlled by a test controller 480 , such that the device is for instance a personal computer controlled by a test utility thereof . the test controller 480 is for controlling the network apparatus 500 to monitor connection status and make configuration and encryption settings to the transmitter 420 and the receiver 410 . the diagnostic mode further includes a transmit self - test mode , a receive self - test mode , and a crosslink self - test mode for testing different network connectivity characteristics of the network apparatus 500 . there are many signal quality parameters that are indicative of the network connectivity , and the below list is not exhaustive . for signal quality , for instance , one can observe receive signal strength indicator ( rssi ) and signal quality indicator in packet error rate ( per ), to determine receiver maximum and minimum output powers or observe relative signal strength indicators ( ssi ); one can observe transmit signal strength indicator ( tssi ) and signal quality indicator in packet error rate ( per ) or error vector magnitude ( evm ), or spectrum mask , to determine transmitter maximum and minimum output powers . for link quality , one can observe link quality indicators ( lqi ) in uplink / downlink throughputs or uplink / downlink packet loss rates and packet loss periods etc . for quality of service qos , one can observe indicators of qos ( iqos ) in uplink / downlink delays and uplink / downlink jitters etc . in the transmit self - test mode , the mac 490 is to tune the transmitter 420 such that the output signals are output substantially at a predetermined maximum power level satisfying a predetermined transmitter packet error rate ( per ) such that the transmitter output power is optimized . in the receive self - test mode , the media access control ( mac ) 490 is to tune the transmitter 420 such that the output signals are output substantially at a predetermined minimum power level satisfying a predetermined receiver per , such that the receiver sensitivity is checked . in the crosslink self - test mode , the media access control ( mac ) 490 is to tune the transmitter 420 such that the output signals are output at a rated or an average crosslink power level satisfying a predetermined lqi and a predetermined iqos , such that the link quality and the quality of service are checked . although in the first embodiment the invention has been demonstrated with the output signals being tested against a predetermined transmitter per , in the transmit self - test mode , to optimize transmitter output power , the output signals can alternatively be tested against a predetermined transmitter evm , or spectrum mask etc . fig6 a illustrates a network apparatus according to a second embodiment of the invention . the second embodiment is distinguished from the first embodiment in that , the network apparatus 600 includes a directional coupler 572 , an attenuator 560 , and a second switch ( such as an antenna / receiver ( a / r ) switch 552 ) that are inter - disposed on the signal path p between the transmitter 420 and the receiver 410 , such that when the a / r switch 552 connects the transmitter 420 to the attenuator 560 in the self - test mode , the output signals travel from the transmitter 420 to the receiver 410 instead via the order of passing through the attenuator 560 and the directional coupler 572 . fig6 b shows a mode selection table for the network apparatus of fig6 a under test . the a / r switch 552 operates similar to the a / t switch 550 of fig5 a . the notable distinction is that , under the diagnostic mode , the t / r switch 540 is instead switched to position t to avoid the incoming signals from the network 430 also traveling to the receiver 410 . as shown , the first and the second embodiments of the invention are cost - effective by simplifying and embedding the conventional test equipments into the network apparatus 500 . the transmitter and the receiver can be used in the diagnostic mode to check for device functionality . that is , if an apparent error has occurred from the network connectivity test , then it can be inferred that at least one of the transmitter 420 or the receiver 410 may be malfunctioning and the transmitter - receiver pair can be removed and replaced accordingly . also , the network apparatus according to the embodiments of the invention are relatively cheaper , lighter in weight , and less power consuming , and due to less complexity , are also less prone to errors . thus , the network apparatus according to the embodiment of the invention is especially viable commercially in that the manufacturer and even the buyer can diagnose the network apparatus in all network levels , including the phy and mac layers , to troubleshoot errors without expensive test equipments . additionally , the test controller 480 can utilize the network apparatus 500 to connect the device to another one of said device having another one of said network apparatus applied therein , for performing mutual network connectivity between the two network apparatuses . fig7 shows a block diagram of the mutual network connectivity test between two network apparatuses according to a preferred embodiment of the invention . the mutual network connectivity test involves network apparatuses 500 ( 1 ) and 500 ( 2 ), test controller 480 ( 1 ) and 480 ( 2 ) and an attenuator 710 . as shown in the figure , the network apparatus 500 ( 1 ), such as one shown in fig5 a , is controlled by the test controller 480 ( 1 ) and used as a reference device to test network connectivity of the network apparatus 500 ( 2 ), by sending output signals that travel through the attenuator 710 emulating channel attenuation . alternatively , the network apparatus 500 ( 2 ) can then subsequently used as the reference device to test network connectivity of the network apparatus 500 ( 1 ), i . e . the two can be used as reference devices interchangeably for mutual network connecting testing . in addition to being applied in a client station , for example a personal computer controlled by a test utility thereof , the network apparatus can also be applied in an embedded station in a basic service set ( bss ), while the test controller serves as an access point ( ap ) in the bss servicing the embedded station . the network apparatus can further be applied in an ap in an extended service set ( ess ), while the test controller acts as a server center in the ess servicing the ap . additionally , a method of self - testing network connectivity applied in the network apparatus , such as network apparatus 500 , is proposed . fig8 shows a preferred embodiment of the method of self - testing network connectivity . first , in the transmit self - test mode , the transmitter 420 is tuned to optimize uplink capability , such that the output signals are output substantially at a predetermined maximum power level satisfying a predetermined transmitter packet error rate ( per ), as indicated by step 810 . the predetermined transmitter per can for instance be stored in a solid - state memory of the device in which the network apparatus is applied . then , in the receive self - test mode , the transmitter 420 is tuned to check downlink capability , such that the output signals are output substantially at a predetermined minimum power level satisfying a predetermined receiver per , as shown by step 820 . to simulate the typical power of uplink and downlink traffic of the network apparatus in a link mode , step 830 is performed under the crosslink self - test mode to tune the transmitter 420 such that the output signals are output at a rated or an average crosslink power level . the transmitter is checked to see if the rated or average crosslink power level satisfies a predetermined link quality indicator ( lqi ) and a predetermined indicator of quality of service ( iqos ). the step 810 of optimizing uplink capability can include additional steps . fig9 shows the sub - steps of step 810 in optimizing uplink capability . first , step 910 is performed to read the output signals by the receiver 410 to obtain a first receiver signal quality indicator ( sqi ). for distant communications , it is important that the output power of the transmitter must be strong enough to ensure transfer quality . thus , step 920 is performed to tune the transmitter 420 to output substantially at the predetermined maximum power level such that the first receiver sqi is less than or equal to a predetermined first max sqi . since it is also important to have adequate minimum output power , such that in circumstances in which the network apparatus is , for instance , applied in a client station and is in close proximity with an ap , the transmitter 420 may be additionally tuned to output the output signals substantially at a predetermined minimum output power level such that the first receiver sqi is less than or equal to a predetermined first min sqi ( step not shown ). to optimize downlink capability , transmitter per is preferably checked along with the transmitter maximum power level test of step 920 ; the two factors are trade - offs of each other , and there is a limit to the strength of the maximum output power . that is , if the output power of the transmitter 420 is increased to saturation , signals in ofdm ( orthogonal frequency division multiplexing ) and qam ( quadrature amplitude modulation ), for instance , can become worse due to transmitter nonlinearity that the associated per increases significantly . consequently , step 930 is performed to read a first receiver signal strength indicator ( rssi ) from the output signals . thereafter , step 940 is performed to tune the transmitter 420 to output the output signals substantially at the predetermined transmitter per , such that the first rssi is within a predetermined rssi range preferably having a lower limit of 18 dbm and an upper limit of 20 dbm . the transmitter 420 is tuned limiting the per of the output signals within the predetermined rssi range in order to ensure that the signal strength satisfies the associated wi - fi standard , emi / fcc requirements , and other factory specifications . fig1 shows the sub - steps of step 820 in checking downlink capability . in the receive self - test mode , a second receiver signal quality indicator ( sqi ) associated with the output signals is read from the receiver 410 , as shown in step 1010 . the transmitter 420 is then tuned to output substantially at the predetermined minimum power level such that the second receiver sqi , when read from the output signals at the receiver 410 for checking receiver sensitivity , is less than or equal to a predetermined second max sqi , as shown in step 1020 . as analogous to the transmit self - test mode , due to trade - off relationship , the receiver per in the receive self - test mode is preferably tested jointly with the receiver sensitivity step 1020 . consequently , a second receiver signal strength indicator ( rssi ) associated with the output signals is read from the receiver 410 , as shown in step 1030 , and the transmitter is tuned to output the output signals substantially at the predetermined receiver per such that the second rssi is less than or equal to a predetermined maximum rssi , as shown in step 1040 . since it is also important to have adequate maximum input power , such that in circumstances in which the network apparatus is , for instance , applied in a client station and is in close proximity with an ap , the transmitter 420 may be additionally tuned to output the output signals substantially at a predetermined maximum input power level such that the second receiver sqi is less than or equal to a predetermined second min sqi ( step not shown ). that is , if the input power of the receiver 410 is increased to saturation , signals in ofdm ( orthogonal frequency division multiplexing and qam ( quadrature amplitude modulation ), for instance , can become worse due to receiver nonlinearity that the associated per increases significantly . fig1 shows a flow chart of the sub - steps of step 830 in checking crosslink capability . first , under the crosslink self - test mode , step 1110 is performed to read link quality indicator ( lqi ) associated with the output signals at the receiver 410 . the transmitter is tuned at a rated or an average power level to see if the lqi is greater than or equal to the predetermined lqi , as shown in step 1120 . in cases when the output signals contain time dependent data i . e . audio / video data , it is important to check , in addition to link quality and signal quality , for the quality of service so as to ensure no delays or jitters to the audio / video during the transfer . thus , as shown in step 1130 , an indicator of quality of service ( iqos ) associated with the output signals is read from the receiver 410 , and the transmitter is then tuned at a rated or an average power level to see if the iqos is less than or equal to the predetermined iqos , as shown in step 1140 . to overcome conventional needs for the presence of an expensive spectrum analyzer , which comes at the price of tens of thousands , to analyze frequency spectrum of the output signals , a novel method of analyzing frequency spectrum is proposed . the invention reconstructs the frequency spectrum by summing the output signals at the side of receiver 410 , where the output signals are transmitted from the respective channels assigned to the transmitter 420 . the channels often have reserved overlap regions ; as a result , the output signals reconstructed , by combining frequency - domain mainbeam and sidelobe patterns detected from individual channels , may not appear identical to one constructed from a spectrum analyzer . however , it bears enough resemblance to be useful in determining whether the output signals reconstructed meets , for instance , the specification of an 802 . 11g standard , by checking the power level differences of the output signals with a plurality of predetermined threshold values . fig1 shows a method of analyzing frequency spectrum according to a preferred embodiment of the invention . the method is applied in a network apparatus for self - testing network connectivity , such as one shown in fig5 a . the network apparatus 500 includes a plurality of channels per each radio ( transmitter or receiver ). the total channel number is increased if dual - band ( or tri - band ; or quad - band ) transmitter or receiver is used in a combo network apparatus . the total channel number is double ( or triple ; or quadruple ) if two ( or three ; or four ) transmitters or receivers are used in a multiple - input - multiple - output ( mimo ) network apparatus . for instance and as a basic example , in an ieee 802 . 11b wireless lan system , the frequency band is divided into 11 overlapped channels of 22 megahertz ( mhz ) each . the transmitter 420 and the receiver 410 are assigned m and n channels of the plurality of channels , respectively , where m and n are positive integers . generally , integers m and n are set to be equal . the method of analyzing frequency spectrum begins at step 1210 , in which the transmitter 420 transmits , by a selected channel of the m channels assigned to the transmitter 420 , a plurality of output signals at a high - limit power level . the output signals are transmitted at a high - limit power in order for the receiver 410 to be able to detect the lowest sidelobes of the frequency domain pattern formed by the output signals , which are often low in power . at step 1220 , the receiver 410 receives the output signals via the n channels assigned to the receiver 410 , for measuring corresponding power level at each channel of the n channels assigned to the receiver 410 . then , step 1230 is performed to calculate power level differences between the received power of the channel of the n channels assigned to the receiver 410 , which corresponding to the channel of the m channels assigned to the transmitter 420 , and the received powers of the adjacent channels . at step 1240 , the calculated power level differences , collectively forming a frequency spectrum , are compared with a plurality of pre - determined threshold values of spectrum mask , stored in a memory controlled by the media access control 490 , such as the solid - state memory in the device of which the network apparatus 500 is applied . then , step 1250 is performed to generate another set of output signals at a high - limit power level by another selected channel of the remaining m channels assigned to the transmitter 420 and step 1220 is returned . that way , by generating output signals sequentially one by one from the m channels assigned to the transmitter 420 , and then subsequently having the output signals received simultaneously by all the n channels assigned to the receiver 410 , the plurality of frequency spectra of the output signals can be constructed . the memory can store m sets of pre - determined threshold values in the form of a look - up table to correspond to the different sets of output signals outputted individually from the m channels assigned to the transmitter 420 . the reasoning can be better understood with reference to fig1 a - d . as shown in fig1 a , it illustrates a couple of frequency spectra of the outputs signals transmitted by the transmitter 420 . as shown in fig1 b , it illustrates the individual frequency response of the receiver channels , the receiver is shown with 11 bandpass channels with a bandwidth of 22 mhz . the channels are overlapped , and have a crossover region of 5 mhz . fig1 a illustrates frequency spectra 1310 and 1320 of the output signals transmitted from transmitter 420 as having single mainbeam and multiple sidelobes . the transmitter 420 for instance has 11 channels ( m = 11 ), with each channel being equidistant from one another , and frequency spectra 1310 and 1320 are for instance generated by channel 1 and channel 6 of the 11 channels , respectively . during the step of 1210 , the selected channel of the m channels , such as channel 1 , is to transmit the output signals with a frequency spectrum of 1310 . due to spectral alignment , the channels assigned to the receiver 410 only receive part the frequency spectrum 1310 . namely , suppose the spectral distribution of the channels of the transmitter and the receiver are drawn into perspective in fig1 a and 13b , then the part of the frequency spectrum 1310 to the left with respect to the y axis is out of the range of the channels of the receiver 410 , and is therefore not detected . consequently , the constructed frequency - domain pattern of the output signals , as received by the receiver 410 , has the shape shown in fig1 c . in case of channel 6 of the m channels , on the other hand , the frequency spectrum 1320 generated therefrom is properly aligned with the n (= 11 ) channels of the receiver 410 . thus , the constructed frequency - domain pattern of the output signals originating from channel 6 of the transmitter has the shape as shown in fig1 d . thus , as shown , the memory may be preferable to store m sets of pre - determined threshold values to correspond to the different sets of output signals outputted individually from the m channels assigned to the transmitter 420 . additionally , a check - result summary can be displayed according to the calculated power level differences and the pre - determined threshold values , such as in the form of a histogram , which can provide users a viewing on a display screen . the check - result summary may be used as a basis for tuning the high - limit power of the output signal such that the calculated power level differences are substantially equal to the corresponding pre - determined threshold values , thus satisfying the specification of , for instance , the wi - fi standard . an additional sub - step may further be included to check whether the n channels assigned to the receiver 410 have finished in receiving the output signals from all of the m channels assigned to the transmitter 420 . accordingly , by applying the method of analyzing frequency spectrum , according to the embodiment of the invention serving the function of a conventional spectrum analyzer , costs , size and weight of the network apparatus are effectively minimized . the method can optimize the transmitter to fit the spectrum mask requirement which is particularly related to wifi standard . while the invention has been described by way of example and in terms of a preferred embodiment , it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto . on the contrary , it is intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements and procedures , and the scope of the appended claims therefore should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements and procedures . | US-25186405-A |
heavy metal ions are recovered from a dilute aqueous solution by flowing the solution through either a single bed of ion - absorbing material in successive forward and reverse directions , or through a first bed of ion - absorbing material and thereafter through a second bed of ion - absorbing material in the reverse direction of flow . the reversal of flow is to periodically mechanically agitate a bed of ion - absorbing material to dislodge contaminants , such as gelatin . the method is accomplished by using one enclosed vessel , or a pair of enclosed vessels , that have valves to control the direction of flow . a timing device preferably automatically reverses the direction of flow about each hour . after a relatively large number of reversals of flow the heavy metal ions are recovered from the ion - absorbing material and the same is regenerated in the process to again absorb ions from the dilute aqueous solution . | in fig1 heavy metal ions originate in photographic processing machines 1 , 2 , 3 , such as for developing color motion picture film . the ion is silver . processing machine 1 is regarded as located close to the recovery apparatus , thus , pipe 4 leads directly to collector tank 5 . processing machines 2 and 3 are regarded as remotely located in the laboratory , and so these feed transfer tanks 6 and 7 , respectively . submersible pumps are employed to move the effluent from the transfer tanks to collector tank 5 . these are pump 8 for tank 6 , with discharge through pipe 10 , and pump 9 for tank 7 , with discharge through pipe 11 . all of these tanks have at least partially open tops with provision for containing and passing of any overflow , should such happen because of malfunctioning of the subsequent apparatus not accepting the normal flow of effluent from the processing machines . this provision is of major importance in apparatus of this kind . if the ion recovery apparatus should &# 34 ; back up &# 34 ;, the normal discharge from the processing machines would cease if the two were directly connected and spoilage of solutions and / or film being processed would result . the dilute aqueous solution in tank 5 passes from it through pipe 12 , normally open valve 14 , pump 15 , flow meters 17 and 18 , pipe 19 , hydraulically operated valve 20 , pipe 21 , and into vessel 22 , to begin the recovery process . pump 15 exerts enough pressure to provide a flow that is typically 1 / 3 to 1 / 6 the volume of the resin , per minute . this pressure is of the order of 2 . 8 kilograms per square centimeter . a drain valve 23 for tank 5 is connected to pipe 12 , and via pipe 24 a bypass to the sewer is provided to drain away any liquid that must be eliminated from the system . another valve 25 is teed from pipe 19 to allow sampling of this part of the system for reasons of set - up or emergency . the dilute aqueous solution passes from vessel 22 through pipe 26 into second vessel 27 , and thence through hydraulically operated valve 28 and a pipe cross fitting through valve 61 to the main drain , since the heavy metal ion has now been removed from the solution . at this time , adjacent valves 30 and 62 are closed . after about two - hundred hours of operation upon the dilute aqueous solution the silver is recovered in metallic form in silver plater 33 . the treated silver - bearing solution from holding tank 32 , largely silver chloride , passes therefrom through pipe 34 , pump 35 , and through valve 36 into the silver plater . a return pipe 37 runs from the silver plater to the holding tank , and the latter has a drain valve 38 . a mix tank 40 is utilized for holding the regenerative solution for the ion - absorbing material 67 and 67 &# 39 ; in vessels 22 and 27 . see fig2 . this solution is introduced into the system when required via pipe 31 and valve 42 . this valve is normally closed , but when regeneration is to be performed , valve 14 is closed , valve 42 is opened , and pump 15 is operated to pass the regenerative solution to the vessels . in order for the flow of the dilute aqueous solution to be reversed through vessels 22 and 27 , two more hydraulically operated valves 48 and 45 and appropriate plumbing are employed . pipe 19 also connects to pipe 44 , which latter connects to the third hydraulically operated valve 45 . the discharge side of the latter valve is connected to vessel 27 through pipe 46 . the significant reverse flow pipes are shown dotted for identification in fig1 and 6 . for accomplishing the reverse flow , valve 20 is closed and valve 45 is opened . similarly , valve 28 is closed and valve 48 is opened . as to structure , pipe 29 is teed into pipe 47 , which is connected to fourth hydraulically operated valve 48 . the inlet side of this valve is teed into pipe 21 by pipe 49 . it is seen that with this configuration the flow of the dilute aqueous solution through vessels 22 and 27 is reversed . the relatively large capacity hydraulically operated valves previously described are preferably actuated by water pressure controlled by relatively small solenoid operated valves . the solenoid valves are , in turn , preferably actuated by an electrical timer . of course , large solenoid , motor , pneumatic , or manually operated valves may be employed where a secondary factor dictates . accordingly , in fig1 element 51 is an electric timer of any type that is suited to give repeated electrical outputs each 60 minutes , and to allow the time period to be adjusted by perhaps 15 minutes plus or minus . two similar solenoid valves 52 , 53 are connected to timer 51 for actuation thereby . each valve is connected to a reliable source of water , such as a city source 54 . the valves may be of 1 / 4 &# 34 ; size , with the accompanying piping of 1 / 4 &# 34 ; tubing ( 0 . 64 centimeters ). an atmospheric drain 55 is also provided , teed into the tubing between the two switches , in order to relieve the pressure from the control lines , as 56 , 60 , to allow hydraulic valves 28 , 48 , to open . valve 52 is normally energized , thus providing a through opening horizontally . valve 53 is normally unenergized , thus providing a through opening from the water pressure in connection 54 to the left - hand tubing 56 . this pressure in exerted upon the control port of hydraulically operated valves 48 and 45 , to close them , thus causing the &# 34 ; direct &# 34 ; flow of the dilute aqueous solution through the vessels from 22 to 27 . valve 53 does not allow water pressure from connection 54 to be exerted at the right - hand tubing connection 57 . thus , there is no pressure through valve 52 , nor in tubings 58 , 59 , or 60 , and so valves 20 and 28 are open . upon receiving impulses from timer 51 after a suitable interval , such as 60 minutes during continuous operation of the apparatus at a rate of 60 liters per minute , valve 52 is unenergized and valve 53 is energized . this removes the pressure from tubing 56 and applies pressure to tubings 58 , 59 , and 60 . hydraulically operated valves 20 and 28 are closed and valves 48 and 45 are opened . a &# 34 ; reversed &# 34 ; flow of the dilute aqueous solution through the vessels from 27 to 22 thus occurs . the ion - absorbing material in vessel 22 is thus agitated by an up - from - the - bottom flow , rather than the same occurring in vessel 27 , as prior . the outflow of relatively pure and heavy metal ion - free water is discharged from the apparatus through valve 61 , which is normally open and connects to a main drain or sewer . an additional valve 62 is typically also provided in order to obtain samples of the discharge water for observation or analysis . when the regeneration cycle previously mentioned is performed , main drain valve 61 is closed . in addition , valve 30 is opened to let the regeneration solution accumulate in holding tank 32 . in silver plater 33 a voltage of 0 . 6 volt dc is sufficient to accomplish the recovery of the metallic silver on electrodes therein . this occurs because the solution present in plater 33 contains silver chloride , agcl . to recover the silver from the rinse water of a photographic processing machine , with the silver in anionic form of silver thiosulfate , the preferred regenerative solution is ammonium chloride , ( nh 4 ) cl , in a 5 molal concentration . between regeneration cycles the ammonium chloride is stored in holding tank 32 , since the solution may be used again and again . fig2 is an enlarged sectional elevation view of the two vessels 22 and 27 of fig1 . in fig2 inlet pipe enters annular first internal pipe 64 . the showing is partly schematic , with the thickness of the pipes and of the vessels omitted . pipe 64 surrounds second internal pipe 65 , and has multiple orifices that have the preferred form of narrow slits 66 . the width of each slit is less than the grain size of ion - absorbing material 67 so that this material will not be lost due to the flow of the dilute aqueous solution . a preferred such material is a resin that is a cross - linked polystyrene with quaternary ammonium functional groups of the general formula r c 6 h 4 ch 2 n ( ch 3 ) 3 cl . this is commercially obtainable as duolite a101d ion exchange resin , from the diamond shamrock chemical co ., nopco chemical division , redwood city , calif . 94063 . a semiporous grade has superior physical flow characteristics and is preferred for use with this invention . this is a strong base anion resin . typically , the mobile ion is the chloride , which is exchanged for the silver thiosulfate . for a cation resin , which is to be exchanged for a metal salt , as in gold or uranium mining , diamond shamrock duolite c25d may be used . the preferred grain size of the resin is within the range of from 16 to 50 mesh , u . s . standard sieve ( approximately 1 millimeter ). the grain typically has an irregular multifaceted shape . as a consequence , the open dimension of the width of the several slits 66 , 69 , etc . is approximately 0 . 3 mm width . the length may be 50 mm for each slit . the several curved arrows indicated the dilute aqueous solution flowing out of first internal pipe 64 . the level of ion - absorbing material ( resin ) 67 within vessel 22 is illustrative , and it is not totally filling . typically , each vessel , as 22 , has a 151 liter capacity , with a diameter of 40 centimeters and a height of 150 cm for the main body . the volume of resin is 0 . 113 cubic meters for this size vessel . of course , these dimensions may be varied , with the capacity to remove ions proportionally affected . the purpose of not totally filling the vessel is to allow space for physical agitation of the resin when the vessel is &# 34 ; back - flowed &# 34 ;, as is shown in vessel 27 in fig2 . internal pipe 65 terminates at the bottom of vessel 22 with an enlarged cylindrical portion 68 , which may have a diameter of 5 cm and a length of 20 cm . it has further multiple orifices 69 . in the direct flow mode , the dilute aqueous solution , now at least partially relieved of heavy metal ions , is shown entering the several slit orifices by curved arrows . since vessel 22 is sealed and the aqueous solution is under pressure because of the operation of pump 15 of fig1 the solution passes upward through internal pipe 65 and passes to vessel 27 through schematically represented pipe 26 . in vessel 27 pipe 26 connects to a further embodiment of internal pipe 65 , being identified as 65 &# 39 ;, and having an enlarged cylindrical portion 68 &# 39 ;, with further multiple orifices 69 &# 39 ;. the curved arrows here indicate the aqueous solution passing out of orifices into resin 67 &# 39 ;. the schematic showing of less resin material adjacent to these orifices indicates that the resin is physically agitated , displaced , and is in motion at this location . this effect continues upward throughout vessel 27 , with the agitation decreasing with upward distance . the resin material does occupy the volume to the top of the vessel in this reverse flow mode , as is shown in fig2 . at the top of vessel 27 the curved arrows enter annular inner pipe 70 . this marks the completion of the flow to remove the heavy metal ion from the dilute agueous solution . the effluent passes externally through valve 28 , pipe 50 , and thence to an ultimate discharge , being ecologically compatible with the environment . a prime mode of operation of the apparatus of this invention has to do with the prevention of packing of the ion - absorbing material 67 and hence maintaining a necessary freedom of solution flow by mechanical agitation of the material on alternate hour - long intervals . agitation includes the method step of flowing said solution upward through the bed of ion - absorbing material at a discharge velocity into said material of not more than one - half of the resin volume of solution per minute . it is known that this method allows satisfactory commercial operation approximately sixteen times longer than when the method is not employed . fig3 is illustrative of a large capacity apparatus , in which the pairs of vessels 22 and 27 are duplicated in parallel at 22 &# 39 ; and 27 &# 39 ;, 22 &# 34 ; and 27 &# 34 ;, and so on if desired . one commercial installation has eight such pairs . this gives a flowing capacity of approximately 480 liters per minute . pipe 72 is illustrative of the dilute aqueous solution input pipe 19 in fig1 . pipe 73 is illustrative of the outlet pipe 29 in fig1 . flow control valves having flexible orifices , such as are manufactured the the dole company , may be placed in the line of each of the parallel pairs 22 , 27 ; 22 &# 39 ;, 27 &# 39 ;; 22 &# 34 ;, 27 &# 34 ;, etc . to insure that each of these pairs will carry a substantially equal portion of the total flow of the dilute aqueous solution . the additional piping for changing the direction of flow , such as pipes 21 , 46 , 47 , 49 , 50 in fig1 has not been shown in the simplified fig3 , 5 , but this piping is present for each pair of vessels . fig4 illustrates a series arrangement of pairs of vessels for removing two different kinds of heavy metal ions . such a system is useful for removing first the ferricyanide complex used in color motion picture film processing , and secondly , the silver thiosulfate , as from the hypo wash , in this series arrangement of processing . in fig4 is the input pipe . vessel pair 22 and 27 remove the ferricyanide ion . series - connected thereto by pipe 75 is pair 22 &# 39 ; and 27 &# 39 ;, which remove the silver thiosulfate ion . the suitable resin has a significantly greater affinity for the relatively high concentration of ferricyanide ion than for the silver ion ; thus the recited order of processing . the outlet pipe is 76 . the dotted lines adjacent to pipes 74 and 76 indicate that the two pairs of vessels may be duplicated by additional two pairs , as may be desired , in order to increase the throughput of the dilute solution of the apparatus . where the two different heavy metal ions discussed with respect to fig4 arise from separate sources , as is possible with the separate tanks in photographic and other processing , the parallel arrangement of pairs of vessels of fig5 may be used . pipe 77 conveys one heavy metal ion solution to vessel pair 22 and 27 , while pipe 78 conveys another heavy metal ion solution to vessel pair 22 &# 39 ; and 27 &# 39 ;. the ions may have any affinity for the resin material and the temporary failure of one pair of vessels will not contaminate the other pair of vessels . also , each separate pair can be duplicated , as shown in fig3 for greater flow capacity . a single outlet pipe 79 connects to both pairs of vessels in fig5 for a common discharge of typically ecologically - acceptable water . the concentration of heavy metal ions in the dilute aqueous solution , as silver in thiosulfate wash water , may run from 3 to 50 parts per million , typically . after treatment according to this invention , approximately 90 % of the silver present is recovered and prevented from containing the ecology . by providing a greater ratio of resin material to flow , 100 % of the silver can be removed from the effluent . fig6 is a sectional view of a single vessel alternate embodiment of the invention . the single vessel 22 shown is essentially that of 22 of fig1 . as before , flow - reversing hydraulically operated valves 20 , 28 , 45 , 48 act to reverse the flow through the single vessel . control solenoid valves 52 , 53 , or equivalent , and timer 51 act to control the main valves as before . in effect , pipe 26 is connected to flow - reversing valves 28 , 45 , rather than to the former second vessel 27 . timer 51 reverses the flow of the dilute solution , as before , with perhaps a shorter period to match the single bed of resin rather than two beds as in fig1 . fig3 , 5 have illustrated multiple vessel processing assemblies , each showing pairs of processing vessels as the unit . the single processing vessel of fig6 can be substituted for a pair of vessels in any of these assemblies . while specific data have been given herein by way of example , the size of the vessels and the flow rate may be altered to handle larger or smaller quantities of incoming solution . the volume of resin that has been specified is for the chloride form thereof . with attainable care and cleanliness , the life of the resins and of the halide or thiocyanate salt regenerant , is substantially limitless . | US-76466977-A |
disparate robotic devices can be automatically recharged and reprogrammed by self - scheduling individual time slots for the available recharging area of a charging station . these charging stations provide a nest to which each robot must return periodically for power . these nests can also provide new tasking or patches for the robotic devices . the charging station and the robotic devices are both provided with communications capabilities and a protocol by which they can negotiate to find a time slot in which the device can be recharged , as well as determining a correct connector and a battery type . | the invention will now be described with regard to the drawings . with attention first to fig1 a and 1 b , nesting station 100 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention . in its broadest embodiments , nesting station 100 of the present invention is designed to offer charging ( and retasking , if needed ) to as wide a variety of robotic devices as possible . to this end , nesting station 100 has base 102 onto which a robotic device can roll by means of beveled edge 103 . the top surface of nesting station 100 is generally flat to provide a stable surface on which the robotic devises can rest . two metal plates form respectively negative terminal 104 and positive terminal 108 . between these two contact plates , infrared ( ir ) transmitter / receiver 106 allows communications between nesting device 100 and the robotic devices . infrared transmissions can be used for point - to - point communications when there are no obstructions between the charging station and robotic device . when the communications is point - to - point , it is necessary that a protocol exist for regular contact between the nesting station and the robotic devices whenever they are within line of sight . this contact can be initiated by nesting station 100 or by the robotic devices , but should include checking the battery level in order to estimate time until a charge is needed . alternatively , a trigger point can be set for each robot , indicating a battery level at which the device should seek recharging . the value of this trigger point would be determined according to the number of robotic devices using the nesting station , the length of time necessary for charging , the level of activity of the robotic devices , etc . when it is determined that the battery has reached a trigger point , the robotic device requests a time slot for charging . nesting station 100 keeps a record of scheduled charging times so that two devices are not attempting to charge at the same time . nesting station 100 and robotic devices then work through a suitable protocol to schedule a time . the robotic device can proceed to nesting station 100 , if it is available , or return to work until nesting station 100 is free . because the nesting station 100 has a generalized structure , it is possible that the station 100 can offer charging to many different types of batteries . to this end , the nesting station 100 is preferably configured to determine the type of battery to be charged and to shift its output characteristics accordingly . fig2 shows small robotic cleaning device 202 that has returned to nesting unit 100 as scheduled . robotic device 202 has rolled onto base 102 of nesting unit 100 , using wheels 204 . once there , robotic device 202 either extends or allows to drop two metal connectors 206 . these will contact respectively positive contact 108 and negative contact 104 . at the same time , an infrared port ( not shown ) on the bottom of robotic device 202 is brought into alignment with ir port 406 on top of nesting station 100 . further communications , such as new tasks to be performed or upgrades to the software of the robotic device , can be downloaded to the device while it is charging . fig3 a and 3b show an alternate version of the innovative nesting device . in this version , there are two main changes from the embodiment of fig1 a and 1b . first , electrical connectors 304 , 308 on nesting station 300 are much larger , taking up most of the surface area on base 302 . secondly , rather than ir 106 , the device is equipped with a technology , such as bluetooth ( a short - range radio signal ), wifi ( wireless fidelity , a generic term for any type of 802 . 11 network ), or a similar technology . these technologies do not require line - of - sight to operate and thus has more flexibility in communicating with the robotic devices . fig4 discloses another embodiment of the innovative nesting station . in this embodiment , electrodes 404 , 408 are placed , one above the other , in a tower arrangement . body 410 of nesting station 400 can be mounted on a stable base 401 or can be attached to a wall for stability . communications link 406 can utilize any of the wireless technologies available . fig5 is another embodiment in which contacts 504 , 508 are in a vertical configuration , with body 510 either supported by base 502 or fastened to a wall . again , communications link 506 can utilize any of the wireless technologies . in both fig4 and 5 , the robotic device does not rest on the nesting station , but moves into close proximity so that positive and negative terminals of the battery are able to come into contact with the contacts . in an alternate embodiment , the nesting device does not contain generic , flat contacts , but a number of different styles of contacts are made available to suit the needs of a variety of robotic devices . fig6 demonstrates a fanciful version of this embodiment of the invention , with three connectors 610 , 612 , 614 provided . in this embodiment the processor will keep a separate schedule for each type of connector ; a robotic device will need to know and communicate the type of connection it requires . fig7 demonstrates circuitry 700 necessary to run the innovative nesting unit . in this diagram , a combined power converter and charging circuit 702 receives power from the main power grid and converts it to the proper voltage needed by the robotic devices . this converted power is sent to the positive and negative terminals of the nesting station and from there into the battery of the robotic unit . in the preferred embodiment , the power converter and charging circuit 702 are adapted to charge more than one battery type . to this end , the power converter and charging circuit 702 preferably has the ability to shift its output characteristics from voltage source to current source , as well as the ability to monitor the charging current and voltage and the charging time . processor 708 , which is connected to memory 710 , controls power converter 702 . processor 708 has connections to communications module 712 for communicating with the robotic devices and to clock 714 that supplies date and time . a schedule of charging times can be kept in memory 710 for access when scheduling . fig8 demonstrates circuitry 800 necessary to run the innovative robotic device . in this illustrative embodiment , the robotic device 800 contains a processor 808 that directs its activity according to instructions stored in the memory 810 . the robotic device 800 also contains some type of device that provides mobility 816 for the robotic device , a clock 814 for determining the time , and communications capabilities 812 to allow it to communicate with the charging station . the processor 808 , clock 814 , and communications device 812 are all powered by battery 802 . battery 802 is in turn charged using external connectors 804 . fig9 demonstrates an exemplary flowchart of a method by which the nesting station and the robotic devices can negotiate charging times . in this exemplary embodiment , a triggering device on a robotic device has detected that the battery charge is getting low . the robotic device will contact the nesting station ( step 910 ) at the first available moment . if a line - of - sight form of communication is utilized , there can be a delay in time between the device noticing that charging is needed and contacting the nesting station . if a robotic device follows a preset route , this may mean waiting until reaching a known location where communications are possible ; if not , the device can periodically attempt communications until a response is received . once the nesting station is contacted , the robotic unit requests a time slot for charging . if a number of different types of connectors are available , the unit will also identify the type of connector necessary . depending on its programming , the nesting station checks the availability of the needed connector and if necessary , the priority of the robotic device , then assigns a time slot to the robotic device ( step 915 ). the priority of a robotic device can be important if the nesting station is shared , for example , by some devices that are used daily and others that are only needed weekly or sporadically . a device that is used only weekly may have a low priority if the device is not scheduled to be used for several days , but can be bumped up in priority nearer to the time of its use . in systems where only a few robotic devices are used , the scheduling can be very simple , while a corporation using a large number of mobile robotic devices can have a more complex scheduling algorithm as necessary . the nesting station notifies the robotic device of the next available slot and sets that time aside for this particular device ( step 920 ). unless a slot is available immediately , the robotic device will store the time at which it is scheduled for charging . when this time nears , the robot reports at the nesting station for charging . the nesting station can verify that this robotic device is indeed for this time slot and grant permission for charging ( step 925 ). at that time , the robotic device can position itself and begin charging ( step 930 ). while the device is recharging , the nesting station can check to see is there is an outstanding order to retask the robotic device by providing new or updated instructions , whether patches are needed in the programming ( step 935 ). if so , the nesting station can communicate this to the robotic device and proceed to provide updating while the robotic device is charging ( step 940 ). because the robotic devices themselves perform their own charging and updating , the owner or manager of the robotic devices does not need to contact each robotic device individually . instead , the manager simply provides instructions to the nesting station ( s ) and allows the nesting station ( s ) to coordinate the updates with the robotic devices themselves . one of ordinary skill in the art will realize that variations in this flowchart are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention . one such example can be an environment where only a few robotic devices are used and the nesting unit is available much of the time . in this environment , the nesting station can be programmed to respond to a request for charging with a simple notification that the charger is currently available or not available . the requesting robotic device can be instructed to check back in a given amount of time to see if the nesting station is available . alternatively , where a large number of robotic units share a nesting station , a request from a high priority robotic device can cause another , already scheduled , robotic device to be “ bumped ” out of its time slot into a later slot . in this case , the nesting station must contact the device originally scheduled and negotiate a later time for charging . in a further alternate embodiment , the negotiations can be more extensive . for example , if a robotic device has a regular schedule of activity it must maintain , the robotic device can be programmed to provide suggested time slots when it is available for recharging ; the nesting station can then verify that a suggested time is available or not , or can bump a lower priority device from a needed slot . thus , the exact protocol for negotiation can be varied according to the environment , but the embodiments of the inventive nesting system allow the robotic devices to regularly schedule and receive nesting without human intervention . it is important to note that while the present invention has been described in the context of a fully functioning data processing system , those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the processes of the present invention are capable of being distributed in the form of a computer readable medium of instructions and a variety of forms and that the present invention applies equally regardless of the particular type of signal bearing media actually used to carry out the distribution . examples of computer readable media include recordable - type media , such as a floppy disk , a hard disk drive , a ram , cd - roms , dvd - roms , and transmission - type media , such as digital and analog communications links , wired or wireless communications links using transmission forms , such as , for example , radio frequency and light wave transmissions . the computer readable media may take the form of coded formats that are decoded for actual use in a particular data processing system . the description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description , and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed . many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art . the embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention , the practical application , and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated . | US-96738310-A |
one embodiment is a unique vehicle having a hybrid drive system . other embodiments include unique hybrid drive systems . still other embodiments include apparatuses , systems , devices , hardware , methods , and combinations for fluid driven actuation systems . further embodiments , forms , features , aspects , benefits , and advantages of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith . | for purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention , reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings , and specific language will be used to describe the same . it will nonetheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is intended by the illustration and description of certain embodiments of the invention . in addition , any alterations and / or modifications of the illustrated and / or described embodiment ( s ) are contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention . further , any other applications of the principles of the invention , as illustrated and / or described herein , as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains , are contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention . referring to the drawings , and in particular fig1 , a non - limiting example of some aspects of a vehicle 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is schematically depicted . in one form , vehicle 10 is an over - the - road truck . in other embodiments , vehicle 10 may take other forms , and may be , for example and without limitation , an agricultural , construction and / or forestry vehicle , or may be a passenger vehicle such as an automobile , or a utility vehicle or pick - up truck . vehicle 10 includes a hybrid drive system 12 and a drive train 14 . in one form , hybrid drive system 12 is a hybrid vehicle drive system operative to provide propulsive power for vehicle 10 . in other embodiments , hybrid drive system 12 may be employed to power other machines or systems . hybrid drive system 12 is coupled to drive train 14 and operative to provide mechanical shaft power to drive train 14 for powering vehicle 10 . hybrid drive system 12 includes a combustion engine 16 , a clutch 18 , an electrical machine 20 and an accessory drive system 22 . drive train 14 includes a transmission 24 and a vehicle drive axle 26 . transmission 24 is coupled to electrical machine 20 and to drive axle 26 . transmission 24 is operative to transmit power from hybrid drive system 12 to drive axle 26 for powering vehicle 10 . transmission 24 may take any convenient form , and may be , for example and without limitation , a manual transmission , an automatic transmission , a hydrostatic transmission or any other type of transmission suitable for transmitting power to a drive axle of a vehicle . drive axle 26 may take any convenient form , e . g ., a differential drive train or a hydrostatic drive suitable for receiving power from transmission 24 and applying tractive effort for vehicle 10 . in one form , combustion engine 16 is diesel engine . in other embodiments , combustion engine 10 may take other forms , and may be , for example and without limitation , a gasoline engine or a gas turbine engine . electrical machine 20 is configured to convert electrical power into mechanical power . the electrical power may be supplied to electrical machine 20 from , for example and without limitation , a battery ( not shown ); a fuel cell ( not shown ); or another electrical machine , such as a generator ( not shown ). in one form , electrical machine 20 is also configured to convert mechanical power into electrical power . for example , in one form , electrical machine 20 is a motor / generator . in other embodiments , electrical machine 20 may take other forms . electrical machine 20 is coupled to combustion engine 16 . in one form , electrical machine 20 is coupled to engine 16 via clutch 18 in a series arrangement configured to transmit mechanical power to drive train 14 in series with electrical machine 20 . electrical machine 20 is coupled to drive train 14 , and is operative to transmit propulsive power to drive train 14 . combustion engine 16 is configured to transmit propulsive power to drive train 14 via electrical machine 20 . in one form , electrical machine 20 is coupled to transmission 24 . transmission 24 is operative to transmit power from combustion engine 16 and electrical machine 20 to drive axle 26 . in other embodiments , electrical machine 20 may be coupled to one or more other drive train components of a vehicle , such as vehicle 10 . clutch 18 is coupled to both combustion engine 16 and electrical machine 20 . in one form , clutch 18 is configured to selectively engage combustion engine 16 with electrical machine 20 , and to disengage combustion engine 18 from electrical machine 20 , e . g ., in response to a control signal or other actuation / de - actuation arrangement . when clutch 18 is actuated , combustion engine 16 is engaged with electrical machine 20 so that the power output of combustion engine 16 may be transmitted to transmission 24 . when clutch 18 is de - actuated , combustion engine 16 is disengaged from electrical machine 20 , e . g ., so that the rotational speed of electrical machine 20 may vary without regard to rotation of combustion engine 16 . in one form , clutch 18 is an actuatable multi - plate wet clutch . in other embodiments , clutch 18 may be any actuatable clutch . in still other embodiments , clutch 18 may be an overrunning clutch , such as a sprag clutch . in one form , hybrid drive system 12 is configured to start combustion engine 16 by actuating clutch 18 and causing electrical machine 20 to rotate or to continue to rotate . in some embodiments , the rate at which clutch 18 is actuated ( engaged ) may be varied in order to control the rate of acceleration of combustion engine 16 during the starting process . in other embodiments , combustion engine 16 may be started by other means , for example and without limitation , a conventional starter motor . in various embodiments , hybrid drive system 12 is configured to selectively supply mechanical power to accessory drive system 22 from a selected one or both of combustion engine 16 and electrical machine 20 . the selection of the power source as being combustion engine 16 and / or electrical machine 20 may be made , for example , by a controller ( not shown ) in response to vehicle 10 operating conditions and / or other conditions . in one form , accessory drive system 22 is coupled to both clutch 18 and electrical machine 20 . accessory drive system 22 is configured to drive at least one accessory . in one form , accessory drive system 22 is configured to drive a plurality of accessories , e . g ., one or more air compressors , hydraulic pumps , alternators or other conventional or nonconventional accessories that may be referred to as “ engine - driven accessories .” accessory drive system 22 is coupled to electrical machine 20 . hybrid drive system 12 is configured to supply mechanical power to accessory drive system 22 from combustion engine 16 by engaging clutch 18 and rotating combustion engine 16 . in addition , hybrid drive system 12 is configured to supply mechanical power to accessory drive system 22 from electrical machine 20 by disengaging clutch 18 and rotating electrical machine 20 . in some embodiments , power may also be supplied to drive accessory drive system 22 from electrical machine 20 while clutch 18 is engaged ; in such embodiments , power may be supplied to accessory drive system from both electrical machine 20 and combustion engine 16 , and / or power may be supplied from electrical machine 20 to rotate combustion engine 16 ( or to increase its rate of rotation ) while electrical machine 20 also powers accessory drive system 22 . in various embodiments , accessory drive system 22 may be bifurcated into a plurality of accessory drive trains . in other embodiments , only a single accessory drive train may be employed . in one form , accessory drive system 22 is bifurcated into an accessory drive train 28 and an accessory drive train 30 . accessory drive train 28 is coupled to electrical machine 20 . in various embodiments , one or more accessories 32 are coupled directly to and driven by accessory drive train 28 . in one form , accessory drive train 28 is a gear drive . in other embodiments , accessory drive train 28 may take other forms or include other forms , e . g ., a belt drive , a friction drive , a harmonic drive and / or one or more other drive types . in one form , accessory 32 is a gear - driven accessory . in other embodiments , accessory 32 may take other forms , and may be , for example and without limitation , a belt - driven accessory or a shaft driven accessory . in one form , accessory drive train 30 is coupled to electrical machine 20 via accessory drive train 28 and a shafting system 34 . shafting system 34 is operative to transmit power from accessory drive train 28 to accessory drive train 30 . in other embodiments , accessory drive train 30 may be coupled directly to electrical machine 20 or may be coupled to electrical machine 20 via other means . in various embodiments , one or more accessories 36 are coupled to and driven by accessory drive train 30 . in one form , accessory drive train 30 is a belt drive . in other embodiments , accessory drive train 30 may take other forms or include other forms , e . g ., a gear drive , a friction drive , a harmonic drive and / or one or more other drive types . in one form , accessory 36 is a belt - driven accessory . in other embodiments , accessory 36 may take other forms , and may be , for example and without limitation , a gear - driven accessory or a shaft driven accessory . referring to fig2 and 3 , a non - limiting example of some aspects of an embodiment of a hybrid drive system 50 is depicted . hybrid drive system 50 is similar to hybrid drive system 12 described above , and hence , the description of hybrid drive system 12 , set forth above , applies to hybrid drive system 50 . like hybrid drive system 12 , hybrid drive system 50 is configured , in various embodiments , to selectively supply mechanical power to an accessory drive system from a selected one or both of a combustion engine ( not shown ) and an electrical machine . illustrated components of hybrid drive system 50 include an electrical machine in the form of a motor / generator ( m / g ) 52 ; a clutch 54 nested within m / g 52 ; and an accessory drive system 56 . hybrid drive system 50 includes a crank spline 58 and a flex - plate 60 . crank spline 58 is configured to couple m / g 52 and clutch 54 to an engine , such as an internal combustion engine ( not shown ). flex - plate 60 is configured to couple m / g 52 to a drive train component , such as a transmission ( not shown ). accessory drive system 56 includes a gear drive 62 and a belt drive 64 . gear drive system 62 includes a m / g 52 output gear 66 , an idler gear 68 , a belt drive gear 70 and an air compressor gear 72 . gear drive 62 is operative to drive an air compressor 74 via air compressor gear 72 , and to drive a hydraulic pump 76 via air compressor 74 . belt drive 64 is coupled to gear drive 62 via a belt driveshaft 78 . illustrated components of belt drive 64 include an input pulley 80 and a drive belt 82 that are operative to drive one or more accessories . in one form , m / g 52 is coupled to the combustion engine via clutch 54 in a series arrangement configured to transmit mechanical power to the drive train in series with m / g 52 . m / g 52 is coupled to the transmission , and is operative to transmit propulsive power to the transmission . clutch 54 is coupled to both the combustion engine and m / g 52 . in one form , clutch 54 is configured to selectively engage the combustion engine with m / g 52 , and disengage the combustion engine from m / g 52 , e . g ., in response to a control signal or another actuation / de - actuation control arrangement . when clutch 54 is actuated , the combustion engine is engaged with m / g 52 so that the power output of the combustion engine may be transmitted to the transmission . when clutch 54 is de - actuated , the combustion engine is disengaged from m / g 52 , e . g ., so that the rotational speed of m / g 52 may vary without regard to rotation of the combustion engine . in one form , clutch 54 is an actuatable multi - plate wet clutch . in other embodiments , clutch 54 may be any actuatable clutch . in still other embodiments , clutch 54 may be an overrunning clutch , such as a sprag clutch . in one form , hybrid drive system 50 is configured to start the combustion engine by actuating clutch 54 and rotating m / g 52 . in some embodiments , the rate at which clutch 54 is actuated ( engaged ) may be varied in order to control the rate of acceleration of the combustion engine during the starting process . in other embodiments , the combustion engine may be started by other means , for example and without limitation , a conventional starter motor . in various embodiments , hybrid drive system 50 is configured to selectively supply mechanical power to accessory drive system 56 from a selected one or both of the combustion engine and m / g 52 . the selection of the power source as being the combustion engine 16 and / or m / g 52 may be made , for example , by a controller ( not shown ). hybrid drive system 50 is configured to supply mechanical power to accessory drive system 56 from the combustion engine by engaging clutch 54 . in addition , hybrid drive system 50 is configured to supply mechanical power to accessory drive system 56 from m / g 52 by disengaging clutch 54 and rotating m / g 52 . in some embodiments , power may also be supplied to drive accessory drive system 56 from m / g 52 while clutch 54 is engaged ; in such embodiments , power may be supplied to accessory drive system from both m / g 52 and the combustion engine , and / or power may be supplied from m / g 52 to rotate the combustion engine ( or to increase its rate of rotation ) while m / g 52 also powers accessory drive system 56 . embodiments of the present invention include a vehicle , comprising : a drive train including a transmission and a drive axle ; and hybrid vehicle drive system , including : a combustion engine ; a clutch ; an electrical machine coupled to the combustion engine via the clutch , wherein the transmission coupled to the electrical machine ; and wherein the transmission is operative to transmit power from the combustion engine and the electrical machine to the drive axle ; and an accessory drive system coupled to the electrical machine and configured to drive at least one accessory , wherein the hybrid vehicle drive system is configured to supply mechanical power to the accessory drive system from the combustion engine by engaging the clutch ; and wherein the hybrid vehicle drive system is configured to supply mechanical power to the accessory drive system from the electrical machine by disengaging the clutch . in a refinement , the accessory drive system includes means for driving a plurality of accessories . in another refinement , the accessory drive system is operative to drive a plurality of accessories ; and wherein the accessory drive system includes a first accessory drive train coupled to the electrical machine ; a second accessory drive train coupled to at least one accessory of the plurality of accessories and configured to drive the at least one accessory ; and means for transmitting power from the first accessory drive train to the second accessory drive train . in yet another refinement , the first accessory drive train is a gear drive . in still another refinement , the first accessory drive train is coupled to at least another accessory of the plurality of accessories and configured to drive the at least another accessory . in yet still another refinement , the second accessory drive train is a belt drive . in a further refinement , the means for transmitting includes a shaft coupling the second accessory drive train to the first accessory drive train and operative to supply power from the first accessory drive train to the second accessory drive train . in a yet further refinement , the accessory drive system is coupled to both the clutch and the electrical machine . in a still further refinement , the electrical machine is configured to both convert mechanical power to electrical power and to convert electrical power to mechanical power . embodiments of the present invention include a hybrid drive system for powering a drive train , comprising : an electrical machine coupled to the drive train and operative to transmit power to the drive train ; a combustion engine arranged to transmit power to the drive train in series with the electrical machine ; and an accessory drive system coupled to the electrical machine and configured to drive at least one accessory , wherein the hybrid drive system is configured to selectively supply mechanical power to the accessory drive system from a selected one or both of the electrical machine and the combustion engine . in a refinement , the hybrid drive system is configured to selectively supply mechanical power to the drive train from a selected one or both of the electrical machine and the combustion engine . in another refinement , the hybrid drive system is configured to start the combustion engine using the electrical machine . in yet another refinement , the hybrid drive system is configured to selectively engage and disengage the combustion engine from the electrical machine . in still another refinement , the hybrid drive system further comprises a clutch coupled to both the combustion engine and the electrical machine , wherein the clutch is configured to selectively engage and disengage the combustion engine from the electrical machine . in yet still another refinement , the accessory drive system is configured to drive a plurality of accessories . in a further refinement , the accessory drive system is bifurcated into a first accessory drive train and a second accessory drive train ; wherein the accessory drive system is configured to drive a first subset of the plurality of accessories with the first accessory drive train ; and wherein the accessory drive system is configured to drive a second subset of the plurality of accessories with the second accessory drive train . in a yet further refinement , the first subset includes a gear - driven accessory ; wherein the second subset includes a belt - driven accessory ; wherein the first accessory drive train includes a gear drive configured to drive the gear - driven accessory ; and wherein the second accessory drive train includes a belt drive configured to drive the belt - driven accessory . embodiments of the present invention include a hybrid drive system , comprising : an electrical machine ; a combustion engine arranged in series with the electrical machine ; an accessory drive system coupled to the electrical machine and configured to drive at least one accessory ; and means for directing mechanical power to the accessory drive system when the combustion engine is running and for directing mechanical power to the accessory drive system when the combustion engine is not running . in a refinement , the means for directing includes a clutch disposed between the combustion engine and the electrical machine . in another refinement , the clutch is configured to selectively engage and disengage the combustion engine from the electrical machine . while the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment , it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiment ( s ), but on the contrary , is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims , which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as permitted under the law . furthermore it should be understood that while the use of the word preferable , preferably , or preferred in the description above indicates that feature so described may be more desirable , it nonetheless may not be necessary and any embodiment lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope of the invention , that scope being defined by the claims that follow . in reading the claims it is intended that when words such as “ a ,” “ an ,” “ at least one ” and “ at least a portion ” are used , there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim . further , when the language “ at least a portion ” and / or “ a portion ” is used the item may include a portion and / or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary . | US-201113103549-A |
a pneumatic tire having improved snow traction and tread wear , and improved noise and handling properties , has 80 to 105 pitches and a sipe density of 1 . 0 to 1 . 1 . the tire has a substantially rounded footprint , and has a footprint shape factor of 1 . 2 to 1 . 5 . the tire has an open central and intermediate region , as compared to the shoulder region , and has lateral groove depths that vary from 50 % to 100 % of the tread depth , wherein the shallower grooves are disposed toward the central and intermediate regions of the tire . | with reference now to fig1 an illustrated tire ( 10 ) has a tread portion ( 18 ) which has two shoulder circumferential grooves ( 17 ) and two center circumferential grooves ( 19 ). circumferential grooves ( 17 , 19 ) divide the tread into five portions , two shoulder portions ( 18 a ), two intermediate portions ( 18 b ), and center portion ( 18 c ). for ease of description , the lugs in each of the portions will be defined as being delineated by the center of the circumferential grooves , so that the term “ tread portions ” ( 18 a , 18 b , 18 c ), and lugs ( 18 a , 18 b , 18 c ) can be used interchangeably in this specification . the tire ( 10 ) has a pair of substantially parallel annular beads ( 12 ) around which is wrapped carcass ply ( 14 ). the end portions of carcass ply ( 14 ) that wrap around beads ( 12 ) are called the “ ply turn - ups ” ( 14 a ). apex ( 15 ) is sandwiched between the main body of carcass ply ( 14 ) and its turn - up ( 14 a ). sidewalls ( 16 ) are disposed over carcass ply ( 14 ) in the area of the tire between beads ( 12 ) and tread ( 18 ). with reference now to fig2 an illustrated tread ( 18 ) of the invention has a non - directional pattern . by “ non - directional ” it is meant that the tire can be mounted on either side of the vehicle and the same tread pattern will be observed . to improve the snow traction specifications of a tire , the inventors conceived the idea to increase the number of pitches in the tire . although conventional tires generally have about 56 to 72 pitches , the inventors theorized that if more pitches were provided , e . g ., 80 to 105 pitches , the smaller lugs required to place this number of pitches in the circumference of a tire would increase the number of biting surfaces in the tread at the lug edges . also , it is believed that the smaller lugs reduce the severity of the impact of the lug edges on the pavement as the tire rotates , which is believed to help reduce noise . the addition of sipes ( 21 , 21 a , 21 b ) in the tread also provides additional biting surfaces to the tread , as well as increasing the tread flexibility . in the illustrated tire of the invention , the sipes are placed at a substantially 90 ° angle with respect to the equatorial plane ( ep ) of the tire . the sipes generally pass through the full length of the pitch , and substantially equally divide the pitch into two or more segments . in the larger pitches , two or more such sipes are provided . in general , the density of sipes in the tire of the invention is 1 . 0 to 1 . 3 sipes per pitch , and in the tread pattern illustrated in fig2 there are 110 sipes in 98 pitches , or 1 . 12 sipes per pitch . in addition , the added flexibility of the tread , caused by the sipes and the large number of pitches , makes it easier for the tread to wrap around anomalies in the pavement , and to make smoother tread transitions in and out of the contact patch of the tire as the tire rotates , which is believed to reduce the squirm of the tread in the footprint , which improves ride , handling , irregular wear , and overall treadwear of the tire . in the illustrated tire of fig2 pitches were used in a 5 - pitch sequence . by “ 5 - pitch sequence ”, it is meant that five different sizes of lugs were used , each size of lug representing one pitch . in addition to the increased number of pitches , the tire of the present invention was changed from the prior art production tire by providing a more open center and intermediate area , i . e . portions ( 18 b , 18 c ) in the tire . by more open , it is meant that the void area of the intermediate and central portions ( 18 b , 18 c ) are increased as compared to the void area of the comparable portion of the prior art tire , and as compared to the shoulder portion of the tire of the invention . the void area of a tire can be represented by its net - to - gross ratio . the combined net - to - gross ratio in portions ( 18 b , 18 c ) of the illustrated tire of the invention is 0 . 605 , whereas the net - to - gross ratio in the total tread area is 0 . 646 . the net to gross in the shoulder region of the tire is 0 . 75 to 0 . 8 . it is believed that beneficial properties of the invention will be observed when the net - to - gross in the center portion and intermediate portion of the tire together ( 18 b + 18 c ) is 0 . 58 to 0 . 62 , preferably 0 . 60 to 0 . 61 , and the global , or overall net - to - gross ratio of the tire is 0 . 64 to 0 . 66 . the lower net - to - gross in central portion ( 18 b , 18 c ) of the tire is achieved by providing wider lateral grooves ( 20 , 22 ) as well as wider circumferential grooves ( 17 , 19 ) than were used in the prior art tire . the circumferential grooves ( 17 , 19 ) together comprise a void area of 18 % to 24 % of the tread width . in the illustrated embodiment , circumferential grooves ( 17 , 19 ) together represent 21 % of the tread width of the tire . as compared to the prior art tire , lateral grooves ( 29 ) in the shoulder portion ( 18 a ) of the tire are narrower , providing a more solid shoulder region ( 18 a ) in the tire . it is believed that the more solid shoulder area improves the handling and grip of the tire . with reference now to fig3 lateral groove ( 29 ), on the axially inner portion of lug ( 18 a ), has chamfers ( 28 ) on the leading edge of the lateral groove , and opposed chamfers ( 28 a ) on the trailing edge of the lateral groove . these chamfers are believed to improve the noise properties of the tire . in addition , chamfers ( 30 , 30 a ) are provided on the leading and trailing edges of the lugs where the angles of the lugs create sharp corners . chamfers ( 30 , 30 a ) are believed to improve the irregular wear properties of the tire . the chamfers are also believed to help prevent loss of the corners in the mold when the tire is removed from the mold after curing . with reference now to fig4 the footprint ( 40 ) of the tire ( 10 ), when inflated to 35 psi with a 1300 lb . load , has a generally rounded shape with a footprint shape factor of 1 . 3 to 1 . 4 . the round shape of the footprint is believed to contribute to the excellent snow handling and better wet handling , as well as the other improved properties observed in the example below . the illustrated tire of fig1 and 2 has a footprint factor of about 1 . 35 . the footprint factor is defined by the ratio of the length of the footprint at its centerline ( cl ) and the length of the footprint at the shoulder , as defined by hubbell , et al . in u . s . pat . no . 5 , 733 , 393 , said patent being incorporated herein by reference . as is illustrated in the hubbell , et al patent , and by “ mechanics of pneumatic tires ”, a publication of the u . s . department of transportation , as well as other publications , the footprint of a tire is influenced by the carcass construction of the tire , the materials and the end count and cord angles of the crown reinforcement , the hardness of the tread rubber , the flexibility of the sidewalls , the length of the carcass turn - up , the length of the carcass cords , the width of the crown reinforcement , the mold shape of the tire , as well as the number of carcass plies and the angle of the carcass ply reinforcement , the load , and the size of the tire . those skilled in the art will be able to achieve the footprint factor of the invention by adjusting these parameters for particular tire constructions . the tire of the invention may be made to utilize a β pitch sequence , an rpah sequence or any other pitching that is found to be acceptable for a given road surface or purpose . in the illustrated embodiment , a pjw - 5 pitch sequence , as defined by wesolowski in u . s . pat . nos . 5 , 743 , 974 , 5 , 753 , 057 , 5 , 759 , 310 and 5 , 759 , 312 , is used . pitching , as it relates to tires , is well characterized by the prior art , as illustrated by u . s . pat . no . 4 , 474 , 223 to landers , and references cited therein , and references in which the patent is cited . with reference again to fig1 the carcass of the tire may comprise a turn - up ply ( 14 a ) and a high apex ( 15 ) to improve the stiffness of the tire sidewall . in the illustrated tire of the invention , the carcass has one polyester carcass ply ( 14 ) wrapped around beads ( 12 ), and an apex ( 15 ) that extends substantially to the midsection height of the tire . apex ( 15 ) is sandwiched between the body of carcass ply ( 14 ) and its turn - up ( 14 a ). an optional innerliner ( 27 ) is disposed over the at least one carcass ply ( 14 ) in the cavity of the tire . in the illustrated embodiment , carcass reinforcement comprises polyester cords and belt reinforcement comprises 1500 / 2 steel cords . those skilled in the art will recognize that other circumferential reinforcement , including conventional steel belts with overlays , as well as other suitable constructions , may be used in the tire construction of the invention . the tread rubber is prepared as is conventional in the art using conventional initiators and accelerators . rubber compositions of the type that can be used in the tread are illustrated in u . s . pat . no . 5 , 319 , 026 , said patent being incorporated herein by reference . the footprint is narrower than it is long , and the footprint length may be 105 % to 120 % of the footprint width . in the illustrated embodiment , the footprint length is about 115 % of the footprint width . the invention is further illustrated with reference to the following example : a size 215 / 70r15 tire , having the tread parameters and design described herein , was constructed as described in the specification , and as illustrated by the drawings , with 98 pitches . the tire , designated c3 , was compared with the best competitor tire available , which was designed for a similar purpose , as a control . results of testing are illustrated in table 1 . mileage of the tire is determined by adding the mileage of the tires at each position on a vehicle and dividing by 4 . the data indicates that the tire of the invention has a wear rating slightly lower than the control tire . the tire of the invention is much better with respect to snow handling , and snow traction , and slightly better for noise on a new tire . the tire of the invention is slightly down , as compared to the control , for wet handling and noise after wear . | US-59423700-A |
this invention pertains to a method of reconfiguring a family of the armored , tracked vehicle of the troop carrying type to enhance producibility and protection from mine blast fragments . by using the configuration and modification disclosed herein , mine blast protection , vertical obstacle crossing capability and cross country mobility are enhanced . | the invention will be understood by reading the following description of the preferred embodiment of the invention while perusing the drawing figures . fig1 shows a perspective drawing of a current production armored tracked vehicle of the troop carrying type . starting with the upper front slope plate or glacis 10 and going in a clockwise fashion , the next major feature in this figure is the lower front glacis 12 , which extends downward from the upper front glacis 10 . below that is a pair of final drive housings 14 which are attached to the lower vertical side plates 22 . bogey pads 16 are welded to the outer vehicle surface of the box beam 20 . towards the rear of the vehicle , just below the upper side vertical plate 26 is an idler pad 24 . there is another idler pad situated directly opposite on the other side of the vehicle . there is a ramp opening 32 on the rear plate 30 to allow ingress and egress of the crew . a cargo hatch opening 34 is punched through a top plate 36 to allow the passage of cargo to the interior of the vehicle . a vehicle commander &# 39 ; s cupola opening 40 and the vehicle driver &# 39 ; s opening 42 allow the commander and the driver , respectively , to navigate the terrain . an engine compartment 44 is shown without the engine , thus giving a view of the sponson 46 . when the tracked vehicle is sectioned across the upper front glacis 10 , down the sponson plates 46 and across the rear plate 30 , the resulting separated lower and upper hulls are shown in fig2 . fig3 shows a cross sectional view of the current production hull shown in fig1 taken through plane 3 — 3 . the main features in the plinth zone 48 of fig3 from top to bottom are the doubler 50 , which is welded to the in - board of the lower side plate 22 in order to afford enhanced ballistic protection to crew members . the relatively thin - walled box beam extrusions 54 cannot provide adequate ballistic protection . consequently , additional bolt - on armor is required to defeat threats from land mines . also , the bogey pads 16 are of importance to add dimensional depth to the thin - walled box beams . there is a critical weld joint 58 that extends the entire vertical length of the box beam . fig4 is an exploded view of the prior art stretched version of the hull shown in fig1 . top plate 18 is modified in length and includes side wall extensions . a lower hull 28 is stretched . new upper hull 38 is fabricated to match with top plate 18 , stretched lower hull 28 and new upper hull 38 . referring now to fig1 , 3 and 4 , the conversion process of the prior art designs includes starting with the structure in fig1 and removing all of the components to strip the vehicle to a bare aluminum hull . lower hull and upper hull are separated . the remainder of the structure was reused with a new lower hull and a new top plate . the instant invention involves removing and discarding the lower hull as in the prior art . unlike the prior art , however , the upper hull is reconfigured and modified to become part of the new vehicle rather than discarded or recycled . fig5 shows an exploded view of an improved structure of an armored tracked vehicle of the troop carrying type . top plate 60 is mostly reused by the careful positioning of where the cut 62 is made . the extant mounting provisions are preserved by the addition of side wall extension plates 64 . the current location of the commander &# 39 ; s cupola opening 66 is impinged by the bigger engine compartment necessitated by the installation of a more powerful engine . the commander &# 39 ; s cupola opening 66 is relocated rearward in the vehicle and a t - shaped extension plate 68 is used to accommodate this relocation . the upper hull is modified minimally such that no more of the original upper hull structure is sacrificed than that which is needed to conform to mating with the new lower hull . furthermore , the new lower hull of the instant invention replaces the multi - element assembly of the prior art with a single , 1 inch to 3 inches , preferably 2 inches thick metal plate , having all the features of the prior art or prior production vehicles by machining of the plate rather than the creation of an assembly by welding the various elements together to form the lower hull side plate . fig6 is a perspective drawing of all the improved structures assembled and welded together to compose the hull structure 70 . specifically , the welded bogey pads 56 of fig4 have been replaced by machined depth extenders 72 . fig7 shows a cross sectional view of the hull of the instant invention where the multi - element subassemblies in the plinth zone 74 have been replaced with a pair of thick metal side plates 90 , 92 with machined depth extenders 72 . each of the side plates 90 , 92 has a vertical height with a notch machined or otherwise formed along their inner , lower edge . the bottom plate 94 is secured to the side plates 90 , 92 so that the bottom plate 94 fits into these notches to form a mechanical lock having a shear area extending substantially the vertical height of the side plates . not shown in this view , as they are no longer needed , are the two box beam extrusions , lower side plates , personnel protection plates and the roadwheel trunnion mounting pads or “ bogey ” pads . these elements have been replaced by a single thick metal plate as the lower side plate , having machined depth extenders . consequently , the critical weld joint 58 that extends the entire length of the vehicle has been ameliorated . fig8 shows the initial position of the final drive housing in a dotted line view 76 and the new position of the final drive housing in a solid line view 80 after rotation around the input shaft . the rotation results in a changed sprocket location described by forward , upward and angular coordinates . this rotation effectuates a sprocket position that is as high off the ground as is possible with this configuration . this increase in sprocket ground clearance provides a significant increase in overall vehicle cross country mobility and vertical obstacle crossing capability . also , since the sprocket is now the forward most portion of the vehicle , it is now considered an aggressive track layout and will allow the vehicle to climb obstacles that are taller than the sprocket itself . the discussion above relates to the most significant structural elements of the improved vehicle invention . the modification specifics of the present invention , presenting a preferred technique of the modification , follows . the improved , lower hull structure replaces the current multi - element subassemblies in the lower hull that included the two box beam extrusions , lower side plates , personnel protection plates and the roadwheel trunnion mounting pads or “ bogey ” pads with a single thick metal plate on each side of the vehicle where the desired features from the previous subassemblies have been machined into the plate . this aluminum alloy plate has to be of such thickness as to meet ballistic protection requirements of the vehicle without sacrificing hull structural rigidity and afford improved resistance to the penetration of piercing fragments from land mine explosions . because desirable advantages , that is , the bogey pads &# 39 ; ability to distribute the bogey axle loads over a large area and provide sufficient hull thickness to absorb the stresses generated by the bogie axles from the bogey pads , are now machined into the aluminum plate , the bogey pads are no longer needed . consequently , as no allowance is needed for the weld attachment of bogey pads , the suspension components can be bolted closer to the bottom of the hull by a measurable distance . this lower mounting position for the suspension component allows a suspension having the same vertical travel as current production units to increase the vehicle ride height by the amount that the suspension components mount lower on the hull . the vehicle ride height is the vertical distance from the ground to any structure on the vehicle that might impinge the ground . in turn , the increased vertical ride height raised the effective height of the sponson from the ground by enough distance to allow the accommodation of an armor steel plate . this armor plate , mounted on the exterior of the sponson , and the thicker one - piece vertical side wall plate provides increased resistance to the penetration of piercing fragments from land mine blasts . the additional vehicle ride height allows for better cross country mobility due to the reduction of sprocket and hull impacts with terrain elements . most of the top plate is reused , keeping its mounting provisions intact . this is accomplished by careful location of cut 62 and augmentation by additional component 68 which effectively lengthens the top plate a significant length equivalent to the length of the side plate 64 in order to comport to the new length of the hull structure . the rotation of the final drive around the input shaft by an angular coordinate is dictated by the a desired sprocket location high enough off the ground so that a member of the suspension system such as a roadwheel , rather than the final drive , is the first to encounter an obstacle , thus enabling the vehicle to climb over such obstacles , thus enhancing vertical obstacle crossing capability and off - road cross country mobility . in summary , in a simple embodiment of the invention , the current multi - element subassemblies in the lower hull of the armored , tracked vehicle of the troop carrying type is replaced with a single thick aluminum plate as the vertical side plate and the bottom plate where the desired features from the previous subassemblies have been machined into the plates . the result is a more cost - efficient , producible design with improved vertical obstacle crossing capability , higher off - road cross country mobility compared to tracked vehicles for troop transportation over all terrain and added troop protection from the enhanced resistance to penetration of the hull by piercing fragments from land mine detonations . the foregoing description , when read in conjunction with a perusal of the drawing figures , shows how the implementation of hull configuration and modification of tracked vehicle can be and is used to meet the objects of the invention . the following claims seek to protect the inventor &# 39 ; s idea by claiming the improvements and modifications to the track vehicle in a manner that captures the spirit of the invention . minor deviations and nuances of the invention are contemplated as being covered by the following claims . | US-91827497-A |
a bidirectional ac - dc converter is presented with reduced passive component size and common mode electro - magnetic interference . the converter includes an improved input stage formed by two coupled differential inductors , two coupled common and differential inductors , one differential capacitor and two common mode capacitors . with this input structure , the volume , weight and cost of the input stage can be reduced greatly . additionally , the input current ripple and common mode electro - magnetic interference can be greatly attenuated , so lower switching frequency can be adopted to achieve higher efficiency . | example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings . fig1 depicts an example embodiment for an ac - dc converter 10 . the converter is comprised generally of an emi filter 12 , a high order input filter 14 , a converter circuit 16 and an output capacitor 18 . in an example embodiment , the load 19 is the secondary stage of an on - board charger , such as an isolated dc / dc converter . it is readily understood that any type of load can be used in this converter . the high order input filter 14 is comprised of a pair of differential inductors ( l da and l db ), a pair of common inductors ( l ca and l cb ), a differential capacitor ( c x ) and two common mode capacitors ( c ya & amp ; c yb ). a first differential inductor l da has a first terminal electrically connected to a load terminal of the ac input 11 ; whereas , a second differential inductor l db has a first terminal electrically connected to other side ( or neutral terminal ) of the ac input 11 . of note , the first and second differential inductors ( l da and l db ) are inductively coupled together and share a common core . the pair of common inductors ( l ca and l cb ) are electrically coupled in series with the pair of differential inductors ( l da and l db ). that is , the first common inductor l ca has its first terminal electrically coupled to a second terminal of the first differential inductor l da , and the second common inductor l cb has its first terminal electrically coupled to a second terminal of the second differential inductor l db . the second terminal of each common inductor is electrically coupled to the converter circuit 16 . likewise , the first and second common inductors are inductively coupled together and share a common core . the common inductors ( l ca and l cb ) operate to reduce the circulating common current in the converter in one embodiment , coupling coefficient for the pair of differential inductors ( l da and l db ) is on the order of one ; whereas , the coupling coefficient for the pair of common inductors ( l ca and l cb ) is less than one . other values for these coupling coefficients are also contemplated by this disclosure . the differential capacitor c x is electrically coupled across the ac input and functions as a differential filter . in the example embodiment , the differential capacitor has one terminal electrically coupled to a node disposed between the first differential inductor and the first common inductor while the other terminal of the differential capacitor is electrically coupled to a node disposed between the second differential inductor and the second common inductor . it is envisioned that the differential capacitor may be disposed at other locations in the converter . two common mode capacitors c ya & amp ; c yb are used to cancel electromagnetic interference . one common mode capacitor c ya is electrically coupled between ground and a node disposed between the first differential inductor and the first common inductor ; whereas , the other common mode capacitor c ya is electrically between ground and a node disposed between the second differential inductor and the second common inductor . these two capacitors c ya & amp ; c yb also attenuate the potential slew rate of pfc ground at switching . collectively , the differential inductors ( l da & amp ; l db ), the common inductors l ca & amp ; l cb and the three capacitors c x , c ya , c yb perform like a three order lcl filter . the equivalent inductance , however , is much smaller than a conventional one order filter . the inductor size , cost and weight is proportional to the inductance at the same current , so significant cost savings can be achieved with this filter arrangement . additionally , the symmetry of this filter arrangement reduces emi problems . during operation , the converter circuit 16 is configured to receive an ac input from the input filter 14 and output a dc signal . in the example embodiment , the converter circuit 16 is implemented as a full bridge inverter arrangement although other arrangements for the converter circuit also fall within the broader aspects of this disclosure . in the example embodiment , the emi filter 12 is interposed between the ac input 11 and the input filter 14 . the emi filer operates to filter electromagnetic interference . because of the effectiveness of the input filter 14 at reducing electromagnetic interference , the size and complexity of the emi filter can be reduced . in some case , the emi filter 12 have be removed from the converter 10 . fig2 depicts an alternative embodiment for a high order input filer 14 ′ without magnetic integration . the arrangement for this input filter 14 ′ is similar to the input filter 14 described above . a second pair of differential inductors l da ′ & amp ; l db ′, however , is coupled in series with the pair of common inductors l ca & amp ; l cb . that is , a first differential inductor l da ′ in the second pair of differential inductors has a first terminal electrically coupled to a second terminal of the first common inductor l ca , and a second differential inductor l db ′ in the second pair of differential inductors has a first terminal electrically coupled to a second terminal of the second common inductor l cb . the first and second differential inductors l da ′ & amp ; l db ′ are inductively coupled together and share a common core . during operation , the common current through l ca & amp ; l cb is much smaller than the differential current and thus only a small magnetic core is needed for l ca & amp ; l cb if the coupling coefficient is 1 . the second pair of differential inductors ( l da ′ & amp ; l db ′) is introduced to take place of the leakage inductance of l ca & amp ; l cb . although an additional component is introduced in this arrangement , the cost , size and weight is almost the same the input filter 14 shown in fig1 . moreover , the design and manufacture process of the input filter 14 ′ can be simplified . fig3 depicts the differential model for the ac - dc converter 10 . l d1 , l d2 and c d are the equivalent parameters of this model . the derivation of the model is given in the appendix . this model is used in the control algorithm described below . fig4 depicts the common model of the ac - dc converter 10 . l c and c c are the equivalent parameters of this model . the derivation for this model is also given in the appendix . fig5 illustrates an example unipolar pwm pattern of driving signals and resulting outputs which may be used in the ac - dc converter 10 . in particular , the driving signals for the switches in the full bridge inverter . in this example , the switching period is divided into two half period : first half t 1 and second half t 2 . in real time control , there is always one control period delay . that is , in t 1 , the duty ratio is calculated for the next t 2 and in t 2 , the duty ratio is calculated for next t 1 . this pwm pattern ensures that u a − u b = d · u dc , u a + u b = u dc in every one half period . thus , the control period is half of the switching period . it is also noted that the common voltage output for point a and b is constant , thereby ensuring the stability of the common model shown in fig4 . not only the output voltage u ab frequency is doubled to the switching frequency , also the control frequency is doubled , which provides superior performance for the converter 10 . at each half period , the switching pattern keeps the average value constant to maintain a stable common mode voltage . fig6 depicts an example current loop control diagram for the converter 10 . the control of current loop is aimed at making the input current i ac to the converter track a given reference waveform i ref . grid side input voltage u ac , input current i ac and dc side output voltage u dc are measured for control purposes . to get fast response and robust performance , state feedback control method is adopted in the system . the detail mathematic model and derivation is given in appendix later . in fig6 , a model based state feedback control method based on discrete model is used to control the converter circuit . the output of the controller is duty , which is the duty signal u ab shown in fig5 . in order to get a state estimation without additional hardware sensors , a kalman state estimator is adopted in the control loop . with the advanced control method , the proposed circuit can do not only the dc voltage regulation , reactive power compensation functions , but can also be an active harmonic current filter , which could improve the power grid quality . other types of control methods are also contemplated within the broader aspects of this disclosure . fig7 shows the input current without the proposed control method when there is a 1 vpp voltage source at the input filter resonant frequency . because there is almost no damping for higher efficiency , a small voltage source at the resonant frequency will cause oscillation . to suppress the oscillation , a damping resistor is commonly placed in series with the capacitor , which brings extra loss . also , because the weak stability of the system , it is hard to design a high gain compensator to realize fast response . fig8 shows the input current with the proposed control method when there is a 1 vpp voltage source at the input filter resonant frequency . even without a damping resistor , there is no oscillation and the efficiency is improved . also , it is able to realize a high performance current tracking controller for the converter . fig9 shows the voltage between output ground and ac neutral line in a conventional converter with lcl input filter . the voltage swings a lot with an amplitude of the dc side voltage at a very short time , this means the potential slew rate of the converter is high . the stray capacitance between pfc ground and earth could bring sever emi problems . in contrast , the voltage between the output ground and ac neutral line in the proposed converter 10 is shown in fig1 . the voltage is very smooth , this means the potential slew rate of pfc device is very low . the common mode emi is positive proportion to the potential slew rate . compared with the results in fig9 , converter 10 is much better in common mode emi performance . fig1 shows the load step response for the proposed ac - dc converter 10 . 6 . 4 kw load is applied at the output terminal . the system is stable and input current is in - phase with the input voltage . fig1 shows the source step response of the proposed ac - dc converter . again , 6 . 4 kw step power source is applied at the output terminal . the system is stable and ac side current is in 180 ° phase with the input voltage . fig1 illustrates the reactive power compensation results for the converter 10 . the reference current can be set to any waveform using the control method shown in fig6 . accordingly , the proposed converter 10 can perform the reactive power compensation function as well . in fig1 , the reference current is set 90 ° ahead of the input voltage , the control method shows very good tracking ability and the converter perform as a reactive power compensator well . fig1 shows the harmonic current injection results for the converter 10 . the inductor of proposed input filter stage is small so fast current slew rate can be expected . this gives the converter 10 the capability of injecting high frequency current into power grid as a harmonic active filter . in fig1 , a 25 - order harmonic current ( 1250 hz ) is injected into the power grid as an example . one advantage of the present disclosure as compared to prior art is that each of the following features can be achieved concurrently : compact and low cost of input filter size ; low input current ripple achieved at lower efficiency , so higher efficiency can be achieved ; low common mode emi ; and fast and robust current tracking . the ac - dc converter can perform as a bi - directional pfc converter , as well as a reactive power compensator and active harmonic filter . the foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description . it is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure . individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment , but , where applicable , are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment , even if not specifically shown or described . the same may also be varied in many ways . such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure , and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure . | US-201414251080-A |
a drill press mounting apparatus for use on a balancing machine having a longitudinally extending machine bed is disclosed . the drill press assembly is comprised of a first longitudinally extending guide path defined adjacent the machine bed and a second longitudinally extending guide path defined adjacent the machine bed parallel to the first guide path . a drill press is mounted for movement along the first and second guide paths and a friction stop is operatively connected between the drill press and the machine bed . the friction stop retards movement of the drill press with respect to the machine bed upon commencement of drill press operations . | the assembly of novel features incorporated in the presently preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in fig1 . an examination of fig1 will develop a general understanding of the functions and advantages of the invention . referring to fig1 a concrete machine bed 1 supports two stanchions 3 which are free to slide on rails 2 to accommodate various length workpieces 5 . journals 13 of the workpiece 5 rest in &# 34 ; v &# 34 ; block bearing assemblies 4 attached by springs to the stanchions 3 . workpiece 5 is caused to rotate by motor - driven belt 6 . vibration from rotating workpiece 5 is transmitted to displacement transducers 11 ( see fig2 ) hidden from view by protective covers . angle indicator 9 mounted to rails 2 is positioned thereon to allow attachment of magnet 10 to end of workpiece 5 . magnet 10 communicates via shaft 29 workpiece 5 rotation information and axial forces to angle indicator 9 . drill press 7 mounted on slide 8 transverse workpiece 5 axis on rails 20 and 23 secured to concrete machine bed 1 . vibration and rotational information from transducers 11 and angle indicator 9 respectively is transmitted electrically to measuring instrument 12 . instrument 12 displays balance correction amount and location to the machine operator . correction location is referenced with workpiece 5 by angle indicator 9 . referring to fig2 bearing assembly 4 incorporates two bearing blocks 12 free to rotate about shafts 19 . the bearing surface in contact with the workpiece journal is generally parallel with the axis of shafts 19 . fig3 and 4 show workpiece journal 13 axis free to tilt on blocks 12 through vertical angle a and horizontal angle b while maintaining full surface contact between journal 13 and blocks 12 . if the angle of shafts 19 were both either horizontal or vertical , only vertical or horizontal angles respectively of journal 13 axis would be possible without losing full bearing contact . by orienting shaft 19 axis relative to one another at an angle between 0 and 180 degrees , preferably 90 - 120 degrees , both horizontal and vertical angle components become available permitting journal 13 axis misalignment in any direction without losing full bearing contact . section 5 -- 5 of bearing block 12 of fig2 is shown in fig5 . block 12 is preferably fabricated of low friction bearing material such as nylon , teflon or oil impregnated bronze . fig2 clearly shows how &# 34 ; v &# 34 ; block assembly 4 accommodates journal 13 misalignment in the general rotational plane of blocks 12 while remaining fixed in the journal 13 rotational plane . vibration forces are thereby transmitted directly by block 12 through shaft 19 to bearing assembly mount 4 . fig2 also shows overall mounting of bearing assembly 4 through springs 17 to stationary stanchions 3 ( fig1 ). fig6 shows in detail section 6 -- 6 of fig2 wherein spring 17 is clamped by block 18 to stanchion 3 . length and width of gap 16 constitutes the free bending range of spring 17 . vibration transducer 11 mounted to stanchion 3 senses vibration on pin 14 in contact with adjusting screw 15 mounted to bearing assembly 4 . gap 16 between springs 17 and the stanchion provide a travel stop for bearing assembly 4 to prevent damage to transducer 11 . pin 14 is spring loaded by transducer 11 in order to maintain continuous contact with screw 15 . screw 15 positions pin 14 to its approximate travel midpoint allowing displacement to either side thereof as it arises from vibration of bearing assembly 4 . fig7 shows drill press slide 8 mounted on rails 20 and 23 . conventional low - friction linear bearings on rail 20 supports most of the drill press weight and provides rigidity in two degrees of freedom . a low friction bearing 22 such as a cam follower and friction block 21 in close proximity or contact with rail 23 provide rotational rigidity about the axis of rail 20 . the drill press is located on slide 8 such that the total assembly mass center is to the left side of rail 20 centerline . consequently the right side of slide 8 is biased upward against rail 23 through bearing 22 . in this mode the drill press freely moves along rails 20 and 23 on low - friction bearings . during a drilling operation torque is generated about the axis of rail 20 forcing friction block 21 down on rail 23 . the friction force so developed restrains movement of the slide along the rails only while drilling is in progress . fig8 shows section 8 -- 8 with bearing 22 in contact with rail 23 , friction block separated therefrom by a small gap , in the non - drilling mode . fig9 shows angle indicator assembly 9 . magnet 10 attached magnetically to end of journal 13 transmits rotation and axial thrust of the workpiece through universal joints 27 and shaft 29 to shaft 26 . shaft 26 is restrained in all degrees of freedom except rotational by bearing housing 25 mounted by a support post to rails 2 on machine bed 1 . universal joints 27 permit radial and angular freedom of magnet 10 while remaining axially fixed . thus magnet 10 is free to follow vibration motion , mechanical irregularities and misalignment of the workpiece without introducing adverse effects on unbalance measurement . axial rigidity of magnet 10 maintains workpiece position in &# 34 ; v &# 34 ; blocks 4 . circular disc 28 shown in fig9 is represented in greater detail in fig1 and 11 . the front face of disc 28 has circumferential graduation lines and numbers 30 , shown 0 - 59 numbered in increments of five . a portion of disc 28 is easily visible to the machine operator by which he locates workpiece 5 unbalance corresponding to a number on the disc . the disc number 30 indicating location of unbalance is displayed by instrument 12 . the rear side of disc 28 , shown in fig1 , contains concentric bands of segments 31 and 32 . the segments may be differentiated from background as slots , protrusions , holes , contrasting colors , or by other means suitable for generating rotary encoder information . while two bands are shown , more or less may be required in particular cases . while not necessarily limited thereto , the present embodiment utilizes two bands of white segments on a black background . two photo - type sensors 33 , responsive to the contrasting reflectivity between segments and background , generate electrical pulses that are used by instrument 12 in analyzing amount and location of unbalance . typically , the outer band of segments 31 provides rotational speed information for electronically tuning a filter and / or operating a tachometer . the inner band , shown with a single segment 32 , provides positional information in determining unbalance location . the preferred embodiment , as described above , is intended to be ememplary in nature and by no means limits the scope of modifications possible and apparent to those skilled in the art without materially departing from the intent and spirit of this invention . | US-52114183-A |
an improved flexible contact lens is provided having hydrophilic and lipophobic properties which allow extended duration of wear by eliminating or greatly reducing the risk of rupture of the natural tear film produced by the cornea . these properties are achieved by crosslinking a selected water soluble polymer which has been grafted onto a pre - formed substrate , for example crosslinking polyvinyl pyrrolidone which has been previously grafted onto a silicone substrate . the grafting and the crosslinking are accomplished in separate stages . | broadly , in the practice of this invention , a molded silicone substrate is irradiated and subjected to grafting with n - vinylpyrrolidone monomer , to form a graft copolymer , the graft copolymer is then irradiated to crosslink the grafted material . this crosslinked material then has the desirable wettability characteristics of this invention . for example , one method of preparing the finished lens generally involves preparing a mixture of the silicone prepolymer , degassing the mixture to remove entrained gas , introducing the degassed prepolymer into a mold , polymerizing or curing the prepolymer to form the molded substrate , irradiating the substrate in the presence of an oxidizing medium , contacting the irradiated substrate with a grafting medium containing n - vinylpyrrolidone monomer to form the graft copolymer and irradiating the graft copolymer to crosslink the grafted copolymer . this second stage irradiation , promoting crosslinking of the grafted n - vinylpyrrolidone units produces a molded lens having the hydrophilic and lipophobic properties as previously described . before use , the lens thus formed , is immersed in a solution approximating lachrymal fluid such as physiological serum . in general , the silicone substrates are obtained by crosslinking , with platinum containing catalysts , adequate organopolysiloxane compositions which are substituted by a major amount of hydrocarbonate groups having no aliphatic unsaturation and by a minor portion of groups with an aliphatic unsaturation , in addition some of these organopolysiloxanes contain hydrogen atoms linked to the silica atoms . 1 . 100 parts of a diorganopolysiloxane of general formula ## equ1 ## in which the symbols r and r &# 39 ;, similar or different , represent alkyl groups having 1 to 4 carbon atoms such as methyl , ethyl , propyl , butyl , aryl groups having 6 to 8 carbon atoms such as phenyl , tolyl , xylyl , at least 50 % of the r &# 39 ; symbol represent methyl groups , the symbol n represents any number having a value such that the diorganopolysiloxane viscosity ranges from 300 cpo at 25 ° c to 800 , 000 cpo at 25 ° c , preferably from 500 cpo at 25 ° c to 200 , 000 cpo at 25 ° c . 2 . 5 to 50 parts of a copolymer constituted of units of formulae in which the symbols r &# 34 ;, similar or different , represent alkyl groups having 1 to 3 carbon atoms such as methyl , ethyl , propyl , the symbol a represents 1 or 2 and the ratio of the number of ( r &# 34 ;) 3 sio 0 . 5 and units to the number of sio 2 units ranges from 0 . 5 / 1 to 1 . 2 / 1 , said copolymer contains from to 1 . 5 to 3 . 5 % by weight of vinyl groups . in an amount sufficient to provide from 0 . 8 to 1 . 9 sih bond for 1 sich = ch 2 bond of polymers ( 1 ) and ( 2 ), in this formula symbol r &# 39 ; has the above mentioned meaning , symbol b represents any number from 0 . 8 to 2 , symbol c represents any number from 0 . 3 to 1 , 1 mol of the hydrogenopolysiloxane containing at least 2 sih bonds . details on the preparation of such compositions appear more precisely in u . s . pat . nos . 3 , 436 , 366 and 3 , 284 , 406 . as an illustration of compositions particularly suitable for the preparation of the contact lenses of the invention can be cited those containing : in which symbol n &# 39 ; has a value such that the oil viscosity ranges from 500 to 5 , 000 centipoises at 25 % c . the ratio of the number of ( ch 3 ) 3 sio 0 . 5 and ( h 3 ) ch 2 = chsio units to the number of sio 2 units ranging from 0 . 6 / 1 to 1 / 1 . ( ch 3 ) b &# 39 ; h c &# 39 ; sio 4 - b &# 39 ; c &# 39 ; in an amount sufficient to have 0 . 9 to 1 . 7 sih bond for one sich = ch 2 bond of the 2 above mentioned polymers , in this formula symbol b &# 39 ; represents any number from 0 . 9 to 1 . 6 and symbol c &# 39 ; any number from 0 . 45 to 0 . 85 0 . 0009 to 0 . 005 parts of platinum in a soluble form in a solvent such as an alkanol having from 1 to 15 carbon atoms . the mixtures are advantageously placed under a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure at a temperature between 15 ° c and 60 ° c in order to eliminate the gases and the products of low molecular weight which they contain . they are subsequently placed in appropriate molds and the assembly is heated to approximately 80 °- 160 ° c during 1 to 5 hours . during this heating period , the mixtures are cured to silicone elastomers . the substrate is removed from the mold and irradiated with ionizing radiation . the type of ionizing irradiation is not critical , the only requirement being that the silicone substrate must not be degraded to the point where optical properties are deleteriously affected . gamma rays from 60 co may be used as well as x - rays and u . v . irradiation or irradiation from electron bombardment , so long as the radiation is of a type which will cause ionization of portions of the substrate . this irradiation takes place in the presence of an oxidizing medium such as pure oxygen , air or an oxidizing solution , preferably in the presence of atmospheric oxygen . the radiation dosage is preferably from about 0 . 1 to 20 m rads . the total dosage may be achieved by varying the time the intensity of exposure , subject of course to the retention of optical properties in the substrate . lenses so irradiated ready for grafting can be conserved in this irradiated state at 0 ° c for long periods of time . dissolved oxygen is then removed from the irradiated substrate and from the grafting medium , for example , according to the procedure described in the u . s . pat . no . 3 , 700 , 573 previously cited . the substrate is then contacted with the grafting medium having a major proportion of n - vinyl pyrrolidone monomer , either pure monomer or a solution thereof . the substrate may be heated before such contact if desired up to about 250 ° c , however the grafting reaction will proceed at ambient temperatures . if the temperature is to be elevated it is preferably raised to about 120 ° to 200 ° c . under these conditions the grafting reaction is initiated . the contact time between the substrate and the monomer may be varied from about 15 minutes to 2 hours . the grafted substrate is then washed and oven dried . the essential component of the grafting medium is n - vinylpyrrolidone monomer , however it is found that a small proportion of polyvinylpyrrolidone up to about 5 % by weight and / or a small amount , preferably when used , up to about 5 % by weight of an alkylsilicone / polyoxyalkylene block copolymer surfactant chosen from the copolymers described in pages 373 to 376 of w . noll &# 39 ; s &# 34 ; chemistry and technology of silicones &# 34 ; may advantageously be added . as an indication the branched or linear copolymers of the following formula would be suitable : ## equ2 ## the small amounts of polymerized polyvinylpyrrolidone and / or surfactant , when used , prevent craters and other geometric deformations and also facilitate wetting of the substrate , pre - irradiated silicone , by the grafting medium . the use of these additives , while not essential , is preferred . the n - vinylpyrrolidone monomer and polyvinylpyrrolidone obtained therefrom employed in this invention are prepared by conventional methods well known to the art . the n - vinylpyrrolidone monomer is distilled , for example , through a vigreux column , to insure purity and then collected . the polyvinylpyrrolidone , when used as an additive is an unfractionated product obtained by polymerisation of the above monomer in 40 % aqueous solution . the k value of the polymer is 30 . the molecular weight about 40 , 000 . a particularly convenient polymer is one sold under the name plasdone , a registered trademark of gaf . the monomer is used in the grafting medium either in the pure undiluted state or in aqueous solutions ranging from about 50 % by weight monomer up until pure monomer is attained . the grafted substrate , depending on process variables of temperature , time , irradiation and concentration of grafting medium , may vary from a homogeneous graft copolymer to a surface graft . for example , a high radiation dose from about 0 . 1 m rads to 20 m rads and then grafting in pure monomer , with or without the previously described additives , for about 0 . 1 to 8 hours , at a temperature of about 120 ° to 200 ° c produces a homogeneous copolymer throughout the substrate . the rate of grafting can be determined by a simple weighing . the preferred composition is about 75 - 99 % silicone polymer and about 1 - 25 % polyvinyl pyrrolidone graft . irradiation of the substrate in the presence of an oxidizing medium is thought to promote peroxide site formation , in the silicone substrate , these sites when contacted with the n - vinylpyrrolidone monomer react to form the graft copolymer . the n - vinylpyrrolidone monomer , because of the vinyl groups , reacts principally with the peroxide sites on the silicone . if there is any reaction of the monomer with itself only linear or branched polymers will be produced , but not crosslinked polymers . the crosslinking step is performed on the grafted substrate . a crosslinking agent may be used , as for example 1 to 5 percent of hydroxyethylmethacrylate or diethylene glycol dimethacrylate . but these agents are not as satisfactory as the use of a second irradiation step . the second irradiation may use the same radiation source previously described subject to the same limitations except this irradiation step takes place advantageously in an inert atmosphere . for example an ultraviolet light generator producing an intensity of 30 , 000 w / cm 2 and having a wave - length of 2 , 537 angstrom units is suitable as well as other radiation sources . if the above generator is used an irradiation time of from about 4 to 16 hours is found suitable to produce the desired crosslinking . it is to be noted that an essential feature of this invention is the graft copolymer crosslinking step and the crosslinked graft copolymer thus produced . a number of radiation sources as previously described employing different intensities for different periods of time are used to produce products having varied lipophobic characteristics . the total radiation dose is determinative of the extent of crosslinking : as above mentioned , this dose is preferably from 0 . 1 to 20 m rads . this crosslinking is thought to take place principally between the polyvinyl pyrrolidone chains grafted onto the silicone . as crosslinking is increased the normally highly hydrophilic graft copolymer loses slightly its hydrophilicity and becomes more lipophobic , thus varying these properties in the pre - formed structure . as to the index of refraction of the crosslinked graft copolymer , it varies with the molecular proportion of both silicone and polyvinylpyrrolidone present in the copolymer . generally , the silicone has a refractive index of 1 . 42 , the polyvinylpyrrolidone has an index of 1 . 51 . the final lens has an index which depends on the proportions of each . usually , in use the lens is allowed to equilibrate in a solution approximating tear fluid thus absorbing some water . the refractive index of the water is 1 . 33 and contributes proportionately to the total refractive index of the lens . by proper design the lens can be prepared to have a refractive index of about 1 . 39 to 1 . 45 . the lower of these indices , is particularly advantageous to obtaining lenses which will correct astigmatism . a silicone lens filled with silica , for example , has a higher refractive index and is thus not as effective for correction of astigmatism . the dry grafted copolymers are more or less cloudy . the transparency can be restored by immersion in water . an important property of a contact lens is permeability to oxygen and carbon dioxide , both of which gases must have good access and egress to and from the cornea . it is found that the novel crosslinked grafted polymer of this invention retains a substantial part of the excellent permeability usually present in silicones . this permeability is the gas transmission expressed in terms of cubic centimeters of gas transmitted through 100 square inches of a 1 mil thick film of the material with one atmosphere of pressure differential across the film , measured at 77 ° f for 24 hours . this permeability may be reported as a permselectivity coefficient which is the gas transmission of carbon dioxide divided by that of oxygen . representative permeabilities are reported in table i . table i______________________________________comparative permeabilities and permselectivity permeabilities permselec - tivity o . sub . 2 co . sub . 2______________________________________rtv silicone alone 157 000 650 000 4 . 5dry copolymer at 10 % 90 000 417 000 4 . 6hydrated copolymer at 10 % 46 700 317 000 6 . 8dry copolymer at 16 % 89 500 400 000 4 . 5hydrated copolymer at 16 % 60 000 392 000 6 . 5______________________________________ this permselectivity which facilitates the gas transmission on the cornea and , particularly , ensures its good oxygenation , varies relatively little for the rates of grafting used and is important for the values of about 10 which are generally preferred in the embodiments of the invention . the following examples will more fully illustrate the embodiments of this invention . all parts and proportions referred to herein and in the appended claims are by weight unlss otherwise indicated . 78 g of a dimethylpolysiloxanic oil blocked at each end by an unit of formula ( ch 3 ) 2 ch 2 = chsio 0 . 5 , of viscosity 1 , 000 cpo at 25 ° c . 25 g of a copolymer constituted of units of formula ( ch 3 ) 3 sio 0 . 5 , ( ch 3 ) ch 2 = chsio and sio 2 , respectively distributed in the numerical ratio 2 . 3 / 0 . 4 / 3 . 5 . 5 . 5 g of a copolymer constituted of units of formula ( ch 3 ) 2 hsio 0 . 5 and sio 2 , respectively distributed in the numerical ratio 2 / 1 . a mold of generally concavo - convex shape having a cavity conforming generally to the shape of the cornea is then filled with the degassed composition , pressure is applied and the temperature is raised to 120 ° c for 3 hours to cure the silicone . the silicone substrate weighing 36 mg . is then removed and subjected , in the presence of air , to 3 m rads radiation at an intensity of 0 . 2 m rads / hour . the oxygen is then removed from the irradiated substrate by bubbling of nitrogen through the grafting monomer , consisting of n - vinyl pyrrolidone and 5 % of plasdone k . the temperature of the system is raised to 130 ° c for 15 minutes . the graft copolymer substrate is removed and found after washing and drying to weight 39 . 2 mg thus gaining 3 . 2 mg of polyvinylpyrrolidone . the grafted substrate is then swollen again in water and exposed to a u . v . generator furnishing 30 , 000 w / cm 2 at a wavelength of 2537 angstrom units , for 2 hours , and stored wet for use . the substrate is prepared in exactly the same way as in example 1 ; the total silicone weight is 39 . 9 mg grafting is accomplished as in example 1 and on reweighing the grafted substrate weighs 43 . 5 mg thus gaining 3 . 6 mg of polyvinylpyrrolidone . the crosslinking step is carried out exactly as in example 1 except the duration of irradiation is 4 hours . the crosslinked graft copolymer is stored wet for use . the same procedure as carried out in example 1 is performed except the weight of the silicone substrate is 40 mg and the weight of the grafted substrate is 43 . 5 mg . the second irradiation is exactly the same as in examples 1 and 2 except that the duration of irradiation is of 8 hours . the sample is then stored wet for use . same procedure as in example 1 , but with 39 . 7 mg of silicone , a total weight after grafting of 43 . 3 mg and a duration of second irradiation of 16 hours . same procedure as in example 1 , but with 36 . 9 mg of silicone , 40 . 1 mg of grafted substrate and with no second irradiation . the grafted substrates are tested for water pick up . the results of these tests are reported in table ii . table ii__________________________________________________________________________results of water pick up testsexamplesilicone pvp total rate of water rate of water time of secondresin ( mg ) mg . weight grafting mg . pickup pvp irradiation__________________________________________________________________________1 36 3 . 2 39 . 2 8 . 9 % 3 . 3 8 . 4 % 1 . 03 2 h2 39 . 9 3 . 6 43 . 5 9 . 05 % 3 . 6 8 . 3 % 1 . 00 4 h3 40 3 . 5 43 . 5 8 . 75 % 3 . 1 7 . 15 % 0 . 89 8 h4 39 . 7 3 . 6 43 . 3 9 . 1 % 3 . 1 7 . 15 % 0 . 86 16 h5 36 . 9 3 . 2 40 . 1 8 . 7 % 3 . 4 8 . 5 % 1 . 06 0 h__________________________________________________________________________ thus it can be seen that example 5 without the crosslinking step is much more absorptive of water than the crosslinked samples of example 1 through 4 inclusive . it can also be seen that from 8 to 16 hours of radiation there is very little variation in the water pickup / pvp weight ratio . a time of irradiation of 8 hours is thus advantageously preferred . this invention has been described with respect to certain preferred embodiments and various modifications and variations thereof will occur in the light of this invention , to persons skilled in the art , and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application and the scope of the appended claims . | US-51358574-A |
a method for mining association rules in a database that is divided into multiple partitions associated with respective computing nodes . the method includes transmitting messages among the nodes with respect to local support of an itemset in the respective partitions of the database . responsive to the messages transmitted by a subset of the nodes , the itemset is determined to be globally frequent in the database before the nodes outside the subset have transmitted the messages with respect to the local support of the itemset in their respective partitions . an association rule is computed with respect to the itemset , responsive to having determined the itemset to be globally frequent . | let i ={ i 1 , i 2 , . . . , i m } be the set of items in the database to be mined . a transaction t is a subset of i . let db be a list of d such transactions . let { overscore ( db )}={ db 1 , db 2 , . . . , db n } be a partition of db into n partitions with sizes { overscore ( d )}={ d 1 , d 2 , . . . , d n } respectively . an itemset is some x ⊂ i . since identical itemset exist for all nodes participating in all the methods described herein , we will denote them as x 1 , x 2 , . . . , x n . for any x i and db ⊂ db , let support ( x i , db ) be the number of transactions in db that contain all the items of x i . we call x i j = support ( x i , db j ) the local support of x i in partition j , and support ( x i , db ) its global support . for some user - defined support threshold 0 ≦ minsup ≦ 1 , we say that x i is frequent iff support ( x i , db )≧ minsup · d and infrequent iff support ( x i , db )& lt ; minsup · d . we say x i is locally frequent in the j partition iff support ( x i , db j )≦ minsup · d j . let x a , x p be two frequent itemsets such that x p ⊂ x a , and let 0 & lt ; minconf ≦ 1 be some user - defined confidence threshold . we say the rule r ap : x p x a \ x p is confident iff support ( x a , db )≦ minconf · support ( x p , db ). the d - arm problem addressed by preferred embodiments of the present invention is to distributively find all the rules of the form x y , while minimizing the amount of communications , as well as the number of times support (·, db 1 ) is evaluated . the messages the nodes send to one another are pairs ( i , x i j ), wherein i is an itemset ( or rule ) number , and x i j = support ( x i , db j ). we will assume that j , the origin of the message , can be inferred from information contained in the message , such as a message header . for each node p and itemset x i , let g p ( x i ) be the group of all x i j such that ( i , x i j ) was received by p . we will assume g p ( x i ) is equal for all p and refer to it as g ( x i ). { overscore ( d )} is either known to all nodes in advance or can be exchanged in the first n messages . fig1 is a schematic , pictorial illustration of a system 20 for distributed association rule mining ( d - arm ), in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention . system 20 comprises a plurality of computing nodes 22 , connected by a communication network 24 , typically a local area network ( lan ) or system area network ( san ), as are known in the art . for simplicity of illustration , four nodes are shown , labeled a , b , c and d , although typically , a much larger number of nodes may be involved in d - arm operations . each node typically comprises a central processing unit ( cpu ), programmed in software to carry out the functions described hereinbelow . this software may be downloaded to nodes 22 in electronic form , over network 24 , for example , or it may alternatively be supplied to the nodes on tangible media , such as cd - rom . each of the nodes has a local storage memory 26 , such as a disk , which contains a asynchronously , at each of nodes 22 that is participating in mining the database . as described below , the data contained in the messages , received in the process of fig2 b , serves as input to the computations performed in the process of fig2 a . at the same time , the state of the process of fig2 a determines how the incoming messages are treated in the process of fig2 b . the basic idea behind the ddm method is to verify that an itemset is globally frequent before collecting its support counts from all nodes . this approach differs from fdm in that in ddm , the fact that an itemset is locally frequent in one partition is not considered sufficient evidence to trigger the collection of all the support counts of the itemset from all the nodes . instead , the nodes perform a sort of negotiation , at the end of which they have decided which candidate itemsets are globally frequent and which are not . the support counts of the frequent itemsets are then collected optimally , with no communication wasted on locally - frequent itemsets that are , nonetheless , globally infrequent . nodes 22 negotiate by exchanging messages containing local support counts for various itemsets . at any given point in the process of fig2 a , a common hypothesis h is shared by all nodes concerning the global support of each candidate itemset . as the nodes receive local support counts for an itemset , they adjust this hypothesis until it correctly predicts whether the itemset is frequent or infrequent . in addition , every node computes another private hypothesis p , based on the support counts already expressed by other nodes and the node &# 39 ; s own local support count for each candidate itemset . for at least one node partition of a database that is to be mined for association rules . in order to carry out d - arm operations , nodes 22 transmit and receive broadcast messages over network 24 . any suitable communication protocol may be used for this purpose , for example , an ethernet ( ieee 802 . 3 ) or fast ethernet protocol , as are known in the art . generally , these protocols generate frames of fixed size , typically 96 bytes for fast ethernet , or 1500 bytes for ethernet , and any messages of greater length are broken up into multiple frames . as the number of nodes 22 in system 20 , the communication burden of d - arm grows at least linearly , and the communication bandwidth typically becomes the chief bottleneck . in order to make the most efficient possible use of the available communication resources , nodes 22 preferably stack short broadcast messages together to fill up a frame . such stacking is not essential to the operation of the present invention , however . fig2 a and 2b are flow charts that schematically illustrate a method for d - arm , referred to herein as the distributed decision miner ( ddm ) method , in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention . fig2 a illustrates a process by which each of nodes 22 generates broadcast messages to the other nodes , decides which candidate itemsets are globally frequent in the overall database contained in memories 26 , computes the support for the candidate itemsets and , on the basis of the support , finds association rules . fig2 b shows how nodes 22 treat broadcast messages that they receive from the other nodes in the course of the process of fig2 a . the processes of fig2 a and 2b go on in parallel , that has not yet expressed its local support count , and given any subset of the support counts for an itemset , the local hypothesis must correctly predict whether the itemset is frequent or infrequent . the defining assumptions regarding h and p are not required to hold for every node . rather , it is enough that the assumption regarding h will hold eventually , and that the assumption regarding p holds for one node that has not yet expressed its support count . the process of fig2 a uses the approach of the apriori method described above to identify candidate itemsets of incrementally increasing size k . initially , k is set to one , and c 1 is set to be the set of all items i in i , at an initialization step 30 . the set of nodes that have passed at this stage . passed ( as described further hereinbelow ), is set to be the empty set . the nodes then begin to broadcast messages of the form ( i , x i j ) on network 24 , until they determine that all the nodes have passed , at a synchronization step 32 . in order to decide which messages to send , each node calculates the set of candidate itemsets x i εc k for which it has not yet expressed its local support count , at a candidate calculation step 34 . for each such candidate , each node calculates the global hypothesis h and the local hypothesis p . if h and p at some node disagree on whether a candidate itemset is frequent or infrequent , then the node broadcasts its support count for that candidate , at a support broadcast step 23 . the nodes broadcast their support counts at a certain rate , limited by the bandwidth of network 24 , each message containing the support of one or several candidates chosen by the node . no synchronization is required by these messages . every time a node receives a message , it updates h and p for the candidate itemsets referred to in that message , as shown below in fig2 b . if , for some node , h and p agree for every candidate itemset , that node has nothing to express and it passes on its turn , at a passing step 38 . the node may later resume sending messages if arriving messages clause disagreement between h and p for some as - yet unexpressed candidate itemset . if a full round of passes was received from all parties , then h and p of all nodes agree on every candidate itemsets , triggering the condition of stop 32 . at this point , all nodes 22 must have the same set of candidate itemsets , l k , at a candidate set determination step 40 : l k is simply the set of itemsets x i εc k for which h now exceeds the predetermined minimum support level minsup . this determination follows from the definition of p , based on which there are two possibilities for each candidate itemset : either there is one node whose p correctly predicts the itemset size , or all the local support counts have been collected . in the former case , the h and p of the node whose p correctly predicts the itemset size must agree ; and since all nodes compute the same h , that h must be correct for all nodes . in the latter case , h must be correct by definition . once l k is known , all nodes 22 broadcast their support counts for any itemsets x i in l k that they did not broadcast previously , in a support collection step 42 . this information is collected by the nodes for subsequent use . the apriori procedure described above is then used to generate the collection of possible itemsets c k + 1 for the next iteration of the procedure , at an itemset generation step 44 . in this step , candidate k + 1 - size itemsets are generated from the set of frequent k - size itemsets l k . an itemset is included in c k + 1 if and only if all its k - size subsets are in l k . the next iteration then commences at step 32 , until c k + 1 is found to be empty , at a termination step 46 . at this point , the apriori iteration ends , and all node have the same set of itemsets , l ={ l 2 , l 2 , . . . , l k }, and the same support counts for all the itemsets . the nodes use this information to derive association rule , at a rule generation step 48 , using any suitable procedure known in the art . fig2 b shows how a given node 22 treats broadcast messages m that it receives from other nodes p , at a message reception step 50 . the receiving node first checks whether the message is a “ pass ,” at a pass checking step 52 . if so , the receiving node adds p to the list of passed nodes , at a pass list compilation step 54 . this list is consulted at a pass completion step 56 ( which is essentially synchronization step 32 , shown in fig2 a ) to determine when all the nodes have passed . if all the nodes have already passed , it means that message m must contain the support of one or more itemsets in l k whose support p did not broadcast previously , and is now broadcasting at step 42 ( fig2 a ). in this case , the receiving node simply updates its corresponding support counts for these itemsets , at a support update step 58 . if at step 56 not all nodes have yet passed , it means that message m contains the support count for some itemset x i εc k , broadcast by p at step 36 ( fig2 a ). in this case , the receiving node checks to determine whether it previously listed p in the set passed , at a pass list checking step 62 . if so , p is now removed from the set passed , at a pass removal step 64 . in either case , the receiving node recalculates the selection hypotheses h and p for itemset x i , at a parameter recalculation step 66 , and uses the new hypotheses in making its own broadcast decision about this itemset at step 34 ( fig2 a ). substantially any choice of functions h and p that satisfy the criteria defined above can be used in the ddm method . as an exemplary choice , we define h and p as follows : h ( x i ) = { 0 g ( x i ) = ϕ ∑ x i p ∈ g ( x i ) x i p ∑ x i p ∈ g ( x i ) d p · d otherwise ( 1 ) p ( x i , db j ) = ∑ x i p ∈ g ( x i ) x i p + x i j d j · ∑ x i p ∉ g ( x i ) d p ( 2 ) some alternative formulations of h and p , which may also be useful in decision problems of other types , are described in appendix a , hereinbelow . when estimating h , the nodes assume that the unexpressed support counts for each itemset are , on the average , the same as those already expressed . for p , on the other hand , each node assumes that those nodes that have not yet expressed their local support counts for that itemset have the same relative support as it does itself . usually each node can choose which of several candidate itemsets will have its support count sent next . many heuristics can be used to break ties , for example : whenever two nodes are able to express the local support counts of the same candidate itemset , it is best if the node whose local support count will make a greater change in p expresses its support first . if there are opposing nodes for a candidate itemset ( some of whose p is larger and others whose p is smaller than minsup · d ), then the one that makes the greater change has the better chance of “ convincing ” opposing nodes that they are wrong . if an opposing node &# 39 ; s value of p is changed by the message to the extent that it now agrees with that of the sending node , the opposing node will refrain from expressing its own support and thus will save the cost of additional messages . it is therefore a good strategy for a node to send those support counts which will cause the greatest change in the corresponding p hypothesis of opposing nodes . when node k expresses support for itemset x i , the influence on p of party 1 is equal to x i k - x i l d 1 · d k . since x i 1 has not yet been expressed , however , we estimate the change as a rating function : r ( x i , db k ) = x i k - h ( x i ) d · d k . ( 3 ) any node thus breaks a tie by choosing to broadcast the support counts of those itemsets that have the maximal r ( x i , db j ) value . preferably , each node queues its itemsets for broadcasting according to their respective r ( x i , db j ) values , updating the values ( and the queue order ) as it receives new support count data . table i below summarizes , in pseudocode form , the ddm method described above : initialize c 1 = {{ i } : i ε i }, k = 1 , passed = ø choose an itemset x i ε c k that was not yet chosen and for which either h ( x i ) & lt ; minsup ≦ p ( x i , db j ) or p ( x i , db j ) & lt ; minsup ≦ h ( x i ), and broadcast l k = { x i ε c k : h ( x i ) ≧ minsup }. broadcast the support counts for every x i ε l k that else if | passed | = n , then m is the support counts of fig3 a - d , 4 a - d and 5 a - d are bar charts that schematically describe a running example of the ddm method for a single itemset , with four computing nodes 22 , labeled a through d . each set of bar charts reflects a subsequent point in the procedure . sub - figures a through d at each point represent the state of calculations of h and p for the itemset at each of the corresponding nodes . minsup is arbitrarily fixed at 20 . the nodes begin in fig3 a - d with local support counts 72 of 5 , 7 , 1 and 2 , respectively . each node calculates its private value 78 of p , based on its particular local support count . p in each cage is based on a local guaranteed count 74 equal to the node &# 39 ; s local count 72 , plus local speculative counts 76 of the other nodes , which are assumed by the node ( in the absence of evidence to the contrary ) to be equal to the local count . at first , before any messages are exchanged , the itemset is considered infrequent because the global hypothesis h is zero . nodes a and b disagree with this hypothesis , however , because their local ( private ) hypothesis p is that the itemset is frequent . at some point , this disagreement causes node b to broadcast its local count . this changes both private value 78 of local hypothesis p and a global value 82 of global hypothesis h at all the nodes , as shown in fig4 a - d . for each node other than b , value 78 includes local guaranteed count 74 plus a public guaranteed count 80 , due to the support count broadcast by b , plus speculative counts 76 . global value 82 for all the nodes now includes public guaranteed count 80 , plus global speculative counts 84 attributed to the other nodes . the local count of node b is marked as a public local count 86 , to indicate that b should not broadcast this count again . at this point , node a is satisfied that its local and global hypotheses agree ( both being greater than minsup ), but for nodes c and d , the hypotheses now disagree . therefore , node c broadcasts its local support count 72 . the result is shown in fig5 a - 5d . now , for both nodes a and d , the global and local hypotheses agree . since nodes b and c have already expressed their local counts , they accept the global hypothesis . this itemset is now known to be infrequent , and no more information will be transmitted with regard to this itemset , even though its exact support count remains unknown . the entire exchange has taken only two messages to complete , compared to six messages that would be required by fdm in order to reach the same conclusion . although the ddm method shown in table i already reduces significantly the communication complexity of d - arm , by comparison with methods known in the art , there are a number of ways in which it is possible to reduce the communication load still further . in this regard , it is often the case that partitions are not equally important . typically , one partition may be exceptionally large and / or it may contain data that are more significant , in that a frequent itemset is even more frequent in that partition . for example , if each partition contains the data from a different store , then partitions that belong to superstores are obviously more significant than those belonging to grocery stores . it is therefore desirable that nodes that have more convincing evidence ( extreme support counts ) send their support counts at an earlier stage of the negotiation , due to the likelihood that their evidence will shorten negotiation time and reduce communication . similarly , nodes that do not have convincing evidence should preferably refrain from sending messages , so as not to use bandwidth that can be better employed by others . as given by equation ( 3 ) above , the rating function , r ( x i , db k ) = x i k - h ( x i ) d · d , gives the kth node an estimate of the effectiveness of each of its possible messages . thus , it is preferable that the series of broadcast messages transmitted by the nodes have a constantly - decreasing value of r . generating such a series , however , requires that the nodes have global knowledge for weighing the importance of their own possible messages . for this purpose , an improvement to the ddm method is presented below in table ii . this improved method is referred to herein as the preemptive distributed decision miner ( pddm ) method . it achieves a nearly - monotonically decreasing series of r values by selecting as a leader the node that has sent the message with the maximal r . each node tracks the leader &# 39 ; s identity and the r value of the last message sent by the leader . no other node is allowed to send messages unless the r value of its own message is greater than that of the last message sent by the leader . if some other node sends a message with r greater than that of the leader , this node then replaces the leader . initialize c 1 = {{ i } : i ε i }, k = 1 , passed = ø , choose an itemset x i ε c k that was not yet chosen and for which either h ( x i ) & lt ; minsup ≦ p ( x i , db j ) or p ( x i , db j ) & lt ; minsup ≦ h ( x i ) and which maximizes if such an itemset exists , and either r ( x i , db j ) & gt ; last_r , or leader = j , broadcast ( i , support ( x i , db j )). l k = { x i ε c k : h ( x i ) ≧ minsup }. broadcast the support counts for every x i ε l k that else if | passed | = n , then m is the support counts of if leader = p , then update last_r = r ( x i , db p ). preventing other nodes from sending messages , as provided by pddm , does not affect the correctness of the ddm method , because the method still terminates in the same state . it is important , however , that the leader hand the leadership on to another node when it decides to pass on its turn , since otherwise the method might not terminate . hence , each time the leader passes on its turn , all nodes set the value of the leader &# 39 ; s last r to zero . when the leader &# 39 ; s last r is zero , any node that has any message to send may send it , and a node that has no message to send will pass on its turn . it is easy for any node to calculate the leader &# 39 ; s r value using equation ( 3 ). optionally , r can be extended to include other properties of the message sent by the leader . for example , r can be used to encode information about the cost of sending the message , whether in terms of time ( such as due to bandwidth restrictions ) or money ( when messages are sent , for instance , over a costly wireless channel ). the pddm method tries to reach an r - optimal negotiation regardless of what r encodes . it will be observed that in a highly - skewed database , pddm reduces considerably the communication complexity of the basic ddm method described above . in balanced databases , the communication complexity is roughly unchanged , but pddm imposes a small additional computational burden on the nodes . whereas the ddm and pddm methods described above focus on improving the communication efficiency of finding itemsets with sufficient support , the ultimate object of arm is to find association rules that not only have support greater than minsup , but which also have confidence greater than minconf . it is not necessary to calculate the exact support or confidence or the rules , but only to verify that they exceed the predetermined thresholds . this observation allows further simplification of the communication process , as illustrated by the following two examples : 1 . assume that parmesan , pastasauce and parmesan λ pastasauce are all globally frequent . the rule pastasauce parmesan should thus be considered . assume also that this rule is locally frequent in every partition , but confident in none ( i . e ., support ( parmesan ⋀ pastasauce , db p ) support ( pastasauce , db p ) & lt ; λ for all p ). using ddm , three messages are required to determine that both parmesan λ pastasauce and pastasauce are significant ( compared to 6 n messages in fdm ). using ddm and pddm , an additional 3 ( n − 1 ) messages would be needed to collect the local support counts of the remaining nodes for parmesan λ pastasauce and pastasauce before judging whether pastasauce parmesan is significant . note , however , that if there is no node at which the local confidence of this rule is above λ , then the global confidence cannot be above λ . by implementing an appropriate decision criterion , this rule could have been pruned without sending a single message . 2 . assume that this same rule is both supported and confident in every partition . if one node suggests that the rule is globally confident , and no other node objects , this information is sufficient to determine that the rule is indeed globally significant . fig6 a and 6b are flow charts that schematically illustrate a method for d - arm based on these observations , in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention . the method is referred to herein as the distributed dual decision miner ( dddm ) and is shown in pseudocode form in table iii below . in the first phase of this method , shown in fig6 a , itemsets with support above minsup are collected into a set l ={ l 1 , l 2 , . . . , l k }, substantially as described above . either the ddm or the pddm method may be used for this purpose . it will accordingly be observed that fig6 a is substantially similar to fig2 a , up through step 46 , except that steep 42 is eliminated here . because of the improved method introduced here for mining association rules with high confidence , which is performed at a mining stop 90 , there is no need for all the nodes to broadcast their support counts for all the itemsets in l . the method by which nodes 22 process the broadcast messages that they receive is substantially identical to that shown in fig2 b . initialize c 1 = {{ i } : i ε i }, k = 1 , passed = ø choose an itemset x i ε c k that was not yet chosen and for which either h ( x i ) & lt ; minsup ≦ p ( x i , db j ) or p ( x i , db j ) & lt ; minsup ≦ h ( x i ), and broadcast l k = { x i ε c k : h ( x i ) ≧ minsup }. else if | passed | = n , then m is the support counts of at step 90 , nodes 22 mine l to find rules whose confidence is greater than a user - defined threshold λ . this method , referred to herein as the distributed decision confidence miner ( ddcm ) is shown in fig6 b , and is also listed below in pseudocode form in table iv . it corresponds to the step “ mine 13 rules ( l 1 , l 2 , . . . , l k )” in table iii . at the outset of ddcm , each node 22 constructs the set of all rules r 1 supported by l , at a rule initialization step 92 . as listed in table iv , r 1 contains all rules r k of the form x p x a \ x p such that x p , x a εl and x p ⊂ x a . a set of passed nodes , which is initially empty , is used here as in the ddm method . ddcm continues iteratively to evaluate rules r k and to collect their support until all nodes have passed , at a rule synchronization step 94 . ddcm then makes one round of negotiations among nodes 22 to decide which of the candidate rules r k satisfy the condition that support ( x a , db )≧ λ · support ( x p , db ). in the course of this negotiation , each node 22 determines which rules are likely to influence this decision , at a candidate rule selection step 96 . the determination is based on global and local rule hypothesis criteria , h and p , which are conceptually similar to the itemset hypothesis criteria used at step 34 . as in the case of the basic ddm method , a range of different choices of h and p may be used here , as well . exemplary hypothesis functions are defined by equations ( 4 ) and ( 5 ) below . for simplicity of notation , we represent the rule x p x a \ x p as r ap and define the group of rules g ( r ap ) as g ( r ap ) = { j : x p j ∈ g ( x p ) ⋀ x a j ∈ g ( x a ) } , wherein g ( x p ) and g ( x a ) are the corresponding groups of itemsets . p ( r ap ) = ∑ 1 ∈ g ( r ap ) x a l + ( n - g ( r ap ) ) · x a i ∑ 1 ∈ g ( r ap ) x p l + ( n - g ( r ap ) ) · x p i ( 4 ) h ( x i ) = { ∑ 1 ∈ g ( r ap ) x a l ∑ 1 ∈ g ( r ap ) x p l g ( r ap ) & gt ; 0 0 otherwise ( 5 ) for each node 22 , a given rule r ap will be selected at step 96 if the values of h and p calculated by this node for this rule disagree as to whether or not the confidence of the rule is above the threshold λ . if such a rule exists , and node 22 has not previously broadcast the support of either or both of x a and x p , the node broadcasts the as - yet unbroadcast support , at a broadcasting step 98 . the node thus sends a message of one of three types : 〈 k , x p i , x a i 〉 , 〈 k , x p i 〉 , or 〈 k , x a i 〉 , depending on the choice of support counts to be expressed , wherein k is the number of the rule in some deterministic enumeration . a ranking function r may be defined , as in pddm , to determine the order in which the node will choose the rules for broadcast , for example : r ( r ap , db i ) = x a i - h ( x a ) d · d i x p i - h ( x p ) d · d i ( 6 ) when node 22 has no more rules remaining that meet the criteria of step 96 , it broadcasts a pass message , at a pass broadcast step 100 . at the same time as nodes 22 transmit messages in steps 96 through 100 , they also receive the messages that are broadcast by the other nodes . the nodes handle these messages in a manner similar to that shown in fig2 b . whenever one of the nodes receives a broadcast message containing another node &# 39 ; s support count for some rule r ap , it uses the support count to recalculate g ( r 1 ) for every rule r 1 that includes either x a or x p . if g ( r 1 ) changes as a consequence , the node then updates h ( r 1 ) and p ( r 1 ) accordingly , for subsequent use at step 96 . once all the nodes have passed at step 94 , each node can compute the complete set r t , containing the rules r k from the original set r 1 that have been found to have confidence greater than the threshold λ , at a mining completion step 102 . at this point , the global hypotheses h of all the nodes will have converged , so that the members of r t are simply those rules for which h ( r k )≧ λ . r 1 to be set of all rules x p x a \ x p such that x p , choose r k to be some x p x a \ x p ε r 1 such that i ≠ g ( r k ), and either h ( r k ) & lt ; λ ≦ p ( r k , db i ) or p ( r k , db i ) & lt ; λ r t = { r k ε r 1 : h ( r k ) ≧ λ }. else m = ( k , support ( x p , db j , support ( x a , db j )). recalculate g ( r 1 ) for every r 1 that includes x a and / or x p ; if g \( r 1 ) changes , update h ( r 1 ) and p ( r 1 ), the number of rules that can be generated from a given set of frequent itemsets is enormous . in order to check all the potential rules induced by a single k - size frequent itemset x , it is necessary to check every rule x p x a \ x p : x p ⊂ x a ⊂ x . this is a total of ∑ i = 1 k ( k i ) ∑ j = 1 i ( i j ) = 3 k potential rules . it is possible , however , to prune the rules in advance using the following observation : if x p and x a are two itemsets , such that x p ⊂ x a , and the confidence of x p x a \ x p is below the minconf threshold , then for any x pp ⊂ x p , the confidence of x pp x a \ x pp is also below minconf . similarly , for any x aa ⊂ x a , the confidence of x p x aa \ x p is below minconf . this observation is correct because support ( x p , db )≦ support ( x pp , db ), and support ( x aa , db )≦ support ( x a , db ). if , on the other hand , the rule x p x a \ x p is confident , then for every x p ⊂ x pp ⊂ x aa ⊂ x a , the rule x pp x aa \ x pp is confident as well . this observation allows us to alter the ddcm method of table iv by splitting it into several rounds . this improved method , referred to herein as the pruning distributed decision confidence miner ( pddcm ), is shown below in table v . at each round of the pddcm method , many of the possible rules can either be pruned or inferred with no communication . we initialize the candidate rule set r k with a single rule r 0 ={ ø ø }, which must be both supported and confident . in each round , nodes 22 run a procedure similar to ddcm to decide which of the rules in r k are confident . the nodes develop new candidate rules according to the following two candidate generation methods : if a rule r k is found to be confident , then every rule that specifies the precedent or generalizes the antecedent of r k must also be confident , and every rule that further specifies the antecedent is considered a candidate . if , on the other hand , a rule is found not to be confident , another rule that specifies its precedent may still be a candidate . choose r 1 to be some x p x a \ x p ε r k such that i ≠ g ( r 1 ), and either h ( r 1 ) & lt ; λ ≦ p ( r 1 , db i ) or p ( r 1 , db i ) & lt ; for each r 1 = x p x a \ x p ε r k such that h ( r 1 ) & lt ; r k + 1 = r k + 1 ∪ { x pp x a \ x pp : x pp ε specifiers ( x p )}. for each r 1 = x p x a \ x p ε r k such that h ( r 1 ) ≧ r k + 1 = r k + 1 ∪ { x p x aa \ x p : x aa ε specifiers ( x a )}. r t = r t ∪ { x pp x aa \ x pp : x p ⊂ x pp ⊂ x aa ⊂ x a }. else m = ( k , support ( x p , db j ), support ( x a , db j )). recalculate g ( r 1 ) for every r 1 that includes x a and / or x p ; if g \( r 1 ) changes , update h ( r 1 ) and p ( r 1 ), the inventors have tested the methods of the present invention on synthetic databases , generated using the “ gen ” tool , which is available at www . almaden . ibm . com / cs / quest . the results have been compared with those obtained by processing the same databases using the cd and fdm algorithms described in the background of the invention . the number of bytes that must be transmitted to find association rules using cd or fdm grows rapidly as the value of minsup or the number of computing nodes n increase . the growth is considerably slower when the methods of the present invention are used , with dddm giving the best performance on unskewed databases . in heavily - skewed databases , pddm is substantially better than ddm . a method combining the features of dddm and pddm would likely give the best overall performance . the methods described hereinabove may be used to address substantially any d - arm problem , but they are particularly advantageous in applications involving a large number of widely - distributed computing nodes . for example , these methods may be used to mine peer - to - peer system , for purposes such as finding associations between the mp3 files of different napster users ( more than 1 . 5 million files in about 10 , 000 libraries at present ). no method known in the art can cope with n = 10 , 000 with the internet communication speed available today . as another example , the methods of the present invention may be used for broad - scale parallelization of data mining , splitting the problem until each partition fits into the memory of a conventional personal computer . in addition , these methods are particularly useful in environments in which communication bandwidth is at a premium , such as billing centers for large communication providers . although these billing centers usually have fast and wide - ranging networks , data mining is performed in such centers as an auxiliary task , and the resources it consumes come at the expense of the main system activity . although the preferred embodiments described above are directed to count distribution ( cd ) type approaches to d - arm , the principles of the present invention may also be applied , mutatis mutandis , to approaches of other types , such as data distribution ( dd ) approaches , as described in the above - mentioned article by agrawal and shafer . similarly , although these preferred embodiments are based on certain characteristics of common networks and computing systems , such as broadcast support , for example , the method of the present invention are not inherently dependent on particular system or network characteristics , and may therefore be adapted to work in substantially any distributed computing environment . it will thus be appreciated that the preferred embodiments described above are cited by way of example , and that the prevent invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove . rather , the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove , as well as variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not disclosed in the prior art . ddm can be applied to a variety of decision problems . a sequential decision problem can be written as f : x , δ →{ 0 , 1 }, where x is some arbitrary measure and δ is a threshold which is provided by the user . in the distributed form of a decision function we assume that the measure is the average ( or the sum ) of n measures , each held by a different computing node . hence , g : x -- , δ → { 0 , 1 } = f ; 1 n ∑ i = 1 n x i , δ → { 0 , 1 } . in the preferred embodiments of the present invention described above , the hypothesis functions h and p are defined in terms of two target functions : f support ( x , minsup ) = { 0 x & lt ; minsup 1 x ≥ minsup f confidence ( 〈 x , y 〉 , minconf ) = { 0 x y & lt ; minconf 1 x y ≥ minconf , here we will show that the same algorithm can be applied ( i . e ., h and p can be defined ) for two other target functions : the variance and the entropy h 2 . both target functions are defined on distributions , which can be referred to as vectors of values . the h function will , in both cases , have the same rationale as in the case of f support and f confidence ; the nodes will assume that the partial information published at each stage of the algorithm correctly represents the distribution . as for the p function , it becomes a little more complicated because the upper bound and the lower bound are calculated using different formulas . also , they require the computation of the smoothest possible distribution ( hence spd ), given a partial group of the distribution vectors . for k = 2 the solution is simple : • if x 0 r + ∑ i ∈ g x 0 i & lt ; 1 2 and x 1 r + ∑ i ∈ g x 1 i & lt ; 1 2 - the spd is ( 1 2 , 1 2 ) • if x 0 r + ∑ i ∈ g x 0 i & gt ; 1 2 - the spd is ( x 0 r + ∑ i ∈ g x 0 i , 1 - x 0 r - ∑ i ∈ g x 0 i ) • if x 1 r + ∑ i ∈ g x 1 i & gt ; 1 2 - the spd is ( 1 - x 1 r - ∑ i ∈ g x 1 i , x 1 r + ∑ i ∈ g x 1 i ) for k larger than 2 the computation of the spd can be computed by an algorithm which has complexity linear in k . f var ( x , σ 2 ) = { 0 var ( x ) & lt ; σ 2 1 var ( x ) ≥ σ 2 , where x = { x 1 , x 2 , … , x k } is a distribution measure . the h function will have the same rationale as in the case of the support and confidence target functions , it will assume that the data already sent represents the data that was not sent . hence , given x g − a partial group of x i vectors , sent by part of the nodes h ( x g ) = { 0 x g = 0 var ( 1 x g ∑ x 1 ∈ x g x i ) otherwise ; is the piecewise average distribution . each node r will also compute : p ( x g , x r ) = { h ( x g ) x r ∈ x g var ( 1 n [ ( n - x g ) x r + ∑ x i ∈ x g x i ] ) h ( x g ) & gt ; σ 2 var ( spd ( x g ) ) h ( x g ) ≤ σ 2 . f h 2 ( x , γ ) = { 0 h 2 ( x ) & lt ; γ 1 h 2 ( x ) ≥ γ ; where x ={ x 1 , x 2 , . . . , x k } is a distribution measure . the h function will have the same rationale as in the case of the support and confidence target functions , it will assume that the data already sent represents the data that was not sent . hence , given x g − a partial group of x i vectors , sent by part of the nodes , h ( x g ) = { 0 x g = 0 h 2 ( 1 x g ∑ x i ∈ x g x i ) otherwise ; p ( x g , x r ) = { h ( x g ) x r ∈ x g h 2 ( 1 n [ ( n - | x g | ) x r + ∑ x i ∈ x g x i ] ) h ( x g ) & lt ; γ 2 h 2 ( s p d ( x g ) ) h ( x g ) ≥ γ 2 . | US-8096802-A |
a method and appaatus for curing a gasket material on a cap , the apparatus having a microwave transmitter , associated wavegide and a device for moving multiple caps through the waveguide . a plastic material is applied to the cap so as to form a gasket . the cap is then moved through the waveguide where microwave energy is absorbed by plastic material . the plastic material then heats from room temperature to a predetermined curing temperature in the waveguide . the cap is then removed and allowed to cool back to room temperature so that the gasket material will harden . | referring to fig1 there is shown an apparatus 9 for curing a closure made up of a cap and gasket material , such apparatus 9 includes a microwave frequency transmitter 10 ( 300 mhz - 300 ghz ) or any radio frequency ( approximately 20 khz - 300 ghz ) transmitter connected to a waveguide structure 11 . waveguide structure 11 has a straight waveguide section 12 attached to the lower portion 14 of a vertical main , rectangular cross - section waveguide section 16 . attached at the upper portion 18 of the vertical main waveguide section 16 is a straight waveguide section 20 having a water load 21 at its far end . within main waveguide section 16 is single mode waveguide cavity 23 . referring to fig2 there is shown a closure 22 having a cap 24 with a gasket material 26 typically embedded within a groove 28 formed on the cap &# 39 ; s end panel 30 . caps 24 can vary in height and shape and ordinarily have a ridge 32 and a skirt 33 . cap 24 will preferably have a height of less than 4 inches and a diameter also less than 4 inches . the cap 24 is typically made from a hardened plastic , such as polypropylene material . the gasket material 26 is also made from a plastic material such as polyvinyl chloride ( pvc ) powder and another plastic material that plasticizes pvc and may be a member of the phthalate family . gasket material 26 is highly absorptive of microwave energy ( i . e . it has material properties that absorb microwave energy and cause it to heat up in a microwave field ) relative to the microwave energy absorptivity of the cap material ( which has a small conductivity and is essentially transparent to microwave energy ). the gasket material 26 thermal conductivity may be increased by mixing in with it a filler material such as alumina . referring to fig1 and 3 , there is shown a vertical main waveguide section 16 preferably constructed with a wr 975 guide tubing having a total length of approximately 8 . 0 feet . wr 975 guide has a width dimension that is twice its height dimension . the vertical main waveguide section 16 is constructed to operate in a te l0 mode . disposed on the opposite side of vertical main waveguide section 16 across from straight waveguide section 12 is feed inlet section 34 . across main waveguide section 16 from feed inlet section 34 is chain outlet section 36 . the floor of both feed inlet section 34 and chain outlet section 36 is disposed below the level where straight waveguide section 12 mates with main waveguide section 16 . across from straight waveguide section 20 , connected to main waveguide section 16 , is feed outlet section 38 . the height of feed outlet section 38 , feed inlet section 34 and chain outlet section 36 are less than 1 / 2 wavelength of the free space operating wavelength of the microwave energy used by the apparatus 9 to prevent microwave energy from leaking out of feed inlet section 34 , chain outlet section 36 and feed outlet section 38 . as is well known , microwave energy will not propagate through openings having a width and height less than 1 / 2 its wavelength . hence , since the free space operating wavelength is approximately 13 &# 34 ; inches , this feed structure allows 4 &# 34 ; caps to pass into main waveguide section 16 without requiring complicated choking structures . the distance between feed inlet section 34 and feed outlet section 38 is approximately 6 . 5 feet . referring to fig1 and 4 , on the floor of lower portion 14 of main waveguide section 16 is bottom guide structure 75 . the top surface 77 ( fig3 ) of bottom guide structure 75 is located 1 / 2 wavelength below the center of straight waveguide section 12 resulting in the guide structure 75 appearing as a short circuit . microwave energy from straight waveguide section 12 propagates up main waveguide section 16 and is not reflected back into straight waveguide section 12 . bottom guide structure 75 supports guide shafts 66 and 68 and drive screws 46 and 48 . referring to fig1 and 3 , a conveyer belt 40 runs through vertical main waveguide section 16 via feed inlet section 34 and chain outlet section 36 . conveyer belt 40 transports closures 22b ( fig1 ) and 22c ( fig3 ) into main waveguide section 16 . closure 22d is then transported upwards by a pair of drive screws 46 ( fig1 ) and 48 . closures 22a are deposited onto conveyer belt 40 through conveyer 42 . it is recognized by placing feed inlet section 34 and chain outlet section 36 below the level of straight waveguide section 12 , a conveyer belt 40 can extend through main waveguide section 16 and downward without having to also extend through straight waveguide section 12 . extending a conveyer belt through straight waveguide section 12 can complicate its construction . referring to fig1 connected to straight waveguide section 12 is blower 50 . blower 50 moves cool air into straight waveguide section 12 and through main waveguide section 16 to keep the air temperature within cavity 23 cool . this cool air prevents drive screws 46 and 48 from melting . located at the top of vertical main waveguide section 16 is a guide structure 52 which holds the drive screws 46 and 48 in place during operation . the bottom surface 53 ( fig3 ) of guide structure 52 is located at approximately 1 / 2 wavelength above the center of straight waveguide section 20 resulting in guide structure 52 operating as a short circuit . accordingly , the microwave energy within cavity 23 propagates into straight waveguide section 20 and does not reflect back in main waveguide section 16 . disposed directly below guide structure 52 is feed outlet section 38 . feed outlet section 38 has a maximum height dimension of less than 1 / 2 wavelength . referring to fig3 within feed outlet section 38 is a ramp 54 sloped at an angle such that closure 22e slides down and out of main waveguide section 16 after closure processing . across from feed outlet section 38 is a nozzle 58 which forces out closures 56 onto ramp with air pressure . referring to fig2 during closure processing operation , gasket material 26 in liquid form is injected into the groove 28 . referring to fig1 the closure 22 moves at room temperature onto a series of belts 42 and 40 into the waveguide section 16 . next closure 22c moves through the main waveguide section 16 . microwave frequency energy couples into main waveguide section 16 , wherein gasket material 26 is heated to a predetermined curing temperature , as noted previously the microwave absorptivity of the gasket material 26 is greater than that of the cap 24 material . accordingly , the gasket material 26 heats up faster than the cap 24 in the microwave field . the cap 24 heats primarily by conduction from the gasket material 26 . the gasket material 26 heats to the predetermined curing temperature . after reaching such temperature , the closure 22c ( fig3 ) then moves out of the main waveguide section 16 down ramp 54 onto other belts 60 where the closure 22g is cooled to room temperature and is transferred for further processing . more details of this curing operation will be explained later . disposed across from feed outlet section 38 below air blower 58 is straight waveguide section 20 . within straight waveguide section 20 is water load 21 which absorbs substantially all of the microwave energy that is propagated into main waveguide section 16 from transmitter 10 except for that portion absorbed by the gasket material . the length of straight waveguide section 20 may contain inductive posts or tuning stubs ( not shown ) to ensure minimal reflection from water load 21 . when microwave energy from transmitter 10 propagates through main waveguide section 16 , substantially all of the microwave energy is absorbed by water load 21 . more particularly , much less than 1 % of the total power available in main waveguide section 16 is absorbed in any individual closure such as closure 22d . for example , when closure 22 moves through main waveguide section 16 with no other closures in process , that closure moves through a microwave field having 100 % of the available power available when it first entered main waveguide . that closure also has 100 % of the available power available when it leaves main waveguide . hence , the average power that a closure is exposed to is 100 %. as a closure absorbs much less than 1 % ( approximately 0 . 1 % for a 50kw field ) of the average total power and is moved through the waveguide in approximately 30 seconds , the closure will absorb approximately 1500 joules . thus , when a closure moves through main waveguide section 16 in 30 seconds with the maximum number of closures in process ( approximately 60 ), that closure moves through a microwave field having 100 % of the available power when it first enters main waveguide section 16 . sixty closures will absorb 6 % of the total power in the main waveguide . hence , a closure moves through a field having 94 % of the available power just before it leaves main waveguide . the average power that a closure is exposed to is 97 %. accordingly , a closure in a fully loaded system moving through apparatus 9 within 30 seconds will absorb 1455 joules , only 3 % less than a system with only one closure in process . it is recognized by having a substantial percentage of microwave energy being absorbed by water load 21 , the number of closures within main waveguide section 16 at any given time with a fixed time interval will have little effect on the curing and final temperature of the gasket material 26 . in other words , having 1 closure or 60 closures within waveguide during a 30 second microwave exposure will have little effect on the finished closure and its gasket material . it is preferable that the transmitter 10 transmit between 30 and 50 kilowatts of power at 915 mhz to be able to cure gasket material at a rate of 120 closures per minute ; however , more or less power may be used if the main waveguide section 16 is modified slightly , as will be explained later . it is also preferable that a wr 975 type waveguide be used for 915 mhz transmitter frequency . the length of the main waveguide section 16 is constructed to ensure maximum throughput and that each closure remain in the waveguide for the minimum time ( see fig6 ). the feed inlet section 34 and feed outlet section 38 preferably have a height dimension of less than 41 / 2 inches . it is recognized that this height dimension is dependent on the microwave transmitter frequency . by having the maximum height dimension of feed inlet section 34 and chain outlet section 36 less than 1 / 2 wavelength , no special choking structure around feed inlet section 34 or chain outlet section 36 is required . in fig5 there is shown a drive system 64 which transports a closure 22d through the vertical main waveguide section 16 . the drive system 64 includes a left drive screw 48 and a right drive screw 46 . the drive system 64 also includes a pair of closure guides 66 and 68 which are held in place with mounting screws 70 and 72 . each drive screw 46 and 48 has a helical lip 74 ( fig3 and 5 ) which rotates around drive screws 46 and 48 . the spacing between lips 74 is preferably 1 - 2 inches . referring to fig3 and 4 , located on the bottom of waveguide section 16 is bottom guide structure 75 . bottom guide structure 75 supports drive screws 46 and 48 . closures 22 contain caps 24 that have a ridge 32 which is held in place with lips 74 . optionally , cap 24 may be supported on lips with end panel 30 . these caps 24 also have a skirt 33 having an outer diameter less than the ridge 32 outer diameter so that the closure 22 can hang between more than one pair of lips . lip 74 supports closures ( not shown ) having taller walls . if taller closures are used , the processing rate must be reduced . referring to fig5 the drive screws 46 and 48 rotate counter - clockwise which results in the closure 22d turning clockwise while being pushed upward . it is recognized by turning the closure while moving it through the main waveguide section 16 , more uniform curing occurs within the gasket material 26 . it is also recognized by not turning the closure 22d , the gasket material 26 ( fig2 ) may scorch . referring to fig4 the left drive screw 48 and right drive screw 46 are turned by a belt 78 connected to a motor ( not shown ) that is located below the main waveguide section 16 . it is preferable that the left drive screw 48 and right drive screw 46 are connected at their bottom to prevent slippage . it is also preferable that left and right drive screws 48 and 46 have one of their lips 74 properly aligned when the closure 22d is moved upward . referring to fig3 various conveyer systems are preferably used to place a closure into the main waveguide section 16 . at the bottom of the main waveguide section 16 running through feed inlet section 34 and feed inlet section 36 is conveyer belt 40 which is formed with a microwave transparent chain 80 . chain 80 is placed over a gearing mechanism 82 that is connected to motor ( not shown ) to move closures . conveyer 42 places closure 22a onto belt 40 . belt 40 moves closures 22c into main waveguide section 16 . closure 22d then moves through main waveguide section 16 , wherein closure 22d gasket material ( not shown ) is cured . closure 22e containing cured gasket material moves onto ramp 54 . below ramp 54 is conveyer 60 which moves closure 22g to another step for further processing . referring to fig3 and 4 , during operation , the closure &# 39 ; s 22 path is as follows : first , the liquid gasket material 26 is injected into the cap 24 . the closure 22 is then put on conveyer 42 at room temperature . the conveyer 42 then deposits the closure 22a onto conveyer 40 . conveyer 40 moves closure 22c through feed inlet section 34 and into vertical main waveguide section 16 . the closure 22c is stopped from going through the main waveguide section 16 by closure guide 68 . the left and right drive screws 46 and 48 rotate , resulting in the closure 22d rising upward . it is noted that as the closure 22d rises upward , it is held in place with closure guide 66 and closure guide 68 , and rotates in a counter - clockwise direction ( see fig5 ). further , as the closure 22d moves upward through vertical main waveguide section 16 , the gasket material 26 temperature rises , as does the temperature of the cap 24 until the gasket material 26 exceeds the curing temperature . at that time , the closure 22e will reach the top of vertical main waveguide section 16 . a blower , or alternately a tapping device , or equivalent , moves the closure 22e onto ramp 54 and then downward onto belt 60 to return the gasket material to room temperature . the gasket material will harden when cooled to room temperature . the closure 22g then moves to the next step in the process . it is recognized that with the disclosed embodiment , 120 closures per minute may be processed . it is noted that other embodiments may also be constructed having wider distances between lips , taller main waveguides , different waveguide shapes with a corresponding microwave frequency ( other than 915 mhz ) to change the processing rate , maximum cap heights or cap shape . it is also recognized that the closure 22 is moved through waveguide structure 11 at a rate to prevent gradients and scorching from developing in the gasket material 26 . the closure 22 moves through main waveguide section 16 at a fast enough rate so that the cap 24 does not heat by conduction from the gasket 26 to such an extreme temperature that closure 22 becomes distorted . the preferred embodiment has a water load termination 21 which absorbs substantially all of the microwave energy generated by the transmitter 10 . however , it may also be preferable that the water load 21 ( or other load ) be located within the transmitter and the far end of the vertical main waveguide be constructed so as to reflect all of the microwave energy transmitted into the main waveguide section 16 . this approach will permit each closure to absorb twice the power as a non - reflecting waveguide ; however , the variation in the power going to each closure 22 will be more susceptible to non - uniformities in main waveguide section 16 due to varying numbers of closures in the vertical main waveguide section 16 . if this approach is taken , a three port microwave circulator would be located in the transmitter . the load would be coupled to one port of the circulator , the microwave source would be coupled to the second port and the waveguide applicator would be coupled to the third port . it may also be preferable that another approach be taken having one or more waveguides connected to the first waveguide structure 11 . these waveguide structures would be substantially identical and would be connected so that several waveguide structures may process caps simultaneously . this additional waveguide structure will be positioned such that the microwave energy from the first waveguide structure enters the additional waveguide structure through the location where the water load 21 is located on the shown embodiment ( fig1 ). at the location of where transmitter 10 is located on the first waveguide structure on the additional waveguide structure would be a water load which would absorb substantially of the microwave energy flowing through first and additional waveguide structures . the advantage of this approach is that twice or more caps may be processed simultaneously using the same transmitter 10 . referring to fig6 there is shown a plot of the temperature differential ( δt ) from the top to bottom of gasketing material 26 within a closure 22 as a function of the constant power process time using a gasket material having either standard degree of thermal conductivity , ( line 94 ) or higher degree as by adding alumina powder ( line 92 ). the process times given were for gasket material 26 having a thickness of 1 / 32 inches , reaching curing temperature ( approximately 425 ° f .) from room temperature ( 80 ° f .). the process time is a function of the dielectric absorptivity of the gasket material 26 , the heat transfer characteristics of cap 24 and the surface cooling rate of the gasket material 26 due to surrounding air . line 96 is the threshold where the temperature differential ( δt ) between the top and bottom of the gasket material 26 is too high . the high temperature differential may cause scorching in the gasket material 26 . below line 98 is the region where the gasket material temperature differential ( δt ) is acceptable . in this region , the gasket material 26 will cure evenly . therefore , standard gasket material , the desired process time is 50 seconds ( line 94 ) and for high conductivity gasket material , the process time will be approximately 30 seconds ( line 92 ). between line 96 and line 98 is the region where the gasket material 26 temperature differential ( δt ) at curing temperature is marginal . in this region , a few of the processed closure &# 39 ; s 22 gasket material 26 will have scorchings as well as a few of the closure &# 39 ; s gasket material may not be cured . the processing time for a closure 22 to fall in this region is either less than 0 . 25 seconds or greater than 25 seconds for standard conductivity gasket material ( line 94 ) and greater than 13 seconds for high conductivity gasket material ( line 92 ). accordingly , the closure may be processed in as quick as 13 seconds for high conductivity gasket material and as quick as 25 seconds for standard conductivity gasket material . accordingly , the closures should be transported through the main waveguide section 16 at a rate that will result in the gasket material reaching curing temperature with minimal scorching or distortion . it is recognized that moving a closure 22 through the main waveguide section 16 in 30 seconds under constant power will cure gasket material 26 with the acceptable limits . this rate will allow 120 one inch closures to be processed in one minute . this concludes the description of the preferred embodiments . a reading of those skilled in the art will bring to mind many modifications and alternatives without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention . accordingly , it is intended that the invention only be limited by the following claims . | US-38943889-A |
a method and apparatus for sorting particles moving through a closed channel system of capillary size comprises a bubble valve for selectively generating a pressure pulse to separate a particle having a predetermined characteristic from a stream of particles . the particle sorting system may further include a buffer for absorbing the pressure pulse . the particle sorting system may include a plurality of closely coupled sorting modules which are combined to further increase the sorting rate . the particle sorting system may comprise a multi - stage sorting device for serially sorting streams of particles , in order to decrease the error rate . | the present invention provides a particle sorting system for sorting particles suspended in a liquid . the particle sorting system provides high - throughput , low error sorting of particles based on a predetermined characteristic . the present invention will be described below relative to illustrative embodiments . those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be implemented in a number of different applications and embodiments and is not specifically limited in its application to the particular embodiments depicted herein . fig1 shows a schematic of a particle sorting system according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention . according to one application of the present invention , a particle sorting system 10 comprises a closed channel system of capillary size for sorting particles . the channel system comprises a first supply duct 12 for introducing a stream of particles 18 and a second supply duct 14 for supplying a carrier liquid . the first supply duct 12 forms a nozzle 12 a , and a stream of particles is introduced into the flow of carrier liquid . the first supply duct 12 and the second supply duct 14 enter a measurement duct 16 for conveying the particles suspended in the carrier liquid , which branches into a first branch 22 a and a second branch 22 b at a branch point 21 . a measurement region 20 is defined in the measurement duct 16 and is associated with a detector 19 to sense a predetermined characteristic of particles in the measurement region 20 . two opposed of bubble valves 100 a and 100 b are positioned in communication with the measurement duct 16 and are spaced opposite each other . the bubble valves 100 a , 100 b communicate with the measurement duct 16 through a pair of opposed side passages 24 a and 24 b , respectively . liquid is allowed to partly fill these side passages 24 a and 24 b to form a meniscus 25 a and 25 b , respectively , therein . the meniscus defines an interface between the carrier liquid and a gas in the reservoir of the associated bubble valve 100 . an external actuator 26 is also provided for actuating the first bubble valves 100 a , which momentarily causes a flow disturbance in the duct to deflect the flow therein when activated by the actuator 26 . the second bubble valve 100 b serves as a buffer for absorbing the pressure pulse created by the first bubble valve 100 a . the first side passage 24 a is hydraulically connected to a compression chamber 70 a in the first bubble valve 100 a , so that if the pressure in this chamber is increased , the flow in the measurement duct near the side passage is displaced inwards , substantially perpendicular to the normal flow in the duct . the second side passage 24 b , positioned opposite of the first side passage 24 a is hydraulically connected to a buffer chamber 70 b in the second bubble valve 100 b for absorbing pressure transients . this second side passage 24 b co - operates with the first side passage 24 a to direct the before mentioned liquid displacement caused by pressurizing the compression chamber 70 a , so that the displacement has a component perpendicular to the normal flow of the particles through the measurement duct . upon pressurizing the compression chamber 70 a an amount of liquid is transiently discharged from the first side passage 24 a . the resiliency of the second side passage 24 b results upon a pressurized discharge , in a transient flow of the liquid in the duct into the second side passage 24 a . the co - operation of the two side passages and the fluidic structures they interconnect causes the flow through the measurement duct 16 to be transiently moved sideways back and forth upon pressurizing and depressurising of the compression chamber 70 a induced by the external actuator 26 in response to the signal raised by the detection means 19 . this transient liquid displacement , having a component perpendicular to the normal flow in the duct , can be applied in deflecting particles having predetermined characteristics to separate them from the remaining particles in the mixture . as shown , the measurement duct 16 branches at the branch point 21 into two branches 22 a , 22 b and the flow rates in these branches are adjusted so that the particles normally stream through the second of the two branches 22 b . the angle between the branches 22 a , 22 b is between 0 and 180 degrees , preferably between 10 and 45 degrees . however , the angle can even be 0 degrees , which corresponds to two parallel ducts with a straight separation wall between them . the particles to be sorted are preferably supplied to a measurement position in a central fluid current , which is surrounded by a particle free liquid sheath . the process of confining a particle stream is known , and often referred to as a ‘ sheath flow ’ configuration . normally confinement is achieved by injecting a stream of suspended particles through a narrow outlet nozzle into a particle free carrier liquid flowing in the duct 16 . by adjusting the ratio of flow rates of the suspension and carrier liquid , the radial confinement in the duct as well as the inter particle distance can be adjusted . a relative large flow rate of the carrier liquid results in a more confined particle stream having a large distance between particles . in a suspension introduced by the first supply duct 12 , two types of particles can be distinguished , normal particles 18 a and particles of interest 18 b . upon sensing the predetermined characteristic in a particle 18 b in the measurement region 20 , the detector 19 raises a signal . the external actuator 26 activates the first actuator bubble valve 100 a , when signaled by the detector 19 in response to sensing the predetermined characteristic , to create a flow disturbance in the measurement duct 16 between the side passages 24 a , 24 b . the flow disturbance deflects the particle 18 b having the predetermined characteristic so that it flows down the first branch duct 22 a rather than the second branch duct 22 b . the detector communicates with the actuator 26 , so that when the detector 19 senses a predetermined characteristic in a particle , the actuator activates the first bubble valve 100 a to cause pressure variations in the reservoir 70 a of the first bubble valve . the activation of the first bubble valves deflects the meniscus 25 a in the first bubble valve 100 a and causes a transient pressure variation in the first side passage 24 a . the second side passage 24 b and the second bubble valve 100 b absorb the transient pressure variations in the measurement duct 16 induced via the actuator 26 . basically , the reservoir 70 b of the second bubble valve 100 b is a buffer chamber having a resilient wall or containing a compressible fluid , such as a gas . the resilient properties allow the flow of liquid from the measurement duct into the second side passage 24 b , allowing the pressure pulse to be absorbed and preventing disturbance to the flow of the non - selected particles in the stream of particles . at the measurement region 20 , individual particles are inspected , using a suitable sensor means 19 , for a particular characteristic , such as size , form , fluorescent intensity etc . examples of applicable sensing means , known in the art , are various types of optical detection systems such as microscopes , machine vision systems and electronic means for measuring electronic properties of the particles . particularly well known systems in the field are systems for measuring the fluorescent intensity of particles . these systems comprise a light source having a suitable wavelength for inducing fluorescence and a detection system for measuring the intensity of the induced fluorescent light . this approach is often used in combination with particles that are labelled with a fluorescent marker , i . e . an attached molecule that upon illuminating with light of a particular first wavelength produces light at another particular second wavelength ( fluorescence ). if this second wavelength light is detected , the characteristic is sensed and a signal is raised . other examples include the measurement of light scattered by particles flowing through the measurement region . interpreting the scattering yield information on the size and form of particles , which can be adopted to raise a signal when a predetermined characteristic is detected . the actuator 26 for pressurizing the compression chamber of the first bubble valve may comprise an external actuator that responds to a signal from the sensor that a particle has a selected predetermined characteristic . there are two classes of external actuators that are suitable for increasing the pressure . the first class directly provides a gas pressure to the liquid in the first side passage 24 a . for example , the actuator may comprise a source of pressurized gas connected with a switching valve to the liquid column in the side passage 24 a . activation of the switch connects the passage to the source of pressurized gas , which deflects the meniscus in the liquid . upon deactivation , the switch connects the passage 24 a back to the normal operating pressure . alternatively , a displacement actuator may be used in combination with a closed compression chamber having a movable wall . when the displacement actuator displaces the wall of the compression chamber inward , the pressure inside increases . if the movable wall is displaced back to the original position , the pressure is reduced back to the normal operating pressure . an example of a suitable displacement actuator is an electromagnetic actuator , which causes displacement of a plunger upon energizing a coil . another example is the use of piezoelectric material , for example in the form of a cylinder or a stack of disks , which upon the application of a voltage produces a linear displacement . both types of actuators engage the movable wall of the compression chamber 70 to cause pressure variations therein . fig2 - 4 illustrate the switching operation of switch 40 in the particle sorting system 10 of fig1 . in fig2 , the detector 19 senses the predetermined characteristic in a particle and raises a signal to activate the actuator 26 . upon activation of the actuator , the pressure within the reservoir 70 a of the first bubble valve 100 a is increased , deflecting the meniscus 25 a and causing a transient discharge of liquid from the first side passage 24 a , as indicated by the arrow . the sudden pressure increase caused at this point in the duct causes liquid to flow into the second side passage 24 b , because of the resilient properties of the reservoir of the second bubble valve 100 b . this movement of liquid into the second side passage 24 b is indicated with an arrow . as a result , as can be seen in the figure , the flow through the measurement duct 16 is deflected , causing the selected particle of interest 18 b located between the first side passage 24 a and the second side passage 24 b to be shifted perpendicular to its flow direction in the normal state . the flow resistances to the measurement duct 16 , the first branch 22 a and the second branch 22 b is chosen so that the preferred direction of the flow to and from the first side passage 24 a and the second side passage 24 b has an appreciable component perpendicular to the normal flow through the measurement duct 16 . this goal can for instance be reached by the first branch 22 a and the second branch 22 b so that their resistances to flow is large in comparison with the flow resistances of the first side passage 24 a and the second side passage 24 b . fig3 shows the particle sorting system 10 during the relief of the first bubble valve reservoir when the particle of interest 18 b has left the volume between the first side passage 24 a and the second side passage 24 b . the actuator 26 is deactivated , causing the pressure inside the reservoirs 70 a , 70 b to return to the normal pressure . during this relief phase there is a negative pressure difference between the two reservoirs 70 a , 70 b of the bubble valves , causing a liquid flow through the first side passage 24 a and the second side passage 24 b opposite to the liquid flow shown in the previous figure and as indicated by the arrows . fig4 illustrates the particle sorting system 10 after completion of the switching sequence . the pressures inside the reservoirs of the bubble valves are equalized , allowing the flow through the measurement duct 16 to normalize . as the particle of interest 18 b has been displaced radially , it will flow into the first branch 22 a , while the other particle continue to flow into the second branch 22 b , thereby separating the particles based on the predetermined characteristic . this process of detecting and selective deflecting of particles may be repeated many times per second for sorting particles at a high rate . adopting the fluid switching as described , switching operations may be executed up to around several thousand switching operations per second , yielding sorting rates in the order of million sorted particles per hour . according to another embodiment of the invention , the actuator bubble valve 100 a and the buffer bubble valve 100 b may be placed in different positions . for example , as shown in fig5 , the actuator bubble valve 100 a and the first side passage 24 a and / or the buffer bubble valve 100 b and the second side passage 24 b may be place upstream from the branch point 21 . the components may be placed in any suitable location , such that the flow resistance between the actuator chamber 70 a and the buffer chamber 70 b is less than the flow resistance between any of these latter components and other pressure sources . more particularly , the actuator chamber 70 a and the buffer chamber 70 b may be placed such that the flow resistance between them is less than the flow resistance between a selected particle and a subsequent particle in the stream of particles . the positioning of the components in this manner thus prevents a pressure wave generated by the above described method of deflecting a single selected particle , from travelling upstream or downstream and affecting the flow of the remaining particles in the stream of particles . the larger the difference in flow resistances , the larger the level of isolation of the fluidic switching operation with associated pressure transients from the flow characteristics in the rest of the system . moreover , the in - situ dampening of generated pressure pulses applied for sorting allows the implementation of sorting networks comprising a plurality of switches 40 , each of which is hydraulically and pneumatically isolated from the others . according to another embodiment , shown in fig6 , the particle sorting system of the invention may use any suitable pressure wave generator ( in place of a bubble valve ) in combination with the buffer bubble valve 100 b . for example , the pressure wave generator 260 may comprise an actuator such as a piezoelectric column or a stepper motor , provided with a plunger that can act upon the flowing liquid , either directly or via deflection of the channel system , to selectively deflect particles when the actuator is activated by a signal . other suitable pressure wave generators include electromagnetic actuators , thermopneumatic actuators and a heat pulse generator for generating vapor bubbles in the flowing liquid by applying heat pulses . the buffer bubble valve 100 b is positioned to absorb the pressure wave created by the pressure wave generator 260 to prevent flow disturbance in the other particles of the particle stream . the spring constant of the buffer 100 b may be varied according to the particular requirements by varying the volume of the buffer chamber 70 b , the cross - sectional area of the side passage 24 b and / or the stiffness or the thickness of a flexible membrane ( reference 72 in fig7 ) forming the buffer chamber 70 b . fig7 illustrates an embodiment of a bubble valve 100 suitable for creating a pressure pulse to separate particles of interest from other particles in a stream of particles and / or acting as a buffer for absorbing a pressure pulse according to the teachings of the present invention . as shown , the bubble valve 100 is formed adjacent to a side passage 24 a or 24 b formed in a substrate which leads to the measurement duct 16 . the side passage 24 a includes a fluid interface port 17 formed by an aperture in the side wall of the passage . a sealed compression chamber 70 is positioned adjacent to the side passage 24 a and communicates with the side passage through the fluid interface port . the illustrative chamber 70 is formed by a seal 71 and a flexible membrane 72 . the carrier fluid in the side passage 24 a forms a meniscus 25 a at the interface between the side passage and the chamber . the actuator 26 depresses the flexible membrane to increase the pressure in the chamber , which deflects the meniscus and causes a pressure pulse in the carrier fluid . fig8 shows a sorting module 50 having an appropriate supply duct 52 for providing a stream of particles to be sorted as well as an outlet duct 54 and a second outlet duct 56 carrying the particles sorted in the sorting module 50 . the sorting module 50 comprises detector system 19 for sensing particles entering the sorting module 50 via the supply duct 52 operationally connected to a switch 40 for providing the required switching capabilities to sort particles . the first branch 22 b and second branch 22 a are in fluidic connection with the outlet duct 54 and second outlet duct 56 . fig9 shows a particle sorting system 500 according to an alternate embodiment of the invention , comprising a plurality of sorting module 50 operating in parallel . the individual outlet duct 54 of the sorting module 50 are forwarded to a first combined outlet 58 , the individual second outlet duct 56 are forwarded to a second combined outlet 60 . the parallel arrangement of sorting modules yields a system of combined sorting module 50 having an overall sorting rate of n times the sorting rate of an individual sorting module 50 , where n is the number of parallel connected sorting module 50 . fig1 shows a particle sorting system 550 according to another embodiment , comprising a first sorting module 50 a and a second sorting module 50 b in series with the first sorting module 50 a . the second sorting module 50 b may be equipped for sorting out particles having a predetermined characteristic different than the predetermined characteristic of the particles sorted out by the first sorting module 50 a . the particle stream enters the first sorting module 50 a through the supply duct 52 and may contain at least two types of particles . a first type of particles is sorted out in the first sorting module 50 a and leaves through the first outlet duct 54 a . the remaining particles leave the first sorting module 50 a through second outlet duct 56 a and are fed into the second sorting module 50 b via the second supply duct 52 b . from this stream of particles , particles having the other predetermined characteristic are sorted out and leave through the second outlet duct 54 b . particles that posses neither of the two predetermined characteristics leave the second sorting module 50 b via the second outlet duct 56 b . fig1 shows a hierarchical architecture for high throughput - low error sorting according to another embodiment of the invention . the embodiment shown is a two - stage particle sorting system 800 for sorting a plurality of parallel particles streams in a first stage , aggregating the outputs of the first stage and then performing a secondary sorting process on the output of the first stage . an input stream of particles in suspension 80 from a particle input chamber 88 is split among n single sorting channels 81 a - 81 n , each channel being capable of sorting a selected number of particles per second . each channel 81 includes a detection region 84 for examining the particles and identifying particles that have a predetermined characteristic and a switching region 82 for separating the particles having the predetermined characteristic from the other particles in the stream , as described above . the switching region 82 produces two output streams of particles : a “ selected ” stream and a “ rejected ” stream in its switching region 82 based on the measured particle characteristics at the detection region 84 . the “ selected ” streams from each channel are aggregated in an aggregation region 86 into one stream to be sorted again in a secondary sorting channel 810 . as shown , the secondary sorting channel 810 repeats the sorting process of detecting and sorting based on a predetermined characteristic . given that each single channel sorting process produces some error ( y ) rate ( y is a probability less than one of a particle being “ selected ” by mistake ) of mistaken selections , the hierarchical architecture produces an lower error rate of y 2 for a 2 - stage hierarchy as drawn or y n for an n - stage hierarchy . for example , if the single channel error rate is 1 % the 2 - stage error rate is 0 . 01 % or one part in 10 4 . alternatively , the architecture could have m primary sets of n sorting channels per secondary channel . given that the application wants to capture particles that have a presence in the input at rate z and single channel sorters have a maximum sorting rate x particles per second . the system throughput is m * n * x in particles per second . the number of particles aggregated in n channels per second is n * x * z and so n * z must be less than 1 so that all particles aggregated from n channels can be sorted by a single secondary channel . to increase throughput above n = 1 / z one must add parallel groups of n primary + 1 secondary channels . overall throughput then comes from m * n * x with m secondary channels . fig1 show a parallel - serial particle sorting system 160 according to another embodiment of the invention . the parallel - serial particle sorting system 160 includes a first parallel sorting module 161 and a second parallel sorting module 162 . the first sorting module 161 is applied in multiple marked particles and particles having both markers are sorted out and conveyed through the exit channel 165 . fig1 shows another parallel - serial particle sorting system 170 . the first parallel sorting module 171 separates particles having a first marker , collects the particles from the different channels and conveys the particles having the first marker through the first exit channel 175 . all other particles are then fed into a second parallel sorter 172 for sorting particles having a second marker . the particles having the second marker are collected and conveyed through a second exit channel 176 . particles having neither the first marker nor the second marker are conveyed through a third exit channel 177 . the present invention has been described relative to an illustrative embodiment . since certain changes may be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention , it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense . it is also to be understood that the following claims are to cover all generic and specific features of the invention described herein , and all statements of the scope of the invention which , as a matter of language , might be said to fall therebetween . | US-201113158960-A |
disclosed is a probe of a scanning probe microscope having a sharp tip and an increased electric characteristic by fabricating a planar type of field effect transistor and manufacturing a conductive carbon nanotube on the planar type field effect transistor . to achieve this , the present invention provides a method for fabricating a probe having a field effect transistor channel structure including fabricating a field effect transistor , making preparations for growing a carbon nanotube at a top portion of a gate electrode of the field effect transistor , and generating the carbon nanotube at the top portion of the gate electrode of the field effect transistor . | an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will hereinafter be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings . a method for fabricating a probe having an fet channel structure according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to accompanying drawings . fig5 a to fig5 i show a process diagram of a method for fabricating a probe having an fet channel structure according to an embodiment of the present invention . the method for fabricating a probe according to an embodiment of the present invention includes generating a field - effect transistor , making preparations for fabricating a carbon nanotube , and generating the carbon nanotube . as shown in fig5 a , a mask film 20 is formed on a silicon substrate 10 , a photoresist is coated thereon , a mask ( not shown ) on which a source s and a drain d are printed is provided thereon , and an exposure process , a development process , and an etching process are performed . in this instance , silicon is exemplarily used for the silicon substrate 10 for manufacturing the field effect transistor , and without being restricted to this , a p - type silicon substrate can be used when an n - type impurity is used and an n - type silicon substrate can be used when p - type impurity is used depending on the compound semiconductor substrate or channel types . in addition , the mask film 20 is used by using a silicon oxide layer ( sio 2 ) or a silicon nitride layer ( si 3 n 4 ) or stacking them , and in the case of attempting to use the silicon oxide layer , it is possible to oxidize a silicon layer on the substrate surface and thus form a silicon oxide layer . as shown in fig5 b , a source s region and a drain d region are formed by providing the mask film 20 on which shapes of the source s and the drain d are patterned to the silicon substrate 10 and applying ion implantation to the source s region and the drain d region . the ion implantation technique ionizes a material to be doped , accelerates the material to have greatly increased kinetic energy , and forcibly implants it into the surface of the silicon substrate 10 , and it may additionally use a diffusion process if needed . in this instance , the source region 31 and the drain region 32 are doped with a p - type impurity when the silicon substrate 10 is an n - type , and they are doped with an n - type impurity when the silicon substrate 10 is a p - type . as shown in fig5 c , when the ion implantation or ion diffusion process is finished , the mask film 20 is removed by etching . when the above - noted process is finished , as shown in fig5 c , the source region 31 and the drain region 32 are formed on the silicon substrate and a channel region 33 is provided between the regions 31 and 32 . an oxide layer 40 to be used as an insulation layer is formed on the silicon substrate 10 in which the source region 31 , the drain region 32 , and the channel region 33 are formed . the oxide layer 40 in this case is controlled to grow somewhat thick in consideration of potential pinholes . as shown in fig5 d , when the above - described process is finished , the source 31 region and the drain region 32 are provided below the oxide layer 40 , which is illustrated by dotted lines . in addition , as shown in fig5 e , in order to form a thin oxide layer at the gate after having formed the thick oxide layer 40 , the gate is etched and a thin gate oxide layer 45 is formed on the gate - etched position . in order to connect an electrode to the source region 31 and the drain region 32 , a mask ( not shown ) in which a pattern of connecting an electrode to a source and a drain is printed is provided thereon , and an exposure process , a development process , and an etching process are performed . as a result , the pattern 60 for connecting an electrode to a source and a drain is formed . next , as shown in fig5 f , a source s electrode , a drain d electrode , and a gate electrode 71 , 72 , and 80 are formed . in this instance , the source electrode 71 , the drain electrode 72 , and the gate electrode 80 can be made of various types of materials , and it is desirable in this case to use metal . further , the electrodes can be formed by forming a polysilicon layer and sputtering a metal layer of titanium ( ti ) or cobalt ( co ) on the polysilicon layer , and it is also possible to form a metal film on the polysilicon layer and perform rapid thermal annealing thereon , and thereby form metal silicide films such as a titanium silicide ( tisi 2 ) film or a cobalt silicide layer , and use them as electrodes . when the metallic electrodes 71 , 72 , and 80 are formed , for example , when aluminum al is used to form the electrodes , aluminum is deposited on the front side of the silicon substrate in which the pattern 60 of the source and the drain is formed by using one of deposition methods in a vacuum state , and the electrode pattern shown in fig5 f is then formed through an etching process . in addition , when the electrodes 71 , 72 , and 80 using a polysilicon layer or metal silicide are formed , a nitride layer is formed on the front side of the silicon substrate in which the pattern 60 of the source and drain electrodes is formed , a predetermined mask pattern is formed on the nitride layer , the nitride layer is selectively etched by using the mask pattern as a mask to generate a concave groove in the form of the source , drain , and gate electrodes , polysilicon is deposited in the electrode groove on the front side of the nitride layer by using a cvd method , and planarization is performed by using a chemical mechanical polishing ( cmp ) process to thereby form the source , drain , and gate electrodes . in this instance , when the electrodes 71 , 72 , and 80 using metal silicide are formed , the metal layer is deposited on the polysilicon layer once more and a heat treatment is performed thereon to form metal silicide , and planarization is performed by a chemical mechanical polishing process , thereby forming the source , drain , and gate electrodes . second , preparation for fabricating a carbon nanotube on the silicon substrate in which the source , drain , and gate electrodes are formed will be described . as shown in fig5 g , a seed electrode 81 , for forming a carbon nanotube on the top end of the gate electrode 80 formed on the silicon substrate , is formed . the seed electrode 81 may not necessarily be additionally formed , and the gate electrode 80 may be used as the seed electrode depending on the case . the seed electrode 81 functions as a seed for generating the carbon nanotube with high vertical alignment , and corresponding seed material is formed according to the technique of compounding a carbon nanotube . materials used for the seed will be described later . when the seed electrode 81 is formed on the silicon substrate as described above , as shown in fig5 h , a cantilever is manufactured through an etching process for removing undesired portions from the probe or a cutting process using diamond wires . finally , generating the carbon nanotube when the preparation for fabricating the carbon nanotube is finished will be described . as shown in fig5 i , a carbon nanotube 90 is formed on the seed electrode 81 of the cantilever . an externally formed carbon nanotube can be provided as the carbon nanotube 90 through a junction , or the carbon nanotube 90 can be directly grown on the seed electrode 81 . the carbon nanotube 90 can also be manufactured in various manners in addition to the above - noted methods . the methods for growing the carbon nanotube include an electrical discharge method , a laser deposition method , and a plasma deposition method , and it is desirable to use the chemical vapor deposition ( cvd ) method for allowing growth at a low temperature , providing high vertical alignment , and growing a high - quality carbon nanotube by a vapor reaction by using catalytic metal and carbonic gas . in this instance , the catalytic metal used as a seed material is iron —( fe ) based , cobalt —( co ) based , nickel —( ni ) based , or titanium —( ti ) based . as to the method for growing the carbon nanotube by using the cvd method , the catalytic metal is deposited to a thickness of several tens of nm on the top of the seed electrode 81 , and nanoparticles are formed by using electronic beams or using the thermal decomposition method . as to the process for forming nanoparticles by using electronic beams in the case of nickel ( ni ), electronic beams are applied to a nickel film deposited on the top of the seed electrode 81 so that the nickel film is patterned with the size of several tens to several hundreds of nanometers , and nickel dots ( particles ) of a nanometer size are thus formed . in addition , as to the process for forming nanoparticles through thermal decomposition , a metal layer is deposited as a catalytic metal on the top of the seed electrode 81 , and a heat treatment is performed in an ammonia ( nh 3 ) atmosphere so that the catalytic metal is formed to be nanoparticles of a fine size . when the catalytic metal is formed into nanoparticles , the cantilever is charged in the atmosphere so that the carbon nanotube is controlled to grow while the carbonic gas such as c 2 h 2 , ch 4 , c 2 h 4 , and co is supplied . in this instance , in order to directly generate catalytic metal in the nanoparticle shape without a deposition process on metal thin films , fe 2 o 3 is formed on the top of the seed electrode 81 . the above - noted fe 2 o 3 is formed by applying the solution in which fe ( no 3 ) 3 is dissolved in methanol solvent to the top of the seed electrode 81 , charging a cantilever in a reactor , and performing thermal decomposition . a method for reading electrical characteristics of a substance such as an information storage medium by using a probe with the fet channel configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to fig6 . as shown in fig6 , when a cantilever with a probe having a carbon nanotube fabricated according to an embodiment of the present invention is located on the surface 11 of a substance , electrical signals formed on the surface 11 thereof are applied to the seed electrode 81 and agate electrode 80 through the carbon nanotube 90 . the carbon nanotube 90 has excellent electrical conductivity , and hence the electrical signals are applied almost without loss to the seed electrode 81 and the gate electrode 80 . the gate channel region 33 is varied by the applied electrical signals , and the current flowing through the source s and the drain d is changed . by measuring this change , the electric characteristic of the surface 11 of the substance is measured . while this invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be practical exemplary embodiments , it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments , but , on the contrary , is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims . | US-31760305-A |
various embodiments of the invention include products and parts including a frictional damping means and methods of making and using the same . | the following description of the embodiment ( s ) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention , its application , or uses . referring to fig1 - 16 , one embodiment of the invention includes a product or part 500 having a frictional damping means . the frictional damping means may be used in a variety of applications including , but not limited to , applications where it is desirable to reduce noise associated with a vibrating part or reduce the vibration amplitude and / or duration of a part that is struck , dynamically loaded , excited , or set in motion . in one embodiment the frictional damping means may include an interface boundary conducive to frictionally damping a vibrating part . in one embodiment the damping means may include frictional surfaces 502 constructed and arranged to move relative to each other and in frictional contact , so that vibration of the part is dissipated by frictional damping due to the frictional movement of the surfaces 502 against each other . according to various illustrative embodiments of the invention , frictional damping may be achieved by the movement of the frictional surfaces 502 against each other . the movement of frictional surfaces 502 against each other may include the movement of : surfaces of the body 506 of the part against each other ; a surface of the body 506 of the part against a surface of the insert 504 ; a surface of the body 506 of the part against the layer 520 ; a surface of the insert 504 against the layer 520 ; a surface of the body 506 of the part against the particles 514 or fibers ; a surface of the insert 504 against the particles 514 or fibers ; or by frictional movement of the particles 514 or fibers against each other or against remaining binder material . in embodiments wherein the frictional surface 502 is provided as a surface of the body 506 or the insert 504 or a layer 520 over one of the same , the frictional surface 502 may have a minimal area over which frictional contact may occur that may extend in a first direction a minimum distance of 0 . 1 mm and / or may extend in a second ( generally traverse ) direction a minimum distance of 0 . 1 mm . in one embodiment the insert 504 may be an annular body and the area of frictional contact on a frictional surface 502 may extend in an annular direction a distance ranging from about 20 mm to about 1000 mm and in a transverse direction ranging from about 10 mm to about 75 mm . the frictional surface 502 may be provided in a variety of embodiments , for example , as illustrated in fig1 - 16 . referring again to fig1 , in another embodiment of the invention one or more of the outer surfaces 522 , 524 of the insert 504 or surfaces 526 , 528 of the body 506 of the part 500 may include a relatively rough surface including a plurality of peaks 510 and valleys 512 to enhance the frictional damping of the part . in one embodiment , the surface of the insert 504 or the body 506 may be abraded by sandblasting , glass bead blasting , water jet blasting , chemical etching , machining or the like . as shown in fig2 , in one embodiment one frictional surface 502 ( for example extending from points a - b ) may be a first surface of the body 506 of the part 500 positioned adjacent to a second frictional surface 502 ( for example extending from points c - d ) of the body 506 . the body 506 may include a relatively narrow slot - like feature 508 formed therein so that at least two of the frictional surfaces 502 defining the slot - like feature 508 may engage each other for frictional movement during vibration of the part to provide frictional damping of the part 500 . in various embodiments of the invention , the slot - like feature 508 may be formed by machining the cast part , or by using a sacrificial casting insert that may be removed after the casting by , for example , etching or machining . in one embodiment a sacrificial insert may be used that can withstand the temperature of the molten metal during casting but is more easily machined than the cast metal . each frictional surface 502 may have a plurality of peaks 510 and a plurality of valleys 512 . the depth as indicated by line v of the valleys 512 may vary with embodiments . in various embodiments , the average of the depth v of the valleys 512 may range from about 1 μm - 300 μm , 50 μm - 260 μm , 100 μm - 160 μm or variations of these ranges . however , for all cases there is local contact between the opposing frictional surfaces 502 during component operation for frictional damping to occur . in another embodiment of the invention the damping means or frictional surface 502 may be provided by particles 514 or fibers provided on at least one face of the insert 504 or a surface of the body 506 of the part 500 . the particles 514 may have an irregular shape ( e . g ., not smooth ) to enhance frictional damping , as illustrated in fig1 . one embodiment of the invention may include a layer 520 including the particles 514 or fibers which may be bonded to each other or to a surface of the body 506 of the part or a surface of the insert 504 due to the inherent bonding properties of the particles 514 or fibers . for example , the bonding properties of the particles 514 or fibers may be such that the particles 514 or fibers may bind to each other or to the surfaces of the body 506 or the insert 504 under compression . in another embodiment of the invention , the particles 514 or the fibers may be treated to provide a coating thereon or to provide functional groups attached thereto to bind the particles together or attach the particles to at least one of a surface of the body 506 or a surface of the insert 504 . in another embodiment of the invention , the particles 514 or fibers may be embedded in at least one of the body 506 of the part or the insert 504 to provide the frictional surface 502 ( fig5 - 6 ). in embodiments wherein at least a portion of the part 500 is manufactured such that the insert 504 and / or the particles 514 or fibers are exposed to the temperature of a molten material such as in casting , the insert 504 and / or particles 514 or fibers may be made from materials capable of resisting flow or resisting significant erosion during the manufacturing . for example , the insert 504 and / or the particles 514 or fibers may include refractory materials capable of resisting flow or that do not significantly erode at temperatures above 1100 ° f ., above 2400 ° f ., or above 2700 ° f . when molten material , such as metal , is cast around the insert 504 and / or the particles 514 , the insert 504 or the particles 514 should not be wet by the molten material so that the molten material does not bond to the insert 504 or layer 520 at locations wherein a frictional surface 502 for providing frictional damping is desired . illustrative examples of suitable particles 514 or fibers include , but are not limited to , particles or fibers including silica , alumina , graphite with clay , silicon carbide , silicon nitride , cordierite ( magnesium - iron - aluminum silicate ), mullite ( aluminum silicate ), zirconia ( zirconium oxide ), phyllosilicates , or other high - temperature - resistant particles . in one embodiment of the invention the particles 514 may have a length along the longest dimension thereof ranging from about 1 μm - 350 μm , or 10 μm - 250 μm . in embodiments wherein the part 500 is made using a process wherein the insert 504 and / or the particles 514 or fibers are not subjected to relatively high temperatures associated with molten materials , the insert 504 and / or particles 514 or fibers may be made from a variety of other materials including , but not limited to , non - refractory polymeric materials , ceramics , composites , wood or other materials suitable for frictional damping . for example , such non - refractory materials may also be used ( in additional to or as a substitute for refractory materials ) when two portions of the body 506 of the part 500 are held together mechanically by a locking mechanism , or by fasteners , or by adhesives , or by welding 518 , as illustrated in fig4 . in another embodiment of the invention , the layer 520 may be a coating over the body 506 of the part or the insert 504 . the coating may include a plurality of particles 514 which may be bonded to each other and / or to the surface of the body 506 of the part or the insert 504 by an inorganic or organic binder 516 ( fig3 - 4 , 9 ) or other bonding materials . illustrative examples of suitable binders include , but are not limited to , epoxy resins , phosphoric acid binding agents , calcium aluminates , sodium silicates , wood flour , or clays . in another embodiment of the invention the particles 514 may be held together and / or adhered to the body 506 or the insert 504 by an inorganic binder . in one embodiment , the coating may be deposited on the insert 504 or body 506 as a liquid dispersed mixture of alumina - silicate - based , organically bonded refractory mix . in another embodiment , the coating may include at least one of alumina or silica particles , mixed with a lignosulfonate binder , cristobalite ( sio 2 ), quartz , or calcium lignosulfonate . the calcium lignosulfonate may serve as a binder . in one embodiment , the coating may include ironkote . in one embodiment , a liquid coating may be deposited on a portion of the insert and may include high temperature ladle kote 310b . in another embodiment , the coating may include at least one of clay , al 2 o 3 , sio 2 , a graphite and clay mixture , silicon carbide , silicon nitride , cordierite ( magnesium - iron - aluminum silicate ), mullite ( aluminum silicate ), zirconia ( zirconium oxide ), or phyllosilicates . in one embodiment , the coating may comprise a fiber such as ceramic or mineral fibers . when the layer 520 including particles 514 or fibers is provided over the insert 504 or the body 506 of the part the thickness l ( fig3 ) of the layer 520 , particles 514 and / or fibers may vary . in various embodiments , the thickness l of the layer 520 , particles 514 and / or fibers may range from about 1 μm - 400 μm , 10 μm - 400 μm , 30 μm - 300 μm , 30 μm - 40 μm , 40 μm - 100 μm , 100 μm - 120 μm , 120 μm - 200 μm , 200 μm - 300 μm , 200 μm - 250 μm , or variations of these ranges . in yet another embodiment of the invention the particles 514 or fibers may be temporarily held together and / or to the surface of the insert 504 by a fully or partially sacrificial coating . the sacrificial coating may be consumed by molten metal or burnt off when metal is cast around or over the insert 504 . the particles 514 or fibers are left behind trapped between the body 506 of the cast part and the insert 504 to provide a layer 520 consisting of the particles 514 or fibers or consisting essentially of the particles 514 or fibers . the layer 520 may be provided over the entire insert 504 or only over a portion thereof . in one embodiment of the invention the insert 504 may include a tab 534 ( fig3 ). for example , the insert 504 may include an annular body portion and a tab 534 extending radially inward or outward therefrom . in one embodiment of the invention at least one wettable surface 536 of the tab 534 does not include a layer 520 including particles 514 or fibers , or a wettable material such as graphite is provided over the tab 534 , so that the cast metal is bonded to the wettable surface 536 to attach the insert 504 to the body 506 of the part 500 but still allow for frictional damping over the remaining insert surface which is not bonded to the casting . in one embodiment of the invention at least a portion of the insert 504 is treated or the properties of the insert 504 are such that molten metal will not wet or bond to that portion of the insert 504 upon solidification of the molten metal . according to one embodiment of the invention at least one of the body 506 of the part or the insert 504 includes a metal , for example , but not limited to , aluminum , steel , stainless steel , cast iron , any of a variety of other alloys , or metal matrix composite including abrasive particles . in one embodiment of the invention the insert 504 may include a material such as a metal having a higher melting point than the melting point of the molten material being cast around a portion thereof . in one embodiment the insert 504 may have a minimum average thickness of 0 . 2 mm and / or a minimum width of 0 . 1 mm and / or a minimum length of 0 . 1 mm . in another embodiment the insert 504 may have a minimum average thickness of 0 . 2 mm and / or a minimum width of 2 mm and / or a minimum length of 5 mm . in other embodiments the insert 504 may have a thickness ranging from about 0 . 1 - 20 mm , 0 . 1 - 6 . 0 mm , or 1 . 0 - 2 . 5 mm , or ranges therebetween . referring now to fig7 - 8 , again the frictional surface 502 may have a plurality of peaks 510 and a plurality of valleys 512 . the depth as indicated by line v of the valleys 512 may vary with embodiments . in various embodiments , the average of the depth v of the valleys 512 may range from about 1 μm - 300 μm , 50 μm - 260 μm , 100 μm - 160 μm or variations of these ranges . however , for all cases there is local contact between the body 506 and the insert 504 during component operation for frictional damping to occur . in other embodiments of the invention improvements in the frictional damping may be achieved by adjusting the thickness ( l , as shown in fig3 ) of the layer 520 , or by adjusting the relative position of opposed frictional surfaces 502 or the average depth of the valleys 512 ( for example , as illustrated in fig2 ). in one embodiment the insert 504 is not pre - loaded or under pre - tension or held in place by tension . in one embodiment the insert 504 is not a spring . another embodiment of the invention includes a process of casting a material comprising a metal around an insert 504 with the proviso that the frictional surface 502 portion of the insert used to provide frictional damping is not captured and enclosed by a sand core that is placed in the casting mold . in various embodiments the insert 504 or the layer 520 includes at least one frictional surface 502 or two opposite friction surfaces 502 that are completely enclosed by the body 506 of the part . in another embodiment the layer 520 including the particles 514 or fibers that may be completely enclosed by the body 506 of the part or completely enclosed by the body 506 and the insert 504 , and wherein at least one of the body 506 or the insert 504 comprises a metal or consists essentially of a metal . in one embodiment of the invention the layer 520 and / or insert 504 does not include or is not carbon paper or cloth . referring again to fig1 - 4 , in various embodiments of the invention the insert 504 may include a first face 522 and an opposite second face 524 and the body 506 of the part may include a first inner face 526 adjacent the first face 522 of the insert 504 constructed to be complementary thereto , for example nominally parallel thereto . the body 506 of the part includes a second inner face 528 adjacent to the second face 524 of the insert 504 constructed to be complementary thereto , for example parallel thereto . the body 506 may include a first outer face 530 overlying the first face 522 of the insert 504 constructed to be complementary thereto , for example parallel thereto . the body 506 may include a first outer face 532 overlying the second face 524 of the insert 504 constructed to be complementary thereto , for example parallel thereto . however , in other embodiments of the invention the outer faces 530 , 532 of the body 506 are not complementary to associated faces 522 , 524 of the insert 504 . when the damping means is provided by a narrow slot - like feature 508 formed in the body 506 of the part 500 , the slot - like feature 508 may be defined in part by a first inner face 526 and a second inner face 528 which may be constructed to be complementary to each other , for example parallel to each other . in other embodiments the surfaces 526 and 528 ; 526 and 522 ; or 528 and 524 are mating surfaces but not parallel to each other . referring to fig1 - 12 , in one embodiment of the invention the insert 504 may be an inlay wherein a first face 522 thereof is not enclosed by the body 506 of the part . the insert 504 may include a tang or tab 534 which may be bent downward as shown in fig1 . in one embodiment of the invention a wettable surface 536 may be provided that does not include a layer 520 including particles 514 or fibers , or a wettable material such as graphite is provided over the tab 534 , so that the cast metal is bonded to the wettable surface 536 to attach the insert 504 to the body of the part but still allow for frictional damping on the non - bonded surfaces . a layer 520 including particles 514 or fibers may underlie the portion of the second face 524 of the insert 504 not used to make the bent tab 534 . in another embodiment the insert 504 includes a tab 534 which may be formed by machining a portion of the first face 522 of the insert 504 ( fig1 ). the tab 534 may include a wettable surface 536 having cast metal bonded thereto to attach the insert 504 to the body of the part but still allow for friction damping by way of the non - bonded surfaces . a layer 520 including particles 514 or fibers may underlie the entire second face 524 or a portion thereof . in other embodiments of the invention all surfaces including the tabs 534 may be non - wettable , for example by way of a coating 520 thereon , and features of the body portion 506 such as , but not limited to , a shoulder 537 may be used to hold the insert 504 in place . referring now to fig1 , one embodiment of the invention may include a part 500 having a body portion 506 and an insert 504 enclosed by the body part 506 . the insert 504 may include through holes formed therein so that a stake or post 540 extends into or through the insert 504 . referring to fig1 , which is a sectional view of fig1 taken along line 14 - 14 , in one embodiment of the invention a layer 520 including a plurality of particles 514 or fibers ( not shown ) may be provided over at least a portion of the insert 504 to provide a frictional surface 502 and to prevent bonding thereto by cast metal . the insert 504 including the layer 520 may be placed in a casting mold and molten metal may be poured into the casting mold and solidified to form the post 540 extending through the insert 504 . an inner surface 542 defining the through hole of the insert 504 may be free of the layer 520 or may include a wettable material thereon so that the post 540 is bonded to the insert 504 . alternatively , in another embodiment the post 504 may not be bonded the insert 504 at the inner surface 542 . the insert 504 may include a feature such as , but not limited to , a shoulder 505 and / or the post 540 may include a feature such as , but not limited to , a shoulder 537 to hold the insert in place . referring now to fig1 , in another embodiment , the insert may be provided as an inlay in a casting including a body portion 506 and may include a post 540 extending into or through the insert 504 . the insert 504 may be bonded to the post 540 to hold the insert in place and still allow for frictional damping . in one embodiment of the invention the insert 504 may include a recess defined by an inner surface 542 of the insert 504 and a post 540 may extend into the insert 504 but not extend through the insert 504 . in one embodiment the post 504 may not be bonded to the insert 504 at the inner surface 542 . the insert 504 may include a feature such as , but not limited to , a shoulder 505 and / or the post 540 may include a feature such as , but not limited to , a shoulder 537 to hold the insert in place . referring now to fig1 , in another embodiment of the invention , an insert 504 or substrate may be provided over an outer surface 530 of the body portion 506 . a layer 520 may or may not be provided between the insert 504 and the outer surface 530 . the insert 504 may be constructed and arranged with through holes formed therethrough or a recess therein so that cast metal may extend into or through the insert 504 to form a post 540 to hold the insert in position and still allow for frictional damping . the post 540 may or may not be bonded to the insert 504 as desired . the post 540 may extend through the insert 504 and join another portion of the body 506 if desired . the frictional damping means as described herein may be used in a variety of applications , for example , in automotive parts such as brake rotors , brackets , pulleys , brake drums , transmission housings , gears , engines and engine components and other parts may undergo unwanted or undesirable vibrations , and may even produce noise that is transmitted into the passenger compartment of a vehicle . the frictional damping means may also be used to address undesirable vibrations in parts or components including , but not limited to , sporting equipment , housing appliances , manufacturing equipment such as lathes , mill / grinding / drilling machines , earth moving equipment , and other non - automotive applications , and components that are subject to dynamic loads and vibration . fig1 - 32 are illustrative examples of such applications . referring now to fig1 , one embodiment of the invention includes a product which may include an electric drive motor housing including a body portion 506 formed from a cast metal . an insert 504 may be included in the housing as an inlay , or completely enclosed in a wall of the housing . the insert 504 may include tabs 534 as desired . the body portion 506 may be bonded to the tabs 534 as described above . referring now to fig1 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may be a transmission housing including inserts 504 which may be completely enclosed by a wall of the transmission housing or may be provided as an inlay in the wall of the transmission housing according to various embodiments of the invention . referring now to fig1 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may be a combustion exhaust gas manifold including inserts 504 which may be completely enclosed or may be provided as an inlay in a wall forming the combustion engine exhaust gas manifold . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may be a combustion engine cylinder head including inserts 504 which may be completely enclosed or provided as an inlay in a wall of the cylinder head . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may be a differential case including inserts 504 which may be completely enclosed or provided as an inlay in a wall of the differential case . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may be an engine block including inserts 504 which may be completely enclosed or provided as an inlay in a wall of the engine block . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may be a rear end housing for a rear wheel drive vehicle including at least one insert 504 which may be completely enclosed or may be provided as an inlay in a wall of the rear end housing . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may include a head of a golf club iron which may include an insert 504 therein for providing frictional damping according to one embodiment of the invention . the golf club may include a shaft attached to the head and the insert 504 may be provided in the shaft in addition to or alternatively to providing the insert 504 in the head of the golf club . the insert 504 may provide a frictional damping means to reduce vibration of the head and / or the shaft when the club strikes a golf ball or the ground . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a product 500 which may be in the form of a metal baseball bat including an insert 504 as a frictional damping means . the frictional damping means may reduce the vibration of the baseball bat upon striking an object such as a baseball . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a stabilizer ( s ) 600 for an archery bow 602 which may comprise a metal and may include a frictional damping means such as an insert 504 in the body portion 506 of the stabilizer 600 to reduce the vibration of the bow and / or the bow string ( not shown ) which may occur when shooting an arrow with the bow . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a shaft 500 including a frictional damping means which may include an insert 504 as a central core and concentric metal layer as a body portion 506 . the insert 504 and the body portion 506 may be keyed to each other so that they rotate together . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a shaft 500 having a central metal core as a body portion 506 and a frictional damping means which may include a concentric insert 504 surrounding the body portion 506 . the insert 504 and the body portion 506 may be keyed to each other so that they rotate together . referring now to fig2 , one embodiment of the invention may include a bearing 500 including a frictional damping means which may include a cylindrical insert 504 surrounded by an inner and outer concentric body portion 506 which may be made of a metal . the bearing 500 may have a bore 604 extending therethrough to receive a shaft therein . a shaft rotating in the bearing 500 may have a destructive resonance frequency which could result in damage to the part in which the bearing 500 is located . the insert 504 provides a frictional damping means to dissipate undesirable vibration or osculation of the shaft . referring now to fig3 , another embodiment of the invention may include a bearing 500 including a frictional damping means which may include three lobe inserts 504 which may be positioned at 60 degrees with respect to each other or at an equal distance from each other . the inserts 504 may serve to reduce the vibration or osculation of a shaft spinning in the bore 604 of the bearing . similarly , as illustrated in fig3 , another embodiment may include a bearing 500 having five lobe inserts 504 equally spaced from each other . referring now to fig3 , one embodiment of the invention may include a vehicle brake rotor 500 which may include a body portion 506 which may be a brake rotor cheek 606 having a first flat face 608 and an opposite flat face 610 for engagement with a brake pad . the brake rotor includes a frictional damping means which may include an insert 504 received in the brake cheek 606 . the vehicle brake rotor 500 may include a hub portion 612 attached to the cheek 606 . the hub portion 612 may include a central aperture 614 and a plurality of bolt holes 616 for attaching the brake rotor to a vehicle drive system . another embodiment of the invention includes a machine such as a stamping machine , band saw , drill or the like which includes a wall comprising a metal which is vibrated during operation of the machine , and wherein the wall includes a friction damping means including but not limited to an insert , as described above . when the term “ over ,” “ overlying ,” “ overlies ,” “ under ,” “ underlying ,” or “ underlies ” is used herein to describe the relative position of a first layer or component with respect to a second layer or component such shall mean the first layer or component is directly on and in direct contact with the second layer or component or that additional layers or components may be interposed between the first layer or component and the second layer or component . the above description of embodiments of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and , thus , variations thereof are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention . | US-2596708-A |
controlling a fermentation plant working with a horizontal fermentor which operates per the regenerative flow process is particularly difficult , if there is a high proportion of dry substance . biogenic decomposition in the fermentor was thus far influenced merely by recycling a portion of the ferment from the outlet to the fermentor entrance . according to the invention , the process of control is enhanced by the measurement of the ph and the dry substance portion at various points in the fermentor and controlling the fermentor on the basis of these measurements in such a way that the measurement data lie within certain established ranges . it is additionally possible , moreover , to adjust the ph and the portion of dry substance in the fermentor by the introduction of press water laden with methanobacteria from the ferment at inoculation points in the fermentor . | referring to fig1 the delivered biogenic wastes are separately collected household garbage , garden refuse , as well as rubbish from business enterprises with a large portion of wastes of biogenic origin , such as nurseries , vegetable markets , restaurants , etc ., and are stored temporarily in a receiving bin ( not shown ). from there , they pass through sorting and chopping stations ( not shown ) to arrive finally in a feed tank 1 , from which the biogenic material to be fermented is delivered by metering through a feed pipe 2 to the entrance 3 of a heated anaerobic fermentor 4 . acidification takes place in the feed tank , the ph of the fresh material being adjusted to approximately 5 - 6 . this can also be promoted by use of a supplementary hydrolysis unit . a mixing and transporting segment 2 &# 39 ; is provided in the feed pipe 2 , which operates preferably with a transporting and mixing worm . several impeller blades , mounted on a central shaft 6 , are moved gradually by a drive 5 . the central shaft 6 passes through the entire length of the fermentor 4 , the bearing for the opposite end being located at 7 . the material to be fermented , moving continuously forward in regenerative flow operation due the material pushed in after it at the entrance , reaches the fermentor outlet 8 , where already largely decomposed biogenic wastes can be metered into and mixed with fresh material from the feed tank in the feed pipe 2 by means of a feedback coupling 9 . the extensively biologically degraded material is then passed through a pipe 10 to a press 11 , where the water is extracted under pressure from the already fermented material . through a drainpipe 12 , the extensively biologically decomposed material finally reaches a tank ( not shown ) where aerobic rotting takes place . the completely decomposed material will ultimately be marketed as high quality compost . the liquid components are removed by means of a separation filter 13 at the outlet of the press 11 . this liquid component , the press water , is heavily laden with bacteria , primarily methanobacteria . the press water passes through pipes 14 into an press water tank 15 . the excess press water is sent to a press water preparation unit ( not shown ) by means of a pump 16 . there , the press water is further decomposed by means of a special anaerobic filter system , with the production of additional biogas . another part of the press water reaches various inoculation points 20 of the fermentor 4 over control tubes 18 . near the inoculation points 20 are also measurement points 21 . at these locations it is possible to determine the ph , the temperature and the moisture content of the fermentor contents in each region . via data lines 22 it is possible to send these data to a central evaluation unit . a further branch 18 &# 39 ; of the control tubes 18 extends into the region of the transporting and mixing segment 2 &# 39 ; of the feed pipe 2 . an inoculation point 20 &# 39 ; and a measurement point 21 &# 39 ; are arranged there , too . this allows the fresh material to be charged with bacteria already by means of the press water and adjusted to an optimal ph . the narrower the limits of ph already at the entrance to the fermentor 4 , the fewer the control interventions required subsequently . the measurement data from the mixing and transport segment 2 &# 39 ; are likewise sent over the data line 22 to the central evaluation unit . the course of the invented process will now be described below . the composition of the fresh material in the feed tank 1 , consisting of biogenic wastes , already separated from materials which are not biologically degradable , like glass , metal and plastics , and already chopped , cannot be influenced . it arrives through the feed pipe 2 at the entrance 3 of the anaerobic fermentor 4 . the fresh material is preheated already in the feed pipe 2 to a temperature particularly favorable to the growth of methanobacteria , preferably to temperatures between 30 ° and 60 ° c . to enrich the fresh material with material already enriched with bacteria , already extensively biologically degraded material from the outlet 8 of the fermentor 4 is inoculated in an obvious manner into the feed pipe 2 by means of a feedback coupling 9 . this material at the entrance to the fermentor 4 is relatively dry and consequently with a high dry substance content and relatively coarse , with particle magnitudes of up to approximately 10 cm . the material in the fermentor does not of course flow by itself . it can merely be forced through the fermentor in true regenerative flow operation by the material pushed in after it . the ph , the temperature and the moisture content are determined at a first monitoring point . 21 at the entrance to the fermentor 4 . typical readings at this location are ph 7 . 2 to 6 . 5 , thus in the neutral to slightly acid range . the ph is preferably adjusted to about 7 . at the fermentor outlet the ph is about 8 . 4 to 7 . 5 , that is to say , in the basic range , preferably at approximately ph 8 . for adjustment of the ph there are various means available . near the entrance , the ph can be appropriately adjusted by way of the mixing ratio of fresh material from the feed tank 1 to already extensively decomposed putrefied matter from the anaerobic fermentor 4 via the feedback coupling 9 . it is thereby possible to raise the ph by adding a larger quantity of putrefied matter , or to lower it by reducing that quantity . a further option for influencing the ph is to lower the amount of fresh material added . this prolongs the time spent in the fermentor . the result is that the methanobacteria have more time to propagate , particularly near the nutrient - rich entrance , thus producing a slight increase in ph near the entrance , though the ph will also rise somewhat more sharply at the outlet than with the usual rate of throughput . this method is used , when the moisture content near the entrance already lies in the upper range . if the proportion of dry matter is high but the ph at the entrance relatively low , there is also in this region the option of introducing bacterially laden press water from the press water tank 5 into the fermentor 4 through the control tube 18 . this will increase the density of the methanobacteria and increase the humidity , accelerating the rate of bacterial decomposition . increasing the addition of material at the entrance will obviously also increase the rate of throughput everywhere throughout the entire fermentor and in the same way . it is consequently also possible to prevent the ph at the outlet from rising above a desired value by increasing the throughput rate . it is can usually be assumed that the ph will rise continuously within a permissible range during passage of the material through the fermentor , but deviations can occasionally occur , especially due to the premature dying off of the methanobacteria . this will then lead to a change in the ph . in the invented process , the ph is for that reason determined at several points and corrections implemented directly at the corresponding site . this takes place in turn by the addition of press water through the control tubes 18 . preferable is the attempt to keep the ph of the charging material , that is to say , the fresh material , or the mixture of fresh material from the feed tank 1 and putrefied matter from the outlet of the ferment already within the narrowest limits possible . this will reduce the number of corrective interventions . per the invention , press water is consequently introduced already into the transporting and mixing segment 2 &# 39 ; of the feed pipe 2 . via the branch 18 &# 39 ; of the control tube 18 , this reaches the inoculation point 20 &# 39 ; right next to the monitoring point 21 &# 39 ; a neutralization favorable to the propagation of methanobacteria is scarcely achieved while the fresh material is acid but the press water basic . this could not be achieved by the addition of fresh water , or would require much larger quantities , which in the case of the invention is to be avoided . finally , the course of the temperature inside the fermentor 4 is monitored . to prevent the temperature from being impermissibly lowered by control interventions in the form of press water addition , it is desirable to heat the control lines 18 to a temperature at least near that prevailing inside the fermentor by means of a heating element 19 . the heating element can be an electric heater or even a heat exchanger . even the fermentor itself , which is heated by heating lines ( not shown ), can be warmed in segments . this allows the temperature throughout the charge in the fermentor to be varied to achieve the optimal conditions of growth for the methanobacteria . although the production of biogas is an essential task in the case of such a fermentation plant , it will not be further taken up here . the fermentor must obviously be equipped with appropriate outlets for the biogas developed inside the fermentor . the controlled course of ph and temperature , as well as the optimal adjustment of the moisture content , leads to the greatest possible production of biogas , because the living conditions for methanobacteria are optimal . a significant feature of the invented process is also that the material inside the anaerobic fermentor 4 is not mixed by an agitator , as in the known process , but merely turned over slowly in stages . the result is merely that the methane and co 2 gases liberated are better able to escape . this method however prevents the still barely degraded fill from reaching the fermentor outlet . the atmosphere which is unusually dry for such processes , without a continuous liquid phase in the fermentor , renders the transport of viruses or bacteria via the liquid phase impossible during the brief period from the entrance to the outlet of the fermentor and thus prevents contamination of the arising compost . a throughput rate of approximately 20 days , astonishingly high for such fermentation plants , is achieved by optimizing the conditions inside the container . although the invention has been shown and described with respect to an illustrative embodiment thereof , it should be appreciated that the foregoing and various other changes , omissions and additions in the form and detail thereof may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as delineated in the claims . | US-23034094-A |
the purified strain of lactobacillus acidophilus cncm / i - 1492 when administered alone or in combination with another lactobacillus acidophilus strain and lactobacillus casei strain , has a beneficial effect on the cholesterol blood level in mammals . it also strenghtens the immune system , facilitates the absorption of nutrients and stimulates the intestinal flora . such strains also neutralize side effects caused by antibiotics . the invention concerns the specific strain l . a . i - 1492 , a ferment comprising l . a . i - 1492 , l . a . and l . c . strains , a dairy product obtained by this ferment and a method of manufacturing the dairy product . | the purified lactobacillus acidophilus strain i - 1492 according to the invention was filed on nov . 15 , 1994 in the national collection of microorganism cultures ( 25 , rue du dr . roux , f - 75724 paris cedex 15 ) according to the provisions of the budapest treaty . the physiological , chemical and biochemical characteristics of the acidophilus strains that may be used in the ferment according to the invention are shown in tables 1 and 2 . it has been found that the l . a . i - 1492 strain present chemical , biochemical and physiological characteristics similar to those of the other l . a . strains . as a matter of fact , the l . a . i - 1492 strain differs from the others only in that it degrades cholesterol more efficiently . the chemical , biochemical and physiological characteristics of the casei strain which can be used in the ferment according to the invention in combination with the l . a . i - 1492 strain , are compiled in tables 4 and 5 . a dairy product according to the present invention can be obtained by fermenting the ferment of the invention in a milk - based medium . for this purpose , the following process may be used . firstly , the l . a . i - 1492 , acidophilus and casei strains are incubated in a mrs type fermentation medium under 10 % of co 2 according to a standard program comprising several steps . the recombined lacteal base which is partially lactose - free and degassed is pasteurized for 1 , 5 minutes at 95 ° c . and inoculated at 10 %. finally , it is incubated according to the following program : 1 ) the l . a . i - 1492 strain : 2 hours at 37 ° c . under 10 % co 2 ; 2 ) the acidophilus strain : 2 hours at 37 ° c . ; and the product is then co - fermented in an anaerobic atmosphere and medium for 15 hours at 37 ° c . ( degassing under co 2 ). in order to realize the invention , any acidophilus and casei strains may be used as long as they present no health risk . preferably , the following acidophilus strain should be used : rp texel ™ by rhône - poulenc and l . a . ro - 52 ™ by rosell . the commercial casei e2al ™ by rhône - poulenc is preferably used . the proportions of l . a . i - 1492 , acidophilus and casei cultured strains , are respectively about 70 / 20 / 10 . these proportions may evidently be somewhat varied . nevertheless , the total concentration of lactobacilli acidophilus ( including those obtained from l . a . i - 1492 strains ) which is present in the dairy product once fermented , must be at least equal to 500 * 10 6 / g and the concentration of l . a . i - 1492 must be at least 380 * 10 6 / g . although total amino acid content is similar to milk , free amino acid are significantly higher . the level of peptides comprised in the fermented dairy product , having a molecular weight between 1000 and 5000 da . is around 30 % and the level of small peptides having less than 10 residues is approximately 15 %. it is known that such levels of peptides fortify , in a surprising way , the immune and digestive systems . in the fermented dairy product thus obtained , the dairy proteins are disintegrated into peptides whose size may be more or less large , allowing for an easier digestion of the product . indeed , subject allergic to milk proteins were able to digest the fermented dairy product thus obtained . once the fermented dairy product is manufactured , it is thereafter refrigerated and must be consumed before it deteriorates . generally , the consumption of the same must take place within a period of 60 to 120 days . a dairy product according to the invention has been commercialized by the applicant , bio - k plus international inc . ( whose address is : 635 victoria , westmount , h3y 2r9 , canada ) since jun . 2 , 1996 , under the trade - mark bio k +. however , the ferment of the present invention , which comprises the l . a . i - 1492 , acidophilus and casei strains has never been disclosed . nor have the specific purified strain l . a . i - 1492 and method of manufacturing the commercialized bio k + product been disclosed . as it may be appreciated , a man skilled in the art would not , with the commercialized bio k + product at hand , be able to reproduce the same product . the applicant has also suprisingly found that the fermented dairy product according to the invention has a stimulation effect on the immune system and is thereby effective for treating various inflammatory reactions and / or infectious diseases such as colds , sinusitis , urinary infections . the recommended treatment is a dose of 100 g per day of the fermented dairy product for a period of 10 to 60 days depending on the case . furthermore the fermented dairy product neutralizes side effects caused by antibiotics . the fermented dairy product of the invention has also been found to have significant effect in treating diseases and infections related to the intestinal tract such as diarrhea , diverticulitis , mega - colon , crohn disease . indeed , the applicant has found that daily consumption of the dairy product of the invention eliminates most cases of the above - mentioned diseases . furthermore , the fermented dairy product of the present invention contains a fair amount of folic acid and vitamin b12 which was produced during fermentation of the lactic culture . as a result , consumption of such product resulted in fast recuperation time in subjects whom regularly exercise . this observation is especially true for older individuals . as a matter of fact , 8 out of 10 people consuming the product on a daily basis said they felt better . the fermented dairy product according to the invention may also be used for the treatment of high blood levels of cholesterol . the recommended treatment consists of a dose of 100 g per day for a period of 30 to 60 days . the effect of this dairy product on the level of cholesterol in the blood was tested on a group of 14 patients to whom was prescribed a dose of 100 g per day for a period of , depending on the case , 30 to - 60 days . the results of these tests are shown in the following charts where the total cholesterol blood level ( cho total ) present in the blood is indicated . hence , these tests reveal that upon regular intake during a period of 60 days , the total cholesterol level failed from between 7 to 22 % and that the “ low density level ” ( ldl ) failed from between 9 to 25 %. furthermore , the level of triglycerides ( trigly ) drops from between 28 to 43 %. it can be seen that after 60 days of treatment , certain individuals recover a normal level of cho / hdl ( high density level ) ratio , that is , a level comprised between 3 . 2 to 4 . 4 or of ldl / hdl ratio ( that is , inferior to 3 . 8 for people aged 30 and over ). of course , the above - mentioned example is solely for the purpose of illustrating the invention and is given only as a representative means . it must not be used to limit the scope of the invention which may extend to any obvious variations . for example , one may consider administering the ferment of the invention or powder on a dehydrated support . | US-32203099-A |
a method for sending a multi - rate multi - receiver message containing a multi - receiver multi - response aggregate . the multi - rate multi - receiver aggregate is transmitted until a multi - receiver multi - response aggregate embedded within the multi - rate multi - receiver aggregate is encountered . transmission of the multi - rate multi - receiver aggregate is suspended for a predetermined time period . after the expiration of the predetermined time period , transmission of the multi - rate multi - receiver aggregate resumes . | throughout this description , the preferred embodiment and examples shown should be considered as exemplars , rather than limitations , of the present invention . the present invention is directed to a multi - rate aggregation scheme that is in the form of psdu bursting , which aggregates multiple frames , either to the same receiver or a number of receivers of the same rate , in a single psdu and bursts a number of psdus of various rates in sequence . to allow for a mrmra , the psdu bursting suspends temporarily after it transmits a mrmra . after receiving acknowledgements from the recipients of the mrmra , a block acknowledgement , is transmitted and the bursting resumes . this approach seamlessly combines mrmra and multi - rate aggregation without introducing any degradation in channel utilization . referring to fig1 , there is illustrated an example timing diagram 100 illustrating an aspect of the present invention . a timeline t is employed for the purpose of illustrating the various timing sequences illustrated in timing diagram 100 . at t 1 , illustrated by doted line 130 , a burst is initiated that sends a portion 102 of a ppdu that comprises frame 0 104 , frame 1 106 and frame 2 , 108 , where frame 2 108 is a mrmra frame . the burst continues , and at time t 2 , illustrated by dotted line 132 , the mrma frame 108 is encountered . the burst is suspended after sending the mrma frame 108 at t 3 , illustrated by dotted line 134 . the burst is suspended until time t 4 , illustrated by dotted line 136 . in a preferred embodiment the amount of time for suspending the burst is contained within the mrmra frame 108 . for example , mrmra frame 108 contains a spoofed nav field to prevent third parties from transmitting between times t 3 and t 4 which can also be used by the initiator to determine how long to suspend the burst transmission . while the burst is suspended , e . g ., from t 3 to t 4 , acknowledgements are received from receivers of the mrmra frame 108 . as shown in the example of fig1 , acknowledgements with data ( ack + data 110 and ack + data 112 ) are received between t 3 and t 4 . it should be noted that acknowledgements can be sent by themselves , or can include bi - directional data as shown in fig1 . the initiator of the burst sends a block acknowledgement with data ( ba + data ) 114 . preferably , all of the receivers of the mrmra have sent an ack or an ack + data in response to the mrmra frame 108 . however , if one of the intended recipients of the mrmra frame 108 does not respond to an mpdu , the initiator may retry transmitting the mpdu after sending the block acknowledgement 114 , or alternatively , may include the mpdu in a future mrmra , depending on the initiator &# 39 ; s policy . time line 118 illustrates the amount of time , t 2 to t 4 , used for sending the mrmra frame 108 , receiving the acknowledgements 112 and 114 , and the block acknowledgement 116 . at t 4 , the burst resumes , sending the remaining portion 120 of the ppdu . the burst comprising frame 3 122 , frame 4 124 and frame 5 126 , and is completed , as shown at time t 6 . however , if another mrmra frame ( not shown ) is encountered in the remaining portion of 120 of the ppdu , the burst is again suspended and the mrmra is processed . extending mrmra to multi - rate aggregation is a significant enhancement to aggregation mechanism , which greatly widens the application scopes of both mrmra and multi - rate aggregation . it is especially beneficial in enterprise environment for applications such as wireless voice over ip . one aspect of the present invention is that it allows for multiple responses , a desirable feature for many wireless applications . another aspect of the present invention is that it allows for multi - rate aggregation , so that there are more frames to aggregate than single rate cases . referring now to fig2 , there is illustrated a block diagram of an aggregate data frame 200 with multiple messages in accordance with an aspect of the present invention . data frame 200 , as shown has a ppdu header ( plcp header ) 202 , a first data unit ( psdu 1 ) 204 , a second data unit psdu 2 ) 206 and can have additional data units 208 . psdu 1 204 comprises a first header and a first data segment . the first header has data fields for indicating the scheduled response time for acknowledging receipt of pdsu 1 204 . likewise , psdu 2 206 has a second header and a second data segment , wherein the second header has data fields for indicating the scheduled response time for acknowledging receipt of psdu 2 206 . additional data units 208 can be appended to aggregate data frame 200 as desired . the additional data units 208 can have fields to indicate scheduled response times for corresponding data units . plcp header 202 can have a field indicating the length of aggregate data frame 200 . the value set in the field indicating the length of aggregate data frame 200 can be spoofed to include the length of time of aggregate data frame 200 , the length of time allocated for a response to psdu 1 204 , the time period allocated for a response to psdu 2 206 , and the time period allocated for responding to any additional data units 208 . for example , if aggregate data frame 200 is a ppdu frame , a nav in pclp header 202 can be used to indicate the length of data frame 200 . each data unit , psdu 1 204 , psdu 2 206 and any additional data units 208 can have a corresponding nav and txop set to indicate the time to respond and the length of time allocated for their corresponding response . the nav in plcp header 202 would be set to include the length of aggregate data frame 110 , the scheduled response period ( txop ) for psdu 1 204 , scheduled response period ( txop ) for psdu 2 206 and any other additional data units 208 . the nav for the aggregate data frame can also include any sif or other interframe time periods . fig3 is a block diagram of an exemplary ppdu header 202 in accordance with an aspect of the present invention . the frame header includes at least one header field 222 , nav 224 and txop 226 . the at least one header field 222 can include any fields desired for the header of the associated psdu frame , including but not limited to synchronization ( synch ), source , destination , frame check sequence ( e . g ., crc ) or for any field defined in the 802 . 11 or appropriate specification for the frame . nav 224 indicates to the recipient when to send an acknowledgement to the psdu frame . txop 226 field indicates the amount of time allocated for the acknowledgement for the psdu frame . frame headers similarly configured like frame header 202 can be employed by the psdu &# 39 ; s within the mrmra , for example psdu 1 204 , psdu 2 206 and additional data units 208 ( fig2 ). when a receiver that is not a recipient of the mrmra receives the mrmra , it sets its nav corresponding to the nav in the ppdu header 202 . if the receiver is a receiver of the mrmra , then it sets its nav according to the nav in the corresponding psdu . in view of the foregoing structural and functional features described above , a methodology in accordance with various aspects of the present invention will be better appreciated with reference to fig4 . while , for purposes of simplicity of explanation , the methodology of fig4 , is shown and described as executing serially , it is to be understood and appreciated that the present invention is not limited by the illustrated order , as some aspects could , in accordance with the present invention , occur in different orders and / or concurrently with other aspects from that shown and described herein . moreover , not all illustrated features may be required to implement a methodology in accordance with an aspect the present invention . embodiments of the present invention are suitably adapted to implement the methodology in hardware , software , or a combination thereof . referring to fig4 , there is illustrated a block diagram of a methodology 400 in accordance with an aspect of the present invention . at 402 a burst transmission is initiated . frames of the burst transmission are examined at 404 , where it is determined whether a multi - receiver multi - response ( mrmra ) frame is encountered . if at 404 it is determined an mrmra frame is being processed ( yes ) at 406 the mrmra frame is transmitted . at 408 the burst is suspended . the initiator of the burst then waits for the end of the response period as shown at 410 . in a preferred embodiment , the length of time for the initiator to wait is included in the mrmra . for example , for an 802 . 11 implementation , a spoofed nav in the header of the mrmra is used to determine how long to wait . the nav for the mrmra can also include any sif or other interframe time periods . during the response period , recipients of the mrmra packet respond with an acknowledgement ( ack ) or with an acknowledgement that includes data for the initiator ( ack + data ). at 412 the initiator sends a block acknowledgement ( block ack ). optionally , the block acknowledgement may include bi - directional data . the block acknowledgement is sent to the recipients of the mrmra . preferably , all of the receivers of the mrmra have sent an ack or an ack + data in response to the mrmra . however , if one of the intended recipients of the mrmra does not respond to an mpdu , the initiator may retry transmitting the mpdu after sending the block acknowledgement at 412 , or alternatively , may include the mpdu in a future mrmra , depending on the initiator &# 39 ; s policy . at 414 , it is determined whether the burst is finished . if the burst is finished ( yes ), then the initiator stops transmitting at 416 . if the burst is not finished ( no ), then the methodology 400 returns to 404 where the next frame is evaluated . if at 404 it is determined that the frame being transmitted is not an mrmra ( no ), then at 418 bursting continues and the next frame is transmitted . at 414 , it is determined whether the burst is finished . if the burst is finished ( yes ), then the initiator stops transmitting at 416 . if the burst is not finished ( no ), then the methodology 400 returns to 404 where the next frame is evaluated . it should be noted that if at 414 it is determined that the burst is not completed , processing returns to 404 for the next frame . if the next frame is an mrmra , then the burst is again suspended and 406 , 408 , 410 and 412 are repeated . if the next frame is not an mrmra , then as shown at 418 the burst continues . the burst may be suspended as many times as necessary for processing mrmra frames . fig5 is a block diagram that illustrates a computer system 500 upon which an embodiment of the invention may be implemented . computer system 500 includes a bus 502 or other communication mechanism for communicating information and a processor 504 coupled with bus 502 for processing information . computer system 500 also includes a main memory 506 , such as random access memory ( ram ) or other dynamic storage device coupled to bus 502 for storing information and instructions to be executed by processor 504 . main memory 506 also may be used for storing a temporary variable or other intermediate information during execution of instructions to be executed by processor 504 . computer system 500 further includes a ready only memory ( rom ) 508 or other static storage device coupled to bus 502 for storing static information and instructions for processor 504 . a storage device 510 , such as a magnetic disk or optical disk , is provided and coupled to bus 502 for storing information and instructions . an aspect of the present invention is related to the use of computer system 500 for multi - rate multi - receiver multi - response aggregation ( mrmrmra ). according to one embodiment of the invention , mrmra is provided by computer system 500 in response to processor 504 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in main memory 506 . such instructions may be read into main memory 506 from another computer - readable medium , such as storage device 510 . execution of the sequence of instructions contained in main memory 506 causes processor 504 to perform the process steps described herein . one or more processors in a multi - processing arrangement may also be employed to execute the sequences of instructions contained in main memory 506 . in alternative embodiments , hard - wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the invention . thus , embodiments of the invention are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software . the term “ computer - readable medium ” as used herein refers to any medium that participates in providing instructions to processor 504 for execution . such a medium may take many forms , including but not limited to non - volatile media , and volatile media . non - volatile media include for example optical or magnetic disks , such as storage device 510 . volatile media include dynamic memory such as main memory 506 . common forms of computer - readable media include for example floppy disk , a flexible disk , hard disk , magnetic cards , paper tape , any other physical medium with patterns of holes , a ram , a prom , an eprom , a flashprom , any other memory chip or cartridge , or any other medium from which a computer can read . various forms of computer - readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to processor 504 for execution . for example , the instructions may initially be borne on a magnetic disk of a remote computer . the remote computer can load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send the instructions over a telephone line using a modem . a modem local to computer system 500 can receive the data on the telephone line and use an infrared transmitter to convert the data to an infrared signal . an infrared detector coupled to bus 502 can receive the data carried in the infrared signal and place the data on bus 502 . bus 502 carries the data to main memory 506 from which processor 504 retrieves and executes the instructions . the instructions received by main memory 506 may optionally be stored on storage device 510 either before or after execution by processor 504 . optionally , computer system 500 includes a communication interface 518 coupled to bus 502 . communication interface 518 provides a two - way data communication coupling to a network link 520 that is connected to a local network 522 . for example , communication interface 518 may be an integrated services digital network ( isdn ) card or a modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line . as another example , communication interface 518 may be a local area network ( lan ) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible lan . wireless links may also be implemented . in any such implementation , communication interface 518 sends and receives electrical , electromagnetic , or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information . network link 520 typically provides data communication through one or more networks to other data devices . for example , network link 520 may provide a connection through local network 522 to a host computer 524 . local network 122 uses electrical , electromagnetic , and / or optical signals that carry the digital data to and from computer system 500 . computer system 500 can send messages and receive data , including program codes , through the network ( s ), network link 520 , and communication interface 518 . for example , host 524 might transmit a requested code for an application program through local network 522 , and communication interface 518 . in accordance with the invention , one such downloaded application provides for implementing mrmrmra as described herein . the received code may be executed by processor 504 as it is received , and / or stored in storage device 510 , or other non - volatile storage for later execution . fig6 is a block diagram of a system 600 configured to operate in accordance with an aspect of the present invention . system 600 includes a transmitter 602 and a receiver 604 . a controller ( control ) 606 , for example a computer system 500 ( fig5 ), is suitably adapted for controlling the transmitter 602 and receiver 604 . controller 606 suitably includes program code , or logic for performing control functions . “ logic ”, as used herein , includes but is not limited to hardware , firmware , software and / or combinations of each to perform a function ( s ) or an action ( s ), and / or to cause a function or action from another component . for example , based on a desired application or need , logic may include a software controlled microprocessor , discrete logic such as an application specific integrated circuit ( asic ), a programmable / programmed logic device , memory device containing instructions , or the like , or combinational logic embodied in hardware . logic may also be fully embodied as software . a transmit buffer 608 is used for buffering frames for transmission by transmitter 608 . controller 606 may suitably be connected to both transmit buffer 608 and transmitter 602 to monitor frames being transmitted or waiting to be transmitted by transmitter 602 . receiver 604 receives frames and stores them in receive buffer 610 . memory 612 is coupled to controller 606 . memory 612 is at least one of volatile or non - volatile memory and may be used by controller 606 for storing variables or other data used by controller 606 for controlling transmitter 602 and receiver 604 . in addition , controller 606 can be configured for transferring data between memory 606 and transmit buffer 608 and / or memory 606 and receive buffer 610 . in operation , controller 606 puts frames into transmit buffer 608 for transmitting . transmitter 602 initiates a burst transmission . when a mrmra frame is detected , then controller 606 signals transmitter 602 to suspend transmitting the burst . in one embodiment , controller 606 may determine when an mrmra is about to be transmitted by monitoring transmit buffer 608 . in another embodiment , transmitter 602 signals controller 606 when it encounters an mrmra frame . controller 606 determines from the mrmra frame the amount of time allocated for the mrmra to receive responses , such as acks or acks + data and sets timer 614 accordingly . while the burst transmission is suspended , receiver 604 receives responses to the mrmra . the responses are forwarded to receive buffer 610 . optionally , controller 606 can examine the packets in receive buffer 610 to determine which receivers responded to the mrmra and use memory 612 to track which receivers responded . when timer 614 expires , controller 606 sends a block acknowledgement ( ba ) or a block acknowledgement with data ( ba + data ). preferably , all receivers of the mrmra responded and the ba or ba + data is directed to all recipients of the mrmra . however , as those skilled in the art can readily appreciate , there may be circumstances where a receiver does not acknowledge the mrmra , for example the receiver doesn &# 39 ; t receive the mrmra , or the corresponding mpdu within the mrmra , and therefore doesn &# 39 ; t respond . how the controller 606 handles a missing ack can vary . for example , in one embodiment controller 606 resends the mpdu via transmitter 602 immediately after sending the ba . in another embodiment , controller 606 resends the mrmra in a future packet . in still another embodiment , if the time period for delivering the mpdu expired , the mpdu is discarded . in view of the foregoing , those skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the present invention extends the use of mrmra to multi - rate aggregation . furthermore , the present invention substantially enhances mmra by allowing multiple immediate responses , a desirable feature for many wireless applications , such as qos sensitive applications like wvoip for example . the present invention provides higher mac efficiency and much wider application scope than either mmra or mrmra by themselves while adding very little overhead and very little additional implementation cost for mmra . what has been described above includes exemplary implementations of the present invention . it is , of course , not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the present invention , but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the present invention are possible . accordingly , the present invention is intended to embrace all such alterations , modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly , legally and equitably entitled . | US-73117210-A |
a device , system , and method for harvesting solar energy from an artificial turf field or other area exposed to sunlight . an array of solar collectors may be placed in a sports stadium or other open field , each solar collector having an artificial turf structure including simulated grass and an open support structure capable of supporting human foot traffic , the artificial turf structure overlying a resilient bed supporting photovoltaic panels . light falling on the structure at incident angles of 30 degrees from the artificial turf surface normal may be transmitted from the open support structure to the photovoltaic panels , and the panels may convert the transmitted light to electricity . the photovoltaic panels may be oriented to maximize an amount of captured light responsively to latitude . the turf structure support members may be angled responsively to an average direction of the sun at an installation latitude . | referring to fig1 , a solar collecting artificial turf structure 100 has a porous bed 102 of resilient material that supports encapsulated functional panels 104 arranged in an array . overlying the panels 104 and bed 102 is a simulated turf mat 101 . the turf mat 101 includes an open lattice mat 108 with attached blade tufts 106 which simulate grass . the blade tufts 106 may be welded to , for example , or otherwise attached to the lattice mat 108 . the lattice mat can be configured to provide support for foot traffic and resist shear and wear due to downward pressure from foot traffic . by arranging the blade tufts 106 within the open lattice mat 108 , the lattice mat can protect the blade tufts 106 to a large degree and ensure the blade tufts remain erect to simulate natural or live grass . the open structure of the lattice mat 108 allows a good proportion of incident light to pass through to the functional panels 104 positioned below the lattice mat . the functional panels 104 may include solar collectors ( e . g . photovoltaic cells and panels ) or light - emitting devices such as lamps , photodiodes or light - emitting diode ( led ) arrays . they may include multiple types of functional panels 104 among other types including light and / or pressure sensors , voltage regulators , control panels , voltage boosters , inverters , rectifiers , transformers , voltage and / or current regulators or energy storage devices such as batteries , ultracapacitors , etc . the functional panels 104 may also include communications devices such as wireless relay stations or wireless control devices . the functional panels are preferably ruggedized by enclosing in polymer boxes or encapsulating in a resin block . in an exemplary embodiment , the functional panels 104 are arranged in an array covering a recreational field or landscape such as a football field , golf course , or baseball field . in this embodiment , the functional panels 104 may be mostly photovoltaic converters that are interconnected by a suitable mechanism . other functional panels 104 may provide electrical service functions such as voltage regulation , safety switching , insolation measurement , and other functions . the turf mat 101 protects the functional panels 104 by distributing impact and / or pressure over a wide area of the functional panels . the turf mat 101 is configured into a truss - like structure of resilient material that bends under impact and deforms under shear and pressure loading followed by recovery . the functional panels 104 are further protected by being fitted into the porous bed 102 . the blade tufts 106 and the open lattice mat 108 can be formed of a polymer . the blade tufts 106 are preferably formed of a material that allows transmittance of as much solar energy as possible . for example , they may be transparent with a tint to give the appearance of grass . the blade tufts and open lattice mat may also be coated with uv - screening material and be fitted with optimally sited optical elements that can modify the turf appearance or scatter / direct light onto the photovoltaic elements beneath . in embodiments in which at least some of the functional panels 104 include photovoltaic converters , the tinting may be selected to pass light of a range of wavelengths that best overlaps the range of wavelengths over which the photovoltaic converter is most efficient . the blade tufts 106 may also be configured with a minimum number / density of blades required to provide the desired appearance . preferably , the open lattice 108 is of a material that matches the blade tufts 106 in appearance . the open lattice and blade tufts may also have properties that provide yield and springiness of the turf . the porous bed 102 may be of any suitable material such as , for example , material used in modern playgrounds . for example , elastomers such as sintered shredded rubber waste ( e . g . tires ), open cell foam , or an open truss - structure may be used . referring for the moment to fig4 , the porous bed 102 may be laid down and simultaneously molded with recesses 180 impressed therein . busses 172 or other kinds of wiring such as signal wiring or cabling , appropriately insulated , may be laid down in the porous bed 102 . anchor points 184 may be distributed as required for securing the lattice mat 108 . then , as illustrated in fig5 , the functional panels 104 are then laid down into the recesses 180 and as necessary , interconnected or connected to a buss 172 . in order to avoid a bluish appearance of the turf from such an open structure ( since for example , silicon cells can have a blue shiny appearance ), panels may be encapsulated or covered with materials having a greenish tint . as shown in fig6 , the lattice mat 108 may then be laid over the functional panels and anchored to the anchor points 184 . the open lattice 108 may include spokes 110 of a strong and resilient material with low creep . for example , polyurethane , polyethylene , polypropylene , rubber and the like . the structure of the spokes may be designed to provide resistance to shear and a yield that mimics natural turf . the truss - like structure of the open lattice 108 may be configured to permit as much light to pass through it as possible , with consideration of a wide range of apparent angles of the sun during the course of a day . for example , the spokes 110 may be near vertical and have a low aspect ratio in cross - section . alternatively , the spokes may be flat but their primary surface may be aligned in the north - south direction to ensure that the sunlight is minimally blocked during midday . referring now to fig2 , a solar collecting artificial turf structure 120 also has a porous bed 102 of resilient material that supports encapsulated functional panels 104 as in the embodiment of fig1 . the present embodiment shows features that may be combined with any of the features of the other embodiments . for example , on top of , and overlying the panels 104 and bed 102 , a simulated turf mat 121 has an open lattice mat 128 with a non - flat surface 116 . the surface 116 may improve the purchase of athletes using the artificial turf structure 120 , thus increasing the ability to apply or exert power against the turf during athletic activity . the undulations in the surface 116 may be regular or irregular and may include dense ( high frequency ) components ( not shown ) to ensure that the top surface has desired properties in terms of its appearance and mechanical performance , in addition to , or instead of gradual undulations . the blade tufts 112 may be welded to , for example , or otherwise attached to the open lattice mat 128 . as above , by arranging the blade tufts 112 within the open lattice mat 128 , the latter can protect the blade tufts 112 to a large degree and ensure that the latter remain erect to simulate real or natural grass . another feature shown in fig2 is that the blade tufts 112 are attached to a web 114 which is separate from the open lattice mat 128 . this may allow the web 114 and blade tufts 112 to be replaced separately from the open lattice mat 128 . the web 114 may include a thin tinted or translucent sheet , screen , mesh or veil with periodically located drain holes if necessary , that allows for water drainage and avoids dust or dirt collecting on the panels below . the web could be maintained and cleaned for relatively minimal cost . referring now to fig3 , a solar collecting artificial turf structure 140 also has a porous bed 102 of resilient material that supports encapsulated functional panels 104 as in the embodiments of fig1 and 2 . the present embodiment shows features that may be combined with any of the features of the other embodiments . blade tufts 134 are attached onto stems 132 . this configuration can provide a greater open area below the top 143 and surface 116 , while providing a similar appearance as viewed from the top 143 of the open lattice mat 128 . the artificial turf structures shown above may be made from modules that are tiled or fit together to form a macroturf structure . in an exemplary embodiment , the modules may be configured with irregular boundaries as indicated at 100 in fig7 to give an installed system a more natural appearance . alternatively , the modules may be configured with varying geometric boundaries ( not shown ) to give an installed system a specific patterned or logo - based appearance . additional layers may be provided in an installed system according to suitable methods and structures . for example , a gravel , limestone or supplementary elastomeric bed may be installed to support the porous bed 102 . drainage conduits may be provided within or beneath the gravel bed . also , power and communications wiring may be provided below the porous bed 102 . electrical components may be provided outside the array of functional panels 104 such as terminals , junction boxes , controllers , inverters , voltage boosters , and monitoring systems . referring now to fig8 , another feature that may be combined with any of the foregoing embodiments , or replace features thereof , is a blade tuft support 192 that stems from a level above the base of the open lattice mat 196 . the support 192 may support blade tufts ( e . g ., 194 ) as in any of the foregoing embodiments . the blade tufts can be shortened as needed to ensure a proper fit within the artificial turf structure 190 . in other exemplary embodiments ( not shown ), blade tufts may stem from the top of an open lattice mat . for example , as shown in fig9 , tufts 234 may be integral or attached to an open lattice 238 . in this embodiment , the tufts maybe form a mat or tile that is attached to the open lattice . referring to fig1 and 11 , the artificial turf support 220 has vertical 222 and horizontal 224 supports forming square sections ( aligned horizontally and extending into the plane of the page so that they intersect as a line with the plane of the page of fig1 and as viewed from above in fig1 ) closed by a mesh or screen 226 . the mesh or screen 226 supports an open lattice mat 202 . the lattice mat 202 has truss elements 218 that are shaped and angled to minimize blocking of light when oriented appropriately . a variety of structures may be devised to satisfy the condition of low light blocking with sun angle , and various tradeoffs may be employed in optimizing their shape and orientation for different climates , latitudes , and desired functional criteria to be optimized . as in previous embodiments , blade tufts 204 may be provided as a separate mat or may be made integral to the open lattice mat 202 . a porous supporting bed 212 made , for example , of gravel may be provided . conventional methods and structures may be employed as are suitable to provide for drainage and solid support . functional panels 208 , for example photovoltaic panels , can be supported and oriented by a panel support 210 . the panel support 210 may include a porous bed as discussed in other embodiments . since the support 220 is able to handle the load applied to the artificial turf structure 200 , the panel support 210 may also be a lightweight molded support such as , for example , a vacuum molded tray . the functional panel 208 may be covered by a clear cover 206 . gutters 216 may also be provided and drain holes as required may be provided in the panel support 210 . the support 220 may have triangulation provided by additional structural members according to suitable devices for forming support structures . in another embodiment ( not shown ) the open lattice mat may not have horizontal stringers ( such as that indicated at 198 ) and may include only upwardly directed pillars . spokes may be arranged in any suitable fashion to create a desired support and performance . in further embodiments , the open lattice mats may be transparent or translucent as are the blade tufts . in yet other embodiments , the blade tufts may be sufficiently sparse that they may be opaque ( e . g . being formed of an opaque material or coated with an opaque substance ). bladed tufts may be attached by welding , weaving , or other suitable securement means . the tufts may have round cross - sections or other cross - section shapes , and may have a cross - section that differs from that of natural turf blades . the components may be formed as modular units , as tiles , as rolls , or as large mats as desired . where components are in abutting arrangement , they may be interconnected by any suitable mechanism such as , for example , by clips , studs , a continuous polymer seam such as on a baseball , or screw , rivet , nut and bolt , or other fasteners with appropriate interlinking bosses stemming from the components , such as the open lattice mat , the blade tuft mat , the support structure ( support 220 in fig1 ), etc . in exemplary embodiments , the functional panels may be photovoltaic panels or modules between 10 and 30 cm square or alternatively , rectangular with edges in the range of 10 to 30 cm . such sizes are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting of the scope of the claimed invention . in exemplary embodiments , the functional panels include individual cells providing typically 0 . 5v and 2 w in full unshaded sunlight or up to 5 w at 12v in larger sized panels such as 30 cm × 30 cm . preferably , the aggregate efficiency of the artificial turf structure is at least 5 % at peak solar conditions . this may be achieved using photovoltaic cells having 15 % efficiency with the artificial turf above the functional panels permitting passage of about a third of the solar light in cases where the incoming light forms an angle of 30 degrees from the vertical or the top surface normal ( e . g ., incident angle for horizontal surface ). alternatively , lower cost cells / panels with lower efficiencies may be used . potential applications for the artificial turf embodiments include golf courses , football stadiums , parks , highway mediums , open - air theaters including stage and seating / walking areas , sport fields , parking lots , sidewalks , driveways , residential landscaping and other applications . functional panels that include light - emitting devices may be used to generate digital displays and light shows , for example at sports stadiums . it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made in the above - described embodiments of the present invention . however , the scope of the present invention should be determined by the following claims . | US-201213399287-A |
a valve is described . the valve includes a valve body that at least partially defining a valve envelope and a plurality of circuit substrates which is disposed within the valve envelope . at least one circuit substrates in the plurality of circuit substrates includes circuitry for controlling the valve . a circuit module is also described . a method is described for integrating circuit modules into a plurality of arrangements to provide various electronic functions and applications ; these applications may be incorporated into a valve body , in support of a more complex electronic assembly , or as stand - alone electronic assemblies . | referring now to fig1 , a block diagram is shown of an exemplary system 100 having a portion for controlling an electronically controlled valve 120 . system 100 also includes in this example the electronically controlled valve 120 . fig1 is a simplistic , high - level view of a system 100 that includes a control input 105 , an adder 110 , a spool position controller 115 , the electronically controlled valve 120 , and a feedback sensor module 150 that takes an input from one or more feedback sensors ( not shown ) and that produces one or more feedback signals 151 . a valve controller 160 includes the adder 110 , the spool position controller 115 , and the feedback sensor module 150 . the electronically controlled valve 120 includes a spool actuator 125 , such as a voice coil , a spool 130 , a body 135 , an input 140 , and an output 145 . the electronically controlled valve 120 controls fluid ( e . g ., air , gas , water , oil ) 141 flow through the electronically controlled valve 120 by operating the spool 130 . the spool actuator 125 controls movement of the spool 130 based on one or more control signals 116 from the spool position controller 115 . the spool position controller 115 modifies the one or more control signals 116 based on the one or more input signals 111 , which include addition of the control input signal 105 and the one or more feedback signals 151 . the feedback sensor module 150 can monitor the spool actuator 120 ( e . g ., current through the spool actuator ), a sensor indicating the position of the spool 130 , or sensors indicating any number of other valve attributes ( e . g ., pressure or flow rate of the fluid 141 ). aspects of the present invention are related to a number of the elements shown in fig1 . turning to fig2 in addition to fig1 , a cutaway , perspective view is shown of an exemplary pneumatic valve 200 . the pneumatic valve 200 includes an electronics cover 205 , a motor housing retainer 207 , a motor housing 210 , an upper cavity 215 , a lower cavity 216 , a coil header assembly 220 , a spool 230 , a sleeve 260 , a lower spring 240 , an upper spring 245 , external ports 270 , 271 , 280 , 281 , and 282 , circumferentially spaced internal ports 270 a , 271 a , 280 a , 281 a , and 282 a , and a valve body 290 . coil header assembly 220 includes a voice coil portion 222 having a voice coil 221 and an overlap portion that overlaps a portion of the spool 230 and connects the spool 230 to the coil header assembly 220 . the spool actuator 125 of fig1 includes , in the example of fig2 , motor housing 210 , coil header assembly 220 , upper spring 245 , and lower spring 240 . it is noted that a view of the motor housing 210 is also shown in , e . g ., fig3 and that at least a portion of the motor housing 210 is magnetized in order to be responsive to the voice coil 221 . it can be seen that the motor housing retainer 207 is coupled to the voice coil 221 , here using a flexible cable 1720 . in the example show in fig2 , a top surface 211 of the motor housing 210 contacts a bottom surface 208 of motor housing retainer 207 . the motor housing 210 is therefore held in place by the motor housing retainer 207 , and the motor housing retainer 207 is a printed circuit board . the motor housing retainer 207 can serve multiple purposes . patent application ser . no . ______ , filed on sep . 19 , 2007 and titled “ retaining element for a mechanical component ” describes the motor housing retainer 207 in further detail . patent application ser . no . ______ is assigned to the assignee of the present application , and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety . the spool 230 includes in this example a passage 265 . the passage 265 has a number of purposes , including equalizing pressure between the upper cavity 215 and the lower cavity 216 , as described in more detail below . the passage 230 is included in an exemplary embodiment herein , but the spool 230 may also be manufactured without passage 265 . the electronics cover 205 includes a connector 206 used to couple a spool position controller 115 to the voice coil 221 on voice coil portion 222 . the electronics cover 205 and connector 206 are only examples of a cover and connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention . the cover 205 and connector 206 shown are non - limiting examples . a description of exemplary operation of the valve 200 is included in u . s . pat . no . 5 , 960 , 831 , which is assigned to the assignee of the present application . it forms part of the present application and the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety . u . s . pat . no . 5 , 960 , 831 describes , for instance , airflow through the external ports 270 , 271 , 280 , 281 , and 283 and the circumferentially spaced internal ports 270 a , 271 a , 280 a , 281 a , and 283 a . it is noted that the springs 240 , 245 along with the coil header assembly 220 , motor housing 210 , and spool 230 , are configured such that the spool 230 blocks the ports 281 a when no power is applied to the voice coil 221 . other portions of pneumatic valve 200 are also described in u . s . pat . no . 5 , 960 , 831 . the motor housing retainer 207 is a circuit module with limited functionality , which means that the valve controller 160 of fig1 retains all of the electronics used to create the control signal ( s ) 116 and therefore control the electronically controlled valve 120 . the integration of electronics and controls within the pneumatic valve “ envelope ” ( e . g ., body 290 and an electronics cover such as electronics cover 205 ) is a desirable attribute in the market place . in order to accomplish design goals of enabling integration of electronics and controls within the envelope , a significant amount of circuitry would be required that would not fit in the available area . additionally , several circuit functions that would be required on certain valves would also be required on some products , but might not be required on other products . a small , low cost , high performance solution can minimize the impact of subsequent changes , and unify a product line . a classical approach to circuit design is to conduct ‘ product proprietary ’ circuit design . clearly , this can consume a great deal of time and cost due to duplicated effort . alternatively , circuit designs can be ‘ copied ’ and ‘ pasted ’ into several designs ; however , a problem in one circuit would impact every circuit from which the original design was copied . traceability would become a concern when using such an approach to ensure that the changes occurred in every duplicated circuit . an exemplary proposed solution herein divides basic functional elements into ‘ circuit modules ’ with board - to - board connectors placed strategically and manufactured with appropriate orientation and type of connectors to ensure that improper installation is not allowed . each circuit module utilizes a common backplane for analog signals , digital signals , and power . in this manner , the circuit modules can be stacked vertically ( e . g ., top surface to bottom surface ) in any arrangement without affecting performance or operation ( small x - y footprint , but z varies with the number of modules ). additionally , a backplane printed circuit board ( pcb ) can be manufactured to accept these modules with a common backplane such that the modules can be used in various products , decreasing cost , easing change management , reducing the number of manufactured parts while increasing the number of products that can be offered , and providing design flexibility . it would therefore be possible to stock a cabinet full of modules and manufacture product shells . upon product order , the product could be assembled from bins of circuit modules , where the same circuit module would show up on numerous products but require only a single design effort . furthermore , modification of that one circuit module would not necessarily affect other circuit modules . typically , however , modification of that one circuit module would cause an automatic upgrade to all products that use the modified module . various circuit modules may be defined and used either as part of a valve assembly ( e . g ., valve assembly 2000 as show in fig4 , described below ) or as part of a valve controller ( e . g ., valve controller 160 of fig1 ) or as part of both . fig4 is a perspective view of the valve shown in fig2 with a large electronics cover 2010 . a cover ( e . g ., electronics cover 205 or large electronics cover 2010 ) along with the valve body 290 form part of the valve assembly 2000 . the large electronics cover 2010 allows , as shown in fig5 , a number of circuit modules 2110 to form part of the valve assembly 2000 . as shown in fig6 , one or more connectors 2210 can be used to interconnect the various circuit modules 2110 . additionally , the motor housing retainer 207 has a j1 connector that would mate with corresponding contact - type connectors on a circuit module 2110 . fig7 is a top view of screening for an analog pid ( proportional - integral - derivative ) controller , which shows a number of connectors j 1 , j 2 , j 5 , j 6 , j 9 , and j 10 that are designed to mate with corresponding connectors 2210 on the circuit modules 2110 . the pid controller may be located within the valve controller 160 . the circuit modules 2110 may be , for example , a driver / controller module or a power supply module . each of these circuit modules has certain corresponding functions . a driver / controller module may be designed to accept analog input signals and to provide anti - alias filtering prior to analog to digital conversion . it may include a ‘ driver disable ’ input for emergency functions . an industrial signal conversion module can convert an input signal to a signal to be placed on a backplane for processing by other circuit modules . such a module may include switches to steer the signal to the appropriate outputs on the backplane . a connector interface and indication module may also double as a dummy module . such a module may provide connectors to connect to external device . additionally , the module may include indicators , such as leds . additionally , a module may be designed to provide active circuit connections . a benefit to these circuit modules is that they can be placed vertically on top of the motor housing retainer 207 and therefore provide certain functionality within the valve assembly 2000 . furthermore , the circuit modules 2110 can be placed “ horizontally ” in the mounting locations 2310 , 2320 , and 2330 of fig7 . in the example of fig7 , the mounting location 2330 is suitable for use with the driver / controller module 2110 , but the mounting locations 2310 and 2320 are not suitable for use with the driver / controller module 2110 . it is noted that the circuit modules 2110 described previously are merely exemplary . many other functions can be designed in , for instance , an rs232 or rs485 communication module ; perhaps a high performance processor ; or an ethernet or wireless communication module . the options are nearly limitless . fig8 shows a logic flow diagram of a method in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention . in step 810 , a valve body that at least partially defines a valve envelope is provided . a plurality of circuit substrates are disposed within the valve envelope in step 820 . at least one circuit substrate of the plurality of circuit substrates includes circuitry for controlling the valve . additionally , at least one of the substrates provides a given functionality . said substrate is selected according to the functionality it provides . depending on the specific requirements of the valve a given module may be located either “ vertically ” in the valve envelope or “ horizontally ” in the external controller 160 . it is therefore possible to create the control circuitry for a valve using a number of pre - existing modules by selecting the modules providing the desired functionalities and placing the selected modules either within the valve envelope or in the external controller 160 ( e . g ., on a common backplane provided in the external controller 160 ). certain embodiments of the disclosed invention may be implemented by hardware ( e . g ., one or more processors , discrete devices , programmable logic devices , large scale integrated circuits , or some combination of these ), software ( e . g ., firmware , a program of executable instructions , microcode , or some combination of these ), or some combination thereof . aspects of the disclosed invention may also be implemented on one or more semiconductor circuits , comprising hardware and perhaps software residing in one or more memories . aspects of the disclosed invention may also include computer - executable media tangibly embodying one or more programs of computer - readable instructions executable by one or more processors to perform certain of the operations described herein . the foregoing description has provided by way of exemplary and non - limiting examples a full and informative description of the best techniques presently contemplated by the inventors for carrying out embodiments of the invention . however , various modifications and adaptations may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant arts in view of the foregoing description , when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims . all such and similar modifications of the teachings of this invention will still fall within the scope of this invention . it is noted that the example described above specifically concerns valves and controller for valves . however , the techniques shown above are also applicable to any electronic device having various electronic functions which may be suitable for modular embodiments , and the use of the exemplary embodiments of this invention is not limited to electronic valves . furthermore , some of the features of exemplary embodiments of this invention could be used to advantage without the corresponding use of other features . as such , the foregoing description should be considered as merely illustrative of the principles of embodiments of the present invention , and not in limitation thereof . while the exemplary embodiments are illustrative of electronically controlled valves , the techniques in accordance with this invention may be applied to various electronically controlled devices , e . g ., motors , etc . | US-97751907-A |
a method for reprocessing a phase substantially consisting of steryl glycoside / fatty acid alkyl ester / water agglomerates , which was formed when fatty acid alkyl ester generated by transesterification of vegetable oils or animal fats was washed with water , wherein the water content is evaporated by heating the phase and subsequently the steryl glycosides are split into their sterol and sugar fractions in the presence of an acid catalyst . | in a special aspect of the invention , the water is evaporated from the crude biodiesel at a temperature between 120 and 180 ° c ., preferably between 140 and 160 ° c ., wherein the evaporation should proceed under atmospheric pressure or at negative pressure , preferably between 500 and 800 mbar . in a further special aspect of the invention , the breakdown of the steryl glycosides is effected by contacting the crude biodiesel with an acidically acting solid ion exchanger . a useful ion exchanger for example is a sulfonic - acid - based organic ion exchanger resin , but also an inorganic zeolite - based ion exchanger . these method steps particularly advantageously are carried out at an elevated temperature , most suitably at a temperature between 100 and 200 ° c . this variant of the method has the advantage that no acid is mixed into the crude biodiesel , which subsequently must be neutralized or removed again . in a further special aspect of the invention , the breakdown of the steryl glycosides is effected by adding methanolic sulfuric acid to the crude biodiesel . advantageously , the acid quantity in the methanol amounts to between 4 and 50 wt -%, the acid ( without methanol content ) is added in a mass ratio to the steryl glycosides of 0 . 2 to 3 to 1 , the addition of the acid and the breakdown of the sterol glycosides is effected at a temperature of 30 to 150 ° c ., preferably at 40 to 80 ° c ., and this is effected under such an excess pressure that the methanolic fraction of the acid substantially is not evaporated . the product of the method according to the invention is a crude biodiesel with an increased content of dissolved sterols and sugars . before using the biodiesel as fuel , the sugar content must be removed . this can be effected by washing the crude biodiesel with water , with the sugar fracton passing over into the washing water phase . the increased sterol content , however , does not diminish the usability of the biodiesel . optionally however , when it is economically expedient , the sterols can be isolated from the crude biodiesel , in order to be utilized as valuable material . subsequent to the removal of the sugar fraction , the sterols therefore can be separated by stripping with steam . further developments , advantages and possible applications of the invention can also be taken from the following description of application examples . all features described form the subject - matter of the invention per se or in any combination , independent of their inclusion in the claims or their back - reference . when carrying out the examples , the following measurement and analysis methods were employed : determination of phosphatides , din en 14107 determination of sulfur , din en iso 20884 determination of fatty acid methyl ester , din en 14103 determination of steryl glycosides , sterols , din en 14105 determination of methanol , din en 14110 determination of sugar , by means of high pressure liquid chromatography with refractive index detector determination of water , din en iso 12937 determination of free fatty acids , din en 14104 determination of sulfuric acid , ion - chromatographic determination of sulfate ions or by precipitation as barium sulfate in a pilot plant operating by the method patented in de 10 2006 044 467 b4 , crude biodiesel was generated from palm oil by basically catalyzed transesterification with methanol . the production capacity of the pilot plant was 100 kg crude biodiesel per 24 hours . after the neutralization with 3 % hydrochloric acid according to the invention , the crude fatty acid methyl ester had the following composition : the crude fatty acid methyl ester was subjected to washing with water in a washing column in a continuous process , wherein in the washing column , at the boundary between water and ester phase , a phase substantially consisting of steryl glycoside / fatty acid alkyl ester / water agglomerates was formed , which was constantly loosened up by stirring , so that the agglomerates passed over into the ester phase and were suspended therein . the ester phase was continuously withdrawn from the washing column into a stirred tank and in the same treated with an intensive mixer by adding water . there was formed a mixture of crude biodiesel and biodiesel sludge which had been formed from the agglomerates by the intensive mixing . the mixture was continuously transferred from the intensive mixing tank into a centrifuge by means of which the sludge was separated from the crude biodiesel . this washing process corresponded to the method described in the german patent application 10 2008 050935 . 3 - 44 not yet published . from the wash of 100 kg crude biodiesel , which was carried out with water , a biodiesel sludge quantity of 8100 g was obtained . this sludge had the following composition : after a residence time of 24 h , fatty acid methyl ester had settled down from the sludge layer as upper layer and water had settled down as lower layer . after separately sucking off the two layers , a sludge quantity of 7240 g was left with the following composition : under atmospheric pressure and by stirring , this sludge was heated to 150 ° c . and for another 3 h was stirred at 150 ° c ., until the water from the solution had evaporated almost completely and a solution quantity of 3584 g was obtained with the following composition : under atmospheric pressure and by stirring , the solution was cooled to 50 ° c . and an amount of 200 g of a 30 wt -% methanolic sulfuric acid was added slowly . the solution was stirred for 2 h at 50 ° c . there was obtained a solution quantity of 3776 g with the following composition : subsequently , the solution was treated four times each with 150 g of 40 % sodium hydroxide solution and with 3 liters of water of 50 ° c . in a stirred tank with an intensive mixer , wherein the sugar and the methanol content passed over into the water phase . subsequently , the water was separated by decanting . after the fourth pass , the quantity of the fatty acid methyl ester phase was 3564 g and had the following composition : from the wash carried out with water of 100 kg crude biodiesel of the same specification as in example 1 , a biodiesel sludge quantity of 8000 g was obtained after the washing method described in example 1 . this sludge had the following composition : after a residence time of 24 h , fatty acid methyl ester had settled down from the sludge layer as upper layer and water had settled down as lower layer . after separately sucking off the two layers , a sludge quantity of 7097 g was left with the following composition : under atmospheric pressure and by stirring , this sludge was heated to 150 ° c . and for another 3 h was stirred at 150 ° c ., until the water from the solution had evaporated almost completely and a solution quantity of 3530 g was obtained with the following composition : this crude fatty acid methyl ester phase was cooled to 140 ° c . and continuously passed through a treatment column with solid ion exchanger . for the test set - up a double - jacket steel cylinder with a length of about 80 cm and an inside diameter of 5 cm was used , which was filled with glass beads with 3 mm diameter , glass wool and 200 g of the highly acid ion exchanger r ct269dr ( purolite ). the ion exchanger bed length was 300 mm ; the granule diameter of the ion exchanger was 0 . 7 - 0 . 8 mm . from a heated recipient vessel , the ester was conveyed into the column from below by means of a pump and via the upper column outlet discharged into a collecting tank . heating of the column jacket was effected via a thermostatted oil bath circuit . the throughput was 200 ml / h . after about 12 h , the process was stopped . there was obtained a solution quantity of 1914 q with the following composition : | US-201013582617-A |
an apparatus for processing substrates includes a chamber , a substrate transfer element for transferring a substrate to and from the chamber , and a substrate support for receiving and holding a substrate within the chamber . the apparatus also includes multiple pins positioned and configured to be received by respective holes in the chamber bottom and moveable between a retracted position and an extended position . a pin actuation system is provided for moving the pins between the retracted position and the extended position . the pin actuation system controls the velocity at which the pins move and varies the speed of the pins by accelerating or decelerating at particular points during the pin cycle . a reduction in the cycle time is facilitated by accelerating the lift pins to relatively high speeds and then slowing the pins down prior to their arrival at locations where the substrate or wafer may be damaged . the throughput of the chamber can be increased , the likelihood of damage to the substrate can be reduced , and bouncing of the substrate while supported by the pins can be reduced . | as shown in fig1 a substrate or wafer processing system 20 includes a chamber 22 in which the processing occurs . in the interior of the chamber , a wafer 24 having an upper surface 26 , a lower surface 28 , and a perimeter 30 , can be secured within a pocket 32 of an edge ring 34 or other substrate support . a wafer lift mechanism 36 depends from the chamber bottom 38 . a slit valve 40 located in the chamber wall facilitates the introduction and removal of wafers to and from the chamber 22 . a robot 42 with an end effector formed as a blade 44 at the distal end of the robot &# 39 ; s arm facilitates the transfer of wafers . as shown in fig2 the wafer lifting system includes a fixed portion 50 secured to the chamber bottom 38 . a movable portion 52 is coupled to the fixed portion to permit vertical reciprocation . the movable portion 52 includes three lift pins 54 on an elevator or “ spider plate ” 56 . the lift pins extend into and are received by holes 58 in the chamber bottom ( see , e . g ., fig9 ). to maintain a leak tight or vacuum condition , each pin 54 is carried within a bellows 60 ( fig2 ) sealed to the chamber bottom and to the elevator 56 . the movable portion 52 can be raised between a retracted position to an ex 25 tended position as described in further detail below . the fixed portion 50 includes a vertically oriented array of sensors 64 a , 64 b , 64 c and 64 d , mounted on a printed circuit board 65 . each sensor 64 a , 64 b , 64 c , 64 d includes a photoemitter and a detector for detecting light emitted by the respective photoemitter . a vertically oriented plate 66 is fixed to the movable portion 52 and positioned between the photoemitter and the detector of each sensor 64 a , 64 b , 64 c , 64 d . the plate bears a vertically elongated triggering aperture or slit 68 located to pass sequentially between the photoemitter and detector of each sensor 64 a , 64 b , 64 c , 64 d during vertical movement of the portion 52 . when the aperture 68 is aligned with a sensor 64 a - 64 d , the aperture permits transmission of light from the photoemitter of the sensor to the detector associated with that sensor . this transmission places the sensor in a positive state and causes the sensor to supply a specific input signal to a control system 100 ( fig1 ). the control system 100 can be a computer programmed with appropriate control software and coupled to the chamber 22 and robot 42 to control their respective operations . when no light is transmitted between the photoemitter and detector of a given sensor , the sensor is in a negative state and the specific signal is not present . the aperture 68 need not be exactly aligned with a sensor for the sensor to be in a positive state . a range of aperture positions are associated with each sensor and permit the transmission of sufficient light to place the sensor in the positive state . the aperture positions are associated with a range of heights of the pins , or , more precisely , the tips of the pins . the range of pin heights extends between a lower height h 1 and an upper height h 2 which correspond , respectively , to lower and upper aperture positions . the difference between these heights will depend upon the length of the aperture and the properties of the sensor . thus , there exist respective pairs of heights h a1 and h a2 ; h b1 and h b2 ; h c1 and h c2 ; and h d1 and h d2 for sensors 64 a , 64 b , 64 c , 64 d ( see fig2 ). the change in a sensor &# 39 ; s state caused by the lifting system moving the pins through any of these heights can be used to control the speed at which the lifting pins 54 are moved . in any given implementation , fewer or more sensors can be provided and can be utilized in different combinations to initiate and terminate various stages in the operation of the lift system 36 . for example , a single encoder . can be used with its output summed to provide position data or otherwise processed to provide position or velocity data . the portion 52 of the wafer lifting system 36 is moved relative to the fixed portion 50 by means of a slide 62 which , according to one embodiment , is controlled pneumatically . in the pneumatically controlled emodiment , the fixed portion 50 includes a pneumatic cylinder 72 ( fig4 - 8 ). a piston 74 within the pneumatic cylinder 72 is linked to the movable portion 52 so that vertical movement of the piston 74 produces an associated vertical movement of the movable portion 52 . the piston 74 divides the pneumatic cylinder 72 into an upper chamber 72 a and a lower chamber 72 b . a group of four 3 - way direct control valves 76 a , 76 b , 76 c , 76 d establishes selective communication between the cylinder chambers 72 a and 72 b on the one hand , and a pneumatic source 200 and the atmosphere ( atm ) on the other hand . exemplary valves can be direct - acting solenoid valves such as those available from precision dynamics , inc ., new britain , conn . each valve 76 a through 76 d has a respective primary port 78 a , 78 b , 78 c , 78 d , a normally closed port 80 a , 80 b , 80 c , 80 d , and a normally open port 82 a , 82 b , 82 c , 82 d . when a valve is in an unenergized state , communication is between the primary port and the normally open port . when the valve is in an energized state , communication is between the primary port and the normally closed port . optionally , some of the normally closed and normally open ports can have a throttle 84 for further restricting flow through the associated port . the setting of each throttle can be used to affect the speed at which the portion 52 moves . an exemplary throttle can be provided by a speed controller such as series as of smc pneumatics inc . in a first mode of operation ( fig4 ) referred to as an “ up fast ” mode , the valve 76 b is not energized and the remaining valves are energized . accordingly , the lower cylinder chamber 72 b is exposed to the pneumatic source 200 through the valves 76 c and 76 d in series . the upper cylinder chamber 72 a is vented to atmosphere through the valves 76 a and 76 b in series . when operated in the first mode , the pins 54 move upward at a velocity in a first velocity range . in a second mode ( fig5 ) designated the “ up slow ” 10 mode , flow is restricted compared to flow in the “ up fast ” mode . the valve 76 a is de - energizing so that the upper cylinder chamber 72 a communicates with the atmosphere through the valve 76 a and a throttle 84 a in series . the valves 76 c and 76 d remain energized , and the state of the valve 76 b is irrelevant . when operated in the second mode , the pins 54 move upward at a velocity in a second upward velocity range lower than the first upward velocity range . in a third or “ down fast ” mode ( fig6 ), the valves 76 a , 76 b , 76 c are energized while the valve 76 d is de - energized . the lower cylinder chamber 72 b communicates with the atmosphere through the valves 76 c and 76 d in series . the upper cylinder chamber 72 a communicates with the source 200 via the valves 76 a and 76 b and , optionally , a throttle 84 b in series . the throttle 84 b can be provided to compensate for acceleration of the movable portion 52 due to gravity . when operated in the third mode , the pins 54 move downward at a velocity in a first downward velocity range . in a fourth or “ down slow ” mode ( fig7 ), the upper cylinder chamber is exposed to the source 200 as in the “ down fast ” mode . the valve 76 c is de - energized so that the lower cylinder 72 b communicates with the atmosphere via the valve 76 c and a throttle 84 c . the state of the valve 76 d is immaterial . when operated in the fourth mode , the pins 54 move downward at a velocity in a second downward velocity range lower than the first downward velocity range . in a fifth or “ down unpowered ” mode ( fig8 ), both the upper and lower cylinder chambers 72 a and 72 b are vented to atmosphere through the pairs of valves 76 a , 76 b , 76 c , 76 d , respectively . in this mode , acceleration is caused by gravitational acceleration along with any stored energy such as from compression of the bellows 60 . in the following description , it is convenient to refer to various pin positions as follows . a fully retracted pin height ( h r ) is defined as a zero or reference height . in the fully retracted position h r , the upper ends of the pins 54 are accommodated within the holes in the chamber bottom so as to be shielded from the processes occurring in the chamber . in addition , h f is the height at which the pins engage a wafer held by the fixture or edge ring , h t is the height at which the pins engage a wafer held by the blade or other transfer element , and the fully extended height is h e . initially , the lift pins 54 may be in a retracted position at the reference height h r within the chamber bottom ( fig9 ). the wafer 24 is supported by the edge ring 34 . a process has been performed on the wafer , and the wafer must be exchanged for a fresh wafer . in a first stroke , the pins 54 are raised beyond the position shown in fig1 wherein the pins 54 initially engage the lower surface 28 of the wafer 24 at height h f . in a first stage of movement , the lifting system 36 raises the pins 54 in the up fast mode . during this stage , the aperture 68 permits light to pass between the photoemitter and detector of the lowermost sensor 64 a only . eventually , the pins 54 reach the intermediate height h b1 at which the aperture 68 permits light to pass between the photoemitter and detector of the lower middle sensor 64 b . the transmission of such light produces a signal from the sensor 64 b to the control system 100 causing the lifting system to be switched to the up slow mode during a second stage of movement . during the second stage , the pins 54 pass through the position shown in fig1 at the reduced speed to acquire the wafer 24 from the edge ring 34 . shortly thereafter , when the pins 54 reach the intermediate height h b2 , the aperture 68 passes beyond the sensor 64 b , no longer permitting the transmission of light between the photoemitter and detector of that sensor and terminating the input signal from that sensor . the termination of the input signal provided by the sensor 64 b to the control system 100 , causes the control system to return the lifting system to the up fast mode during a third stage of movement . prior to reaching the fully extended position or the peak in their travel at height h e , the pins 54 reach the intermediate height h d1 at which the aperture 68 first permits the transmission of light between the photoemitter and detector of the uppermost sensor 64 d to produce an input signal from that sensor to the control system 100 . the input from the uppermost sensor 640 causes the control system to return the lifting system to the up slow mode in a fourth stage of movement during the upstroke . this return to the up slow mode reduces any upward propulsion of the wafer when the pins reach their extended position at height h e ( fig1 ). with the pins 54 in the extended position , the blade 44 can be inserted below the wafer ( fig1 ). with the blade 44 in place beneath the wafer , the control system 100 initiates a downstroke of the lifting system . in a first stage of the downstroke , the lifting system is placed in the down unpowered mode . in that first stage , the pins 54 descend , depositing the wafer on the blade 44 at height h t ( fig1 ). after depositing the wafer on the blade 44 , the wafer lifting system and the pins 54 reach a height h c2 at which the aperture 68 permits light to pass between the photoemitter and detector of the upper middle sensor 64 c . the transmission of the light produces a signal from the sensor 64 c to the control system 100 causing the lifting system to be switched to the down fast mode in a second stage . shortly thereafter , the aperture 68 passes beyond the sensor 64 c with the pins at height h c1 ( fig1 ). light no longer passes between the photoemitter and the detector , and the input signal from the sensor 64 c is terminated . termination of the input signal causes the control system 100 to withdraw the robot end effector 44 and wafer from the chamber ( fig1 ), whereupon the wafer can be exchanged for a second , fresh wafer . in one implementation , the pins 54 and lifting system 36 continue to proceed downward to the retracted position . optionally , a brake ( not shown ) can be provided to hold the lifting system 36 in an intermediate position such as that shown in fig1 and 16 . use of the brake to hold the lifting system in the intermediate position can reduce the time required to return the pins 54 from the retracted position . at this point , the end effector 44 carrying a fresh wafer 24 ′ is introduced to the chamber 22 ( fig1 ) in substantially the same position as the wafer 24 in fig1 . with the end effector 44 and second wafer 24 ′ in position , a second upstroke is initiated . if the pins 54 have been lowered all the way to the reference height h r , then the lifting system 36 and pins are moved in the up fast mode . eventually , the pins 54 reach the intermediate height h c1 where the aperture 68 permits light to pass between the photoemitter and detector of the upper middle sensor 64 c . the transmission of such light produces a signal from the sensor 64 c to the control system 100 causing the lifting system 36 to be switched to the up slow mode in a second stage of movement . during the second stage , at the reduced speed , the pins 54 pass through the position shown in fig1 to acquire the substrate 24 ′ from the blade 44 . when the pins 54 and lifting system 36 reach the height h d1 ( fig1 ), an input signal from the uppermost sensor 64 d to the control system 100 causes the control system to withdraw the blade ( fig1 ), and a second downstroke is initiated . the second downstroke delivers the fresh substrate 24 ′ to the edge ring 34 for processing . in a first stage of movement , the lifting system 36 lowers the pins 54 in the down unpowered mode . as with the first downstroke , upon reaching the height h c2 , an input signal from the upper middle sensor 64 c to the control system 100 causes the control system to return the lifting system 36 to the down fast mode in a second stage of movement . prior to the wafer reaching the edge ring 34 , the pins reach the height hb 2 . at that height , the signal provided by the lower middle sensor 64 b to the control system 100 causes the control system to return the lifting system 36 to the down slow mode in a third stage of movement . during this third stage of movement , the pins 54 pass through the position shown in fig2 at the reduced speed to deposit the wafer 24 ′ onto the edge ring 34 at height h f . when the pins descend to the height h b1 , termination of the signal provided by the sensor 64 b to the control system 100 causes the control system to return the lifting system 36 to the down fast mode and also causes the control system to initiate rotation of the edge ring 34 . at the conclusion of this stage of movement , the pins reach the retracted position at the zero height h r ( fig2 ) and processing of the wafer is commenced . at the end of processing , rotation of the edge ring is stopped , and the wafer 24 ′ can be exchanged for yet another wafer by repetition of the process described above . in other implementations , the pneumatic slide and associated pneumatic hardware can be replaced by one or more position transducers for raising and lowering the pins . a single position transducer can be provided to lift all the lift pins or an individual position transducer can be associated with each lift pin . the position transducers may be used to provide a more precise control over motion of the lift pins than does the pneumatic system . use of position transducers can eliminate the need for a brake to hold the lift pins in a waiting position just below the height of the transfer element while one substrate is being removed from the chamber and replaced with another . in an alternative embodiment illustrated in fig2 - 23 , a motorized lead screw 114 can be used to drive the wafer lifting system 36 instead of the pneumatic system described above . the lead screw or other threaded rod 114 is inserted through a hole in the slide 62 and is driven by a stepper motor 102 with its own programmable driver 104 . the lead screw 114 is attached to the motor 102 by a flexible coupling 118 which can include torsion springs to improve alignment . a threaded nut 116 , which is attached to the slide 62 , is disposed about the lead screw 114 . a controller 130 , which is coupled to the control system 100 , can be connected by a cable 132 to a terminal strip 106 to control movement of the motor 102 . depending on the direction of rotation of the motor 102 , the lead screw 114 moves either upward or downward so as to move the lift pins 54 ( not shown in fig2 - 23 ) vertically up or down . the control system 130 , thus , controls the speed of the motor 102 to control the movement of the pins 54 . although the lift pins 54 are not shown in the motorized lead screw embodiment of fig2 - 23 , the pins are movably inserted and extend through the elevator or “ spider plate ” 56 in the same manner as described above with respect to fig2 . in one particular embodiment , a pk264m - 02b stepper motor , a csd2120 - t stepper driver , and an sc 8800 controller , all of which are manufactured by oriental motors co . of japan , can be used as the motor 102 , the driver 104 and the controller 130 , respectively . in the illustrated implementation , each step represents a rotation of 0 . 9 degrees of the stepper motor 102 , and the pins 54 move vertically about 0 . 2 inches for each complete revolution of the motor , in other words , for every 400 steps . additionally , an inertia damper 108 , such as a metal disk , can be provided below the motor 102 to improve the smoothness of acceleration and deceleration . a vertically oriented array of sensors 110 a , 110 b , 110 c , 110 d and 110 e is mounted on a printed circuit board 120 which is attached to the fixed portion 50 by a bracket et 134 . each sensor 110 a through 110 e includes a photoemitter and a detector for detecting light emitted by the respective photoemitter . in the implementation of fig2 - 23 , the sensor array is formed as two columns of sensors , with the lowermost sensor 110 a and the uppermost sensor 110 e offset horizontally somewhat from the other sensors 110 b , 110 c and 110 d . a shutter or plate 112 with two vanes 124 a , 124 b is fixed to the movable portion 52 so that one or the other of the vanes can be positioned between the photoemitter and the detector of each sensor 110 a through 110 e as the movable portion moves vertically up or down . the vanes 124 a , 124 b can prevent the transmission of light between the photoemitter - detector pairs of the sensors 110 a through 112 e . signals from the sensors 110 a through 110 e are provided to the controller 130 and / or the control system 100 to determine or confirm the vertical position of the pins 54 . specifically , outputs from the sensors 110 a , 110 c and 110 e are coupled to the controller 130 , and outputs from the sensors 110 b , 110 c , and 110 d are coupled to the control system 100 . occlusion of the sensor 110 c represents a “ home ” position in which the pins extend above the edge ring 34 to a reference height h h ( see , e . g ., fig2 ). occlusion of the sensor 110 b indicates that the pins 54 are in their fully retracted position within the holes 58 in the chamber bottom ( see , e . g ., fig3 ). in the fully retracted position , the pins 54 are at a height h r . similarly , occlusion of the sensor 110 d indicates that the pins 54 are in their fully extended position above the blade 44 of the robot 42 ( see , e . g ., fig2 ). in the fully extended position , the pins 54 are at a height h e . in the implementation of fig2 - 23 , the distance between the sensors 110 b and 110 c is approximately 2 , 700 steps , in other words , about 1 . 35 inches . similarly , the distance between the sensors 110 c and 110 d is approximately 2 , 100 steps , or about 1 . 05 inches . the lowermost and uppermost sensors 110 a and 110 e can be used to limit movement of the motor 102 in the clockwise and counter - clockwise directions . the sensors 110 a and 110 e , therefore , can be used as a safety feature to prevent damage to the motor 102 . the sensors 110 a and 110 e also can be used to allow the system to find the “ home ” position more quickly when the system is turned on in the event that the motor 102 initially is rotated in the wrong direction . in general , the motor 102 is controlled to raise or lower the lift pins 54 at varying velocities to optimize the throughput of the chamber 22 without damaging the wafers . in a first mode , the pins 54 are moved upward at a velocity in a first upward velocity range . in the illustrated implementation , the first upward velocity range is between about 4 , 000 and about 8 , 000 steps per second , in other words , about 2 . 0 inches to about 4 . 0 inches per second . in a second mode , the pins are moved upward at a velocity in a second upward velocity range . in the illustrated implementation , the second upward velocity range is between about 500 and about 1 , 000 steps per second , in other words , about 0 . 25 inches to about 0 . 5 inches per second . thus , in the illustrated implementation , the first upward velocity is at least about four times at great as the second upward velocity . in a third mode , the pins 54 are moved downward at a velocity in a first downward velocity range . in the illustrated implementation , the first downward velocity range is between about 4 , 000 and about 8 , 000 steps per second , in other words , about 2 . 0 inches to about 4 . 0 inches per second . in a fourth mode , the pins are moved downward at a velocity in a second downward velocity range . in the illustrated implementation , the second downward velocity range is between about 500 and about 1 , 000 steps per second , in other words , about 0 . 25 inches to about 0 . 5 inches per second . thus , in the illustrated implementation , the first downward velocity is at least about four times at great as the second downward velocity . the slower second and fourth modes can be used , for example , just prior to transferring a wafer to or from either the robot blade 44 or the edge ring 34 . slowing the pins 54 at such critical times can help prevent damage to the wafer . similarly , the second mode can be used just prior to reaching the fully extended height h h to prevent the wafer from bouncing as movement of the pins 54 is stopped . the faster first and third modes can be used at other times to increase the throughput of the chamber 22 . referring to fig2 - 35 , operation of the motorized lead screw embodiment of the wafer lifting system 36 is explained . when power is provided to the controller 130 , the controller moves the pins 54 to their “ home ” position so that the upper tips of the pins are at the height h h ( fig2 ). as indicated previously , the output of the sensor 110 c is used to determine when the pins 54 are in the “ home ” position . in one implementation , once the pins 54 reach the “ home ” position , the motor 102 is controlled to move the pins downward an additional predetermined number of steps , for example , 200 steps . the robot blade 44 supporting a substrate or wafer 24 ″ to be processed then is inserted into the chamber 22 ( fig2 ). the wafer 24 ″ has an upper surface 26 ″ and a lower surface 28 ″. the controller 130 causes the motor 102 to rotate at a velocity in the first upward velocity range so as to move the pins 54 toward the wafer 24 ″ supported by the robot blade 44 . in the illustrated embodiment , the motor 102 is rotated at about 6 , 000 steps per second so that the pins 54 move upward at about 3 . 0 inches per second . as the pins 54 near the lower surface 28 ″ of the wafer 24 ″, the motor is momentarily stopped . the controller 130 then causes the motor 102 to rotate at a velocity in the second upward velocity range so that the pins 54 contact the underside of the wafer 24 ″ at a lower velocity . in the illustrated embodiment , the motor is rotated at about 1 , 000 steps per second so that the pins 54 contact the underside of the wafer 24 ″ at a speed of about 0 . 5 inched per second ( fig2 ). the motor 102 then is accelerated until it rotates at a velocity in the second upward range , for example , about 4 , 000 steps per second , to move the pins 54 supporting the wafer 24 ″ upward at a speed of about 2 . 0 inches per second . as the pins 54 approach their fully extended height h e above the robot blade 44 , the motor 102 is slowed to a velocity in the second upward range , for example , about 500 steps per second , to move the wafer 24 ″ upward at about 0 . 25 inched per second . when the controller 130 determines that the pins 54 have reached the extended height h e ( fig2 ) based on the number of steps the motor 102 has rotated , the motor is stopped . the controller 130 then checks the output of the sensor 110 d to confirm that the pins 54 are , in fact , in the fully extended position . the robot blade 44 is removed from the chamber ( fig2 ). next , the controller 130 causes the motor 102 to move the pins 54 supporting the wafer 24 ″ downward toward the edge ring 34 . initially , the motor rotates slowly , for example , at a speed of about 500 steps per second , to move the pins downward at a velocity of about 0 . 25 inches per second . the rotation of the motor 102 then is accelerated to a velocity in the first downward range , for example , about 6 , 000 steps per second to lower the pins 54 and the wafer 24 ″ at about 3 . 0 inches per second . as the lower surface 28 ″ of the wafer 24 ″ approaches the edge ring 34 , the speed of the motor 102 is slowed to a velocity in the second downward range , for example , about 1 , 000 steps per second . the wafer 24 ″ is , therefore , transferred to the edge ring 34 ( fig2 ) as the lift pins 54 move at about 0 . 5 inches per second . once the wafer 24 ″ is transferred to the edge ring 34 , the motor 102 is controlled to rotate at a velocity in the first downward range , for example , about 8 , 000 steps per second , to lower the pins 54 to their fully retracted position h r ( fig3 ) at a speed of about 4 . 0 inches per second . the motor 102 is stopped , and the position of the lift pins 54 within the holes 58 in the chamber bottom is confirmed by checking the output of the sensor 110 b . the wafer 24 ″ then can be processed . following processing of the wafer 24 ″, the motor 102 is controlled to rotate at a velocity in the first upward range , for example , about 7 , 000 steps per second , to raise the pins 54 toward the wafer supported by the edge ring 34 at about 3 . 5 inches per second . as the pins 54 approach the edge ring 34 , the motor 102 is slowed to a speed in the second upward range , for example , about 1 , 000 steps per second , to raise the pins into engagement with the lower surface 28 ″ of the wafer 24 ″ ( fig3 ). the motor 102 is stopped momentarily . next , the motor 102 is accelerated to rotate initially at about 500 steps per second and then to a speed in the first upward range , for example , about 5 , 000 steps per second , to raise the pins 54 and the processed wafer 24 ″ toward the fully extended position h e at a speed of about 2 . 5 inches per second . as the lift pins 54 approach the fully extended position h e the motor 102 is decelerated to a velocity in the second upward range , for example , about 500 steps per second , to raise the pins to the position h e ( fig3 ) at a speed of about 0 . 25 inches per second . the motor 102 then is stopped , and the controller 130 verifies the position of the pins 54 by checking the output of the sensor 110 d . next , the robot blade 44 is inserted into the chamber below the processed wafer 24 ″ supported by the lift pins 54 ( fig3 ). with the robot blade 44 positioned below the raised pins 54 , the controller 130 accelerates the motor 102 to lower the pins 54 and the processed wafer 24 ″. initially , the motor 102 is rotated at a speed of about 500 steps per second . subsequently , the motor 102 is rotated at a speed in the first downward range , for example , about 5 , 000 steps per second to lower the processed wafer 24 ″ toward the robot blade 44 at a speed of about 2 . 5 inches per second . as the lower surface 28 ″ of the wafer 24 ″ approaches the robot blade 44 , the motor 102 is slowed to a speed in the second downward range , for example , about 1 , 000 steps per second , to transfer the processed wafer 24 ″ to the blade 44 at a speed of about 0 . 5 inches per second ( fig3 ). once the processed wafer 24 ″ is transferred to the robot blade 44 , the motor 102 is momentarily stopped . the controller 130 then causes the motor 102 to rotate at a speed in the first downward velocity range , for example , about 7 , 000 steps per second , to lower the lift pins 54 to their “ home ” position at a height h h ( fig3 ). the controller 130 confirms that the pins 54 are in the “ home ” position by checking the output of the sensor 110 c . with the pins 54 in the “ home ” position , the processed wafer 24 ″ supported by the robot blade 44 can be removed from the chamber . a new wafer to be processed then can be brought into the chamber and the cycle begun again . as described above , the stepper motor 102 allows the acceleration and deceleration of the lead screw 114 to be controlled precisely so as to obtain a highly repeatable technique for controlling movement of the lift pins 54 . in this manner , movement of a wafer in the process chamber 22 can be optimized to increase the throughput of the chamber , reduce the likelihood of damage to the wafer , and reduce bouncing of the wafer while supported by the lift pins 54 . some of the details of the foregoing embodiments are particularly suited for particular processing chambers , such as the rtp centura xe ™, manufactured by applied materials , inc . different dimensions and pin speeds may be suitable for other substrate processing systems and chambers . | US-18887298-A |
high - efficiency combustion engines , including otto cycle engines , use a steam - diluted fuel charge at elevated pressure . air is compressed , and water is evaporated into the compressed air via the partial pressure effect using waste heat from the engine . the resultant pressurized air - steam mixture then burned in the engine with fuel , preferably containing hydrogen to maintain flame front propagation . the high - pressure , steam - laden engine exhaust is used to drive an expander to provide additional mechanical power . the exhaust can also be used to reform fuel to provide hydrogen for the engine combustion . the engine advantageously uses the partial pressure effect to convert low - grade waste heat from engine into useful mechanical power . the engine is capable of high efficiencies , with minimal emissions . | referring to the schematic illustration of fig1 , it will be more clearly understood how the combination of steam generation , hydrogen generation , stoichiometric air combustion , and elevated dew point water recycle synergistically work together in an engine of the invention . the turbocharger compounded engine of this example uses exhaust reforming and steam generation via the partial pressure effect from the waste heat temperature sinks of the engine . the latent energy of this waste heat is transferred to the pressurized air of the engine , where it can be used for power generation . the following example contains specific amounts of inputs and values of variables ( temperature , pressure , etc ) in order to provide an example of the efficiency improvement possible with the present invention . these specific examples are not to be taken as limiting the scope of the invention . as shown in fig1 , the otto cycle engine includes a compressor 200 , which is preferably a two - stage compressor . at state 1 ( i . e . s 1 ), an air flow 204 inducted from the atmosphere and consisting of 774 lbs / hr ( 1 lb = 0 . 456 kg ; 1 hr = 3600 sec .) is compressed by the compressor 200 to 4 atm . the air temperature rises to about 410 ° f . ( ca . 210 ° c . ), assuming a 75 % efficiency of the compressor and power consumption of 18 kw . starting with the induction air 204 , water for vaporization in the air is added in three separate steps in this example ( in other embodiments , water can be added in more or fewer steps ). first , an initial water input 202 is added sometime before , during , or preferably after compression to yield , at the compressor outlet 206 , a pressurized fluid stream at state 2 ( s 2 ), wherein t = 250 ° f ., leading to 25 lbs . of water being evaporated into the stream . at s 2 , the degree of saturation of the air by water , w s = 0 . 0323 , the dew point , t s = 141 ° f ., and the partial pressure of steam , p s = 2 . 9 psia . ( 1 psi = ca . 7 kpa ). after exiting the compressor 200 , the moist air at s 2 enters a first partial pressure boiler 210 for counter flow heat exchange with the turbine exhaust 238 . before or at the entrance to the partial pressure boiler 210 , a second water addition is made at 208 . heat transferred from the engine exhaust evaporates or boils about 240 lbs . of additional water into the 774 lbs . of air ( plus 25 lbs of water ) at 4 atm pressure , raising the air dew point from about t s = 139 ° to t s = 230 ° f ., and the saturation , w s , to 0 . 34 , resulting in a total of 265 lbs . of steam present in the original 774 lbs . of compressed air at 212 , ( state s 3 ). the heavily moisture laden exhaust , from which heat transfer has been made , drops from about 952 ° f . at the inlet of the partial pressure boiler to a temperature of about 250 ° to 300 ° f ., ( ca . 120 to 150 ° c . ), typically with a small amount of water condensation ( state 9 ; location at 240 ). in this example , a third steam addition is made between states s 3 ( at 212 ) and s 4 ( at 219 ), accompanied by heat transfer from an engine cooling loop . in the particular embodiment illustrated , this is done through direct contact transfer , under partial pressure conditions , of heat from the water cooling loop of the engine . engine cooling water 218 , which may be the primary coolant or may be a secondary loop heated by a primary coolant loop ( such as , for example , a primary loop containing antifreeze ), is injected into a second partial pressure boiler 214 , for example by spraying , and equilibrated with the air / steam mixture 212 entering from the first boiler 210 ( s 3 ). spraying may be replaced or supplemented by other methods of mixing vapor and liquid , including passage over columns of porous materials ( as in distillation ), by thin film evaporation , etc . any of the known methods and apparatus that are operable at these temperatures and pressures , and preferably ones which are physically compact , can be used . the exiting stream at 219 ( s 4 ) has acquired about 156 lbs . of additional steam , generated by evaporation as the engine coolant is cooled from 280 ° f . to about 260 ° f . the air / steam enters the engine inlet 220 at about ts = 244 ° f . carrying about 421 lbs . of steam . non - evaporated coolant is returned to the engine via conduit 216 . engine cooling water ( primary or secondary ) is kept at a constant volume by the addition of water into the cooling loop ; illustration of this step is omitted for clarity . note that this particular heat - mass transfer process , in addition to exhaust heat transfer , is one characteristic of this system to provide high efficiency . here , a heat source temperature capable of producing , in a closed rankine steam cycle , only about a one atm pressure drop through a turbine , has been used to raise the power availability to 3 atm pressure drop by the mechanism of boiling water in air — a “ partial pressure ” benefit . a burden is created in that the evaporated water will eventually need to be recovered from the engine exhaust using a condensing radiator . this burden is partially offset later , however , by gains in cycle power and efficiency . at state s 4 , the air / steam mixture 219 comprises the original 774 lb air charge at 4 atm ., and now further contains over 421 lbs . steam , with saturation w s = 0 . 546 , and t s = 244 ° f . the air / steam mixture has captured a substantial portion of the engine &# 39 ; s waste heat . this steam / air mixture 219 is now combined with the fuel , preferably at an essentially stoichiometric ratio . the fuel has also been partially reformed , as described below . at state s 5 , the engine receives an inlet charge of chemically correct fuel - air , with 54 . 6 % mass dilution with steam , or with specific heat corrections , about 100 % of thermal dilution — the pressure equivalent of operating an engine at 200 % of stoichiometric air charge . multiplying the fuel heating value by 1 . 12 ( due to the effects of the endothermic reforming reaction described below ) yields an equivalent f / f c = 0 . 56 ( where f / f c equals the fuel - to - air ratio , f , divided by the chemically correct fuel - to - air ratio f c . f c is 1 for a normally aspirated engine , but is 0 . 5 here because of the steam dilution .) operation under these conditions is difficult without having hydrogen as part of the fuel charge to provide good flame front propagation . additional benefits of the high steam content include a fuel - air cycle efficiency of approximately 47 %, a steam corrected compression ratio equivalent r = 8 , and at most only trace levels of nox emissions . peak cycle temperature t 3 in the combustion chamber is around 4300 ° r . at the end of the power stroke before exhausting and blowdown , the combustion temperature is calculated as being about 2400 ° r . ( ca 1940 ° f . ; ca . 1060 ° c .). because the elevated exhaust pressure of 4 atm limits blowdown , the actual exhaust temperature is closer than usual to the calculated value . exhaust manifold temperature is around 2100 ° r . ( ca . 900 ° c .). the engine consumes essentially the entire stoichiometric oxygen charge , generating an additional 101 lbs of steam . the engine exhaust 222 at state s 6 is p = 4 atm , t = 2100 ° r . ( ca . 1640 ° f . ; ca . 900 ° c . ), with the gas now containing 717 lbs of co 2 and n 2 ( and no significant oxygen content ), 522 lbs of steam , and a saturation , w s , of 0 . 728 . per mole of methane or equivalent supplied , the exhaust has a molar composition of about 1 co 2 , 7 . 52 n 2 , and 10 h 2 o . this is five times the steam generated by normal stoichiometric combustion with no diluent . the exhaust is loaded with thermal mass and steam , and is suitable for use for turbine power and optionally for steam reforming . in a preferred mode , between s 6 ( 222 ) and s 7 ( 230 ) about 10 % of this exhaust is diverted at 228 and mixed with the incoming fuel from point 226 ( which is treated as if it were ch 4 for simplicity of calculation ). this mixture is introduced into an “ exhaust reformer ” 224 that is heated by thermal transfer from the remaining exhaust stream . the reaction between the exhaust and the fuel in the exhaust reformer is preferably accelerated by a reforming catalyst . in an alternative embodiment , illustrated in fig2 , which is otherwise identically numbered , the steam required for partial fuel reforming is supplied by a full pressure boiler 260 supplied by water from a source 262 . heat from the expanded exhaust 238 creates steam , which is conveyed through conduit 264 to mix with the fuel 226 at or near the entrance to the exhaust reformer 224 . given a desired 50 % methane slip in the reforming reaction , the overall reaction is , on a molar basis : after the fuel reforming , the exhaust temperature drops by about 261 ° f ., yielding 1380 ° f . at s 7 , point 230 , but the heating value of the fuel has been increased by about 12 % by the endothermic conversion of methane and water ( and absorbed heat ) to hydrogen and carbon monoxide . returning to the engine , an efficiency number can now be calculated for this example . before this , however , one more parameter should be considered . the engine , when normally aspirated ( i . e ., not pressurized ), classically runs at 85 % mechanical efficiency . the present engine operates with a dilute charge , which reduces power per unit air by about 50 %. in compensation , the induction pressure may be increased to 4 atm , which increases power by about 3 . 7 times when corrected for manifold temperature . in addition , 12 % heating value is added by reforming . so the nominal indicated power is approximately doubled with essentially the same engine friction and parasitics . hence , an engine that would normally be rated at 50 kw can produce 114 kw , without premature detonation in the cylinders due to the suppressive effect of the steam . from standard fuel - air cycle curves , with heating value correction , 85 % cycle performance efficiency , and 90 % mechanical efficiency , there is a 47 %× 1 . 12 × 0 . 85 × 0 . 9 = 40 . 2 % efficiency , at this point in the cycle , compared to a 36 % efficiency without the features of the partial pressure boiling cycle . the increase in efficiency is believed to be in large part due to a combination of the successful dilute combustion at pressure , the recycling of exhaust heat via reforming , and the capture of waste heat as steam . ( note that in this example , the engine efficiency has increased to 40 % even before expansion of the exhaust ). the exhaust at 230 , state s 7 , optionally and preferably travels through a cleanup catalyst 232 at about 1300 ° f . and 4 atm for hydrocarbon emission prevention , which is still likely to be required . note that if nox reduction is desired , the well - known three - way catalyst commonly used in automobile applications can be used here to further reduce nox , because the exhaust has the required chemically correct ( i . e . nearly oxygen - free ) constitution . this is in contrast to diesels , gas turbines , and some fuel - cell burners , which cannot use inexpensive catalysts because there is significant oxygen in the exhaust stream . between state s 7 ( at 230 ) and state s 8 ( at 238 ), an expander 234 , here a turbine , expands the exhaust gas and steam charge from about 4 atm to about 1 atm at about 85 % efficiency . the temperature drop is about 454 ° f ., leaving about 952 ° f . as the temperature of the remaining exhaust at 238 . in this example , the turbine produces an output power of 59 kw ( where the turbine power is equal to the temperature drop multiplied by the sum of the ( mass flow × specific heat ) for each of the exhaust gases — i . e . 454 δt ×[( 123 × 0 . 4 ) co2 +( 594 × 0 . 24 ) n2 +( 522 × 0 . 5 ) h2o ]/ 0 . 3412 ( conversion factor ) = 59 kw .) this 59 kw power output more than compensates for the power required for air compression , which is about 18 kw . the turbine may optionally be used to drive the air compressor 200 , and produces excess power through generator 236 . generator 236 can optionally be a motor / generator , using electric power from a battery to start up the system ; or , a compressor / motor and a turbine / generator can be separate units ( not illustrated ), with a slight loss of efficiency . in addition , or as an alternative to the use of a generator , the output power of the turbine can be directly added to the engine power output , such as by direct addition of the torque of the turbine to that of the engine shaft , by a spur wheel attachment , for instance . in state s 8 , at point 238 , the exhaust is at about t = 952 ° f . ( about 500 ° c . ), water saturation of the gas stream w s is 522 / 717 = 0 . 728 , and thus dew point = 182 ° f ., and pressure = 1 atm . this gas enters the first partial pressure boiler 210 for heat transfer to the charge of induction air mixed with water . recall previously that the partial pressure effect means that boiling or evaporation begins with the induction air inlet at t s = about 140 ° f ., and ends with t s = 228 ° f . with adequate heat exchange area , the steam generation quantity stated before , about 240 lbs in the induction air , is conservative considering the sensible temperature drop of the exhaust gas . in fact , exhaust gas condensing would occur with an exhaust exit temperature of even 165 ° f . thus , if half the exhaust water condensed , it would add in theory twice the boiling heat flux into the induction air / water mixture that was assumed above . hence , the above calculations are definitely conservative in terms of the amount of heat that can be recovered as steam . finally , at state s 9 the exhaust enters the condensing radiator 244 , which has a fan 246 , for working fluid ( water ) recycle . since the system is operated at a chemically correct stoichiometry , the output temperature at the final exhaust state s 10 at 248 can be as high as 132 ° f . and still produce water balance , i . e ., deposit enough water in the water recycle collector 242 to provide the water that is added to the compressed air at 202 , 208 and 214 . ( the water recycling system , which will include at least one pump , and may include a water purification apparatus , is not illustrated .) if feasible , a lower exhaust exit temperature is preferred . since the exhaust enters the radiator at t s = 165 ° f . or above , heat transfer is “ wet ”, i . e ., the radiator tubes contacting the exhaust have a coating of water , and so is high rate and non - corrosive , which favors durability of the radiator . the final result of the partial pressure hybrid otto cycle engine of this example is as follows : it will be understood that various modifications can be made to the system described above without departing from the scope of the invention . for example , in the embodiment described above , the engine coolant water is evaporated into the pressurized air - steam stream in a separate partial pressure boiler . however , in other embodiments , the engine coolant can be boiled in the engine block itself , at saturation , so that a two - phase steam / water mixture is introduced into the already humidified air . in this way , even more evaporation can be obtained , putting more steam into the cylinders . also , it is important to ensure that the dew point in the exhaust is high enough to permit efficient water recovery . when ambient temperatures are low , for example 25 ° c . or less , then condensation of water from a 60 ° c . exhaust stream is easy to achieve . however , when ambient temperatures reach higher temperatures , such as 40 ° c ., water recovery becomes more difficult . the usual solution to this problem is to size the radiator for the worst expected case of ambient temperature , but this can be awkward and expensive , especially in a mobile system . because the system of the present invention is pressurized , an alternative approach can be used . at high ambient temperatures , a backpressure can be selectively imposed on exhaust outlet 248 by , for example , a flow - restricting variable valve 270 . the backpressure raises the dew point of the exhaust stream ( because the saturation volumetric concentration of water in air decreases with increasing air pressure ), thus making the water in the exhaust more easily recoverable . for example , if a system is operated at 4 atmospheres , a backpressure of 0 . 5 atmospheres can increase the dew point by 10 to 20 ° c ., which allows efficient recovery at higher ambient temperatures without increase of radiator size . there is a penalty for the backpressure in terms of decreased system efficiency , since there is less pressure drop through the expander . however , back pressure can be regulated to be the minimum required to recover sufficient water under ambient conditions , thus allowing the system — for example , in an automobile — to operate under various temperature and climatic conditions while maintaining the maximum efficiency possible under those conditions . the “ joint cycle ” engine of the invention can be operated with or without a conventional closed - loop radiator for the engine cooling system , in addition to the condensing radiator for the engine exhaust described above . a conventional radiator may not be necessary , for instance , where a sufficient amount of the engine waste heat can be recovered by evaporation of water into pressurized air . the above worked example uses an otto cycle engine as a basis for improvement . heat energy recovery is also applicable to other types of prime movers , although the efficiency gains may be smaller . for example , a similar arrangement can in principle be used in a diesel engine . the increase in efficiency would likely be smaller , because the diesel is already more efficient in terms of combustion temperatures , is typically already pressurized to some extent , and will be adversely affected in its compression by a charge containing a high level of steam . however , an efficiency benefit of recovering heat energy from the exhaust and optionally from the engine coolant by using the heat to make steam in pressurized air , and converting this heat energy to mechanical energy via an expander , is still applicable . the invention may also be particularly advantageous when used for applications having a constant operating speed , such as a hybrid ( gas / battery ) car engine , and certain types of domestic co - generation systems . in these cases , the turbine can be optimized for the operating speed of the engine . while this invention has been particularly shown and described with references to preferred embodiments thereof , it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention encompassed by the appended claims . | US-98896004-A |
the invention relates to an insecticidal protein , its gene encoding and the uses thereof . the protein comprises : a protein consisting of an amino acid sequence shown by seq id no : 2 or a sequence of amino acid residuses at positions 1 to 640 thereof ; or a protein derived from by substitution , deletion , or addition of one or more amino acid residuses of the amino acid sequences in , and having insecticidal activity ; or a protein generated by the expression of nucleic acid molecules containing a sequence of amino acid residuses at the positions 1 to 1920 of seq id no : 1 ; or a protein generated by the expression of nucleic acid molecules containing a complementary sequence that hybridized with the sequence of nucleotides at the positions 1 to 1920 of seq id no : 1 under stringent conditions . the protein has high expression level and strong toxicity against pests . | the technical solution of the insecticidal protein , the gene encoding the insecticidal protein and use thereof in the invention will be further described below with reference to the examples . the amino acid sequence ( 650 amino acids ) of pic9 insecticidal protein is shown by seq id no : 2 in the sequence list ; a nucleotide sequence ( 1953 nucleotides ), which codes the amino acid sequence ( 650 amino acids ) corresponding to the pic9 insecticidal protein , is acquired according to the preferred codons of maize , shown by seq id no : 1 in the sequence list . the use of the preferred codons of maize can be seen on the internet . 2 . synthesis of pic9 nucleotide sequence : the pic9 nucleotide sequence ( shown by seq id no : 1 in the sequence list ) is synthesized by nanjing genscript biotechnology co ., ltd . ; the 5 ′ terminal of the synthesized pic9 nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 1 ) is further connected with asci enzyme cutting site , and the 3 ′ terminal of the pic9 nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 1 ) is further connected with spei enzyme cutting site . meanwhile , synthesis of pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence ( shown by seq id no : 6 in the sequence list ) is characterized in that asn at the position 637 of the pic9 amino acid sequence ( shown by seq id no : 2 in the sequence list ) is replaced by asp ; the 5 ′ terminal of the synthesized pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 6 ) is further connected with asci enzyme cutting site , and the 3 ′ terminal of the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 6 ) is further connected with spei enzyme cutting site . meanwhile , synthesis of pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence ( shown by seq id no : 7 in the sequence list ) is characterized in that amino acids at positions 641 to 650 of the pic9 amino acid sequence ( shown by seq id no : 2 in the sequence list ) are deleted ; the 5 ′ terminal of the synthesized pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 7 ) is further connected with asci enzyme cutting site , and the 3 ′ terminal of the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 7 ) is further connected with spei enzyme cutting site . meanwhile , synthesis of pic9 added nucleotide sequence ( shown by seq id no : 8 in the sequence list ) is characterized in that 5 amino acids , ser , thr , asn , gln and leu , are added behind position 650 of the pic9 amino acid sequence ( shown by seq id no : 2 in the sequence list ); the 5 ′ terminal of the synthesized pic9 added nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 8 ) is further connected with asci enzyme cutting site , and the 3 ′ terminal of the pic9 added nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 8 ) is further connected with spei enzyme cutting site . in addition , synthesis of nucleotide sequence ( shown by seq id no : 3 in the sequence list ) of optimized pic9 - ab heterozygous insecticidal protein is characterized in that at the end of the pic9 amino acid sequence ( shown by seq id no : 2 in the sequence list ), an amino acid sequence of cry1ab gene is connected , and the resultant pic9 - ab amino acid sequence is shown by seq id no : 4 in the sequence list . the amino acid sequence of cry1ab gene is selected from positions 630 to 678 of the amino acid sequence of natural cry1ab25 gene with the sequence number aei71571 . 1 registered by li , h . et al . in 2011 , wherein the amino acid sequence of natural cry1ab25 gene is shown by seq id no : 5 in the sequence list . the 5 ′ terminal of the synthesized pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 3 ) is further connected with asci enzyme cutting site , and the 3 ′ terminal of the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 3 ) is further connected with spei enzyme cutting site . 1 . construction of recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t containing pic9 nucleotide sequence the synthesized pic9 nucleotide sequence is connected into cloning vector pgem - t ( promega , madison , usa , cat : a3600 ) according to the instruction of pgem - t vector product from promega company , thus recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t is obtained , and the construction flow is shown in fig1 ( wherein , amp represents penbritin - resistant gene ; f1 represents the replacation origin of phage f1 ; lacz is lacz initiation codon ; sp6 is sp6 rna polymerase promoter ; t7 is t7 rna polymerase promoter ; pic9 is pic9 nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 1 ); and mcs is multi - cloning site ). then , the recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t is transformed into e . coli t1 competent cell ( transgen , beijing , china ; cat . no : cd501 ) by heat shock under the following conditions : putting 50 μl e . coli t1 competent cell and 10 μl plasmid dna ( recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t ) in water bath at 42 ° c . for 30 seconds ; then putting them in water bath at 37 ° c . for 1 hour ( on a shaking bed at a speed of 100 rpm ), growing them overnight on an lb plate ( 10 g / l tryptone , 5 g / l yeast extract , 10 g / l nacl , 15 g / l agar , ph is regulated to 7 . 5 by naoh ) containing penbritin ( 100 mg / l ) and coated with x - gal ( 5 - bromo - 4 - chloro - 3 - indole - beta - d - galactoside ) on the surface . picking white colonies and then culturing them overnight in an lb liquid medium ( 10 g / l tryptone , 5 g / l yeast extract , 10 g / l nacl , 100 mg / l penbritin , ph is regulated to 7 . 5 by naoh ) at 37 ° c . extracting plasmids from the white colonies by alkaline process : centrifuging the bacterial liquid at 12000 rpm for 1 minute , removing supernatant , suspending deposited bacteria with 100 μl pre - cooled icy solution i ( 25 mm tris - hcl , 10 mm edta ( ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid ), 50 mm glucose , ph 8 . 0 ); adding 150 μl newly - prepared solution ii ( 0 . 2m naoh , 1 % sds ( sodium dodecyl sulfate )), reversing the tube for four times to mix the substances in the tube , and putting the tube on ice for 3 to 5 minutes ; adding 150 μl icy solution iii ( 4m potassium acetate , 2m acetic acid ), fully and uniformly mixturing the substances in the tube at once , and putting the tube on ice for 5 to 10 minutes ; centrifuging the tube at 12000 rpm for 5 minutes at 4 ° c ., adding absolute ethanol of 2 × volume to supernatant , uniformly mixed , and then letting the mixture stand for 5 minutes at room temperature ; centrifuging the mixture at 12000 rpm for 5 minutes at 4 ° c . to remove the supernatant , washing the deposit with ethanol of 70 wt % and then drying the deposit in the air ; adding 30 μl te ( 10 mm tris - hcl , 1 mm edta , ph 8 . 0 ) containing rnase ( 20 μg / ml ) to dissolve the deposit ; putting them in water bath at 37 ° c . for 30 minutes to digest rna ; and preserving them at − 20 ° c . for future use . positive colonies are confirmed by sequencing after the extracted plasmids are subjected to asci and spei enzyme cleave identification , and the result shows that the pic9 nucleotide sequence , inserted into the recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t , is the nucleotide sequence shown by seq id no : 1 in the sequence list , indicating that the pic9 nucleotide sequence is correctly inserted . according to the method for constructing recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t , the synthesized pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence is connected into cloning vector pgem - t to obtain recombinant cloning vector dbn02 - t , wherein mipic9 is pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 6 ). the correct substitution of the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence in recombinant cloning vector dbn02 - t is identified through enzyme cleave and sequencing . according to the method for constructing recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t , the synthesized pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence is connected into cloning vector pgem - t to obtain recombinant cloning vector dbn03 - t , wherein mdpic9 is pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 7 ). the correct insertion of the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence in recombinant cloning vector dbn03 - t is identified through enzyme cleave and sequencing . according to the method for constructing recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t , the synthesized pic9 added nucleotide sequence is connected into cloning vector pgem - t to acquire recombinant cloning vector dbn04 - t , wherein mapic9 is pic9 added nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 8 ). the correct insertion of the pic9 added nucleotide sequence in recombinant cloning vector dbn04 - t is identified through enzyme cleave and sequencing . according to the method for constructing recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t , the synthesized pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence is connected into cloning vector pgem - t to acquire recombinant cloning vector dbn05 - t , wherein pic9 - ab is nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 3 ) of heterozygous insecticidal protein . the correct insertion of the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence in recombinant cloning vector dbn05 - t is identified through enzyme cleave and sequencing . 2 . construction of recombinant expression vector dbn100147 containing pic9 nucleotide sequence recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t and expression vector dbnbc - 01 ( vector backbone : pcambia2301 ( which can be offered by cambia institution )) are cut by restriction endonucleases asci and spei , respectively . the pic9 nucleotide sequence segments that are cut off are inserted between the asci site and the spei site of expression vector dbnbc - 01 . as the construction of vector by conventional enzyme cutting methods is acknowledged by those skilled in this art , the asci and spei enzyme cutting sites in expression vector dbnbc - 01 are also introduced by conventional enzyme cutting method so as to construct recombinant expression vector dbn100147 . the construction flow is shown in fig2 ( kan : kanamycin gene ; rb : right border ; ubi : maize ubiquitin gene promoter ( seq id no : 9 ); pic9 : pic9 nucleotide sequence ( seq id no : 1 ); nos : nopaline synthetase terminator ( seq id no : 10 ); pmi : phosphomannose isomerase gene ( seq id no : 11 ); and lb : left border ). the recombinant expression vector dbn100147 is transformed into e . coli t1 competent cell by heat shock under the following conditions : putting 50 μl e . coli t1 competent cell and 10 μl plasmid dna ( recombinant expression vector dbn100147 ) in water bath at 42 ° c . for 30 seconds ; then putting them in water bath at 37 ° c . for 1 hour ( on a shaking bed at 100 rpm ); then culturing them on an lb solid plate ( 10 g / l tryptone , 5 g / l yeast extract , 10 g / l nacl , 15 g / l agar , ph is regulated to 7 . 5 by naoh ) containing 50 mg / l kanamycin for 12 hours at 37 ° c . ; piching white colonies and then culturing them overnight in an lb liquid medium ( 10 g / l tryptone , 5 g / l yeast extract , 10 g / l nacl , 50 mg / l kanamycin , ph is regulated to 7 . 5 by naoh ) at 37 ° c . plasmids of the white colonies are extracted by alkaline process . the plasmids extracted are identified by restriction endonucleases asci and spei , and positive colonies are verified by sequencing . the result shows that the nucleotide sequence of the recombinant expression vector dbn100147 between the asci site and the spei site is the nucleotide sequence shown by seq id no : 1 in the sequence list , namely , the pic9 nucleotide sequence . according to the method for constructing recombinant expression vector dbn100147 as described above , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence cut from the recombinant cloning vector dbn02 - t by asci and spei is inserted into expression vector dbnbc - 01 to acquire recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - i . through enzyme cleave and sequencing identification , the recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - i between the asci site and the spei site is the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence . according to the method for constructing recombinant expression vector dbn100147 as described above , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence cut from the recombinant cloning vector dbn03 - t by asci and spei is inserted into expression vector dbnbc - 01 to acquire recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - d . through enzyme cleave and sequencing identification , the recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - d between the asci site and the spei site is the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence . according to the method for constructing recombinant expression vector dbn100147 as described above , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence cut from the recombinant cloning vector dbn04 - t by asci and spei is inserted into expression vector dbnbc - 01 to acquire recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - a . through enzyme cleave and sequencing identification , the recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - a between the asci site and the spei site is the pic9 added nucleotide sequence . according to the method for constructing recombinant expression vector dbn100147 as described above , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence cut from the recombinant cloning vector dbn05 - t by asci and spei is inserted into expression vector dbnbc - 01 to acquire recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - h . through enzyme cleave and sequencing identification , the recombinant expression vector dbn100147 - h between the asci site and the spei site is the pic9 - ab added nucleotide sequence . 3 . construction of recombinant expression vector dbn100147r containing known sequence ( positive control ) according to the method for constructing recombinant cloning vector dbn01 - t containing pic9 nucleotide sequence , as described in part 1 of example 2 of the invention , recombinant cloning vector dbn01r - t containing known sequence ( seq id no : 12 ) is constructed by using the known sequence . sequencing verification is carried out on positive colonies , and the result shows that the known sequence inserted into the recombinant cloning vector dbn01r - t is the nucleotide sequence shown by seq id no : 12 in the sequence list , indicating that the known sequence is correctly inserted . according to the method for constructing recombinant expression vector dbn100147 containing pic9 nucleotide sequence , as described in part 2 of example 2 of the invention , recombinant expression vector dbn100147r containing a known sequence is constructed using the known sequence , and the construction flow is shown in fig3 ( vector backbone : pcambia2301 ( which can be provided by cambia institution ); kan : kanamycin gene ; rb : right border ; ubi : maize ubiquitin gene promoter ( seq id no : 9 ); mr : known sequence ( seq id no : 12 ); nos : nopaline synthetase terminator ( seq id no : 10 ); pmi : phosphomannose isomerase gene ( seq id no : 11 ); and lb : left border ). sequencing verification is carried out on positive colonies , and the result shows that the known sequence inserted into the recombinant expression vector dbn100147r is the nucleotide sequence shown by seq id no : 12 in the sequence list , indicating that the known sequence is correctly inserted . the recombinant expression vectors dbn100147 , dbn100147 - i , dbn100147 - d , dbn100147 - a , dbn100147 - h and dbn100147r ( known sequence ), which have been correctly constructed , are transformed into agrobacterium lba4404 ( invitrogen , chicago , usa ; cat . no : 18313 - 015 ) by a liquid nitrogen method , and the transformation conditions are as follows : putting 100 μl agrobacterium lba4404 and 3 μl plasmid dna ( recombinant expression vector ) in liquid nitrogen for 10 minutes and then putting them in water bath at 37 ° c . for 10 minutes ; inoculating the transformed agrobacterium lba4404 in an lb test tube and culturing it for 2 hours at 28 ° c . at 200 rpm , and then coating it on an lb plate containing 50 mg / l rifampicin and 100 mg / l kanamycin until positive monoclone appears , picking and culturing the positive monoclone and extracting the plasmids therefrom . enzyme cleave identification is carried out on the positive monoclone after it is cut by restriction endonucleases aatii and bglii ; the result shows that the structures of recombinant expression vectors dbn100147 , dbn100147 - i , dbn100147 - d , dbn100147 - a , dbn100147 - h and dbn100147r ( known sequence ) are completely correct . the immature embryos of maize strain z31 cultured under sterile conditions and the agrobacterium mentioned in part 4 of example 2 are co - cultured according to the commonly used agrobacterium infection method , so as to transfer the t - dnas ( including promoter sequence of maize ubiquitin gene , pic9 nucleotide sequence , pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence , pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence , pic9 added nucleotide sequence , pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence , known sequence , pmi gene and nos terminator sequence ) of the recombinant expression vectors dbn100147 , dbn100147 - i , dbn100147 - d , dbn100147 - a , dbn100147 - h and dbn100147r ( known sequence ) constructed in part 2 and part 3 of example 2 into maize genome , so that pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and known sequence - transferred maize plant are acquired ( positive control ); meanwhile , wild - type maize plant is used as negative control . in brief , for agrobacterium - mediated maize transformation , immature embryos are separated from maize and contact agrobacterium suspension , wherein agrobacterium can transfer pic9 nucleotide sequence to at least one cell of one of the immature embryos ( step 1 : infestation step ), and the promoter is operatively connected with the pic9 nucleotide sequence . in this step , the immature embryos are preferably immersed in agrobacterium suspension ( od 660 = 0 . 4 - 0 . 6 , infestation medium ( 4 . 3 g / l ms salt , ms vitamin , 300 mg / l casein , 68 . 5 g / l sucrose , 36 g / l glucose , 40 mg / l acetosyringone ( as ), 1 mg / l 2 , 4 - dichlorophenoxyacetic acid ( 2 , 4 - d ), and ph 5 . 3 ) so as to initiate inoculation . the immature embryos and the agrobacterium are co - cultured for a period of time ( 3 days ) ( step 2 : co - culture step ). preferably , the immature embryos , after the infestation step , are cultured on a solid medium ( 4 . 3 g / l ms salt , ms vitamin , 300 mg / l casein , 20 g / l sucrose , 10 g / l glucose , 100 mg / l acetosyringone ( as ), 1 mg / l 2 , 4 - dichlorophenoxyacetic acid ( 2 , 4 - d ), 8 g / l agar , and ph 5 . 8 ). there may be an optional ‘ recovery ’ step after this co - culture step . in the ‘ recovery ’ step , there is at least one antibiotic ( cephalosporin ) known to suppress the growth of agrobacterium in the medium ( 4 . 3 g / l ms salt , ms vitamin , 300 mg / l casein , 30 g / l sucrose , 1 mg / l 2 , 4 - dichlorophenoxyacetic acid ( 2 , 4 - d ), 8 g / l agar , and ph 5 . 8 ), and there is no selector of plant transformant added ( step 3 : recovery step ). preferably , the immature embryos are cultured on the solid medium containing antibiotic but not selector so as to eliminate agrobacterium and provide a period of time for recovery of the infected cells . then , the inoculated immature embryos are cultured on the medium containing selector ( mannose ) and the growing transformed callus is choosed ( step 4 : choosing step ). preferably , the immature embryos are cultured on a selector - containing screening solid medium ( 4 . 3 g / l ms salt , ms vitamin , 300 mg / l casein , 5 g / l sucrose , 12 . 5 g / l mannose , 1 mg / l 2 , 4 - dichlorophenoxyacetic acid ( 2 , 4 - d ), 8 g / l agar , and ph 5 . 8 ) to result in the selective growth of the transformed cells . afterwards , the callus is regenerated to be a plant ( step 5 : regeneration step ). preferably , the callus , which grows on a selector - containing medium , is cultured on solid mediums ( ms differentiation medium and ms rooting medium ) to regenerate a plant . resistant callus that obtained by screening is transferred to the ms differentiation medium ( 4 . 3 g / l ms salt , ms vitamin , 300 mg / l casein , 30 g / l sucrose , 2 mg / l 6 - benzyladenine , 5 g / l mannose , 8 g / l agar , and ph 5 . 8 ) for differentiating culture at 25 ° c . a plantlet that obtained through differentiation is transferred to the ms rooting medium ( 2 . 15 g / l ms salt , ms vitamin , 300 mg / l casein , 30 g / l sucrose , 1 mg / l indole - 3 - acetic acid , 8 g / l agar , and ph 5 . 8 ) and cultured at 25 ° c . until the plantlet is about 10 cm high , and then the plantlet is transferred to a greenhouse and cultured until it bears fruit . in the greenhouse , the plantlet is cultured for 16 hours at 28 ° c . and then cultured for 8 hours at 20 ° c . every day . about 100 mg leaves of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the known sequence - transferred maize plant are taken as samples respectively , and their genome dnas are extracted by using dneasy plant maxi kit from qiagen , and the number of the copies of pic9 gene is detected by taqman probe fluorescence quantitative pcr method . meanwhile , under the condition that a wild - type maize plant as negative control , the genome dnas were detected and analysed based upon the method above . the experiment is repeated 3 times to obtain an average value . the specific method for detecting the number of the copies of pic9 gene is as follows : step 11 , 100 mg leaves of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the known sequence - transferred maize plant and the wild - type maize plant are taken respectively as samples and grounded into homogenates in a mortar , and 3 replicate are taken for each sample ; step 12 , the genome dnas of the above samples are extracted using dneasy plant mini kit from qiagen , and for the details , please see the product instructions ; step 13 , the genome dna concentrations of the above samples are measured by using nanodrop 2000 ( thermo scientific ); step 14 , the genome dna concentrations of the above samples are regulated to the same concentration value which is within a range of 80 ng / μl to 100 ng / μl ; step 15 , the number of the copies of these samples is determined by using taqman probe fluorescence quantitative pcr method , and the samples , whose copy number has been determined , are regarded as standard samples and the sample of the wild - type maize plant is regarded as negative control , and 3 replicate are taken for each sample in order to obtain an average value ; the sequences of fluorescence quantitative pcr primers and probes are as follows : the primers and probes below are used for detecting pic9 nucleotide sequence , pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence , pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence , pic9 added nucleotide sequence and pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence : the primers and probe below are used for detecting known sequence : the 50 × primer / probe mixture contains 45 μl each of 1 mm primers , 50 μl 100 μm probe and 860 μl 1 × te buffer solution , and is stored in an amber test tube at 4 ° c . experiment results shows that , pic9 nucleotide sequence , pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence , pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence , pic9 added nucleotide sequence , pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence and known sequence have been all integrated into the genome of the maize plants to be detected , and transgenic maize plants containing single copy of pic9 gene and known sequence are obtained from the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the known sequence - transferred maize plant . 1 . detecting the content of insecticidal protein ( pic9 protein ) of transgenic maize plants extraction buffer solution : 8 g / l nacl , 0 . 2 g / l kh 2 po 4 , 2 . 9 g / l na 2 hpo 4 . 12h 2 o , 0 . 2 g / l kcl , 5 . 5 ml / l tween - 20 , and ph 7 . 4 ; washing buffer solution : 8 g / l nacl , 0 . 2 g / l kh 2 po 4 , 2 . 9 g / l na 2 hpo 4 . 12h 2 o , 0 . 2 g / l kcl , 0 . 5 ml / l tween - 20 , and ph 7 . 4 ; 3 mg fresh leaves of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the known sequence - transferred maize plant ( positive control ) are taken as samples respectively . these samples are grounded in liquid nitrogen , then 800 μl the extraction buffer solution are added and centrifuged for 10 minutes at 4000 rpm . supernatant is diluted by 40 - fold using the extraction buffer solution , and 80 μl diluted supernatant is taken for elisa detection . since positions 651 to 699 of the pic9 - ab amino acid sequence derives from cry1ab , and domain ii ( positions 300 to 500 ) of the pic9 amino acid sequence also has high consistency with cry1ab , the antibody of cry1ab can be used for detecting the pic9 insecticidal protein and the pic9 - ab insecticidal protein . the proportion of the amount of the insecticidal protein ( pic9 protein ) in samples based on the fresh weight of leaves is detected and analyzed by elisa ( enzyme - linked immunosorbent assay ) kit ( cry1ab / cry1ac kit , from envirlogix ), and for the details , please see the product instruction . meanwhile , the wild - type maize plant and the non - transgenic maize plant identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr are regarded as negative controls , and detected and analyzed according to the above method . there are 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 5 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of known sequence - transferred plants in total , 3 non - transgenic ( ngm ) plants identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr , and 3 wild - type ( ck ) plants ; this identification is repeated 3 times for each plant . the experimental results on the content of insecticidal proteins ( pic9 proteins ) of transgenic maize plants are shown as table 1 . the determined proportions of average expression levels of insecticidal proteins ( pic9 proteins ) in fresh leaves of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the known sequence - transferred maize plant , the wild - type maize plant and the non - transgenic maize plant identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr are as follows based on the fresh weight of leaves : 5418 . 62 , 5288 . 39 , 4897 . 36 , 5420 . 28 , 5464 . 71 , 2574 . 75 , 0 and 0 , respectively . the above results indicate that , the proportion ( ng / g ) of average expression level of insecticidal protein in the known sequence - transferred maize plant based on the fresh weight of leaves is 2574 . 75 , and the proportion ( ng / g ) of average expression level of insecticidal protein in the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant based on the fresh weight of leaves is 5418 . 62 , which is twice as much as the former , and this result indicates that the insecticidal protein in the invention has excellent stability in maize , and the expression level of pic9 protein in maize is raised dramatically by pic9 nucleotide sequence that is optimized according to the preferred codons of maize . meanwhile , pic9 - ab protein in the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant also has high level of expression . in addition , compared with the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , pic9 protein expression levels of the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant have no significant difference . the insecticidal effects of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the known sequence - transferred maize plant , the wild - type maize plant and the non - transgenic maize plant identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr against asian corn borer , cotton bollworm and oriental armyworm are detected respectively . ( 1 ) asian corn borer : fresh leaves of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the known sequence - transferred maize plant , the wild - type maize plant and the non - transgenic maize plant identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr are taken and washed with sterile water , and then water on these leaves is absorbed by gauze . afterwards , veins of these maize leaves are removed and these leaves are cut into strips of 1 cm × 2 cm . one strip of the leaf after cutting is placed on the filter paper at the bottom of a round plastic culture dish , and the filter paper is moistened by distilled water . 10 asian corn borers which are raised in captivity ( newly hatched larvae ) are put in each culture dish , and each culture dish for insect test is covered by a lid and then stands for 3 to 5 days at temperature of 26 to 28 ° c ., relative humidity of 70 %- 80 % and photoperiod ( light / dark ) of 16 : 8 , and then the number of dead larvae is determined to calculate the average mortality of asian corn borers in each of the samples . there are 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 5 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of known sequence - transferred plants , 3 non - transgenic ( ngm ) plants identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr , and 3 wild - type ( ck ) plants ; this identification is repeated 3 times for each plant . the results are shown as table 2 and fig4 . the results indicate that : plants having certain resistance to asian corn borer can be selected from the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the known sequence - transferred maize plant , however , the test insect mortalities of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant are significantly higher than that of the known sequence - transferred maize plant . the test insect mortalities of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant are both above 90 %, while the test insect mortality of the known sequence - transferred maize plant is about 70 %. ( 2 ) cotton bollworm : young filaments of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the known sequence - transferred maize plant , the wild - type maize plant and the non - transgenic maize plant identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr are taken respectively . 20 to 30 filaments are then placed on the filter paper at the bottom of a round plastic culture dish , and the filter paper is moistened by distilled water . 10 cotton bollworms which were raised in captivity ( newly hatched larvae ) are put in each culture dish , and each culture dish for insect test is covered by a lid and then stands for 3 to 5 days at temperature of 26 to 28 ° c ., relative humidity of 80 %- 90 % and photoperiod ( light / dark ) of 14 : 10 . the number of dead larvae is counted , and the total score of resistance is calculated according to two indexes including development progress and mortality of larvae : total score = 100 × mortality + 90 ×( the number of newly hatched larvae / the total number of inoculated larvae )+ 60 ×( the number of newly hatched - negative control larvae / the total number of inoculated larvae )+ 10 ×( the number of negative control larvae / the total number of inoculated larvae ). there are 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 5 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of known sequence - transferred plants , 3 non - transgenic ( ngm ) plants identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr , and 3 wild - type ( ck ) plants ; this identification is repeated 3 times for each plant . the results are shown as table 3 . the results indicate that : plants having certain resistance to cotton bollworm can be selected from the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the known sequence - transferred maize plant . however , the bioassay total scores of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant are significantly higher than that of the known sequence - transferred maize plant . the bioassay total scores of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant are both about 85 , while the bioassay total score of the known sequence - transferred maize plant generally is about 40 . the result also indicate that , the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant do not lead to massive death of the newly hatched larvae , but will suppress the development progress of larvae greatly , and specifically , 3 to 5 days later , larvae are still basically in the state of new hatching or between the states of new hatching and negative control . ( 3 ) oriental armyworm : fresh leaves of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the known sequence - transferred maize plant , the wild - type maize plant and the non - transgenic maize plant identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr are taken , and thoroughly washed with sterile water and water on these leaves is absorbed by gauze . afterwards , veins of these maize leaves are removed and these leaves are cut into strips of 1 cm × 2 cm . 3 strip - shaped leaves after cutting are placed on the filter paper at the bottom of a round plastic culture dish , and the filter paper is moistened by distilled water . 10 oriental armyworms which are raised in captivity ( newly hatched larvae ) are put in each culture dish , and each culture dish for insect test is covered by a lid and then stands for 3 to 5 days at temperature of 26 to 28 ° c ., relative humidity of 80 %- 90 % and photoperiod ( light / dark ) of 14 : 10 . the total score of resistance is obtained according to three indexes including development progress of oriental armyworm larvae , mortality and damage ratio of leaves : total score = 100 × mortality + 90 ×( the number of newly hatched larvae / the total number of inoculated larvae )+ 60 ×( the number of newly hatched - negative control larvae / the total number of inoculated larvae )+ 10 ×( the number of negative control larvae / the total number of inoculated larvae )+ 100 ×( 1 − damage ratio of leaves ). there are 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 10 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred plants in total , 5 transformation events ( i . e . events ) of known sequence - transferred plants , 3 non - transgenic ( ngm ) plants identified by fluorescence quantitative pcr , and 3 wild - type ( ck ) plants ; this identification is repeated 3 times for each plant . the results are shown as table 4 and table 5 . the results indicate that : plants having certain resistance to oriental armyworm can be selected from the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the known sequence - transferred maize plant . however , the bioassay total scores of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant are significantly higher than that of the known sequence - transferred maize plant . the bioassay total scores of the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant are both above 150 , while the bioassay total score of the known sequence - transferred maize plant is about 90 . the result also indicates that , the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant do not lead to massive death of the newly hatched larvae , but will suppress the development progress of larvae greatly , that is to say , and more specially , 3 to 5 days later , larvae are still basically in the state of new hatching or between the states of new hatching and negative control , and the damage ratio of leaves is below 30 %. it is proved that the optimized pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant both have high insect resistance . that is to say , both the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , having high pic9 protein expression level , have high toxicity , so that the expression toxicity of pic9 protein and pic9 - ab protein in maize are remarkably raised by pic9 nucleotide sequence and pic9 - ab nucleotide sequence optimized according to the preferred codons of maize . in addition , compared with the pic9 nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , pic9 protein toxicities of the pic9 substituted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant , the pic9 deleted nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant and the pic9 added nucleotide sequence - transferred maize plant have no significant difference . in brief , the insecticidal gene of the invention , which adopts preferred codons of maize , is completely in conformity with the features of maize gene , so that the insecticidal gene of the invention is particularly suitable for expression in monocotyledons , especially in maize . the pic9 protein of the invention not only has high expression level and good stability , but also has strong toxicity against insect pests , especially against lepidoptera insect pests . it should be finally pointed out that the above examples are just used to illustrate the technical solutions of the invention but not to limit the invention ; while the invention has been described in details with reference to the preferred examples , it shall be understood by an ordinary person skilled in the art that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention . | US-201313846621-A |
a holding base system comprising a platform with an exteriorly splined post projecting therefrom and mounting means for securing the platform to a surface , an article holder having a splined inner wall on a bottom thereof to fit on and cooperate with the splined post and a top thereof shaped and constructed to secure an article to be supported , with the orientation of the supported article being determined by the relative positioning of the splined socket to the splined post . | in the illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention , the holding base system is shown generally at 20 in fig8 - 11 . in the embodiment of the invention shown in fig1 - 7 the holding base system 20 includes a base holding unit 22 , and an article holder 24 . in the embodiment of the invention shown in fig8 - 11 a pair of spaced apart base holding units 22 each include an article holder 26 . each base holding unit 22 , which may be made of durable plastic material , has a platform 30 from which a shaft 32 projects . the upper end of shaft 32 has splines 34 therearound , extending parallel to a central hole 33 through the shaft 32 and platform 30 . additional holes 36 , 38 , and 40 extend through opposite ends 42 and 44 of the platform 30 . as shown in fig2 and 3 , u - bolts 46 , inserted through the holes 36 and 38 can be used to clamp the platform 30 to a bar ( not shown in fig2 and 3 ), such as forms the handlebars of a vehicle , with a v - groove 48 formed in a bottom 50 of the platform straddling the bar . alternatively , screws or bolts ( not shown ) inserted through all or selected ones of the holes 36 , 38 and 40 may be used to secure the platform to a selected surface to which the base holding system is attached . article holder 24 includes a socket 52 , fig4 , which may be of square configuration , having side walls 54 , 56 , 58 and 60 , surrounding a circular recess with a splined inner wall 64 . a hole 66 passes through the socket at each side wall intersection and between the side walls and the splined inner wall 64 . another hole 68 is passed centrally through the socket 52 . a resilient block 70 fits snugly into the top 72 of socket 52 . the block 70 has corner holes 74 therethrough to align with the holes 66 in the socket 52 and a central hole 76 therethrough to align with the central hole 68 through the socket 52 . each of the holes 74 and hole 76 are counterbored to receive a nut , not shown , into which bolts inserted through the aligned holes in the socket 52 are turned to secure the socket to the block 70 . a v - notch 80 is formed in the bottom of block 70 such that the bottom of the block will straddle a portion of a curved or other appropriately shaped surface to which the holding base system 20 is attached . a rigid band 84 extends around the side walls 54 , 56 , 58 , and 60 , with the band being connected to the walls at corners 86 , 88 , and 90 and spaced from the walls 54 , 56 , and 58 and with the band fixed to and extending across the wall 60 . a hook 92 is formed with and projects from the band 84 , centrally of wall 60 . flexible gripper straps 96 and 98 are formed integral with the block 70 , with the straps each extending from an opposite edge of the block 70 and parallel to v - notch 80 . each gripper strap is formed to curve away from the block 70 and each has raised parallel ribs 100 on one face to engage an article to be secured by the holding base system . a pair of spaced apart projections 102 and 104 are formed at opposite sides 106 and 108 of the other faces of each of the gripper straps 96 and 98 to assist in alignment of an article securement strap , such as strap 110 , used to secure an article to the holding base system . article securement strap 110 , is made of rubber , or the like , is capable of being stretched and upon being released will return to its original shape and length . strap 110 has a head 112 formed on one end , is tapered at the opposite end 114 and has a series of holes 116 spaced along the length thereof the end 114 of strap 110 is inserted through the opening formed between band 84 and wall 56 and the strap is pulled through the opening until head 112 of the strap engages band 84 to prevent the strap from being pulled fully through the space . strap 110 will then pass around gripper strap 96 , between the projections 102 and 104 and around gripper strap 98 and between the projections 102 and 104 thereon , so that the strap 110 can be pulled to position the gripper straps around an article to be secured to the holding base system and until the stretched strap 110 is positioned such that a hole 116 fits over the hook 92 of band 84 . alternatively , an article securement strap 120 ( fig7 ) can be used in place of the strap 110 , merely by rotating the block 70 a quarter turn inside the rigid band 84 so that the strap 120 will be properly aligned with the gripper straps 96 and 98 . strap 120 is a strong , flexible fabric material 122 , with a loop material 124 on one face and with an end 126 turned back and the end sewn such that the end 126 has looped material on both faces of the strap . a flap 128 of strap material , having hook material 130 on one face thereof , is fixed to the strap 120 at a portion adjacent to the turned back end 126 and has a locking end 132 extending away from the strap 120 . when used with the socket 52 and resilient block 70 the end 126 of strap 120 is inserted through the space between a side wall 54 or 58 and rigid band 84 and away from the flexible gripper strap 96 or 98 adjacent to such side wall and then is folded back to engage the inserted loop portion with the hook portion 130 of the flap 128 . the hooks on the locking portion are then engaged with the loops on the turned back end 126 of the strap . the free end of the strap 120 is passed around the gripper straps 96 and 98 , between the projections 102 and 104 on the gripper straps and around an article to be secured . the free end of strap 120 passes through the space between the other side wall 54 or 58 and rigid band 84 and is snugged tight around the surface before being turned back to engage the looped material on the free end with hook material 94 sewn to and overlying looped material adjacent to the flap 128 . use of strap 110 or of strap 120 is determined by the nature of the article to be secured and is a matter of choice by the user . with either independent strap the flexible gripper straps are held tightly against the article to be secured . as best seen in fig8 and 9 a plurality of spaced apart base holding units 22 ( shown as two units ) are mounted to a bar 134 forming part of a vehicle support rack and receive a shovel 136 ( shown fragmentarily ). each base holding unit has an article holder 26 fixed thereto , with bifurcated arms 138 and 140 of the article holders aligned to receive the handle 142 of the shovel and with the downwardly inclined flexible vanes 144 of the article holders securing the handle in place . individual base holding units 22 of the holding base system can easily receive and hold articles having cooperating socket members , article holders 26 and articles secured to the article holders . alternatively , a spaced apart pair of article holders 26 can be mounted on a cross bar 146 with spaced apart splined shafts 32 , fig1 and 11 . the cooperating splines on the shafts 32 and in the sockets 52 allow the article holders 26 to be rotated , as desired , relative to the splined shafts of the base holding units . consequently , the bifurcated arms 138 and 140 of the spaced apart article holders can be set to provide for wedging of an article ( fishing pole 150 ) held by the bifurcated arms . the spaced apart article holders 26 insure secure , wedged holding , whether or not the bifurcated arms include downwardly extending flexible vanes . bolts 152 , inserted through central holes 154 through the splined shafts 32 and central holes 68 through the splined sockets 52 are tightened into nuts 156 in the counterbores 158 of base holding units 20 to secure the article holders to the base holding units . although preferred embodiments of the invention have been herein disclosed , it is to be understood that such disclosure is by way of example and that other variations are possible without departing from the subject matter coming within the scope of the following claims , which claims define my invention . | US-46050199-A |
apparatuses , methods , and kits are disclosed for preventing quick release of a magazine from a magazine well of a sa vzor 58 rifle without the need to substantially disassemble the rifle , thereby providing a means to modify sa vzor 58 rifles to bring such rifles within permissible limitations of certain local , state , and federal guns laws . | various terms used herein are intended to have particular meanings . some of these terms are defined below for the purpose of clarity . the definitions given below are meant to cover all forms of the words being defined ( e . g ., singular , plural , present tense , past tense ). to the extent that any term below diverges from the commonly understood and / or dictionary definition of such term , the definitions below control . clipped position : the position of a magazine relative to a rifle such that the magazine is secured to the rifle in a manner in which a round can be fired from the magazine ( if at least one round is present in the magazine ). magazine : a device for holding one or more rounds of ammunition and , in some cases , urging one or more rounds to a firing chamber of a rifle to which the magazine is attached in a clipped position . magazine catch pin : an elongated , preferably cylindrical , pin configured for extending through the width of a rifle along a passage to hold two or more objects together , preferably having a diameter or average cross - sectional distance ranging from about 3 . 8 mm to about 4 . 2 mm , and a length ranging from about 27 mm to about 31 mm . magazine safety pin : an elongated nail - like device preferably including a nail - like head and a bifurcated distal end defining a first leg and a second leg , wherein the second leg is preferably longer than the first leg and wherein the second leg preferably includes a ridge for holding the magazine safety pin in place after the magazine safety pin has been inserted into a magazine safety pin channel . the first leg preferably has a length ranging from about 24 mm to about 28 mm , and the second leg ( including the ridge ) preferably has a length ranging from about 26 mm to about 30 mm . the head preferably has a thickness of about 1 mm and a diameter or average cross - sectional length ranging from about 4 mm to about 6 mm . magazine safety pin channel : an aperture along a ventral surface of a rifle where a magazine safety pin may be inserted so as to come into frictional contact with a magazine catch pin ( if a magazine catch pin is present ) whereby the magazine catch pin is substantially held in place by the magazine safety pin . magazine well : a three - dimensional space defined at least in part by the contour of a receiver and including , for example , the space where a quick release mechanism is typically located . passage : a substantially linear channel , preferably cylindrical in shape , extending from an aperture located along a first side of an object to an aperture located along a second side of an object . receiver cover : particularly with respect to a sa vzor 58 , a “ receiver cover ” 50 is that portion or portions of a rifle that cover the receiver as shown , for example , in fig1 . substantially disassembled : the state of a rifle — particularly a sa vzor 58 rifle — in which the receiver cover has been removed . this is typically a necessary step in order to remove a magazine safety pin from a sa vzor 58 rifle . fig1 a - 1g show various views of an embodiment of the invention including a multifaceted rigid object 100 . the object 100 or other embodiments thereof can be described by defining a distal end 102 and a proximal end 104 as well as an engagement end 106 and a back end 108 . the distal end 102 end and the proximal end 104 together define a first axis 110 which is generally oriented in the dimension hereinafter referred to as “ height ” or the “ height dimension .” the engagement end 106 and the back end 108 together define a second axis 112 which is generally oriented in the dimension hereinafter referred to as “ length ” or the “ length dimension .” the first axis 110 is preferably substantially orthogonal to the second axis 112 . the object 100 further includes a passage 114 that extends through the dimension hereinafter referred to as “ width ” or the “ width dimension ” along a third axis 116 . the passage 114 defines a first aperture 118 along a first side face 120 of the object 100 and a second aperture 122 along a second side face 124 of the object 100 . the third axis 116 extends along an imaginary line passing through a first central point 126 of the first aperture 118 and a second central point 128 of the second aperture 122 . thus , in certain embodiments , the third axis could be referred to as a “ central ” axis because it runs in linear fashion between the first central point 126 and the second central point 128 . in the embodiment shown in fig1 a - 1g , the first central point 126 and the second central point 128 are easily determined because the first aperture 118 and the second aperture 122 are each in the form of an orifice having a circular shape . the length of the diameters defining the first aperture 118 and the second aperture range from about 1 . 7 mm to about 2 . 4 mm , and most preferably about 2 . 1 mm . although a circular shaped cross section through the passage 114 is preferred , other embodiments may include , for example , a passage including an irregular shaped cross section , a dynamically shaped cross section that differs along the third axis , or a regular shaped cross section in the shape of a polygon or non - circular curved shape . the embodiment shown in fig1 a - 1g includes a specific arrangement of faces including the first side face 120 and the second side face 124 as well as an end face 130 , a distal face 132 , a proximal face 134 , a first engagement face 136 , a second engagement face 138 , and a third engagement face 140 . fig2 shows preferred dimensions for the embodiment shown in fig1 and shows that the end face 130 is preferably a curved surface that extends around at approximately 180 degrees . the dimensions shown in fig2 are given in millimeters ( mm ) with preferred tolerance ranges of +/− 0 . 1 mm . however , less precise versions of the embodiment shown in fig1 - 2 are contemplated viable and useful by applicant . generally , the preferred maximum length of the object 100 ranges from about 11 . 5 mm to about 12 . 0 mm . the preferred maximum width of the object 100 ranges from about 10 . 5 mm to about 11 . 0 mm . the preferred maximum height of the object 100 preferably ranges from about 13 . 8 mm to about 14 . 2 mm so that the proximal face 134 is substantially flush with the surrounding surface of a rifle to which the object 100 may be attached as shown , for example , in fig3 . however , the distance between the proximal end 104 and the distal end 102 may be greater than 14 . 2 mm ( e . g ., ranging from about 14 . 2 mm to about 25 mm or more ) such that the proximal end 104 ′ of a related embodiment object 100 ′ extends beyond the surrounding surface of a rifle to which the object 100 ′ is attached as shown in fig4 a . fig4 b - 4j show examples of some other potential embodiments with various faces and surface orientations , but having the same structural characteristics as defined above with respect to the first axis 110 , the second axis 112 , and the third axis 116 . fig4 a - 4j show a small sampling of the various shapes that are contemplated by this disclosure . with reference back to the embodiment shown in fig1 a - 1g , the third axis 116 is preferably located a shortest distance from the distal end 102 of the object 100 of from about 9 . 7 mm to about 10 . 1 mm , and most preferably about 9 . 9 mm . the third axis 116 is also preferably located a shortest distance from the back end 108 of the object 100 of from about 8 . 5 mm to about 8 . 9 mm , and most preferably about 8 . 7 mm . another embodiment of the invention is shown in fig5 including a first version of a sa vzor 58 rifle 200 including the object 100 ( or variation thereof ) described above . the rifle 200 also includes a magazine well 202 , a magazine 204 oriented in a clipped position with the magazine well 202 , and a magazine catch pin 206 . the magazine well 202 further includes a groove 208 where a spring - loaded magazine quick release lever ( shown in fig6 ) is typically located , but where the object 100 is located to prevent quick release of the magazine 204 without substantial disassembly of the rifle 200 . the object 100 is located in the groove 208 such that the distal end 102 of the object 100 is oriented toward ( i . e ., “ substantially facing ”) the rifling chamber of the rifle , the proximal end 104 of the object 100 is oriented away from the rifling chamber , the engagement end 106 of the object 100 is oriented toward the magazine 204 , and the back end 108 of the object 100 is oriented toward a triggering mechanism . the rifle 200 also preferably includes a magazine safety pin 210 which , in typical sa vzor 58 rifles , functions ( at least in part ) to maintain the magazine catch pin 206 in place so that , among other things , the magazine 204 does not detach during firing of the rifle 200 . the object 100 , the magazine catch pin 206 , and the magazine safety pin 210 are shown in disassembled form in fig7 a - 7c . when the rifle 200 is substantially fully assembled , the magazine catch pin 206 is located through a first catch pin aperture 216 , into the passage 114 of the object 100 , and over to a second catch pin aperture 218 such that the passage 114 is substantially aligned with the first rifle catch pin aperture 216 and the second catch pin aperture 218 . fig8 shows the magazine catch pin 206 being inserted through the first rifle catch pin aperture 216 and into the passage 114 . in similar fashion ( but in a different spatial orientation ), the magazine safety pin 210 is located at least partially in a magazine safety pin channel 220 oriented substantially orthogonal to the catch pin 206 helping to hold the catch pin 206 in a relatively stationary position , thereby ensuring that the object 100 remains in place which further guarantees that the magazine 204 remains in a clipped position . fig9 shows the magazine safety pin 210 being inserted into the magazine safety pin channel 220 . in the embodiment shown in fig5 , the magazine 204 is configured for holding no more than ten rounds of ammunition . in another embodiment , for example , a magazine may be used that is configured for holding about thirty rounds of ammunition . the capacity of the magazine used is not necessarily relevant so long as such magazine is configured to be in a clipped position with the rifle 200 . in a related embodiment shown in fig1 , a magazine 300 is contemplated wherein the magazine 300 further includes the object 100 ( or variation thereof ) permanently attached as a part of the magazine 300 by , for example , welding . the magazine 300 is configured to be in a clipped position with a sa vzor 58 rifle including the groove 208 described above . the magazine 300 is preferably further configured such that the first aperture 118 and the second aperture 122 of the object 100 substantially align with first magazine catch pin aperture 216 and the second magazine catch pin aperture 218 , respectively , of an sa vzor 58 rifle so that the magazine 300 may be held in place with no quick release capability by the magazine catch pin 206 and the magazine safety pin 210 . in yet another embodiment shown in fig1 , a second version of a sa vzor rifle 400 includes the object 100 ( or variation thereof ) described above . the rifle 400 also includes the magazine well 202 and the magazine 204 oriented in a clipped position with the magazine well 202 . the magazine well 202 further includes the groove 208 where a spring - loaded magazine quick release lever ( shown in fig6 ) is typically located , but where the object 100 has been attached to prevent release of the magazine 204 . in this embodiment , the object 100 is permanently attached to the groove 208 by , for example , welding after the magazine 204 has been oriented in a clipped position . this way , the magazine 204 may not be removed . therefore , in this particular embodiment , the rifle 400 must be rifle loaded from the top of the rifle 400 . in a related embodiment , a modified version of the object 100 is used wherein there is no passage 114 . the passage 114 is preferred , however , because the placement of the magazine catch pin 206 through the first rifle catch pin aperture 216 , through the passage 114 of the object 100 , and through the second catch pin aperture 218 helps to properly position the object 100 prior to welding the object 100 with the surrounding groove 208 surfaces . fig7 a - 7c shows embodiments of a kit 500 of parts for use to modify a sa vzor 58 rifle . the kit 500 includes the object 100 ( or variation thereof ). in a preferred embodiment , the kit 500 further includes the magazine catch pin 206 and the magazine safety pin 210 . typically , a rifle being modified already has a magazine catch pin and a magazine safety pin . however , such parts may be worn or otherwise damaged , so the preferred embodiment of the kit 500 provides extra parts . the object 100 is preferably made of metals or metal alloys such as , for example , steel , stainless steel , aluminum , titanium , iron , cobalt , nickel , copper , zinc , and mixed alloys thereof . the magazine catch pin 206 and the magazine safety pin 210 are also preferably made of the same material ( s ). in addition to the various embodiments of apparatuses and kit disclosed above , methods for assembling a modified sa vzor 58 so that a magazine placed in a clipped position relative to the rifle cannot be detached from the rifle rapidly or , in some cases , at all are disclosed . one embodiment includes the steps of ( a ) providing an sa vzor 58 rifle ( 200 , 400 ) including a magazine well 202 and a groove 208 as described above as shown in fig1 - 13 ; ( b ) placing the magazine 204 in a clipped position as shown in fig1 - 15 ; ( c ) inserting the object 100 ( or variation thereof ) into the groove 208 leading with the distal end 102 of the object 100 such that the engagement end 106 of the object 100 is facing the magazine 204 ; ( d ) placing the magazine catch pin 206 through the first rifle catch pin aperture 216 , into the passage 114 of the object 100 , and over to the second catch pin aperture 218 as shown in fig8 ; and ( e ) forcing the magazine safety pin 210 into the magazine safety pin channel 220 as shown in fig9 . a rifle assembled using the steps described above is shown , for example , in fig1 - 17 . in one embodiment , step ( a ) above further includes the sub - steps of ( i ) removing the magazine 204 from an sa vzor 58 rifle 700 as shown in fig1 - 20 , wherein the rifle 700 is equipped with a quick release mechanism 702 including a lever 704 and a spring 706 ( fig2 ), leaving the rifle 700 with no magazine as shown in fig2 ; ( ii ) forcing the magazine safety pin 210 out of the magazine safety pin channel 220 as shown in fig2 ; ( iii ) removing the magazine catch pin 206 as shown in fig2 ; and ( iv ) removing the quick release mechanism 702 so that an sa vzor 58 rifle having no attached quick release mechanism is provided prior to step ( b ). another embodiment of a method is disclosed including the steps of ( a ) providing an sa vzor 58 rifle ( 200 , 400 ) including a magazine well 202 including a groove 208 as described above and as shown in fig1 - 14 ; ( b ) placing the magazine 204 in a clipped position as shown in fig1 - 16 ; ( c ) inserting the object 100 ( or variation thereof including , for example , a version having no passage 114 ) into the groove 208 leading with the distal end 102 of the object 100 such that the engagement end 106 of the object 100 is facing the magazine 204 ; and ( f ) welding the object 100 to one or more of the groove 208 surface ( s ). various embodiments described herein are used to effectively disable / modify the magazine quick release feature of sa vzor 58 rifles so that such rifles may comply with various national and state laws in the united states . the previously described embodiments of the present disclosure have many advantages , including providing a relatively inexpensive kit and / or apparatus and relatively simple methods to modify sa vzor rifles . with regards to certain embodiments described above , in order for the magazine safety pin 210 to be removed , it is necessary for the receiver cover to be removed so that a distal end of the magazine safety pin 222 may be hammered or otherwise manipulated so as to force the magazine safety pin 210 out of the magazine safety pin channel 220 . thus , the magazine 204 , when in a clipped position , cannot be removed unless the rifle is substantially disassembled . with regards to the embodiments disclosed wherein the object 100 ( or variation thereof ) is permanently attached ( e . g ., welded ) to one or more of the groove 208 surface ( s ), the magazine 204 cannot be removed at all without causing undesirable damage to the rifle . many current technologies allow a user to use a hand tool to disengage a magazine from a rifle , but these technologies are at the very edge of the law in some jurisdictions and may be nonviable as gun laws fluctuate throughout the united states . thus , the apparatuses , kits , and methods described herein provide a conservative and viable option to modify sa vzor 58 rifles or otherwise use a modified sa vzor 58 rifle with confidence that such use is within the limits of most if not all applicable gun laws in the united states related to firearms . the foregoing description of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description . the described preferred embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the disclosure to the precise form ( s ) disclosed . obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings . the embodiments are chosen and described in an effort to provide the best illustrations of the principles of the disclosure and its practical application , and to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the concepts revealed in the disclosure in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated . all such modifications and variations are within the scope of the disclosure as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly , legally , and equitably entitled . any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “ means for ” performing a specified function , or “ step for ” performing a specific function , is not to be interpreted as a “ means ” or “ step ” clause as specified in 35 u . s . c . § 112 , ¶ 6 . in particular , the use of “ step of ” in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 u . s . c . § 112 , ¶ 6 . | US-60579009-A |
this invention relates to a process for enhanced recovery of hydrocarbons from a subterranean hydrocarbon - bearing formation penetrated by an injection well and a production well wherein , before injection , the surfactant fluid is separated into two phases by the addition of small amounts of polymer and the portion having the higher sulfonate content is used as the surfactant slug . as an improvement we disclose the step of adding the phase of surfactant fluid with the lower sulfonate content to the polymer slug which is used to drive the surfactant fluid to further increase recovery . | in the narrower practice of the present invention a process for enhanced recovery of hydrocarbons is disclosed which comprises : injecting into the well a surfactant fluid comprising about 0 . 1 % to about 20 . 0 % of total solute by weight petroleum sulfonate surfactant ; about 0 . 1 % to about 5 % of total solute by weight solubilizer dispersed in the water ; about 0 . 1 to 10 % by weight polymer , wherein the surfactant fluid formed is the product of dissolving the polymer in the water - surfactant - solubilizer fluid , allowing the mixture to separate , separating the fraction with the highest sulfonate content to use as the surfactant fluid and separating the remaining fraction which contains the lower sulfonate content to add to the polymer slug , forcing said high sulfonate content surfactant slug , and subsequently the low sulfonate content containing enriched polymer slug through the formation and recovering said hydrocarbons . as indicated the surfactant solution employed in the process of this invention typically is composed of water or brine , a sulfonate and a solubilizer and a polymer combined , wherein the water , surfactant and solubilizer are combined , a small amount of polymer is added and the mixture is allowed to separate with subsequent use of the fraction with the highest sulfonate content as the surfactant flood fluid and addition of the fraction with the lower sulfonate content to the polymer slug which generally follows the surfactant flood . a description of the first embodiment of the process is described in detail in copending application ser . no . 729 , 452 , the specification of which is herein incorporated by reference . the water employed is usually brine from the reservoir site , but it can be most any available water including raw tap water , demineralized or softened water , deionized water , etc ., as well as other forms of water . generally it is most economical to use brine water from a reservoir ; however , certain characteristics of the available brine should be considered which might influence the efficiency of the enhanced recovery system . for example , some oil field chemicals such as corrosion inhibitors can be detrimental to surfactant flooding ; therefore care should be taken to make sure the reservoir brine is devoid of these chemicals . numerous surfactants or combinations of surfactants may be employed in the process of the invention . the preferred class of surfactant is determined by the formation temperature and the salinity . the petroleum sulfonates which can be used as surfactants include all commercial sulfonates and especially useful are surfactants that contain mono - poly sulfonate mixtures . the sulfonate surfactants particularly useful in this invention have an average molecular weight greater than about 300 , such as those described in u . s . pat . nos . 3 , 714 , 062 and 3 , 997 , 451 which are expressly incorporated by reference herein for discussion of sulfonate materials which will act as surfactants . suitable sulfonate surfactants include petroleum sulfonates which generally include whole to top crude oils , gas oils or other fractions of a crude oil stream ; aliphatic hydrocarbon polymer sulfonates such as , for example , alkaline metal straight chain hydrocarbon polybutene or polypropylene polymer sulfonates synthetically prepared aromatic polymer sulfonates ; or polymers with other sulfonate groupings thereon possessing surfactant characterstics . an especially preferred sulfonate is one having an average equivalent molecular weight in the range of from 300 to about 700 . particularly suitable are surfactants with a molecular weight in the range of from 360 - 420 . very good results have been observed using witco ® trs sulfonates which have average equivalent molecular weights of 300 - 600 . the concentration of the surfactant will generally be within the range of 0 . 1 % to 20 . 0 % of total solute by weight and preferably 0 . 1 % to 10 . 0 % weight percent based on the total weight of the surfactant flood fluid . solubilizers are employed to keep the surfactants in solution . a large variety of commercial solubilizers are functional . suitable solubilizers include two sulfated ethoxylated alcohols sold under the trademarks alfonic ® 1412 - a and 1412 - s by conoco chemical co . sulfated ethoxylated solubilizers are stable where reservoir temperatures do not exceed about 50 ° c . in higher temperature reservoirs , ethoxylated sulfonates are preferred . a variety of polymers can be used in the practice of this invention . polysaccharides and polyacrylamides are among those which will work . in the process of the invention small amounts of polymer are added to the water - surfactant - solubilizer fluid and time is allowed for the polymer to dissolve and for the mixture to separate so the portion with the highest sulfonate content can be separated and used in flooding . the optimally effective amount of polymer to be used can be determined by performing bottle tests on the premixed sulfonate mixture . to a series of bottles containing the sulfonate mixture is added increasing concentrations of polymer starting at about 0 . 1 % through 10 %. the mixtures are allowed to stand for 1 or 2 days . the resultant mixtures will be one phase then two phases with different proportions of the two phases . a mixture with the fraction with the highest sulfonate content being about 90 % of the total mixture works very well . generally the amount of polymer will range from 100 ppm to 300 ppm and preferably about 200 ppm . example i of copending u . s . ser . no . 729 , 452 demonstrates in more detail how the components of the invention are actually mixed and how the fraction with the higher sulfonate content is recognized . if the process of this invention were used commercially the type of tanks used presently in fields where flooding procedures are taking place should be suitable to use for mixing large amounts of water , surfactant and solubilizer within the range of proportions discussed , and then adding the appropriate amount of polymer and allowing the solution to settle . the surfactant phase at the bottom , for example , could be injected and as the upper phase reached the outlet the polymer slug would be mixed with the upper phase and injected . however , if larger quantities of surfactant were needed the surfactant could be drawn off the bottom of several tanks and collected in a larger tank . polyacrylamides useful in the process of this invention include all commercial polyacrylamides . generally the number average molecular weight of the polyacrylamide or partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide or salts thereof utilized in this invention and of the alkoxylated polyacrylamide or partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide or salts thereof will range from about 10 , 000 to about 2 , 000 , 000 or more . polyacrylamide , partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide or salts thereof which are manufactured and sold by a number of chemical manufacturers are prepared by the usual vinyl compound polymerization methods . naflo ® f polyacrylamide works well . it is manufactured by nalco . another class of hydrophilic polymeric water thickening materials suitable for use in this invention is the polysaccharide compounds , many of which are readily available commercially . an example is kelzan polysaccharide , manufactured by xanco division of kelco corporation and functions best as the polymer slug rather than as the polymer added to the surfactant fluid . it is essential that the polymer - surfactant solution be thoroughly mixed . accordingly mixing times of up to 24 hours may be employed . depending on the efficiency of the mixing systems , times of 24 to 168 hours , preferably 24 to 72 hours are satisfactory for settling time . by practicing the principles of this invention one is able to obtain enhanced oil recovery yields as high as 99 % from core samples , compared to typically lower yields obtained with only surfactants such as petroleum sulfonates and solubilizers in reservoir water or using the same mixture with a polymer , but without separating and using the phase having the higher surfactant content followed by a polymer slug containing the fraction containing the lower sulfonate content as taught by this invention . the surfactant flood fluid of this invention can be used in the same manner as similar fluids of the prior art . for instance , a preflush can be introduced into an injection well followed by the surfactant fluid of this invention containing a higher concentration of sulfonates which is the product of dissolving a small amount of polymer in a solution of reservoir water containing surfactant and solubilizer , then allowing the mixture to separate . in most cases the portion with the highest mono - sulfonate content is the lower phase , but depending on the densities of the chemicals it may be the upper phase . then where a polymer under pressure is injected after the surfactant fluid mixture , the process of this invention can be utilized , comprising injecting under pressure a polymer slug containing the phase remaining which is made up of a surfactant - brine - solubilizer - polymer mixture containing the lower sulfonate content . temperature , time and pressure conditions are not critical . the temperature is usually room temperature , but it should be less than 180 ° c . in the operation of this invention the pressure is generally low and may range from atmospheric to reservoir pressure . with the foregoing disclosure in mind , the following examples are presented which will illustrate to those of ordinary skill in the art the manner in which this invention is carried out . however , the examples which follow are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way and the examples merely point out methods of obtaining the greatest efficiency in use of the invention . the experiments demonstrate that using the separated phase of this invention having low sulfonate content , resulting from mixing a small amount of polymer with the water - surfactant - solubilizer and separating the phase with the lower sulfonate content to add to the polymer slug results in higher percentages of enhanced recovery than found using other flooding compositions . a berea sandstone core was saturated with salem reservoir brine and flooded with salem crude oil . the core was then water flooded with salem injection water . a surfactant flooding fluid was mixed comprising 1 . 8 % stepan petrostep ® 465 petroleum sulfonate and 0 . 7 % alfonic ® 1412 - a solubilizer in salem injection water . this mixture was injected into the core as the surfactant slug and displaced by 1000 ppm kelzan polysaccharide polymer followed by tap water . kelzan is manufactured by the xanco division of kelco corporation . the core gave a tertiary recovery of 62 . 5 %. a berea sandstone core was saturated with salem reservoir brine and flooded with salem crude oil . the core was then water flooded with salem injection water . a surfactant flooding fluid was mixed comprising 1 . 8 % stepan petrostep ® 465 petroleum sulfonate and 0 . 7 % alfonic ® 1412 - a solubilizer in salem injection water . to this brine - surfactant - solubilizer mixture was added 300 ppm naflo ® f polyacrylamide . the polymer was allowed to mix in the surfactant fluid and the mixture allowed to separate . the time was not critical and may range from 10 - 1000 hours . in this example the separation occurred within 1 day or about 24 hours . the mixing proceeded at room temperature and atmospheric pressure . when the mixture had separated into two phases , the fraction with the highest sulfonate content was separated for use as a surfactant fluid in the tertiary or enhanced recovery . the remaining phase was mixed with the 1000 ppm kelzan polysaccharide slug . the surfactant was displaced by the surfactant enriched polymer slug and this in turn by tap water . when the core was displaced by this mixture , the core gave a tertiary recovery of 76 %. a berea sandstone core was saturated with salem reservoir brine and flooded with salem crude oil . the core was then water flooded with salem injection water . a surfactant flooding fluid was mixed comprising 1 . 8 % stepan petrostep ® 465 petroleum sulfonate and 0 . 7 % alfonic ® 1412 - a solubilizer in salem injection water . to this brine - surfactant - solubilizer mixture was added 300 ppm naflo ® f polyacrylamide . the polymer was allowed to mix in the surfactant fluid and the mixture allowed to separate . the time was not critical and could range from 10 - 1000 hours . in this example the separation occurred within 1 day or about 24 hours . the mixing proceeded at room temperature and atmospheric pressure . when the mixture had separated into two phases , the fraction with the highest sulfonate content was separated for use as a surfactant fluid in the tertiary or enhanced recovery . the remaining phase was mixed with the 1000 ppm kelzan polysaccharide slug . the surfactant was displaced by the surfactant enriched polymer slug and this in turn by tap water . when the core was displaced by this mixture , the core gave a tertiary recovery of 94 . 2 %. a berea sandstone core was saturated with salem reservoir brine and flooded with salem crude oil . the core was then water flooded with salem injection water . a surfactant flooding fluid was mixed comprising 1 % witco ® trs - 40 and 0 . 8 % witco ® trs - 18 petroleum sulfonates and 0 . 7 % alfonic ® 1412 - a solubilizer in salem injection water . this mixture was injected into the core as the surfactant slug and displaced by 1000 ppm kelzan polysaccharide polymer followed by tap water . the core gave a tertiary recovery of 64 . 5 %. a berea sandstone core was saturated with salem reservoir brine and flooded with salem crude oil . the core was then water flooded with salem injection water . a surfactant flooding fluid was mixed comprising 1 % witco ® trs - 40 , 0 . 8 % witco ® trs - 18 petroleum sulfonates and 0 . 7 % alfonic ® 1412 - a solubilizer in salem injection water . to this brine - surfactant - solubilizer mixture was added 300 ppm naflo f polyacrylamide . the polymer was allowed to mix in the surfactant fluid and the mixture allowed to separate . the time was not critical and could range from 10 - 1000 hours . in this example the separation occurred within 1 day or about 24 hours . the mixing proceeded at room temperature and atmospheric pressure . when the mixture had separated in two phases , the fraction with the highest sulfonate content was separated for use as a surfactant fluid in a tertiary or enhanced recovery . the surfactant was displaced by 1000 ppm kelzan polysaccharide followed by tap water . when the oil was displaced by this mixture the core gave a tertiary recovery of 80 . 1 %. a berea sandstone core was prepared and water flooded as in example ii . a surfactant flooding fluid was mixed comprising 1 % witco ® trs - 40 , 0 . 8 % witco ® trs - 18 , petroleum sulfonates and 0 . 7 % alfonic ® 1412 - a solubilizer in salem injection water . 300 ppm naflo ® f polyacrylamide was added to this mixture and allowed to separate . the fraction with the highest sulfonate content was used as the surfactant slug . the other phase was added to the 1000 ppm kelzan polysaccharide slug . the surfactant slug was displaced by the sulfonate enriched polymer slug and this in turn by tap water . the tertiary displacement for this displacement was 99 . 3 %. the significant end point values for these examples are tabulated in table i . table i______________________________________core displacement tests stepan ® witco ® surfactant surfactant i ia ib ii iia iib______________________________________initial oil 73 . 0 % 72 . 6 % 66 . 6 % 69 . 8 % 72 . 4 % 65 . 7 % saturationoil satu - 43 . 4 % 43 . 1 % 39 . 7 % 41 . 3 % 45 . 6 % 38 . 2 % ration afterwater flood % recovery 40 . 5 % 40 . 6 % 40 . 4 % 40 . 8 % 37 . 5 % 41 . 9 % by waterfloodoil satu - 16 . 3 % 10 . 3 % 2 . 3 % 14 . 6 % 9 . 0 % 0 . 3 % ration afterchemicalflood % recovery 77 . 7 % 85 . 8 % 96 . 5 % 79 . 0 % 87 . 5 % 99 . 6 % after chemi - cal flood % recovery 62 . 5 % 76 . 0 % 94 . 2 % 64 . 5 % 80 . 1 % 99 . 3 % by chemi - cal flood______________________________________ the experiments demonstrate that using the separated phase , having the lower sulfonate content which remains after separating the higher sulfonate containing fraction used as the surfactant slug , and enriching the polymer slug with it resulted in even greater percentages of enhanced recovery than using the process described in ser . no . 729 , 452 alone . | US-72945185-A |
the present invention relates to a method of imparting a controlled tanning of skin by treating the skin with an aqueous medium containing melanin or a precursor of melanin . | unless stated otherwise , all percentages recited herein are weight percentages based on total composition weight . it appears that the melanin formation resulting from the use of the melanin precursors of the present invention takes place in the stratum corneum . therefore , the tanning produced by the present invention , while not as durable as naturally occurring tanning resulting from melanin pigmentation in the malphigian layer , is substantially more durable than tanning pigmentation caused by prior art methods wherein the melanin formation takes place on the surface of the skin . notwithstanding the difference in the location of natural melanin pigmentation and that produced by the present invention , the aesthetic effect resulting from pigmentation provided by the present invention is very similar to tanning and can also provide a high degree of protection against solar radiation . the desired formation of melanin pigment and resulting tanning effect can be readily accomplished by treatment of skin with one or more appropriate tanning agent ( s ), which are melanin precursors or melanin precursor - like materials . while the term &# 34 ; tanning agents &# 34 ; and &# 34 ; agents &# 34 ; are used in the specification to describe these precursors and precursor like materials , it should be noted that these substances may be termed &# 34 ; catalysts &# 34 ; or &# 34 ; assistants &# 34 ; as well . suitable melanin precursors and precursor - like materials are synthetic compounds which are capable of forming melanin and mellanin - like compounds . typically , they include compounds such as 5 , 6 - dimethoxyindole , 5 , 6 - methylenedioxyindole , 3 , 4 - dihydroxy - phenylalanine and its derivatives , particularly cysteinyl dopas like 2 - cysteinyl - dopa and 2 , 5 - dicysteinyl - dopa 5 - cysteinyl - dopa ; dopamine , 5 , 6 - dihydroxyindole and its derivatives , particularly n - alkyl - 5 , 6 - dihydroxyindole wherein the alkyl group contains from 1 to 6 carbon atoms , and 5 , 6 - dihydroxyindole - 2 - carboxylic acid and the like . mixtures are operable . two additional aspects of the present invention deserve noting . firstly , the pigment formation does not require contribution from either exogenously applied or indigenously present enzymes ( such as tyrosinase or peroxidase ) which are known to catalyze the conversion of melanin precursors to melanin . secondly , conventional tanning effects are generally associated with a delay , i . e ., a time interval ranging from 18 hours to several days between sun exposure and melanin formation . surprisingly , with the present invention the melanin generation begins from the first moment of contact of the melanin precursor with the skin . although exposure to sunlight is not necessary , pigment formation is accelerated by subsequent exposure to sunlight . both of these phenomena , surprising as they are , are of clear benefit to the individual seeking tanning . notwithstanding the obvious difference in the mechanism of pigment formation that takes , place when practicing the present invention and the mechanism controlling conventional tanning , and irrespective of the difference in the location of the indigenous melanin and that produced by the present invention , the appearance of tan in both instances is very similar , as is the afforded photoprotection . the time required for the darkening or tanning of the skin following the application of a composition based on the present invention depends on the type of precursor used , individual skin characteristics and whether skin is exposed to sunlight . exposure to sunlight may significantly accelerate the tanning effect . the effects associated with sunlight or ultraviolet exposure , which generate the melanin pigment in the stratum corneum , are quite different from those which take place in the course of conventional tanning . in the latter case , the appearance of tan is generally delayed by 1 - 3 days after sun ultraviolet exposure and is usually preceded by an erythemal stage ( skin reddening or burn ) resulting from the skin injury attendant upon prolonged sun exposure . with the present invention , the tan is rapidly generated in approximately 2 - 30 minutes , with no evidence of , or need for , an erythemal stage . usually , the tanning agents of the present invention will be applied to skin in a suitable topical cosmetic base in the forms of aqueous lotions or gels . typically , these agents will be present in a concentration range of 0 . 1 to 10 % by weight , based on the total weight of the composition . as used hereinafter , all references to % by weight will refer to % by weight of the total composition . a combination of precursors may be used to modulate the intensity and color tonality of the desired tan . lotions or gels can be prepared by methods well known in the art . for example , a tanning lotion can be prepared by dissolving the required quantity of one or more agents in 40 % aqueous ethanol containing 5 % by volume of glycerin . aqueous or alcoholic gels based on carbopol ( polymers of acrylic and methacrylic acids ), hydroxyethylcellulose , guar , and the like , in suitable amounts , can serve as an appropriate base or carrier for the melanin precursors or other agent . the compositions may also contain suitable quantities of emollients , perfumes , etc . if desired , known sunscreening agents can be compounded with the tanning agents without affecting the activity of the latter to generate the melanin pigment . the presence in the stratum corneum of certain metal salts can have an accelerating effect on the formation of melanin as described herein , even in the absence of exposure to actinic energy of sunlight . acceleration of melanin formation can be increased by as much as 5 to 10 times the normal rate , depending upon the particular metallic salt being employed and the melanin precursor involved . among the metallic cations particularly useful for this purpose are those of copper , iron , zinc and manganese . as these metallic cations have high affinities for the proteins of the stratum corneum they can be readily introduced into the skin tissue by simple treatment of skin with compositions containing such cations . these compositions may vary from lotions and rinses to mousses and shampoos to sprays and soaps . the concentration of metal cations will be determined by the nature of the formulation employed but , in most cases , will be generally in the range of about 0 . 01 to about 2 %. according to a first embodiment of the process of the present invention , an aqueous solution or dispersion of a tanning agent is applied to the skin such as by swabbing or the like , very much in the manner in which most skin products are used . the concentration of the agent that is employed depends on the level of the depth of the desired tanning effect . generally , concentrations of melanin precursor or other agent of between about 0 . 1 and about 10 % by weight will produce a desirable tanning effect . between about 0 . 1 and about 1 . 0 , and preferably about 0 . 2 to about 0 . 8 percent , of the tanning agent in the solution or dispersion will produce a lighter tan , while the provision of about 1 to about 10 %, and preferably about 2 to about 5 percent , of melanin precursor will produce a deeper color . according to another embodiment of the process of the present invention , an aqueous - alcoholic lotion , containing up to about 50 % by volume ethanol or isopropanol , and preferably 5 to 25 % by volume ethanol or isopropanol can also be employed . according to a further embodiment , a cream composition containing a natural tanning assistant , such as 5 , 6 - dihydroxyindole ( dhi ) and analogs thereof ( e . g ., 5 , 6 - dihydroxyindole - 2carboxylic acid ), 5 , 6 - dimethoxyindole , cysteinyl - dopa and its analogs ( e . g ., 2 - cysteinyl - dopa ; 5 - cysteinyl - dopa ) 5 , 6 - methylenedioxyindole or like is applied to the skin prior to exposure to the sun . in embodiments , the invention concerns cosmetic compositions designed to impart to the skin a coloring which is substantially similar to natural tanning , characterized in that the composition contains , in a cosmetically acceptable base suitable for topical application , at least one compound of formula i : ## str1 ## in which r 1 denotes a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group ; r 2 denotes a hydrogen atom , or a carboxyl group , or a carboxy ester group ; and r 3 and r 4 each denote hydrogen or methyl groups ; or r 3 and r 4 together represent a methylene group which is necessary to complete 5 - membered heterocyclic ring ; or r 3 and r 4 are ester groups existing in a ring structure , e . g ., a carbonate group . a preferred group of compounds are of formula ii : ## str2 ## wherein r 5 and r 6 are each hydrogen or together are part of a cysteinyl group , i . e ., -- s -- ch 2 ch ( nh 2 ( co 2 h ). the compositions containing tanning assistants , agents or catalysts can be prepared in a manner well known to those skilled in the art . suitably the concentration of the tanning agent can be between about 0 . 1 to about 10 % and preferably between about 1 to about 5 %. the rate of conversion of the melanin precursors into melanin , either by activation or acceleration , by the actinic energy of sunlight depends on the intensity of the solar radiation and concentration of the ingredients . the development of the melanin requires a time period corresponding to the maximum period for which untanned skin can be safely exposed to sunlight . as the melanin develops , the screening effect against damage increases . during the period of melanin development with the applied composition , a tan develops within the stratum . corneum . this tanning does not interfere with the natural tanning process that takes place in the malphigian layer . when the melanin pigmentation is developed in the stratum corneum , tanning in the malphigian will further augment the filtering of the uvb and uva light already filtered by the melanin deposit in the stratum corneum . in addition to providing protection by use of compositions containing a melanin precursor or a melanin precursor like material , it is also possible to employ compositions containing both melanin and one or more melanin precursors or precursor like substances . the melanin in the composition provides an immediate screening effect as well as providing a tanned appearance which esthetically is very desirable for most users . while the invention will now be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments in the following examples so that aspects thereof may be more fully understood and appreciated , it is not intended to limit the invention to these particular embodiments . on the contrary , it is intended to cover all alternatives , modifications and equivalents as may be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims . thus , the following examples which include preferred embodiments will serve to illustrate the practice of this invention , it being understood that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of preferred embodiments of the present invention only and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of formulation procedures as well as of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention . the composition after mixing has the appearance of a thick creamy lotion . when applied to skin and followed by exposure to sunlight , it produced a grey - brown tan . the composition after mixing has the appearance of a clear viscous lotion . when applied to skin which has just been washed with a copper salt - containing soap ( 0 . 2 % of copper ), it rapidly yields dark brown coloration similar to extensive darkening produced by sun exposure . the composition after mixing has the consistency of a thin lotion . when applied to skin and followed by exposure to sunlight , it imparted to skin an intense yellow - brown tan . additional ingredients can be included in the compositions of the present invention . accordingly , materials such as polymeric film formers , well known in the prior art and used in cosmetic applications , may be used to protect the applied materials from accidental rub - off or to offer water repellency . materials of this type include polyvinyl alcohol , cationic polymers such as polyquaternium - 8 , polyquaternium - 4 , hydrophobic complexes of cationic polymers with anionic detergents , an example of which may be the complex formed between polyquaternium - 6 and ammonium lauryl sulfate , and many others . to enhance both the efficiency of these compositions and their cosmetic appeal , materials well known in the art to achieve these objectives may be added . examples of these include urea , petrolatum , glycerin , pyrrolidone carboxylic acid , lanolin , ethoxylated long chain alcohols and the like . another novel feature of the present invention is that the method can be used to treat the skin condition known as vitiligo . the melanin precursor formulations can be applied to those portions of the skin which are devoid of pigment and then exposed to light . applications could be repeated until the contrast between the affected area of the skin and the normal area is substantially reduced . while the present invention has been described by means of the foregoing examples , it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto , reference being had to the claims for a definition of the scope of the invention . | US-23712388-A |
a method and associated structure for forming a free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device is described . the method includes providing a carbon nanotube on a substrate in such a way as to have a free - standing portion . one way of forming a free - standing portion of the carbon nanotube is to remove a portion of the substrate . another described way of forming a free - standing portion of the carbon nanotube is to dispose a pair of metal electrodes on a first substrate portion , removing portions of the first substrate portion adjacent to the metal electrodes , and conformally disposing a second substrate portion on the first substrate portion to form a trench . | described embodiments of the invention provide a method and associated structure for forming an electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device having well characterized p - type regions and n - type regions , allowing for the creation of nanoscale electronic devices , such as photovoltaic diodes , power devices , photodiodes , photo detectors , light - emitting diodes (“ leds ”), and the like , with enhanced performance characteristics . one specific form of electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device is a free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device . more specifically , embodiments of the invention provide for the use of a plurality of doping electrodes that are decoupled from a plurality of bias electrodes . thus , the doping of a carbon nanotube may be finely tuned by varying the bias of each of the plurality of bias electrodes . advantageously , the described method and associated structure are capable of providing a carbon nanotube having a p - n junction , a p - i - p junction , a p - i - n junction , an n - i - p junction , an n - i - n junction , a p - n - p junction or an n - p - n junction . referring to fig1 , an electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 10 is illustrated including a carbon nanotube 12 having a first end 14 and a second end 16 . the carbon nanotube 12 may be either a single - walled carbon nanotube (“ swcnt ”) or a multi - walled carbon nanotube (“ mwcnt ”). the carbon nanotube 12 has a length of between about 0 . 1 microns and about 10 microns and a diameter of between about 0 . 4 nm and about 20 nm , however other suitable dimensions may be used . in general , a carbon nanotube may act as a metal or a semiconductor material , depending upon its chirality ( i . e ., conformational geometry ). preferably , the carbon nanotube 12 of the present invention acts as a semiconductor material . the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 is disposed adjacent to and in direct electrical contact with a first metal contact 18 . likewise , the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 is disposed adjacent to and in direct electrical contact with a second metal contact 20 . the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 are each made of ti , mo , au , cr or the like , and each has an area or size of between about 0 . 1 microns by about 10 microns and about 1 micron by about 10 microns . in general , any dimensions that provide adequate electrical contact with the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 may be used . the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 may be disposed either above or below the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 , respectively . the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 are disposed on the surface of a dielectric material 22 . the dielectric material 22 includes sio 2 , si 3 n 4 , al 2 o 3 , zro 2 or the like . a first metal electrode 24 and a second metal electrode 26 are disposed within the dielectric material 22 , adjacent to and at a distance from the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , respectively . because of this separation , the first metal electrode 24 is capacitively coupled to the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second metal electrode 26 is capacitively coupled to the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 . preferably , the distance between the first metal electrode 24 and the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second metal electrode 26 and the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 is between about 2 nm and about 100 nm , respectively . the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 are each made of mo , ti , pt , au , cr or the like , and each has an area or size of between about 0 . 1 microns by about 10 microns and about 1 micron by about 10 microns . advantageously , the area or size of the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 may be selected to achieve a desired spacing between the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 . the significance of this spacing is described in detail below . preferably , the first metal electrode 24 is separated from the second metal electrode by a distance of between about 100 nm and about 1 micron . the dielectric material 22 is disposed on the surface of a semiconductor material 28 , such as si , sic or the like . alternatively , the dielectric material 22 is disposed on the surface of a metal layer 28 , such as al , cr , mo , ti , pt or the like . as described above , the carbon nanotube 12 has a first end 14 and a second end 16 . accordingly , a center section 30 is disposed between the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 . in one embodiment of the present invention , a portion of the semiconductor material 28 is disposed adjacent to and at a distance from the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 , with the dielectric material 22 , a portion of the first metal electrode 24 and a portion of the second metal electrode 26 disposed between the semiconductor material 28 and the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 . in an alternative embodiment of the present invention , a portion of the semiconductor material 28 is disposed adjacent to and at a distance from the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 , with only the dielectric material 22 disposed between the semiconductor material 28 and the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 . again , this difference relates to the spacing between the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 and its significance is described in detail below . referring to fig2 , the structure for forming an electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 10 ( fig1 ) is represented by a circuit diagram . the first metal contact (“ m 1 ”) 18 is electrically coupled to the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second metal contact (“ m 2 ”) 20 is electrically coupled to the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 . similarly , the first metal electrode (“ vc 1 ”) 24 is capacitively coupled to the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second metal electrode (“ vc 2 ”) 26 is capacitively coupled to the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 . in this respect , vc 1 24 and vc 2 26 form a first gate and a second gate , respectively . in the alternative embodiment of the present invention described above , with only the dielectric material 22 ( fig1 ) disposed between the semiconductor material 28 and the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 , the semiconductor material (“ si ”) 28 is capacitively coupled to the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 and forms a third gate , which otherwise does not exist . in operation , a first bias is applied to vc 1 24 , resulting in the electrostatic doping of the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 . likewise , a second bias is applied to vc 2 26 , resulting in the electrostatic doping of the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 . depending upon the bias applied , the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 and the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 may each be made a p - type semiconductor ( hole majority carrier ) or an n - type semiconductor ( electron majority carrier ). if the first end 14 of the carbon nanotube 12 is made a p - type semiconductor and the second end 16 of the carbon nanotube 12 is made an n - type semiconductor , or vice versa , the result is a p - n junction . a p - n junction may be used to form a light - emitting diode (“ led ”), as is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art . the preferred voltage range of the structure for forming an electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 10 is between about +/− 1 v and about +/− 30 v for vc 1 24 and vc 2 26 . in the alternative embodiment of the invention described above , with only the dielectric material 22 disposed between si 28 and the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 , si 28 is used to modulate the doping of the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 . thus , the center section 30 of the carbon nanotube 12 may be made a p - type semiconductor , an i - type ( intrinsic ) semiconductor or an n - type semiconductor . this results in a number of possible configurations , summarized in table 1 below , and a number of possible devices , well known to those of ordinary skill in the art . referring to fig3 and 4 , in another embodiment of the invention , a method for forming an electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device includes first providing the semiconductor layer 28 described above . again , the semiconductor layer 28 includes si , sic or the like . alternatively , a metal layer 28 may be provided , such as al , cr , mo , ti , pt or the like . preferably , the semiconductor layer 28 has a thickness of between about 1 micron and about 550 microns . a first insulating layer 40 is deposited or grown on the surface of the semiconductor layer 28 using a thermal oxide , a chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a plasma - enhanced chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a low - pressure chemical vapor deposition dielectric or the like . the first insulating layer 40 includes sio 2 , si 3 n 4 , al 2 o 3 , zro 2 or the like . preferably , the first insulating layer 40 has a thickness of between about 2 nm and about 100 nm . following the deposition or growth of the first insulating layer 40 , a metal electrode material is patterned and deposited on the surface of the first insulating layer 40 to form the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 described above . the metal electrode material includes mo , ti , pt , au , cr or the like . preferably , the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 each have a thickness of between about 10 nm and about 100 nm . referring to fig5 , a second insulating layer 42 is then deposited or grown on the surface of the first insulating layer 40 , substantially surrounding the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 , using a chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a plasma - enhanced chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a low - pressure chemical vapor deposition dielectric or the like . the second insulating layer 42 includes sio 2 , si 3 n 4 , al 2 o 3 , zro 2 or the like . preferably , the second insulating layer 42 has a thickness of between about 2 nm and about 100 nm . collectively , the first insulating layer 40 and the second insulating layer 42 form the dielectric layer 22 described above . following the deposition or growth of the second insulating layer 42 , a metal contact material is patterned and deposited on the surface of the second insulating layer 42 to form the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 described above . the metal contact material includes ti , mo , au , cr or the like . preferably , the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 each have a thickness of between about 10 nm and about 100 nm . referring to fig6 , a catalyst material 44 suitable for growing a carbon nanotube is then patterned and deposited on the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 using , for example , a lift - off technique , well known to those of ordinary skill in the art . the catalyst material 44 may take the form of a thin film or a nanoparticle and includes ni , fe , co , mo , al 2 o 3 in fe nitrate or the like . preferably , the catalyst material 44 has a thickness of between about 0 . 1 nm and about 1 nm . prior to depositing the catalyst material 44 on the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , as well as the dielectric layer 22 , may be selectively coated with photo - resist . this photo - resist forms the appropriate pattern for the deposition of the catalyst material 44 and is subsequently removed . it should be noted that the catalyst material may be selectively deposited on the surface of only one of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 . following the deposition of the catalyst material 44 , the carbon nanotube 12 described above is grown , as illustrated in fig7 . preferably , the carbon nanotube 12 is aligned substantially parallel to the surface of the dielectric layer 22 . in general , the carbon nanotube 12 is grown in a chemical vapor deposition ( cvd ) tube coupled to a flowing carbon ( hydrocarbon ) source , such as a methane source or an acetylene source , at between about 700 degrees c . and about 1000 degrees c . the catalyst material 44 forms a plurality of “ islands ” at these temperatures and becomes supersaturated with carbon . eventually , the carbon nanotube 12 grows from these catalyst islands . this process is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art . referring to fig8 , a free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 110 having a carbon nanotube 112 is shown . the free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 110 may be useful in photovoltaic devices , sensors , and / or power devices . when the carbon nanotube 112 is suspended as shown , the resulting diode exhibits a more ideal behavior , and such a configuration is better suited for electronic devices in general and more specifically for photovoltaics . the carbon nanotube 112 has a first end 114 and a second end 116 . the carbon nanotube 112 extends between and contacts a first metal contact 18 , through the first end 114 , and a second metal contact 20 , through the second end 116 . the carbon nanotube 112 may be either a single - walled carbon nanotube (“ swcnt ”) or a multi - walled carbon nanotube (“ mwcnt ”). the carbon nanotube 112 is similar in physical appearance , configuration , and size to the carbon nanotube 12 ( fig1 ). the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 may comprise ti , mo , au , cr , or the like , and each may comprise an area or size of between about 0 . 1 microns by about 10 microns and about 1 micron by about 10 microns . in general , however , it should be appreciated that any dimensions providing adequate electrical contact with the ends of the carbon nanotube 112 may be used . the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 may be disposed either above or below the ends 114 , 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 . the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 are disposed on the surface of a substrate 22 , such as , for example , a dielectric material . the dielectric material 22 may be formed of sio 2 , si 3 n 4 , al 2 o 3 , zro 2 , or the like . a first metal electrode 24 and a second metal electrode 26 are disposed within the dielectric material 22 , adjacent to and at a distance from the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , respectively . because of this separation , the first metal electrode 24 is capacitively coupled to the first end 114 of the carbon nanotube 112 and the second metal electrode 26 is capacitively coupled to the second end 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 . in certain embodiments , the distance between the first metal electrode 24 and the first end 114 of the carbon nanotube 112 and the second metal electrode 26 and the second end 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 is between about 2 nm and about 100 nm , respectively . the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 are each made of mo , ti , pt , au , cr or the like , and each has an area or size of between about 0 . 1 microns by about 10 microns and about 1 micron by about 10 microns . advantageously , the area or size of the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 may be selected to achieve a desired spacing between the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 . the significance of this spacing has been described in detail . the dielectric material 22 is disposed on the surface of a base material 28 . the base material 28 may be a semiconductor material formed of si , sic , or the like . alternatively , the base material 28 may be a metal layer 28 , such as a layer comprising al , cr , mo , ti , pt , or the like . a trench 128 is formed in the dielectric material 22 , thus allowing the carbon nanotube 112 to be free - standing in that location . enabling the carbon nanotube 112 to be free - standing from the dielectric material 22 allows for enhanced light emission when the carbon nanotube 112 is biased as a p - n junction diode . with specific reference to fig9 , the free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 110 is represented by a circuit diagram . the first metal contact (“ m 1 ”) 18 is electrically coupled to the first end 114 of the carbon nanotube 112 and the second metal contact (“ m 2 ”) 20 is electrically coupled to the second end 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 . similarly , the first metal electrode (“ vc 1 ”) 24 is capacitively coupled to the first end 114 of the carbon nanotube 112 and the second metal electrode (“ vc 2 ”) 26 is capacitively coupled to the second end 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 . in this respect , vc 1 24 and vc 2 26 form a first gate and a second gate , respectively . in operation , a first bias is applied to vc 1 24 , resulting in the electrostatic doping of the first end 114 of the carbon nanotube 112 . likewise , a second bias is applied to vc 2 26 , resulting in the electrostatic doping of the second end 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 . depending upon the bias applied , the first end 114 of the carbon nanotube 112 and the second end 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 may each be made a p - type semiconductor ( hole majority carrier ) or an n - type semiconductor ( electron majority carrier ). if the first end 114 of the carbon nanotube 112 is made a p - type semiconductor and the second end 116 of the carbon nanotube 112 is made an n - type semiconductor , or vice versa , the result is a p - n junction . a p - n junction may be used to form a light - emitting diode (“ led ”), a photovoltaic diode , a power device , a photo diode , a photo detector , or the like . the preferred voltage range of the structure for forming an electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 10 is between about +/− 1 v and about +/− 30 v for vc 1 24 and vc 2 26 . single - walled carbon nanotubes are direct bandgap semiconductors and thus one or more of the free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube devices 110 may be utilized in a photovoltaic device , sensor , and / or a power device . fig1 illustrates the photovoltaic responses of a single free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 110 . the graph shows a shift in the current voltage characteristics of the free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 110 under progressively higher illumination intensity . the progressive shift to the fourth quadrant means greater power is being generated by the diode . referring now to fig1 - 16 , there is shown process steps for forming a free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 110 . as an initial step ( fig1 and 12 ), an insulating layer 40 is deposited or grown on the surface of the semiconductor layer 28 . the first insulating layer 40 may be formed using a thermal oxide , a chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a plasma - enhanced chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a low - pressure chemical vapor deposition dielectric , or the like . the first insulating layer 40 may comprise sio 2 , si 3 n 4 , al 2 o 3 , zro 2 , or the like . preferably , the first insulating layer 40 has a thickness of between about 2 nm and about 1000 nm . following the deposition or growth of the first insulating layer 40 , a metal electrode material is patterned and deposited on the surface of the first insulating layer 40 to form the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 described above . the metal electrode material may be formed of mo , ti , pt , au , cr , or the like . preferably , the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 each have a thickness of between about 10 nm and about 100 nm . referring to fig1 , a second insulating layer 42 is then deposited or grown on the surface of the first insulating layer 40 , substantially surrounding the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 . the second insulating layer 42 may be formed using a chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a plasma - enhanced chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a low - pressure chemical vapor deposition dielectric or the like . the second insulating layer 42 includes sio 2 , si 3 n 4 , al 2 o 3 , zro 2 or the like . preferably , the second insulating layer 42 has a thickness of between about 2 nm and about 100 nm . collectively , the first insulating layer 40 and the second insulating layer 42 form the dielectric layer 22 described above . following the deposition or growth of the second insulating layer 42 , a metal contact material is patterned and deposited on the surface of the second insulating layer 42 to form the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 described above ( fig1 ). the metal contact material may comprise ti , mo , au , cr or the like . preferably , the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 each have a thickness of between about 10 nm and about 100 nm . referring to fig1 , a catalyst material 44 suitable for growing a carbon nanotube is then patterned and deposited on the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 using , for example , a lift - off technique , which is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art . the catalyst material 44 may take the form of a thin film or a nanoparticle and may include elements such as ni , fe , co , or mo , or mixtures such as al 2 o 3 in fe nitrate , or the like . in some embodiments , the catalyst material 44 has a thickness of between about 0 . 1 nm and about 1 nm . prior to depositing the catalyst material 44 on the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , as well as the dielectric layer 22 , may be selectively coated with photo - resist . the photo - resist serves to form the appropriate pattern for the deposition of the catalyst material 44 and is subsequently removed . it should be noted that the catalyst material 44 may be selectively deposited on the surface of only one of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 . following the deposition of the catalyst material 44 , the carbon nanotube 112 described above is grown , as illustrated in fig1 . preferably , the carbon nanotube 112 is aligned substantially parallel to the surface of the dielectric layer 22 . in general , the carbon nanotube 112 is grown in a chemical vapor deposition ( cvd ) tube coupled to a flowing carbon ( hydrocarbon ) source , such as a methane source or an acetylene source , at between about 700 degrees c . and about 1000 degrees c . the catalyst material 44 forms a plurality of “ islands ” at these temperatures and becomes supersaturated with carbon . eventually , the carbon nanotube 112 grows from these catalyst islands . this process is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art . finally , as shown in fig1 , a trench 128 is etched in the dielectric layer 22 to enable the carbon nanotube 112 to be free - standing . referring now to fig1 - 21 , there is shown an alternative method for forming a free - standing electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube device 110 . as an initial step ( fig1 ), an insulating layer 40 is deposited or grown on the surface of the semiconductor layer 28 . the first insulating layer 40 may be formed using a thermal oxide , a chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a plasma - enhanced chemical vapor deposition dielectric , a low - pressure chemical vapor deposition dielectric , or the like . following the deposition or growth of the first insulating layer 40 , a metal electrode material is patterned and deposited on the surface of the first insulating layer 40 to form the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 described above . referring to fig1 , a portion of the first insulating layer 40 is removed to form an altered first insulating layer 40 a . suitable removal processes include etching and lithographic techniques . the first and second metal electrodes 24 , 26 may be used as masks during an etching or lithography process . suitable etchant material for etching the first insulating layer 40 a includes wet etchants such as buffered oxide etch for sio 2 or plasma dry etchants . an open area 127 is formed between the first and second metal electrodes 24 , 26 through the etching process . with reference to fig2 , a second insulating layer 42 a is then deposited or grown on the surface of the etched first insulating layer 40 a , substantially surrounding the first metal electrode 24 and the second metal electrode 26 . the second insulating layer 42 a conforms to the etched first insulating layer 40 a . the conformance of the second insulating layer 42 a at the open area 127 allows for the formation of a trench 128 between the first and second metal electrodes 24 , 26 . following the deposition or growth of the second insulating layer 42 a , a metal contact material is patterned and deposited on the surface of the second insulating layer 42 to form the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 . referring to fig2 , a catalyst material 44 suitable for growing a carbon nanotube is then patterned and deposited on the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 using , for example , a lift - off technique , which is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art . prior to depositing the catalyst material 44 on the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , the surfaces of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 , as well as the dielectric layer 22 , may be selectively coated with photo - resist . the photo - resist serves to form the appropriate pattern for the deposition of the catalyst material 44 and is subsequently removed . it should be noted that the catalyst material 44 may be selectively deposited on the surface of only one of the first metal contact 18 and the second metal contact 20 . following the deposition of the catalyst material 44 , the carbon nanotube 112 described above is grown , as illustrated in fig2 . while the invention has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments , it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to such disclosed embodiments . rather , the invention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations , alterations , substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described , but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the invention . for example , while embodiments of the invention have been described in terms of a single electrostatically - doped carbon nanotube , it should be appreciated that an array , or suite , of electrostatically - doped carbon nanotubes 12 , 112 may be arranged to form numerous power devices . additionally , while various embodiments of the invention have been described , it is to be understood that aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments . accordingly , the invention is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description , but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims . | US-6066705-A |
a chuck including a body with a nose section defining an axial bore formed therein , a plurality of jaws movably disposed with respect to the body , and a sleeve rotatably mounted about the body so that rotation of the sleeve moves the jaws relative to the axial bore . a bearing has a first race , a second race , and at least one bearing element disposed therebetween , one of the first race and the second race defining a ratchet and the other defining a pawl biased toward the ratchet . a biasing element is disposed between the pawl and the sleeve . the biasing element exerts a biasing force on the pawl toward the ratchet and the ratchet and the pawl prevent the second race from rotating in the opening direction with respect to the first race when engaged . | reference will now be made in detail to presently preferred embodiments of the invention , one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings . each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention , not limitation of the invention . in fact , it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit thereof . for instance , features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used on another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment . thus , it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the present disclosure . referring to fig1 and 2 , a prior art chuck 10 includes a body 14 , a nut 16 , a front sleeve 18 , a nose piece 20 and a plurality of jaws 22 . body 14 is generally cylindrical in shape and comprises a nose or forward section 24 and a tail or rearward section 26 . nose section 24 has a front face 28 transverse to the longitudinal center axis 30 of body 14 and a tapered surface 32 at its forward end . the nose section defines an axial bore 34 that is dimensioned somewhat larger than the largest tool shank that the tool is designed to accommodate . a threaded bore 36 is formed in tail section 26 and is of a standard size to mate with the drive shaft of a powered or hand driver ( not shown ). the bores 34 , 36 may communicate at a central region 38 of body 14 . while a threaded bore 36 is illustrated , such bore could be replaced with a tapered bore of a standard size to mate with a tapered drive shaft . furthermore , body 14 may be formed integrally with the drive shaft . body 14 defines three passageways 40 to accommodate the three jaws . each jaw is separated from the adjacent jaw by an arc of approximately 120 °. the axes of passageways 40 and jaws 22 are angled with respect to the chuck center axis 30 such that each passageway axis travels through axial bore 34 and intersects axis 30 at a common point ahead of the chuck body . the jaws form a grip that moves radially toward and away from the chuck axis to grip a tool , and each jaw 22 has a tool engaging face 42 generally parallel to the axis of chuck body 14 . threads 44 , formed on the jaw &# 39 ; s opposite or outer surface , may be constructed in any suitable type and pitch . as shown in fig5 , each jaw 22 may be formed with a carbide insert 112 pressed into its tool engaging surface . as illustrated in fig1 and 2 , body 14 includes a thrust ring 46 that , preferably , may be integral with the body . it should be understood , however , that thrust ring 46 and body 14 may be separate components . thrust ring 46 includes a plurality of jaw guideways 48 formed around its circumference to permit retraction of jaws 22 therethrough and also includes a ledge portion 50 to receive a bearing assembly as described below . body tail section 26 includes a knurled surface 54 that receives an optional rear sleeve 12 in a press fit at 55 . rear sleeve 12 could also be retained by press fit without knurling , by use of a key or by crimping , staking , riveting , threading or any other suitable securing mechanism . further , the chuck may be constructed with a single sleeve having no rear sleeve . nose piece 20 retains nut 16 against forward axial movement . the nose piece is press fit to body nose section 24 . it should be understood , however , that other methods of axially securing the nut on the body may be used . for example , the nut may be a two - piece nut held on the body within a circumferential groove on the outer circumference of the body . nose piece 20 may be coated with a non - ferrous metallic coating to prevent rust and to enhance its appearance . examples of suitable coatings include zinc or nickel , although it should be appreciated that any suitable coating could be utilized . the outer circumferential surface of front sleeve 18 may be knurled or may be provided with longitudinal ribs 77 or other protrusions to enable the operator to grip it securely . in like manner , the circumferential surface of rear sleeve 12 , if employed , may be knurled or ribbed as at 79 if desired . front sleeve 18 is secured from movement in the forward axial direction by an annular shoulder 91 on nose piece 20 . a frustoconical section 95 at the rearward end of the nose piece facilitates movement of jaws 22 within the chuck . the front and rear sleeves may be molded or otherwise fabricated from a structural plastic such as polycarbonate , a filled polypropylene , for example a glass filled polypropylene , or a blend of structural plastic materials . other composite materials such as , for example , graphite filled polymerics may also be suitable in certain environments . as should be appreciated by one skilled in the art , the materials from which the chuck is fabricated will depend on the end use of the chuck . nut 16 has threads 56 for mating with jaw threads 44 . nut 16 is positioned about the body in engagement with the jaw threads so that when the nut is rotated with respect to body 14 , the jaws will be advanced or retracted depending on the nut &# 39 ; s rotational direction . as illustrated in fig3 , the nut &# 39 ; s forward axial face includes recesses 62 that receive respective drive dogs 64 ( fig2 ) extending from the inner surface of front sleeve 18 . the angular width of the drive dogs is less than that of the recesses , resulting in a slight range of relative rotational movement , for example between 6 ° and 10 ° between the nut and the front sleeve . nut 16 also defines a plurality of grooves formed as flats 68 about the nut &# 39 ; s outer circumference . flats 68 receive respective tabs 70 extending forward from an inner race 72 of a bearing assembly 74 . the engagement of tabs 70 and flats 68 rotationally fix the inner race to the nut , although it should be understood that there may be a slight rotational tolerance between the two . inner race 72 receives a plurality of bearing elements , in this case bearing balls 76 , disposed between it and an outer race 78 seated on thrust ring ledge 50 ( fig1 ). outer race 78 is rotationally fixed to body 14 by a plurality of tabs 80 received in corresponding grooves 82 in the thrust ring ledge . in an embodiment of the invention described herein , outer race 78 is not rotationally fixed with respect to the thrust ring , and tabs 80 and grooves 82 are therefore omitted . in such embodiment , outer race 78 can rotate with respect to the body until the jaws close onto a tool shank , at which point rearward force from the nut through the bearing gives rise to friction between outer race 78 and the thrust ring that holds the outer race in place rotationally on the body . returning to the prior art chuck in fig1 through 3 , outer race 78 also includes a ratchet formed by a plurality of sawtooth - shaped teeth 84 disposed about the inner circumferential surface of the outer race . a first pawl 86 extends from one side of each tab 70 . first pawl 86 is biased radially outward from the inner race , thereby urging a distal end 88 of each first pawl 86 towards the outer race ratchet . each tooth 84 has a first side with a slope approaching 90 ° with the periphery of the outer race . a second side of each tooth 84 has a lesser slope . first pawl 86 is deflectable and is generally disposed in alignment with the slope of the second side . thus , rotation of inner race 72 in a closing direction 90 with respect to outer race 78 moves first pawl distal ends 88 repeatedly over teeth 84 , causing a clicking sound each as end 88 falls against each subsequent tooth second side . this configuration of teeth and first pawls 86 , however , prevents the inner race &# 39 ; s rotation in an opposite opening direction 92 . application of rotational force to the inner race in this direction forces distal ends 88 into the steep - sloped first sides of teeth 84 . since pawl 86 is generally perpendicular to the first sides , it does not deflect inward to permit rotation . as discussed below , direction 90 corresponds to the chuck &# 39 ; s closing direction , while direction 92 corresponds to the chuck &# 39 ; s opening direction . accordingly , when pawls 86 engage ratchet teeth 84 , the teeth permit the inner race &# 39 ; s movement in the chuck &# 39 ; s closing direction 90 but prevent its movement in the opening direction 92 . a second deflectable pawl 94 extends from the other side of each tab 70 . like first pawls 86 , each second pawl 94 is biased radially outward . unlike first pawls 86 , however , second pawls 94 do not engage the outer race ratchet . first and second pawls 86 and 94 include tabs 96 and 98 , respectively , at their distal ends . referring also to fig4 a , an inner circumferential surface of sleeve 18 defines first and second recesses 100 and 102 . during the chuck &# 39 ; s operation , each tab 98 is received in one of these recesses , depending on the sleeve &# 39 ; s rotational position with respect to the nut as discussed in more detail below . the sleeve also defines a third recess 104 and a cam surface 106 . also depending on the sleeve &# 39 ; s rotational position , each tab 96 is received either by the cam surface or by recess 104 . the sleeve includes a pair of recesses 100 , 102 for each tab 98 and a recess 104 and cam surface 106 for each tab 96 . fig4 c illustrates the disposition of pawls 86 and 94 when sleeve 18 is in a first of two positions with respect to nut 16 , while fig4 b illustrates these components when the sleeve is in a second position with respect to the nut . for ease of illustration , both figures omit the nut . however , referring to fig2 and to the sleeve &# 39 ; s second position as shown in fig4 b , each drive dog 64 is disposed against or adjacent to a side 108 of the gap 62 in which it is received . each of the sleeve &# 39 ; s recesses 102 receives a tab 98 of a second pawl 94 , and each recess 104 receives a tab 96 of a first pawl 86 . accordingly , the distal end 88 of each first pawl 86 engages ratchet teeth 84 , and inner race 72 can rotate only in direction 90 with respect to outer race 78 . referring now to fig4 c , when front sleeve 18 moves in opening direction 92 with respect to outer race 78 , each tab 98 moves out of its recess 102 and into its recess 100 , as indicated by arrow 107 . each tab 96 rides up and out of its recess 104 onto its cam surface 106 , as indicated by arrow 110 . as indicated by arrow 113 , this pushes each deflectable tab 86 radially inward , thereby disengaging distal ends 88 from ratchet teeth 84 . thus , the inner race is free to rotate with respect to the outer race . as described in more detail below , when sleeve 18 rotates in opening direction 92 so that the inner race moves from the position shown in fig4 b to the position shown in fig4 c , drive dogs 64 move within groove 62 of nut 16 ( fig2 ) so that each drive dog is against or immediately adjacent to a side 111 of the groove . in operation and referring to fig2 , 3 , 4 b and 4 c , when the chuck is between the fully opened and the fully closed positions , nut grooves 62 receive drive dogs 64 so that the drive dogs are adjacent groove sides 111 . inner race 72 is disposed with respect to outer race 78 so that tabs 96 and 98 are received by cam surface 106 and recess 100 , respectively . that is , sleeve 18 is in the first position with respect to the nut , as shown in fig4 c . in this condition , tabs 98 and recesses 100 rotationally fix inner race 72 to sleeve 18 . since inner race 72 is rotationally fixed to nut 16 by tabs 70 and flats 68 , an operator rotating sleeve 18 rotationally drives the nut through the bearing &# 39 ; s inner race 72 , thereby opening or closing the jaws . when the operator rotates the sleeve , the bearing inner race and the nut in the closing direction ( indicated by arrow 90 in fig4 c ) to the point that the jaws tighten onto a tool shank , the nut is urged rearward up the jaw threads , thereby pushing the nut against inner race 72 , bearing elements 76 , outer race 78 , and thrust ring 46 . the rearward force creates a frictional lock between the nut and inner race 72 that further holds the inner race and the nut in place rotationally with respect to the body . the wedge between the nut threads and jaw threads increasingly resists the nut &# 39 ; s rotation . when the operator continues to rotate sleeve 18 and the resistance overcomes the hold provided by tabs 98 in recesses 100 , sleeve 18 rotates with respect to nut 16 and inner bearing race 72 . this moves drive dogs 64 from sides 111 of grooves 62 to sides 108 and pushes tabs 98 out of recesses 100 into recesses 102 . simultaneously , cam surfaces 106 rotate away from tabs 96 so that the tabs are released into recesses 104 , thereby engaging distal ends 88 of first pawls 86 with ratchet teeth 84 , as shown in fig4 b . at this point , inner race 72 , and therefore nut 16 , is rotationally locked to outer race 78 , and therefore body 14 , against rotation in the chuck &# 39 ; s opening direction . that is , the nut is rotationally locked to the chuck body in the opening direction . since the nut &# 39 ; s rotation with respect to the body is necessary to open the chuck , this prevents inadvertent opening during use . inner race 72 , and therefore nut 16 , may , however , still rotate with respect to outer race 78 , and therefore body 14 , in the chuck &# 39 ; s closing direction . during such rotation , sleeve 18 drives nut 16 through drive dogs 64 against groove sides 108 , as well as through inner race 72 . this continues to tighten the chuck and as described above and produces a clicking sound to notify the operator that the chuck is in a fully tightened position . to open the chuck , the operator rotates sleeve 18 in opening direction 92 . sleeve 18 transfers this torque to inner race 72 at the engagement of tabs 96 and 98 in recesses 104 and 102 , respectively . because pawls 86 engage outer race 78 , which is rotationally fixed to the body , the inner race cannot rotate with the sleeve . thus , upon application of sufficient torque in opening direction 92 , sleeve 18 moves with respect to the inner race and the nut . this moves tab 96 back up onto cam surface 106 , thereby disengaging first pawl 86 from ratchet teeth 84 . tab 98 moves from second recess 102 into first recess 100 , and drive dogs 64 move from sides 108 to sides 111 of grooves 62 . thus , the sleeve moves to its first position with respect to the nut , as shown in fig4 c , and the inner race and nut are free to rotate with respect to the outer race and chuck body . accordingly , further rotation of sleeve 18 in the opening direction moves jaws 22 away from the chuck axis , thereby opening the chuck . the pawls and ratchet may be formed in any suitable configuration . furthermore , the chuck may be realized in a variety of configurations whereby a bearing having a ratchet configuration is disposed between a sleeve , for example a nut or other suitable configuration , and the chuck body . for example , a chuck may include a body , a nut that is rotationally fixed to and axially movable with respect to the body , and an outer sleeve that threadedly engages the nut so that rotation of the sleeve moves the nut axially on the body . the jaws may be axially fixed to the nut and received in body passageways so that the nut &# 39 ; s axial movement drives the jaws towards and away from the chuck &# 39 ; s axis . in this configuration , an outer sleeve may be permitted to rotate over a limited angular distance with respect to a second sleeve . a bearing including a ratchet configuration as discussed above may be disposed between the second sleeve and the chuck body . depending on the chuck &# 39 ; s configuration , the pawls and ratchet may be interchanged as appropriate . fig6 and 7 illustrate an embodiment of a chuck 11 of the present invention having a body 14 , a nut 16 , a front sleeve 18 ( comprised of a metal outer part 19 , a polymer inner part 21 and a metal insert 17 ), a nose piece 20 and a plurality of jaws 22 . an embodiment shown in fig8 has a front sleeve 18 comprised of a metal outer part 19 and a polymer inner part 21 without a metal insert . body 14 , which is constructed substantially the same as the body described above with respect to fig2 , is generally cylindrical in shape and comprises a nose or forward section 24 and a tail or rearward section 26 . nose section 24 has a forward end 32 that tapers from a smooth cylindrical outer circumference to a front face transverse to the longitudinal center axis of body 14 . the nose section defines an axial bore 34 that is dimensioned somewhat larger than the largest tool shank the tool is designed to accommodate . a threaded bore 36 is formed in tail section 26 and is of a standard size to mate with the drive shaft of a powered or hand driver ( not shown ). front bore 34 and rear bore 36 may communicate at a central region 38 of body 14 . while a threaded bore 36 is illustrated , such bore could be replaced with a tapered bore of a standard size to mate with a tapered drive shaft . furthermore , body 14 may be formed integrally with the drive shaft . a rear ring 37 is also formed integrally with body 14 and defines a plurality of guideways 39 to accommodate jaws 22 in their rearward positions . body 14 defines three passageways 40 to accommodate the three jaws . each jaw is separated from the adjacent jaw by an arc of approximately 120 °. the axes of the jaw passageways and jaws 22 are angled with respect to the chuck center axis such that each passageway axis travels through the forward axial bore in the body and intersects the chuck axis at a common point . the jaws form a grip that moves radially toward and away from the chuck axis to grip a tool , and each jaw 22 has a tool engaging face 42 generally parallel to the axis of chuck body 14 . threads 44 , formed on each jaw &# 39 ; s opposite or outer surface , may be constructed in any suitable type and pitch . as also indicated in fig5 , each jaw 22 may be formed with one or more carbide inserts 112 pressed into its tool engaging surface . as illustrated in fig6 through 8 , body 14 includes a thrust ring 46 that , in a preferred embodiment , may be integral with the body . it should be understood , however , that thrust ring 46 and body 14 may be separate components . thrust ring 46 includes a plurality of jaw guideways 48 formed around its circumference to permit retraction of jaws 22 therethrough and includes a ledge portion 50 to receive a bearing assembly as described below . body tail section 26 includes a knurled surface 54 that receives a dust cover 13 in a press fit . dust cover 13 could also be retained by press fit without knurling , by use of a key or by crimping , staking , riveting , threading or any other suitable securing mechanism . further , the chuck may be constructed with two hand - actuatable sleeves , as shown in fig1 and 2 . nose piece 20 is press fit to body nose section 24 and retains nut 16 against forward axial movement . nose piece 20 may be coated with a non - ferrous metallic coating to prevent rust and to enhance its appearance . examples of suitable coatings include zinc or nickel , although it should be appreciated that any suitable coating could be utilized . it should also be understood that other methods of axially securing the nut on the body may be used . for example , the nut may be a two - piece nut held on the body within a circumferential groove on the body &# 39 ; s outer circumference . front sleeve 18 is secured from movement in the forward axial direction by an annular shoulder 91 on nose piece 20 . a frustoconical section 95 at the rearward end of the nose piece facilitates movement of jaws 22 within the chuck . the outer circumferential surface of front sleeve outer part 19 may knurled or may be provided with longitudinal ribs or other protrusions to enable the operator to grip it securely . outer front sleeve part 19 and metal insert 17 ( fig6 and 7 ) may be deep drawn or otherwise fabricated from steel or other metal material such as zamac ( zinc aluminum metal alloy casting ). the metal insert is preferably steel hardened to an hrc 43 - 51 . inner sleeve part 21 may be molded or otherwise fabricated from a structural plastic such as polycarbonate , a filled polypropylene , for example a glass filled polypropylene , or a blend of structural plastic materials . other composite materials such as , for example , graphite filled polymerics may also be suitable in certain environments . metal insert 17 may be pressed or otherwise assembled inside inner sleeve part 21 in close conformity so that the inner sleeve part retains the metal insert . in one preferred embodiment , inner sleeve part 21 is molded about the metal insert . as should be appreciated by one skilled in the art , the materials from which the chuck of the present invention is fabricated will depend upon the end use of the chuck , and the above materials are provided by way of example only . generally , the outer surface of inner part 21 conforms to the inner surface of outer part 19 . however , polymer inner part 21 defines a plurality of flanges 23 that extend forward from the main portion of the inner sleeve part . flanges 23 include front edges 25 that extend radially outward to thereby define a groove 27 between edges 25 and the front edge of the inner sleeve part &# 39 ; s main portion . the segmented arrangement of flanges 23 allows the flanges to flex inward as the outer part is assembled over the inner part . a front edge 29 of outer sleeve part 19 extends radially inward and is notched to receive flanges 23 . thus , at the notches , front edge 29 extends radially inward into groove 27 , while flanges 23 extend through the notches . thus , groove 27 retains outer sleeve part 19 in the axially forward and rearward directions between the tabs &# 39 ; front edges 25 and the forward edge of the main portion of sleeve inner part 21 . sleeve outer part 19 rotationally drives sleeve inner part 21 through the interengagement of front edge 29 and flanges 23 and through a plurality of spaced - apart dogs ( not shown ) extending radially inward from the outer sleeve part &# 39 ; s inner circumferential surface into corresponding notches 31 in the front outer surface of inner sleeve part 21 . it should be understood that the two - part sleeve shown in fig6 through 8 may be replaced with a unitarily - formed polymer sleeve such as shown in fig1 and 2 . nut 16 has threads 56 for mating with jaw threads 44 and is positioned about the body in engagement with the jaw threads so that when the nut is rotated with respect to body 14 , the jaws will be advanced or retracted depending on the nut &# 39 ; s rotational direction . the nut &# 39 ; s forward axial face includes recesses 62 that receive respective drive dogs 64 extending from the inner surface of inner sleeve part 21 . recesses 62 and drive dogs 64 are constructed as described above with respect to fig2 . similarly , the inner surface of metal insert 17 ( or , in the embodiment of fig8 , sleeve inner part 21 ) defines recesses 100 , 102 and 104 and a cam surface 106 as is described above with respect to the inner surface of sleeve 18 in fig1 and 2 . for the purpose of clarity , the positions of recesses 100 , 102 and 104 and cam surface 106 in inner sleeve part 21 behind insert 17 are indicated in fig6 as recesses 100 a , 102 a , and 104 a , and cam surface 106 a . nut 16 also defines a plurality of grooves , formed as flats 68 about the nut &# 39 ; s outer circumference , that receive respective tabs 70 extending forward from an inner race 72 of a bearing assembly 74 . the engagement of tabs 70 and flats 68 rotationally fix the inner race to the nut , although it should be understood that there may be a slight rotational tolerance between the two . inner race 72 receives a plurality of bearing elements , in this case bearing balls 76 , disposed between it and an outer race 78 seated on thrust ring ledge 50 . outer race 78 is rotationally fixed to body 14 by a plurality of tabs 80 received in corresponding grooves 82 in the thrust ring ledge , as is described above with respect to fig1 and 2 . in an alternate embodiment , outer race 78 is not rotationally fixed with respect to the thrust ring , and the tabs and grooves are therefore omitted . in such alternate embodiment , outer race 78 can rotate with respect to the body until the jaws close onto a tool shank , at which point rearward force from the nut through the bearing gives rise to friction between outer race 78 and thrust ring ledge 50 that ultimately holds the outer race in place rotationally on the body . as discussed above with respect to outer race 78 in fig2 , outer races 78 in fig6 through 8 include a ratchet . in the illustrated embodiments , the ratchet is formed by a plurality of saw tooth - shaped teeth 84 disposed about the outer race &# 39 ; s inner circumferential surface . a first pawl 86 extends from one side of each tab 70 and is biased radially outward from the inner race , thereby urging a distal end 88 of each first pawl 86 toward the outer race ratchet . teeth 84 are formed , and interact with pawl distal end 88 , as described above with respect to the corresponding components of fig1 through 4 . a second deflectable pawl 94 extends from the other side of each tab 70 . like first pawls 86 , each second pawl 94 is biased radially outward . unlike first pawls 86 , second pawls 94 do not engage the outer race ratchet . pawls 86 and 94 are constructed identically to pawls 86 and 94 as described above with respect to fig1 and 2 . first and second pawls 86 and 94 include tabs 96 and 98 , respectively , at their distal ends that interact with recesses 100 , 102 and 104 , and cam surface 106 , in the same manner as described above . moreover , the operation of the chucks shown in fig6 through 8 , with respect to opening , closing and locking by the interaction of pawls 86 and 94 with the inner surface of sleeve 18 ( more particularly , the inner surface of metal insert 17 in fig6 and 7 and inner sleeve part 21 in fig8 ), is the same as the operation of chuck 10 shown in fig1 through 4 , and is therefore not repeated . in drill chuck 10 as shown in fig1 and 2 , nut 16 defines a smooth cylindrical shoulder 130 extending in the axial direction between a curved surface 132 and a transverse annular shoulder 134 extending between shoulder 130 and an annular shoulder 136 upon which flats 68 are defined . in the embodiments of the present invention illustrated in fig6 through 8 , a resilient structure is disposed between shoulder 130 and first and second pawls 86 and 94 in sufficient volume and / or geometry so that the resilient intermediate structure increases the pawls &# 39 ; radially outward bias to thereby dampen vibrations that arise from the chucks &# 39 ; usage with a given power driver and that otherwise tend to dislodge the pawls from their positions with respect to the outer race and sleeve , as shown in fig4 b and 4c . as shown in fig6 through 8 , for example , a groove 138 is formed in shoulder 130 so that , when nut 16 is assembled onto body 14 , groove 138 is defined in a plane perpendicular to the chuck axis and receives an o - ring 140 . in one preferred embodiment , o - ring 140 is made of viton , a fluoroelastomer manufactured by dupont dow elastomers llc of wilmington , del ., and has an axial width of about 1 / 16 inches , an inner diameter of about 1 . 000 inches and an outer diameter of about 1 . 125 inches . the diameter defined by shoulder 130 on either side of groove 138 is approximately 1 . 244 inches , while the diameter of a circle defined by the trough of groove 138 is approximately 1 . 200 inches . thus , o - ring 140 stretches when installed into groove 138 , and its outer diameter becomes approximately 1 . 325 inches . a radius defined from the axis of chuck body 14 to any of pawls 86 and 94 in their positions as shown in fig4 b is approximately 0 . 651 inches , corresponding to a diameter of 1 . 302 inches . first and second pawls 86 and 94 thereby compress o - ring 140 , which , due to its resilience , responsively applies a radially outward force to the pawls . this radially outward force provides a secondary radially outward bias to the pawls that supplements the pawls &# 39 ; inherent radially outward bias and increases the pawls &# 39 ; tendency to remain seated in either of their two above - described positions during the power driver &# 39 ; s operation . that is , o - ring 140 increases resistance to vibrational forces that may tend to push the pawls radially inward out of their respective grooves defined in the inner diameter of the sleeve , thereby inhibiting the chuck from opening or closing during use . it will also be recognized that the increased radially outward bias increases the force necessary to be applied by the user in moving the sleeve between the locking mechanism &# 39 ; s two operative positions . thus , it should be understood that the materials and geometry of o - ring 140 may be selected to dampen vibrations in a power driver having a given power rating while still permitting effective manual operation by the user . for example , it is expected that a drill chuck as described above with respect to fig6 through 8 ( where o - ring 140 has a shore a hardness from 60 to 80 and where outer race 78 is rotationally fixed to body 14 by tabs 80 received in grooves 82 in the thrust ring ) will resist vibrations generated by a model gsb 18 - 2 re 750 watt ac impact drill , manufactured by bosch tool corporation of farmington hills , mich ., such that the chuck does not undesirably open or over tighten . in another preferred embodiment , groove 138 is formed into shoulder 130 in a square cross section , and o - ring 140 is formed in a correspondingly square cross section . the dimensions of the nut and o - ring otherwise remain the same . it should also be understood that various materials may be used to construct o - ring 140 . for example , materials include various suitable elastomers such as acrylonitrile - butadiene ( nbr , buna n , or nitrile rubber ), chloroprene rubber ( cr , or neoprene ), polyacrilic rubber , silicone rubber , butyl rubber ( itr ), styrene - butadiene ( sbr , or buna s rubber ), chlorosulfonated polyethelene ( csm , commercially available under the name hypalon ), or polysulfide rubber ( t , or thiokol polymer ) or thermoplastics such as suitable fluorocarbons ( e . g . teflon tfe or fep ), impact grade polystyrenes comprising polystyrene and rubber , and polyamide resins ( nylon ). o - rings made from commercially available materials such as the fluoroelastomers and perfluoroelastomers viton , kalrez , simriz , chemraz and aflas , and hypalon ( chlorosulfonated polyethylene ), are available from marco rubber & amp ; plastic products , inc . of north andover , mass . the shape of o - ring 140 may vary as desired . for example , o - ring 140 maybe molded into a shape that conforms at its inner diameter to the outer surface of shoulder 130 ( with or without a groove 138 ) and that conforms at its outer circumference to the surfaces of pawls 86 and 94 that face the nut . the molded o - ring is preferably made by compression molding and can be formed from any of the above - described materials suitable for compression or injection molding . the o - ring can be molded as a separate component or can be molded directly around the nut . to determine whether a given dampening structure , whether an o - ring of a selected material and geometry or any other selected resilient device , will sufficiently dampen vibrations for a given chuck configuration on a given driver , the structure may be assembled on a chuck and tested with the driver . referring to the drill chuck as shown in fig6 through 8 , for example , the chuck may be assembled and operated with a drill bit shank so that jaws 22 securely grip the tool shank . an alignment mark is then made axially along the outer surface of sleeve 18 , nose piece 20 and the tool shank so that the mark lies on the sleeve , nose piece and tool shank in a plane that includes the axis of chuck body 14 . the driver / chuck / bit is then operated to drill holes in selected materials , for example steel , concrete , diorite and wood . a hammer function may be applied while drilling in concrete and diorite . after each hole is drilled , or after each of a certain number of holes is drilled , the alignment of the marks on the sleeve , nose piece and bit is checked to determine whether the chuck has undesirably opened or over tightened . the construction of the pawls and ratchet teeth contribute to the resistance of the locking mechanism to vibrations and , consequently , to the degree to which a supplemental outward bias is desirable . for example , the depth of pawl teeth 84 constructed as described above contributes to the effectiveness of the primary outward bias and , in a preferred embodiment as shown in fig6 through 8 , is approximately 14 / 1000 inches . further , pawls 86 and 94 are preferably constructed with sufficient stiffness so that when the inner and outer races are assembled together on the nut ( but apart from the chuck body and jaws ), and the nut and inner race are rotationally secured , at least an about 2 in - lb torque is required to ratchet pawl end 88 over teeth 84 , and in a preferred embodiment , the torque required is within a range of about 2 to about 3 in - lbs . in the example described below in which an about 0 . 7 gram layer of rtv sealant is disposed between the nut and the pawls , the torque required to ratchet the pawl over the ratchet teeth is within a range of about 4 in - lbs to 5 in - lbs . it should also be understood that mechanisms other than o - rings may be used to apply additional bias to the pawls . in another preferred embodiment , for example , groove 138 in shoulder 130 may be omitted , so that shoulder 130 has a smooth surface as in fig1 and 2 , and a spring band is received over the shoulder . the spring band is comprised of a central annular ring that may fit loosely over or be pressed to shoulder 130 . a number of spring arms extend outward from , and are biased radially away from , the central band . there is one spring arm for each pawl 86 and 94 , and a distal end of each spring arm engages its corresponding pawl to thereby apply a supplemental radially outward bias to the pawl . particularly where the spring band &# 39 ; s central ring fits loosely about the nut , the distal end of each spring arm may define tabs shaped correspondingly to tabs 96 and 98 ( see fig3 ) so that the spring arm tabs are received in tabs 96 and 98 to thereby rotationally orient the spring band with respect to inner race 72 . in a further preferred embodiment , shoulder 130 is again smooth , and o - ring 140 is replaced by a layer of silicone rtv ( room - temperature vulcanized ) rubber , for example 732 multi - purpose silicone rtv sealant made by dow corning corporation and available from idg corporation of belmont , n . c . the rtv sealant may be applied manually or automatically . for a construction as shown in fig6 through 8 , in which six pawls 86 and 94 are used , six nozzles may be arranged in a pattern so that when the nozzles are brought to a position proximate shoulder 130 , the nozzles deposit dots of rtv sealant at positions on the shoulder corresponding to the opposing pawls . in a preferred embodiment in which shoulder 130 defines a diameter of approximately 1 . 244 inches , a total of approximately 0 . 7 grams of rtv sealant is disposed on the shoulder . it should be understood , however , that the amount of rtv sealant may vary as desired , with the lower end of the desirable range being the point at which the rtv sealant fails to provide sufficient resilient force for a given chuck and driver , and the upper end of the desirable range being the point at which rtv sealant extends beyond an operative space between shoulder 130 and the pawls and thereby fails to contribute to the additional bias force . in the arrangement ( with a smooth shoulder 130 ) as described above with respect to fig1 and 2 , a range of 0 . 4 grams to 1 . 6 grams was found to be desirable . using a chuck as in fig6 through 8 with the method described above , a 0 . 7 gram layer of rtv sealant was found to dampen vibrations in a model gsb 18 - 2 re 750 watt ac impact drill and a model gsb 20 - 2 rce 1010 watt ac impact drill manufactured by bosch tool corporation of farmington hills , mich . while one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above , it should be understood that any and all equivalent realizations of the present invention are included within the scope and spirit thereof . thus , the depicted embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended as limitations on the present invention . it should be understood that aspects of the various one or more embodiments may be interchanged both in whole or in part . therefore , it is contemplated that any and all such embodiments are included in the present invention as may be fall within the literal or equivalent scope of the present disclosure . | US-201113186296-A |
a method of forming ligated nanoparticles of the formula y x , where y is a nanoparticle selected from the group consisting of elemental metals having atomic numbers ranging from 21 - 34 , 39 - 52 , 57 - 83 and 89 - 102 , all inclusive , the halides , oxides and sulfides of such metals , and the alkali metal and alkaline earth metal halides , and z represents ligand moieties such as the alkyl thiols . in the method , a first colloidal dispersion is formed made up of nanoparticles solvated in a molar excess of a first solvent , a second solvent different than the first solvent and a quantity of ligand moieties ; the first solvent is then removed under vacuum and the ligand moieties ligate to the nanoparticles to give a second colloidal dispersion of the ligated nanoparticles solvated in the second solvent . if substantially monodispersed nanoparticles are desired , the second dispersion is subjected to a digestive ripening process . upon drying , the ligated nanoparticles may form a three - dimensional superlattice structure . | the following example sets forth presently preferred methods for the preparation of ligated nanoparticle superlattices in accordance with the invention . it is to be understood , however , that this example is provided by way of illustration and nothing therein should be taken as a limitation upon the overall scope of the invention . [ 0034 ] fig1 is a flow diagram of the most preferred preparation of gold - containing nanocrystalline superlattice products . this method is also explained in detail below . a stationary reactor described in klabunde , et al ., inorg . syn ., shriver , d ., ed ., 19 , ( 1979 ), 59 - 86 was used for the synthesis of au - acetone - toluene - thiol colloid . acetone and toluene solvents were purchased from fisher . acetone was dried over molecular sieve . both acetone and toluene were degassed five times by the standard freeze - thaw procedure prior to the reaction . dodecanthiol was purchased from aldrich and used as received . all glassware was rigorously cleaned before use . a w — al 2 o 3 crucible was assembled in the smad reactor and the whole system was pumped down . this was followed by a step - wise heating of the crucible and the pressure was allowed to reach 4 × 10 − 3 torr at each heating step . the crucible was heated to red in about half an hour , then the heating was decreased and the whole reactor was left under vacuum overnight while the crucible was gently heated . this process ensured no contamination of the crucible . after the overnight treatment , the reactor was filled with air and the crucible was charged with ˜ 0 . 3 g au metal . at the same time 8 ml ( 6 . 8 g , 3 . 4 × 10 − 2 mol ) of dodecanethiol was placed in the bottom of the reactor chamber together with a stirring bar . degassed acetone and toluene solvents were placed in schlenk tubes and attached to the smad reactor . the whole system was evacuated and a liquid nitrogen filled dewar placed around the vessel . dodecanethiol was frozen in this way in the bottom of the reactor . when the vacuum reached 4 × 10 − 3 torr , 40 ml of toluene was evaporated in ˜ 15 min and frozen on the walls of the reactor . the liquid nitrogen dewar was removed and toluene allowed to melt undisturbed and fall to the bottom of the reactor . the liquid nitrogen dewar was again put in place , and au vapor ( 0 . 27 g , 1 . 4 × 10 − 3 mol ) and acetone ( 100 ml ) were codeposited over a period of 3 hours . during this time , the pressure was maintained at about 4 × 10 − 3 torr . the frozen matrix had a deep red color at the end of the deposition . after the process was complete the liquid nitrogen dewar was removed and the matrix allowed to warm slowly over a period of ˜ 1 hour . during the warmup process argon gas was allowed to fill the reactor system . upon melting the au - acetone matrix mixed with the toluene and the color became deep brown . when the dodecanethiol started to melt , stirring was started and the whole solution was agitated for another 45 min . the as - prepared dark brown au - acetone - toluene - thiol colloid ( colloid 1 ) was syphoned under argon into a schlenk tube . the schlenk tube containing the as - prepared au - acetone - toluene - thiol colloid ( colloid 1 ) was connected to a vacuum line and the acetone was evaporated until a constant 1 × 10 − 2 torr pressure was reached ( the more volatile acetone was removed along with some of the toluene ). at this time the au - toluene - thiol colloid was diluted to 80 ml by addition of degassed toluene . thus the total volume of the final dark brown au - toluene - thiol colloid was 80 ml containing about 0 . 20 g of gold . the digestive ripening process is an important step for formation of a monodispersed colloid from the polydisperse au - toluene - thiol colloid ( colloid 2 ). the procedure involved heating under reflux of a certain amount of au - toluene - thiol colloid for 1 . 5 hours . the heating temperature is the boiling point of the colloidal solution (˜ 120 ° c .). the digestive ripening was carried out under an argon atmosphere . isolation of a dry product was done after the gold - toluene - thiol colloid ( colloid 2 ) was subjected to digestive ripening for 1 . 5 h . after cooling down to room temperature , 10 ml of the digested colloid ( containing 0 . 025 g au ) was precipitated with 50 ml of absolute ethanol . after overnight treatment , the precipitation was complete and the supernatant was carefully removed by sucking out with a pasteur pipette . the remaining precipitate together with a small amount of leftover toluene , thiol and ethanol was dried under vacuum until constant pressure ( 5 × 10 − 3 torr ). after drying , the color of the product was brown - red and it had the appearance of a wet paste . an additional 3 ml of ethanol was added and the system was left undisturbed overnight . the supernatant was then removed and the sediment again was dried under vacuum at constant pressure . after drying the precipitate ( 0 . 0214 g ) was a powder with small shiny - dark crystals . it was washed again with 3 ml of ethanol , left overnight , the supernatant removed and dried under vacuum . after drying , the precipitate was 0 . 0207 g and no change of the mass was recorded after additional washing with ethanol and drying under vacuum . the yield was 84 % based on gold . if the adsorbed thiol is taken into account , the yield was ˜ 73 %. the final dry product was in the form of soft , shiny dark crystals , which are readily soluble in toluene or hexane . after addition of the solvent , the crystals immediately dissolved giving wine - red colored colloidal solution . however , the crystals are not soluble in ethanol or acetone . uv / vis absorption spectra were obtained using a fiber optic ccd array uv - vis spectrophotometer of spectral instruments , inc . tem studies were performed on a philips cm100 operating at 100 kv . the tem samples were prepared by placing a 3 μl drop from the colloidal solution onto a carbon coated formvar copper grid . the grids were allowed to dry in air for 1 hour and left undisturbed at ambient conditions . since the first report in 1986 ( lin , et al ., langmuir , 2 , ( 1986 ), 259 - 260 ) of the synthesis of nonaqueous colloidal gold solutions by the smad method , considerable work has been carried out on the preparation and characterization of several non - aqueous metal nanoscale particles ( franklin , et al ., high - energy processes in organometallic chemistry ; suslick , k . s ., ed ., acs symposium series , ( 1987 ), 246 - 259 ; trivino , et al ., langmuir , 3 , 6 , ( 1987 ), 986 - 992 ). colloidal solutions of gold in acetone have been one of the most intensively studied and well - understood systems . acetone , as a polar solvent , solvates the metal atoms and clusters during the warmup stage . in this way steric stabilization is achieved and gold colloids are stable for months . these earlier results were the motivation for choosing acetone as an initial solvent in the present example . preliminary attempts to improve size - distribution of particles from pure acetone solutions using the digestive ripening procedure turned out unsuccessful , and it was discovered that an additional stabilizing agent like dodecanethiol was needed . however , when only acetone was used as the solvent , addition of dodecanethiol did not allow the formation of a stable colloid . for example , the precipitate formed after addition of dodecanethiol to au - acetone colloids , when separated and dried under vacuum , was only partially redispersable in toluene . digestive ripening of the partially redispersed au - colloids led to the size improvement of only those particles that were redispersed . the particles that remained in the sediment did not change their shape and size during this procedure . therefore , it was found that a combination of solvents such as acetone and toluene was needed during the smad reaction and subsequent cluster growth and ligation by the thiol . the role of acetone was found to be stabilization of the gold nanoparticles in a preliminary way . the size and shape changes of nanoparticles in the different samples were investigated by tem . representative transmission electron micrographs of the gold colloids at each step of the preparative procedure of the monodispersed colloid are shown in the figures . a flow diagram of the major synthetic steps is given in fig1 . the results from the separate preparative stages are discussed below . the initial au - acetone - toluene - thiol colloid has a dark brown color . tem studies of this colloid ( fig2 ) illustrate particles ranging from 5 to 40 nm with no definite geometrical shapes . these particles are very similar to the ones obtained in pure acetone solvent . as reported in the prior art , two types of stabilization are characteristic for these systems : 1 ) steric stabilization ( by solvation with the acetone molecules ) and 2 ) electrostatic stabilization ( by acquiring electrons from the reaction vessel walls , electrodes , solvent medium ). another indication that the gold particles are negatively charged is the occasionally observed ‘ blinking ’ in the electron microscope due to the interaction of the particles with the negatively charged electron beam . however , it should be pointed out that in no case was change in the shape or morphology of the particles observed under the influence of the electron beam . both stabilization processes take place during the warmup step , should to be carried out slowly in order to ensure good stabilization . the au - toluene - thiol colloid ( colloid 2 ) was obtained by vacuum evaporation of all the acetone from colloid 1 . tem micrographs of two representative types of particles found in the colloid are shown in fig3 a and 3b . drastic change of the size and shape of the particles is characteristic at this stage . nearly spherical particles with sizes in the range of 1 to 5 nm are dominant . there are also a small number of larger particles ( 10 - 40 nm ) like those in the initial acetone - containing colloid . uv / vis absorption spectrum ( fig4 ) of colloid 2 is in agreement with the sizes of the particles observed in tem . it is characterized by a broad plasmon absorption band with no definite maximum . one possible explanation for the change of size and shape of the gold particles induced by the removal of acetone is the following . in colloid 1 the amount of acetone is in great excess . it strongly solvates the gold particles and the attachment of dodecanethiol molecules on the particles &# 39 ; surface is suppressed . as acetone is removed from the system , the ability for thiol adsorption is increased . thus acetone acts as a preliminary stabilizing agent , which is substituted by dodecanethiol molecules when acetone is evaporated . this ensures good dispersity of the thiol - ligated gold particles in the toluene medium . the fact that most of the particles in the au - colloid after evaporation of acetone have size in the region of 1 to 5 nm suggests that some ripening has already taken place , presumably due to the strong adsorption of dodecanethiol molecules on their surface . at this stage the colloid is ready for digestive ripening . c ) digestive ripening of colloid 2 and organization of the gold particles . heating of colloid 2 under reflux results in a dramatic narrowing of the particle size - distribution . tem studies ( fig5 a and 5b ) of a hot colloidal solution show formation of spherically shaped particles with sizes of about 4 nm . they have a tendency to organize into 2d - layers . some of the particles from the hot colloid organize in nice 3d - structures . the remarkable effect of the digestive ripening procedure is the great improvement of the size - distribution . practically polydisperse colloid containing particles with sizes ranging from 1 to 40 nm are transformed into an almost monodispersed colloid with particles &# 39 ; sizes of about 4 - 4 . 5 nm . a photograph taken at higher magnification ( fig6 ) reveals that the shape of the particles is more polyhedral rather than spherical . the average size diameter is 4 . 5 nm and the size - distribution is log - normal as typical for colloidal systems . the uv / vis absorption spectrum of the colloid after cooling to room temperature ( fig4 ) shows an appearance of a definite plasmon absorption maximum at 513 nm , which is in agreement with the size and monodispersity of the obtained particles . the tem micrographs of colloids cooled down for a different amount of time are shown in fig7 a - 7 d . the amazing result is that the particles predominantly organize on the tem grid in large 3d - structures in only about 15 min after the digestive ripening process is finished ( fig7 a ). a small number of areas of 2d - arrangement is also observed . even larger 3d - structures (& gt ; 3 μm ) are observed after 1 day ( fig7 b and 7c ) and after ˜ 2 months ( fig7 d ). the results suggest that the activation energy for 2d - organization is lower compared to this of 3d - organization . | US-97783801-A |
disclosed are ceramic compositions which are useful in the formulation and fabrication of microwave susceptors for disposable packages for the microwave heating of food items . the compositions include a novel microwave absorbing material and a binder . the novel microwave absorbing materials comprise ceramics with neutral lattice charges such as clays , kaolin , talc , silicates , alumina , aluminosilicates and mixtures thereof . the compositions provide good heat generation and a predeterminable upper temperature limit . the materials are common and inexpensive . preferred compositions additionally include a temperature profile moderator which can be common salt . | in its composition aspect , the present invention relates to ceramic compositions useful for fabrication into heating susceptors for disposable packages for the microwave heating of food products . the compositions comprise a defined microwave absorbing material and a binder . in its article aspect , the present invention resides in microwave heating susceptor for packaged food items , to packages for such items and to the packaged food items themselves . the microwave absorbing materials useful herein surprisingly include a wide variety of ceramic materials previously regarded as microwave transparent or used in ceramic compositions transparent to microwaves . by ceramic materials are meant materials comprising oxygen attached to non - carbonaceous elements , and primarily to magnesium , sodium , calcium , iron , aluminum , silicon and mixtures thereof . in the ceramic industry , a distinction is made between &# 34 ; greenware ,&# 34 ; a ceramic composition before firing or vitrification , and the finished , fired or vitrified ceramic compositions prepared therefrom . the firing step profoundly changes a large number of the ceramic composition &# 39 ; s properties as the individual constituents are fused into a homogeneous mass . broadly speaking , the present invention is directed toward compositions which would be considered greenware in the ceramic arts . certain of the present microwave active materials have been used in greenware ceramic compositions , but generally at marketedly different concentrations and for different purposes than in the present invention . for example , kaolin reduces plasticity and tends to make the greenware mix short or lean . likewise , alumina has a similar effect on the plasticity and will reduce green strength . also , sodium metasilicate is not used at levels greater than 1 % since greater amounts cause sticking and hinder mold release properties as well as decrease green strength . the present ceramic microwave absorbing materials and their other general properties are well known and described generally , for example , in &# 34 ; an introduction to the rock forming materials ,&# 34 ; by deer , howie , and zussman , longman group ltd ., essex , england , 1966 or in &# 34 ; the potter &# 39 ; s dictionary of materials and techniques &# 34 ; by frank and janet hamer , watson - guptill publications ( 1986 ) and which is incorporated herein by reference . materials as therein described are generally and conventionally classified as ortho and ring silicates , chain silicates , sheet silicates , framework silicates and non - silicates . however , the materials useful herein can fall into any of these classifications although not all materials in those classifications are useful herein . as indicated above , the microwave absorbing materials useful herein surprisingly include a wide variety of ceramic materials previously regarded as microwave transparent . it is speculated herein that these materials have heretofore been unappreciated as being useful as consumer microwave absorbing materials since most investigations of their electromagnetic interactions , i . e ., absorption / transparency has been done at very different frequencies or have been investigated as fired ceramics . the present materials are further essentially characterized by a neutral lattice charge . &# 34 ; neutral lattice charge &# 34 ; is used herein in its conventional usage and means that the net relative electron surface charge densities of the material is essentially zero or that the cation exchange capability is essentially zero for the constituent chemical make - up of the ceramic material . the present ceramic materials are further characterized by relatively low electrical resistivity , i . e ., about 0 . 1 to 35 ohm . cm and are thus classifiable as semiconductors in the broad sense of the term . talc , mg 6 [ si 8 o 20 ]( oh ) 4 ; kaolin , al 4 . [ si 4 o 10 ]( oh ) 8 . 4h 2 o ; of course , mixtures of these materials can also be used . preferred materials include sodium aluminum silicate , clay , sodium metasilicate and kaolin and mixtures thereof due to the relatively flat or uniformity of their final heating temperature . the present compositions include an effective amount of the above described microwave absorbing materials . the precise level will depend on a variety of factors including end use application , desired final temperature , and thickness of the susceptor to be fabricated from the present compositions . good results are generally obtained when the microwave absorbing material comprises from about 0 . 1 % to about 98 % by weight of the present ceramic compositions . preferred compounds include from about 20 % to 98 % by weight of the microwave absorbing material . for best results , the ceramic compositions comprise about 40 % to 98 % by weight of the microwave absorbing materials . the particle size of the microwave absorption material or refactory is not critical . however , finely ground materials are preferred inasmuch as the ceramic susceptors produced therefrom are smooth and uniform in texture . another essential component of the present ceramic compositions is a conventional ceramic binder . by the term &# 34 ; ceramic binder &# 34 ; is meant that the binder is capable of binding the present ceramic heating materials into a solid mass . the term is not meant to imply or require that the binder material itself is necessarily ceramic in composition although it well may be . such ceramic binders are well known in the ceramic art and the skilled artisan will have no problem selecting suitable binder materials for use herein . the function of the binder is to form the particulate microwave absorbing material into a solid form or mass . exemplary materials include both ceramic and plastic binders , respectively , such as cement , plaster of paris , i . e ., calcium sulphate , silica fiber , feldspar , pulverized kelvar ® ( a polyamide fiber ), colloidal silicas , fumed silicas , fiberglass , wood pulp , cotton fibers , and mixtures thereof . the binder can comprise from about 2 % to 99 . 9 % by weight of the present ceramic compounds , preferably from about 20 % to 80 %. exemplary , conventional plastic based binders , both thermoplastic and thermosetting , are described in u . s . pat . no . 4 , 003 , 840 ( issued jan . 18 , 1977 to ishino et al .) which is incorporated herein by reference . in one preferred embodiment , the present compositions include binders which are organic thermoplastic resins especially those approved as food packaging material such as polyvinyl chloride , polyethylene , polyamides , polyesters , polycarbonates , polyimides , epoxies , etc . in these embodiments , the thermoplastic resin binders can range from as little as 20 % up to 60 % of the composition and preferably about 30 % to 50 %. such compositions are especially well suited for fabrication into shaped microwave susceptors , especially food trays , e . g ., for tv dinners or entrees . in one highly preferred embodiment , the present ceramic compositions additionally desirably comprise common salt or sodium chloride as a temperature profile modulator . the temperature profile modulator can assist in reaching more quickly the final operating temperature of the ceramic composition . also , the salt increases modestly the final operating temperature of the ceramic composition . the preferred ceramic compositions comprise from about 0 . 1 % to about 6 % by weight salt . while ceramic compositions can be formulated having higher amounts of salt , no advantage is derived therefrom . the present ceramic compositions can be fabricated into useful microwave heating susceptor articles by a simple admixture of the materials into a homogeneous blend , and addition of sufficient amounts of water if needed to hydrate the binder . when plaster of paris is used as the binder , typically , water will be added in a weight ratio to binder ranging from about 0 . 4 to 0 . 7 : 1 . while the wet mixture is still soft , the ceramic compositions can be fabricated into desirable shapes , sizes and thicknesses and thereafter allowed to harden or dry to a moisture content ranging from about 2 . 5 % to 10 %. of course , one advantage of the present invention is that upon heating in a conventional microwave oven , e . g ., 2450 mhz , the ceramic compositions will relatively quickly ( e . g ., within 30 to 300 seconds ) heat to a final temperature ranging from about 300 ° to 600 ° f . which temperature range is very desirable in providing crisping , and browning to foods adjacent thereto and consistent with safe operation of the microwave oven . another advantage of the present ceramic compositions is that they can be dried at temperatures above 180 ° f . still another advantage of the present invention is that susceptors fabricated from the present ceramic compositions provide a microwave field modulating effect , i . e ., evening out peaks and nodes , i . e ., standing wave points and , it is believed independent of wattage . this benefit is especially useful when sensitive foods such as cookie doughs are being microwave heated . still another advantage of the present ceramic compositions is that they are believed to be useful not only with microwave ovens operating at 2450 mhz but at all microwave frequencies , i . e ., above as low as 300 mhz . another advantage of the present invention is that the ceramic compositions can absorb oil and / or moisture from food items to be microwave heated , e . g ., par - fried fish portions , without substantial adverse affect on heating performance . it is important that the susceptors fabricated herein be unvitrified , i . e ., not subjected to a conventional firing operation generally above 800 ° f . to 1000 ° f . ( 426 ° c . to 538 ° c .). conventional firing can result in a fused ceramic composition substantially transparent to microwave and thus devoid of the desirable microwave reactive properties of the present invention . the present ceramic compositions are useful in any number of microwave absorption applications . the present ceramic compositions are particularly useful for fabrication into microwave susceptors which in turn are useful as components in packages for foods to be heated with microwaves . for example , fig1 illustrates generally a packaged food item 10 fabricated in accordance with the teachings of the present invention and suitable for microwave heating . fig2 shows that the article 10 can optionally comprise a six - sided outerwrap 12 which can be plastic , paper or other conventional packaging material such as the paperboard package depicted . the article can further comprise an inner assembly 14 disposed within the outerwrap 12 which can comprise a sleeve 16 fabricated from a dielectric material ( e . g ., cardboard , paper , polyester ) and disposed therein a tray 18 . in conventional use , the consumer will open the article 12 , remove and discard the overwrap 12 , and insert the entire assembly into the microwave oven . the sleeve 16 is helpful although not esssential not only to prevent splattering in the microwave oven , but also to assist in securing the food items against excessive movement during distribution . in fig2 it can be seen that the sleeve 16 can comprise an opposed pair of open ends , 20 and 22 , an upper major surface or top wall 24 , a lower major surface or bottom wall 26 and an opposed pair of minor side or wall surfaces 28 and 30 . as can be seen in fig3 the tray 18 holds or contains one or more food items 32 . fig4 shows the tray 18 with the food items 32 removed . disposed within the tray 18 is one or more microwave heating susceptors such as microwave susceptor heating panel 34 . in this preferred embodiment , the susceptors are generally flat or planar and range in thickness from 0 . 020 to 0 . 250 inch . still referring to fig3 and 4 , with the cooking of certain foods , it may be desirable to heat the food items 32 from only or primarily one side by use of the heating susceptor panel 34 while at the same time minimizing the heating of the food item 32 by exposing it to microwave radiation through the walls of the package assembly 14 . to allow microwave radiation to reach the susceptor 34 , the bottom wall 26 is microwave transparent at least to the extent that sufficient microwave energy can enter the package to heat the susceptor 34 . side walls 28 and 30 can each optionally be shielded with shielding 29 as can top wall 24 thereby restricting the entry of microwave radiation through these walls to the food product as is known in the art . the shielding 29 can be of any suitable type material of which aluminum foil is a currently preferred material . with the use of shielding , the microwave radiation penetrates the microwave transparent bottom 26 only . accordingly , cooking of the food product 32 in this embodiment is accomplished substantially totally by the heat transferred to the food product 32 from the susceptor 34 although some microwave entry through the open ends 20 and 22 occurs . it is pointed out that the terms microwave transparent and microwave shield are relative terms as used herein and in the appended claims . in fig5 it can be seen that the heating panel 34 can optionally comprise a thin finish layer 36 , e . g ., 0 . 00005 to 0 . 001 inch ( 0 . 001 to 0 . 025 mm ) to impart desirable surface properties , e . g ., color , water repellency , smooth appearance , stick free , etc . in the simplest form , such a layer can comprise ordinary paraffin or a sodium silicate polymerized with zinc oxide . the finish layer does not substantially adversely affect the performance of the microwave susceptor . such surface property modification finds particular usefulness when the microwave susceptors are used in medical settings . for example , it is known to fabricate surgical implants , e . g .. discs , cylinders , from ferrites which absorb microwave radiation to thermally treat tumors . in such applications wherein the present compositions are employed , water repellency may be particularly desirable . other types of packages can be utilized with the ceramic microwave heater compositions of the present invention . it is an important advantage that the present compositions can be fabricated into susceptors of different configurations whether regular , e . g ., corrugated , or irregular . another embodiment is depicted in fig6 . thermoplastic resins are preferred for use as the binder materials . in this embodiment , the article 10 in addition to outerwrap 12 as shown in fig2 can comprise a microwave heating susceptor 40 fabricated into trays or shallow pans whether square , rectangular , circular , oval , etc . which serve both to contain and heat the food items . such tray shaped susceptors 40 find particular suitability for use in connection with a batter type food item 44 , especially cake batters or with casseroles , baked beans , scalloped potatoes , etc . in one particular embodiment the tray 40 can additionally include a cover 42 also fabricated from the present ceramic compositions . trays 40 with covers 42 are especially useful for batter food items like brownies in which it is desired to form an upper or top skin to the food item 44 . in still another embodiment shown in fig5 a , the panel susceptor 34 can additionally comprise a backing layer ( s ), especially a metal foil , e . g ., aluminum 46 . the foil serves to reflect back to the susceptor 34 microwave energy passing through the susceptor 34 . the incorporation of a microwave shielding or reflecting layer 29 in close proximity on the opposite surface of the ceramic susceptor 34 also serves to act as a susceptor temperature booster to elevate the operating temperature substantially above the temperature obtained without a microwave shielding or reflective layer 29 . final temperature reached can be as high as 100 ° f . or more over similar structures without the metal foil . also , the use of the temperature booster can reduce the need for a thicker ceramic susceptor to obtain the same temperature thereby reducing both production costs as well as final weights of the microwave package . since the ceramic compositions adhere to the metal foil with some difficulty and cause an in heating interference due to conductor - wave phenomena interaction , it is preferable to treat the surface of the metal foil with an intermediate or primer layer ( not shown ) for better adherency , i . e ., ordinary primer paints , or to have an intermediate silicone layer , paper layer or other polymer layer , or to select those binders for the ceramic compositions with increased capacity to adhere to metal foils . the skilled artisan will also appreciate that the present compositions absorb microwave radiation at a wide range of frequencies and not merely at those licensed frequencies for consumer microwave ovens . the ceramic susceptor compounds of the present invention can also be utilized in non - disposable utensils adapted for a limited number of repetitive heating cycles by embedding the heating compositions or otherwise associating with a non - disposable utensil body . the susceptor is associated with the remainder of the utensil in a manner such that it will be in heat transfer relation to a product to be heated in or on the utensil . the utensil can be in the form of an open top dish , griddle or the like . however , the present compositions will exhaust their ability to heat upon microwave exposure relatively quickly , i . e ., after only a few cycles of operation . without further elaboration , it is believed that one skilled in the art can , using the preceding description utilize the present invention to its fullest extent . the following preferred specific embodiments are , therefore , to be construed as merely illustrative and not limitative of the remainder of the disclosure whatsoever . it will be appreciated that other modifications of the present invention , within the skill of those in the food arts , can be undertaken without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention . sodium metasilicate pentahydrate ( 100 grams ) was mixed with 25 grams deionized distilled water , cast into a mat 5 / 32 inch ( 0 . 160 inch ) thick and air dried overnight at 85 ° f . ( 29 . 4 ° c .). during drying the tile exhibited no shrinkage or breaking . cast tile weight 3 . 5 &# 34 ;× 3 . 5 &# 34 ;× 5 / 32 &# 34 ; was 31 . 21 grams , density 0 . 992 g cm - 3 . the tile subjected to a 750 watt , 2460 mhz microwave field for a period of five minutes while the temperature of the tile surface was monitored using a luxtron 750 ® fluoroptic temperature monitor equipped with ceramic clad fiber optic temperature probes and interfaced with an ibm pc / at computer for data collection and handling . the recorded temperature profile of the tile is shown in fig8 as line 1 . sodium metasilicate pentahydrate was mixed with sufficient distilled water to form a cohesive mass ( 10 % moisture ). the mixture was compressed into a disc 2 . 969 inches ( 7 . 540 cm ) diameter and 0 . 160 inch thick . the disc weight was 22 . 44 grams , density 1 . 236 g cm - 3 . after air drying overnight at 85 ° f . ( 29 . 4 ° c .) the temperature profile was determined as described above in example 1 . the temperature profile of the tile is not shown but is very similar to line 1 in fig8 . the dielectric constant at 20 ° c . and 1000 mhz is 11 . 3 with a dissipation factor d or loss tangent &# 34 ; tan δ &# 34 ; of 0 . 227 . 100 grams of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate was mixed with 30 grams of calcium sulfate hemihydrate and after blending to a uniform mix 30 grams of distilled water was added . the resulting mix was stiff and displayed a positive heat of reaction ( exothermic ). the mass was cast into tiles 3 . 5 &# 34 ;× 3 . 5 &# 34 ;× 0 . 175 inches and air dried at 85 ° f . ( 29 . 4 ° c .) for 24 hours . the cast tile weight was 42 . 58 grams , density 1 . 212 g cm - 3 . the tile did not display cracking or mold shrinkage . the tile was treated as described in example 1 with the recorded temperature profile shown as line 2 in fig8 . weight loss upon heating was 29 . 76 %. to the dry mix prepared in example 2 was added 11 . 0 grams distilled water so as to form a cohesive mass upon compression . the mixture was then compressed into a disc 3 . 00 inches ( 7 . 620 cm ) diameter and 0 . 130 inch thick . the disc weight was 19 . 98 grams , density 1 . 327 g cm - 3 . after air drying at 85 ° f . ( 29 . 4 ° c .) for 24 hours , the temperature profiles of the tile in a 2460 mhz microwave field was determined as described in example 1 . the temperature profile of the tile is similar to that shown as line 2 in fig8 . the dielectric constant at 20 ° c . at 1000 mhz is 12 . 1 with a loss tangent &# 34 ; tan δ &# 34 ; of 0 . 125 . weight loss upon heating was 19 . 9 %. 100 grams of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate was mixed with 30 grams of calcium sulfate hemihydrate , 40 grams of hawthorn bonding fireclay and 40 grams of a . p . green fireclay . after blending to a uniform mix 210 grams of distilled water was added . the resulting mix was plastic and easily workable . the mass was cast into tiles 3 . 5 &# 34 ;× 3 . 5 &# 34 ;× 0 . 125 inches and air dried at 85 ° f . ( 29 . 4 ° hours . the cast tile weight was 31 . 61 grams , density 1 . 259 g cm - 3 . the tile did not display cracking or mold shrinkage . the heating structure was treated as described in example 1 with the recorded temperature profile shown as line 2b in fig9 . to 69 grams of dry mix as prepared in example 2b was added 15 . 0 grams of distilled water . the resulting damp mix was compressed into a disc 3 . 00 inches ( 7 . 620 cm ) diameter and 0 . 135 inches thick . the disc weight was 24 . 0 grams , density 1 . 530 gm cm - 3 . after drying in warm air at 85 ° f . ( 29 . 4 ° c .) for 24 hours , the temperature profile of the heater tile was determined as previously outlined . the temperature profile of the tile is shown as line 2c in fig9 . 100 grams of calcined activated high alumina x - 5111 ( englehard corporation , edison , n . j . 08818 ) was dry blended with 40 grams of magnesium silicate ( ceramitalc hdt , r . t . vanderbilt company , inc ., norwalk , conn . 06855 ). 65 grams of distilled water was added and a slurry prepared . the slurry was cast into 31 / 2 inch square tile frames 0 . 125 inches thick and allowed to dry at 120 ° f . ( 48 . 9 ° c .) for 12 hours . the resulting tile was cracked but exhibited minimal mold shrinkage . the tile was measured for heating performance in a microwave field as previously detailed . the temperature profile of the heating structure is shown in fig8 as line 3c . weight loss upon heating was 3 . 2 %. a second dry mix was prepared as detailed above with 20 grams of distilled water . the resulting mix was compressed into a 3 . 00 inch ( 7 . 620 cm ) disc , 0 . 125 inches thick with a density of 1 . 920 g cm - 3 . evaluation for heating performance was made after drying at 120 ° f . ( 48 . 9 ° c .) for 24 hours . the heating profile is shown in fig8 as line 3p . weight loss upon heating was 3 . 3 %. the dielectric constant at 20 ° c . and 1000 mhz is 11 . 7 with a loss tangent &# 34 ; tan δ &# 34 ; of 0 . 172 . 75 grams of calcined activated high alumina x - 5111 ( englehard corporation ) was dry blended with 75 grams of air floated kaolin # 6 tile ( georgia kaolin company , inc ., union , n . j . 07083 ) and 13 grams of q - fiber amorphous high purity silica fiber ( johns - manville , denver , colo . 80217 ). 84 grams of distilled water was added and a paste prepared . the paste was cast into 3 . 5 inch square × 0 . 125 inch tiles and dried at 200 ° f . ( 93 . 3 ° c .) for 1 hour . the resulting tile was intact and displayed a 13 . 8 % shrinkage . tile weight was 25 . 99 grams , density 1 . 201 g cm - 3 . the microwave performance of the heater tile is shown in fig1 as line 4c . weight loss upon heating was 2 . 3 %. a second dry mix was prepared as detailed above with 24 grams distilled water . the resulting mix was compressed into a 3 . 00 inch ( 7 . 620 cm ) disc , 0 . 125 inches thick , density 1 . 833 g cm - 3 . evaluation for heating performance was made after drying at 200 ° f . ( 93 . 3 ° c ) for 5 hours . the heating performance is shown in fig1 as line 4p . weight loss upon heating was 1 . 5 %. the measured dielectric constant at 20 ° c ., and 1000 mhz is 11 . 1 with a loss tangent &# 34 ; tan δ &# 34 ; of 0 . 147 . 5 . 0 grams of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate , 30 . 0 grams calcium sulfate hemihydrate , 10 . 0 grams of calcined activated high alumina x - 5111 ( englehard corporation ), 35 . 0 grams kentucky clay # 6 ( kentucky - tennessee clay company , mayfield , ky . ), 50 . 0 grams hexafil -- a semi - reinforcing clay ( hammill and gillespie , inc . livingston , n . j .) and 7 . 5 grams of goldart -- cedar heights air floated secondary clay ( minnesota clay , bloomington , minn .) were dry blended together to a uniform consistency . 62 grams of distilled water was added to the dry powder mix and a paste formed upon mixing . the paste was cast into 3 . 5 inch square by 0 . 125 inch thick tiles and dried for 8 hours at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .). the resulting tiles were intact and displayed a 23 . 4 % shrinkage upon drying . the tile weight was 27 . 58 grams , density 1 . 435 g cm - 3 . the microwave performance of the heater tile is shown in fig1 as line 5c . a second dry mix was prepared as detailed above with 25 . 8 grams of distilled water added to the mix . the resulting mix was compressed into a 3 . 00 inch ( 7 . 620 cm ) disc , 0 . 125 inches thick , density 1 . 554 g cm - 3 . evaluation for heating performance in a microwave field was made after drying at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .) for 8 hours . the measured heating profile is shown in fig1 as line 5p . a formulation similar to the one prepared in example 5 was prepared with the following modifications . 15 grams of calcined activated alumina x - 5111 ( englehard corporation ), 30 grams of kentucky clay # 6 ( kentucky - tennessee clay company , mayfield , ky .) and 7 . 5 grams of yellow banks # 401 air floated clay ( minnesota clay , bloomington , minn .) were dry blended with the other ingredients . 65 grams of distilled water was added to the dry powder mix and a paste formed upon mixing . the paste was cast into 3 . 5 inch square by 0 . 125 inch thick tiles and air dried for 8 hours at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .). the resulting tiles were intact and exhibited a 21 . 9 % shrinkage upon drying . the tile weight was 27 . 21 grams , density 1 . 388 g cm - 3 . the microwave performances of the heater tile is shown in fig1 as line 5 - 1 . a second dry mix was prepared as detailed above with 25 . 8 grams of distilled water added to the mix . the resulting mix was compressed into a 3 . 00 inch ( 7 . 620 cm ) disc , 0 . 125 inches thick , density 1 . 498 g cm - 3 . evaluation for heating performances in a microwave was made after drying for 8 hours at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .). the measured heating profile is shown in fig1 as line 5 - 2 . 5 . 0 grams of sodium metasilicate , 30 grams calcium sulfate hemihydrate , 15 grams of calcined activated high alumina x - 5111 ( englehard corporation ), 80 grams of tennessee clay # 6 ( kentucky - tennessee clay company , mayfield , ky .) and 7 . 5 grams of hawthorn bonding fireclay ( minnesota clay , bloomington , minn .) were dry blended together to a uniform consistency . 70 grams of distilled water was added to the dry powder and a paste formed upon mixing . the paste was cast into 3 . 5 inch square by 0 . 125 inch thick tiles and dried for 8 hours at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c . ), the resulting tiles were intact and displayed a 7 . 0 % shrinkage upon drying . the tile weight was 28 . 34 grams , density 1 . 215 g cm - 3 . the microwave performance of the heater tiles is shown in fig1 as line 6c . a second dry mix was prepared as detailed above with 26 . 0 grams of distilled water . the resulting damp mix was compressed into a 3 . 0 inch ( 7 . 620 cm ) disc , 0 . 110 inches thick , density 1 . 694 g cm - 3 . evaluation for heating performance in a microwave field was made after drying at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .) for 8 hours . the measured heating profile is shown in fig1 as line 6p . as discernible from the shown profiles , a pressed embodiment in this example is preferable to the cast embodiment due to the plateauing profile shape observed . 50 grams of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate , 30 grams of calcium sulfate hemihydrate , 10 grams of hawthorn bonding fireclay and 50 grams of sodium aluminum silicate were dry blended together to a uniform consistency . 70 grams of the dry mix was added with stirring to 35 grams of distilled water . the resulting paste was cast into a 3 . 5 inch square by 0 . 125 inch thick tile and dried for 8 hours at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .). the tile exhibited no shrinking or cracking upon drying . the microwave performance of the heater tile is shown in fig1 as line 7c . to the remaining 70 grams of dry mix as prepared above , 13 grams of distilled water was added . the damp mix was compressed into a 3 . 0 inch ( 7 . 620 cm ) disc , 0 . 110 inches thick , density 1 . 726 g cm - 3 . evaluation for microwave heating performance was made after drying at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .) for 8 hours . the measured heating profile is shown in fig2 as line 7p . 50 grams of tennessee # 6 clay , 50 grams of hawthorn bonding fireclay , 20 grams of calcined activated high alumina x - 5111 and 25 grams of sodium aluminum silicate were dry blended to a uniform consistency . to 70 grams of the dry mix was added 35 grams of distilled water , after mixing the resultant paste was formed into 3 . 5 inch square by 0 . 125 inch thick tiles and dried for 2 hours at 150 ° f . ( 65 . 6 ° c .). the tile displayed no shrinking or cracking after drying . tile weight was 27 . 78 grams , density 1 . 107 g cm - 3 . the microwave heating performance of the tile is shown in fig9 as line 8c . to the remaining 75 grams of dry mix prepared above was added 15 grams of distilled water with mixing . the damp mix was then compressed into discs 3 . 00 inches ( 7 . 620 cm ) diameter and 0 . 110 inches thick , density 1 . 723 g cm - 3 . the discs were dried as described above and evaluated for microwave heating performance in the usual manner . the heating curve is shown in fig1 as line 8p . ______________________________________ amount ( grams ) component 9 10 11 12 13______________________________________sodium metasilicate 5tennessee clay # 6 10 30 10hexafil 10x - 5111 calcined bauxite 10 15 15hawthorn bonding fireclay 20 10 15 30 25a . p . green fireclay 20 10 10goldart - cedar heights clay 20 10 15 20 20yellow banks 401 20 10 5 10old hickory ball clay 10 5 5redart cedar heights clay 20 5nytal ® talc 10 25georgia kaolin # 6 tile clay 20 10 50 25cornwall stone 10gerstley borate 20 10 5sodium aluminum silicate 20 10 15feldspar 20 5kelvar ® fiber ( pulverized ) 10______________________________________ seventy grams of the above mixtures were each separately mixed with 35 g deionized distilled water , individually cast or pressed into a mat 0 . 160 inch thick and air dried overnight at 85 ° f . ( 29 . 4 ° c .). the heat profiles are shown in fig1 - 15 with &# 34 ; c &# 34 ; indicating cast and &# 34 ; p &# 34 ; indicating pressed . | US-27660988-A |
a vertical dram and fabrication method thereof . the vertical dram has a plurality of memory cells on a substrate , and each of the memory cells has a trench capacitor , a vertical transistor , and a source - isolation oxide layer in a deep trench . the main advantage of the present invention is to form an annular source diffusion and an annular drain diffusion of the vertical transistor around the sidewall of the deep trench . as a result , when a gate of the transistor is turned on , an annular gate channel is provided . the width of the gate channel of the present invention is therefore increased . | please refer to fig1 . fig1 is a schematic diagram of a vertical dram 100 according to a preferable embodiment of the present invention vertical dram . the vertical dram 100 comprises a substrate 110 with a plurality of deep trenches 120 , a trench capacitor 166 formed in an lower trench portion 162 of the deep trench 120 , a vertical transistor 168 formed in an upper trench portion 160 of the deep trench 120 , and a source - isolation oxide layer 130 between the vertical transistor 168 and the trench capacitor 166 for isolating the vertical transistor 168 and the trench capacitor 166 . the substrate 110 further comprises a p - type well 112 . the deep trench 120 locates from the surface of the substrate 110 through the p - type well 112 and extends downward . each of the memory cells of the vertical dram 100 locates in a deep trench 120 . the drain and gate of the vertical transistor of each memory are electrically connected to a bit line and a word line ( not shown ) arranged on the substrate to form the memory matrix . for illustrating the present invention , fig1 only shows one deep trench 120 . the deep trench 120 has an upper trench portion 160 and a lower trench portion 162 approximately separated by the source - isolation oxide layer 130 . the deep trench 120 also has a trench sidewall 164 . in addition , the substrate 110 further comprises a sti 146 located surrounding the deep trench 120 for isolating the memory cell in the deep trench 120 . as shown in fig1 , sti 146 does not overlap the deep trench 120 . the trench capacitor 166 comprises a capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′ covering the surface of the trench sidewall 164 of the lower trench portion 162 , a storage node 124 ′ filling the lower trench portion 162 , a buried plate 114 located in the substrate 110 surrounding the lower trench portion 162 , and a buried strap 126 ′ located above the capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′ and electrically connected to the storage node 124 ′ and the annular source 128 , wherein the capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′ isolates the storage node 124 ′ and the buried plate 114 . the source - isolation oxide layer 130 is located above the storage node 124 ′, the buried strap 126 ′, and the capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′. and the source - isolation oxide layer 130 separates the trench capacitor 166 from the elements in the upper trench portion 160 . the vertical transistor 168 comprises an annular source 128 located in the substrate 110 next to the source - isolation oxide layer 130 and circularly encompassing the deep trench 120 , a gate conductive layer 134 filling the upper trench portion 160 , a cylindrical gate dielectric layer 132 circularly encompassing the gate conductive layer 134 , and an annular drain 148 . the annular source 128 is electrically connected to the buried strap 126 ′. in this embodiment , the annular source 128 is an ion diffusion area . the gate conductive layer 134 is electrically connected to a polysilicon conductive layer 144 . the polysilicon conductive layer 144 is surrounded by the spacers 142 , 150 formed by silicon nitride , a passivation layer 152 , and a liner oxide layer 138 formed by silicon oxide for isolating the polysilicon conductive layer 144 . as shown in fig1 , the polysilicon conductive layer 144 is electrically connected to a contact plug 156 ′ for controlling the vertical transistor 168 . the annular drain 136 is a heavily doped ion implantation area located in the substrate 110 near the liner oxide layer 138 and circularly encompasses the trench sidewall 164 . the annular drain 136 is electrically connected to a contact plug 156 for transferring bit line signals . the present invention vertical dram 100 further comprises a passivation layer 152 for protecting the elements in the substrate 110 , an inter layer dielectric ( ild ) layer 154 covering the substrate 110 , contact plugs 156 and 156 ′ set in the ild layer 154 respectively electrically connected to the annular drain 148 and the polysilicon conductive layer 144 , and a plurality of metal lines 158 electrically connected to the contact plugs 156 , 156 ′ for serving as a word line and a bit line or being electrically connected to other elements of the dram 100 . please refer to fig2 to fig1 . fig2 to fig1 are schematic diagrams of the fabrication method of the vertical dram 100 shown in fig1 according to the present invention . at first , a first ion implanting process is performed to form the p - type well 112 in the substrate 110 . and a second ion implanting process is performed to form a buried plate 114 in the p - type well . a pad oxide layer 116 and a pad nitride layer 118 are then sequentially formed on the surface of the substrate 110 . after that , a photolithography - etching process ( pep ) is performed to form the deep trench 120 in the substrate 110 . please refer to fig3 , a chemical vapor deposition ( cvd ) process is performed to deposit a first dielectric layer 122 on the surface of the substrate 110 and the deep trench 120 , and then a first doped polysilicon layer 124 is formed on the first dielectric layer 122 . referring to fig4 , a recess etching ( re ) process is performed to remove a portion of the first doped polysilicon layer 124 and the first dielectric layer 122 to form a capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′ in the lower trench portion 162 of the deep trench 120 and a storage node 124 ′ encompassed by the capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′. in another embodiment of the present invention , the capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′ may be an oxide - nitride ( on ) dielectric layer or other materials with a high dielectric constant . please refer to fig5 . an arsenic doped polysilicon ( as - doped poly ) layer ( not shown ) is deposed on the sidewall of the deep trench 120 . then , a portion of the as - doped poly layer is removed to leave the as - doped poly layer 126 on the capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′ and the storage node 124 ′. it can be done by depositing a photoresist layer after the as - doped poly layer is formed , performing an etching - back process to remove a portion of the photoresist layer so that the remaining photoresist layer has a predetermined thickness , performing a wet etching process to the as - doped poly layer , and removing the remaining photoresist layer . then , a heat diffusion process is performed to diffuse the arsenic ions of the as - doped poly layer 126 into the substrate 110 next to the as - doped poly layer 126 . therefore a first ion diffusion area , the annular source 128 , encompassing the deep trench 120 is formed . after that , the as - doped poly layer 126 on the storage node 124 ′ is removed , only a strap of the as - doped poly layer 126 above the capacitor dielectric layer 122 ′ on the trench sidewall 164 being left , which is the buried strap 126 ′, as shown in fig6 . please refer to fig6 . a source - isolation oxide layer 130 is formed in the deep trench 120 for isolating the annular source 128 and other conductive material in the deep trench 120 . the source - isolation oxide layer 130 can be formed by performing a cvd process to deposit an oxide layer in the deep trench 120 , forming a photoresist layer on the oxide layer , then , etching back the photoresist layer , performing a wet etching process and a dry etching process by using the remaining photoresist layer as a hard mask to remove a portion of the oxide layer , and removing the remaining photoresist layer . on the other hand , the source - isolation oxide layer 130 also can be formed by performing a high density plasma ( hdp ) process to deposit an oxide layer in the deep trench 120 and an isotropic etching process to etch back the oxide layer to form a source - isolation oxide layer 130 . after the source - isolation oxide layer 130 is formed , an oxidation process is performed to oxide the trench sidewall 164 above the source - isolation oxide layer 130 so as to form the cylindrical gate dielectric layer 132 . second doped polysilicon layer ( not shown ) is deposited on the substrate 110 . then , a cmp process and a re process are performed to remove a portion of the second doped polysilicon layer so that the surface of the second doped polysilicon layer is lower than the surface of the substrate 110 , and therefore the gate conductive layer 134 is formed . a wet etching process is then performed to remove a portion of the cylindrical gate dielectric layer 132 located above the gate conductive layer 134 so as to expose the top trench sidewall 164 near the surface of the substrate 110 . an as - doped poly layer ( not shown ) is formed , and a heat diffusion process is then performed to diffuse the arsenic ions of the as - doped poly layer into the exposed trench sidewall 164 and the substrate 110 . therefore a second ion diffusion area , the annular drain 136 , is formed . after that , the as - doped poly layer is removed . please refer to fig7 . a liner oxide layer 138 and a liner nitride layer 140 are sequentially deposited on the surface of the substrate 110 and the deep trench 120 . referring to fig8 , an - isotropic process is performed to remove a portion of the liner nitride layer 140 to expose a portion of the liner oxide layer 138 and form a spacer 142 on the sidewall of the liner oxide layer 138 and the upper portion of the deep trench 120 . an dry etching process is then performed to remove the liner oxide layer 138 not covered by the spacer 142 to expose the gate conductive layer 134 in the deep trench 120 . after that , a third doped polysilicon layer is filled into the deep trench 120 so as to form the polysilicon conductive layer 144 , wherein the exposed polysilicon conductive layer 144 is electrically connected to the gate conductive layer 134 . referring to fig9 , a sti 146 is formed in the substrate 110 near the deep trench 120 . it can be executed by performing a pep to form a shallow trench near the deep trench 120 , forming an isolation layer on the substrate 110 and filling the isolation layer in the shallow trench , and finally performing a cvp process by taking the pad nitride layer 118 as the stopping layer . then , the pad nitride layer 118 is removed . an ion implanting process is performed at the exposed pad oxide layer 116 so as to form a heavily doped ion implantation area at the second ion diffusion area , which overlaps the annular drain 136 . after that , a nitride layer ( not shown ) is formed . a sidewall etching process is then performed to remove the nitride layer and a portion of the sti 146 so as to form the spacer 150 on the sidewall of the liner oxide layer 138 and the sti 146 . please refer to fig1 . a nitride layer is formed on the surface of the substrate 110 for being a passivation layer 152 . an ild layer 154 is deposited on the substrate 110 with a material of silicon oxide or other dielectric materials . then , a pep is performed to form a plurality of contact holes in the ild layer 154 and the passivation layer 152 so as to expose a portion of the annular drain 136 and the polysilicon conductive layer 144 . a metal layer or a doped polysilicon layer is filled in the contact holes to form the contact plugs 156 , 156 ′. finally , according to the circuit design of the dram , other elements can be continuously fabricated on the surface of the substrate 110 . for example , the following processes may comprise depositing a metal layer 158 , performing a pep to remove a portion of the metal layer 158 , and electrically connecting the remaining metal layer 158 to the contact plugs 156 , 156 ′, wherein the metal layer 158 can be used as a bit line , a word line , or a conductive element for other dram elements . therefore the vertical dram 100 in fig1 is completed . in contrast to the prior art , the present invention vertical dram has a deep trench capacitor arranged in a staggered configuration with respect to the sti . therefore the vertical transistor has an annular channel for gaining a higher sufficient current . furthermore , the present invention vertical dram has asymmetric contact plug structure on the gate and annular drain . as shown in fig1 , the contact plug 156 is located across on the sti 146 and the annular drain 136 , and the contact plug 156 ′ is located at the right side on the gate conductive layer 144 . therefore it can be fabricated by a self - alignment process so as to increase the process window . those skilled in the art will readily observe that numerous modifications and alterations of the device may be made while retaining the teachings of the invention . accordingly , the above disclosure should be construed as limited only by the metes and bounds of the appended claims . | US-70739603-A |
a method and apparatus for operating a short - haul radio transmitting / radio receiving system conforming to a short - haul radio communication standard wherein a maximum number of devices able to communicate is exceeded . the devices exceeding the maximum number of devices communicating with a master device are switched to a park mode and , continually in keeping with a predefined strategy , parked devices are switched to active while active devices are switched to parked . | fig1 shows functional units of a “ protocol stack ” ( stack ) surfblue implementing the method according to an exemplary embodiment , with a “ protocol stack ” understood generally as being protocol software for adjacent , interdependent layers of the osi reference model that functionally belong together . the software generally serves to implement specific network architectures . the architecture of the surfblue stack shown in fig1 is preferably implemented in a host host accommodating a bluetooth module , and communicates with other layers ( application and transport layer ) or , as the case may be , with bt application , driver , and transport layer units assigned thereto , via an external interface 1 provided for the purpose . the surfblue stack has a plurality of protocols . one protocol specified according to the bluetooth standard ( core protocol ) is the “ logical link control and adaptation protocol ” l2cap which , for stackable protocols , enables connection - oriented and connectionless ( loopback ) connections for higher protocol layers . the logical link control and adaptation protocol l2cap has a connection to a “ telephony control protocol specification ” tcs via an internal interface 2 . the telephony control protocol specification tcs generally includes a bit - oriented protocol which implements ring control , connection setup , voice transmission , and data transmission ; as well as using at commands for cell phones and modems for controlling these or for a type of fax transmission . the logical link control and adaptation protocol l2cap is additionally connected via the internal interface 2 to a serial cable emulation protocol rfcomm defined according to etsi zs 07 . 10 and serving above the logical link control and adaptation protocol l2cap to emulate an rs232 connection , such as etsi ts 07 . 10 in the case of gsm , for example for direct controlling via at commands . via the internal interface 2 , the logical link control and adaptation protocol l2cap furthermore has a connection to a locating protocol ( service discovery protocol ) sdp which is responsible for locating the services offered by bluetooth devices within radio range and itself communicates via the internal interface 2 with the adaptation layer adaptation of the osi reference model . the logical link control and adaptation protocol l2cap furthermore also communicates with a host controller interface hci which is necessary when a bluetooth device is controlled via the host host . for this purpose , the host controller interface hci communicates with a plurality of the described protocols and layers such as , for instance , the adaptation layer , via the internal interface 2 , or the transport layer , via the external interface 1 . for implementing process management or , as the case may be , operating the surfblue stack , the surfblue stack has a few further modules such as , for instance , the security - management module , for implementing security - relevant processes that are connected therefor via the internal interface to at least the logical link control and adaptation protocol l2cap , the locating protocol sdp , and the host controller interface hci , the di - management module for implementing device interface management , and an rx / jtx - buffer management module for implementing receive / transmit buffer management . the protocol stack surfblue furthermore has a power - saving device power - save manager and a device manager device manager that is connected to at least the adaptation layer adaptation via its own adaptation layer power management interface 3 and the host controller interface via an hci host controller interface power management interface for implementing the ; process , shown in fig2 . with reference to fig2 , the following factors have been taken into account in order to simplify the presentation of the exemplary embodiment . in the example , the maximum possible number of active devices is set at 3 devices . the maximum number of devices that can be switched to the park mode is also set at 3 devices . the devices g 1 , g 2 , and g 3 send data . the device g 4 does not send any data . in the beginning , device g 3 is in the park mode . the letter a in the figure represents an active device . the letter p represents a parked device . the sequence of letters mux represents a device which , although it sends data , is switched to the parked mode and is waiting to be switched to the active mode again . the letter m represents the master device performing controlling . in the embodiment illustrated in fig2 , it is assumed that a possibility of switching a device to the active mode has been reserved . proceeding from the device g 3 , which wishes to send data and is in the parked mode , the device g 3 will be switched to the active condition . to accomplish this , one option is to switch the device g 1 to the parked condition at this point . the device g 1 will still continue to send data until the data memory is full . the device g 1 will then wait until it is switched to the active condition again . that will be the case when another connection has finished transferring data . when it has , the device g 1 will be switched to the active condition again . accordingly , the option will include switching the device g 2 to the parked condition at this point . the device g 2 will still continue to send data until the data memory is full . the device g 2 will then wait until it is switched to the active condition again . that will be the case when another connection has finished transferring data . when it has , the device g 2 will be switched to the active condition again . as a result , the device g 3 is switched to the parked condition at this point . the device g 3 will still continue to send data until the data memory is full . the device g 3 will then wait until it is switched to the active condition again . that will be the case when another connection has finished transferring data . when it has , the device g 3 will be switched to the active condition again . this requires , for example , switching the device g 1 to the parked condition again at this point , and the operation will resume at the point x 1 . it would also have been possible for the operation to resume at the point x 2 . it should be understood that the various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art . such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and without diminishing its intended advantages . it is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims . | US-26760908-A |
the present invention provides a method for finding a backup node for a node in a sensor network . firstly , determining a node which is in a state of waiting for being an agent node among a plurality of nodes adjacent to the node to be backed up for using the agent node to find the backup node . the states of waiting for being backed up is that the quantity of electricity of the node to be backed up drops below a preset value . according to the present invention , the node to be backed up does not need to communicate with a large number of nodes . it only needs to determine an agent node among the adjacent notes to do the substantial search for a backup node . | fig1 is a schematic block view of the components of a sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention . means 100 includes a communication means 110 , a sensor means 130 , a detecting means 150 , a determining means 160 , and a power supply ( not shown in the fig .). the power supply provides energy needed for the sensor to do its work . it is non - rechargeable or rechargeable . means 100 also includes a storing means 120 and a cpu 140 . means 100 can be a node of a sensor network , in which the functions of some means ( e . g . detecting means 150 and determining means 160 ) can be performed through software . as far as those skilled in the art , the means included in means 100 can be realized by a plurality of conventional means as long as their combination can perform the function of the present invention . sensor means 130 is used for inducing the surrounding environment . for example , a particular change in the surrounding environment will trigger a particular function of the sensor . the induced message can be transmitted through communicating means 110 for processing , and also can processed , to an extent , by cpu 140 , and then stored in the storing means 120 ; and , of course , it is also directly stored in the storing means 120 . communicating means 110 is used for transmitting environmental message induced by the sensor , such as message induced by sensor means 130 ; also for transmitting message stored in storing means 120 , which may be relayed from other sensors ; the a means is also used for receiving other message received from other sensors , such as an inquiry request . storing means 120 is used for storing message , which may be the environment message induced by the sensor means 130 or message which communicating means 110 receives from other sensors . detecting means 150 is used for detecting whether the sensor is in a state of waiting for being backed up , a state which can be pre - set by a sensor manufacturer or a sensor network system manufacturer . for example , storing means 120 of the sensor has been 80 % full , or the quantity of electricity of the sensor has dropped below a pre - set value . determining means 160 is used for determining , when the sensor is a state of waiting for being backed up , an agent node among a plurality of nodes adjacent to the node , so that the agent node seeks the backup node on behalf of the node to be backed up . cpu 140 is used for coordinating the work of the other components ( e . g . detecting means 150 and determining means 160 ) of the sensor according to the pre - stored commands of the sensor . of course , the cpu can also process some more complex data if necessary . fig2 is a schematic view of the system of a sensor network according to one embodiment of the present invention , and fig3 is a flow chart of communication of a sensor network according to one embodiment of the present invention . the sensor network comprises a plurality of sensors , including sensor 100 , in which nodes 1 - 9 can communicate ( one - hop ) with sensor 100 , while multi - hop communication is needed for the other nodes to communicate with sensor 100 . each sensor in the sensor network has one or more of the following functions : inducing , storing , transmitting , replaying , accepting request , event triggering , and data processing , etc . according to fig2 and 3 , when sensor 100 detects that it itself is a state of waiting for being backed up , say its quantity of electricity drops to a pre - set value ( th 1 , for example 25 % of its total electricity quantity storage capacity ), sensor 100 has found an agent node ( an ) among the nodes adjacent to it , it transmits to the agent node a request ( m 1 ), requesting it to communicate with the available nodes ( alan ) for finding a backup node ( bn ) for the sensor 100 . the adjacent nodes ( nn ) may include all nodes that can directly communicate ( i . e . one - hop ) with sensor 100 . to reduce communication performed for finding the agent node , the agent node may be one of the adjacent nodes that have performed one - hop communication most recently with the sensor 100 . of course , if sensors are relatively densely distributed within an area , the adjacent nodes may include one that can carry on multi - hop communication with the sensor 100 . request m 1 sent by the sensor 100 may be in the format as follows : the “ function ” in the message m 1 is used for indicating the functions of sensor 100 , e . g . temperature inducing , sound inducing and brightness inducing , storing function , etc ., and data processing function , etc . the “ capability ” in message m 1 is used for indicating the capabilities and states of the various levels of the functions of sensor 100 , e . g . the capability of inducing key data , the capability of inducing general data , the quantity of the various data stored in the storage , etc . the key data include those nodes which change relatively rapidly , and are more important to decision making . “ alan ” in message m 1 serves as a list of the available backup nodes . the available nodes list may include the nodes in the newest route table 230 of sensor 100 that can perform direct communication ( i . e . one - hop ), such as nodes 3 - 7 . of course , the available nodes list may also include the nodes in the new route table 220 ( route table 220 becomes route table 230 after it is updated ) of sensor 100 that can perform direct communication , such as nodes 1 - 5 . the available nodes list may also include nodes 8 and 9 , and sensor 100 receives message only from nodes 8 and 9 . in this embodiment , the “ alan ” includes nodes 1 - 9 . another alan creating method is that sensor 100 sends particular message to all nodes reachable by further communicating , requesting these nodes to reply to determine their availability . these nodes may include inactive nodes , existing as backup nodes . the backup nodes are activated by the particular message to participate in the following discussion organized by the agent node . the discussion mode may be any one of the existing modes . of course , if the sensors are relatively densely distributed within an area , the available nodes may also include those nodes which can perform multi - hop communication with sensor 100 . the process for determining the agent node as follows : firstly , the sensor 100 sends request m 1 to a node ( rn ) of the adjacent nodes ( nn ). secondly , the node rn estimates the quantity of electricity needed to perform the searching backup node according to the available nodes list within the request m 1 ( alan ). thirdly , if the quantity of electricity of node rn is larger than the sum quantity of electricity and a particular threshold value , the node rn sends a confirmation message m 2 to the sensor 100 to indicate that the node ( rn ) becomes an agent node ( an ), otherwise , the rn sends a re - selecting message m 3 to the sensor 100 for requesting sensor 100 to select another node among its adjacent nodes as its agent node . the sensor 100 can repeat the process until an agent node is found among adjacent nodes of the sensor 100 . in this embodiment , node 2 is selected as the agent node for the sensor 100 . the confirmation message m 2 sent by node rn may be in the format as follows . the re - selecting message m 3 sent by node rn may be in the format as follows . after node 2 is selected as an agent node of sensor 100 , a discussion is organized in all the available nodes according to the alan list for selecting a suitable backup node . the discussion mode may be any one of the existing modes of discussion . the basic principle is to consider whether the function , capability and quantity of electricity of the available node of the candidate backup nodes can replace sensor 100 . at the beginning of the discussion , node 2 may send a message m 4 to node 1 and nodes 3 - 9 to inform them the function and capability of sensor 100 . during the whole discussion , avoid the sensor 100 if multi - hop communication is needed among the nodes participating in the discussion . message m 4 sent by node an may be in the format as follows : after discussion , node 4 is determined as the backup node ( bn )) of sensor 100 . of course , the result of the discussion may also determining of any other available qualified node ( including node 2 ) as the backup node of sensor 100 . then , node 4 sends a message m 5 to sensor 100 for requesting the function and / or data of sensor 100 , e . g . temperature inducing function of sensor 100 . message m 5 sent by backup node ( bn , node 4 ) may be in the format as follows : upon receiving message m 5 sent from node 4 , sensor 100 sends the data and / or function to the node 4 to be backed up , and puts itself in a power - saving state . the sending process may also be done in two steps . in the first step , the general data and / or function are transferred to backup node ( bn , node 4 ), and when the quantity of electricity of sensor 100 further drops to a lower lever , the key data and / or function are transferred to the backup node ( bn , node 4 ). after the backup , sensor 100 no longer induces the temperature variation , and node 4 performs sensor 100 &# 39 ; s temperature inducing instead . finally , agent node ( an , node 2 ) or backup node ( bn , node 4 ) may also send a notice message m 6 to the nodes ( e . g . available nodes alan ) that has communicated with sensor 100 , informing it that sensor 100 is in a power - saving state and that its function and / or data are processed by the backup node ( bn , node 4 ), so that it could adopt corresponding measures , such as one for updating their route table . message m 6 sent by agent node ( an , node 2 ) may be in the format as follows : if the sensor network has a control center , the agent node ( an , node 2 ) or backup node ( bn , node 4 ) may also send a notice message m 7 to the control center for informing the control center that sensor 100 is in a power - saving state and that its function and / or data are to be processed by the backup node ( bn , node 4 ). message m 7 sent by agent node ( an , node 2 ) may be in the format as follows : in a sensor network , various nodes may be of different level of importance . by virtue of the present invention , the nodes of minor importance may seek a backup node for a node of importance , so as to reduce the communication burden of the node of importance and prolong their life of performance . of course , every node may be selected to be as a backup node by an adjacent node according to given principles . the present invention has been described above in combination with the embodiments . it is evident that those skilled in the art can obviously make all sorts of substitutions , modifications and changes on the basis of what has been described above . for that matter , all substitutions , modifications and changes of the nature should be in the spirit , and fall within the scope , of the claims of the present invention . | US-72077905-A |
a method and apparatus for charging the battery of an electric vehicle are provided . when the electric vehicle is connected to a charging station , it is interrogated to determine the nature of the charge controller that is on board the vehicle ; and logic decisions invoking the particular mode for charging the vehicle are made depending on the nature and type of charge controller that is on board the vehicle . thus , delivery of charging energy to the battery in the vehicle may be entirely under the control of a charge controller on board the vehicle ; or if the control module in the vehicle is less sophisticated then delivery of charging energy will be under the control of a charging module within the charging station . parameters of initial charging current and voltage are therefore set either by the on board battery charging controller , or the charge controller in the charging station ; alternatively , those parameters may be set manually or by insertion of a card into a data interface to establish initial charging conditions . under controlled conditions , a plurality of vehicles may be charged at a single establishment having a plurality of charging stations , either sequentially or simultaneously , depending on the criteria to be established . the charging station may be privately owned , so as to charge a fleet of vehicles ; or there may be a plurality of charging stations at a publicly accessible service station . | first , having regard to fig1 a typical logic flow diagram 20 for operation of a charging station in keeping with the present invention is provided . at the start 22 , a determination is made at 24 as to whether there is a vehicle connected to the charging station . if yes , the vehicle is interrogated at 26 to determine if there is a battery energy management system on board the vehicle . if no , the vehicle is interrogated at 28 to determine if there is any other compatible battery specific charging control module on board the vehicle ; and if no , the vehicle is interrogated at 30 to determine if there is a &# 34 ; personality module &# 34 ; on board the vehicle whereby the personality module will at least identify the criteria of maximum charging current and nominal charging voltage under which conditions the battery may be charged in the shortest possible time period . in the absence of the personality module , the decision is made at 32 as to whether the charging station will be manually operated . if no , the logic loops back to 24 , where a determination is made if there is , indeed , a vehicle connected to the charging station . if manual operation is selected at 32 , there must at least be present on board the vehicle a monitoring means which determines the terminal voltage of the battery being charged . now , if either step 26 or 28 determines that there is a battery specific charging control module on board the vehicle , then charging operation is started at 34 . operators 36 and 38 indicate that the on - board battery specific charging control module operates the charging station as a controlled current source with the on board controller making all of the decisions as to the value of charging current and voltage at any instant in time . there are also start and stop commands that are issued repetitively , for example every second , which are part of the monitoring function to determine if the charging operation is proceeding normally , and if the established criteria for charging current and voltage at any instant in time are still being followed . sooner or later , usually when the battery is charged , a decision is made at 40 to stop the charging operation . if so , then the charging station interrogates at 42 to determine if the vehicle has been disconnected and if so , the charging operation is done as at 44 . indeed , operation of the charging station as a controlled current source with the on - board battery specific controller making all decisions as to the value of charging current and voltage at any instant in time may , itself , comprise one of three alternative modes : ( a ) the battery is charged under control of the battery specific charging control module by periodically interrupting the flow of charging current to the battery , detecting the instantaneous resistance free terminal voltage of the battery during each interval of time when delivery of charging current has been halted , and comparing the instantaneous resistance free terminal voltage of the battery to a reference voltage stored in the charging control module associated with that battery ; or ( b ) charging the battery under control of the battery specific charging control module and under conditions of constant current and constant voltage until a preset terminal voltage of the battery has been reached , and thereafter halting delivery of the constant charging current to the battery ; or ( c ) charging the battery under control of the battery specific charging control module by sending pulses of charging current to the battery , following each pulse of charging current by briefly discharging the battery , and then halting all current flow to or from the battery until the initiation of the next charging pulse . accordingly , the charging control module in the vehicle which is associated with the battery and is thereby battery specific will comprise : ( a ) means for periodically interrupting the flow of charging current to the battery , means for detecting the instantaneous resistance free terminal voltage of the battery during each interval of time when delivery of the charging current has been halted , and means for comparing the instantaneous resistance free terminal voltage of the battery to a reference voltage stored in the charging control module associated with the battery ; ( b ) means for delivering a constant current at a constant voltage to the battery , means for determining when a preset terminal voltage of the battery has been reached , and means for halting delivery of the constant charging current to the battery ; and ( c ) means for sending pulses of charging current to the battery , means for briefly discharging the battery following each pulse of charging current , and means for halting all current flow to or from the battery until the initiation of the next charging pulse . if the decision is made at 30 that a personality module is on board the vehicle , then a start decision is made at 46 . the voltage reference and maximum current readings are taken at 48 , and control is passed to the charging station at 50 . there , the charging station follows charging procedures and methods particularly as discussed in u . s . pat . nos . 5 , 202 , 617 and 5 , 204 , 611 , mentioned above . as before , stop commands are periodically issued , for example every second , and sooner or later the decision is made at 52 to stop the charging operation because the battery is fully charged . once again , the charging station interrogates itself at 42 to determine if the vehicle has been disconnected , and if so the charging operation is done at 44 . finally , if manual operation has been selected at 32 , then a determination is made at 54 as to whether or not a vehicle identification card has been inserted into a data interface in the charging station . that vehicle identification card will establish the charging station settings for nominal charging voltage and maximum charging current ; and if it is present , that step is taken at 56 . if no vehicle identification card has been inserted into the data interface on the charging station , then a manual start decision must be made at 58 . if so , then the nominal voltage and maximum charging current must be manually entered into the registers on the charging station at 60 . as noted above , the charging station may be equipped with a meter which might define in advance the amount of energy to be delivered to the battery or the monetary price of the energy to be delivered to the battery , together with appropriate shut off means to terminate the delivery of charging current when a predetermined amount of energy has been delivered or a predetermined monetary price of energy has been delivered , whichever occurs first . thus , the maximum value of charging energy to be delivered to the battery is accomplished by selectively setting the meter . still further , as noted above , the unit monetary price of energy may be altered depending on the time of day when charging current flows to the battery . after either step 56 or 60 , the charge control module in the charging station takes over at 62 . once again , a number of decision steps must be followed ; the first of those is at 64 where a determination has been made as to whether or not preset values of total kwh to be delivered to the battery have been reached , or if a predetermined price of energy has been reached . if yes , then immediately the charging function is terminated , and the charging station interrogates itself at 42 to determine if the vehicle has been disconnected . if the preset price or amount of energy to be delivered to the battery has not yet been reached , a decision is made at 66 as to whether any particular plateau -- which typically would be whether the battery has achieved a specific terminal voltage -- has been reached . if so , then once again the charging function is terminated , and the charging station interrogates itself as to whether or not the vehicle has been disconnected at 42 . finally , if neither inquiry at 64 or 66 has terminated the charging operation , then in the meantime and as before there have been periodic stop commands issued by the charge control module within the charging station . sooner or later , that stop command will be accepted , and the decision will be made at 68 to terminate the charging function . of course , decisions to terminate the charging function may be made at 40 , 52 , 66 , or 68 , depending on the sophistication of the on board controller or the controller in the charging station , and depending on the amount of data being communicated across the data communications link , whereby the charging function might be terminated in the event that the internal temperature of the battery , or its internal pressure , become too high , or in keeping with other criteria more particularly as described in u . s . pat . no . 5 , 204 , 611 , introduced above . turning now to fig2 a vehicle 80 is shown being attached to a charging station 82 . the vehicle has a battery 84 on board and may have a charge controller or battery energy management system 86 , or other monitoring device or module , as described above . the vehicle 80 is connected through connector 88 to the charging station 82 . there is a pair of wires 90 that are provided , and they are capable of carrying the maximum value of charging current to be delivered to the battery 84 . there is also a data communication means 92 that is provided , and it may be dedicated data wires , or it may be a power link carrier device , or optical fibre . opto - couplers and associated data transfer means may be provided , or inductive couplers with their associated transfer means . alternatively , the data communication link may be a radio frequency transmitter and receiver located appropriately in each of the vehicle 80 and the power station 82 . appropriate wire , cable , or fibre connectors or transfer means will be provided for the radio frequency transmitter and receiver , as necessary . the power station 82 is shown at wires 94 being connected to the grid connection , which is the high voltage ac power lines provided by the local power authority , and from which electrical energy is drawn . the face of the power station may be provided with a manual interface and key pad 96 , or a card slot 98 that communicates with a data interface within the power station 82 . in either event , there are registers thereby provided and associated with the key pad 96 and the card slot 98 by which settings of nominal charging voltage and maximum charging current may be established manually or by inserting a card into card slot 98 . as noted above , the card and the data interface associated with card slot 98 will be compatible and may be such as to read &# 34 ; personality data &# 34 ; such as nominal charging voltage and maximum charging current that may be encoded into the card by a magnetic stripe , punched holes , or embossed depressions and / or mounds . other annunciators 100 and 102 may be provided to give a running indication of the amount of energy being delivered in kwh or its cost in local currency , such as dollars . in that regard , it has been noted that it may be appropriate to equip the utility interface on the front face of the charging station 82 with appropriate programmable registers or the like within the charging station to set the price per unit of energy depending on the time day . the time dependent pricing provides benefit for all of the power authority , the operator of the charging station , and the consumer , since higher daytime prices might tend to discourage operation of the charging station during peak energy consumption times during the day . it may be that the price to the operator of the charging station from the local power authority may vary depending on the time of day . in any event , there may be less demand on the power authority and economies to be realized by the consumer , if the charging station is operated at off - peak hours . it should also be noted that the battery energy management system 86 which is on board the vehicle 80 may also have with it suitable monitoring means to monitor the battery 84 during charge and / or discharge , as taught in u . s . pat . no . 5 , 206 , 578 , introduced above . moreover , the personality module which might be provided on board the vehicle 80 , in place of the charge controller 86 , may be designed to provide a calibrated divider network whose purpose is to make the battery 84 appear to the charging station 82 as if it is a standard lead / acid battery of known nominal voltage . of course , at the same time , maximum charging current in established by the personality module . thus , various electrochemical systems for the battery 84 may be accommodated . now , turning to fig3 a typical system is shown as might be operated by a fleet operator who owns a number of electric vehicle which might be delivery vehicles , fork lift trucks , golf carts , rental vehicles , or the like . there , a plurality of vehicle batteries may be charged from the single charging station 120 , by distributing charging energy to any one of a plurality of switches or contactors 122 , to which a plurality of electric vehicles 124 may be connected . each vehicle 124 has its own on board battery 126 , and its own on board charge controller 128 in the present discussion . the charging station 120 is connected to the distribution grid at 130 , through a utility interface 132 and a common rectifier . within the charging station 120 there is a station controller 136 , a switching inverter module 138 , a user interface 140 , and a vehicle interface 142 . the user interface may be the same as key pad 96 , for example , shown in fig2 and / or card slot 98 . the vehicle interface 142 provides means by which a data communication link 144 communicates with the charging station 120 . the charger output from the charging station is at 146 , and a power line comprising a pair of wires 148 provides the charging current to each of the contactors 122 . here , only one of the contactors 122 will be selectively closed at any one time . however , each of the contactors 122 has its own unique designation -- for example , as indicated by the designations 122a , 122b , 122c , 122d , etc . thus , means are provided to selectively close any one of the contactors while retaining the power line 148 in connection with all of the switches or contactors . however , the decision as to the order of sequentially closing one at a time of the switches or contactors 122a , 122b , etc ., may be established according to any one of a number of priority protocols . for example , it may well be that the operator or owner of the charging station and all of the vehicles connected to it might choose to establish no priority , and will close each of the switches or contactors 122a , 122b , etc ., in sequence , accordingly to their respective unique designation . on the other hand , he may establish a priority as to which of the respective batteries 126 will be charged first by determining which of those batteries might require either the greatest amount of charging energy or the least amount of charging energy . the other batteries would then be ranked according to their respective charge requirements , either greater or lesser in keeping with the protocol being established . alternatively , some other user - determined priority protocol may be established . finally , with reference to fig4 a typical public service station 180 is shown . here , there are a plurality of charging stations or outlets 182 , to each of which a vehicle 184 may be connected in much the same manner and using the same arrangements as shown in fig2 . each charging station 182 may have essentially the same appearance and operation as charging station 82 , described above in association with fig2 . each of the charging stations 182 within service station 180 may have a power rating of 150 kw . however , the single and common controlled rectifier 186 from which each of the charging stations 182 is supplied charging power may have a rating of 300 kw . it , of course , is provided with its own utility interface 188 and its own billing interface 190 . the utility interface provides the appropriate connections to the distribution grid 192 which is provided by the local power authority ; the billing interface 190 interfaces for purposes of accounting and management to each of the charging stations 182 and to such as a data network operated by credit card and debit card issuers . it is possible that more than one vehicle 184 may be connected to more than one charging station 182 at any one time . if so , and if each of the associated electric vehicle batteries is absorbing maximum charging current at one time , the output from the controlled rectifier 186 may exceed its rating . in that case , a charge / discharge controller 194 may monitor the output of the controlled rectifier , and may be such as to issue signals which either reduce the output from each of the charging stations 182 that may be operating , or which might preclude the possibility of another of the charging stations 182 from coming on line until such time as the output from the controlled rectifier has reduced below the predetermined allowable maximum output . likewise , means may be provided for load levelling , whereby the energy demands by the controlled rectifier 186 from the distribution grid 192 may be reduced . for example , a load levelling battery 196 may be provided , or a load levelling flywheel energy storage device 198 may be provided . their function is to accumulate energy during off - peak hours , when the price of energy from the distribution grid is low , and to support the service station 180 whenever necessary during peak hours . obviously , the purpose of the charge / discharge controller 194 may also be to ensure that the load levelling battery 196 is recharged during off - peak hours to its maximum capacity . there has been described apparatus and methods for charging one or a plurality of electric vehicles , where the charging station to which any electric vehicle may be connected is essentially universal in that it will accommodate a great variety of electric vehicles which may have on board controllers or which may rely on charge controllers within the charging stations . other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims . | US-27587894-A |
a flagpole ball ornament comprising opposed , hollow , hemispherical parts interfitted to each other at a circular rim formed on one of the parts and interconnected by an elongated diametral rod - like brace member . the brace member is internally threaded at opposite ends for receiving a machine screw to connect one of the hemispherical parts to the brace member and the opposite end of the brace member receives an all - thread member for connecting the ball to a support post member . the brace member may include , alternatively , a bolt clearance bore for receiving an elongated bolt for connection to the post member . | in the description which follows , like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawing with the same reference numerals , respectively . the drawing figures are not necessarily to scale and certain elements may be shown in somewhat schematic form in the interest of clarity and conciseness . referring to fig1 , there is illustrated a flagpole ornament in accordance with the invention and generally designated by the numeral 10 . the flagpole ornament 10 is illustrated mounted on the peak of a vertical oriented flagpole 12 having a conventional upper bracket or truck assembly 14 suitably mounted thereon . truck assembly 14 includes a somewhat inverted cup - shaped truck member 16 mounted on the peak of flagpole 12 in a conventional manner and supporting a conventional rotatable pulley 18 over which is trained a flag halyard 20 . flagpole ornament 10 is characterized as a generally spherical member or ball 11 and includes an upstanding post member 22 suitably connected to the truck member 16 as will be described in further detail herein . referring now to fig2 , the flagpole ball 11 is characterized by opposed hollow , shelllike , hemispherical parts 24 and 26 which are interengaged to form a substantially spherical member . hemispherical parts 24 and 26 are each , preferably formed of relatively thin - walled aluminum , for example , and are fabricated in a conventional manner by suitable forming technique , known to those skilled in the art . however , hemispherical ornament part 26 includes a slightly radially inwardly displaced circular rim 28 delimited by a circumferential edge 30 and dimensioned to fit snugly within and engaged with the inside wall 24 a of part 24 , as illustrated . the radially inwardly displaced rim 28 provides an annular shoulder 32 which is adapted to engage circumferential edge 25 of part 24 in a snug - fitting relationship to form the spherical ball member 11 . ball member 11 is held in assembly and strengthened against deformation by an internal diametral column or brace member 34 preferably comprising a cylindrical aluminum rod which is provided with opposed axially extending internally threaded bores or tapped holes 36 and 38 , as shown . hemispherical part 24 is preferably somewhat flattened at a circular portion 24 b opposite another somewhat flattened circular portion 26 b of part 26 . parts 24 and 26 are also provided with fastener receiving openings 24 c and 26 c , respectively . a pan - head machine screw 40 is operable to be inserted through opening 24 c and threadedly engaged with brace member 34 at threaded bore 36 , as shown , for securing part 24 to brace member 34 . referring further to fig2 , ornament post member 22 includes an externally threaded end part 23 which is shown threadedly engaged with truck member 16 and suitably locked in engagement therewith by a conventional hex - shaped locknut 43 . the opposite end of post member 22 includes an internally threaded bore 27 opening to a transverse end - face 29 of post member 22 which is engageable with the flattened part 26 b of hemispherical ornament part 26 . an externally , continuous threaded or “ allthread ” fastener member 46 extends through opening 26 c , is threadedly engaged with brace member 34 at threaded bore 38 and is threadedly engaged with post member 22 at threaded bore 27 . fastener member 46 is preferably formed of steel while post member 22 and , as mentioned previously , brace member 34 are preferably formed of aluminum . generally planar transverse end faces 34 a and 34 b of brace member 34 are tightly engaged with the respective flattened or planar circular portions 24 b and 26 b of the hemispherical parts 24 and 26 . accordingly , the head 41 of fastener 40 may be in complete area contact with a surface of the hemispherical part 24 and the end - face 29 of post member 22 is also in substantially total area contact with the flattened or planar portion 26 b of hemispherical part 26 . in this way , upon assembly of the ornament 10 , the brace member 34 is in engagement with the hemispherical parts 24 and 26 over relatively large areas to distribute stresses thereon while aiding in maintaining the assembly as a consequence of tightening the fastener 40 and tightening the post 22 against hemispherical part 26 , thanks to the allthread fastener member 46 . still further , the flagpole ornament 10 may advantageously utilize thread locking and sealant compositions - coated on the cooperating threads of the brace member 34 and the fasteners 40 and 46 , including a thread locking composition available under the trademark loctite , for example . referring briefly to fig3 , an alternate embodiment of a post member for use with the ornament 10 , in place of post member 22 , is illustrated and generally designated by the numeral 52 . post member 52 includes a transverse end face 53 , an internally threaded bore 54 and an axially extending externally threaded part 55 which may be of a different thread size than the threaded portion 23 of post member 22 . in this way , post members may be interchanged as required by the particular flagpole upper bracket or truck member to which the ornament 10 is to be connected . as previously mentioned , parts 24 and 26 are preferably formed of relatively thin - walled aluminum . for a ball diameter of about 4 . 0 inches , the wall thickness may be about 0 . 030 inches and the height “×” of the rim 28 , fig2 , is preferably about 0 . 38 to 0 . 50 inches . the brace member 34 and the post members 22 or 52 may be formed of aluminum cylindrical rod having a diameter of about 0 . 625 inches . the overall length of the post members 22 and 52 may be about 4 . 0 inches with the externally threaded portions being about 2 . 0 inches and the internally threaded portions 27 and 54 being about 1 . 0 inch deep and being of a thread size 5 / 16 - 18nc , for example . the allthread faster member 46 is preferably at least about 1 . 0 inches to 2 . 0 inches in length . fabrication and assembly of the ornament 10 , based on the foregoing description , is believed to be within the purview of one skilled in the art . referring now to fig4 , another embodiment of a flagpole ball ornament in accordance with the invention is illustrated and generally designated by the numeral 60 . the flagpole ornament 60 , utilizes the components of the flagpole ball ornament 10 , as indicated in fig4 , including the opposed hemispherical parts 24 and 26 and the post or column member 22 . however , the internal brace member 34 has been replaced by a similar brace member 34 g , which is provided with a fastener clearance bore 38 a for receiving an elongated machine screw or bolt 62 having a distal threaded portion 63 engageable with threaded bore 27 of post member 22 . brace member 34 g also includes the opposed transverse end faces 34 a and 34 b . machine screw or bolt 62 includes a conventional hexhead 64 and is of a diameter slightly less than the diameter of the bore 38 a . accordingly , fastener 62 comprising the hexhead machine screw or bolt is operable to secure the hemispherical parts 24 and 26 tightly together and braced by the brace member 34 g and further wherein a single fastener may be utilized to secure the ball ornament to the post or column member 22 . when assembling the flagpole ornament 60 , a thread locking and sealant composition as mentioned hereinabove is preferably used on the threads of the threaded shank part 63 and / or the bore 27 . the brace member 34 g may , in fact , be identical to the brace member 34 except for the bore 38 a , which may be of the same diameter as required for pre - drilling the brace member 34 to accommodate the threaded bores 36 and 38 when such bores are tapped in the brace member 34 . although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described in detail herein , those skilled in the art will recognize that various substitutions and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims . | US-51356006-A |
the invention provides an apparatus for transmitting calls generated by a first communication network over a second communication network to a third communication network , the first communication network operating in accordance with a first communication protocol which enables call services , the third communication network operating in accordance with a communication protocol which enables at least one of the call services enabled by the first communication protocol and the second communication network operating according to a second communication protocol different to the first . the apparatus includes means to produce a data message compatible with the second communication protocol indicative of the required service and means to transmit the call and data message over the second communication network to the third communication network , where the data message is read by further apparatus and an appropriate call service established to the third communication network . by providing means to produce a data message compatible with the second protocol to carry the call service information it is possible to establish a call service over a communications network even though that network does not explicitly support the call service . | with reference to fig2 a communication network 21 in accordance with the invention comprises a public switched telephony network 22 , four pbxs 23 , 24 , 25 and 26 each pbx serving an associated local network ( not shown ) and three virtual private network servers vpn server 27 , vpn server 28 and vpn server 29 . the communication network 21 also includes a number of communication paths . communication path 30 links pbx 25 to the vpn server 27 whilst communication path 31 links the vpn server 27 to the pstn 22 . similarly , communication path 32 links pbx 26 to vpn server 28 and communication path 33 links vpn server 28 to the pstn 22 . it will be seen from fig2 that vpn server 29 is linked to two pbxs . communication path 34 links the vpn server 29 to pbx 23 whilst communication path 35 links the vpn server 29 to pbx 24 . a further communication path 36 links vpn server 29 to pstn 22 . each of the local networks includes equipment of a well known type such as telephones , facsimile machines , computers and computer modems and these will not be described in greater detail . the pbxs are meridian 1 private branch exchanges , made by northern telecom , and available from british telecommunications pic of 81 newgate street , london . each vpn server 27 , 28 , 29 is an intelligent switching unit capable of signalling protocol conversion and signalling protocol manipulation in a way which will be later described . the vpn servers 27 and 28 are nominally identical , the structure is as shown schematically in fig3 and it comprises four major components , a processor 40 , a call transceiver 41 , a memory 42 , and a processor instruction means 45 . for vpn server 28 , the call transceiver 41 receives calls on communication path 32 originating from pbx 26 and on path 33 calls arriving by way of the pstn 22 . calls are also redirected by the call transceiver 41 onto these paths under the control of the processor 40 . similarly , for vpn server 27 calls are received by its transceiver 41 on paths 30 , 31 and calls can also be redirected onto these paths . vpn server 29 differs from vpn servers 27 , 28 only in the connection of a further communication path , that is to say , communication paths 34 , 35 and 36 are connected to its call transceiver 41 . the call transceiver 41 is connected to the processor 40 by a control and data bus 44 . the processor 40 is able to interpret call information received by the call transceiver 41 and to instruct the call transceiver 41 to retransmit the call onto an appropriate one of the paths . the call information is passed by the call transceiver 41 along the control and databus 44 to the processor 40 . the same control and databus 44 carries the instructions from the processor 40 to call transceiver 41 . the memory 42 stores a database of routing data and corresponding dialled digit strings arranged as a set of look - up tables . the processor 40 can access the data stored in the look - up table by means of a databus 43 in a way that will be later described . the processor instruction means 45 is a data storage area which stores the instructions which the processor 40 follows to perform the required operations . it takes the form of a rom ( read only memory ), but it could take the form of a floppy disk , hard disk or other data storage device . fig4 shows a table 46 which is held in the memory 42 of each vpn server 27 , 28 and 29 . the table 46 comprises a first field 46 a within which is stored lead digits of digit strings that may be dialled by a telephone user . the lead digits include “ 9 ”, “ 22 ”, “ 33 ”, “ 34 ” and “ 44 ”. a second field 46 b contains full bearer call numbers to be associated with the dialled lead digits . lead digit “ 9 ” is associated with null bearer call number . lead digits “ 22 ” are associated with a bearer call number “ 0642 - 224694 ”. lead digits “ 33 ” are associated with a bearer call number “ 0798 - 332040 ”. lead digits “ 34 ” are associated with a bearer call “ 0798 - 342041 ”. lead digits “ 44 ” are associated with a bearer call “ 0402 - 440103 ”. table 46 is configured as a look - up table such that inputting a lead digit or digits returns a bearer call number . thus , if the lead digits “ 33 ” are input into the table 46 the bearer call number “ 0798 - 332040 ” is returned . as can be seen from fig2 numbers are allocated to parts of the communications network 21 as follows . vpn server 27 is allocated the number “ 0642 224694 ” and pbx 25 is allocated the number “ 224 ” the extensions supported by the pbx 25 being represented by “ xxx ” in the figure . vpn server 28 is allocated the number “ 0402 440103 ” with the pbx it serves pbx 26 being allocated “ 440 ”. again , extensions being supported by the pbx are indicated as allocated to the number range “ xxx ”. vpn server 20 is allocated the numbers “ 0798 332040 ” and “ 0798 342041 ”. the pbx 23 is allocated the number “ 332 ” with its extensions being allocated numbers in a range represented by “ xxx ” in the figure . the pbx 24 is allocated the number “ 342 ” with the extensions it supports being allocated numbers in a range represented in the figure by “ xxx ”. the local networks operate in accordance with a communications protocol called dpnss - 1 ( digital , private network signalling system ). this protocol is well known to those skilled in the art of telecommunications and it enables a number of call services such as “ call - back - when - free ”, “ call - back - when - next - used ”, “ divert - on - busy ” and “ centralised - operator ”. the pstn 22 operates in accordance with a communications protocol called dass 2 ( digital access signalling system no . 2 ). again , this protocol is well known to those skilled in the art of telecommunications , but it is important to note that it does not support call services . it does , however , allow signalling between two pbx nodes in the form of user to user data messages . the user to user data message has a format as shown in fig5 . it comprises a thirty two byte structure 50 . a first one byte 51 is the message_type field of the message . it signifies whether the data message is complete or incomplete . this caters for the situation where a number of data messages are required to carry a particular set of data . a first to a penultimate data message will have a first byte 51 signifying the data message is incomplete and the last data message will have a first byte 51 signifying that the data message is complete . a second byte 52 signifies the length of the data carried in a data field 53 . the data field 53 is allocated thirty bytes of the message . the communications network 21 operates in a manner as shown in fig6 when a call is to be established between extensions served by different pbx &# 39 ; s . in the figure a prefix p1 means that the message is configured according to the first protocol , dpnss , and a prefix p2 means that the message is configured according to the second protocol dass2 . let us suppose that a first user is on an extension served by pbx 24 and wishes to call a second user on an extension served by pbx 25 . the first user dials a “ 9 ” for an outside line followed by “ 0642 224xxx ” the pstn number for a direct connection to the extension ( direct in the sense that it does not go via a switchboard operator ). the dialling of a “ 9 - 0642 224xxx ” results in a message p 1_call ( 9 - 0642 224xxx ) being sent to vpn server 29 from pbx 24 . the vpn server 29 receives this along communication path 35 . the call transceiver 41 passes the message to the processor 40 . the processor 40 inputs the leading digit 9 into the look - up table 46 held in memory 42 . the look - up table returns the bearer call number , which in this case is null . the processor 40 thus instructs the call transceiver 41 to suppress the leading digit “ 9 ” and a call message according to the dass2 protocol , p 2_call ( 0642 224xxx ), is sent over the pstn 22 to vpn server 27 . vpn server 27 converts this message to its equivalent in dpnss p 1_call ( 0642 224xxx ). pbx 25 then sends an acknowledgement message p 1_ack to the vpn server 27 . vpn server 27 transmits an acknowledge message p 2_ack over the pstn22 to vpn server 29 . vpn server 29 then sends a p 1_ack to pbx24 . pbx 25 then sends a p 1_answer message which results in vpn server 27 sending a p 2_answer over pstn22 to vpn server 29 . vpn server 29 sends a p 1_answer message to pbx24 . fig7 shows the messaging sequence that occurs when a call service is to be utilised over the pstn 22 between extensions served by different pbxs . suppose a call is to be made from a first extension served by pbx 25 to a second extension served by pbx 23 , and then is to utilise a call service . again in this figure the prefix p1 is attached to a message which conforms to the protocol dpnss and the prefix p2 is attached to a message which conforms to the protocol dass2 . to set up the call , the pbx 25 receives a dialled digit string including a code for a call service from the first extension . pbx 25 then sends a message to vpn server 27 , p 1_call ( service + 332xxx ), 332xxx being the second extension served by pbx 23 . service being a code for the particular call service required . vpn server 27 receives the message and inputs the first two digits “ 33 ” of the extension number into its look - up table 46 . this returns the bearer call number 0798 - 332040 . the processor 40 transmits from the call transceiver 41 a message p 2_call ( uud + 0798 - 332040 ). the message is transmitted across the pstn 22 to vpn server 29 . vpn server 29 sends an p 2_ack acknowledgement message across the pstn22 to vpn server 27 . this is followed by a p 2_answer message . the vpn server 27 then sends the original call message p 1_call ( service + 232xxx ) in a uud in the dass2 protocol . this is shown in fig7 as the message p 2_uud ( p 1_call ( service + 332xxx )). this travels across the pstn 22 to the vpn server 29 in a “ transparent ” way that is to say no number translation or protocol conversion is carried out but rather the original message is carried within the dass2 compatible uud . the processor 40 of vpn server 29 then removes from the uud , the dpnss message p 1_call ( service + 332xxx ). it then transmits the message to pbx 23 . thus it will now be seen that to pbx 23 it appears that it has received the message directly from pbx 25 that is to say it is a dpnss call . pbx 23 then returns an acknowledgement message p 1_ack followed by p 1_answer . these are loaded by the vpn server 29 into uuds to form p 2_uud ( p 1_ack ) and p 2_uud ( p 1_answer ) and they are sent over the pstn22 to vpn server 27 . vpn server 27 then removes the dpnss messages and sends them to pbx25 . speech can then be initiated . | US-79104697-A |
the present invention is a wheel assembly having a rim with a valve aperture extending therethrough that is designed to receive a valve having a simplified a construction that can be seated directly within a tire wheel assembly to minimize the number and type of components necessary for the valve . the valve includes a main body that is positionable in a sealed and recessed or embedded configuration within the aperture in the wheel rim in communication with the interior of the tire and with a pressurized air source that is used to inflate or deflate the tire . the main body encloses a valve mechanism that includes a components situated within the main body in a manner that enables the parts to be easily removed , cleaned and / or replaced if necessary without having to remove the entire valve assembly from the wheel . | with reference now to the drawing figures in which like reference numerals designate like parts throughout the disclosure , a wheel assembly 1000 including an inner rim member 10 and an outer rim member 24 is illustrated in fig1 - 3b . the inner rim 10 includes a peripheral wall 12 adapted to support an inflatable tire 200 and an outer flange 14 at one end of the wall 12 . opposite the outer flange 14 , the inner rim 10 includes a mounting wall 16 extending inwardly from the peripheral wall 12 . the mounting wall 16 defines a central opening 17 that receives a hub ( not shown ) and includes a number of first openings 18 spaced around the circumference of the mounting wall 16 adjacent the peripheral wall 12 , a number of second openings 19 spaced inwardly from the first openings 18 opposite the peripheral wall 12 , and a valve mounting opening 20 disposed between adjacent second openings 19 . each of the first openings 18 receives a wheel stud 22 therein that extends through the mounting wall 16 for connecting the outer rim 24 to the inner rim 10 . the outer rim 24 and the outer flange 14 on the inner rim 12 define the outer edges of the wheel assembly 1000 within which opposed beads ( not shown ) of a tire ( not shown ) are mounted and retained . the second openings 19 are used to mount the wheel assembly 1000 on a number of hub bolts ( not shown ) that can secure the wheel assembly 1000 and tire to the hub ( not shown ) of a vehicle ( not shown ). the inner rim 12 also includes an air passage or channel 26 formed in the inner rim 10 that extends from the valve opening 20 through the peripheral wall 12 . the air channel 26 is formed in the inner rim 10 in any suitable manner , such as by drilling , and terminates in a groove 28 formed in the peripheral wall 12 , and that preferably extends radially inwardly from the channel 26 towards the center of the wall 12 . when the outer rim 24 is affixed to the inner rim 10 , the outer rim 24 is positioned over the air channel 26 and a portion of the groove 28 to define an air flow path between the valve opening 20 and the exterior of the peripheral wall 12 , over which the tire is positioned , thereby creating a path for introducing and removing air from the interior of the tire . alternatively , the shape and direction of the groove 28 can be varied as desired , so long as the end of the groove 28 opposite the channel 26 is not completely obscured by the outer rim 24 . additionally , the groove 28 can be omitted entirely , and the channel 26 can be formed to extend from the opening 20 to a point on the peripheral wall 12 below the outer rim 24 when the outer rim 24 is secured to the inner rim 10 . also , the outer rim 24 can be formed in a manner that allows communication between the channel 26 and the tire when the wheel assembly 10 is completed , such as by forming the groove 28 in the outer rim 24 . further , the inner rim 10 and the outer rim 24 can be formed as a single piece rim ( not shown ), eliminating the need for securing the sections to one another . within the valve opening 20 is mounted a control valve cartridge 30 that is used to control the flow of air into and out of the tire 200 . by mounting the valve cartridge 30 within the opening 20 extending through the inner rim 10 , and located radially inwardly of the outer rim 24 , the valve 30 is protected from being damaged by objects stuck by and striking the inner rim 10 or outer rim 24 . this is because when the valve 30 is disposed within the opening 20 , a much smaller portion of the valve 30 is disposed on the exterior surface of the wheel assembly 1000 . also , the positioning of the valve opening 20 adjacent to the first openings 18 and second openings 19 positions the wheel studs 22 and the hub mounting bolts close to the portion of the valve 30 outside of the opening 20 . the studs 22 and bolts are longer than the valve 30 , such that they prevent objects and debris from being able to move far enough into the wheel assembly 1000 to contact the valve 30 . referring now to fig4 - 20 , in one embodiment , the valve cartridge 30 includes a main body 32 that is positioned within and frictionally or sealingly engaged with the valve opening 20 . the main body 32 , as best shown in fig4 - 8 , includes a lower end 34 and an upper end 36 connected to one another . the lower end 34 is preferably cylindrical in shape , and includes a number of air inlet shafts 38 extend through the lower end 34 that are aligned with one or more mating holes ( not shown ) in the wheel hub ( not shown ) to provide a connection to the pressurized air supply ( not shown ) used to inflate or deflate the tire 200 . the lower ends of the inlet shafts 38 are covered by disk screen 40 ( fig1 ) engaged within the lower end of the main body 32 . between the shafts 38 is disposed a central chamber 42 . the central chamber 42 has a wide upper portion 43 a , and a narrow lower portion 43 a from which extend a number of air outlet shafts 44 which are positioned between and oriented perpendicular to the inlet shafts 38 . the outlet shafts 44 are surrounded on their outer ends on the exterior of the main body 32 by a cylindrical ring screen 46 ( fig1 ) formed similarly to the disk screen 40 . above and below the screen 46 on the exterior of the main body 32 are disposed channels 48 in which are located sealing members 50 to enable the main body 32 to frictionally and sealingly engage the circumference of the valve opening 20 , securely holding the valve 30 therein . the upper end 36 defines a central recess 52 that extends the entire length of the upper end 36 . opposite the recess 52 , the exterior of the upper end 36 includes a screw thread 54 . to assist the sealing members 48 and 50 in securely holding the valve 30 within the valve opening 20 , an anchor plate or ring 56 , best shown in fig4 , 5 , and 9 , is threadedly engaged with the thread 54 on the upper end 36 . the anchor plate 56 includes a circular central part 58 that defines a central opening 60 having a threaded interior surface 62 matable with the thread 54 . extending from the central part 58 , and preferably from approximately opposite side of the central part 58 , are a pair of securing flanges 64 each having an aperture 66 defined therein . the apertures 66 can receive bolts ( not shown ) therein that secure the flanges 64 to the inner rim 10 , and the valve 30 within the opening 20 . as an alternative to the anchor ring 56 , especially for use in situations where the rim 10 is not sufficiently thick to enclose the valve cartridge 30 , a valve cup 300 is illustrated in fig9 a and 9b . the cup 300 is formed with an open upper end 302 and a closed lower end 304 between which extends a circular wall 306 . the circular wall 306 includes a lower section 310 and an upper section 308 separated by an annular shoulder 312 . the lower section 310 includes a number of apertures 314 formed therein that extend through the lower section 310 generally perpendicular to the wall 306 . the upper section 308 includes a threaded interior surface 316 that extends the length of the upper section 308 . a bottom wall 318 forming the closed lower end 304 includes an air inlet 320 that is in fluid communication with the interior 322 of the cup 300 . the air inlet 320 is positioned within a sleeve 324 that extends outwardly from the bottom wall 318 and includes a threaded exterior surface 326 extending the length of the sleeve 324 . the main body 32 of the valve cartridge 30 can be positioned within the cup 300 by inserting the lower end 34 into the lower section 310 , and threadedly engaging the upper section 36 with the interior surface 316 of the upper section 308 . the interior surface 316 allows the upper end 36 to be inserted into the cup 300 until the upper end 36 contacts the annular shoulder 312 . in this position , the upper end 36 of the main body 32 extends outwardly from the upper end 302 of the cup 300 , while the lower end 34 is spaced a short distance above the lower end 304 . additionally , when the main body 32 is fully inserted within the cup 300 , the air outlet shafts 44 in the lower end 34 are generally aligned with the apertures 314 in the lower section 310 , and are sealed off from the upper end 302 and lower end 304 of the cup 300 by the sealing members 50 located within the channels 48 extending around the lower end 34 . also , because the upper end 36 is positioned above the upper end 302 of the cup 300 , the cap 70 can be engaged with the main body 32 as discussed previously , to retain the various components of the valve cartridge 30 within the main body 32 . either prior to or after insertion of the main body 32 within the cup 300 , the cup 300 can be secured to a wheel rim 10 such that the apertures 314 are positioned in alignment with the passage 26 to enable air passing through the valve cartridge 30 and out the outlet shafts 44 to enter the passage 26 . also , the sleeve 324 within which the air inlet 320 is disposed is engageable with a threaded hub air outlet ( not shown ) to both securely engage the air inlet 320 for the cup 300 with the air outlet on the hub , and to provide added support to the cup and valve cartridge 30 . to hold the valve components of an interior valve mechanism 81 within the central recess 52 , a cap 70 is engageable with the thread 54 above the anchor plate 56 . as best shown in fig4 , 5 and 14 , the valve cap 70 is generally cylindrical in shape , having a top wall 72 from which downwardly extends a circular side wall 74 . the side wall 74 includes a threaded interior surface 76 that is engageable with the thread 54 on the upper end 36 . immediately adjacent the top wall 72 , the side wall 74 includes a peripheral notch 78 that is co - linear with the threaded interior surface 76 and that encloses a sealing member 80 therein . thus , when the cap 70 is engaged with the upper end 36 of the main body 32 , the sealing member 80 sealingly engages the upper end 36 above the thread 54 to provide and airtight sea between the upper end 36 and the cap 70 . being threadedly engaged with the upper end 36 , the cap 70 is also removable from the main body 32 in order to clean or replace the interior components of the valve 30 without also removing the main body 32 from the valve opening 20 . this is due to the ability of the main body 32 to be secured within the valve opening 20 by either or both of the sealing members 48 and 50 and the anchor plate 56 , which are each located below the cap 70 . turning now to fig4 , 5 , 10 and 11 , the interior valve mechanism 81 includes a valve seat 82 is disposed within the central recess 52 of the upper end 36 of the main body 32 . the valve seat 82 includes a wide upper end 84 and a narrow lower end 86 . the narrow lower end 86 includes a number of air flow tubes 88 formed therein that extend from the exterior of the lower end 86 into fluid communication with a central opening 90 located in the center of the lower end 86 . the lower end 86 also includes an axially extending ring 92 at the lowermost end . the ring 92 provides an alignment and engagement point for the lower end 86 of the valve seat 82 to rest on and sealingly engage a sealing ring 94 located within the wide upper end 43 a of the chamber 42 in the main body 32 . this engagement provides an airtight seal between the lower end 86 of the valve seat 82 and the main body 32 . the wide upper end 84 of the valve seat 82 defines an inner chamber 96 that is disposed concentrically with the central opening 90 in the lower end 86 . as best shown in fig1 and 11 , on the exterior of the upper end 84 opposite the chamber 96 are formed a number of spaced air flow passages 98 that extend the entire length of the upper end 84 to allow air entering through the shafts 38 in the main body 32 to flow upwardly around the valve seat 82 . immediately below the upper end 84 of the valve seat 82 , the passages 98 extend inwardly into fluid communication with the inner chamber 96 of the valve seat 82 . inside the upper end 84 of the valve seat 82 adjacent the opening 90 , the chamber 96 defines a circular retaining wall 100 having an annular shoulder 102 defined therein . the retaining wall 100 and shoulder 102 are used to receive and engage a valve bushing 104 . as best shown in fig4 , 5 and 13 , the valve bushing 104 is generally cylindrical in shape and defines a central aperture 106 that , when bushing 104 is disposed on the shoulder 102 within the retaining wall 100 , is positioned concentrically with the chamber 96 and the opening 90 in the valve seat 82 as well as with the central chamber 42 in the lower end 34 of the main body 32 . a sealing member 108 is positioned between the bushing 104 and a peripheral flange 110 separating the opening 90 from the chamber 96 to provide an airtight seal between the bushing 104 and the upper end 86 of the valve seat 82 . referring now to fig4 , 5 , 15 and 16 , a valve piston 112 is disposed within the chamber 96 above the bushing 104 . the piston 112 is generally cylindrical in shape with a diameter slightly less than that of the interior of the chamber 96 , and including a peripheral recess 114 within which is disposed a sealing member 116 . the piston 112 is slidably movable within the chamber 96 and the sealing member 116 engages the chamber 96 in manner that provides an airtight seal between the piston 112 and the chamber 96 as the piston 112 moves within the chamber 96 . the piston 112 also includes a threaded bore 118 extending through the center of the piston 112 in a direction perpendicular to the recess 114 . the bore 118 is threadedly engaged with a threaded end 120 of a valve stem 122 , best shown in fig4 , 5 and 18 - 20 . the valve stem 122 extends from the threaded end 120 downwardly through the aperture 106 in the bushing 104 . downwardly from the threaded end 120 , the stem 122 has a diameter slightly less than that of the aperture 106 in the bushing 104 , such that the busing 104 provides a guide for the movement of the valve stem 122 when moved as a result of the movement of the piston 112 . below the bushing 104 , the stem 122 extends through the opening 90 and into the chamber 42 , where the stem 122 terminates with a radial stem flange 124 positioned below and in sealing engagement with the sealing flange 94 opposite the valve seat 82 . the stem flange 124 includes a number of tines 126 that extend outwardly from the flange 124 and are crimped or bent inwardly to grip one end of a spring 128 . the spring 128 is positioned between the stem flange 124 and the lowermost end of the central chamber 42 , such that the spring 128 urges the valve stem 122 and the piston 112 upwardly , to sealingly engage the flange 124 with the sealing flange 94 , and to position the piston 112 adjacent the upper end 84 of the valve seat 82 . the stem flange 124 can also include various spring - engaging features in different embodiments ( fig1 - 20 ) that enhance the ability of the flange 124 to stay in engagement with the spring 128 , such as outwardly extending or angled tabs 129 , a securing ring 130 extending downwardly from the flange 124 and having a diameter larger or smaller than that of the spring 128 for the spring 128 to seat therein or therearound , respectively , or a 130 ring including a slot ( not shown ) that receives and engages a part of the spring 128 to positively hold the flange 124 on the spring 128 . looking now at fig4 , when the valve 30 is not in operation no air flow is passing through the valve 30 , such that the bias of the spring 128 urges the flange 124 against the sealing flange 94 to prevent any air flow from the inlet shafts 38 in the lower end 34 of the main body 32 , through the air tubes 88 in the lower end 86 of the valve seat 82 and past the sealing flange 94 into the air outlet shafts 44 in the lower end 43 of the main body 32 to the tire 200 . however , upon activation of the central tire inflation system to which the valve 30 is connected , a pressurized air flow is directed from the hub through the air inlet shafts 38 and along the air flow passages 98 in the valve seat 82 into the upper end 36 of the main body 32 above the piston 112 . the pressure of the air flow builds in the upper end 36 until the pressure overcomes the bias of the spring 128 and the air pressure in the tire 200 acting through the valve 30 . normally , this pressure is selected to be approximately one - third of the pressure in the tire 200 , but the valve 30 can be set to operate at alternative pressures depending upon the particular use to which the valve 30 is put . once the pressure in the upper end 36 reaches this point , the pressure presses downwardly on the piston 112 , causing the piston 112 and valve stem 122 to move downwardly with respect to the bushing 104 , valve seat 82 and main body 32 . sufficient movement of the piston 112 due to the air pressure in the upper end 36 above the piston 112 disengages the stem flange 124 from the sealing flange 94 , allowing air to flow around the stem flange 124 and into the tire 200 through the air outlet shafts 44 , as shown in fig5 . once the desired air pressure for the tire 200 has been reached and sensed by the central tire inflation system , the air flow to the valve 30 through the air inlet shafts 38 is stopped , allowing the spring 128 to re - engage the stem flange 124 with the sealing flange 94 and maintain the desired pressure in the tire 200 . the valve 30 may also include a suitable venting member ( not shown ) to enable the valve 30 to eliminate any backpressure in the valve 30 that occurs during the operation of the valve 30 . referring now to fig3 a , 3 b and 21 , another embodiment of the valve 230 is illustrated . the valve 230 is formed similarly to the valve 30 illustrated and discussed previously , with the same general configuration as the previous embodiment , including the main body 32 ′ the valve seat 82 ′ and the cap 70 ′. however , the valve seat 82 ′ is modified to eliminate the air flow passages 98 and to include a pair of sealing members 232 and 234 disposed on the exterior of the valve seat 82 ′ within grooves 236 . the sealing members 232 and 234 are preferably low friction seals and extend around the valve seat 82 ′ in the grooves 236 generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the valve seat 82 ′ and function to provide an air - tight seal between the valve seat 82 ′ and the upper end 36 ′ of the main body 32 ′. thus , no air flow occurs between the main body 32 ′ and the valve seat 82 ′ as in the previous embodiment . to provide the air flow to the top of the valve body 82 ′ that acts on the piston 112 ′, the valve stem 122 ′ is formed with an internal passage 238 that extends from the end of the stem 122 ′ located within the piston 112 ′ along the center of the stem 122 ′ to a point spaced from the stem flange 124 ′ an generally in at least partial alignment with the air flow tubes 88 ′ in the lower end of the valve seat 82 ′. at this point , the passage 238 communicates with a bore 240 extending into the stem 122 ′ generally perpendicular to the passage 238 , which allows air flow from the tubes 88 ′ to pass through the bore 240 and into the passage 238 . the air then flows up through the passage 238 to the upper end of the stem 122 ′ into the space between the piston 112 ′ and the cap 70 ′ to provide the motive force on the piston 112 ′. this air flow through the stem 122 ′ operates to move the piston 112 ′ against the bias of a spring 128 ′, as in the previous embodiment . however , the spring 128 has been moved from the central chamber 42 ′ in the lower end 34 ′ of the main body 32 ′. in this embodiment , the spring 128 ′ is disposed within the chamber 96 ′ of the valve seat 82 ′ between the lower end of the piston 112 ′ and the lower end 86 ′ of the valve seat 82 ′. the spring 128 ′ is positioned around the bushing 104 ′ and urges the piston 112 ′ towards the cap 70 ′. in this location , the spring 128 ′ is positioned within the valve 230 such that the spring 128 ′ can be removed with the other moving parts of the valve 230 disposed within the main body 32 ′ when the components are to be replaced . the removal of the spring 128 ′ from the lower end 34 ′ of the main body 32 ′ also allows for a greater amount of air flow through the lower end 34 ′, because the spring 128 ′ is no longer present to obstruct this air flow . in this embodiment , the stem flange 124 ′ on the valve stem 122 ′ is also modified to include an upwardly extending peripheral tab 242 , as opposed to the simple circular flange 124 ′ in the previous embodiment . this tab 242 is pulled into positive sealing engagement with the lower side of the seal 94 ′ by the spring 128 ′, and provides a secure air - tight seal until actuation of the valve 230 . additionally , to address the problem of backpressure within the valve 30 ′, the upper end 36 ′ of the main body 32 ′ includes a bore 244 that is extends through the screw thread 54 ′ on the upper end 36 ′, but that is covered by the cap 70 ′ when the cap 70 ′ is engaged with the thread 54 ′. this bore 244 communicates with an aperture 246 formed in the upper end 86 ′ of the valve seat 82 ′ that communicates with the central chamber 96 ′ in the valve seat 82 ′ and functions as a vent to reduce any back pressure present within the valve 230 during operation , by allowing the pressurized air to escape the valve 230 through the clearance between the threads 54 ′ on the main body 32 ′ and 76 ′ on the cap 70 ′. in addition to the description of the previous embodiments , the wheel assembly 1000 and valve 30 of the present invention can also be modified in various manners to provide added functionality to the assembly 1000 and valve 30 . for example , the upper end 36 of the main body 32 and the upper end 86 of the valve seat 82 can be chamfered to enable the components of the valve 30 to be assembled and disassembled more easily . also , the various structural components of the valve 30 can be formed from any suitable fluid - impervious material , such as a metal or hard plastic , to reduce the overall weight of the valve 30 . various alternatives are contemplated as being within the scope of the following claims , particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter regarded as the invention . | US-68030307-A |
disclosed is a holder for an electronic device used in carrying a small electronic device while attaching it to a wearing belt or cloth , the holder having : a base provided with one surface for holding the electronic device and another surface including bearing parts and a flexible springy movable part ; and a clip provided with rotation shafts to be fitted into the bearing parts and a concave part to be engaged with a tip of the flexible springy movable part . | before explaining a holder for an electronic device in the preferred embodiments , the aforementioned conventional holder for an electronic device will be explained in fig1 . as shown , the holder comprises a holder main body 60 for holding an electronic device and a flexible clip 50 that is of synthetic resin and is molded with fulcrum shafts 51 . the clip 50 is detachably engaged to the holder main body 60 by fitting its fulcrum shafts 51 into shaft holes 61 provided on the holder main body 60 . in use , the clip 50 is bent to increase the clearance between the holder main body and the clip 50 , then inserted to sandwich a cloth end or a belt between the holder main body and the clip 50 . next , a holder for an electronic device in the first preferred embodiment will be explained in fig2 , 4a to 4d and 6 . fig2 is a broken perspective view showing a holder in the first embodiment , where a clip 30 is separated from a base 20 and is shown turned inside out . fig3 is a perspective view showing the state that the clip 30 is attached to the base 20 . fig4 a to 4d are cross sectional views showing the engaging states between the base 20 and the clip 30 . meanwhile , fig4 a is a cross sectional view cut along the line a -- a in fig3 fig4 b is a cross sectional view cut along the line b -- b in fig3 and fig4 c and 4d are cross sectional views cut along the line c -- c in fig3 . fig6 is a perspective view showing the state that the holder in the first embodiment is attached to an electronic device 11 . the holder in the first embodiment , as shown in fig2 comprises the base 20 by which an electronic device can be easily detachably held and the clip 30 that can be easily attached to the base 20 . the clip 30 , which has a rectangular form , is provided with a bend 31 on its one end in the longitudinal direction , a concave part 32 with a predetermined length and depth to be formed in the lateral direction , a pair of arms 33 with symmetrical mountain shapes to be formed on both ends in the lateral direction , and cylindrical rotation shafts 34 that are formed symmetrically and coaxially protruding by a predetermined length from the tips of the arms 33 in the lateral direction . the base 20 is provided with a flexible springy movable part 21 to energize the clip 30 and bearing parts 23 to hold the rotation shafts 34 at the upper part of its clip - mounting surface , provided with a bend 27 to prevent an electronic device from falling at its bottom , provided with holding parts 25 , 26 to hold the electronic device at its top and both sides , respectively . the holder is assembled by sliding and inserting the rotation shafts 34 of the clip 30 ( while pressing the clip 30 against the base 20 ) into the bearing parts 23 of the base 20 until a convex part 22 ( i . e ., bent part ) formed on the end of the springy movable part 21 of the base 20 is fitted in and engaged with the concave part 32 of the clip 30 . the bearing part 23 is provided with a through - hole 24 on the side of the base 20 so as not to cause an undercut state in molding . when the clip 30 is mounted on the base 20 , a contact surface 28 of the rotation shaft 34 with the bearing part 23 , as shown in fig4 a , becomes a quarter of the circumference of the rotation shaft 34 . thus , the rotation shaft 34 contacts the bearing part 23 in the range of an arc 29 . meanwhile , the base 20 is formed using cutting dies ( male / female dies ) in the direction of arrows x , x &# 39 ; ( fig2 ) and using a cutting die ( slide die ) in the direction of arrows y , y &# 39 ; ( fig2 ) to form the holding part 26 . thus , the bearing part 23 is formed using the cutting dies in the direction of the arrows x , x &# 39 ;. an electronic device can be inserted into the holder while pressing and bending the holding part 25 at the top of the base 20 . the base 20 can be easily bent in inserting the electronic device because it is made of a flexible material , e . g ., synthetic resin . in mounting the clip 30 on the base 20 , the rotation shaft 34 of the clip 30 is fitted into the bearing part 23 of the base 20 and then the clip 30 is slid in the longitudinal direction orthogonal to the rotation shafts 34 while pressing the clip 30 . at this time , the springy movable part 21 interferes with the inner surface of the clip 30 and the tip portion is thereby bent to energize the clip 30 . this energizing forces presses the upper end of the clip , above the rotation shaft 34 , and gives such tension that the lower end of the clip 30 is always pressed against the surface of the base 20 . thus , as shown in fig4 c , the bend 31 of the clip 30 abuts on the base 20 . also , when the rotation shaft 34 of the clip 30 is fitted into the bearing part 23 of the base 20 , the convex part 22 at the tip of the springy movable part 21 is fitted into and engaged with the concave part 32 of the clip 30 . also , the energizing of the springy movable part 21 to the clip 30 is supported by the bearing part 23 . therefore , the clip 30 can be mounted on the base 20 only by applying force against frictional force in the direction of the arrow y &# 39 ;. due to the engagement of the rotation shaft 34 with the bearing part 23 , the movement of the clip 30 in the directions of the arrows x , x &# 39 ; and y &# 39 ; is restricted . adding to this restriction , due to the engagement of the convex part 22 at the tip of the springy movable part 21 with the concave part 32 of the clip 30 , the movement of the clip 30 in the direction of the arrow y is also restricted since the variation of the springy movable part 21 in the up and down ( y - y &# 39 ;) directions in bending is so small . therefore , after the clip 30 is mounted on the base 20 , the center of the rotation shaft 34 of the clip 30 always coincides with the center of the bearing part 23 . thus , the clip 30 can conduct only the rotational movement , as shown in fig4 d . also , the engagement of the convex part 22 at the tip of the springy movable part 21 with the concave part 32 of the clip 30 can be kept unless the springy movable part 21 behind the clip 30 is intentionally bent . namely , in the range of normal clipping operations , the clip 30 can be prevented from detaching from the base 20 . in attaching the holder to a belt , the clip 30 is raised against the tension to the clip 30 , putting down the holder to sandwich the belt between the clip 30 and the base 20 . thereby , the holder with an electronic device can be attached to the belt . in detaching the holder from the belt , the clip 30 is raised against the tension to the clip 30 , pulling up the holder from the belt . next , a holder for an electronic device in the second preferred embodiment according to the invention will be explained in fig5 referring to fig2 and 3 . fig5 is a cross sectional view , which is cut along the line a -- a as in fig3 showing the engaging state of the rotation shaft 34 of the clip 30 with the bearing part 23 of the base 20 . the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment only about the structure of the bearing part 23 of the base 20 and its molding method . therefore , the explanations of the other common components are omitted herein . in the first embodiment , the bearing part 23 of the base 20 can be formed using the cutting dies ( male and female dies ) not to make an undercut shape . however , in the second embodiment , an undercut shape can be formed using a slide die etc . as a cutting die . thereby , the bearing part 23 can be formed into u - shaped in section , as shown in fig5 . due to the u - shaped bearing part 23 , the contact surface of the rotation shaft 34 with the bearing part 23 , as shown in fig5 becomes a half of the circumference of the rotation shaft 34 . as a result , the restriction surface of the rotation shaft 34 can be increased , thereby smoothing the rotation of the clip 30 . as described above , in the first and second embodiments , the clip can conduct only the rotational movement around the rotation shafts on the base due to the engagement of the bearing parts with the rotation shafts and the engagement of the convex part of the flexible springy movable part with the concave part of the clip . also , the energizing to the clip ( clipping force ) can be generated by the bending of the flexible springy movable part that occurs fulcruming one end of the flexible springy movable part connected with the base when the clip is mounted on the base , without using the spring force of the clip itself . therefore , the rigidity of the clip itself can be considered separating from the spring force of the springy movable part . both the clip - operating force ( in opening / closing ) and the clipping force can be designed to be optimum values . thus , the holder of the embodiments can satisfy both easiness in attaching / detaching and high clipping force . also , the clip can be firmly held by the bearing parts against pulling force applied to the clip to separate from the base because the bearing parts have a bag - like shape formed connecting with the base . also , in the first embodiment , the bearing part can be formed by using only the male / female cutting dies , without using the slide die . the formation time is reduced by that much , and the cost of cutting dies can be reduced . thus , the total manufacturing cost can be reduced . also , by only sliding and inserting the rotation shafts into the bearing parts of the base , the restriction to the rotation shafts , the energizing to the clip and the locking of the clip can be easily completed at the same time . although the invention has been described with respect to specific embodiment for complete and clear disclosure , the appended claims are not to be thus limited but are to be construed as embodying all modification and alternative constructions that may occur to one skilled in the art which fairly fall within the basic teaching here is set forth . | US-14132598-A |
this invention relates to a new and useful improvement in synthesizing crystalline zsm - 5 zeolite and to use of said zeolite prepared in accordance herewith as a catalyst for hydrocarbon conversions . the synthesis utilizes dimethylethylpropylammonium ion as the directing agent . | zsm - 5 can suitably be prepared in accordance with the novel process of this invention by preparing a solution containing the dimethylethylpropylammonium halide salt , previously referred to , sodium oxide , an oxide of silica , and optionally , an oxide of alumina and water , the solution having a composition in terms of mole ratios within the following ranges : ______________________________________ broad preferred______________________________________sio . sub . 2 / al . sub . 2 o . sub . 3 20 - infinity 30 - 50 , 000oh . sup .- / sio . sub . 2 0 . 05 - 0 . 4 0 . 1 - 0 . 35h . sub . 2 o / oh . sup .- 50 - 400 70 - 300q /( q + m ) 0 . 05 - 0 . 95 0 . 1 - 0 . 9______________________________________ wherein q is a cation derived from a dimethylethylpropylammonium salt and m is an alkali metal ion , and maintaining the mixture until crystals of the crystalline zeolite zsm - 5 are formed . a less preferred range for the mole ratio of silica to alumina is 20 to 100 , 000 . thereafter , the crystals are separated from the liquid and recovered . reaction conditions required consist of heating the foregoing reaction mixture to a temperature of from about 120 ° c . to about 200 ° c . for a period of time of from about 48 hours to about 20 days . a more preferred temperature range is from about 130 ° c . to about 180 ° c . with the amount of time at a temperature in such range being from about 72 hours to about 15 days . the digestion of the gel particles is carried out until the gel has disappeared . the solid product is separated from the reaction medium , as by cooling the whole to room temperature , filtering and water washing . zeolite zsm - 5 possesses a definite distinguishing crystalline structure whose x - ray diffraction pattern shows the following significant lines : table i______________________________________interplanar spacing d ( a ) relative intensity______________________________________11 . 1 ± 0 . 3 s10 . 0 ± 0 . 3 s7 . 4 ± 0 . 2 w7 . 1 ± 0 . 2 w6 . 3 ± 0 . 2 w6 . 04 ± 0 . 2 w5 . 56 ± 0 . 1 w5 . 01 ± 0 . 1 w4 . 60 ± 0 . 08 w4 . 25 ± 0 . 08 w3 . 85 ± 0 . 07 vs3 . 71 ± 0 . 05 s3 . 04 ± 0 . 03 w2 . 99 ± 0 . 02 w2 . 94 ± 0 . 02 w______________________________________ these values were determined by standard technique . the radiation was the k - alpha doublet of copper , and a scintillation counter spectrometer with a strip chart pen recorder was used . the peak heights , i , and the positions as a function of 2 times theta , where theta is the bragg angle , were read from the spectrometer chart . from these , the relative intensities , 100i / i o , where i o is the intensity of the strongest line or peak , and d ( obs ), the interplanar spacing in a , corresponding to the recorded lines , were calculated . in table i the relative intensities are given in terms of the symbols w = weak , s = strong and vs = very strong . it should be understood that this x - ray diffraction pattern is characteristic of all the species of zsm - 5 zeolites . ion exchange of the sodium ion with cations reveals substantially the same pattern with some minor shifts in interplanar spacing and variation in relative intensity . other minor variations can occur depending on the silicon to aluminum ratio of the particular sample , as well as if it has been subjected to thermal treatment . the composition for the synthesis of zsm - 5 can be prepared utilizing materials which can supply the appropriate oxide . such materials include aluminates , alumina , silicates , silica hydrosol , silica gel , silicic acid and hydroxides . it will be understood that each oxide component utilized in the reaction mixture for preparing zsm - 5 can be supplied by one or more essential reactants and they can be mixed together in any order . for example , any oxide can be supplied by an aqueous solution , sodium hydroxide or by an aqueous solution of a suitable silicate . the reaction mixture can be prepared either batchwise or continuously . the zsm - 5 composition as prepared hereby has the characteristic x - ray diffraction pattern of conventionally prepared zsm - 5 , the values of which are set forth in table 1 . even though the presently prepared zsm - 5 can often have a low amount of alkali metal , e . g . sodium , ions , as synthesized , and therefore can be utilized as catalytic material for a number of hydrocarbon conversion reactions substantially as synthesized , the original cations of the as - synthesized zsm - 5 can be replaced in accordance with techniques well known in the art , at least in part , by ion exchange with other cations . preferred replacing cations include metal ions , ammonium ions , hydrogen ions and mixtures thereof . particularly preferred cations are those which render the zeolite catalytically active especially for hydrocarbon conversion . these include hydrogen , rare earth metals , aluminum metals of groups iia , iiib , ivb , vib , viii , ib iib , iia , iva . of the replacing metallic cations , particular preference is given to cations of metals such as rare earth , mn , ca , mg , zn , cd , pd , ni , co , ti , al , sn , fe and co . a typical ion exchange technique would be to contact the synthetic zsm - 5 zeolite with a solution of a salt of the desired replacing cation or cations . the zsm - 5 zeolite has been previously activated by calcining it in an inert atmosphere , such as nitrogen , at a temperature of 400 ° c . to 800 ° c . although a wide variety of salts can be employed , particular preference is given to chlorides , nitrates and sulfates . representative ion exchange techniques are disclosed in a wide variety of patents , including u . s . pat . nos . 3 , 140 , 249 ; 3 , 140 , 251 and 3 , 140 , 253 . following contact with the salt solution of the desired replacing cation , the zeolite is then preferably washed with water and dried at a temperature ranging from 150 ° f . to about 600 ° f . and thereafter may be calcined in air or other inert gas at temperatures ranging from about 500 ° f . to 1500 ° f . for periods of time ranging from 1 to 48 hours or more to produce a catalytically - active thermal decomposition product thereof . regardless of the cation replacing the cations in the as - synthesized form of zsm - 5 , the spatial arrangement of the aluminum , silicon and oxygen atoms which form the basic crystal lattices of zsm - 5 remains essentially unchanged by the described replacement of the original cations as determined by taking an x - ray powder diffraction pattern of the ion exchanged material . the hereby prepared zeolite zsm - 5 can be used in the conversion of a wide variety of organic compounds , e . g . hydrocarbon compounds and oxygenates such as methanol . such processes include , for example , alkylation of aromatics with olefins , aromatization of normally gaseous olefins and paraffins , aromatization of normally liquid low molecular weight paraffins and olefins , isomerization of aromatics , paraffins and olefins , disproportionation of aromatics , transalkylation of aromatics , oligomerization of olefins and cracking and hydrocracking . all of the foregoing catalytic processes are of value since they result in upgrading of the organic charge being processed with methanol , selective toluene disproportionation , methanol to gasoline and p - ethyltoluene production . selectivity gains in these processes result from the conversion of an undesirable , diffusionally limited intracrystalline product to a smaller , more desirable product whch leaves the crystal more readily with less chance of further reaction . further reaction is limited by the more diffusionally restrictive large crystal zsm - 5 . in the case of many catalysts , it is desired to incorporate the zsm - 5 hereby prepared with another material resistant to the temperatures and other conditions employed in organic conversion processes . such matrix materials include active and inactive materials and synthetic or naturally occurring zeolites as well as inorganic materials such as clays , silica and / or metal oxides . the latter may be either naturally occurring or in the form of gelatinous precipitates , sols or gels including mixtures of silica and metal oxides . use of a material in conunction with the zsm - 5 , i . e . combined therewith , which is active , tends to improve the conversion and / or selectivity of the catalyst in certain organic conversion processes . inactive materials suitably serve as diluents to control the amount of conversion in a given process so that products can be obtained economically and orderly without employing other means for controlling the rate of reaction . frequently , zeolite materials have been incorporated into naturally occurring clays , e . g . bentonite and kaoline . these materials , i . e . clays , oxides , etc ., function , in part , as binders for the catalyst . it is desirable to provide a catalyst having good crush strength , because in a petroleum refinery the catalyst is often subjected to rough handling , which tends to break the catalyst down into power - like materials which cause problems in processing . naturally occurring clays which may be composited with the hereby synthesized zsm - 5 catalyst include the montmorillonite and kaoline family , which families include the sub - bentonites , and the kaolines commonly known as dixie , mcnamee , georgia and florida clays or others in which the main mineral constituent is halloysite , kaolinite , dickite , nacrite , or anuaxite . such clays can be used in the raw state or initially subjected to calcination , acid treatment or chemical modification . in addition to the foregoing materials , the zsm - 5 catalyst hereby synthesized can be composited with a porous matrix material such as silica - alumina , silica - magnesia , silica - zirconia , silica - thoria , silica - beryllia , silica - titania as well as ternary compositions such as silica - alumina - thoria , silica - alumina - zirconia , silica - alumina - magnesia and silica - magnesia - zirconia . the matrix can be in the form of a cogel . a mixture of these components could also be used . the relative proportions of finely divided crystalline aluminosilicate zsm - 5 and inorganic oxide gel matrix vary widely with the crystalline aluminosilicate content ranging from about 1 to about 90 percent by weight and more usually in the range of about 10 to about 70 percent by weight of the composite . the following examples will illustrate the novel process of this invention . aluminum nitrate , al ( no 3 ) 3 . 9h 2 o , ( 1 . 6 grams ), was dissolved in 163 grams of water ; a 51 . 8 % solution of dimethylethylpropylammonium bromide , ( 35 . 1 grams ), was added , as was subsequently a solution of 5 . 0 grams of naoh pellets in 50 grams of water . finally , 48 grams of a commercial precipitated silica containing about 10 % water , 87 % silica ( sio 2 ) and 0 . 5 % alumina ( al 2 o 3 ) was added . the reaction mixture was heated at 150 ° c . for 12 days to effect crystallization . the reaction mixture composition can be summarized as follows in terms of mole ratios : the crystalline product was filtered , washed with water and dried at ambient temperature . it displayed the x - ray diffraction pattern of zsm - 5 of 60 % crystallinity when compared with a reference sample . the sorption capacities , in grams / 100 grams at 25 ° c ., were : sodium hydroxide , ( 3 . 1 grams ), was dissolved in 60 . 6 grams of water . a 51 . 8 % solution of dimethylethylpropylammonium bromide , ( 42 . 4 grams ) was added , followed by 100 grams of colloidal silica sol ( 30 % sio 2 ). the mixture was digested at ambient temperature for 24 hours and then heated at 150 ° c . for 9 days . the composition of the reaction mixture in terms of mol ratios can be summarized as follows : the crystalline product was filtered , washed with water and dried at ambient temperature . it showed an x - ray diffraction pattern of zsm - 5 of 85 % crystallinity , when compared with a reference sample . the sorption capacities , in grams / 100 grams at 25 ° c ., were : | US-60657084-A |
the invention relates to a rubber additive composition which contains at least one rubber additive , the at least one additive being encased in coating material accompanied by formation of microcapsules . the additive can in particular be sulphur or another vulcanization agent , a vulcanization accelerator and / or activator . | the invention is illustrated in the following with reference to embodiments . mbt powder customary in the trade was first ground to an average particle size of 5 μm in an impact mill . the obtained fine powder was melted together in the weight ratio 7 : 3 with polyethylene wax having a molar mass of roughly 1600 g / mol ( vestowax a 616 , trade product of the company hüls ag ) having a melting point of roughly 125 ° c . and passed at 135 ° c . onto a rotary table which atomized the material in a cooling tower . apart from the desired microcapsules of roughly 5 μm diameter , finer particles of polyethylene wax were also obtained which were separated via a cyclone and returned to the process . 1 . 0 kg mbts powder customary in the trade from the company flexsys , brussels having an average particle size of 5 . 3 μm were heated accompanied by stirring to 70 ° c . with addition of 0 . 05 kg of an alkylbenzene sulphonate as surfactant ( marion a 365 , anionic surfactant of the company hüls ag ) and 2 . 0 kg water in v4a stirrer with anchor stirrer and added to 1 . 0 kg of a solution heated to 70 ° c . of 0 . 28 kg polyethylene wax having a molar mass of roughly 1600 g / mol ( vestowax a 616 , low - molecular - weight low - pressure polyethylene of the company hüls ag , melting point 125 ° c .) in cyclohexane . n - heptane can also be used as an alternative to cyclohexane . the obtained dispersion was cooled to 20 ° c . accompanied by intensive stirring , the microcapsules according to the invention forming around the individual accelerator crystals . the isolation of the end - product took place through spray - drying in a conventional fluidized - bed dryer , such as is supplied for example by the company glatt ag , d - 79859 binzen . 1 . 24 kg of microencapsulated accelerator were obtained , which corresponds to a yield of 93 %. the accelerator content was 75 . 1 wt .-%. accelerators and vulcanization agents which are not prepared by precipitation processes in aqueous suspension can advantageously be converted into microcapsules by the following process . the particles ground to an average grain size of 5 μm by suitable grinding , e . g . in impact mills , optionally under protective gas such as nitrogen , were suspended in a saturated solution of pe wax with a melting point of 125 ° c . in n - heptane and , after thorough mixing , subjected to a spray - drying , the microcapsules according to the invention forming in the process . this method is suitable for all accelerators and vulcanization agents which , because of their polar chemical structure , dissolve only minimally or not at all in n - heptane . cyclohexane can also be advantageously used . 3 . 00 kg of ground sulphur customary in the trade were introduced into a 10 - 1 pressure reactor made from v4a steel with 6 . 55 kg tap water , 0 . 15 kg of an alkylbenzene sulphonate ( marion a 365 , anionic surfactant from the company hüls ag ), 0 . 15 kg of a naphthalene sulphonic acid condensation product ( tamol ® nn 9104 , rubber - compatible surfactant or dispersion auxiliary from the company basf ag ) and 0 . 30 kg polyvinyl alcohol ( mowiol 8 - 88 , trade product from the company clariant , d - 65926 frankfurt ) and homogenized by stirring with the incorporated anchor stirrer . the reactor was heated with steam to a temperature of 128 ° c . it was observed through the fitted inspection glass that the sulphur had melted after roughly 30 minutes at a steam pressure measured in the boiler of 2 . 6 bar . after a further 10 minutes &# 39 ; stirring and pumping round via a rotor - stator mixer ( dispax ) the resultant emulsion was atomized via a heated line in a fluidized - bed spray - dryer which was operated in the circulating - air system with nitrogen heated to 70 ° c . after roughly 50 minutes the spraying process was ended . because of the evaporation of the water , the temperature in the spent air fell to 58 to 60 ° c . the obtained product was a fine yellow - brown powder . the yield was 2 . 37 kg , which is equivalent to 66 %. the sulphur content of the product was 81 wt .-%. 3 . 00 kg ground sulphur customary in the trade were introduced into a 10 - 1 pressure reactor made from v4a steel with 6 . 55 kg tap water , 0 . 15 kg of an alkylbenzene sulphonate ( marlon a 365 , anionic surfactant from the company hüls ag ), 0 . 15 kg of a naphthalene sulphonic acid condensation product ( tamol ® nn 9104 , rubber - compatible surfactant or dispersion auxiliary from the company basf ag ) and 0 . 30 kg of a polyethylene wax with a molar mass of roughly 1600 g / mol ( vestowax a 616 , low - molecular - weight low - pressure polyethylene from the company hüls ag ) with a melting point of roughly 125 ° c . and homogenized by stirring with the incorporated anchor stirrer . the reactor was heated with steam to a temperature of 128 ° c . it was observed through the fitted inspection glass that the sulphur had melted after roughly 30 minutes at a steam pressure measured in the boiler of 2 . 6 bar . after a further 10 minutes &# 39 ; stirring and pumping round via a rotor - stator mixer ( dispax ) the resultant emulsion was atomized via a heated line in a fluidized - bed spray - dryer which was operated in the circulating - air system with nitrogen heated to 70 ° c . after roughly 50 minutes the spraying process was ended . because of the evaporation of the water , the temperature in the spent air fell to 58 to 60 ° c . the obtained product was a fine yellow - brown powder . the yield was 2 . 27 kg , which is equivalent to 63 %. the sulphur content of the product was 82 wt .-%. the microcapsules prepared according to any one of the previous examples were converted in a further step of the method in a fluidized - bed reactor ( 2 . 27 kg microencapsulated additive ) by spraying 0 . 227 kg of a low - melting , wax - like substance such as pentaerythritoltetra - stearate or mineral oil , the initially obtained powder was converted from microcapsules into beads 0 . 1 to 10 mm in size . these practically no longer contained any dust , were free - flowing and were thus able to be weighed automatically . because of the low melting point of the waxy substance which holds the beads together , the microcapsules were released again in their original form during the following incorporation into rubber mixtures . | US-55515100-A |
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