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TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to a backlight unit that supplies light to a liquid crystal display panel or the like, and also relates to a liquid crystal display device that incorporates such a backlight unit. BACKGROUND ART [0002] Conventionally, liquid crystal display devices incorporating a non-luminous liquid crystal display panel also incorporate a backlight unit that supplies light to the liquid crystal display panel. Such a backlight unit is expected to shine light as perpendicularly as possible into the liquid crystal display panel. The reason is that if too much light shines obliquely into the liquid crystal display panel, diminished or uneven brightness may result. [0003] Typically, light from a light source is introduced into a single, plate-shaped light guide plate through an edge face thereof so that the light undergoes multiple reflection inside so as to eventually exit from the light guide plate through a top face thereof. In this case, inconveniently, it is difficult to make the light exit perpendicularly to the top face. Accordingly, it is difficult to make the light enter perpendicularly the liquid crystal display panel, which is disposed to cover the top face. [0004] One modern solution is to use a light guide plate 111 that, as shown in FIG. 7 , has a diffraction grating dg which makes light from a light source 122 exit in desired directions through the top face 111 U (dash-and-dot-line arrows represent light). With this structure, the diffraction-transmitted light, that is, the light that is transmitted through the diffraction grating dg, is so controlled as to propagate in desired directions. It should be noted here that the diffraction grating dg has a dispersive (spectroscopic) effect, making light in different wavelength bands propagate in different directions. [0005] As a result, as shown in FIG. 7 , the diffraction grating dg splits light of different colors, such as blue (B), green (G), and red (R), in different directions. Inconveniently, this causes the light (backlight) exiting from the light guide plate 111 through the top face thereof 111 U to appear not white light but split overall. This degrades the display quality on the liquid crystal display panel that receives that light. [0006] To prevent backlight from being split in that way, in the backlight unit disclosed in Patent Document 1, as shown in FIG. 8 , the diffraction-reflected light drB, drG, and drR, that is, the light directly reflected from the diffraction grating dg, is mixed with the diffraction-transmitted light dpB, dpG, and dpR, that is, the light that is transmitted through the diffraction grating dg and then reflected from a reflective sheet 142 back into the diffraction grating dg. This reduces the splitting of backlight. The principle exploited here is that the diffraction grating dg exerts opposite dispersive effects on the diffraction-reflected light and the diffraction-transmitted light. [0007] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8 , between the diffraction-reflected light drB, drG, and drR, which is colored such as blue (B), green (G), and red (R), and the diffraction-transmitted light dpB, dpG, and dpR, which is likewise colored such as blue (B), green (G), and red (R), the diffraction-reflected light drB mixes with the diffraction-transmitted light dpR, the diffraction-reflected light drG mixes with the diffraction-transmitted light dpG, and the diffraction-reflected light drR mixes with the diffraction-transmitted light dpB. [0008] Backlight produced in this way by mixing together light in oppositely dispersed states is less unnecessarily colored than backlight obtained from a light guide plate 111 including a diffraction grating dg with no special measure taken. List of Citations Patent Literature [0009] Patent Document 1: JP-2006-120521 (paragraphs [0030], [0031]; FIG. 3) SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Technical Problem [0010] Disadvantageously, a closer study on the backlight emitted from the backlight unit disclosed in Patent Document 1 reveals the following: as shown in FIG. 8 , the mixing of the diffraction-reflected light drB with the diffraction-transmitted light dpR produces mixed light with a violet tinge, the mixing of the diffraction-reflected light drG with the diffraction-transmitted light dpG produces mixed light with a green tinge, and the mixing of the diffraction-reflected light drR with the diffraction-transmitted light dpB produces mixed light with a violet tinge. [0011] That is, the backlight from the backlight unit disclosed in Patent Document 1 contains violet- and green-tinged light, and thus cannot be said to be light with a satisfactorily high degree of whiteness. [0012] The present invention has been made against this background, and an object of the invention is to provide a backlight unit that, even when comprising a light guide plate including a diffraction grating, produces light with a comparatively high degree of whiteness, and to provide a liquid crystal display device incorporating such a backlight unit. Solution to the Problem [0013] According to one aspect of the invention, a backlight unit includes: a light source; and a light guide plate receiving light from the light source and making the light exit by subjecting the light to multiple reflection. The face of the light guide plate through which the light guide plate receives the light is called the light-receiving face, the face of the light guide plate through which the light exits is called the light-exit face, and the face of the light guide plate opposite from the light-exit face is called the bottom face. [0014] On the light-exit face, a diffraction grating is formed that includes at least three grating ridge groups having grating ridges arranged with different periods respectively, and the three grating ridge groups correspond to light in different wavelength bands respectively. Moreover, the grating ridge groups diffraction-reflect, out of light in corresponding particular wavelength bands, only light incident thereon at incidence angles within a particular range such that the light returns to the side from which the light propagates. On the other hand, on the bottom face, a refractive optical element is formed that reflects toward the light-exit face the light thus diffraction-reflected so as to return. [0015] With this structure, the three grating ridge groups so act that part of the light that has not been totally reflected on the light-exit face, that is, the light reaching them in corresponding particular wavelength bands at incidence angles within a particular range is diffraction-reflected in a particular direction (in such a way that the light returns to the side from which it propagates). Thus, the diffraction-reflected light in specific wavelength bands propagates while keeping comparatively high directivity; in addition, since the directivity here is uniform, the light mixes to a comparatively high degree. [0016] Accordingly, when the light diffraction-reflected here is, for example, light in wavelength bands corresponding to the three primary colors of light, the mixed light is high-quality white light. To achieve that, it is preferable that, of the three grating ridge groups, one be a blue-light grating ridge group corresponding to a wavelength band of blue light, one be a green-light grating ridge group corresponding to a wavelength band of green light, and one be a red-light grating ridge group corresponding to a wavelength band of red light. [0017] In addition, when diffraction-reflected light of different colors is reflected by the refractive optical element, for example, perpendicularly to the light-exit face, the light reaching the light-exit face then continues to exit perpendicularly to the light-exit face. This increase in the amount of light traveling perpendicularly to the light-exit face of the light guide plate eliminates the need for the backlight unit to include a lens sheet for condensing light. [0018] It is preferable that the blue-, green-, and red-light grating ridge groups fulfill equation (M1) below: [0000] d=λ/ (2· nd. sin θ)  Equation (M1) [0000] where nd represents the refractive index, for the d-line, of the material of which the diffraction grating is formed; d represents the grating period of grating ridges that diffract light in the grating ridge groups; λ represents the wavelength of light; and θ represents the angle at which the incidence angle of light incident on the diffraction grating coincides with the reflection angle of diffraction-reflected light derived from the incident light. [0023] It is preferable that the grating ridges have a height of 500 nm or more but 1000 nm or less. [0024] It is preferable that, in addition, equations (C1) and (C2) below be fulfilled: [0000] γ=θ±Δ  Equation (C1) [0000] γ+2·δ A+ 2·δ B= 180°  Equation (C2) [0000] where Δ(°) represents the angle, in the range of 0°<Δ<10°, within which diffraction-reflected light is produced with diffraction efficiency equal to or more than 0.5 times the diffraction efficiency of diffraction-reflected light at θ; γ(°) is the sum of or difference between θ and Δ, and represents the reflection angle at which diffraction-reflected light is produced with diffraction efficiency equal to or more than 0.5 times the diffraction efficiency of the diffraction-reflected light at θ; δA(°) represents, assuming that the refractive optical element is a triangular prism protruding from the bottom face to form two angles with respect thereto, whichever of those two angles is farther away from the light source; and δB(°) represents, assuming that the refractive optical element is a triangular prism protruding from the bottom face to form two angles with respect thereto, whichever of those two angles is closer to the light source. [0029] To maximize the amount of light exiting perpendicularly to the light-exit face, it is preferable that the backlight unit fulfill equation (C3) below: [0000] δA<5°  Condition (C3) [0030] According to another aspect of the invention, a liquid crystal display device includes: a backlight unit as described above; and a liquid crystal display panel receiving light from the backlight unit. Advantageous Effects of the Invention [0031] According to the present invention, it is possible, by use of a diffraction grating formed on the light-exit face of a light guide plate and a refractive optical element formed on the bottom face of the light guide plate, to make high-quality white light exit perpendicularly to the light-exit face. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0032] FIG. 1 is a sectional view of the backlight unit included in the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. 2 , as cut along line A-A′ and seen from the direction indicated by arrows. [0033] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a liquid crystal display device. [0034] FIG. 3A is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 470 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 170 nm. [0035] FIG. 3B is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 470 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 200 nm. [0036] FIG. 3C is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 470 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 230 nm. [0037] FIG. 4A is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 550 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 170 nm. [0038] FIG. 4B is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 550 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 200 nm. [0039] FIG. 4C is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 550 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 230 nm. [0040] FIG. 5A is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 620 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 170 nm. [0041] FIG. 5B is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 620 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 200 nm. [0042] FIG. 5C is a polar coordinate diagram showing the behavior of reflected light when light with a wavelength of 620 nm is incident on a grating ridge group having grating ridges with a height of 300 nm densely arranged with a grating period of 230 nm. [0043] FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of the light guide plate shown in FIG. 1 . [0044] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a light guide plate and a light source incorporated in a conventional backlight unit. [0045] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a light guide plate, a light source, and a reflective sheet incorporated in a conventional backlight unit different from the one shown in FIG. 7 . DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Embodiment 1 [0046] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. For convenience' sake, hatching, reference signs, etc. do not necessarily appear in all relevant drawings, in which case reference is to be made to those drawings in which they appear. A solid black dot in a drawing indicates the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper. [0047] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a liquid crystal display device 69 . As shown there, the liquid crystal display device 69 comprises a liquid crystal display panel 59 and a backlight unit 49 . [0048] The liquid crystal display panel 59 is composed of an active matrix substrate 51 , which includes switching elements such as TFTs (thin-film transistors), and a counter substrate 52 , which faces the active matrix substrate 51 , stuck together by a sealing member (not shown). The gap between the two substrates 51 and 52 is filled with liquid crystal (not shown). (The active matrix substrate 51 and the counter substrate 52 are sandwiched between polarizing films 53 and 53 .) [0049] The liquid crystal display panel 59 is of a non-luminous type, and achieves display by receiving light (backlight) from the backlight unit 49 . Accordingly, illuminating the entire surface of the liquid crystal display panel 59 evenly with the light from the backlight unit 49 contributes to enhanced display quality on the liquid crystal display panel 59 . [0050] The backlight unit 49 includes an LED module (light source module) MJ, a light guide plate 11 , and a reflective sheet 42 . [0051] The LED module MJ is a module that emits light; it includes a mount substrate 21 and an LED (light-emitting diode) 22 , the latter being mounted on electrodes formed on a mounting surface of the former to receive electric current to emit light. [0052] Preferably, to secure a necessary amount of light, the LED module MJ comprises a plurality of LEDs (point light sources) 22 as light-emitting elements. Preferably, these LEDs 22 are disposed in a row. For convenience' sake, only part of the LEDs 22 are shown in the drawing (in the following description, the direction of the row of the LEDs 22 is also referred to as J direction). [0053] The light guide plate 11 is a plate-shaped member having edge faces 11 S, a top face 11 U, and a bottom face 11 B, the latter two being so located as to sandwich the former. Of all the edge faces 11 S, one (light-receiving face 11 Sa) faces the light-emission face of the LED 22 to receive light therefrom. The light received undergoes multiple reflection inside the light guide plate 11 and eventually travels out of it, as planar light, through the top face (light-exit face) 11 U. In the following description, the edge face 115 opposite from the light-receiving face 11 Sa is referred to as the opposite face 11 Sb, and the direction pointing from the light-receiving face 11 Sa to the opposite face 11 Sb is referred to as K direction (the light guide plate 11 will be described in more detail later). [0054] The reflective sheet 42 is so located as to be covered by the light guide plate 11 . The face of the reflective sheet 42 facing the bottom face 11 B of the light guide plate 11 is a reflective surface. This reflective surface reflects the light from the LED 22 and the light propagating inside the light guide plate 11 back into the light guide plate 11 (through the bottom face 11 B of the light guide plate 11 ) without letting it leak out. [0055] In the backlight unit 49 described above, the reflective sheet 42 and the light guide plate 11 are stacked in this order (the direction in which they are stacked is referred to as L direction; it is preferable that J, K, and L directions be perpendicular to one another). The light from the LED 22 is turned by the light guide plate 11 into, and emanates therefrom as, planar light (backlight). The planar light reaches the liquid crystal display panel 59 , and permits it to display an image. [0056] Now, the light guide plate 11 in the backlight unit 49 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1 . FIG. 1 is a sectional view of the backlight unit 49 shown in FIG. 2 , as cut along line A-A′ and seen from the direction indicated by arrows. In FIG. 1 , the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 (part of the light that does not undergo total reflection at the top face 11 U), which will be described later, is indicated by broken-line arrows, and the totally reflected and other light is indicated by dash-and-dot-line arrows. [0057] As shown in FIG. 1 , on the top face 11 U of the light guide plate 11 , a diffraction grating DG is formed which has densely arranged grating ridges 13 . The diffraction grating DG is designed by a well-known RCWA (rigorous coupled wave analysis) method and according to equation (MO) noted below so as to produce diffraction-reflected light of comparatively high light intensity (diffraction-reflected light of order −1). [0000] n 2·sin θ2= n 1·sin θ1+ m·λ/d   (M0) [0000] where n 1 represents the refractive index of the medium on the incidence side of the top face 11 U; θ 1 (°) represents the angle of light incident on the top face 11 U with respect to the top face 11 U (this angle will be referred to as the incidence angle); n 2 represents the refractive index of the medium on the emergence side of the top face 11 U; θ 2 (°) represents the angle of light reflected on the top face 11 U with respect to the top face 11 U (this angle will be referred to as the reflection angle); d(nm) represents the periodic interval of the diffraction grating DG; m represents the order of diffraction; and λ represents the wavelength of light. (For easier understanding of θ 1 and θ 2 , consider them to be angles that are measured on KL plane defined by K and L directions.) [0065] For a case where the incidence and emergence sides with respect to the top face 11 U are both the light guide plate 11 , equation (M0) can be given as equation (M0′) below. [0000] n 1·sin θ2= n 1·sin θ1+ m·λ/d   (M0′) [0066] Specifically, the diffraction grating DG so designed has, as shown in FIG. 1 , a plurality of grating ridges 13 in the shape of parallelepipeds (blocks), and these grating ridges 13 are located on the top face 11 U of the light guide plate 11 . The grating ridges 13 are arranged with varying periods (pitches, grating periods). [0067] For example, in a case where the light guide plate 11 is formed of polycarbonate (with a refractive index nd of 1.59), the distance from the base to the tip of the grating ridges 13 , that is, the height (H) of the grating ridges 13 , is 300 nm, and these grating ridges 13 are arranged with three different periods d (dB, dG, and dR=170 nm, 200 nm, and 230 nm respectively). The grating ridges 13 arranged with each period d (dB, dG, and dR) are densely located to form a grating ridge group 13 gr ( 13 gr .B, 13 gr .G, and 13 gr .R respectively), and a group of grating ridge groups 13 gr .B, 13 gr .G, and 13 gr .R having grating ridges arranged with different periods forms one patch PH (see FIG. 2 ; each patch is rectangular in shape and measures about 10 nm by 10 μm). In each patch PH (hence, in the diffraction grating GS), the grating ridge groups 13 gr .B, 13 gr .G, and 13 gr .R are arranged one adjacent to another in the direction pointing from the light-receiving face 11 Sa to the opposite face 11 Sb, that is, in K direction. [0068] When light comprising blue light (with a wavelength of about 470 nm), green light (with a wavelength of about 550 nm), and red light (with a wavelength of about 620 nm) is incident, at an incidence angle (θ 1 ) of about 60°, on the top face 11 U of the diffraction grating DG, where a number of such patches PH are arranged, the light is diffraction-reflected on the diffraction grating DG to become diffraction-reflected light having a reflection angle (θ 2 ) equal to the incidence angle, that is, about 60°. Here, the diffraction-reflected light propagates in such a way as to return to the side from which the incident light propagates toward the diffraction grating DG. That is, the diffraction grating DG diffraction-reflects part of the light reaching it (light incident thereon at incidence angles within a particular range) in such a way as to return it to the side from which it propagates. [0069] The results of the diffraction-reflection are shown in FIGS. 3A to 5C . In these diagrams, the origin of the polar coordinate system represents the point at which light is incident on the diffraction grating DG located on the top face 11 U, and the angle in the polar coordinate system represents the reflection angle of the light reflected at the incidence point with respect to the top face 11 U. For convenience' sake, the reflection angle of light propagating away from the LED 22 (propagating forward) is given a positive sign “+,” and the reflection angle of light propagating toward the LED 22 (propagating backward) is given a negative sign “−.” Circular dots indicate the totally reflected light, and triangular dots indicate diffraction-reflected light of order −1. [0070] FIGS. 3A to 5C are grouped as follows. FIGS. 3A to 3C show how blue light (with a wavelength of 470 nm) behaves when it reaches the diffraction grating DG; FIGS. 4A to 4C show how green light (with a wavelength of 550 nm) behaves when it reaches the diffraction grating DG; and FIGS. 5A to 5C show how red light (with a wavelength of 620 nm) behaves when it reaches the diffraction grating DG. [0071] FIGS. 3A , 4 A, and 5 A show how light behaves when it reaches the grating ridge group 13 gr .B arranged with a period (grating period) dB of 170 nm; FIGS. 3B , 4 B, and 5 B show how light behaves when it reaches the grating ridge group 13 gr .G arranged with a period (grating period) dG of 200 nm; and FIGS. 3C , 4 C, and 5 C show how light behaves when it reaches the grating ridge group 13 gr .R arranged with a period (grating period) dR of 230 nm. [0072] FIGS. 3A to 3C reveal the following. FIG. 3A , in particular, shows that, when blue light reaches, at an incidence angle of about 60° (θ 1 ≈60°), the grating ridge group 13 gr .B arranged with a period (grating period) dB of 170 nm, it produces totally reflected light and diffraction-reflected light of order −1. The diffraction-reflected light of order −1 has a reflection angle of about −60° (θ 2 ≈60°. On the other hand, FIGS. 3B ad 3 C show that, when blue light reaches the grating ridge groups 13 gr .G and 13 Gr.R arranged with periods other than 170 nm, it is for the most part totally reflected. [0073] FIGS. 4A to 4C reveal the following. FIG. 4B , in particular, shows that, when green light reaches, at an incidence angle of about 60° (θ 1 ≈60°), the grating ridge group 13 gr .G arranged with a period (grating period) dG of 200 nm, it produces totally reflected light and diffraction-reflected light of order −1. The diffraction-reflected light of order −1 has a reflection angle of about −60° (θ 2 ≈60°). On the other hand, FIGS. 4A ad 4 C show that, when green light reaches the grating ridge groups 13 gr .B and 13 Gr.R arranged with periods other than 200 nm, it is for the most part totally reflected. [0074] FIGS. 5A to 5C reveal the following. FIG. 5C , in particular, shows that, when red light reaches, at an incidence angle of about 60° (θ 1 ≈60°), the grating ridge group 13 gr .R arranged with a period (grating period) dR of 230 nm, it produces totally reflected light and diffraction-reflected light of order −1. The diffraction-reflected light of order −1 has a reflection angle of about −60° (θ 2 ≈60°). On the other hand, FIGS. 5B ad 5 C show that, when red light reaches the grating ridge groups 13 gr .B and 13 Gr.G arranged with periods other than 230 nm, it is for the most part totally reflected. [0075] From the above-discussed results shown in FIGS. 3A to 5C , it is seen that, when conditions (A1) to (A5) noted below are fulfilled, white light propagating from the LED 22 and incident on the diffraction grating DG at an angle of about 60° (θ 1 ≈60°) behaves in the following manner: the blue, green, and red light contained in the white light from the LED 22 and incident on the diffraction grating DG produces diffraction-reflected light of order −1 that propagates in such a way as to return to the side from which the incident light propagates toward the diffraction grating DG, and in addition all in the same direction (so as to propagate at approximately the same reflection angle θ 2 (≈60°)). [0000] nd=1.59 Condition (A1) [0000] dB=170 nm Condition (A2) [0000] dG=200 nm Condition (A3) [0000] dR=230 nm Condition (A4) [0000] H=300 nm Condition (A5) [0000] where nd represents the refractive index, for the d-line, of the material of which the diffraction grating DG is formed; dB represents the grating period of the grating ridges 13 of the grating ridge group 13 gr .B, which diffracts blue light; dG represents the grating period of the grating ridges 13 of the grating ridge group 13 gr .G, which diffracts green light; dR represents the grating period of the grating ridges 13 of the grating ridge group 13 gr .R, which diffracts red light; and H represents the distance from the base to the tip of the grating ridges 13 (the height of the grating ridges 13 ). [0081] In this way, the diffraction grating DG diffraction-reflects, into diffraction-reflected light of order −1, light (blue, green, and red light) in particular wavelength bands corresponding to the periods of the grating ridges 13 of the diffraction grating DG itself, and makes the diffraction-reflected light of different colors propagate all in the same direction. This makes it easy to mix blue, green, and red light. That is, blue, green, and red light with uniform directivity is mixed to produce high-quality white light. [0082] The reflection angle of the light incident on the diffraction grating DG, which has been mentioned to be about 60°, is, in more specific numerical examples, 60°, 55°, and 65°, for instance. When light incident at these incidence angles is reflected as diffraction-reflected light of order −1, the reflection angle is as follows: for an incidence angle of 60°, a reflection angle of −60°; for an incidence angle of 55°, a reflection angle of −65.56°; and for an incidence angle of 65°, a reflection angle of −55.41°. [0083] The phenomenon described above can be summarized as follows: diffraction efficiency is high when diffraction-reflected light of order −1 is reflected in the direction (reflection angle) opposite from the direction (incidence angle) from which the source light is incident on the diffraction grating GS. Accordingly, in equation (M0′), the following substitutions are possible: θ 1 =−θ 2 =θ (θ will be described later); and m=−1. Thus, equation (M1) below is derived. [0084] Moreover, the grating periods (nm) of the grating ridges 13 that diffract light in the grating ridge groups 13 gr .B, 13 gr .G, and 13 gr .R are about half the wavelengths of visible light in the corresponding wavelength bands. Moreover, the height (H) of the grating ridges 13 is determined based on its correlation with the diffraction efficiency found by an RCWA (rigorous coupled wave analysis) method (the height of the grating ridges 13 is typically 50 nm or more but 1000 nm or less). [0000] d=λ/ (2· nd· sin θ)  Equation (M1) [0000] where nd represents the refractive index, for the d-line, of the material of which the diffraction grating GS is formed; d represents the grating period (nm) of the grating ridges 13 that diffract light in the grating ridge groups 13 gr .B, 13 gr .G, and 13 gr .R; λ represents the wavelength (nm) of light; and θ represents the angle (°) at which the incidence angle of light incident on the diffraction grating GS coincides with the reflection angle of the diffraction-reflected light derived from that light. [0089] As shown in FIG. 1 , the above-described high-quality white light after reflection propagates backward in such a way as to return to the LED 22 side (it is reflected backward). That is, inside the light guide plate 11 , whereas the light that reaches the diffraction grating DG while traveling toward the opposite face 11 Sb by undergoing multiple reflection travels from the light-receiving face 11 Sa to the opposite face 11 Sb (forward), the light that is reflected on the diffraction grating DG to become diffraction-reflected light of order −1 travels in the opposite direction (from the opposite face 11 Sb to the light-receiving face 11 Sa, backward). [0090] This diffraction-reflected light of order −1 (the light diffraction-reflected backward on the diffraction grating DG) then needs to be directed to the top face 11 U, and for this purpose a prism 15 (refractive optical element) is formed on the bottom face 11 B of the light guide plate 11 . The prism 15 is a triangular prism; as shown in FIG. 1 , it protrudes from the bottom face 11 B of the light guide plate 11 to have two prism faces (side faces) (a front prism face 15 Sf and a rear prism face 15 Sr) inclined with respect to the bottom face 11 B. [0091] Of these two prism faces, the one closer to the opposite face 11 Sb of the light guide plate 11 (farther away from the LED 22 ), that is, the front prism face 15 Sf, is so located as to receive the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 from the diffraction grating DG. Moreover, the front prism face 15 Sf is so inclined as to reflect the received diffraction-reflected light of order −1 toward the rear prism face 15 Sr, that is, the other of the two prism faces which is closer to the light-receiving face 11 Sa of the light guide plate 11 (closer to the LED 22 ). [0092] The rear prism face 15 Sr is so located as to receive the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 from the front prism face 15 Sf. Moreover, the rear prism face 15 Sr is so inclined as to reflect the received diffraction-reflected light of order −1 toward the top face 11 U. [0093] Preferably, the rear prism face 15 Sr is so inclined as to reflect the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 perpendicularly to the top face 11 U. To achieve that, it is preferable that the prism 15 be formed so as to fulfill equations (C1) and (C2) below. [0000] γ=θ±Δ  Equation (C1) [0000] γ+2·δ A+ 2·δ B= 180°  Equation (C2) [0000] where θ(°) represents the angle at which the incidence angle of light incident on the diffraction grating GS coincides with the reflection angle of the diffraction-reflected light derived from that light; Δ(°) represents an angle, in the range of 0°<Δ<10°, within which diffraction-reflected light is produced with diffraction efficiency equal to or more than 0.5 times the diffraction efficiency of the diffraction-reflected light at θ; γ(°) is the sum of or difference between θ and Δ, and represents the reflection angle at which diffraction-reflected light is produced with diffraction efficiency equal to or more than 0.5 times the diffraction efficiency of the diffraction-reflected light at θ; δA(°) represents, assuming that the prism 15 is a triangular prism protruding from the bottom face 11 B to form two angles with respect thereto, whichever of those two angles is farther away from the LED 22 ; and δB(°) represents, assuming that the prism 15 is a triangular prism protruding from the bottom face 11 B to form two angles with respect thereto, whichever of those two angles is closer to the LED 22 . [0099] These equations (C1) and (C2) will now be described with reference to an enlarged sectional view in FIG. 6 . There, as in FIG. 1 , broken-line arrows indicate the diffraction-reflected light of order −1. [0100] The diffraction-reflected light of order −1 traveling toward the prism 15 has a reflection angle of “γ.” Consider a first imaginary triangle which has a first side along the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 until reaching the prism 15 , a second side along a line N normal to the bottom face 11 B (and the top face 11 U), and a third side along a first extension plane E 1 which is an extension of the bottom face 11 B into the prism 15 . The first imaginary triangle then has angles of “γ” and 90°. The third angle thus equals “90°−γ.” This third angle is vertically opposite to the angle formed between the first extension plane E 1 and the diffraction-reflected light of order −1. Thus, the angle formed between the first extension plane E 1 and the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 also equals “90°−γ.” [0101] Consider a second imaginary triangle which has a first side along the front prism face 15 Sf, a second side along the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 traveling toward the front prism face 15 Sf, and a third side along the first extension plane E 1 . In this second imaginary triangle, the angle formed between the front prism face 15 Sf and the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 equals “δA” subtracted from the angle formed between the first extension plane E 1 and the diffraction-reflected light of order −1, namely “90°−γ” (that is, “90°−γ−δA”). [0102] Assume that the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 incident on the front prism face 15 Sf is totally reflected, and consider a third imaginary triangle which has a first side along the totally reflected diffraction-reflected light of order −1, a second side along the front prism face 15 Sf, and a third side along the rear prism face 15 Sb. In this third imaginary triangle, the angle formed between the totally reflected diffraction-reflected light of order −1 and the front prism face 15 Sf also equals “90°−γ−δA.” [0103] Moreover, in the third imaginary triangle, the angle formed between the front prism face 15 Sf and the rear prism face 15 Sb equals, as dictated by the shape of the triangular prism, “180°−(δA+δB).” Then, the third angle in the third imaginary triangle, that is, the angle formed between the totally reflected diffraction-reflected light of order −1 and the rear prism face 15 Sb, equals “γ+2·δA+δB−90°.” [0104] When the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 propagating from the front prism face 15 Sf is totally reflected on the rear prism face 15 Sb, the angle formed between the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 that has thus been totally reflected for the second time and the rear prism face 15 Sb also equals “γ+2·δA+δB− 90°.” Moreover, of the angles formed between a second extension plane E2 which is an extension from the rear prism face 15Sb and the bottom face 11B, the one vertically opposite to the angle “δB” in the prism 15 equals “δB.” [0105] Then, the sum of the angle formed between the second extension plane E 2 and the bottom face 11 B and the angle formed between the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 that has been totally reflected for the second time and the rear prism face 15 Sb (“γ+2·δA+2·δB−90°”) is the reflection angle of the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 that has been totally reflected for the second time with respect to the bottom face 11 B (hence the top face 11 U). Accordingly, when this sum “γ+2·δA+2·δB−90°” equals 90°, the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 from the diffraction grating DG exits perpendicularly to the top face 11 U. [0106] That is, when the prism 15 is designed to fulfill equation (C2), “γ+2·δA+2·δB=180°,” derived from “γ+2·δA+2·δB−90°=90°,” the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 from the diffraction grating DG exits perpendicularly to the top face 11 U. [0107] With this structure, the diffraction-reflected light of order −1, containing blue, green, and red light, from the diffraction grating DG reaches the prism 15 in a state mixed to a comparatively high degree, and is then guided by the prism 15 to travel and exit perpendicularly to the top face 11 U. Thus, the backlight unit 49 no longer requires a lens sheet for condensing light, and this helps reduce cost. [0108] In a specific numerical example of the prism 15 , the relevant parameters have the following values: [0000] δA=4°; [0000] δB=58.5°; [0000] F=10 μm [0000] where F represents the width of the prism 15 (the length of the prism 15 in K direction) formed on the bottom face 11 B of the light guide plate 11 . [0110] If the angle δA is equal to or greater than 5°, part of the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 that propagates in such a way as to return toward the prism 15 , in particular light having comparatively small reflection angles (θ 2 ), is less likely, after being reflected on the front prism face 15 Sf, to travel toward the rear prism face 15 Sb. Rather, light reaching the front prism face 15 Sf at comparatively small reflection angles (θ 2 ) is reflected to travel, not toward the rear prism face 15 Sb, but toward the bottom face 11 B. [0111] An increase in the amount of such light results in a decrease in the amount of light reaching the rear prism face 15 Sb, and hence a decrease in the amount of light exiting upright through the top face 11 U. For this reason, it is preferable that condition (C3) below be fulfilled. [0000] δA<5°  Condition (C3) [0112] Even if part of the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 happens to be transmitted through the prism 15 , it is reflected by the reflective sheet 42 back to the bottom face 11 B of the light guide plate 11 . OTHER EMBODIMENTS [0113] It should be understood that the present invention may be carried out in any other manners than specifically described by way of an embodiment above and allows for many modifications and variations without departing from the spirit of the invention. [0114] For example, although the foregoing description mentions, as an example of the material of the light guide plate 11 , polycarbonate fulfilling conditions (A1) to (A5) and equation (M1) noted above, this is not meant to be any limitation. The light guide plate 11 may instead be formed of, for example, silicone resin. Even in that case, in particular when the light guide plate 11 fulfills conditions (B1) to (B5) below, it permits light to behave as shown in FIGS. 3A to 5C (it should be noted that when conditions (B1) to (B5) hold, equation (M1) also holds). [0000] nd=1.3 Condition (B1) [0000] dB=210 nm Condition (B2) [0000] dG=245 nm Condition (B3) [0000] dR=270 nm Condition (B4) [0000] H=300 nm Condition (B5) [0115] Also with this light guide plate 11 formed of silicone resin, the grating ridge groups 13 gr .B, 13 gr .G, and 13 gr .R so act that the light reaching them in corresponding particular wavelength bands at incidence angles within a particular range (about 60°) is diffraction-reflected in a particular direction, that is, at a reflection angle of about 60° (in such a way that the light returns to the side from which it propagates). [0116] Thus, the diffraction-reflected light in specific wavelength bands propagates while keeping comparatively high directivity; in addition, since the directivity here is uniform, the light mixes to a comparatively high degree. Accordingly, when the light diffraction-reflected here is light in wavelength bands corresponding to the three primary colors of light, the mixed light is high-quality white light. In this way, the same effect is obtained as with the light guide plate 11 of Embodiment 1 which is formed of polycarbonate and includes the diffraction grating DG; that is, high-quality white light is produced. [0117] Also with this light guide plate 11 formed of silicone resin, a specific numerical example in which the incidence angle of light incident on the diffraction grating DG is about 60° is similar to one involving the light guide plate 11 of polycarbonate. Specifically, when the incidence angle of light incident on the diffraction grating DG is 60°, the reflection angle of the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 is −60°; when the incidence angle is 55°, the reflection angle is −65.56°; and when the incidence angle is 65°, the reflection angle is −55.41°. [0118] Also with this light guide plate 11 formed of silicone resin, when equations (C1) and (C2) are fulfilled, the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 from the diffraction grating DG exits perpendicularly to the top face 11 U. Thus, the diffraction-reflected light of order −1, containing blue, green, and red light, from the diffraction grating DG reaches the prism 15 in a state mixed to a comparatively high degree, and is then guided by the prism 15 to travel and exit perpendicularly to the top face 11 U. [0119] In this way, as a result of diffraction-reflected light of different colors being reflected by the prism 15 so as to travel perpendicularly to the top face 11 U, the light exiting from the light guide plate 11 has a directivity perpendicular to the light guide plate 11 . Thus, even when incorporating such a light guide plate 11 formed of silicone, the backlight unit 49 does not require a lens sheet for condensing light, and this helps reduce cost. [0120] In summary, the light guide plate 11 has, formed on its top face 11 U, the diffraction grating DG which returns the light reaching the face to the side from which the light propagates; moreover the light guide plate 11 has, formed on its bottom face 11 B, the prism 15 which reflects the thus backward diffraction-reflected light toward the top face 11 U. So long as these requirements are met, no specific conditions matter. [0121] Accordingly, there are no particular limitations on the refractive indices of the materials of the light guide plate 11 , the diffraction grating DG, and the prism 15 , and the grating ridges 13 may be, instead of in the shape of parallelepipeds, cylindrical, conical, etc. The grating periods of the grating ridges 13 may be other than about half the wavelengths of visible light in specific wavelength bands. Needless to say, the height of the grating ridges 13 is not limited to 300 nm, which is mentioned above as a mere example. [0122] In a specific numerical example of the above-described prism 15 formed of silicone resin, the relevant parameters have the following values: [0000] δA=3°; [0000] δB=59.5°; [0000] F=10 μm. [0123] It is here preferable that, instead of condition (C3) noted previously, condition (C4) below be fulfilled. Fulfilling this condition (C4) gives an effect similar to that obtained by fulfilling condition (C3). [0000] δA<4° Condition (C4) [0124] From the numerical examples of the prism 15 formed of polycarbonate and that formed of silicone resin, equation (C5) below is also derived. Specifically, when this condition (C5) holds, the prism 15 reflects the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 propagating from the diffraction grating DG such that it exits perpendicularly to the top face 11 U. [0000] δ A+δB= 62.5°  Condition (C5) [0125] Although the above description takes up an LED 22 as a light source, this is not meant to be any limitation. Instead, it is possible to use a linear light source such as a fluorescent lamp, or a light source based on a self-luminous material such as one producing organic or inorganic EL (electro-luminescence). [0126] Although the above description deals with a case where the diffraction grating DG includes three grating ridge groups 13 gr, it may instead include more grating ridge groups 13 gr . In a case where white light is produced by mixing light in four or more specific wavelength bands, the diffraction grating DG may include four or more grating ridge groups 13 gr. [0127] Although the above description takes up a prism 15 as an optical element for guiding the diffraction-reflected light of order −1 to the top face 11 U, this is not meant to be any limitation. Instead, it is possible to use a mirror. LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS [0128] 11 Light guide plate [0129] 11 B Bottom face of the light guide plate [0130] 11 U Top face of the light guide plate (light-exit face) [0131] 11 S Side face of the light guide plate [0132] 11 Sa Light-receiving face of the light guide plate [0133] 11 Sb Side face of the light guide plate opposite from the light-receiving face, that is, opposite face [0134] 13 Grating ridges [0135] 13 gr .B Grating ridge group corresponding to blue light (blue-light grating ridge group) [0136] 13 gr .G Grating ridge group corresponding to green light (green-light grating ridge group) [0137] 13 gr .R Grating ridge group corresponding to red light (red-light grating ridge group) [0138] PH Diffraction grating patch [0139] DG Diffraction grating [0140] 15 Prism (refractive optical element) [0141] 15 S Face of the prism [0142] 15 Sf Front prism face (prism face farther away from the light source) [0143] 15 Sr Rear prism face (prism face closer to the light source) [0144] 21 Mount substrate [0145] 22 LED (light source) [0146] 42 Reflective sheet [0147] 49 Backlight unit [0148] 59 Liquid crystal display panel [0149] 69 Liquid crystal display device
Three grating piece groups ( 13 gr .Gr.B, 13 G, 13 R) on the top surface ( 11 U) of a light guide plate correspond to light of different wavelength regions, and respectively diffract and reflect light of the corresponding wavelength region, which is incident thereon at an incident angle within a specific range, back to the incoming direction of the light. The bottom surface ( 11 B) of the light guide plate ( 11 ) is provided with a prism ( 15 ) for reflecting the backwardly diffracted and reflected light toward the top surface ( 11 U).
6
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to a device for the mining of thick strata of useful minerals, consisting of a wall lining section, a mining machine (in particular, a coal plough), and a conveyor unit for the haulage of the winnings, in particular a scraper conveyor. PRIOR ART From Polish patent specification No. 95130 there is known a device comprising a wall plough designed for mining thick strata. The known device comprises: a mining roof support unit, a coal plough, and a conveyor. The coal plough is mounted slidably on a conveyor and is advanced along the longwall face by means of a chain extending along the conveyor. At the same time the coal plough is pressed against the body of coal indirectly by means of the conveyor on which it is advanced. The conveyor is pressed against the body of coal by means of a hydraulic ram, one end of which is supported on a floor beam of the wall lining, while the other end is fixed to the conveyor. In order to provide uniform pressure of the plough through its height, its entire upper part is pressed against the longwall face by means of a ram situated in parallel to the floor and fixed on a cantilever mounted the lining. The other end of the ram is supported to props mounted slidably in a direction perpendicular to the longwall face. Drawbacks of the known device consist in its large dimensions which impede and--at a certain height of linings--make it impossible for personnel to pass by. The device is suitable only for the application in linings of a prop type. Permanent pressure from the upper ram may disturb operation of the coal plough in the case of instability in the longwall body. Moreover, in the conventional construction the props are loaded with disadvantageous overturning forces. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the invention is to provide a device wherein the plough is pressed against the longwall face at one point in the vicinity of the floor and at another point above the floor at a level above the application point of the resultant force of the reaction of the mineral against the plough, the lining serving for transmitting the holding down forces of the plough at two different points. This object has been achieved by a device comprising a roof support unit, a coal plough, and a winning haulage unit, in particular a scraper conveyor. The device is provided with two hydraulic rams parallel to each other, the upper ram being of a step-type advance equal to the web of the plough. The lower ram is fixed to the lining in the vicinity of the floor and acts, through the conveyor, upon the plough in a region close to the floor. The upper ram is fixed to the canopy of the lining. It acts upon the plough through a series of segments of tubular sections, on which a slide fixed to the plough advances. Such construction makes it possible to install a second, upper drive of the plough by to employing an additional guiding segment of the return run of the drive chain and by changing the slide system. The device according to the invention presses the plough against the coal body at two points on opposite sides of the application point of the resultant of reaction forces of the mineral upon the plough, which provides uniform mining of the mineral and makes the plough more stable in the vertical plane. An advantage of the device, as compared to the known devices of this type, is that it can be installed in any type of lining and provides for easy passage of personnel along the heading. Moreover, due to the use of a ram of step-type advance, situated in the upper guiding section of the plough, the device provides for uniform pressure against the longwall face, in spite of possible instability in the mineral body. Furthermore, the application of upper and lower drives improves the operation of the plough. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a side view of the device according to the invention. FIG. 2 shows a portion of FIG. 1 comprising the upper guide of the plough; FIG. 3 shows the connection of the segments of the upper guide of the plough together with its upper drive; FIG. 4 shows a modified upper guide; FIG. 5 shows a longitudinal section of the connection of segments of the upper guide of FIG. 4 with the drive; FIG. 6 shows a diagram of hydraulic drive of the device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION To floor beam 23 of lining 6 there is fixed a lower pressure unit extending parallel to the floor, said unit consisting of lower ram 21 and slidable system 26 supported at its other end on a conveyor 19. An upper pressure unit 1 comprises a hydraulic ram of step-type advance, a single step being equal to the web of plough 10. The upper pressure unit is also situated parallel to the floor and is fixed by means of articulated joint 3 to cantilever 4 which is rigidly fixed to canopy 5 of lining 6. The upper pressure unit 1 is mounted in clamping ring 7 fixed to canopy 5. The other end of the upper pressure unit is fixed to a segment of guide 2 on which slide 9 advances. The slide 9 is mounted on plough 10, slidably in a plane perpendicular to the floor. Segments of guide 2 form a series along conveyor 19. Particular segments of guide 2 are connected with one another by means of couplings fitted loosely in segments of guide 2. A coupling consists of pin 11 fitted in the segment of guide 2, and of sleeve 12 coupled with pin 11 by means of stud 13. The upper pressure unit comprises lever 8 of hydraulic distributor 27 controlling the upper pressure unit 1. This distributor serves for supplying the upper pressure unit 1 of another section which may be either a neighboring section or a more distant section in relation to a selected diagram of withdrawing sequence of the sections of lining 6. In the case of employing an additional chain 17 with its return run 15 for driving plough 10, a segment 16 of the upper guide of plough 10 is fixed to a piston rod of the upper pressure unit 1. Segments 16 are connected by means of outer sleeves 24 and connecting members 25. Segment 16 and sleeve 24 are provided with longitudinal recesses in which slide 18 is situated, said slide being fitted in segment 16. Chain 17 is fixed to slide 18. Return run 15 of chain 17 is supported to tube 14 fixed to the piston rod of the unit 1. The upper pressure unit 1 is started by means of lever 8 operating distributor 27 included in the hydraulic drive of the system. The said system comprises a supply source 30 from which a hydraulic medium flows out under pressure to supply main 37. Supply main 37 is connected with units 1, 1a and 1b mounted in succeeding sections of the mining lining. On the other side of units 1, 1a and 1b there is a flow-off main 51 connected with tank 35. Movement of the upper pressure unit 1 fixed according to FIG. 6 to the central section of the lining is controlled by means of distributors 28, 29, 27a and 27b. Distributor 28 is operated manually. It is a two-position distributor. It connects supply main 37 with cylinder 32 of unit 1 through pipe 53. From distributor 28 a pipe supplies the medium to the lining for the purpose of its relaying, as well as pipe 50 connected with flow-off main 51 through non-return valve 36. Pipe 50 is connected with pipe 52 which drains leakages from distributor 27. The manually operated two-position distributor 29 is connected at one side to supply main 37 and at the other side it is provided with a pipe through which the medium is supplied to the lining for the purpose of withdrawing, as well as with pipe 49. One branch of pipe 49 is connected with the under-piston chamber of cylinder 32, whereas the other branch of the said pipe is connected with the over-piston chamber of cylinder 32. Distributor 29 either connects or separates the branches of pipe 49. The over-piston chamber of cylinder 32 is connected with supply main 37 by means of pipe 39 provided with non-return valve 34 and gland 33. Cylinder 32 of the upper pressure unit 1, 1a, 1b is provided with internal annular recesses 41, 43, 45 and 47 spaced in relation to one another by the depth of one web of the plough. Recess 41 is situated at the same distance from the bottom of cylinder 32. Recesses 41 and 45 are connected with distributor 27a by means of pipes 42 and 46, whereas recesses 43 and 47 are connected with distributor 27b by means of pipes 44 and 48. Distributors 27a, 27 and 27b are connected with flow-off main 51. At the start of operation of the device for mining of thick strata, piston rod 31 is pushed into cylinder 32 to its full depth. At that time distributor 29 occupies position I, i.e. the over-piston and the under-piston chambers of cylinder 32 are not connected with each other by means of pipe 49. Simultaneously, distributor 28 occupies position I and connects the under-piston chamber of cylinder 32 with supply main 37. Pressure under the piston is that of supply source 30. Distributor 27a occupies also position I, so that annular recesses 41, 43, 45 and 47 are not connected with flow-off main 51. At that time distributor 27b occupies position II. Thus pipes 44 and 48 are closed. Pressure in the over-piston chamber of cylinder 32 is high and results from the pressure in the under-piston chamber connected with supply source 30. At that time plough 10 is in the region of distributor 27 and advances towards distributor 27a. At the moment when plough 10 pushes, with its slide 9, the lever 8a of distributor 27a, the plough is moved to position II and remains in this position, in spite of the fact that after the slide 9 passes, lever 8 returns to the central position. At the moment when distributor 27a occupies position II, annular recess 41 of cylinder 32 is connected by means of pipe 42 with flow-off main 51. Pressure in the over-piston chamber of cylinder 32 drops, and pressure in the under-piston chamber of cylinder 32, which is connected by means of pipe 53 and distributor 28 with supply source 30, makes the piston rod 31 advance out of the cylinder 32. The advancing piston rod 31 moves guide 2 towards the face of the longwall. Piston rod 31 advances until annular recess 41 is covered by the piston. Then the over-piston chamber of cylinder 32 is closed again. Thus, an equilibrium of forces acting upon piston rod 31 is established and piston rod 31 stops moving towards the longwall face. Since the distance between the bottom of cylinder 32 and annular recess 41 is appropriately matched, piston rod 31 protrudes by one web of plough 10. When returning, plough 10 passes distributor 27a and deflects lever 8a, thus moving the slide of distributor 27a to position III. Pipe 42 is closed, whereas pipe 46 still remains closed. Then, one of the pipes connected with distributor 27a is connected with flow-off main 51, but this does not affect the upper pressure unit 1. In its further travel, plough 10--by means of slide 9--deflects lever 8b of distributor 27b, moving it to position III. Thus, pipe 44 and then annular recess 43 are connected with flow-off main 51. Pressure in the over-piston chamber of cylinder 32 drops and piston rod 31 under the effect of pressure in the under-piston chamber of cylinder 32 shifts guide 2 twoards the longwall face, since the under-piston chamber is connected by means of pipe 53 through distributor 28 with supply main 37 wherein the pressure is that of supply source 30. Piston rod 31 moves until the moment when the piston covers annular recess 43 and a state of equilibrium is attained in the cylinder. After the plough 10 passes by distributor 27a four times, its slide is shifted again to position I during withdrawing of a section of lining 6 by means of pressure provided by pipe 52. When piston rod 31 protrudes completely from cylinder 32, relaying of the lining is carried out. Distributor 29 is shifted manually to position II. Props of the lining are connected through supply main 37 with supply source 30. The lining is withdrawn. At the same time, the over-piston chamber and under-piston chamber of cylinder 32 are connected with each other by means of pipe 49, and--by means of pipe 48 and distributor 27b--with flow-off main 51 and tank 30. Piston rod 31 can move freely in cylinder 32. Consequently, unit 1 can deflect freely in a vertical plane, due to the withdrawing of canopy 5 and relaying of the lining. Relaying of the lining is carried out by means of manual shifting of distributor 28 to position II. The under-piston chamber of cylinder 32 is connected with tank 35 by means of pipe 53, distributor 28, pipe 50, and non-return valve 36. At the same time, lower ram 21 is appropriately connected (for relaying of the lining) to supply main 37 and supply source 30 through distributor 28. The lining is moved towards conveyor 19, together with cylinder 32, and consequently, piston rod 31 is pushed into cylinder 32, and the device is prepared for a new cycle of operation. When the upper pressure unit 1 is in operation, lower ram 21 constantly presses slidable system 26 against conveyor 19 which--by means of guide 22--presses the lower part of plough 10 against the longwall face. Plough 10 is provided with a lower drive for advance by means of chain 20 situated in guide 22.
A device for mining thick coal strata comprising a plough pressed in the ion of the floor by a ram, whereas in the vicinity of the roof the plough is pressed by a unit fixed to a canopy of the lining. The unit is provided with guides on which the plough is supported through a slide. A lever of a distributor is deflected by the plough and causes the unit to extend by an amount equal to the web of the plough.
4
FIELD OF INVENTION The present invention relates to priming solutions used during cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION The first successful cardiopulmonary bypass procedure was performed in 1953 by John Gibbon at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Today, hundreds of thousands of procedures are performed worldwide every year. Priming solutions for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), also known as extra corporeal circulation (ECC), are used to fill up sections of a bypass circuit, such as the tubing, the pump and the reservoir. The main purpose of the solution is to remove air from the system which could otherwise cause air emboli when the circuit is connected to a patient. In the early days of CPB, donor blood was used to prime the circuit, the patient's own blood being the best solution to perfuse. However, this practice has largely been abandoned today, due to cost, lack of blood and the side effects that donor blood transfusion has been associated with, such as risk of transmitting infectious disease and immunosuppression. In use, the patient is connected to the circuit, and the priming solution is mixed with the patient's blood. This causes significant dilution of the blood, which can be harmful to the patient. It is therefore important to reduce the harmful effects of the haemodilution and the priming solution. The blood volume is related to the size of the patient, a smaller patient having less volume and a larger patient having more volume. However, the volume of the priming solution depends largely on the circuit used. Generally, 1.5 to 2 liters of priming solution are used to fill the system, regardless of the patient's size. Fluid distribution in humans is divided between the extracellular fluid (ECF) and the intracellular fluid (ICF). The ECF is further distributed between the vascular space, which contains about 25% of the total ECF volume, and the interstitial space, which contains about 75% of the total ECF volume (Griffel et al., 1992). Isotonic solutions such as Ringer's lactate have a similar osmotic pressure to plasma and addition to the circulation does therefore not form a water potential gradient. This means that after dilution of the blood with an isotonic crystalloid solution, 75% of the solution will remain interstitially and 25% will remain in the vasculature (Griffel et al., 1992). The more crystalloid the solution that is given, the more interstitial oedema forms. Despite the long history of the procedure and its common use, there is still no consensus as to which priming solution, crystalloid or colloidal, to use (Boldt et al., 2009, Gu et al., 2005). Crystalloid solutions used for CPB are generally balanced salt solutions such as saline and Ringer's lactate or dextrose/mannitol solutions. Often they contain a mixture of salt and/or sugars. A hypertonic saline has been used for CPB (McDaniel et al., 1994). Such a hypertonic crystalloid solution creates a water potential gradient, thereby causing water to move from the interstitial compartment to the vasculature, due to the high osmotic pressure it provides. However, the effect is soon lost as the electrolytes move to the interstitium. Colloidal solutions are generally a mixture of a balanced salt solution and a large molecule, which cannot easily enter the interstitium and therefore remains longer in the vasculature, thereby providing an oncotic pressure. Large molecules that have been used over the years in colloidal priming solutions include albumin, gelatine, hydroxyethyl starch (HES) and, to some extent, dextrans. These molecules provide a colloidal osmotic pressure or a colloidal oncotic pressure. The terms “colloidal osmotic pressure” and “colloidal oncotic pressure” are used interchangeably within this application. In practice, this means that a hyperoncotic colloidal solution administered to the vasculature brings water out from the interstitial compartment into the vasculature. This changes the distribution between the ECFs, with less of the fluid residing in the interstitial compartment. Hence, a hyperoncotic solution increases the total volume in the vasculature by a greater amount than the total volume being given. For example, a 25% albumin solution increases the volume in the vasculature almost five times the given volume (Griffel et al., 1992). Normal human oncotic pressure in the plasma is about 28 mmHg and a hyperoncotic solution must provide a higher oncotic pressure than this. The higher the oncotic pressure, the more water is shifted from the interstitium to the vasculature. Oedema is therefore reduced with hyperoncotic solutions and as a consequence the vascular resistance decreases, providing improved micro-circulation and reduced risk of hypo-perfusion. The brain is one of the regions that benefits the most from this change. Cognitive dysfunction post-cardiopulmonary bypass for open heart surgery has been reported to be as high as 70% (Iriz et al., 2005). An improvement in cognitive function was shown when a colloidal solution (HES) was used compared to a crystalloid solution (Iriz et al., 2005). Simple balanced salt solutions like Ringer's lactate or Ringer's acetate are sometimes used. These simple solutions provide a low oncotic pressure to the circulating blood, which leads to water leaking into the interstitial spaces and tissue, thereby forming oedema. This can be avoided by using a hyperosmotic solution. However, to maintain a stable oncotic pressure there is a need for a colloidal solution. There are new cardiopulmonary bypass machines on the market that work with much less priming volume. These reduced size systems are expensive and their usage may lead to increased risks as the reduced volumes give the perfusionist less reserve volume to work with, thereby increasing the risk of air being introduced to the vasculature. They are therefore only indicated during certain circumstances. Endogenous albumin is the major protein in plasma, providing about 80% of the oncotic pressure in a healthy person. It is, of course, the optimal molecule to use when endogenous and during normal body function. However, if non-endogenous albumin is used, it is expensive and the risk of transmitting infectious diseases can never be completely ruled out. Blood derived products can also cause immunosuppression (Spiess, 2001), and administration of human albumin does carry a small risk of anaphylactic reactions. Gelatines are modified collagen derivatives. The collagen is generally obtained from bovine material. The gelatines used are urea-bridged or otherwise connected heterogeneous peptide polymers. Apart from the apparent risk of transmission of infectious disease, the modified gelatines are known to cause anaphylactic reactions. The reactions can either be due to histamine release or can be antibody-mediated. Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is a molecule derived from amylopectin. Amylopectin is a highly branched glucose polymer and it is modified to HES through hydroxyethyl substitutions. The substitutions make it less vulnerable to amylase degradation and therefore more stable in the blood. HES is a heterogeneous mixture of particles of different sizes and degrees of substitution. The smaller molecules are rapidly excreted in the urine, while the largest molecules can be taken up by tissue and remain in the body for weeks, months and even years. There are different versions of HES available on the market, varying in molecular size distribution, side chains and degree of substitution. Administration does carry a risk of anaphylactic reactions, as well as disturbances in the complement and coagulation systems. An underestimated side effect is persistent itching, believed to be related to the accumulation of the largest molecules in the body. The onset of the itching is often delayed and therefore it is not always associated with the use of HES. Dextran is a heterogeneous, bacterially-produced glucose polymer with molecular weights ranging from thousands to millions of Daltons. However, commercially produced dextran is generally hydrolysed to smaller fractions. Commercial dextrans often have a mean molecular weight of 1, 40, 60 or 70 kDa. The actual weight of individual dextran molecules in each commercial sample may vary. For example, a Dextran 40 sample will include molecules with a range of weights, but the mean molecular weight will be 40 kDa. Dextran 1 is not used to create oncotic pressure in colloidal solutions due to its small mean molecular size. Dextrans are much less branched than HES molecules and are therefore also more extended than HES or albumin, which are more globular. Dextran molecules are also not charged, unlike proteins. Dextrans can be modified in various ways to alter their properties. Such modified dextrans are contemplated for use in the solution as disclosed. Despite the fact that dextrans are considered pharmacologically inert, they provide various effects on the immune system as well as the coagulation system. The exact mechanisms involved are not known, but it is thought to be due to steric effects. For example, dextran is known to reduce thrombogenesis and it has been used instead of or in combination with the anti-coagulant heparin for this purpose. Many coagulation factor interactions have been hypothesized, but the most well documented interactions are with platelets and Factor VIII (Grocott et al., 2002). The properties of dextran make it very favourable for use in colloidal priming solutions. It is cheap compared to albumin, and it has better coating properties than HES. It also has been shown to reduce ischemic reperfusion injury, and it is easily extracted from the body. Dextran does have a risk of anaphylactic reaction. However, this risk can be reduced through pre-administration of a dextran with a low molecular weight, such as Dextran 1. This pre-administration means that dextran has a smaller risk of anaphylactic reaction when compared with that for the other large molecules. It is thought that the small dextran molecules bind to the immunoglobulins involved in the reaction, thereby preventing aggregation of the immunoglobulins and an anaphylactic reaction (U.S. Pat. No. 4,201,772). Due to the small molecular weight of Dextran 1, a small dose in terms of grams outnumbers the larger molecules from colloidal preparations, thereby creating effective prophylaxis. Dextran is known to increase capillary flow. This is achieved partly through reducing the viscosity of the blood and the oncotic action, thereby reducing swelling and opening the capillaries, and partly because it prevents leukocytes sticking to the microvasculature, which would otherwise cause further narrowing of the vessels. However, the main reason that dextrans are not more widely used in CPB priming solutions is the dose dependent risk of bleeding on their administration. It may be the dextran's effect on the coagulation system which increases the risk of bleeding when used in sufficient concentrations to provide a functional hyperoncotic pressure. Bleeding is, of course, of major concern during open heart surgery and cardiopulmonary bypass. An increased risk of excessive bleeding could therefore outweigh the positive effects that the colloidal solution could provide. The increased coagulopathy with dextran compared to HES is described in Tigchelaar et al., 2010, which indicates that “ . . . hydroxyethyl starch can not be labelled as an antithrombotic agent like dextran.”. Petroianu et al., 2000 indicates that “ . . . we suggest that dextran (especially 10% Dextran 40) and HES preparations should be used with caution when bleeding would potentially be of serious consequence to the patient”. Although the authors of these papers have different views on HES, which could likely be explained by the different preparations used, they are consistent in terms of the risks with dextran. Dextrans are sometimes used in resuscitation solutions for trauma patients because of their beneficial properties. Due to risk of bleeding, there is a set limit of 1.5 g dextran per kg body weight and 24 hours. This limit has not been specified for use of dextrans in colloidal priming solutions for CPB. However, bleeding is even more of a concern in relation to CPB, as the patient is already at risk of bleeding complications due to heparinisation and the procedure as such. Therefore, it is argued that the recommended dose limit for dextrans may be lower than 1 to 1.5 g/kg body weight and 24 hours during CPB (Gu et al., 2006). The dose dependency is of concern as CPB is a standardised procedure that does not take the body weight of the patient into consideration. A patient of 50 kg receives as much priming solution as a patient of 100 kg, resulting in a doubled dose in the smaller patient. A further point is that the administration of the whole dose during CPB priming is instant and not delayed over 24 hours. Although much of the research referred to in relation to fluid distribution and effects of colloids and crystalloids comes from the field of resuscitation and not CPB, the differences between these two fields must be remembered. The main difference is that in resuscitation, a lost blood volume is being replaced by an infused fluid with the aim of increasing the volume in the vasculature and thereby restoring blood pressure. During CPB the priming solution is not used to replace lost volume, but instead it adds circulating volume to be able to fill not only the vasculature, but also the extra corporeal circuit, with fluid. Another difference is that CPB in itself causes changes to the inflammatory and coagulation pathways, partly through contact with the bypass circuit surfaces. Heparin is also used in conjunction with CPB, further affecting the coagulation pathway. Low concentration dextran solutions that do not provide functional hyperoncotic pressure have been used for priming of CPB circuits, as discussed below. Lancon et al., 1975 used a priming solution consisting of a mixture of 1.5 liters of 3.5% Dextran 40 and 0.5 liters of Ringer's solution. The solution works similarly to an albumin containing solution. The dextran solution used contains a relatively low Dextran 40 concentration, which may not provide a functional hyperoncotic pressure. There is no mention of the addition of a lower molecular weight dextran. Mellbye et al., 1988 describe the use of 1.5 liters of Macrodex (10% Dextran 70) in a priming solution with a total volume of 2.4 liters solution for CPB. The study aimed to investigate the effect on the complement system with plasma or dextran as the primer. The paper states that dextran is known to activate the alternative pathway of complement. Bleeding is not discussed and there is no mention of the addition of a lower molecular weight dextran. Lee et al., 1975 is a clinical study that compares results with three different priming solutions. Solution 1 is a crystalloid solution, solution 2 is Ringer's lactate with 1% Dextran 40 and solution 3 is an HES solution. The dextran solution used contains a relatively low Dextran 40 concentration and there is no mention of addition of a lower molecular weight dextran. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION For the purpose of this application, a non-oncotic dextran is defined as a dextran with a mean molecular weight lower than 5 kDa. An oncotic dextran is defined as a dextran with a mean molecular weight of above 20 kDa. A balanced salt solution is one comprising ions in concentrations that are similar to those in blood. Preferably, the salt solution is isotonic or almost isotonic, and can be exemplified by Ringer's lactate, Ringer's acetate, normal saline, PBS or a cell culture medium. For the purpose of this application, a functional hyperoncotic pressure is an oncotic pressure such that when a solution with the functional hyperoncotic pressure is mixed with blood in the patient, the oncotic pressure in the blood is maintained within normal patient values. The reason for using this definition is because the effective oncotic pressure provided by a dextran solution mixed with blood in a patient cannot simply be calculated using van't Hoff's law. When oncotic pressure is measured in Dextran 40 solutions against a 10 kDa cut-off membrane, 35 g/l corresponds approximately to 37 mmHg or 1.3 times the oncotic pressure of plasma, 45 g/l corresponds approximately to 48 mmHg or about 1.7 times the oncotic pressure of plasma and 55 g/l corresponds approximately to 63 mmHg or about 2.1 times the oncotic pressure of plasma. However, the exact numbers will vary between measurement methods. The in vivo situation also immediately changes the functional oncotic pressure. According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a cardiopulmonary bypass priming solution comprising a balanced salt solution and a combination of oncotic and non-oncotic dextran molecules. It was unexpectedly found that the solution as disclosed does not cause dose dependent bleeding when used as the priming solution for cardiopulmonary bypass. Preferably, the oncotic dextran is Dextran 40, and the non-oncotic dextran is Dextran 1. The functional hyperoncotic pressure should be sufficient to maintain oncotic pressure in the patient during the CPB procedure and is preferably similar to the hyperoncotic pressure provided by 35 to 55 g/l of Dextran 40. As mentioned previously, a sample of Dextran 40 comprises dextran molecules with a range of molecular weights, but with a mean molecular weight of 40 kDa. Other molecular fractions of dextrans, such as commercially available Dextran 60, would have a similar effect to Dextran 40 and could be used as an alternative. The concentrations would need optimisation for the new mean molecular weight dextran. This is easily achieved through comparison of the oncotic pressure measured with a Dextran 40 solution of the above concentrations to obtain essentially the same oncotic pressure in the priming solution. Using this methodology, a dextran with a mean molecular size distribution between 20 and 80 kDa, preferably between 20 and 60 kDa, more preferably between 30 and 55 kDa or even more preferably between 35 and 45 kDa could be optimised for an alternative solution. The higher the mean molecular weight, the more grams of dextran would be required for the same oncotic pressure. Preferably, the concentration of the oncotic dextran is equivalent to between 35 and 55 g/l of Dextran 40 and the non-oncotic dextran concentration would be equivalent to between 1 and 10 g/l of Dextran 1, preferably equivalent to between 1 and 5 g/l of Dextran 1. Where the non-oncotic dextran is Dextran 1, the concentration of Dextran 1 may be between 1 and 10 g/l, preferably between 1 and 5 g/l Dextran 1. This should not induce an increased dose dependant risk of bleeding. One mechanism in which dextrans cause excess bleeding is through the formation of complexes of coagulation factors, thereby removing the factors from circulation (Petroianu et al., 2000). The smaller, non-oncotic dextran molecules might prevent this through competitive binding. When compared with a crystalloid solution in an animal model, the haematocrit was significantly lower with the solution as disclosed, indicating that the fluid supplied by the oncotic priming solution stayed within the vasculature, creating a significantly lower systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). The oncotic pressure also dropped significantly with the crystalloid solution, while it stayed unchanged or even slightly increased with the solution as disclosed. A further improvement with the solution as disclosed can be clearly observed by following the fluid level in the venous reservoir while on bypass. With the solution as disclosed, the level increased in all cases and there was no need for extra fluid. However, with a crystalloid solution the level diminished in all cases, and fluid had to be added to keep the fluid level in the venous reservoir over the minimum level set for safety reasons and to be able to keep the perfusion flow up. The cardiac output and the MAP were significantly higher in the 2-hour post ECC time with the solution as disclosed, reflecting a larger blood volume. There were no signs of excess bleeding in the animals that were given the priming solution according to the solution as disclosed. Hence the solution as disclosed provides a functional hyperoncotic pressure as intended, without inducing any excess bleeding either during or post procedure. In a human clinical study, the amount of bleeding was found not to correlate with the patient weight when using the solution as disclosed. The oncotic pressure was also shown to be maintained and stable during the CPB when a solution as disclosed was used. In conclusion, it was found that a balanced salt and dextran solution, comprising oncotic and non-oncotic dextran molecules, provides sufficient oncotic pressure to maintain the oncotic pressure in the patient's blood during the CPB, without causing dose dependant bleeding. To achieve this, the concentration of the oncotic dextran molecule should be equivalent to between 35 and 55 g/l of Dextran 40 and the concentration of the non-oncotic dextran should be equivalent to between 1 and 10 g/l of Dextran 1. Preferably, the concentration of the oncotic dextran molecule should be equivalent to between 40 and 50 g/l of Dextran 40 and the concentration of the non-oncotic dextran should be equivalent to between 1 and 5 g/l of Dextran 1. According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided the use of a cardiopulmonary bypass priming solution as disclosed in a cardiopulmonary bypass method. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of maintaining oncotic pressure in a patient during a cardiopulmonary bypass procedure, comprising contacting the patient with a priming solution as disclosed. Preferably, the patient is human. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a combination of the cardiopulmonary bypass priming solution as disclosed and a cardiopulmonary bypass apparatus. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: FIG. 1 is a graph showing the infusion in ml during the procedure for both the solution as disclosed and Ringer's acetate; FIG. 2 is a graph showing the amount of fluid remaining in the reservoir of the extra corporeal circuit at the end of the procedure for both the solution as disclosed and Ringer's acetate; FIG. 3 is a graph showing the volume of urine produced during the procedure with both the solution as disclosed and Ringer's acetate; FIG. 4 is a graph showing the volumes remaining in specific areas with both the solution as disclosed and Ringer's acetate; FIG. 5 is a graph showing the oncotic pressure during the procedure with both the solution as disclosed and Ringer's acetate; FIG. 6 is a graph showing how the activated clotting time varies during the procedure with both the solution as disclosed and Ringer's acetate; FIG. 7 is a graph showing how bleeding varies during the procedure with both the solution as disclosed and Ringer's acetate; FIG. 8 is a graph showing the correlation between the amount of bleeding intra-operatively and the weight of the patient; and FIG. 9 is a graph showing the correlation between the amount of bleeding intra-operatively and the weight of the patient. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Pre-Clinical Study on Animals of a Solution According to the Invention and Controls. Animals and Animal Care Sixteen Swedish domestic pigs with a mean body weight of 63 kg (range 60-72 kg) were used for the experiments. All animals received care in compliance with the “Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals” (NIH Publication 85-23 revised 1985). Before the experiment, all animals were fasted overnight with free access to water. After the experiments, all animals were euthanized by induction of ventricular fibrillation with an intravenous injection of potassium chloride. Animal Preparation All animals received premedication with intramuscular ketamine 10 mg/kg body weight and xylasin 0.2 mg/kg body weight. For anaesthesia induction, sodium thiopental 5 mg/kg body weight and atropine 0.02 mg/kg body weight were used intravenously. Pancuronium was given intravenously before the tracheotomy and introduction of the tracheal tube. During the experiment, anaesthesia was maintained using a mixture of 8 g ketamine and 300 mg pancuronium bromide dissolved in 5% glucose to 500 ml as a continuous infusion of 35 ml per hour. A volume controlled ventilation was used to maintain normal venous condition (minute volume 150-200 ml/kg, 20 breaths/min, PEEP=5 cm H 2 O, inspired oxygen fraction=0.5). Experimental Protocol The pigs were randomly assigned into either the crystalloid group (1500 ml Ringer-acetate, n=8) or the oncotic group (1500 ml PrimeECC solution according to the solution as disclosed, the composition of which is shown below). An envelope with sixteen identical notes was used. The notes were marked either crystalloid or oncotic group. After preparation of the animal, a stabilization period of 30 minutes began, during which the last 15 minutes were registered as baseline. ECC (extra corporeal circulation) was established and maintained for 60 minutes. The ECC was then disconnected and the animals were monitored for another 120 minutes. PrimeECC composition: Molecule: Amount: Dextran 40 45.0 g Dextran 1 3.00 g Sodium chloride 5.84 g Potassium chloride 298 mg Magnesium chloride 6H 2 O 203 mg Calcium chloride 2H 2 O 294 mg Sodium lactate 3.36 g Hydrochloric acid (for pH) q.s. Water for inj. ad 1000 ml Surgery and Perfusion Each experiment was performed as a veno-arterial bypass and maintained for 1 hour. All surgery was performed under clean conditions. After performing a median sternotomy, the thymus and the anterior part of the pericardium were carefully removed and the heart and aortic arch were exposed. After systemic heparinisation (300 IU/kg), the right atrium and the aortic arch were cannulated. The activated clotting time (ACT) was kept above 350 seconds by intermittent injections of heparin. All perfusions were performed at normothermia (37° C.). A hard-shell venous/cardiotomy reservoir with an oxygenator and an arterial filter was used in all perfusions. The perfusion circuits were assembled and primed according to the manufacturer's instructions. A centrifugal pump was chosen as the arterial pump for the perfusions. No filtration to reduce the numbers of platelets prior to perfusion took place. The pump flow was set to 65 ml/kg/min, the pump flow/gas ratio was kept 1:1.2 and the FiO 2 was set to 0.5 during the 60 min perfusion period. Ventilation was disconnected at all times during ECC. Monitoring and Measurements Two central venous and two arterial lines were established through the neck vessels for blood sampling, drug administration and pressure monitoring. A pulmonary artery line was placed by direct puncture of the pulmonary artery after performance of median sternotomy. The reason for having two venous and arterial lines was to allow blood sampling with minimal disturbance of the pressure monitoring in the other lines. Before insertion, the three pressure-monitoring catheters were calibrated to atmospheric pressure at the level of the right atrium, the intra-thoracic aorta and the pulmonary artery respectively. Blood pressure, MAP (Mean arterial pressure), CVP (central venous pressure), PAP (pulmonary arterial pressure), heart rate, pump flow, pump rpm, pump pressure and temperature were continuously measured and monitored with a fluoroscope. Cystotomy for urine output measurements was performed in all animals. Central body temperature was measured in naso-pharynx. Also, two ultrasonic blood flow probes were placed around the right carotid artery and the pulmonary artery. A calibrated transducer was incorporated between the tracheal tube and the ventilator to measure the end-tidal carbon dioxide. Blood samples were taken for blood gases, lactate, glucose, oncotic pressure, ACT and osmolarity as base, 30 min and 60 min of ECC and 30 min, 60 min, 90 min and 120 min post ECC. Blood samples were taken from the right atrium, carotid artery and pulmonary arteries and analyzed for blood gases and oxygen saturation, haemoglobin and haematocrit. Data Analysis All results are expressed as the mean+/−standard error of the mean (S.E.M.). Single time points (base line) were analyzed with Student's t-test for unpaired data and global interpretations of data were made by the area under the curve. Results The two groups did not differ significantly in any measured variable at base line. During the ECC period the pump flow was numerically almost the same, even if the small difference was statistically significant. During ECC, no infusion had to be given in the oncotic group whereas 1.3 liters had to be given in the crystalloid group (p<0.001). Post ECC, significantly more (p<0.05) infusions also had to be given to the crystalloid group ( FIG. 1 ). There was significantly more (p<0.001) fluid left over in the extra-corporeal circuit and its reservoir (“doggy bag”) from the oncotic group and the urine production was about 400 ml higher (p<0.001) compared to the crystalloid group ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ). The total fluid balance was +1.8 liters in the crystalloid group compared to −18 ml in the oncotic group (p<0.001) ( FIG. 4 ). The oncotic pressure was significantly higher (p<0.001) in the oncotic group, on average 19 mmHg compared to 13 mmHg in the crystalloid group, during ECC as well as post ECC. There was no significant difference in osmolarity between the two groups. The haematocrit was significantly lower (p<0.001) during the ECC and post ECC in the oncotic group ( FIG. 5 ). During the ECC period, MAP was significantly lower (p<0.05) in the oncotic group (around 65 mmHg) compared to the crystalloid group (around 85 mmHg), whereas the opposite appeared post ECC. At base, the cardiac output was around 4 l/min in both groups and it was similar post ECC in the crystalloid group. However, in the oncotic group it was significantly higher (p<0.001) 30 min post ECC (around 6 l/min) and then declined and leveled out around 5 l/min at the end of the observation time. The systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were lower in the oncotic group during ECC and post ECC, but the difference was significant only for SVR. Arterial oxygen and carbon dioxide tensions did not differ significantly between the two groups during the observation period. There was no significant difference in ACT or bleeding between the groups ( FIGS. 6 and 7 ). Comments This study demonstrates the haemodynamic consequences of keeping the oncotic pressure within physiological limits during and after ECC. The haematocrit was significantly lower in the oncotic group, indicating that the fluid supplied by the oncotic priming solution stayed within the vasculature, giving a significantly lower SVR and MAP in that group. The oncotic pressure dropped significantly by 7 mmHg in the crystalloid group, while it stayed unchanged or even increased slightly in the oncotic group. This difference could be most clearly observed by following the fluid level in the venous reservoir while on bypass. In the oncotic group, the level increased in all cases and there was no need for extra fluid. In the crystalloid group, the level diminished in all cases, and fluid had to be added to keep the fluid level in the venous reservoir over the minimum level set for safety reasons and to be able to keep the perfusion flow at 65 ml/kg and min. The fluid balance was strikingly different in the two groups; +1900 ml in the crystalloid group and −18 ml in the oncotic group. The cardiac output and the MAP were significantly higher in the 2-hour post ECC time in the oncotic group, reflecting a larger blood volume in that group. As shown above, there were no signs of excess bleeding in the animals which were given a priming solution as disclosed. Hence the study showed that a solution as disclosed functions as intended in relation to oncotic pressure, without inducing any excess bleeding either during or post procedure. Clinical Study on Humans of a Solution According to the Invention and Controls Materials and Method The study was performed according to recommendations guiding physicians in biomedical research involving human subjects adopted by the 18th World Medical Assembly, Helsinki, Finland, 1964. Approval from the Ethics Committee was obtained for the study. All patients entering the study had given their written consent. The study was designed and performed as a prospective, randomised user blind study, with two groups, Control group and PrimeECC™ (Test) group, running parallel to each other. The randomization was prepared by a biostatistician from the Competence Centre for Clinical Research at the University Hospital of Lund. The randomization list was stored at the hospital pharmacy, which packaged the study solution. In order to maintain a blind study, the local pharmacy prepared both the test solution and the control solution in identical bags. The day of the surgery, the bags were delivered from the pharmacy to the perfusionist. A logbook of study products was prepared by the pharmacy and the randomization number of the study treatment was also verified in the hospital records. There were 20 patients included in each group, with a total of 40 patients. The crystalloid group (Control) of patients received a Ringer-acetate and mannitol solution as a priming solution and the oncotic (Test) group (PrimeECC™) received a dextran based hyperoncotic solution as disclosed. Three patients were excluded from the study after they were randomized, but before completing the study, one patient due to an adverse event post CPB and two patients due to abnormal lab results on the morning of surgery. For these cases, the Competence Centre for Clinical Research at the University Hospital of Lund had prepared procedures to handle the situation. The principal investigator was instructed to contact the biostatistician at the centre for clinical research, who according to their routines prepared and randomized additional patients for entering the study so that the study, when finished, had two groups with 20 patients in each group and a total of 40 patients. Inclusion Criteria Patients aimed for elective, first time coronary bypass surgery Patients who gave their written consent to participate in the study Exclusion Criteria Ejection fraction <30% S-creatinine >200 μmol/L Known dextran hypersensitivity Test Product (PrimeECC™ Group) 1500 ml per session. Composition as follows: Molecule: Amount: Dextran 40 45.0 g Dextran 1 3.00 g Sodium chloride 5.84 g Potassium chloride 298 mg Magnesium chloride 6H 2 O 203 mg Calcium chloride 2H 2 O 294 mg Sodium lactate 3.36 g Hydrochloric acid (for pH) q.s. Water for inj. ad 1000 ml Reference Product (Control Group) The reference products were taken from the marketing stock at the pharmacy. Ringer-Acetate Fresenius Kabi 1250 ml per session Composition as follows: Molecule: Amount: Sodium chloride 5.9 g Potassium chloride 0.3 g Calcium chloride 295 mg Magnesium chloride 6H 2 O 0.2 g Sodium acetate 3H 2 O 4.1 g Hydrochloric acid ad pH 6 Water for inj. ad 1000 ml Mannitol Fresenius Kabi 250 ml per session Composition as follows: Molecule: Amount: Mannitol 150 mg Sodium hydroxide q.s. Water for inj. ad 1000 ml Study Equipment The HLM used was an HL20 (Jostra AG, Hechingen, Germany). A hard-shell venous/cardiotomy reservoir with an oxygenator (Quadrox+VKD 4201, Jostra AG, Hechingen, Germany) and an arterial filter (Quart, Jostra AG, Hechingen, Germany) was used in all perfusions and tubing was from the same company. The perfusion circuits were assembled and primed according to the manufacturer's instructions. The blood parameters were measured with a Radiometer's ABL725 instrument except for the oncotic pressure which was measured with a colloid osmometer (Wescor Inc, Logan, Utah, USA) using a semi-permeable membrane with the size of 30 000 Daltons. Study Data Fluid balance measurements were registered as baseline during anaesthetic preparation but prior to initiation of CPB, and then at 30 minutes, 60 minutes and 120 minutes after initiation of CPB, and at the first post-operative day after termination of CPB. Values for colloidal oncotic pressure (COP) and haematocrit were registered as baseline during anaesthetic preparation but prior to initiation of CPB and then at 30 minutes, 60 minutes and 120 minutes after initiation of CPB and at the first post-operative day after termination of CPB. Statistics Student's t-test with Bonferroni correction for repeated measurements was used for comparison between the two groups. All data are presented as mean±standard deviation (SD). Results There was no significant difference in demographic data between the groups (Table 1). TABLE 1 Demographic data All data are expressed as MEAN ± SD. PrimeECC ™ Control P-value Test Number of patients 20 n.s. 20 Age 66 ± 6  n.s. 70 ± 7  Gender M/F 18/2 n.s. 17/3 Weight (kg) 79 ± 10 n.s. 82 ± 12 Height (cm) 175 ± 7  n.s. 173 ± 9  BSA (m 2 ) 1.96 ± 0   n.s. 1.98 ± 0   CPB-time, cross clamp time, pump flow, lowest temperature or priming volume did not differ significantly between the two groups (Table 2). TABLE 2 CPB Demographics All data are expressed as MEAN ± SD PrimeECC ™ Control P-value Test CPB time (min) 75 ± 20 n.s.  69 ± 11 Cross clamp time (min) 43 ± 15 n.s. 40 ± 7 Pump flow (l/min) 4.7 ± 0   n.s. 4.7 ± 0  Lowest temp (° C.) 35 ± 0  n.s. 35 ± 0 Priming volume (ml) 1500 n.s. 1500 Colloidal Osmotic Pressure (COP) There was no statistical difference in baseline values regarding COP between the two groups. The values were 23 mmHg±2 in the control group compared to 22 mmHg±1 in the PrimeECC™ group. At 30 and 60 minutes of CPB, there was a significant difference in COP between the groups, with 14 mmHg±1 in the control group compared to 21 mmHg±1 in the PrimeECC™ group at 30 minutes of CPB (p<0.0001), and at 60 min of CPB the COP was 14 mmHg±1 in the control group and 20 mmHg±1 in the PrimeECC™ group (p<0.0001). At 120 minutes post CPB, a statistical difference was still seen, with 16 mmHg±1 in the control group compared to 19 mmHg±1 in the PrimeECC™ group (p<0.001). At post-operative day 1 there was no significant difference between the two groups for COP (Table 3). TABLE 3 Oncotic pressure (Control) Mean Median SEM SD TTEST Base 23 23 1 2 0.6546  30 min ECC 14 14 1 2 0.0000  60 min ECC 14 14 1 2 0.0001 120 min Post ECC 16 17 1 2 0.0008 Post-op D1 20 20 1 2 0.0609 Oncotic pressure (Test) Mean Median SEM SD Base 22 22 1 3  30 min ECC 21 22 1 2  60 min ECC 20 20 1 2 120 min Post ECC 19 19 1 3 Post-op D1 21 21 1 2 Haematocrit As expected, the haematocrit was lower in the colloidal test group during CPB. The difference was no longer significant 120 min post CPB and at 1 day post CPB, there was no difference at all (Table 4). TABLE 4 Haematocrit (Control) Mean Median SEM SD TTEST Base 123 123 4 11 0.7524  30 min ECC 93 90 5 13 0.0087  60 min ECC 93 91 5 14 0.0152 120 min Post ECC 102 102 4 10 0.1671 Post-op D1 103 100 5 15 0.9543 Haematocrit (Test) Mean Median SEM SD Base 125 124 6 16  30 min ECC 84 83 4 12  60 min ECC 84 86 4 13 120 min Post ECC 96 98 4 12 Post-op D1 103 103 4 11 Fluid Balances There was no significant difference regarding urine output or the amount of given crystalloids, colloids, SAG or plasma intra-operatively between the two groups. However, there was a significantly lower CPB balance in the PrimeECC™ group compared to the control group, with 2737 ml±270 in the control group compared to 1817 ml±167 in the PrimeECC™ group (p<0.0001). The total fluid balance intra-operatively was significantly higher for the control group compared to the PrimeECC™ group, with 4067 ml±294 in the control group compared to 3190 ml±362 in the PrimeECC™ group (p<0.01). There was a non-significant tendency towards more intra-operative bleeding in the test group when means were compared. However, this was due to individual patient data. When bleeding was correlated to the weight of the patient there was no correlation and there was therefore no dose dependent bleeding ( FIG. 8 and Table 5). TABLE 5 Fluid balance Intra-op (Control) Mean Median SEM SD TTEST Bleeding intra-op 584 600 62 175 0.0571 Total Urine prod 589 470 136 385 0.0968 Crystalloid 2317 2210 220 623 0.7324 Colloid 25 0 40 112 1.0000 SAG 44 0 38 106 0.5038 Plasma 0 0 0 0 0.3299 ECC balance 2737 2650 270 764 0.0000 Reservoir 90 0 83 236 0.2480 Total op 4067 4045 294 831 0.0025 Fluid balance Intra-op (Test) Mean Median SEM SD Bleeding intra-op 1000 800 326.28 922.86 Total Urine prod 395 300 119 337 Crystalloid 2427 2250 436 1232 Colloid 25 0 40 112 SAG 78 0 71 201 Plasma 26 0 42 117 ECC balance 1817 1800 167 472 Reservoir 130 0 98 277 Total op 3190 3205 362 1024 There was no difference between the two groups regarding urine output or the amounts of crystalloids, plasma or SAG given post-operatively. The control group however, received significantly more colloids compared to the PrimeECC™ group, with 425 ml (±167) in the control group compared to 174 ml (±84) in the PrimeECC™ group. Once at the ICU, all patients were treated according to standard procedures which means that the data does not necessarily show the requirement of fluids for each patient. There was a non-significant tendency towards more bleeding in the test group when the means were compared. However, this was due to individual patient data. There was no correlation to the patient's weight and therefore the administered dose ( FIG. 9 and Table 6). TABLE 6 Fluid balance post-op (Control) Mean Median SEM SD TTEST Bleeding post-op 711 588 148 419 0.2465 Total Urine prod 3079 2993 335 948 0.8635 Crystalloid 4076 4220 460 1302 0.2783 Colloid 425 250 167 474 0.0110 SAG 157 0 104 293 0.1516 TRC 34 0 54 152 0.7500 Plasma 132 0 136 386 0.0811 Tot in 4825 4720 660 1867 0.3476 Tot vb post-op 1194 1439 350 989 0.3488 Fluid balance Post-op (Test) Mean Median SEM SD Bleeding post-op 945 700 222 628 Total Urine prod 3067 2680 429 1213 Crystalloid 4531 4548 459 1298 Colloid 174 0 84 238 SAG 326 0 181 512 TRC 51 0 58 165 Plasma 503 0 263 743 Tot in 5299 5137 582 1645 Tot vb post-op 1667 1328 549 1553 REFERENCES Mellbye et al., 1988, Complement Activation during Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Comparison between the Use of Large Volumes of Plasma and Dextran 70, Eur. surg. Res. 20: 101-109 Griffel et al., 1992, Pharmacology of Colloids and Crystalloids, Critical Care Clinics 80 (2): 235-253 Boldt et al., 2009, Cardiopulmonary Bypass Priming Using a High Dose of a Balanced Hydroxyethyl Starch Versus an Albumin-Based Priming Strategy, International Anaesthesia Research Society 109 (6):1752-1762 Tigchelaar et al., 1997, Hemostatic effects of three colloid plasma substitutes for priming solution in cardiopulmonary bypass, European Journal of Cardio - thoracic Surgery 11: 626-632 Gu et al., January 2006, Selection of priming solutions for cardiopulmonary bypass in adults, Multimedia Manual ofCcardiothoracic Surgery: 1-9 Lancon et al., 1990, Prospective randomized study of albumin and dextran 40 as priming fluid for cardiopulmonary bypass, Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia 4 (6): 34-34 McDaniel et al., 1994, Hypertonic Saline Dextran Prime Reduces Increased Intracranial Pressure During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Pigs, Anesth. Analg. 78: 435-441 Iriz et al., 2005, Comparison of Hydroxyethyl Starch and Ringer Lactate as a Prime Solution Regarding S-10013 Protein Levels and Informative Cognitive Tests in Cerebral Injury, Ann. Thorac. Surg. 79: 666-671 Spiess, 2001, Blood Transfusion: The Silent Epidemic, Ann. Thorac. Surg. 72: S1832-1837 Petroianu et al., 2000, The Effect of In Vitro Hemodilution with Gelatin, Dextran, Hydroxyethyl Starch, or Ringer's Solution on Thrombelastograph, Anesth. Analg. 90: 795-800 Grocott et al., 2002, Resuscitation fluids, Vox Sanguinis 82: 1-8 Lee et al., 1975, Clinical Evaluation of Priming Solutions for Pumping Oxygenator Perfusion, The Annals of Thoracic Surgery 19 (5): 529-536
The present invention relates to priming solutions used during cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. In particular, the present invention relates to a cardiopulmonary bypass priming solution comprising a balanced salt solution and a combination of oncotic and non-oncotic dextran molecules. The present invention also relates to the use of the priming solution in a cardiopulmonary bypass method, a method of maintaining oncotic pressure in a patient during a cardiopulmonary bypass procedure, and a combination of cardiopulmonary bypass priming solution and cardiopulmonary bypass apparatus.
0
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This patent application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/439,966, HIGH-DENSITY REMOVABLE EXPANSION MODULE HAVING I/O AND SECOND-LEVEL-REMOVABLE EXPANSION MEMORY, filed Nov. 12, 1999, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application Serial No. 09/309,373, CLOSED-CASE REMOVABLE EXPANSION CARD HAVING I/O AND REMOVABLE MEMORY, filed May 11, 1999, all of the foregoing applications being incorporated by reference herein. FIELD [0002] The invention is related to removable expansion modules or cards for computer hosts, such modules having particular application to portable computing hosts such as hand-held computing devices. BACKGROUND [0003] The broad use of portable host computers, including laptops, notebooks, palmtops, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), and hand-held computers (hand-helds), has been severely hampered by limited capabilities for expansion or customization. Expansion and application customization has been performed via only one, or at most two, slots for removable expansion modules for I/O, I/O adapters, memories, and memory adapters. Memory expansion cards have included DRAM, SRAM, ROM, and Flash technologies. I/O expansion modules have included dedicated peripherals, networking, modems, wireless communications, serial I/O, and bar-code and other scanners. [0004] Having only one slot meant choosing between memory or peripheral expansion. In two-slot implementations, one of the slots is generally used for peripheral expansion, and the other for memory expansion. As market forces and consumer demand are pushing future PDAs to be ever smaller, allocating packaging volume for two-slots will be increasingly viewed as a costly and nonviable solution. [0005] If not further qualified, a general reference in this specification and the attached claims to the terms “expansion module” or “expansion card,” and possibly prefaced by “removable,” should be construed as a general reference to a class of generally enclosed compact expansion devices that provide fast, reliable, and robust repeated field insertion, removal, handling, and storage, ideally suited for closed-case, user-serviceable, plug-in expansion of portable and hand-held computing devices. If not further qualified, a general reference in this specification and the attached claims to the term “slot,” should be construed as a reference to the physical and electrical means by which a portable computing device receives a removable expansion module of the class just defined. A reference in this specification and the attached claims to the terms “closed-case,” or “sealed-case,” serves to indicate that insertion and removal of an expansion device does not involve significant reconfiguration or removal of the external casing of the computing device. Closed-case is not meant to foreclose the possible user removal of a protective access panel or the user opening of a hinged access door. Nor is it meant to foreclose that the casing may need to be removed for more significant events best performed by a qualified service person. [0006] Memory and Expansion Module Standards [0007] Two of the most popular industry standards for the slots and removable cards are the PC Card and the CompactFlash Card. The PC Card has a 16-bit variant, previously known as a PCMCIA card, and a newer 32-bit variant, also known as a Card-Bus card. PC Cards include Type I, Type II, and Type III devices. If not further qualified, a general reference to PC Cards in this specification and the attached claims should be construed to refer to any of the Card-Bus (32-bit), PCMCIA (16-bit), Type I, Type II, or Type III PC Card variants. [0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,815,426 ('426), ADAPTER FOR INTERFACING AN INSERTABLE/REMOVABLE DIGITAL MEMORY APPARATUS TO A HOST DATA PART, assigned to Nexcom Technology, and hereby incorporated by reference, describes these and other removable expansion card and memory types suitable for PDAs. In addition to the PC Card and CompactFlash Card formats, the '426 patent includes discussions of and references to Miniature Cards, Sold State Floppy Disk Cards (SSFDCs), MultiMediaCards (MMC), Integrated Circuit (IC) Cards (also known as Smart Cards), and Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) Cards. [0009] CompactFlash Standards [0010] [0010]FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 are different views of a prior art Type II CompactFlash Card. The physical, electrical, and software interface architecture of CompactFlash Cards (CF+ Cards and CF Cards) is taught in the CompactFlash Specification Revision 1.3, Copyright 1998, and the CF+ and CompactFlash Specification Revision 1.4, Copyright 1999, both by the CompactFlash Association (CFA), P.O. Box 51537, Palo Alto, Calif. 94303, and both of which are hereby incorporated by reference. FIGS. 1, 2, 3 , part of 10 , and part of 11 are reproduced or derived from the CompactFlash Specification Revision 1.3 document. Strictly speaking, CompactFlash nomenclature uses CF to denote cards that are primarily limited to flash data storage, and uses CF+ to denote cards that may have any or all of: flash data storage, I/O devices, and magnetic disk data storage. CF and CF+ cards presently include Type I (3.3 mm thick) and Type II (5 mm thick) devices. Both Type I and Type II CF cards are 36.4 mm long by 42.8 mm wide, or roughly “matchbook-sized.” A Type III device is being defined as discussed in a later section herein. If not further qualified, a general reference to CompactFlash (or CF) in this specification and the attached claims should be construed to refer to any of the CF, CF+, Type I, Type II, or Type III CompactFlash variants. [0011] U.S. Pat. No. 5,887,145 ('145), REMOVABLE MOTHER/DAUGHTER PERIPHERAL CARD, assigned to SanDisk Corporation, and hereby incorporated by reference, describes the required features of host systems for CompactFlash Cards, including controllers required by CompactFlash memory cards (CF cards) and comprehensive controllers required by CompactFlash memory and I/O cards (CF+ cards). [0012] MultiMediaCard [0013] [0013]FIGS. 4 and 5 represent a prior art MultiMediaCard form factor and its pad definitions. FIGS. 6 and 7 represent the prior art internal architecture of a generic MultiMediaCard and its registers. FIG. 8 illustrates the prior art functional partitioning of a generic MultiMediaCard system. FIG. 9 illustrates the prior art physical partitioning of a generic MultiMediaCard system. [0014] The MMC and MMC related system issues are taught in the MultimediaCard System Summary Version 2.0, Copyright January 1999, by the MultiMediaCard Association, 19672 Stevens Creek Blvd., #404, Cupertino, Calif. 95014 - 2465 , which is hereby incorporated by reference. FIGS. 4, 5, 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , and part of 10 are reproduced or derived from the MultimediaCard System Summary document. [0015] [0015]FIGS. 10 and 11 are different views comparing the form factors of the prior art CompactFlash Card (top) and MultiMediaCard (bottom). In each of 10 and 11 , the CompactFlash Card and the MultiMediaCard are both roughly to equal scale. [0016] Adapters for Removable Memories [0017] Adapters exist or have been prophetically disclosed for physically and electrically coupling a removable memory on a slide, or stick, to a portable host via a removable expansion card of either the PCMCIA Card or CompactFlash Card form factors. The previously mentioned '426 patent describes such removable memory adapters. The focus of these existing memory adapters has been limited to merely providing an interface adapter, or bridge, between a first interface type (the host to removable-expansion-card interface) and a second interface type (the removable memory stick). [0018] PC Card Mother and CompactFlash Card Daughter Combinations [0019] Adapters exist or have been prophetically disclosed that comprise a special mother PC Card designed to accept one or more daughter CompactFlash Cards of one or more types. The previously '145 patent describes such CompactFlash adapters. The focus of these existing mother/daughter combinations has also been limited. First, the daughters have been used for memory expansion for the host platform, primarily in the form of flash-memory-based mass-storage-like devices. In this first approach, the mother card provides the requisite mass-storage controller functionality. Second, the daughters have been used for dedicated peripheral, I/O, or communication functions. In this second approach, the mother card has a so-called comprehensive controller that augments the mass-storage controller functionality with functions commonly required or useful to multiple daughter cards. Third, in a variation of either of the first two paradigms, functions of the general-purpose host may be relocated to the mother card. [0020] Open-Back Module Expansion Standards [0021] The previously discussed expansion module (or card) implementations have been of a first type wherein the module is mated with a closed-back mother device by (full or partial) insertion into a receiving chamber that is inside the external casing of the mother device. The chamber usually is of a standardized minimum width and insertion depth. The module insertion into the chamber is facilitated by edge-guides internal to the chamber and insertion is (usually) via a standardized minimum width x minimum height circumscribed portal (mouth, or orifice) in the mother device's external casing. The chamber portal is sometimes protected by a hinged or removable access panel or by a stub (a dummy card with an external end flanged to block off most of the portal) inserted into the chamber. According to this first type, the modules are designed to have dimensions compatible with the insertion depth x width, edge guides, and width x height orifice of the chamber. [0022] For hand-held computer or PDA applications, a second type of expansion card also exists. The second type of expansion card makes use of an “open-back” (or open-face) industrial design approach previously applied to other hand-held devices, such as cellular telephones. In open-back hand-held devices, a standardized back-mount is made integral to the device. Families of removable components (such as batteries), varying widely in size and make-up but otherwise interchangeable, are designed to be compatible to the standardized back-mount. For open-back devices, the industrial design form-factor (appearance and volume) becomes a function of both the device and the mated component. [0023] As applied to a hand-held mother device, an open-face expansion module is mated with a companion open-back device by (full or partial) insertion into a receiving recess of (usually) standardized width x minimum depth that is integral to, but substantially on the outside of, the device. The module insertion into the recess is via (usually) standardized module-edge guides incorporated into the open recess of the device. In a manner not unlike that for cards in closed-back expansion applications, open-face modules are designed to have dimensions compatible with the width x minimum depth and edge guides of the device recess. But since the recess of an open-back device by definition has no circumscribed portal, the module height and shape are largely unrestricted. Instead the height and shape of the interchangeable modules are restricted only by bounds imposed by practical utility, bounds imposed to avoid mechanical interference with other objects in common system configurations, and bounds imposed by ergonometric concerns. [0024] Expansion modules for the Handspring Visor hand-held computer are an example of open-face expansion modules. These modules are designed in accordance with the Handspring Springboard expansion slot. The technology of the Springboard slot is publicly disclosed in a number of documents published on the Handspring Web-Site (http:\\www.handspring.com). “The Springboard Platform,” is a Handspring “white-paper” that broadly summarizes the technology. “Development Kit for Handspring Hand-held Computers,” Release 1.0, Document No. 800004-00, printed in 1999, gives a detailed description targeted at developers of Springboard modules. Open-face functionality is also proposed for next generation CompactFlash Type III (CF+ Type III) devices, whose specification is presently being defined by a working group within the Compact Flash Association. More specifically, the CF+ Type III devices are expected to enable hand-helds to continue to use the present 50-pin CompactFIash bus and connector, but make use of an open-back industrial design philosophy. [0025] Background for Expansion Module Based I/O Functions [0026] Techniques are known in the art for making and using systems that perform I/O functions in an expansion module. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,671,374 ('374), PCMCIA INTERFACE CARD COUPLING INPUT DEVICES SUCH AS BARCODE SCANNING ENGINES TO PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS AND PALMTOP COMPUTERS, assigned to TPS Electronics, which is hereby incorporated by reference. The '374 patent teaches the use of PDAs and similar hosts equipped with PC card interfaces for I/O devices including portable laser-scanners, magnetic stripe and ink readers, keyboards and keypads, OCR devices, and trackballs. [0027] Techniques are also known in the art for making and using PC Card-based radios for applications based in a portable host. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,519,577 ('577), SPREAD SPECTRUM RADIO INCORPORATED IN A PCMCIA TYPE II CARD HOLDER, assigned to Symbol Technologies, and hereby incorporated by reference. [0028] Techniques are also known in the art for making and using disk emulation devices based on flash memory. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,291,584 ('584), METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR HARD DISK EMULATION, assigned to Nexcom Technology, and hereby incorporated by reference. [0029] Background for Relevant Application Specific Functions [0030] Techniques are known in the art for making and using systems that download or capture compressed digital audio for storage and later playback using dedicated removable media. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,734 ('734), SYSTEM FOR TRANSMITTING DESIRED DIGITAL VIDEO OR AUDIO SIGNALS, assigned to Parsec Sight/Sound, and hereby incorporated by reference, teaches a system for transmitting digital video or audio signals over a telecommunications link from a first to a second party. In addition, U.S. Pat. No. 5,579,430 ('430), DIGITAL ENCODING PROCESS, assigned to Fraunhofer Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e.V., and hereby incorporated by reference, teaches processes for encoding digitized analog signals. Such processes are useful for insuring high-quality reproduction while reducing transmission bandwidth and data storage requirements. [0031] Techniques are also known in the art for making and using record and playback portable host devices based on a dedicated flash memory. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,491,774 ('774), HAND-HELD RECORD AND PLAYBACK DEVICE WITH FLASH MEMORY, assigned to Comp General Corporation, and hereby incorporated by reference, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,108 ('108), FLASH MEMORY FILE SYSTEM IN A HAND-HELD RECORD AND PLAYBACK DEVICE, assigned to Norris Communications, also hereby incorporated by reference. [0032] Limitations of Previous Approaches [0033] In general purpose portable hosts, populating a finite-volume expansion slot has meant choosing one of either removable memory or peripheral expansion for that slot. When used for memory expansion, the removable memory has been limited to use for the system or application software running on the host. In essence, the removable memory has only been used as host-dedicated memory. This was done either directly, e.g., as some portion of the main-memory of the host, or indirectly as an emulation substitute for host mass-storage (i.e., disk drives). When used for I/O expansion, the expansion I/O-cards have not had access to a private removable media/memory. This has prevented portable computer hosts, such as PDAs, from being used as a customizable platform for many application-specific functions that require a removable memory dedicated to the application. [0034] In general purpose portable hosts, populating a open-volume expansion slot has meant choosing one of either removable memory or peripheral expansion for that slot. SUMMARY [0035] The utility of portable computer hosts, such as PDAs (or hand-helds), is enhanced by methods and apparatus for removable expansion cards having application specific circuitry, a second-level-removable memory, and optional I/O, in a number of illustrative embodiments. The term “secondlevel” is intended to emphasize that while the expansion module is removable from a computer host at a first level of functionality, the expansion memory is independently removable from the expansion module, providing a second level of functionality. In addition to providing greater expansion utility in a compact and low profile industrial design, the present invention permits memory configuration versatility for application specific expansion cards, permitting easy user field selection and upgrades of the memory used in conjunction with the expansion card. Finally, from a system perspective, the present invention enables increased parallelism and functionality previously not available to portable computer devices. [0036] In one illustrative embodiment the removable memory is in combination with an external-I/O connector or permanently attached external-I/O device, providing both I/O and memory functions in a single closed-case removable expansion card. This increases the expansion functional density for portable computer hosts, such as PDAs. That is, it increases the amount of functionality that can be accommodated within a given volume allocation for expansion devices. It also provides a viable alternative to 2-slot implementations. [0037] In another illustrative embodiment the removable memory is a private memory for application specific circuitry within the closed-case-removable expansion card. This enhances the utility of portable computer hosts, such as PDAs, as universal chassises for application specific uses. [0038] Some of the illustrative embodiments make use of a Type II CompactFlash form factor, another uses a Type I form factor, but as discussed below, the invention is not limited to these particular form factors or to the CompactFlash expansion bus. As will be seen, the physical and electrical interface of the chosen expansion bus couples the expansion modules to the host, which may provide user interface functions for application specific modules. [0039] The modules according to some illustrative embodiments of the present invention include an end located slot and an internal connector for accepting a MultiMediaCard (MMC) as the private removable memory. Another embodiment instead uses a top-cavity to accept a MMC flush with the top of the module, capturing the MMC in place when the module is inserted into a PDA. [0040] In addition, the application specific card will generally have some manner of I/O to required external devices, such as scanning devices, sensors, or transducers. Otherwise, all functionality for the application specific function is self-contained within the application specific card. [0041] Particular application specific cards for customizing general purpose PDAs via the instant invention include a media-player card for digitized media stored on removable memory and a bar-code-scanner card having scanning data stored on removable memory. [0042] Sample Illustrative Methods and Apparatus [0043] This summary section concludes with a collection of paragraphs that tersely summarize illustrative methods and apparatus in accordance with the invention. It is intended that these summary paragraphs add no matter beyond that disclosed in the specification and originally filed claims of the parent application (U.S. application Ser. No. 09/439,966, previously incorporated by reference). Interpretation of these paragraphs should be controlled by that intent. Each of the summary paragraphs highlights various combinations of features using an informal pseudo-claim format. These compressed descriptions are not meant to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive and the invention is not limited to these highlighted combinations. As is discussed in more detail in the Conclusion section, the invention encompasses all possible modifications and variations within the scope of the issued claims, which are appended to the very end of the patent. [0044] A first removable expansion card for a portable host, comprising: an expansion card frame and PCB, a host-interconnect for coupling with the host, an I/O interconnect for coupling with an external I/O device, I/O adapter circuitry for the I/O device, a slot for a removable memory, and removable memory adapter circuitry for the removable memory. The foregoing removable expansion card, wherein the card is a CompactFlash card. The first removable expansion card, wherein the removable memory slot is compatible with a MultiMediaCard, and the removable memory adapter circuitry is MultiMediaCard adapter circuitry. The first removable expansion card, wherein the I/O adapter circuitry is a serial I/O adapter and the I/O-interconnect includes a cable having a standard serial connector. The first removable expansion card, wherein the I/O adapter circuitry is a local area network adapter and the I/O-interconnect includes a cable having a standard local area network connector. The first removable expansion card, wherein the I/O adapter circuitry is a parallel adapter and the I/O-interconnect includes a cable having a standard parallel connector. The first removable expansion card, wherein the I/O-interconnect is a Honda-style 15-pin connector integral to the card. The first removable expansion card, wherein the card is designed to abut and fasten with at least part of the I/O device such that the I/O-interconnect for coupling with the I/O device is cableless. [0045] A second removable expansion card for a portable host, comprising: an expansion card frame and PCB, the PCB having decoder and reconstruction circuitry for digitally encoded media, the decoder and reconstruction circuitry having a first low-level analog signal output, the card having a slot for a removable memory holding at least one digitally encoded instance of at least one media type, the card including removable memory adapter circuitry for interfacing with the removable memory, and the card having analog electronics for providing a media output. The foregoing removable expansion card, wherein the card is a CompactFlash card. The second removable expansion card, wherein the removable memory slot is compatible with a MultiMediaCard and the removable memory adapter circuitry is a MultiMediaCard adapter circuitry. The second removable expansion card, wherein the digitally encoded media is encoded in accordance with the MP3 standard. The second removable expansion card, wherein the digitally encoded media is encoded in accordance with the Microsoft Digital Audio standard. The second removable expansion card, wherein the playback of the digitally encoded media is initiated automatically upon insertion of the removable memory. The second removable expansion card, wherein the card further includes: a radio-frequency receiver providing a second low-level analog signal output, a low-level selector coupled to the first and second low-level analog signal outputs and providing an input to the analog electronics, and antenna coupling electronics associated with the media output for use with a headset designed to function as an antenna for the radio-frequency receiver. The second removable expansion card, wherein the card further includes a local area network adapter. The foregoing removable expansion card, wherein the local area network adapter is an Ethernet adapter. [0046] A first method, the first method being a method of digitally encoded media playback, the first method comprising: providing a PDA, providing an expansion card for the PDA having playback circuitry for the digitally encoded media, providing a slot in the expansion card for receiving a removable memory, providing the removable memory, providing I/O coupling from the PDA to an external system, transferring the digitally encoded media from the external system to the PDA, transferring the digitally encoded media from the PDA to the expansion card, storing the digitally encoded media from the expansion card to the removable memory, after storing later reading the digitally encoded media from the removable memory, decoding the digitally encoded media and producing a reconstructed media, coupling the reconstructed media to a media output of the expansion card, providing application software for the PDA to provide user interface functions using the display and input devices of the PDA for controlling the storing and playback of the digitally encoded media. The foregoing method, further wherein the I/O coupling includes a local area network connection and the external system includes an Internet web-site. The first method, wherein the digitally encoded media is encoded in accordance with the MP3 standard. The first method, wherein the digitally encoded media is encoded in accordance with the Microsoft Digital Audio standard. The first method, wherein the playback of the digitally encoded media is initiated automatically upon insertion of the removable memory. [0047] A removable expansion card for a portable host, comprising: an expansion card frame and PCB, the card having serial I/O circuitry, the card having a serial I/O interconnect compatible with the serial I/O of a digital telephone, the card having a slot for a removable memory holding data including address book records, the serial I/O interconnect providing communication between the telephone and the card of the data associated with the removable memory, the card including removable memory adapter circuitry for interfacing with the removable memory. [0048] A removable expansion card for a portable host, comprising: an expansion card frame and PCB, the card having serial I/O circuitry, the card having a serial I/O interconnect compatible with the serial I/O of a digital telephone, the card having a slot for a removable memory for holding data including digitally encoded telephone communications, the serial I/O interconnect providing communication between the telephone and the card of the data associated with the removable memory, the card including removable memory adapter circuitry for interfacing with the removable memory. [0049] A removable expansion card for a portable host, comprising: an expansion card frame and PCB, the card having serial I/O circuitry, the card having a serial I/O interconnect compatible with the serial I/O of a digital telephone, the card having a slot for a removable memory holding data including address book records and digitally encoded telephone communications, the serial I/O interconnect providing communication between the telephone and the card of the data associated with the removable memory, the card including removable memory adapter circuitry for interfacing with the removable memory. [0050] A removable expansion card for a portable host, comprising: an expansion card frame and PCB, the card having serial I/O circuitry, the card having a serial I/O interconnect compatible with the serial I/O of a GPS receiver, the card having a slot for a removable memory holding data including map information, the serial I/O interconnect providing communication between the GPS receiver and the card of the data associated with the removable memory, the card including removable memory adapter circuitry for interfacing with the removable memory. The foregoing removable expansion card, wherein the map information includes information about city streets. [0051] A removable expansion card for a portable host, comprising: an expansion card frame and PCB, a host interface, interconnect for an external I/O device, and I/O adapter for the I/O device, an internal connector for a removable memory, a slot in the expansion card frame for the removable memory, controller logic for the removable memory. The foregoing removable expansion card, further including application-specific circuitry, and wherein the removable memory is a private memory for the application-specific circuitry, the management of the removable memory being an ancillary function to the primary function of the specific application. The foregoing removable expansion card, wherein the I/O adapter is coupled to the application-specific circuitry and is not coupled to the PDA. [0052] A second method, the second method being a method of customizing a PDA for an application-specific function, the second method comprising: providing a PDA, providing an expansion card for the PDA having application-specific circuitry, providing a slot in the expansion card for receiving a removable memory, providing removable memory adapter circuitry within the expansion card for the removable memory, providing the removable memory to the expansion card, reading and writing the removable memory by the removable memory adapter circuitry in accordance with the application-specific function, providing application software for the PDA to provide user interface functions using the display and input devices of the PDA for controlling the application-specific function. A third method, including the second method and further including: providing an I/O adapter within the card, providing I/O coupling from the I/O adapter to an external system, and transferring data between the external system and the I/O adapter. A fourth method, including the third method and further including transferring the data between the I/O adapter and the PDA. The third method, wherein the I/O adapter is a network adapter, and wherein the I/O coupling includes a network connection, and the external system includes a web-site. A fifth method, including the fourth method and further wherein at least one of the PDA and the card have at least a first and a second power mode and a message received over the network by the card selectively results in a transition from the first power mode to the second power mode The third method, wherein the I/O adapter is a communications receiver, and wherein the I/O coupling includes a communications link, and the external system includes a communications transmitter. The fifth method, wherein at least one of the PDA and the card have at least a first and a second power mode and a message received over the communications link by the card selectively results in a transition from the first power mode to the second power mode. The third method, wherein at least part of the external system is abutted and fastened to the expansion card such that the I/O coupling is cableless. [0053] A slot assembly for a removable expansion memory comprising: a PCB; an I/O connector mounted on PCB providing first partial bottom of slot; guide/connector assembly mounted on PCB having connector fingers and providing second partial bottom of slot, rear sides of slot, and slot back stop; upper outside frame of expansion card frame providing front sides of slot; and lid of expansion card providing top of slot. [0054] A slot assembly for a removable expansion memory, the slot assembly comprising: an expansion module kit, the kit including a PCB, an I/O connector mounted on one end of the PCB, a lower outside frame, and an upper outside frame, the upper outside frame having an opening on the I/O connector side of the kit to both conform to the I/O connector and permit and laterally guide the insertion of the expansion memory above the I/O connector; and a plurality of contact fingers mechanically and electrically coupled to the PCB. [0055] A connector assembly for a removable expansion module having a removable expansion memory slot for a removable expansion memory, the expansion module having a printed circuit board chassis, the assembly comprising: an insulating shelf; a first plurality of spring contact fingers for contacting the removable expansion memory, the fingers being attached to the shelf; and a second plurality of solderable leads attached to the shelf for solder attachment of the shelf to the printed circuit board chassis, at least a first plurality of the second plurality of leads having respective electrical continuity with the first plurality of spring contact fingers. [0056] A first removable/removable expansion module for PDAs. The foregoing removable/removable expansion module, wherein the module uses an internal expansion memory slot. [0057] A second removable/removable expansion module for PDAs, using the foregoing connector assembly. The foregoing removable/removable expansion module, wherein the module uses a closed-back industrial design (ID). The foregoing removable/removable expansion module, wherein the closed-back ID uses an expansion standard selected from the set substantially comprising CF+ Type I and CF+ Type II. A third removable/removable expansion module including the second removable/removable expansion module and further wherein the module uses an open-back ID. The foregoing removable/removable expansion module, wherein the open-back ID uses Springboard. The foregoing removable/removable expansion module, wherein expansion module is flush with PDA case. The third removable/removable expansion module, wherein the open-back ID uses CF+ Type III. [0058] A fourth removable/removable for a PDA, wherein an expansion memory is captured by the combination of the expansion module (with an expansion memory interface) and the upper slot wall of the PDA. [0059] An expansion module with a recess in its top for conformably receiving an expansion memory. [0060] A method of inserting an expansion memory into an expansion module through the top of the module. [0061] A method of face-wise insertion of a planar expansion memory into an expansion module. [0062] A method of insertion of an expansion memory into an expansion module, wherein subsequent to alignment of the memory with the receiving opening, the relative alignment of two similar points in any plane of the module and any plane of the memory remains generally constant during the insertion of the memory. [0063] A method of insertion of an expansion memory into an expansion module, wherein the distance between the major surface planes of the module and the major surface plane of the memory changes during the insertion of the memory. [0064] A method of insertion of an expansion memory into an expansion module, wherein the expansion memory is submerged into the top of the expansion module. [0065] A method of insertion of an expansion memory into an expansion module, wherein the expansion module and memory are maintained to be generally coplanar while the expansion memory is generally vertically inserted into an opening in the top of the expansion module. [0066] A method of insertion of an expansion memory into an expansion module, wherein the expansion memory is stacked within an open recess in the top of the expansion module. [0067] A method of insertion of an expansion memory into an expansion module, wherein the flat of the expansion memory is inserted into an expansion memory receptacle countersunk in the top lid of the expansion module. [0068] An expansion module lid with a cavity the shape of an expansion memory module. [0069] An expansion module lid with an opening for contact fingers for an expansion memory. [0070] Any of the foregoing methods or apparatus, further including downloads over Internet intended for such a device. [0071] Any of the foregoing methods or apparatus, further including generation of the signals found on the expansion bus to communicate between such a device and a host. [0072] Any of the foregoing methods or apparatus, further including generation of signals found on the I/O connector to communicate between such a device and a peripheral. [0073] Any of the foregoing methods or apparatus, further including software written for such expansion modules. [0074] Any of the foregoing methods or apparatus, further including ROMs designed for use in such systems. [0075] Any of the foregoing methods or apparatus, further including accomplishing product configuration via such a device. [0076] Methods or apparatus in accordance with the invention having use in one of three modes (Memory only, I/O only, and Memory and I/O). [0077] Methods or apparatus in accordance with the invention having a second-socket-in-a-first-socket, and wherein the first socket is an expansion bus interface and the second socket is a memory expansion interface. The foregoing methods or apparatus, further including a third-socket-in-the-first-socket, where the third socket is an I/O interface. [0078] Methods or apparatus in accordance with the invention having a specific application expansion module/card for use with a PDA and a digital cell phone, wherein the expansion module/card provides the PDA with a modem and a comm link for coupling to the cell phone, thereby providing wireless modem functionality to the PDA, and an expansion memory coupled to the expansion module/card provides storage for Internet downloads. The foregoing methods or apparatus, wherein the downloads may include email, MP3 audio, or streaming video, which is stored to non-volatile expansion memory. [0079] Methods or apparatus for a PDA and expansion module combination in accordance with the invention, the combination having data flows among three interfaces in any combinatorial combination. The foregoing methods or apparatus, wherein the three interfaces include: a serial bus interface in the PDA, the expansion bus interface coupling the PDA and the expansion module, and the expansion memory interface in the expansion module. [0080] Methods or apparatus for PDA applications in accordance with the invention, the PDA applications having data flows among three interfaces in any combinatorial combination. The foregoing methods or apparatus, wherein the three interfaces include: a serial bus interface in the PDA, an expansion bus interface coupling the PDA and an expansion module, and the expansion memory interface in the expansion module. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0081] [0081]FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 are different views of a prior art Type II CompactFlash card. [0082] [0082]FIGS. 4 and 5 represent a prior art MultiMediaCard form factor and its pad definitions. [0083] [0083]FIGS. 6 and 7 represent the prior art internal architecture of a generic MultiMediaCard and its registers. [0084] [0084]FIG. 8 illustrates the prior art functional partitioning of a generic MultiMediaCard system. [0085] [0085]FIG. 9 illustrates the prior art physical partitioning of a generic MultiMediaCard system. [0086] [0086]FIGS. 10 and 11 compares the form factors of the prior art CompactFlash card (top) and MultiMediaCard (bottom). [0087] [0087]FIG. 12 illustrates a PDA equipped with a removable expansion card having both I/O and removable memory in accordance with the present invention. [0088] [0088]FIG. 13 illustrates a PDA equipped with a removable open-face expansion card having both I/O and removable memory in accordance with the present invention. [0089] [0089]FIG. 14 illustrates some of the various types of I/O for which the PDA and removable expansion card of FIG. 12 may be equipped. [0090] [0090]FIG. 15 illustrates some of the various types of I/O for which the PDA and removable open-face expansion card of FIG. 13 may be equipped. [0091] [0091]FIG. 16 is an abstract drawing representing the removable expansion card of FIG. 12 separate from the PDA, and with the I/O and memory disengaged from the removable expansion card. [0092] [0092]FIG. 17 is an abstract drawing representing the construction detail of the upper and lower frame of the removable expansion card of FIG. 12. [0093] [0093]FIG. 18 is an abstract drawing representing an exploded view of the removable expansion card of FIG. 12, including the outer frame, inner PCB, and connectors. [0094] [0094]FIG. 19 is an abstract drawing representing a view of the removable expansion card of FIG. 12, with the outer frame removed, and a removable memory roughly aligned with the contact fingers to which it mates within the removable expansion card. [0095] [0095]FIG. 20 is an abstract drawing representing a cut away side view of the removable expansion card of FIG. 12, with the removable memory inserted into the removable expansion card. [0096] [0096]FIG. 21 is an abstract drawing representing an end view silhouette of the removable expansion card of FIG. 12. [0097] [0097]FIG. 22 is an abstract drawing representing a cross-sectional view silhouette of the upper frame member of the removable expansion card of FIG. 12. [0098] [0098]FIG. 23 is an axonometric projection of a prior art assembly that includes a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), a connector for mating with a PDA, and a connector for mating with external I/O. [0099] [0099]FIG. 24 is an axonometric projection of a contact finger assembly for making electrical connection with the second-level-removable expansion memory. [0100] [0100]FIG. 25 is an axonometric projection of the upper section of a CF Type II frame in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [0101] [0101]FIG. 26 is an axonometric projection of a CF Type II top case, comprising the upper section of the CF frame of FIG. 25 with a metal panel top, and in accordance with the present invention. [0102] [0102]FIG. 27 is an axonometric projection of a prior art lower section of a CF Type II frame. [0103] [0103]FIG. 28 is an axonometric projection of a prior art CF Type II bottom case, comprising the lower section of FIG. 27 with a metal panel bottom. [0104] [0104]FIG. 29 is an axonometric projection of a prior art assembly that includes a CF Type II expansion card bottom case and the assembly of FIG. 23. [0105] [0105]FIG. 30 is an axonometric projection of an assembly that includes the assembly of FIG. 29 with an MMC connector mounted on the Printed Circuit Board. [0106] [0106]FIG. 31 is an axonometric projection of the assembly of FIG. 30 with a CF Type II expansion card top case without metal top. [0107] [0107]FIG. 32 is an axonometric projection of the assembly of FIG. 31 with a metal top, forming the complete CF Type II module, together with an inserted MMC. [0108] [0108]FIG. 33 is a multiview orthographic projection of the assembly of FIG. 29. [0109] [0109]FIG. 34 is a multiview orthographic projection of the assembly of FIG. 30. [0110] [0110]FIG. 35 is a multiview orthographic projection of the assembly of FIG. 31. [0111] [0111]FIG. 36 is a multiview orthographic projection of the assembly of FIG. 35 with a metal top, forming the complete CF Type II module, together with an inserted MMC. [0112] [0112]FIG. 37 identifies a cross-section plane (on the left) and shows the corresponding cross-section view (on the right) of the assembly of FIG. 32. [0113] [0113]FIG. 38 shows an axonometric projection of an expansion card according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention that has an open recess for receiving an expansion memory. [0114] [0114]FIG. 39 is a cross section view of the expansion card of FIG. 38. [0115] [0115]FIG. 40 illustrates a PDA having a closed-back industrial design, equipped with a top-cavity expansion module, and coupled to various types of I/O, in accordance with the present invention. [0116] [0116]FIG. 41 illustrates a PDA having a open-back industrial design, equipped with a top-cavity expansion module, and coupled to various types of I/O, in accordance with the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0117] Components of the Expansion Card [0118] [0118]FIG. 16 is an abstract drawing representing a closed-case removable expansion card 100 , i.e., an expansion card that may be inserted into and removed out of a closed-case computer host. The card is especially suitable for use in a portable host, such as a PDA. In accordance with the present invention, the expansion card of FIG. 16 includes a connector 141 for I/O interconnect and a slot 121 for a removable memory. FIG. 16 shows the I/O interconnect 140 and removable memory 120 disengaged from the removable expansion card. [0119] [0119]FIG. 17 is an abstract drawing representing the construction detail of the upper 105 and lower 110 frame members of the removable expansion card 100 of FIG. 16. An opening 111 is provided in the lower frame 110 for receiving the connector 141 for I/O interconnect. [0120] [0120]FIG. 18 is an abstract drawing representing an exploded view of the removable expansion card 100 of FIG. 16, including the outer frame, inner PCB 115 , and connectors. Visible for the first time in the view of FIG. 18, a second opening 113 is provided in the lower frame 110 for receiving the connector 150 for host interconnect. Additionally, a slot 112 is provided on both sides of the opening 111 to aid in the alignment and retention of the connector 141 , and a slot 114 is provided on both sides of opening 113 to aid in the alignment and retention of the connector 150 . An opening 116 is provided in the PCB for receiving the connector 141 . [0121] [0121]FIG. 19 is an abstract drawing representing a view of the removable expansion card 100 of FIG. 16, with the outer frame members removed, and a removable memory 120 roughly aligned with the contact fingers 180 to which it mates within the removable expansion card. Circuitry 160 is provided, including I/O adapter circuitry, removable memory adapter circuitry, and application-specific circuitry. A support shelf 170 supports, aligns, separates, and isolates the underside of the contact fingers 180 from the circuitry 160 . [0122] [0122]FIG. 20 is an abstract drawing representing a cut away side view of the removable expansion card 100 of FIG. 16, with the removable memory 120 inserted into the removable expansion card. [0123] [0123]FIG. 21 is an abstract drawing representing an end view silhouette of the removable expansion card 100 of FIG. 16. FIG. 22 is an abstract drawing representing a cross-sectional view silhouette of the upper frame member 105 of the removable expansion card 100 of FIG. 16. Guides 190 provide alignment and support for removable memory inserted via slot 121 . [0124] In an illustrative embodiment, the expansion card 100 and associated host connector 150 are compatible with the Type II CompactFlash Card as described in the previously referenced CompactFlash Specification. The I/O connector 141 is compatible with a PC-Card industry standard Honda-style 15-pin connector. The slot 121 , removable memory 120 , and removable memory adapter circuitry of circuitry 160 , are compatible with the MultiMediaCard as described in the previously referenced MultiMediaCard System Summary. [0125] Details of Component Assemblies and Stages of Assembly [0126] [0126]FIG. 23 through FIG. 28 are axonometric projections showing the component assemblies for a CF Type II expansion card illustrative embodiment of the expansion module of FIG. 16 and in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 23 shows a prior art assembly that includes a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), an expansion bus connector (a CompactFlash bus connector is shown) for mating with a PDA, and a connector for mating with external I/O (a 15-pin Honda-style connector is shown). Note that while the general existence of holes in such PCBs and such PCB assemblies is prior art, and the assembly of FIG. 23 (and its later use in FIG. 29) is designated as such, as discussed below, the specific function and placement of the holes shown in the PCB of FIG. 23 is particular to the present invention, and is not found in the prior art. [0127] [0127]FIG. 24 shows a contact finger assembly for making electrical connection with the second-level-removable expansion memory. The underside of the contact finger assembly additionally has four alignment pins, two underneath the ends of each of the far side portions of the assembly. These pins and the assembly as a whole engage the PCB by way of matching alignment holes drilled in the PCB. Prior to mounting the contact finger assembly onto the PCB, a solder paste is applied to the PCB. The contact assembly and PCB will be ultimately reflow soldered, permanently attaching the contact assembly to the PCB. [0128] The PCB acts as a chassis, supporting the expansion bus connector, the I/O connector, the contact finger assembly, and the application specific active circuitry of the expansion module. In the particular embodiment shown, due to space constraints on the topside of the PCB, the active circuitry is limited to the bottom side of the PCB. However, the use of other connectors and other contact finger assemblies will generally enable placement of active circuitry on the topside of the PCB. [0129] [0129]FIG. 25 illustrates the upper section 105 of a CF Type II frame in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 26 diagrams a CF Type II top case, comprising the upper section of the CF frame of FIG. 25 with a metal panel top, and in accordance with the present invention. “Hooks” 190 are formed into the upper section, specifically to act (in conjunction with the metal panel top) as a slotted guide for insertion of the expansion memory. FIG. 27 shows a prior art lower section of a CF Type II frame. FIG. 28 illustrates a prior art CF Type II bottom case, comprising the lower section of FIG. 27 with a metal panel bottom. [0130] [0130]FIG. 29 through FIG. 32 are axonometric projections showing the CF Type II expansion card in various stages of assembly using the component assemblies of FIG. 23 through FIG. 28. FIG. 29 illustrates a prior art assembly that includes a CF Type II expansion card bottom case (lower support frame with metal panel bottom) supporting the assembly of FIG. 23. FIG. 30 shows the contact finger assembly of FIG. 24 mounted and attached to the PCB chassis of FIG. 29. FIG. 31 adds a CF Type II expansion card top case, sans metal top, to the assembly of FIG. 30. FIG. 32 shows the completed CF Type II module, including the metal top, together with an inserted MMC. [0131] [0131]FIG. 33 through FIG. 36 are multiview orthographic projections of the assemblies in FIG. 29 through FIG. 32, respectively. FIG. 36 shows the completed CF Type II module, together with an inserted MMC. FIG. 37 identifies a cross-section plane (on the left) and shows the corresponding cross-section view (on the right) of the completed CF Type II module and inserted MMC of FIG. 32 and FIG. 36. [0132] Top-Cavity Embodiment [0133] [0133]FIG. 38 shows an axonometric projection of an expansion module according to an alternate illustrative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 39 is a cross section view of the expansion card of FIG. 38. The top case of this module has a cavity (an open recess) for receiving an expansion memory (an MMC in the illustration shown), the recess having the general shape of the expansion memory, but being slightly larger. The connector spring contacts for the memory emerge through the top of the case via one hole (a slot as shown), or a plurality of holes (slots) wherein each contact protrudes through a respective hole. In a preferred embodiment, the top-cavity expansion memory of FIG. 38 is implemented in the CF Type I form factor. The use of the CF Type I form factor for removable expansion modules having I/O and second-level removable memory is enabled by the use of the top-cavity and the general orientation shown for the expansion memory with respect to the I/O and expansion bus connectors (a 90-degree rotation compared to the non-top-cavity embodiments). [0134] Persons skilled in the art will recognize that such top-cavity modules may be readily implemented in either the closed-back or open-back industrial design approaches by appropriately varying the rail configuration of the package frame in accordance with the desired expansion module standard. [0135] The expansion memory is deposited into the receiving cavity, the top of the expansion memory being roughly flush to slightly above the outer perimeter of the top case. When the module is inserted into a compatible slot of a host device, the expansion memory is locked into the receiving cavity by the presence of the adjacent wall (or roof) of the slot. The connector spring contacts of the expansion module are depressed by the presence of the expansion memory, thus effecting the mating (electrical continuity) of these contacts with the contacts of the expansion memory. [0136] The top-cavity expansion module of FIG. 38 and FIG. 39 also has an I/O connector that is accessible for I/O functions, including any of those described herein. FIG. 40 illustrates a PDA having a closed-back industrial design, equipped with a top-cavity expansion module, and coupled to various types of I/O, in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 41 illustrates a PDA having a open-back industrial design, equipped with a top-cavity expansion module, and coupled to various types of I/O, in accordance with the present invention. [0137] Circuitry and Functionality of the Expansion Module [0138] In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, circuitry 160 includes I/O adapter circuitry and removable memory adapter circuitry. The I/O adapter functionality may include one or more of, but is not limited to, Ethernet, serial port, audio, telephone, antenna, and special-function interfaces such as bar code and other scanners. The removable memory adapter functionality may include one or more of, but is not limited to, main memory expansion, mass-media emulation, and other host-based special-purpose memory applications. [0139] In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, circuitry 160 further includes application-specific circuitry for which the management of the removable memory is an ancillary function to the primary function of the specific application. Specific examples of such application-specific expansion cards having both I/O and removable memory are provided in later sections. [0140] In preferred implementations of the illustrative embodiments mentioned above, the functions performed by the removable memory are those of a MultiMediaCard adapter as illustrated in the MultiMediaCard adapter section of the MultiMediaCard system architecture diagram of FIG. 8. If the removable memory is being used to provide host-base memory expansion, then the host must provide the functionality illustrated by the Application and Application Adapter sections of FIG. 8. If the removable memory is being used at least sometimes as an ancillary memory (at least sometimes private) to the application-specific circuitry contained on the expansion card, then the application-specific circuitry must provide the Application and Application Adapter section functionality, or else the application-specific circuitry must call on host services for such functionality. [0141] Examples of known techniques for making and using other types of memory adapter circuitry for closed-case expansion cards or with flash memory are found in the previously referenced '145, '426, '584, '774, and '108 patents, among others. Examples of known techniques for making and using I/O adapter and application-specific circuitry for functions implemented in closed-case expansion cards and with flash memory are found in the previously referenced '374, '577, '774, and '108 patents, among others. [0142] Frame Kit Assembly Details [0143] The top and bottom frames may be composed of metal or plastic. In a preferred embodiment, the top and bottom frame portions each have a plastic base augmented with an outer metal plate over much of the interior region of the large panel surface of each portion. The metal plate extends to the edges of the panel at the connector ends of each portion and is attached to both connectors. In addition, smaller metal strips, or ears, on both sides at the finger-grip end (opposite to the host connector) extend from the plate to the edges of the panel and continue onto the sides. The frame kit is assembled and the side strips are sonically welded together on both sides of the casings. The welded strips and plates form a single continuous metal band around the top and bottom frames that permanently physically retains the assembled kit. [0144] I/O Interconnect Options [0145] I/O devices may be interconnected with the expansion card via three different embodiments. First, a PC-Card industry-standard Honda-style 15-pin connector may be used with a mating detachable cable. Detachable cables are preferred for light-duty applications where a continuous I/O device connection is neither needed nor desired. Second, a fully integrated fixed cable, having a molded strain relief may be used. Such a fixed cable maintains solid contact in high vibration environments, is protected against lateral stress, and seals out dust. Fixed cables are preferred for dedicated industrial or field applications. Third, at least a portion of the I/O device may be abutted and attached (often via a snap-in-place mechanism) directly to the expansion card, obviating the need for either a detachable or fixed cable. Cableless snap-on I/O devices are preferred for small mostly self-contained I/O devices that permit a compact PDA, expansion-card, I/O-device combination that handles physically as a single piece of equipment. In the instant invention, such snap-on I/O devices must make allowance for the removable memory. [0146] PDA having Application Specific Card with Removable Media [0147] [0147]FIG. 12 illustrates a PDA 200 equipped with a removable expansion card 100 having both I/O interconnect 140 and removable memory 120 in accordance with the present invention. The application specific circuitry of the expansion card may be used in conjunction with application specific software running on the PDA. This permits the application specific circuitry of the expansion card to make use of the output (e.g., display, sound) and input (e.g., tablet, buttons, any I/O ports) capabilities of the PDA for user interface functions associated with the specific application. In particular the PDA's display/input-tablet provides for virtual controls and visual indicators for the application. FIG. 14 illustrates some of the various types of I/O for which the PDA and removable expansion card of FIG. 12 may be equipped. Application-specific functions may include special-function digital, analog, and mixed-signal electronics; special-function I/O; special-function data-pumps; and special-function accelerators. [0148] Expansion Module Based O/S Related Functions [0149] Techniques are known in the art for making and using systems that perform O/S related functions in conjunction with expansion modules. These techniques include: software enabled hot-swapping of expansion modules; auto launch of application programs specific to the inserted module; and “plug and play” ease of use via dynamic load of associated drivers on module insertion and dynamic unload of the associated drivers on module removal. Preferred embodiments of the application-specific expansion cards discussed herein will generally make use of these O/S related techniques. Unlike prior art systems, systems designed in accordance with the present invention will generally need to manage both I/O and memory device drivers. [0150] Modes of Use and Potential for Increased Parallelism [0151] Removable expansion modules according to the present invention may operate in a number of different modes. At a basic level, they may be used solely to interface an external peripheral to the host device via the I/O connector, they may be used solely to interface with a second-level-removable expansion memory with the host device, and they may be used to simultaneously interface the host device with both an external peripheral and an expansion memory. [0152] At a more general level, more advanced modes of operation are also possible. In a specific, but not limiting illustrative embodiment, FIG. 42 shows a PDA and an expansion module in accordance with a “fully connected” implementation of the present invention. The expansion module of FIG. 42 includes six major data transfer paths capable of simultaneous operation; application specific circuitry; and data buffers at each of the I/O, expansion bus, and expansion memory interfaces. Each of the data buffers generally has one or more stages of FIFO storage for each data path coupled to each buffer. The inclusion of any of the data buffers, the extent of FIFO buffering, the existence of any particular one of the data paths, and management of bridging transfers by the circuitry in the expansion module, are specific to a given application. [0153] Prior art PDAs 200 (or 250 ) have limited modes of use and can generally effect significant data transfers only between any of their integral main memory 210 , integral serial port 220 , and integral expansion module bus 1500 . The addition of prior art expansion modules to PDAs does not alter the number of significant data transfer paths or number of significant simultaneous data transfers. Clearly, the expansion module 1000 of FIG. 42 greatly increases the potential system-level parallelism over that of the prior-art. [0154] Application Specific Embodiments [0155] Generic Removable Media Applications [0156] The present invention enables general-purpose portable hosts to perform application-specific functions requiring dedicated ROM. A first large ROM-based application category is that of prerecorded media, such as music, audio, video, and text (for books, newspapers, and other publications). A second large ROM-based application category is customization for programmable devices, such as games, language translators, and other devices having “personality” modules. [0157] The present invention also enables general-purpose portable hosts to perform application-specific functions requiring non-volatile read/write memory for data-capture, data-logging, data-checkpoints or backups, transaction logging, and data-transport. [0158] In the illustrated embodiments the non-volatile read/write memory is flash memory in accordance with the standard MultiMediaCard. Such removable flash-memory-based application-specific functions have particular utility to medical and other data acquisition, secure commerce, financial and personal productivity devices making use of unique removable memories for each of multiple individuals, projects, or accounts. [0159] The removable flash-based memory is also well suited where “sneaker-net” is a viable data transport. Provided manual/user intervention is acceptable, and depending on the speed of data link I/O incorporated into the expansion card, the physical transport of a removable memory device between a PDA-based expansion card and an external system may provide the best solution to fast local transport of large data-sets. For similar reasons, the use of removable memory devices may provide the best solution to rapidly reconfiguring an application-specific expansion card to initiate a large program or use a large data sets. The use of labeled, color-coded, or otherwise distinctive, removable memory devices also may provide the best solution for ease of use for users needing to select a particular program or data set from many for reconfiguring an application specific expansion card. SPECIFIC APPLICATION EXAMPLES [0160] Media Player Application [0161] The present invention permits a general purpose PDA to be customized (specially adapted) for use as a portable/wearable media player, at the highest-level of functionality not unlike a portable Compact Disk player. Such a player uses the removable memory to store and playback digitally encoded media such as music, audio, or video. In a preferred embodiment the player makes use of the MPEG Layer 3 standard for digital audio encoding, generally known as MP3. Another embodiment makes use of the Microsoft Digital Audio standard. Other aspects of a preferred embodiment include an integral AM/FM receiver, a connector for a headset with an integral antenna for the receiver, and an auto-start on insert feature that initiates the media playback upon insertion of the removable memory. The PDA's display/input-tablet provides the virtual controls and visual indicators for the media player. [0162] Module For Subscriber Services [0163] In accordance with the present invention, an expansion card having I/O and removable memory is inserted into a computer host. The I/O is coupled to a receiver capable of receiving a large number of broadcast messages and services. The removable memory contains subscriber services information for each individual user. The expansion card uses the subscriber services information to filter out messages and services not applicable to the present status of the subscriber. The PDA's display/input-tablet provides the virtual controls and visual indicators for the display and access of captured messages and services. [0164] Bar-Code Scanning Application (a backup storage example) [0165] In accordance with the present invention, an expansion card having I/O and removable memory is inserted into a computer host, a bar-coding peripheral is connected to the I/O portion of the card, and a removable memory card is inserted into the memory slot of the card. After each scan the scanned information is transferred through the I/O connection to the host computer for processing. Additionally, a backup copy of the scanned information is stored on the removable memory. Should the computer host fail or should the operator need to verify scans, the backup can be interrogated with the same or a different host. [0166] Personal Environmental and Medical Monitoring Devices [0167] The present invention permits a general purpose PDA to be customized as a portable/wearable personal environmental monitor. Equipped with the appropriate sensors and application-specific circuitry for sensor signal processing, such a device performs time-stamped data logging of environmental attributes such as ionizing radiation, temperature, and humidity. Similarly, a portable/wearable personal medial monitor data logs health-related attributes such as pulse, temperature, respiration, and blood pressure. The PDA's display/input-tablet provides the virtual controls and visual indicators for the monitoring devices. [0168] Automotive and Industrial Diagnostic Monitoring and Control [0169] The combined I/O interconnect and removable memory of the present invention also permits a general purpose PDA to be customized (specially adapted) for use as a data logging diagnostic monitor or time-based control device. It is known that the diagnostic connectors of certain vehicles can be adapted to interface with PDAs for real-time monitoring of critical vehicle subsystems. The present invention permits such diagnostic monitoring data to be communicated via the I/O interconnect and logged to the removable memory. Such a tool facilitates tracking subsystem performance over extended periods of time, and permits real-time and deferred graphics of time-varying system performance attributes. The PDA's display/input-tablet provides the virtual controls and visual indicators for the diagnostic monitor. [0170] Miscellaneous Applications [0171] Another example application is wireless-modem based (I/O serial data-com link to cell-phone) Web-browsing (digital modem data transferred over expansion bus interface) while simultaneously playing back stored music (data from expansion memory interface transferred over expansion bus interface). A final example application is receiving location data (I/O data-com link to GPS receiver), retrieving map data (via expansion memory interface), and PDA display of integrated map and location data (I/O and memory data transferred over expansion bus interface). CONCLUSION [0172] Although the present invention has been described using particular illustrative embodiments, it will be understood that many variations in construction, arrangement and use are possible within the scope of the invention. For example the number of I/O interconnects, removable memories, contact fingers, number and type of application-specific circuits, and the size, speed, and type of technology used may generally be varied in each component of the invention. [0173] The invention is further not limited to the specific expansion module technology of the illustrative embodiments. In specific but not limiting examples, the invention is equally applicable to any of the present and future variants of the CompactFlash (including any of the Type I, Type II, and proposed Type III variants), PC Card (including any of the 32 bit, 16-bit, Type I, Type II, and Type III variants), and Springboard (or other open-back expansion module) standards, as well as other removable expansion module standards and technologies. [0174] Nor is the invention limited to a specific number and type of expansion I/O connector and I/O signaling as used in the illustrative embodiments. The invention is equally applicable to the use of multiple I/O connectors of one or more connector types. In addition, various and multiple types of I/O signaling may be employed. [0175] Nor is the invention's second-level removable expansion memory limited to the MultiMediaCard expansion memory standard of the illustrative embodiments, but is equally applicable to use of other types of second-level removable memory or media. In specific but not limiting examples, the invention is equally applicable to the use of present and future variants of MMCs, Miniature Cards, SSFDCs, Smart Cards, and SIM Cards. [0176] At the system level, the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments in which a removable expansion module with second-level-removable expansion memory is directly plugged into a computing host, but is equally applicable to situations in which one or more intervening adapters or dongles is used to adapt or couple between the interfaces of the expansion module and a computing host device or system. In a specific but not limiting example, the invention is applicable to the use of a CF Card with a CF-to-PC Card adapter, so that a CF Card according to the present invention can operate indirectly in a PC Card slot. [0177] At the system level, the invention is also not limited to the illustrated embodiments in which a removable expansion module with second-level-removable expansion memory is used in a PDA, but is equally applicable to use in any host device or system benefiting from the use of a removable expansion module having second-level-removable expansion memory. In specific but not limiting examples, the invention is equally applicable to present or future variants of desktops, servers, workstations, network computers, laptops, notebooks, palmtops, hand-held computers (hand-helds), information appliances, audio recording and playback devices, imaging devices including scanners and digital cameras, video recorders, fax machines, copy machines, smart phones, point-of-sale terminals, bar-code scanners, other special purpose data-acquisition devices, printers, other special purpose data-output devices, communication systems, network interface or networking infrastructure devices operating at any one or more levels of a data-communications protocol stack, network systems including any of the foregoing devices, and systems implementing networks and network applications at any scale including networks characterized as local area, departmental, enterprise wide, metropolitan area, state wide, regional, national, and the Internet. [0178] More generally, functionally equivalent techniques, now known or that become known to those skilled in the art, may be employed to implement various components in place of those illustrated. The present invention is thus to be construed as including all possible modification and variations encompassed within the scope of the appended claims.
The utility of portable computer hosts, such as PDAs (or hand-helds), is enhanced by methods and apparatus for removable expansion cards having application specific circuitry, a second-level-removable memory, and optional I/O, in a number of illustrative embodiments. In addition to providing greater expansion utility in a compact and low profile industrial design, the present invention permits memory configuration versatility for application specific expansion cards, permitting easy user field selection and upgrades of the memory used in conjunction with the expansion card. Finally, from a system perspective, the present invention enables increased parallelism and functionality previously not available to portable computer devices.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates in general to throttle valve control devices of an internal combustion engine, and more particularly to the throttle valve control devices of a type which has, besides a known system for directly controlling the throttle valve through the accelerator pedal, a so-called "traction control system" which, under a given condition, reduces the open degree of the throttle valve with an aid of an actuator irrespective of operation of the accelerator pedal. 2. Description of the Prior Art Hitherto, in motor vehicles powered by an internal combustion engine, various throttle valve control devices with a traction control system have been proposed and put into a practical use, which can control the driving torque of the engine in accordance with the driving force actually needed by the vehicle under running. Such control devices are very useful in safely controlling the vehicle which is under running on a slippery surface, such as, an iced road, a snow-covered road or the like. Some of such throttle valve control devices are of a type which has, in addition to a first throttle valve directly controlled by an accelerator pedal, a second throttle valve connected in series with the first throttle valve. That is, when a slip of road wheels of the vehicle is sensed, the open degree of the second throttle valve is reduced by a certain degree to lower the driving torque produced by the engine. With this, the driving force fed to the driving road wheels of the vehicle is reduced and thus undesired swerving phenomenon of the vehicle can be suppressed or at least minimized. The slip of road wheels is detected by, for example, comparing the rotation speed of the driving road wheel and that of a non-driving road wheel. However, due to provision of the second throttle valve, the entire construction of the throttle valve control device becomes large in size. In order to solve such drawback in size, Japanese Patent First Provisional Publication 3-61654 has proposed another throttle valve control device which employs only one throttle valve. That is, under normal running of the vehicle, the throttle valve is directly controlled by the accelerator pedal. While, when sensing the need of the traction control, the throttle valve is pivoted to reduce its open degree irrespective of operation of the accelerator pedal. In this control device, a butterfly-type throttle valve is employed which is mounted on a spring-biased throttle shaft to pivot therewith. By the spring, the throttle valve is biased in a direction to close the associated throat. An operation lever remotely actuated by the accelerator pedal is pivotally connected to the throttle shaft, and a control lever actuated by an electronically controlled actuator is also connected to the throttle shaft. A so-called "lost motion lever" is further connected to the throttle shaft, which becomes engaged with the operation lever upon pivoting of the operation lever in the valve closing direction. A lost motion spring is arranged between the operation lever and the lost motion lever to bias them in directions to establish engagement therebetween. An accelerator position sensor detecting the angular position of the operation lever and a throttle valve position sensor detecting the angular position of the throttle shaft are further employed for carrying out the traction control operation. However, even this throttle valve control device has failed to exhibit a satisfied performance due to its inherent construction. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a throttle valve control device which brings about an improved traction control with a reduced number of sensors. According to the present invention, there is provided a throttle valve control device having a traction control system, which can control the throttle valve optimally in accordance with the driving force actually needed by the vehicle under running. According to the present invention, there is provided a throttle valve control device of an internal combustion engine for use in a motor vehicle. The throttle valve control device comprises a first control system which controls a throttle valve in accordance with movement of an accelerator pedal; a second control system which, upon a traction control of the vehicle, enforcedly pivots, with an aid of an electric actuator, the throttle valve in a direction to reduce the open degree thereof irrespective of operation of the first control system; an accelerator position sensor for issuing a first signal which represents the operation position of the first control system; an actuator position sensor for issuing a second signal which represents the operation position of the electric actuator; first means for deriving a first open degree of the throttle valve from the first signal; second means for deriving a second open degree of the throttle valve from the second signal; and third means for selecting a smaller one from the first and second open degrees of the throttle valve, wherein the second control system is operated in accordance with both the second signal and the selected smaller open degree of the throttle valve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a functional diagram of a throttle valve control device according to the present invention; FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing operation steps which constitute a main routine for controlling a throttle valve of an internal combustion engine; FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing operation steps which constitute a sub-routine for deriving the open degree of the throttle valve; FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing operation steps which constitute a sub-routine for learning both an accelerator operation position which corresponds to the full-closed position of the throttle valve and a motor operation position which corresponds to the full-closed position of the throttle valve; FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing operation steps which constitute a sub-routine for judging whether the learning of the accelerator operation position corresponding to the full-closed position of the throttle valve should be inhibited or not; FIG. 6 is a plan view of a throttle structure to which the present invention is practically applied; and FIG. 7 is an enlarged sectional view of a right portion of the throttle structure where an electric motor and associated parts are arranged. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Referring to FIG. 1 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown a functional diagram of a throttle valve control device according to the present invention. The following description will be well understood when taken in conjunction with FIGS. 6 and 7. Designated by numeral 1 in FIG. 1 is a throttle body which rotatably supports a throttle valve 3. The throttle valve 3 is connected to a rotation shaft 2 to rotate therewith. An accelerator drum shaft 22 is supported by the throttle body 1, which has an axis extending in parallel with the rotation shaft 2. About the accelerator drum shaft 22, there is rotatably disposed an accelerator drum 24 which rotates or pivots in response to operation of an accelerator pedal 21. The accelerator drum 24 has an accelerator lever 25 integrally connected thereto. The accelerator lever 25 has an engaging lever 26 integrally connected thereto. Due to provision of respective biasing springs 28 and 29, the accelerator drum 24 and the accelerator lever 25 are biased in a direction to close the throttle valve 3, that is, in a direction opposite to the direction in which they are rotated when the accelerator pedal 21 is depressed. A DC servo motor 41 is mounted to the throttle body 1 near an end 2b of the rotation shaft 2. The motor 41 has a drive shaft 42 which is in parallel with the rotation shaft 2. A speed reduction gear mechanism 44 is used for transmitting the movement of the drive shaft 42 of the motor 41 to the rotation shaft 2 while reducing the speed. Due to provision of a first spring 43 which produces a first given biasing force, the gear mechanism 44 is biased in a direction to open the throttle valve 3. When moved in a given direction, that is, rightward in FIG. 1, the gear mechanism 44 is brought into abutment with an engaging lever 4 fixed to the end 2b of the rotation shaft 2. With this abutment, the rotation shaft 2 is rotated in only the direction to close the throttle valve 3. When the motor 41 is not energized, the gear mechanism 44 is forced to take a full-open position of the motor 41 due to the first given biasing force of the first spring 43. Near the other end 2a of the rotation shaft 2, there is arranged a lost-motion lever 31. A lost-motion spring 32 extends between the engaging lever 26 and the lost-motion lever 31. Under normal conditions, the lost-motion lever 31 is in abutment with the accelerator lever 25 due to the force of the lost-motion spring 32. While, when the rotation shaft 2 is rotated in a direction to close the throttle valve 3, the lost-motion lever 31 is rotated independently of the accelerator lever 25 thereby to cancel the abutment with the accelerator lever 25. That is, when, due to depression of the accelerator pedal 21, the accelerator drum 24 is rotated in a direction to open the throttle valve 3, the lost-motion lever 31 is rotated together with the accelerator lever 25 in a direction to open the throttle valve 3. This is because under such condition, the lost-motion lever 31 is kept biased to abut against the accelerator lever 25 due to the force of the lost-motion spring 32. While, when, with the accelerator drum 24 kept in a given angular position, the motor 41 is rotated in a direction to close the throttle valve 3, the rotation shaft 2 is rotated in a direction to close the throttle valve 3. With this, the lost-motion lever 31 is rotated in a direction to close the throttle valve 3, that is, rightward in FIG. 1, against the force of the lost-motion spring 32. This is because the speed reduction gear mechanism 44 is so arranged as to permit the rotation shaft 2 to rotate in only the direction to close the throttle valve 3. Thus, the engagement between the lost-motion lever 31 and the accelerator lever 25 becomes canceled leaving the accelerator drum 24 behind, and thus the rotation of the rotation shaft 2 induces the closing movement of the throttle valve 3. Near the end 2b of the rotation shaft 2, there is arranged a motor position sensor 71 which detects the operation position (viz., angular position) of the motor 41. Near the other end 2a of the rotation shaft 2, there is arranged an accelerator position sensor 75 which detects the rotation degree of the accelerator drum 24, that is, the depression degree of the accelerator pedal 21. Information signals from the sensors 71 and 75 are fed to a control unit 80 which controls the motor 41 for the traction control. In the following, the traction control executed by the control unit 80 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 2 to 5. FIG. 2 shows operation steps which constitute a main routine. At step S-1, a judgement is carried out as to whether a traction control is necessary or not. The judgement may be based on information on a slip of driving road wheels. In fact, when, under movement of the vehicle, the driving road wheels are subjected to a certain slip, the traction control becomes necessary, which is the control for temporarily reducing the driving torque produced by the engine. If YES at step S-1, that is, when it is judged that the traction control is necessary, the operation flow goes to step S-2. At this step, a target open degree "TGTVO" of the throttle valve 3, appropriate for the need of the traction control, is determined. Then, at step S-3, an open degree "TVO" of the throttle valve 3 derived in an after-mentioned manner and a motor operation position "MPS" detected by the motor position sensor 71 are read. Then, at step S-4, based on the derived open degree "TVO" and the detected motor operation position "MPS", a feedback control is so made so that the throttle valve 3 is controlled to take the target open degree "TGTVO". It is to be noted that even when the motor 41 and the throttle valve 3 are kept disconnected because, for example, the traction control is in its initial stage or the driver's foot is released from the accelerator pedal 21 under the traction control, the open degree "TVO" of the throttle valve 3 and the motor operation position "MPS" are known. Thus, it is possible to optimally control the motor 41 for the feedback control. That is, for example, until the connection between the motor 41 and the throttle valve 3 is established, the motor 41 can be rotated at a lower speed for obtaining a soft and smoothed connection of them, and after the connection, the motor 41 can be rotated at a desired higher speed for instantly pivoting the throttle valve 3 to take the target open degree "TGTVO". So-called "PID" (proportional, integral and derivative) control" may be used for controlling the motor 41. Thus, the feedback control can be made with a higher responsibility. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing operation steps which constitute a sub-routine for deriving the open degree "TVO" of the throttle valve 3. At step S-11, an accelerator operation position "APS" detected by the accelerator position sensor 75, a motor operation position "MPS" detected by the motor position sensor 71, a learned accelerator operation position "APSMIN" corresponding to the full-closed position of the throttle valve 3 and a learned motor operation position "MPSMIN" corresponding to the full-closed position of the throttle valve 3 are all read. The process for obtaining the learned positions "APSMIN" and "MPSMIN" will be described hereinafter. In the following, for ease of description, the learned positions "APSMIN" and "MPSMIN" will be referred to "full-close corresponding accelerator position" and "full-close corresponding motor position" respectively. At step S-12, a first throttle valve open degree "TVO1" corresponding to the accelerator operation position "APS" is calculated from the following equation: TVO1=K.sub.1 ×(APS-APSMIN) (1) wherein: K 1 : Constant for converting an output (voltage) of the sensor 75 to a throttle valve open degree. As is known, the accelerator position sensor 75 has a certain dispersion in output. The output dispersion becomes marked when it is used for a long time. That is, with increase in time for which the sensor 75 is practically used, the sensor 75 is liable to issue different outputs for the same sensed phenomena. Thus, in accordance with the invention, a learning technique is practically applied to the outputs of the accelerator position sensor 75 to provide the full-close corresponding accelerator position "APSMIN". Furthermore, in the invention, the first throttle valve open degree "TVO1" is derived based on a difference between the actually detected accelerator operation position "APS" and the learned position "APSMIN". With this technique, it becomes possible to obtain or derive a throttle valve open degree which is not affected by the output dispersion of the sensor 75. At step S-13, a second throttle valve open degree "TVO2" corresponding to the motor operation position "MPS" is calculated from the following equation: TVO2=K.sub.2 ×(MPS-MPSMIN) (2) wherein: K 2 : Constant for converting an output (voltage) of the sensor 71 to a throttle valve open degree. That is, like in the step S-12, the learning technique is practically applied to the outputs of the sensor 71 to provide the full-close corresponding motor position "MPSMIN". Furthermore, the second throttle valve open degree "TVO2" is derived based on a difference between the actually detected motor operation position "MPS" and the learned position "MPSMIN". At step S-14, a judgement is carried out as to whether or not the first throttle valve open degree "TVO1" is smaller than the second throttle valve open degree "TVO2". If YES, that is, when "TVO1<TVO2" is established, the operation flow goes to step S-15 to make the throttle valve open degree "TVO" take the first open degree "TVO1". While, if NO at step S-14, that is, when "TVO1≧TVO2" is established, the operation flow goes to step S-16 to make the throttle valve open degree "TVO" take the second open degree "TVO2". That is, when the traction control system is not actually operated, that is, when the motor 41 and the throttle valve 3 are kept disconnected, the throttle valve 3 is pivoted in response to movement of the accelerator pedal 21. Thus, under this condition, the first open degree "TVO1" shows a value corresponding to the actual open degree of the throttle valve 3, but the second open degree "TVO2" based on the motor operation position "MPS" shows a value greater than the actual open degree. While, when the traction control system is actually operated, that is, when the motor 41 and the throttle valve 3 are operatively connected, the throttle valve 3 is pivoted in response to operation of the motor 41. Thus, under this condition, the second open degree "TVO2" shows a value corresponding to the actual open degree of the throttle valve 3, but the first open degree "TVO1" based on the accelerator operation position "APS" shows a value greater than the actual open degree by a degree corresponding to the enforced turning by the lost-motion spring 32. Accordingly, when a smaller one is selected from the first and second open degrees "TVO1" and "TVO2", the actual throttle valve open degree "TVO" is automatically known or derived without making the detection as to whether the traction control is being carried out or not. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing operation steps which constitute a sub-routine for deriving the above-mentioned full-close corresponding accelerator position "APSMIN" and the full-close corresponding motor position "MPSMIN". At step S-21, a judgement is carried out as to whether or not the existing condition of the motor vehicle should be used for learning the accelerator operation position corresponding to the full-closed position of the throttle valve 3. If YES, that is, when an ignition key cylinder has been just turned from OFF position to ON position or when the engine is in an idling condition keeping an idling switch ON, the operation flow goes to step S-22. If NO at step S-21, the operation flow goes to an after-mentioned step S-25. At step S-22, a judgement is carried out as to whether an after-mentioned learning inhibition condition is established or not. If NO, that is, when it is judged that the learning inhibition condition is not established, the operation flow goes to step S-23. If YES at step S-22, the operation flow goes to the after-mentioned step S-25. At step S-23, the learning of the accelerator position corresponding to the full-closed position of the throttle valve 3 is carried out. More specifically, the output of the accelerator position sensor 75 under the above-mentioned learning condition wherein the throttle valve 3 is fully closed is read. With this, the full-close corresponding accelerator position "APSMIN" is derived. If desired, a weighted mean of this just learned position "APSMIN" and a previously learned position may be used as a substitute for the learned position "APSMIN". Then, at step S-24, the learned position "APSMIN" derived at step S-23 is stored in a RAM updating the content of the same. Then, the operation flow goes to step S-25. At this step, a judgement is carried out as to whether or not the existing condition of the motor vehicle should be used for learning the motor operation position corresponding to the full-closed position of the throttle valve 3. If YES, that is, when the engine is in an idling condition keeping the ignition switch ON and the transmission is in the neutral condition, the operation flow goes to step S-26. If NO at step S-25, the operation flow goes to RETURN. At step S-26, the learning of the motor operation position corresponding to the full-closed position of the throttle valve 3 is carried out. More specifically, the motor 41 is operated until the throttle valve 3 comes to the fully closed position, and the output of the motor position sensor 71 under this full-closed condition of the throttle valve 3 is read. With this, the full-close corresponding motor position "MPSMIN" is derived. Then, at step S-27, the learned position "MPSMIN" derived at step S-26 is stored in the RAM updating the content of the same. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing operation steps which constitute a sub-routine for detecting the above-mentioned learning inhibition condition. At step S-31, a judgement is carried out as to whether or not the motor vehicle is under a condition which needs the traction control. If YES, that is, when the vehicle is under the condition for need of the traction control, the operation flow goes to step S-32. While, if NO, the operation flow goes to RETURN. At step S-32, a judgement is carried out as to whether the motor position sensor 71 operates normally or not. For this judgement, a so-called "self-diagnosable system" is used. If YES, that is, when the sensor 71 is judged to operate normally, the operation flow goes to step S-33. At step S-33, a judgement is carried out as to whether or not the first throttle valve open degree "TVO1" is greater than the second throttle valve open degree "TVO2". This judgement is made for determining whether or not the traction control is being actually carried out operatively connecting the motor 41 with the throttle valve 3. If YES at step S-33, that is, when it is judged that the traction control is being carried out, the operation flow goes to step S-34. At step S-34, the learning inhibition condition is established. This is made for inhibiting an erroneous derivation of the full-close corresponding accelerator position "APSMIN". That is, when the vehicle is under the traction control, and thus when the motor 41 is operatively connected with the throttle valve 3, it tends to occur that the throttle valve 3 is forced to take an extreme position beyond the normal full-closed position. If the learning of the full-close corresponding accelerator position "APSMIN" is carried out at such extreme position, accurately learned position "APSMIN" can not be derived. If NO at step S-32, that is, when the motor position sensor 71 is judged to operate abnormally, the operation flow goes to step S-35. At this step, a judgement is carried out as to whether or not a manual switch for operating the traction control system operates normally. If YES, that is, when the manual switch is judged to operate normally, the operation flow goes to step S-36. While, if NO, the operation flow goes to RETURN. At step S-36, a judgement is carried out as to whether or not the manual switch for the traction control system takes ON condition. If YES, that is, when the manual switch is judged to take ON position, the operation flow goes to step S-34 for establishing the learning inhibition condition. That is, when the vehicle is under the traction control, it tends to occur that the throttle valve 3 is pivoted by the motor 41 to the extreme position beyond the normal full-closed position. If NO at step S-33, that is, when "TVO1≦TVO2" is established, the operation flow goes to RETURN. That is, upon such establishment, it can be considered that even under the traction control, the throttle valve 3 is not pivoted to the above-mentioned extreme position. As is seen from the above, if NO is issued at step S-33, S-35 or S-36, the learning inhibition condition is not established. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, there is shown a throttle structure to which the present invention is practically applied. In the drawings, denoted by numeral 3 is a twin type throttle valve including two valve plates. These valves plates are secured to the rotation shaft 2 to rotate therewith. As shown in FIG. 6, near one end of the rotation shaft 2, there are arranged the accelerator drum 24 and the accelerator position sensor 75, and near the other end of the rotation shaft 2, there are arranged the motor 41, the speed reduction gear mechanism 44 and the motor position sensor 71. Due to the nature of the twin type throttle valve 3, the throttle structure can provide, at a position perpendicular to the axis of the rotation shaft 2, a sufficient space for accommodating the motor 41. Thus, the throttle structure can be assembled compact in size. As is seen from FIG. 7, the motor 41, the gear mechanism 44 and the motor position sensor 71, which constitute major parts of the traction control system, are assembled in a single case 40. The single case 40 is detachably connected to one side of the throttle body 1.
A throttle valve control device having a traction control system includes a first control system which controls a throttle valve in accordance with movement of an accelerator pedal, a second control system which, upon a traction control of the vehicle, enforcedly pivots, with an aid of an electric motor, the throttle valve in a direction to reduce its open degree. An accelerator position sensor issues a first signal which represents the operation position of the first control system and an actuator position sensor issues a second signal which represents the operation position of the electric motor. A first device derives a first open degree of the throttle valve from the first signal and a second device derives a second open degree of the throttle valve from the second signal. A third device selects the smaller of the first and second open degrees of the throttle valve. The second control system is operated in accordance with both the second signal and the selected smaller open degree of the throttle valve.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/419,818, filed Apr. 7, 2009, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/043,124, filed Apr. 7, 2008, both of which are hereby incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] This application relates to a system and a method for predicting when a vehicle is going to experience a fault and repairing and/or maintaining the vehicle in response to the fault prediction. These systems and methods are applicable to any organization that maintains a fleet of vehicles or a group of similar machines or instrumentalities. [0004] 2. Description of Related Art [0005] Maintenance and repair of a vehicle is a general concern to an owner or operator of a vehicle. Cost of labor and components, downtime, productivity, performance, and efficiency, among other factors, all impact the ability of a vehicle to perform as it is designed. Accordingly, maintenance systems have arisen in an attempt to reign in vehicle maintenance costs, reduce downtime, and increase productivity. [0006] Some maintenance systems have been premised on performing routine maintenance at predetermined mileage intervals or periodic time intervals. Still others provide warning alerts when a part on a vehicle has broken down. However, a typical problem with conventional maintenance systems is that they have generally been reactive in nature and have not generally not taken into account the actual causes, reasons, or indications of specific breakdowns and faults in vehicles. Maintenance has usually not been performed on a vehicle until the vehicle is broken down, resulting in excessive downtime of the vehicle and, potentially, additional costs and repairs that were caused because of the breakdown. [0007] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for systems and methods for identifying when vehicles are going to breakdown or experience faults and proactively maintaining and repairing the vehicles before the breakdowns and faults occur. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0008] The following summary is not an extensive overview and is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the apparatuses, methods, systems, processes, and the like, or to delineate the scope of such elements. This Summary provides a conceptual introduction in a simplified form as a prelude to the more-detailed description that follows. [0009] Embodiments of the present invention provide an improvement over known maintenance systems by, among other things, providing a vehicle maintenance system that is configured to provide one or more of the following advantages: (1) reduce the number of vehicle breakdowns, (2) reduce maintenance and repair costs, (3) reduce vehicle downtime for maintenance and repairs, (4) increase vehicle efficiency and performance, and (5) increase vehicle lifetime. [0010] In various embodiments of the present invention, a preventative vehicle maintenance system is provided. The system includes a fleet of vehicles comprising a plurality of vehicles, an electronic control module (ECM) disposed in each of the plurality of vehicles within the fleet of vehicles, a computer processor adapted to execute a vehicle maintenance engine, and a memory coupled to the computer processor and adapted for storing the vehicle maintenance engine. Each of the ECMs is configured to collect data from one or more sensors disposed within the respective vehicle in which the ECM is disposed. The vehicle maintenance engine is configured for receiving from the sensor signal data collected from the one or more sensors disposed within the respective plurality of vehicles, statistically analyzing data received from at least one type of sensor of the one or more sensors disposed within the plurality of vehicles to identify at least one earmark corresponding to a potential fault condition for one or more vehicle components associated with the at least one type of sensor, and individually comparing the sensor signal data from the at least one type of sensor received from each of the plurality of vehicles to the identified earmark. If the received sensor signal data from the at least one type of sensor for a particular one of the plurality of vehicles is within a particular range of the earmark, the vehicle maintenance engine is configured for generating an alert code for the particular vehicle. In response to generating the alert code, the vehicle maintenance engine is configured for repairing the one or more vehicle components for the particular vehicle to prevent the occurrence of a failure of the one or more vehicle components in advance. [0011] In other various embodiments, a method for maintaining a vehicle is provided. The method begins with the step of receiving from a plurality of ECMs sensor signal data collected from a first type of sensor disposed within each of a plurality of vehicles, in which each ECM is disposed within a respective one of the plurality of vehicles. The method continues by determining a first statistical distribution of the sensor signal data from substantially all of the plurality of vehicles, determining a second statistical distribution for each of the plurality of vehicles of the sensor signal data from the first type of sensor from each of the plurality of vehicles, and statistically comparing each second statistical distribution for each of the plurality of vehicles to the first statistical distribution related to substantially all of the plurality of vehicles to determine a degree of difference between the statistical distributions. In response to the degree of difference being outside of a predetermined range based on the first statistical distribution for substantially all of the plurality of vehicles, the method generates an alert code for the particular vehicle. In response to generating the alert code, the method includes the step of repairing one or more vehicle components for the particular vehicle associated with the first type of sensor data to prevent the occurrence of a failure of the one or more vehicle components in advance. [0012] In yet another embodiment, another method for maintaining a vehicle is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving from an ECM a first set of sensor signal data collected from one or more sensors disposed within a vehicle, the first set of sensor signal data being collected during a first time period, and receiving from the ECM a second set of sensor signal data collected from the one or more sensors disposed within the vehicle, the second set of sensor signal data being collected during a second time period. Next, the method continues by determining a statistical distribution of at least a portion of the first set of sensor signal data associated with a particular type of sensor, determining an average of at least a portion of the second set of sensor signal data associated with the particular type of sensor, and statistically comparing the average to the statistical distribution to determine a degree of difference between the average and the statistical distribution. In response to the degree of difference being outside of a predetermined range based on the statistical distribution of at least a portion of the first set of sensor signal data associated with the particular type of sensor, the method generates an alert code for the vehicle. In response to generating the alert code, the method includes the step of repairing one or more vehicle components for the vehicle associated with the first type of sensor data to prevent the occurrence of a failure of the one or more vehicle components in advance. [0013] In another embodiment, another method for maintaining a vehicle is provided. The method begins with the step of receiving a first set of sensor signal data collected by a plurality of electronic control modules (ECM) during a first period of time. Each ECM is disposed within a respective vehicle of a plurality of vehicles, and the sensor signal data collected by each ECM is collected from one or more sensors disposed within the respective vehicle in which the respective ECM is disposed. The method continues with the steps of statistically analyzing at least a portion of the first set of sensor signal data collected from at least one type of sensor of the one or more sensors to identify at least one earmark corresponding to a potential fault condition for one or more vehicle components associated with the at least one type of sensor, receiving sensor signal data collected by the plurality of ECMs during a second period of time, and individually comparing at least a portion of the sensor signal data collected from the at least one type of sensor from each of the plurality of vehicles to the identified earmark. In response to the least a portion of the sensor signal data from a particular vehicle of the plurality of vehicles being within a particular range of the earmark, an alert code is generated for the particular vehicle. In response to generating the alert code, the method includes the step of repairing the one or more vehicle components for the particular vehicle to prevent the occurrence of a failure of the one or more vehicle components in advance of the failure of the one or more components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) [0014] Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein: [0015] FIG. 1 is an overview of the relationships of the components of a vehicle maintenance system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0016] FIG. 2 is schematic block diagram of a Vehicle Maintenance Server that incorporates an embodiment of the present invention. [0017] FIGS. 3 and 4 show examples of computer devices that can be used to implement various embodiments of the present invention. [0018] FIG. 5 depicts an overview of the process flow between the modules of the vehicle maintenance system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0019] FIGS. 6 through 7 depict the steps of a method performed by the Data Collection Module and Fault Prediction Module, according to an embodiment of the invention. [0020] FIG. 8 depicts the steps of a method performed by the Alert Notification Module, according to an embodiment of the invention. [0021] FIG. 9 depicts the steps of a method performed by the Maintenance Module, according to an embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0022] Various embodiments of the present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the inventions are shown. Indeed, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Overview [0023] Various embodiments of the invention generally relate to systems and methods related to the maintenance of vehicles. In certain embodiments, historical data measurements from at least one vehicle in a fleet of vehicles are analyzed to identify the underlying reasons for vehicle faults and breakdowns and to develop algorithms that identify conditions that tend to indicate when a vehicle may be about to experience a fault. In particular, to predict vehicle faults, a plurality of vehicles in a fleet are each equipped with a data collection device, such as an electronic control module (“ECM”), that is configured to collect data from various signal sensors disposed on the vehicle, such as, for example, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and battery voltage, among others, and transmit the collected data to a vehicle maintenance server. In certain embodiments, the data is collected over a period of time and statistically analyzed to identify earmarks that are predictive of one or more upcoming vehicle faults based on vehicle maintenance histories. Once these data earmarks are identified, these earmarks are compared to the data collected from each of the plurality of vehicles to determine whether an earmark has been reached for each vehicle. In response to the ECM data matching or being within a particular range of a particular earmark, an alert code is generated and the repair of the one or more components related to the upcoming vehicle fault is coordinated to prevent the occurrence of a failure of the one or more vehicle components in advance. In one embodiment, the driver is notified of the potential fault. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the ECM is instructed to obtain more frequent measurements from one or more sensors related to the earmark if the data measured is matches or is within the particular range of the particular earmark. In other various embodiments, a maintenance visit is scheduled, and the driver is notified that maintenance is required on the vehicle. Additionally, in one embodiment, a part needed for repair is automatically requested or ordered if, for example, the part is not stocked or readily available. System Overview [0024] In various embodiments, according to FIG. 1 , a fleet maintenance system includes a fleet of vehicles 100 , an ECM 110 disposed within each of at least a plurality of the vehicles in the fleet for which the fleet operator wishes to record data, and a vehicle maintenance server 130 that is configured to receive data from each ECM 110 . In particular embodiments, the ECM 110 is a data collection device that is disposed in a particular vehicle and is adapted to receive (e.g., on a substantially continuous basis) data measurements from various sensors in the vehicle. For example, according to various embodiments, the sensors include, but are not limited to, sensors adapted for measuring oil pressure, coolant temperature, coolant pressure, coolant level, voltage, oil temperature, road speed in miles-per-hour (MPH), engine speed in revolutions-per-minute (RPM), throttle position, accelerator pedal position, warning lights, engine load, oil level, boost pressure, injection control pressure (ICP), ICP desired, ICP duty cycle, fuel pulsewidth, average miles per gallon, idle hours, idle fuel, total mileage, total engine hours, total fuel, ABS control status, park brake status, air intake temperature, cycle counts of the starter, cycle counts of the ignition switch, alternator sensor, fuel injector sensor, and/or EGR valve temperature. In certain embodiments, suitable ECMs 110 include commercially available products that are programmed to record certain measurements at pre-determined times. For example, in a particular embodiment, the ECM 110 is instructed to record the oil pressure when the engine speed is within a certain range and the coolant temperature is above a certain level. As another example, the ECM 110 is instructed to take the oil pressure reading at certain predetermined intervals. Thus, according to various embodiments, the ECM 110 is instructed to record virtually endless permutations and combinations of data measurements from the various sensors on a vehicle. [0025] According to various embodiments, the data measurements taken by the ECM 110 are then transmitted to another device, such as a vehicle maintenance server 130 that is configured to receive the data from at least a portion of the ECMs 110 in the fleet. The ECM 110 transmits data to the vehicle maintenance server 130 via one or more networks 120 . According to various embodiments, the ECM 110 transmits the data via a wireless network (e.g., a wireless wide area network (WWAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), or a wireless personal area network (WPAN) or through a wired connection to the vehicle maintenance server 130 . For example, in one embodiment in which the ECM 110 transmits data via a WWAN, the ECM 110 is equipped with a cellular data radio that is configured to communicate with the vehicle maintenance server 130 over a cellular communications network. In another (or a further) embodiment in which the ECM 110 is configured to transmit data via a WLAN, the ECM 110 is equipped with a WLAN data radio capable of communicating with the vehicle maintenance server 130 via a WLAN protocol (e.g., 802.11b protocol) [0026] In various embodiments, the vehicle maintenance 130 is any type of computer, including a server, mainframe, desktop, laptop, computer workstation/terminal, handheld computer, or other similar device. The vehicle maintenance server 130 may be one device or it may comprise multiple devices. Additionally, the vehicle maintenance server 130 is configured to receive data from either all or fewer than all of the ECMs 110 and is configured to receive either all or less than all of the data from each ECM 110 from which it receives data. In various embodiments, the vehicle maintenance server 130 may be external to the ECM 110 , external to a vehicle that contains the ECM 110 , internal to a vehicle that contains the ECM 110 , combined with the ECM 110 , or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the vehicle maintenance server 130 stores the data received from the ECMs 110 in a relational database management system, such as SQL Server, Oracle, Access, or other database management system. [0027] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a vehicle maintenance server 130 according to one embodiment of the invention. As may be understood from this figure, in this embodiment, the vehicle maintenance server 130 includes a processor 205 that communicates with other elements within the vehicle maintenance server 130 via a system interface or bus 240 . Also included in the vehicle maintenance server 130 is a display device/input device 215 for receiving and displaying data. This display device/input device 215 may be, for example, a keyboard or pointing device that is used in combination with a monitor. The vehicle maintenance server 130 further includes memory 200 , which preferably includes both read only memory (ROM) 230 and random access memory (RAM) 225 . The server's ROM 230 is used to store a basic input/output system 235 (BIOS), containing the basic routines that help to transfer information across the one or more network 120 . [0028] In addition, the vehicle maintenance server 130 includes at least one storage device 210 , such as a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a CD Rom drive, or optical disk drive, for storing information on various computer-readable media, such as a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, or a CD-ROM disk. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, each of these storage devices 210 is connected to the system bus 240 by an appropriate interface. The storage devices 210 and their associated computer-readable media provide nonvolatile storage for a personal computer. It is important to note that the computer-readable media described above could be replaced by any other type of computer-readable media known in the art. Such media include, for example, magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, and Bernoulli cartridges. [0029] A number of program modules are stored by the various storage devices and within RAM 225 . According to various embodiments, such program modules include an operating system 250 , a Data Collection Module 255 , a Fault Prediction Module 260 , an Alert Notification Module 265 , and a Maintenance Module 270 . The Data Collection Module 255 , Fault Prediction Module 260 , Alert Notification Module 265 , and Maintenance Module 270 control certain aspects of the operation of the vehicle maintenance server 130 , with the assistance of the processor 205 and an operating system 250 . [0030] Also located within the vehicle maintenance server 130 is a network interface 220 for interfacing and communicating with other elements of a computer network. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that one or more of the vehicle maintenance server 130 components may be located geographically remotely from other vehicle maintenance server 130 components. Furthermore, one or more of the components may be combined, and additional components performing functions described herein may be included in the vehicle maintenance server 130 . [0031] Some method steps performed in various embodiments of the invention are completed by updating computer memories or transferring information from one computer memory to another. Other examples of computer components that are used to implement various embodiments of the invention (for example, the modules of FIG. 2 ) are described in connection with FIGS. 3 and 4 . In particular, turning to FIG. 3 , an embodiment of a computer is illustrated that can be used to practice various aspects of the embodiments of present invention, such as the various computer systems described herein. In FIG. 3 , a processor 31 , such as a microprocessor, is used to execute software instructions for carrying out the defined steps. The processor receives power from a power supply 317 that also provides power to the other components as necessary. The processor 31 communicates using a data bus 35 that is typically 16 or 32 bits wide (e.g., in parallel). The data bus 35 is used to convey data and program instructions, typically, between the processor and memory. In various embodiments, memory can be considered volatile primary memory 32 , such as RAM or other forms which retain the contents only during operation, or it can be non-volatile primary memory 33 , such as ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, FLASH, or other types of memory that retain the memory contents at all times. The memory could also be secondary memory 34 , such as disk storage, that stores large amount of data. In some embodiments, the disk storage communicates with the processor using an I/O bus 36 or a dedicated bus (not shown). The secondary memory is a floppy disk, hard disk, compact disk, DVD, or any other type of mass storage type known to those skilled in the computer arts. One of ordinary skill will recognize that as data is transferred between two or more computing devices (in accordance with the below-described processing steps), the data is read from and written to one or more of these memory areas and the memory area is physically changed as a result of the process. [0032] The processor 31 also communicates with various peripherals or external devices using the I/O bus 36 . In the present embodiment, a peripheral I/O controller 37 is used to provide standard interfaces, such as RS-232, RS422, DIN, USB, or other interfaces as appropriate to interface various input/output devices. Typical input/output devices include local printers 318 , a monitor 38 , a keyboard 39 , and a mouse 310 or other typical pointing devices (e.g., rollerball, trackpad, joystick, etc.). [0033] According to various embodiments of the invention, the processor 31 typically also communicates with external communication networks using a communications I/O controller 311 , and may use a variety of interfaces such as data communication oriented protocols 312 such as X.25, ISDN, DSL, cable modems, etc. The communications I/O controller 311 may also incorporate a modem (not shown) for interfacing and communicating with a standard telephone line 313 . Additionally, the communications I/O controller may incorporate an Ethernet interface 314 for communicating over a LAN. Any of these interfaces may be used to access the Internet, intranets, LANs, or other data communication facilities. [0034] Also, the processor 31 may communicate with a wireless interface 316 that is operatively connected to an antenna 315 for communicating wirelessly with other devices, using for example, one of the IEEE 802.11 protocols, 802.15.4 protocol, or a standard 3G wireless telecommunications protocol, such as CDMA2000 1x EV-DO, GPRS, W-CDMA, or other protocol. [0035] A further alternative embodiment of a processing system that may be used is shown in FIG. 4 . In this embodiment, a distributed communication and processing architecture is shown involving, for example, the scheduled delivery service server 130 communicating with either a local client computer 426 a or a remote client computer 426 b . The server 130 typically comprises a processor 205 that communicates with a database 210 , which can be viewed as a form of secondary memory, as well as primary memory 200 . The processor also communicates with external devices using an I/O controller 220 that typically interfaces with a local area network (LAN) 431 . The LAN provides local connectivity to a networked printer 428 and the local client computer 426 a . These may be located in the same facility as the server, though not necessarily in the same room. Communication with remote devices typically is accomplished by routing data from the LAN 431 over a communications facility to the Internet 427 . A remote client computer 426 b executes a web browser, so that the remote client 426 b may interact with the server 130 as required by transmitted data through the Internet 427 , over the LAN 431 , and to the server 130 . The one or more networks 120 in FIG. 1 may be the Internet 427 . References made herein to a network are meant to include one or more networks configured to carry out the function or feature being described. [0036] Those skilled in the art of data networking will realize that many other alternatives and architectures are possible and can be used to practice the principles of the present invention. The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 can be modified in different ways and be within the scope of the present invention as claimed. It should be understood that many individual steps of a process according to the present invention may or may not be carried out utilizing the computer systems described, and that the degree of computer implementation may vary. [0037] Furthermore, as depicted in FIG. 2 and additionally depicted in FIG. 5 , according to various embodiments, aspects of the operation of the vehicle maintenance server 130 are controlled by certain program modules, with the assistance of the processor 205 and an operating system 250 . These modules include the Data Collection Module 255 , Fault Prediction Module 260 , Alert Notification Module 265 , and Maintenance Module 270 . FIG. 5 depicts an overview of the relationship of the operations and/or activities performed by these modules. The Data Collection Module 255 (Block 255 ) is configured to instruct the ECMs 110 to collect data from one or more sensors in a vehicle, and in certain embodiments, the ECMs 110 are programmed to collect data at particular time intervals, at particular mileage intervals, or in other specific manners. The Data Collection Module 255 receives all data from the ECM 110 , stores the data, and transmits the data to the Fault Prediction Module 260 (Block 260 ). The Fault Prediction Module 260 is configured to receive data from the Data Collection Module 255 and determine whether the data is predictive of a potential fault in a vehicle and to provide and detected faults to the Alert Notification Module 265 (Block 265 ). The Alert Notification Module 265 is configured to generate an alert code, assign a level of priority to the alert, and provide the alert to both the vehicle driver and the Maintenance Module 270 (Block 270 ). The Maintenance Module 270 is configured to automatically check the components inventory for components required to perform a repair based on the alert code, automatically order any components required that are not currently in the inventory, automatically coordinate a repair based on the alert code, automatically notify the vehicle driver of the repair visit, and/or automatically dispatch the components required for the repair visit. Data Collection [0038] As depicted in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , the Data Collection Module 255 instructs the ECMs 110 to begin collecting data and transmitting that data to the vehicle maintenance server 130 as shown in Step 605 . According to various embodiments, the Data Collection Module 255 instructs the ECMs 110 to record data measurements from certain sensors, at certain periods of time, when certain criteria have been satisfied, or any combination thereof. In addition, the Data Collection Module 255 receives sensor signal data from the ECMs 110 over a period of time (e.g., a moderate duration, such as 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or a shorter or longer duration), shown as Step 610 . The period of time of collection, according to various embodiments, depends on the length deemed necessary or desirable by the fleet operator to collect a representative amount of data about the fleet vehicles. The gathered data, according to a particular embodiment, facilitates the prediction and/or diagnosis of faults and breakdowns in the fleet vehicles. [0039] According to various embodiments, data collected by the ECM 110 and transmitted to the Data Collection Module 255 includes, for example, data from sensors in communication with various components of an engine or vehicle. For example, the sensors collect various types of data, including but not limited to, oil pressure, coolant temperature, coolant pressure, coolant level, voltage, oil temperature, road speed in miles-per-hour (MPH), engine speed in revolutions-per-minute (RPM), throttle position, accelerator pedal position, warning lights, engine load, oil level, boost pressure, injection control pressure (ICP), ICP desired, ICP duty cycle, fuel pulsewidth, average miles per gallon, idle hours, idle fuel, total mileage, total engine hours, total fuel, ABS control status, park brake status, air intake temperature, cycle counts of the starter, cycle counts of the ignition switch, alternator sensor, fuel injector sensor, and/or EGR valve temperature. [0040] For example, according to particular embodiments, with respect to collecting data to identify when an oil change is needed for a particular vehicle, samples of oil from at least a plurality of engines in vehicles having an ECM 110 disposed therein (or samples of oil from a representative segment of engines in vehicles having ECMs 110 disposed therein) are extracted and analyzed at periodic intervals. The results of the analysis identify the levels of contaminants in the oil samples, as well as the kinematic viscosity of each sample. At similar or nearby times to when the oil samples are taken from at least a plurality of engines, the Data Collection Module 255 instructs each corresponding ECM 110 to record measurements from various sensors on the engine and on the vehicle, including the oil pressure. The data gathered by the ECM 110 is stored in the Data Collection Module 255 (or in an associated data storage device) along with data indicative of the type of engine, the model year of the engine, the type of transmission, the geographic region where the vehicle is operated, and/or any other relevant factors, and the data obtained from the oil sampling and analysis is stored as vehicle history along with the maintenance and repair history of the respective vehicles. [0041] In other various embodiments (not shown in FIG. 6 ), the ECM is programmed to collect data measurement from certain sensors on its own, without instruction from the Data Collection Module 255 . [0000] Data Mining to Identify Data that is Predictive of Pre-Determined Faults [0042] In various embodiments, once data measurements have been collected by the ECMs 110 and transmitted to and stored by the Data Collection Module 255 for a particular time period (e.g., 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, shorter, or longer), the data is statistically analyzed to identify the underlying reason(s) for any vehicle faults that occurred with the vehicles sampled. In particular, to identify the reason(s) that is predictive of vehicle faults, the vehicle histories for a plurality of vehicles in the fleet of vehicles are first reviewed to identify vehicle faults that have already occurred as shown in Step 620 . Vehicle history is related to various components of a vehicle, including the oil, the battery, the starter, the alternator, the ignition switch, the EGR valve, temperature sensors, the cooling system, ABS, fuel injectors, injection control pressure sensors, fuel filters, the fuel pump, the transmission, the engine, the throttle, the park brake, the accelerator pedal, wheel bearings, wheel sensors, wheel seals, hoses, and other components of a vehicle. Vehicle history includes, for example, various types of information about a vehicle, including its maintenance history, its history of breakdowns and faults, and operational data related to the various vehicle components (e.g., results of testing and analysis of oil samples), among other types of information. In one embodiment, faults are identified by reviewing any of the types of vehicle history related to the various components of a vehicle. [0043] For example, in regard to the results of analysis of oil samples, various faults related to oil may be identified by analyzing the oil samples for the presence of contaminants and/or to determine the kinematic viscosity of the oil. In particular, in one embodiment, the results identify contaminants and metals, including, for example, antifreeze, fuel dilution, oxidation, aluminum, chromium, lead, water, and excess soot, among other contaminants and metals. Furthermore, the kinematic viscosities of the oil samples may correspond to the levels and types of contamination in the oil samples. In particular, for each different weight of oil, there are industry accepted levels of acceptable operating ranges for kinematic viscosity. Thus, for kinematic viscosities that are outside of the acceptable operating ranges, the related levels of contamination of antifreeze, fuel dilution, oxidation, aluminum, chromium, lead, water, and excess soot, among other contaminants and metals, are identified as faults. [0044] In regard to other components of the vehicles, faults that can be identified from reviewing the vehicle history include, for example, dead or dying batteries, dead or dying starters, dead or dying alternators, dead or dying ignition switches, failed or failing fuel filters, failed or failing temperature sensors, cooling system problems, failed or failing wheel sensors, failed or failing wheel bearings, failed or failing wheel seals, failed or failing fuel injectors, leaking hoses, failed or failing injection control pressure sensors, incorrect park brake setting, and failed or failing accelerator pedal assemblies, among other types of faults and breakdowns. [0045] According to various other embodiments, other types of faults are identifiable in relation to any type, model, brand, and/or design of vehicle, engine, or other vehicle component. [0046] Once faults are identified, the data recorded by the ECMs 110 is then examined to identify one or more earmarks that are predictive of the faults as shown in Step 630 . For example, as noted above, various earmarks are predictive of the faults related to contaminated oil or oil that otherwise needed to be replaced. In particular, for oil contaminated with antifreeze, water, and excess soot, the predictive earmark is an increase in oil pressure above an acceptable oil pressure, and for oil diluted with fuel or oxidized oil, the predictive earmark is a decrease in oil pressure below an acceptable oil pressure. [0047] As another example, multiple earmarks may indicate a fault of a dead or dying battery, including, but not limited to, a battery voltage that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage, a battery voltage at startup that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage at startup, a battery voltage at resting state that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage at resting state, an ECM 110 fault with a signal sensor, an ECM 110 fault with a signal sensor problem following the replacement of the signal sensor, a battery voltage that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage in combination with an alternator sensor warning, a battery voltage that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage in combination with the number of cycle counts of the starter exceeding a certain number of starts, and/or an air intake temperature that is lower than an acceptable air intake temperature. [0048] Furthermore, in regard to the fault of a dead or dying starter, various earmarks include, for example, the number of cycle counts of the starter exceeding a certain number of starts, a battery voltage that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage in combination with the number of cycle counts of the starter exceeding a certain number of starts, and/or a battery voltage at startup that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage at startup. [0049] For the fault of a dead or dying alternator, predictive earmarks include, for example, a battery voltage at startup that is lower than an acceptable battery voltage at startup and/or an alternator fault from the ECM 110 in combination with a failed electrical test. In addition, in regard to a dead or dying ignition switch, an earmark includes, for example, the number of cycle counts of the ignition switch exceeding a certain number of starts. [0050] Many other faults are predicted by various earmarks identified by the ECM 110 . In regard to the fuel filter, a failed or failing fuel filter is predicted, for example, by the earmark of a fuel injector sensor warning. A failed or failing coolant temperature sensor is predicted, for example, by a low coolant temperature in relation to a high EGR valve temperature. A coolant system problem is indicated, for example, by a high coolant temperature in relation to a high EGR valve temperature. An ABS fault code from the ECM 110 is a predictive earmark of various faults, including a failed or failing wheel sensor, a wheel bearing problem, a wheel seal problem, and a failed overdrive gear, for example. Additionally, a the fault of a failed or failing fuel injector is indicated by various earmarks, including, for example, an injection control pressure that is higher than an acceptable injection control pressure, an injection control pressure that varies more than an acceptable variance, and/or an injection control pressure sensor fault code from the ECM 110 in combination with a coolant temperature that has decreased below an acceptable coolant temperature. Even more, a leaking hose is predicted, for example, by a decrease in oil pressure below an acceptable oil pressure in combination with a coolant temperature that has increased above an acceptable coolant temperature and/or a coolant pressure that has decreased below an acceptable coolant pressure in combination with a coolant temperature that has increased above an acceptable coolant temperature. Furthermore, in regard to the injector control pressure sensor, the earmark of a number of miles exceeding a certain number of miles is indicative, for example, of a failed or failing injection control pressure sensor. For the fault of an incorrectly set park brake, an earmark of this fault includes, for example, an indication that the park brake is set when the engine is not at a resting state and/or an indication that the park brake is not set when the engine is at a resting state. Additionally, the fault of a failed park brake assembly is predicted the earmark of an accelerator sensor alarm, for example. [0051] According to various other embodiments, other types of correlations between vehicle faults and the predictive earmarks of the vehicle faults are identifiable in relation to any type, model, brand, and/or design of vehicle, engine, or other vehicle component. [0052] According to various embodiments, each of the predictive earmarks falls into one or more categories of earmarks, including threshold values and acceptable operating ranges, and are determined for each type of vehicle, the model of each vehicle, the model year of each vehicle, the manufacturer of each vehicle, each type of engine, each type of transmission, the geographic region where the vehicle is operated, and/or any other relevant similarity. According to certain embodiments, a threshold value is a value related to a certain type of sensor such that data from the certain type of sensor crossing the threshold value is indicative of potential fault. A threshold may be a maximum value, such that exceeding threshold is indicative of a potential fault, or a threshold may be a minimum value, such that dropping below the threshold is indicative of a potential fault. For example, in regard to the fault of a failed or failing injection control pressure sensor, the earmark of a number of miles exceeding a certain number of miles is a threshold value. In addition, in one embodiment, a threshold value is related to the occurrence of an event such that the event occurring is indicative of a potential fault. For example, in regard to a dead or dying battery, a threshold value is an ECM 110 fault with a signal sensor. [0053] Additionally, according to certain embodiments, acceptable operating ranges are ranges of data such that data outside the range is predictive of a vehicle fault. Acceptable operating ranges concern the statistical relationship of data collected from a certain type of sensor(s) disposed within an individual vehicle to data collected from the same type of sensor(s) disposed within each of a plurality of vehicles, the plurality of which may be a peer group (e.g., same model of vehicle). In various embodiments, the data collected from sensor disposed within the individual vehicle is collected during the same time period in which the data collected from the sensor disposed within each of the plurality of vehicles is collected. In alternative embodiments, the data collected from the sensor disposed within the individual vehicle is collected during a time period that is subsequent to the time period in which the data collected from the sensor disposed in each of the plurality of vehicles is collected. [0054] For example, in various embodiments in which data collected from a certain type of sensor disposed within an individual vehicle is compared to data collected from the same type of sensor disposed within each of a plurality of vehicles, an acceptable operating range is a predetermined range above and/or below the statistical distribution of the data collected from the certain type of sensor disposed within each of the plurality of vehicles. Therefore, if the statistical distribution of the sensor data from the individual vehicle in comparison to the statistical distribution of the sensor data from the plurality of vehicles in the peer group is outside of the predetermined range, the individual vehicle is potentially going to have a fault. For example, if the degree of difference between the statistical distribution of the injection control pressure for an individual vehicle in relation to the statistical distribution of the injection control pressure from a plurality of vehicles is outside of a predetermined range (e.g., 5%, 10%, or other suitable deviation), then one or more fuel injectors of the individual vehicle is dead or dying. Additionally, for example, if the degree of difference between the statistical distribution of the oil pressure for an individual vehicle in relation to the statistical distribution of the oil pressure from a plurality of vehicles is outside of a predetermined range, then the oil is contaminated and/or is ready to be changed. [0055] According to alternative embodiments, acceptable operating ranges concern the statistical relationship of data collected during a first time period from a certain type of sensor disposed within an individual vehicle to data collected from the same sensor of the vehicle during a second time period. In one embodiment, the second time period is subsequent to the first time period, and in another embodiment, the second time period is shorter in duration than the first time period. In even further embodiments, the second time period is inclusive within the first time period or overlaps with the first time period. [0056] For example, in various embodiments in which data collected during a first time period from a certain type of sensor disposed within an individual vehicle is compared to data collected from the same sensor of the vehicle during a second time period, an acceptable operating range is a predetermined range above and/or below the statistical distribution of the data collected during the first time period from the sensor disposed within the individual vehicle. Therefore, if the data (e.g., a single data point, a series of data points, and an average of data points recorded over a specific period of time) collected during the second time period is outside of the predetermined range, the individual vehicle is potentially going to have a fault. For example, if the degree of difference between the average injection control pressure collected from an individual vehicle recorded once an hour for one week is outside of a predetermined range from the statistical distribution of the injection control pressure data collected from the individual vehicle for one year, then the one or more fuel injectors of the individual vehicle is dead or dying. Additionally, for example, if the degree of difference between the average oil pressure collected from an individual vehicle for oil pressures recorded during one week is outside of a predetermined range from the statistical distribution of the oil pressure data collected from the individual vehicle for one year, then oil is contaminated and/or is ready to be changed. [0057] According to various other embodiments, other types of earmarks, whether threshold values, acceptable operating ranges, or other types of earmarks, are identifiable in relation to any type, model, brand, and/or design of vehicle, engine, or other vehicle component. Developing Algorithms [0058] Returning to FIG. 6 , as shown in Step 640 , once the underlying reasons and indicators for vehicle faults have been determined, statistical algorithms are developed that are to be applied to data collected from individual vehicles to identify potential faults. The statistical algorithms take into account the identified earmarks that correspond to potential vehicle faults, and the algorithms are able to identify potential faults by comparing collected data against earmarks of threshold values and acceptable operating ranges. [0059] In regard to predicting faults related to oil, for example, algorithms are developed for identifying an oil pressure decrease below a threshold value of oil pressure, the oil pressure for an individual vehicle dropping below an acceptable operating range of oil pressure for a plurality of vehicles, and the oil pressure for an individual vehicle during a second time period dropping below an acceptable pressure for acceptable operating range for oil pressure of the vehicle during a first time period. Furthermore, algorithms are developed for identifying an oil pressure increase above a threshold value of oil pressure, the oil pressure for an individual vehicle increasing above an acceptable operating range of oil pressure for a plurality of vehicles, and the oil pressure for an individual vehicle during a second time period increasing above an acceptable pressure for acceptable operating range for oil pressure of the vehicle during a first time period. [0060] Additionally, algorithms are developed for identifying the various earmarks that are predictive of a dead or dying battery. For example, algorithms are developed for identifying a battery voltage that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage, a battery voltage at startup that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage at startup, a battery voltage at resting state that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage at resting state, the threshold value of an ECM 110 fault with a signal sensor, the threshold value of an ECM 110 fault with a signal sensor following the replacement of the signal sensor, and/or an air intake temperature that is lower than a threshold value of air intake temperature. Algorithms can also take into account a plurality of earmarks to identify potential faults. For example, in regard to a dead or dying battery, algorithms are developed for identifying a battery voltage that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage in combination with a threshold value of an alternator sensor warning and/or for a battery voltage that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage in combination with the number of cycle counts of the starter exceeding a threshold value of starts. [0061] Furthermore, in regard to identifying the potential fault of a dead or dying starter, algorithms are developed for identifying the number of cycle counts of the starter exceeding a threshold value of starts, a battery voltage at startup that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage at startup, and/or a battery voltage that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage in combination with the number of cycle counts of the starter exceeding a threshold value of starts, Additionally, algorithms are developed for identifying various earmarks that are predictive of a dead or dying alternator. For example, algorithms are developed for identifying a battery voltage at startup that is lower than a threshold value of battery voltage at startup and/or a threshold value of an alternator fault from the ECM 110 in combination with a threshold value of a failed electrical test. Even more, in regard to identifying the potential fault of a dead or dying ignition switch, an algorithm is developed for identifying the number of cycle counts of the ignition switch exceeding a threshold value of starts. [0062] Additional algorithms are developed to identify faults related to various earmarks that are identified by the ECM 110 . For example, in regard to a failed or failing fuel filter, an algorithm is developed for identifying the threshold value of a fuel injector sensor warning. For a failed or failing coolant temperature sensor, an algorithm is developed for identifying a coolant temperature below an acceptable threshold value of coolant temperature in combination with an EGR valve temperature above an acceptable threshold value of EGR temperature. In regard to a cooling system problem, an algorithm is developed for identifying a coolant temperature above an acceptable threshold value of coolant temperature in combination with an EGR valve temperature above an acceptable threshold value of EGR temperature. Algorithms are also developed for the various faults that are predicted by an ABS fault code. For example, to identify the potential faults of a failed or failing wheel sensor, a wheel bearing problem, a wheel seal problem, and a failed overdrive gear, algorithms are developed for identifying the threshold value of an ABS fault code from the ECM 110 . [0063] Furthermore, in regard to the various earmarks that are predictive of a failed or failing fuel injector, algorithms are developed for identifying an injection control pressure that has increased above a threshold value of injection control pressure, an injection control pressure that varies more than a threshold value of variance within a certain period of time, injection control pressure for an individual vehicle outside of an acceptable operating range of injection control pressure for a plurality of vehicles, and/or an the threshold value of an injection control pressure sensor fault code from the ECM 110 in combination with a coolant temperature that has decreased below a threshold value of coolant temperature. For leaking hoses, algorithms are developed for identifying a decrease in oil pressure below a threshold value in oil pressure in combination with a coolant temperature that has increased above a threshold value coolant temperature and/or a coolant pressure that has decreased below a threshold value of coolant pressure in combination with a coolant temperature that has increased above a threshold value of coolant temperature. Additionally, for a failed injector control pressure sensor, an algorithm is developed for identifying the number of miles exceeding a threshold value of miles. For the fault of an incorrectly set park brake, an algorithm is developed for identifying a threshold value of the park brake being set in combination with a threshold value of the engine not being at a resting state and/or a threshold value of the park brake not being set in combination with a threshold value of the engine not being at a resting state. Even more, for the fault of a failed park brake assembly, an algorithm is developed for identifying the threshold value of an accelerator sensor alarm from the ECM 110 . [0064] According to various other embodiments, other algorithms may be developed to aid in the identification of potential faults in relation to any type, model, brand, and/or design of vehicle, engine, or other vehicle component. The algorithms may be related to various earmarks, including threshold values, acceptable operating ranges, or other types of earmarks. [0065] According to various embodiments, once the statistical algorithms are developed, the statistical algorithms are configured as stored procedures in the Fault Prediction Module 260 that reside within the vehicle maintenance server 130 , as shown in Step 650 . The Fault Prediction Module 260 is configured to receive real-time and/or delayed data from the Data Collection Module 255 and to apply the statistical algorithm stored procedures to the data to predict any faults or potential faults. [0066] Following Step 650 , as shown in Step 710 of FIG. 7 , each ECM 110 is instructed by the Data Collection Module 255 to collect data in accordance with certain parameters that will facilitate identification of earmarks by the statistical algorithm stored procedures. According to various embodiments, the certain parameters include collecting sensor signal data at periodic time intervals, collecting sensor signal data at periodic mileage intervals, collecting sensor signal data based on the revolutions per minute of the engine, collecting sensor signal data based on the position of the accelerator pedal, collecting sensor signal data based on the position of the ignition switch, and/or collecting sensor signal data from certain sensors in the at least one vehicle. For example, in regard to collecting sensor data related to oil pressure, the Data Collection Module 255 instructs the ECM 110 to measure the oil pressure when the vehicle is idling and the engine is warmed up. Additionally, for example, the Data Collection Module 255 may instruct the ECM 110 to measure the battery voltage at various specific times, including upon startup, once every five minutes for the first thirty minutes that the vehicle is on, and once an hour while the engine is turned off. In other embodiments, the Data Collection Module 255 may instruct the ECM 110 to collect sensor date according to various other parameters. Implementation of the Predictive Maintenance System [0067] After algorithms have been established and configured as stored procedures in the Fault Prediction Module 260 , the algorithms are used during the operation of a fleet maintenance system. In various embodiments, the system serves as a predictive fault system, an alert notification system, a maintenance scheduling system, an automatic components ordering system, and automatic components dispatching system, or any combination thereof. [0068] Continuing with the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 , the ECMs 110 in the plurality of vehicles record data based on the customized instructions stored in the Data Collection Module 255 (as indicated by Step 710 ), and the Data Collection Module 255 receives data transmitted from the ECMs 110 in real-time or any other appropriate interval, as shown in Step 720 . The Data Collection Module 255 then transmits the data to the Fault Prediction Module 260 in real-time or any appropriate interval. According to Step 730 , once the Fault Prediction Module 260 receives the data from the Data Collection Module 255 , the Fault Prediction Module 260 applies the statistical algorithm stored procedures to the data to identify potential faults. [0069] In regard to oil pressure, for example, the ECMs 110 in the plurality of vehicles record the oil pressure per instructions from the Data Collection Module 255 , the oil pressure measurements are transmitted from the ECM 110 to the Data Collection Module 255 and subsequently to the Fault Prediction Module 260 , and the Fault Prediction Module 260 applies various algorithms to the recorded oil pressure to identify potential faults. In one embodiment, for example, a threshold-based statistical algorithm stored procedure compares the measured oil pressure from one particular vehicle to a threshold minimum value of oil pressure and a threshold maximum value of oil pressure to determine whether the oil pressure for the particular vehicle has decreased below the minimum or increased above the maximum. If the oil pressure has decreased below the minimum or increased above the maximum, the Fault Prediction Module 260 identifies the increase or decrease as a potential fault with the oil of the one vehicle. [0070] Furthermore, in another embodiment, for example, a peer-to-peer based statistical algorithm stored procedure in the Fault Prediction Module 260 compares oil pressure measurements from one particular vehicle to oil pressure readings from a plurality of vehicles that include the particular vehicle to determine whether the oil pressure of the particular vehicle is outside of an acceptable operating range for oil pressure. The acceptable operating range is a predetermined range above and/or below the statistical distribution of the oil pressures of the plurality of vehicles measured during a certain time period. According to various embodiments, the Fault Prediction Module 260 compares the statistical distribution of the oil pressures from the particular vehicle measured during the certain time period to the statistical distribution of the oil pressures of the plurality of vehicles to determine if the degree of difference between the statistical distribution of the oil pressures from the particular vehicle and the statistical distribution of the oil pressures of the plurality of vehicles is outside of the acceptable operating range. If the degree of difference is outside of the acceptable operating range, then the Fault Prediction Module 260 identifies the difference as a potential fault with the oil of the particular vehicle. In other embodiments, in comparing the statistical distribution of the oil pressures from the particular vehicle to the statistical distribution of the oil pressures of the plurality of vehicles, the oil pressures from the particular vehicle includes oil pressures that are measured during a subsequent time period than the time period in which the oil pressures from the plurality of vehicles were measured. [0071] Even more, in yet another embodiment, for example, a vehicle-based statistical algorithm stored procedure in the Fault Prediction Module 260 that compares oil pressure measurements from a particular vehicle to oil pressure readings the of same vehicle measured during a different period to determine whether the oil pressure of the vehicle is outside of an acceptable operating range for oil pressure. The acceptable operating range is a predetermined range above and/or below the statistical distribution of the oil pressure readings from the vehicle measured during a first time period. According to various embodiments, the Fault Prediction Module 260 compares oil pressure readings from the vehicle measured during a second time period to the statistical distribution of the oil pressure readings from the vehicle measured during the first time period to determine the degree of difference between the oil pressure readings from the vehicle measured during a second period and the statistical distribution of the oil pressure readings from the vehicle measured during the first time period. In certain embodiments, the oil pressure readings measured from the vehicle during the second time period that are compared against the statistical distribution of the oil pressure readings from the vehicle measured during the first time period are, for example, a single oil pressure reading, a series of oil pressure readings, or an average oil pressure reading during the second time period. According to various embodiments, the second time period is subsequent to the first time period, and in other embodiments, the second time period is shorter in duration than the first time period. In even further embodiments, the second time period is inclusive within the first time period or overlaps with the first time period. If the degree of difference is outside of the acceptable operating range, then the Fault Prediction Module 260 identifies the difference as a potential fault with the oil of the vehicle. [0072] Any identified faults are then transmitted to the Alert Notification Module 265 , as shown in Step 740 . The application of the statistical algorithm stored procedures by the Fault Prediction Module 260 is performed either as a parallel process or as a post process in relation to the reception of data by the Fault Prediction Module 260 from the Data Collection Module 255 . In various embodiments, the statistical algorithm stored procedures are applied by the Fault Prediction Module 260 to the data collected by the Data Collection Module 255 at substantially the same time that the data is collected from the ECM 110 by the Data Collection Module 255 and transmitted to the Fault Prediction Module 260 . For example, the statistical algorithm stored procedures are applied by the Fault Prediction Module 260 in a substantially real-time manner. Alternatively, the statistical algorithm stored procedures are applied by the Fault Prediction Module 260 to the data collected by the Data Collection Module 255 at a subsequent time after the data is collected by the Data Collection Module 255 and transmitted to the Fault Prediction Module 260 . For example, the statistical algorithm stored procedures are applied by the Fault Prediction Module 260 at periodic intervals, at predetermined periods of time, upon the collection of a predetermined amount of data, or based upon various other conditions. Once the statistical algorithm stored procedures are applied to the data, the Fault Prediction Module 260 determines if any of the data has surpassed an earmark, whether the earmark is a threshold value or an acceptable operating range. [0073] In some embodiments, once a fault or potential fault is detected by the Fault Prediction Module 260 , the Fault Prediction Module 260 transmits the fault or potential fault to the Alert Notification Module 265 . The Alert Notification Module 265 also receives faults from an ECM fault detection system, which reactively detects faults upon failure of certain components. Upon receiving the fault or potential fault, the Alert Notification Module 265 , as depicted in Step 810 of FIG. 8 , generates an alert code for the potential fault and assigns a code to the fault that signifies the importance or priority of the fault. [0074] In various embodiments, the fault codes include, for example, a red code, which signifies a high priority repair; a yellow code, which indicates that the vehicle may breakdown in the very near future (e.g., a couple of days); a no-color code, which signifies a low priority repair in which the vehicle does not need to be repaired until a higher priority fault occurs; and a green code, which signifies an issue with mileage or fuel economy and is treated as a high priority red code. In other embodiments, the codes assigned by the Alert Notification Module 265 may have alternative names, and the code categories may be more numerous, less numerous, or a combination of the categories listed above. [0075] After the fault code is assigned, the Alert Notification Module 265 performs one or more various actions. In a particular embodiment, the Alert Notification Module 265 instructs the Data Collection Module 255 to instruct the ECM 110 to collect additional data relevant to the potential fault, as shown in Step 820 . For example, if the ECM 110 is taking hourly measurements of the battery voltage in a vehicle and the Fault Prediction Module 260 signals a fault, the Alert Notification Module 265 instructs the Data Collection Module 255 to obtain battery voltage measurements from the ECM 110 every twenty minutes, for example. [0076] In a further embodiment (or in another embodiment), the Alert Notification Module 265 notifies the driver of the potential fault in Step 830 and transmits the alert code to the Maintenance Module 270 . The Alert Notification Module 265 can notify the driver of the fault (e.g., automatically) by message to the driver's portable data acquisition device, such as the Delivery Information Acquisition Device (“DIAD”) used by UPS drivers, email, phone call, SMS text message, or any other similar method. The notification is dependent upon the fault code assigned to the detected fault. For example, if a red code or a green code is detected, the driver is instructed to bring the vehicle in for an immediate repair. If a yellow code is detected, the driver is notified to bring the vehicle in for repair within the next few days. And if a no-color code is detected, the driver is merely notified of the detection, or the driver is not notified at all. [0077] With reference to FIG. 9 , when the Maintenance Module 270 receives the alert code from the Alert Notification Module 265 , the Maintenance Module 270 , as shown in Step 910 , automatically checks the fleet components inventory to determine if the components required for the repair are currently in stock. If any required components are not in stock, the Maintenance Module 270 automatically orders any required components not currently in the fleet inventory as shown in Step 920 . [0078] Then, in Step 930 , the Maintenance Module 270 then automatically schedules a maintenance visit, which is based on the scheduled arrival of any ordered components that are not currently in stock. Once the maintenance visit has been scheduled, the Maintenance Module 270 automatically notifies the vehicle driver of the scheduled maintenance visit as shown in Step 940 . Additionally, a mechanic is notified of the scheduled maintenance visit, if necessary. Furthermore, in Step 950 , the Maintenance Module 270 automatically dispatches the components for the maintenance visit upon availability of the components. Subsequently, any components on the vehicle are repaired to prevent the occurrence of a failure of the vehicle components in advance. [0079] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
A system that enables a fleet of vehicles to be maintained is provided. The disclosed system allows a fleet operator to review the history of the vehicles in the fleet along with vehicle sensor data to identify earmarks in the vehicle sensor data that are predictive of faults that the vehicles have experienced. The operator develops statistical algorithms that can detect an earmark in vehicle sensor data. The system then collects vehicle sensor data and applies the statistical algorithms the vehicle data to determine if a potential fault is going to occur in a vehicle. In response to determining that a potential fault is going to occur, the disclosed system automatically alerts the vehicle driver, automatically schedules a maintenance visit, automatically checks the fleet inventory for components required for a maintenance visit and orders unavailable components, and automatically dispatches the components to the mechanic.
8
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to cantilevered assemblies and in particular, to a safety device for a cantilevered beam and boom assembly incorporating the same. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Wall mounted cantilevered assemblies such as for example projector mounts are known in the art. U.S. Pat. No. 5,490,655 to Bates discloses a video/data projector and monitor ceiling/wall mount. The wall mount includes a wall support assembly fixedly secured to a wall surface. A pair of struts extends horizontally from the wall support assembly. A projector/monitor adapter is supported by the ends of the struts. The wall support assembly includes a strut adapter that rests between a pair of adapter plates extending from a wall plate. A fastener secures the strut adapter to the adapter plates in a manner to permit rotation of the adapter plate and hence, the struts about a vertical axis. Although Bates discloses an assembly for supporting a projector that is to be secured to a wall surface, the Bates wall mount suffers disadvantages. When a load is placed on the wall mount, the entire load is taken up by the wall mount and the wall surface due to the fact that the wall mount is static. If the load is significant, the load may cause damage to the wall mount and/or the wall surface. In addition, if it is necessary to service the wall mount and/or the projector supported thereon, a ladder or other similar device must be used to gain access to the wall mount and/or projector. [0003] U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,366 to Keenan et al. discloses an overhead projection system comprising an overhead projector support assembly extending generally horizontally from a generally vertical support surface. A display screen having a display surface is mounted on the support surface beneath the projector support assembly. A projector is mounted on the projector support assembly and is aimed to project images onto the display surface of the display screen. The projector support assembly comprises a governor in the form of a damper and spring arrangement to control downward pivotal movement of the projector support assembly when a load is placed on the projector support assembly and to return the projector support assembly to its generally horizontal orientation when the load is removed. Although this overhead projection system has proven to be very effective and overcomes the deficiencies associated with the Bates assembly, it is expensive. In some environments where cost is of primary concern, most cost effective solutions are desired. [0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention at least to provide a novel safety device for a cantilevered beam and to a boom assembly incorporating the same. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0005] Accordingly, in one aspect there is provided a safety device for a cantilevered beam pivotally mounted adjacent one end thereof to a support surface. The safety device is adapted to bridge the beam and the support surface and is structured so that when coupled to the beam and support surface, the safety device maintains the beam in a substantially fixed cantilevered condition until a downward force exceeding a threshold is applied to the beam and thereafter controls downward pivoting of the beam. [0006] In one embodiment, the safety device comprises first structure to maintain the beam in the substantially fixed cantilevered condition and second structure to control downward pivoting of the beam. The first structure is physically altered when a downward force exceeding the threshold is applied to the beam. In one form, the first structure is at least one elongate link that breaks when the downward force exceeding the threshold is applied to the beam. In another form, the first structure comprises a shear pin and retainer assembly. The second structure comprises at least one beam-pivoting resisting element. The at least one beam-pivoting resisting element may be selected from (i) at least one chain-link element, (ii) at least one spring element, and (iii) at least one dashpot. [0007] According to another aspect there is provided a boom assembly comprising a boom pivotally coupled adjacent one end to a support surface. A safety device acts between the boom and the support surface. The safety device maintains the boom in a substantially horizontal orientation but fails when a downward force exceeding a threshold is applied to the boom to permit the boom to pivot downwardly. After failure, the safety device controls downward pivoting of the boom. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0008] Embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an interactive whiteboard and boom assembly; [0010] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view in cross-section of the boom assembly; [0011] FIG. 3 is an enlarged, partly cut-away, perspective view of a portion of the boom assembly; [0012] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a safety device forming part of the boom assembly; [0013] FIG. 5 is a safety device moment displacement plot; [0014] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a safety device; [0015] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 taken along line 7 - 7 ; [0016] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of yet another embodiment of a safety device; [0017] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 taken along line 9 - 9 ; [0018] FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of a portion of the boom assembly showing yet another embodiment of a safety device; [0019] FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of a portion of the boom assembly showing yet another embodiment of a safety device; [0020] FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the boom assembly showing still yet another embodiment of a safety device; and [0021] FIG. 13 is an enlarged, side elevational view of the safety device shown in FIG. 12 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS [0022] Turning now to FIG. 1 , an interactive whiteboard (IWB) is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 50 . In this embodiment, the IWB 50 is a 600i series interactive whiteboard manufactured by SMART Technologies ULC, of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, assignee of the subject application. As can be seen, the IWB 50 comprises a touch screen 70 having a touch surface 72 surrounded by a bezel 74 . A tool tray 76 is affixed to the bezel 74 adjacent the bottom edge of the touch surface 72 and accommodates one or more tools that are used to interact with the touch surface. The touch screen 70 is mounted on a wall surface 78 via mounting brackets (not shown). The touch screen 70 may be one of a number of types including but not limited to analog resistive, capacitive, camera-based, electromagnetic, surface acoustic wave etc. [0023] A boom assembly 82 is also mounted on the wall surface 78 above the touch screen 70 via a mounting bracket 84 . The boom assembly 82 comprises a generally horizontal boom 86 that extends outwardly from the mounting bracket 84 . The boom 86 supports a projector 88 intermediate its length and a mirror 89 adjacent its distal end. The projector 88 is aimed at the mirror 89 so that the image projected by the projector 88 is reflected by the mirror 89 back towards the touch screen 70 and onto the touch surface 72 . [0024] The mounting bracket 84 comprises a pair of laterally spaced, vertical flanges 90 between which a pivot pin 92 extends. The pivot pin 92 is accommodated by a cup 94 provided on the underside of the boom 86 thereby to enable the boom to pivot downwardly in a vertical plane. The mounting bracket 84 also comprises a horizontal flange 96 that extends outwardly from the mounting bracket above the boom 86 . A safety device 100 is secured at one end to the horizontal flange 96 and at its opposite end to the top surface of the boom 86 . The safety device 100 maintains the boom 86 in its substantially horizontal orientation unless a downward force exceeding a threshold is applied to the boom 86 . If such a downward force is applied to the boom 86 , the safety device 100 releases the boom allowing the boom 86 to swing downwardly. In this manner, damage to the wall surface 78 and/or mounting bracket 84 is avoided. Even though the safety device 100 releases the boom 86 , the safety device 100 controls downward pivotal movement of the boom to avoid injury to anyone and/or damage to anything beneath the boom 86 as well as to avoid damage to the projector 88 and the mirror 89 supported by the boom 86 . [0025] Turning now to FIGS. 2 to 4 , the safety device 100 is better illustrated. As can be seen, the safety device 100 in this embodiment is in the form of a metal strap formed of steel or other structurally suitable material comprising a pair of spaced bands 102 a and 102 b respectively. Each band has pair of laterally spaced holes 104 provided therein. The holes 104 in band 102 a accommodate fasteners that secure the band 102 a to the horizontal flange 96 . The holes 104 in band 102 b accommodate fasteners that secure the band 102 b to the top of the boom 86 . The bands 102 a and 102 b are joined by a generally central link 106 having a region of weakness 108 midway along its length. The region of weakness 108 in this embodiment is a region of reduced width that acts as a mechanical fuse. A pair of elongate boom-pivoting resisting elements in the form of chain-link elements 110 also joins the bands 102 a and 102 b . Each chain-link element 110 is positioned on an opposite side of the link 106 . [0026] The operation of the safety device 100 will now be described. When the boom 86 is normally loaded, the safety device 100 is placed in tension as the safety device acts to maintain the boom 86 in its horizontal orientation. During normal loading, the integrity of the safety device 100 remains intact keeping the boom 86 in position. However, if the boom 86 is overloaded as a result of one or more individuals pulling down on or hanging from the boom, when the load placed on the boom reaches a threshold, the region of weakness 108 provided along the link 106 fails thereby releasing the boom and permitting the boom 86 to pivot downwardly. Failure of the region of weakness 108 along the link 106 provides clear visual evidence that the boom 86 has been overloaded. The point at which the region of weakness 108 along the link 106 fails is selected to meet safety standard requirements and to avoid damage to the wall surface 78 from occurring as a result of the mounting bracket 84 being pulled from the wall surface 78 . In typical applications, the link 106 is designed so that it fails at the region of weakness 108 under an applied load in the range of from about 50 lbs to about 80 lbs. For example, when supporting a typical projector 88 , the link is designed so that it fails at the region of weakness 108 under an implied load equal to about 62 lbs. [0027] During downward swinging of the boom 86 under continued application of the applied load and/or under its own weight, the chain-link elements 110 bend while resisting downward pivoting of the boom 86 thereby to control the descent of the boom 86 in a manner to avoid injury to anyone and/or damage to anything beneath the boom 86 as well as to avoid damage to the projector 88 and the mirror 89 supported by the boom 86 . As will be appreciated, the configuration of the region of weakness 108 can be tailored to adjust the point at which the link 106 fails under load applied to the boom 86 . Also, the configuration of the chain-like elements 110 can be tailored to adjust the manner by which the boom 86 swings downwardly. After failure of the safety device 100 , the boom assembly 82 can be reset and returned to its normal operating condition by removing the failed safety device, pivoting the boom 86 upwardly to its generally horizontal orientation, and fastening a replacement safety device 100 to the boom 86 and horizontal flange 96 . [0028] FIG. 5 is a moment displacement plot showing the moment applied to the boom 86 in foot-pounds versus the extension of the safety device 100 in inches. As can be seen, initially as the moment applied to the boom 86 increases, the safety device 100 retains its integrity and extends very little. When the applied moment reaches the threshold, the region of weakness 108 along the link 106 begins to fail and the safety device 100 extends. Point F, represents the point at which the region of weakness 108 fails under the applied moment. Once the region of weakness 108 fails, the chain-link elements 110 extend as the boom 86 pivots downwardly. Point F 2 represents the point at which the chain-like elements 110 fail under the applied moment. [0029] If desired, the link 106 can be configured so that rather than breaking, the link stretches to a point beyond recovery when the boom 86 is subjected to a load exceeding the threshold. Also, the region of weakness 108 along the link 106 can take other forms. For example, the region of weakness 108 can be formed by perforating the link 106 . Alternative safety device configurations are also possible. [0030] For example, although the safety device 100 is shown as including a single link 106 positioned between a pair of chain-link elements 110 , those of skill in the art will appreciate that many variations are permissible. The safety device 100 may include a single link 106 and a single chain-link element 110 . Alternatively, the safety device 100 may comprise a single chain-link element 110 and a plurality of links 106 or a plurality of both chain-link elements 110 and links 106 . When the safety device 100 comprises a plurality of chain-link elements 110 and a plurality of links 106 , the links and chain-link elements can be arranged in an alternating pattern or other desired arrangement. Of course other structure can be used to maintain the boom 86 in its horizontal orientation and control downward pivoting of the boom 86 after the boom has been overloaded. [0031] Turning now to FIGS. 6 and 7 , another embodiment of a safety device is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 200 . In this embodiment, the safety device 200 comprises a pair of spaced bands 202 a and 202 b respectively, with each band having a pair of laterally spaced holes 204 provided therein. The holes 204 in band 202 a accommodate fasteners that secure the band to the horizontal flange 96 . The holes 204 in band 202 b accommodate fasteners that secure the band to the top of the boom 86 . The bands 202 a and 202 b are joined by a generally central mechanical fuse assembly 206 . A pair of elongate coil springs 210 also joins the bands 202 a and 202 b . Each coil spring 210 is positioned on an opposite side of the mechanical fuse assembly 206 . The mechanical fuse assembly 206 comprises an arm 212 integral with the band 202 b that terminates midway between the bands. The distal end of the arm 212 is configured to form a recess 214 . An arm 216 integral with the band 202 a terminates with its distal end accommodated in the recess 214 . A shear pin 218 passes through the arms 212 and 216 and the recess 214 thereby to interconnect and retain the arms and inhibit their separation. [0032] Similar to the previous embodiment, during normal loading the integrity of the safety device 200 remains intact keeping the boom 86 in its generally horizontal orientation. However, if the boom 86 is overloaded as a result of one or more individuals pulling down on or hanging from the boom, when the load placed on the boom 86 reaches the threshold, the shear pin 218 fails thereby to allow the arms 210 and 214 to separate and permit the boom 86 to pivot downwardly. The point at which the shear pin 218 fails is selected to avoid damage to the wall surface 78 from occurring as a result of the mounting bracket 84 being pulled from the wall surface. During downward swinging of the boom 86 under continued application of the applied load and/or under its own weight, the springs 210 extend thereby resisting downward pivoting of the boom 86 and controlling the descent of the boom 86 in a manner to avoid injury to anyone and/or damage to anything beneath the boom 86 as well as to avoid damage to the projector 88 and the mirror 89 supported by the boom 86 . As with the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 5 , the number and arrangement of mechanical fuse assemblies and coil springs 210 can be varied. [0033] Turning now to FIGS. 8 and 9 , yet another embodiment of a safety device is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 300 . The safety device 300 in this embodiment is very similar to that shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 . As can be seen, the safety device 300 comprises a pair of spaced bands 302 a and 302 b respectively, with each band having a pair of laterally spaced holes 304 provided therein. The holes 304 in band 302 a accommodate fasteners that secure the band to the horizontal flange 96 . The holes 304 in band 302 b accommodate fasteners that secure the band to the top of the boom 86 . The bands 302 a and 302 b are joined by a central mechanical fuse assembly 306 . A pair of dashpots 310 (i.e. pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder and piston arrangements) also joins the bands 302 a and 302 b . Each dashpot 310 is positioned on an opposite side of the central mechanical fuse assembly 306 . The mechanical fuse assembly comprises an arm 312 integral with the band 302 b that terminates midway between the bands. The distal end of the arm 312 is configured to form a recess 314 . An arm 316 integral with the band 302 a terminates with its distal end accommodated in the recess 314 . A shear pin 318 passes through the arms 312 and 316 and the recess 314 thereby to interconnect and retain the arms and inhibit their separation. As will be appreciated, the safety device 300 functions in a manner almost identical to that of safety device 200 except that during downward swinging of the boom 86 , the dashpots 310 control the descent of the boom 86 . [0034] Each of the safety devices need not carry a single type of mechanical fuse or boom-pivoting resisting element. If desired, each safety device may comprise a variety of boom-pivoting resisting elements and/or a variety of mechanical fuses. For example, the safety device may comprise one or more chain-link elements as well as one or more spring elements and/or dashpots. The safety device may also comprise one or more elongated links and one or more mechanical fuse assemblies. [0035] Turning now to FIG. 10 yet another embodiment of a safety device is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 400 . In this embodiment, the safety device 400 comprises a shear pin 420 extending upwardly from the top surface of the boom 86 adjacent the mounting bracket 84 . A retainer 422 in the form of a triangular ring extends from the mounting bracket 84 and surrounds the shear pin 422 . A coil spring 424 is secured at one end to the mounting bracket 84 and at its opposite end to the top surface of the boom 86 . Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7 , during normal loading, the shear pin 420 remains intact thereby trapping the retainer 422 and keeping the boom 86 in its generally horizontal orientation. However, if the boom 86 is overloaded, when the load placed on the boom reaches the threshold, the shear pin 420 fails thereby releasing the retainer 422 and permitting the boom 86 to pivot downwardly. During the downward swinging of the boom 86 , the coil spring 424 controls the descent of the boom 86 . [0036] FIG. 11 shows still yet another embodiment of a safety device 500 . In this embodiment, the safety device 500 is very similar to that shown in FIG. 10 . As can be seen, the safety device 500 comprises a shear pin 520 extending upwardly from the top surface of the boom 86 adjacent the mounting bracket 84 . A retainer 522 in the form of a triangular ring extends from the mounting bracket 84 and surrounds the shear pin 520 . A dashpot 524 is secured at one end to the mounting bracket 84 and at its opposite end to the top surface of the boom 86 . As will be appreciated, the safety device 500 functions almost identical to that of safety device 400 except during downward swinging of the boom 86 , the dashpot 524 controls the descent of the boom. [0037] Turning now to FIGS. 12 and 13 still yet another embodiment of a safety device is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 600 . In this embodiment, the safety device comprises a spool 602 rotatably mounted on the mounting bracket 84 . A tether 604 is wound about the spool 602 and is attached at its free end to the boom 86 . A retaining pin 606 extends through the spool 602 thereby to inhibit rotation of the spool and hence, paying out of the tether 604 . A brake 608 exerts force on the spool 602 . [0038] In operation, during normal loading the integrity of the retaining pin 606 remains intact thereby locking the spool 602 and tether 604 and keeping the boom 86 in its generally horizontal orientation. However, if the boom 86 is overloaded, the retaining pin 606 fails allowing the spool 602 to rotate and pay out the tether 604 thereby permitting the boom 86 to pivot downwardly. During the downward pivoting of the boom 86 , the brake 608 , which exerts a force on the spool 602 , resists the downward pivoting of the boom 86 thereby to control the descent of the boom. [0039] Those of skill in the art will appreciate that use of the safety device is not limited to a boom assembly 82 supporting a projector 88 and mirror 89 . Other equipment such as for example camera assemblies, mirrors, microphones etc. may be supported by the boom assembly. In fact, the safety device may be used in virtually any environment where a cantilevered beam may be subjected to overloading. [0040] Although embodiments have been described, those of skill in the art will appreciate that variations and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope thereof as defined by the appended claims.
A safety device for a cantilevered beam pivotally mounted adjacent one end thereof to a support surface is adapted to bridge the beam and the support surface and is structured so that when coupled to the beam and support surface, the safety device maintains the beam in a substantially fixed cantilevered condition until a downward force exceeding a threshold is applied to the beam and thereafter controls downward pivoting of the beam.
5
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/512,034, filed Oct. 17, 2003, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/609,288, filed Sep. 13, 2004, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] This invention is in the field of ubiquitin ligation and inhibitors of the ubiquitination pathway. Additionally, this invention is in the field of treating diseases or conditions associated with ubiquitination. [0004] 2. Summary of the Related Art [0005] Ubiquitin is a 76 amino acid protein present throughout the eukaryotic kingdom. It is a highly conserved protein and is essentially the identical protein in diverse organisms ranging from humans to yeasts to fruit flies. In eukaryotes, ubiquitin is the key component of the ATP-dependent pathway for protein degradation. Proteins slated for degradation are covalently linked to ubiquitin via an ATP-dependent process catalyzed by three separate enzymes. [0006] Ubiquitin has also been implicated as key components in other biochemical processes. Ubiquitination of the Gag structural protein of Rous Sarcoma virus has been linked to the targeting of Gag to the cell membrane of the host cell where it can assemble into spherical particles and bud from the cell surface. Production of HIV particles has also been associated with ubiquitination and may constitute an important cellular pathway for producing infectious particles. Thus, the ubiquitin pathway may be an important target for treatment of HIV positive patients. [0007] There is a need for inhibitors of ubiquitin ligation that can alter the ATP-dependent ubiquitination of proteins. Inhibition of ubiquitination can regulate the degradation of proteins in ways that assist in treating various disorders. Inhibitors of ubiquitin ligases may also help in treating infectious diseases such as bacterial and viral infections that depend on the cellular biochemical machinery. [0008] The ubiquitination of these target proteins is known to be mediated by the enzymatic activity of three ubiquitin agents. Ubiquitin is first activated in an ATP-dependent manner by a ubiquitin activating agent, for example, an E1. The C-terminus of a ubiquitin forms a high energy thiolester bond with the ubiquitin activating agent. The ubiquitin is then transferred to a ubiquitin conjugating agent, for example, an E2 (also called ubiquitin moiety carrier protein), also linked to this second ubiquitin agent via a thiolester bond. The ubiquitin is finally linked to its target protein (e.g. substrate) to form a terminal isopeptide bond under the guidance of a ubiquitin ligating agent, for example, an E3. In this process, monomers or oligomers of ubiquitin are attached to the target protein. On the target protein, each ubiquitin is covalently ligated to the next ubiquitin through the activity of a ubiquitin ligating agent to form polymers of ubiquitin. [0009] The enzymatic components of the ubiquitination pathway have received considerable attention (for a review, see Weissman, Nature Reviews 2:169-178 (2001)). The members of the E1 ubiquitin activating agents and E2 ubiquitin conjugating agents are structurally related and well characterized enzymes. There are numerous species of E2 ubiquitin conjugating agents, some of which act in preferred pairs with specific E3 ubiquitin ligating agents to confer specificity for different target proteins. While the nomenclature for the E2 ubiquitin conjugating agents is not standardized across species, investigators in the field have addressed this issue and the skilled artisan can readily identify various E2 ubiquitin conjugating agents, as well as species homologues (See Haas and Siepmann, FASEB J. 11:1257-1268 (1997)). [0010] Ubiquitin agents, such as the ubiquitin activating agents, ubiquitin conjugating agents, and ubiquitin ligating agents, are key determinants of the ubiquitin-mediated proteolytic pathway that results in the degradation of targeted proteins and regulation of cellular processes. Consequently, agents that modulate the activity of such ubiquitin agents may be used to upregulate or downregulate specific molecules involved in cellular signal transduction. Disease processes can be treated by such up- or down regulation of signal transducers to enhance or dampen specific cellular responses. This principle has been used in the design of a number of therapeutics, including phosphodiesterase inhibitors for airway disease and vascular insufficiency, kinase inhibitors for malignant transformation and Proteasome inhibitors for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. [0011] Due to the importance of ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis in cellular process, for example cell cycle regulation, there is a need for a fast and simple means for identifying the physiological role of ubiquitin agents that are catalytic components of this enzymatic pathway, and for identifying which ubiquitin agents are involved in various regulatory pathways. Thus, an object of the present invention is to provide compounds, compositions and methods of assaying for the physiological role of ubiquitin agents, and for providing methods for determining which ubiquitin agents are involved together in a variety of different physiological pathways. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0012] The invention comprises compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of the compounds for inhibiting ubiquitin agents. The pharmaceutical compositions can be used in treating various conditions where ubiquitination is involved. They can also be used as research tools to study the role of ubiquitin in various natural and pathological processes. [0013] In a first aspect, the invention comprises compounds that inhibit ubiquitination of target proteins. [0014] In a second aspect, the invention comprises a pharmaceutical composition comprising an inhibitor of ubiquitination according to the invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient, or diluent. [0015] In a third aspect, the invention comprises methods of inhibiting ubiquitination in a cell, comprising contacting a cell in which inhibition of ubiquitination is desired with a pharmaceutical composition comprising a ubiquitin agent inhibitor according to the invention. [0016] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides methods for treating cell proliferative diseases or conditions, comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition comprising an effective amount of a ubiquitin agent inhibitor according to the invention. The invention also provides for the use of a compound or composition of the invention for the manufacture of a medicament for use in treating cell proliferative diseases or conditions. [0017] In a fifth aspect, the invention provides methods for treating HIV infection and related conditions, comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition comprising an effective amount of a ubiquitin agent inhibitor according to the invention. The invention also provides for the use of a compound or composition of the invention for the manufacture of a medicament for use in treating HIV infection and related conditions. [0018] The foregoing only summarizes certain aspects of the invention and is not intended to be limiting in nature. These aspects and other aspects and embodiments are described more fully below. All patent applications and publications of any sort referred to in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event of a discrepancy between the express disclosure of this specification and a patent application or publication incorporated by reference, the express disclosure of this specification shall control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0019] The invention relates to compounds of the formula: and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein A 1 , A 2 , A 3 , A 4 are independently nitrogen or carbon; L is a bond, —C 1 -C 6 alkylene-, —C 2 -C 6 alkenylene-, —NH—, or —NH—C(═O)—; R 1 is C 1 -C 6 alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, -aryl-W-aryl, -aryl-W-heterocyclyl, or heterocyclyl-W-aryl, wherein W is a bond, —O—, —SO 2 —, or —C(═O)—; R 2 is H, C 1 -C 6 alkyl, or is linked to a carbon of R 1 through a carbonyl group; R 3 and R 5 are independently H, halogen, or C 1 -C 6 alkyl; R 4 and R 6 are independently H, halogen, C(O)R 7 , NR 8 R 9 , nitro, C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, OCF 3 , CF 3 , aryl, —C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, heteroaryl, —C 1-6 -alkyl-heteroaryl, C(O)NR 8 R 9 , C(O)C(O)NR 8 R 9 , C 1 -C 6 alkyl-C(O)—NH—, NR 8 R 9 —SO 2 — or R 10 —SO 2 —; or R 3 and R 4 together with the carbon atoms to which they attached form a 5-6 membered aryl or heteroaryl group, wherein the group is optionally substituted with C 1 -C 6 alkyl; or R 4 and R 5 together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached form a 5-6 membered aryl or heteroaryl group, wherein the group is optionally substituted with C 1 -C 6 alkyl; provided that if A 1 is nitrogen, R 3 is absent, if A 2 is nitrogen, R 4 is absent, of A 3 is nitrogen, R 5 is absent, and if A 4 is nitrogen, R 6 is absent; R 7 is hydrogen, C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, C(Z)-R 11 where Z is CH 2 or O, heteroaryl, aryl, or a group of the formula wherein n is 1 to 5 and each R 12 is the same or different and is C 1-6 -alkyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, halo-C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-6 -alkoxy, or cyano, NHC(O)— C 1-6 -alkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkylene, C(O)—O—C 1-6 -alkyl, or C(O)—aryl; R 8 and R 9 are independently hydrogen, or C 1 -C 6 -alkyl; R 10 is C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, aryl, or heteroaryl; R 11 is C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, aryl, or NR 8 R 9 ; with the proviso that R 4 and R 6 are not simultaneously hydrogen; and wherein each one of the alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl of R 1 to R 12 is optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl, and two substituents on aryl, together with the atoms to which they are attached, optionally form a dioxane ring. [0036] Preferred compounds of the formula (I) include compounds of formula (II): and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein L is a bond, —C 1 -C 6 alkylene-, —C 2 -C 6 alkenylene-, —NH—, or —NH—C(═O)—; R 1 is C 1 -C 6 alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, -aryl-W-aryl, -aryl-W-heterocyclyl, or heterocyclyl-W-aryl, wherein W is a bond, —O—, —SO 2 —, or —C(═O)—; R 2 is H, C 1 -C 6 alkyl, or is linked to a carbon of R 1 through a carbonyl group; R 4 and R 6 are independently H, halogen, C(O)R 7 , NR 8 R 9 , nitro, C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, OCF 3 , CF 3 , aryl, —C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, heteroaryl, —C 1-6 -alkyl-heteroaryl, C(O)NR 8 R 9 , C(O)C(O)NR 8 R 9 , C 1 -C 6 alkyl-C(O)—NH—, NR 8 R 9 —SO 2 — or R 10 SO 2 —; R 7 is hydrogen, C 1-6 alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, C(Z)-R 11 where Z is CH 2 or O, heteroaryl, aryl, or a group of the formula wherein n is 1 to 5 and each R 12 is the same or different and is C 1-6 -alkyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, halo-C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-6 -alkoxy, or cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-6 -alkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkylene, C(O)—O—C 1-6 -alkyl, or C(O)-aryl; R 8 and R 9 are independently hydrogen, or C 1 -C 6 -alkyl; R 10 is C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, aryl, or heteroaryl; R 11 is C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, aryl, or NR 8 R 9 ; with the proviso that R 4 and R 6 are not simultaneously hydrogen; and wherein each one of the alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl of the above groups is optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)— C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl, and two substituents on aryl, together with the atoms to which they are attached, optionally form a dioxane ring. [0048] Preferred compounds of formula (II) include compounds of formula (II)-1 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formula (II) in which L is a bond, —NH—, or —NH—C(═O)—, and R 1 is aryl, optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo- 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl, and two substituents on aryl, together with the atoms to which they are attached, optionally form a dioxane ring. [0049] Preferred compounds of formula (II)-1 include those wherein R 1 is phenyl or naphthyl, each of which is optionally substituted with one or two groups selected from C 1 -8-alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl. [0050] Preferred compounds of formula (II)-1 also include those wherein R 1 is phenyl, optionally substituted with one or two groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl. [0051] Preferred compounds of formula (II) further include compounds of formula (II)-2 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formula (II) wherein L is a bond, —NH—, or —NH—C(═O)—, and R 1 is heteroaryl, optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl. [0052] Preferred compounds of formula (II) further include compounds of formula (II)-3 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formula (II) wherein L is a bond, —NH—, or —NH—C(═O)—, and R 1 is cycloalkyl, optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl. [0053] Preferred compounds of formula (II) further include compounds of formula (II)-4 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formula (II) wherein L is a bond, —NH—, or —NH—C(═O)—, and R 1 is heterocyclyl, optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)—cycloalkyl, NHC(O)-C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl. [0054] Preferred heteroaryl, cycloakyl, and heterocyclyl groups in compounds of formulae (II)-2, (II)-3, and (III)-4 include: pyyrolidinyl, indolinyl, indolyl, adamantyl, piperidinyl, cyclohexyl, cyclobutenyl, thiophene, pyridinyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl, thiadiazolyl, benzothiophene, 1,3-dioxoisoindolinyl, pyrazolyl, dihydroquinolinyl, cyclopentyl, and azetidinyl. [0055] Preferred compounds of formulae (II), (II)-1, (II)-2, (II)-3, and (II)-4 include compounds of formula (II)-5 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formulae (II), (II)-1, (II)-2, (II)-3, or (II)-4 wherein R 6 is hydrogen, and R 4 is C 1-6 -alkoxy. [0056] Preferred compounds of formula (II)-5 include those wherein R 6 is hydrogen and R 4 is ethoxy or methoxy. [0057] Preferably excluded from the invention is the compound of formula (II) wherein R 4 is methoxy, R 6 is hydrogen, R 2 is hydrogen, L is a bond, and R 1 is benzimidazolyl attached to the main compound at the 2-position of the benzimidazolyl group. [0058] Preferred compounds of the formula (I) include compounds of formula (III): and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R 1 is C 1 -C 6 alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, -aryl-W-aryl, -aryl-W-heterocyclyl, or heterocyclyl-W-aryl, wherein W is a bond, —O—, —SO 2 , or —C(═O)—; R 2 is H, C 1 -C 6 alkyl, or is linked to a carbon of R 1 through a carbonyl group; R 4 and R 6 are independently H, halogen, C(O)R 7 , NR 8 R 9 , nitro, C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, OCF 3 , CF 3 , aryl, —C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, heteroaryl, —C 1-6 -alkyl-heteroaryl, C(O)NR 8 R 9 , C(O)C(O)NR 8 R 9 , C 1 -C 6 alkyl-C(O)—NH—, NR 8 R 9 —SO 2 — or R 10 —SO 2 ; R 7 is hydrogen, C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, C(Z)—R 11 where Z is CH 2 or O, heteroaryl, aryl, or a group of the formula wherein n is 1 to 5 and each R 12 is the same or different and is C 1-6 -alkyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, halo-C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, halo-C 1-6 -alkoxy, or cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-6 -alkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkylene, C(O)—O—C 1-6 -alkyl, or C(O)-aryl; R 8 and R 9 are independently hydrogen, or C 1 -C 6 -alkyl; R 10 is C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, aryl, or heteroaryl; R 11 is C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkyl-aryl, aryl, or NR 8 R 9 ; with the proviso that R 4 and R 6 are not simultaneously hydrogen; and wherein each one of the alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl of the above groups is optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl, and two substituents on aryl, together with the atoms to which they are attached, optionally form a dioxane ring. [0069] Preferred compounds of formula (III) include compounds of formula (III)-1 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formula III wherein R 1 is aryl, optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)—O—R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl, and two substituents on aryl, together with the atoms to which they are attached, optionally form a dioxane ring. [0070] Preferred compounds of formula (III)-1 include compounds wherein R 1 is phenyl, optionally substituted with 1, 2, or 3 groups independently selected from halogen, halo-C 1 -C 6 alkyl, cyano, —N—C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, nitro, C 1 -C 6 alkoxy, and C 1 -C 6 alkyl. [0071] Preferred compounds of formula (III) include compounds of formula (III)-2 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formula (III) wherein R 1 is heteroaryl, optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from C 1-8 -alkyl, C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, hydroxy, halogen, nitro, oxo, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, halo-C 1-8 -alkyl, C 1-8 -alkoxy, halo-C 1-8 -alkoxy, cyano, NHC(O)—C 1-8 -alkyl, NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkenyl, NHC(O)-aryl-C(O)—O—C 1-8 -alkyl, C(O)O-R 13 , —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 8 alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, wherein R 13 is H or C 1 -C 8 alkyl. [0072] Preferred compounds of formula (III)-2 include compounds wherein R 1 is thienyl, benzothienyl, furanyl, benzofuranyl, dibenzofuranyl, pyrrolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl, pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidinyl, indolyl, quinolyl, isoquinolyl, quinoxalinyl, tetrazolyl, oxazolyl, thiazolyl, or isoxazolyl, each of which is optionally substituted with 1, 2, or 3 groups independently selected from halogen, halo-C 1 -C 6 alkyl, cyano, —N—C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, nitro, C 1 -C 6 alkoxy, and C 1 -C 6 alkyl. [0073] Preferred compounds of formula (III)-2 include compounds wherein R 1 is furanyl or thiophene, which are optionally substituted with 1, 2, or 3 groups independently selected from halogen, halo-C 1 -C 6 alkyl, cyano, —N—C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, nitro, C 1 -C 6 alkoxy, and C 1 -C 6 alkyl. [0074] Preferred compounds of formulae (III), (III)-1, and (III)-2 include compounds of formula (III)-3 (and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts), which are compounds of formulae (III), (III)-1, or (III)-2 wherein R 6 is hydrogen, and R 4 is C 1-6 alkoxy. [0075] Preferred compounds of formula (III)-3 include those wherein R 6 is hydrogen and R 4 is ethoxy or methoxy. [0076] Preferred compounds of the formula (I) also include compounds of formula (IV): and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R 4 is C 1-6 -alkoxy; and R 14 and R 15 are independently H, halogen, amino, nitro, cyano, C 1 -C 6 alkyl, C 1 -C 6 alkoxy, —C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, —O—(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, —NH—C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, —NH—C(O)—C 3 -C 7 cycloalkyl, —NH—C(O)—C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, —SO 2 —NR 16 R 17 , or R 14 and R 15 together with the atoms to which they are attached form a six membered ring containing one or two heteroaroms atoms selected from —NH— and —O—; R 16 and R 17 are independently H, or C 1 -C 6 alkyl, or R 16 and R 17 together with the nitrogen to which they are attached form a 4-8 membered heterocyclic ring, which is optionally substituted. [0082] Preferred compounds of the formula (I) also include compounds of formula (V): and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R 4 is C 1-6 -alkoxy; and R 14 and R 15 are independently H, halogen, amino, nitro, cyano, C 1 -C 6 alkyl, C 1 -C 6 alkoxy, —C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, —O—C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, —NH—C(O)—C 1 -C 6 alkyl, —NH—C(O)-C 3 -C 7 cycloalkyl, —NH—C(O)—C 2 -C 6 alkenyl, —SO 2 —NR 16 R 17 ; R 16 and R 17 are independently H, or C 1 -C 6 alkyl, or R 16 and R 17 together with the nitrogen to which they are attached form a 4-8 membered heterocyclic ring, which is optionally substituted. [0087] Among preferred compounds of formula (I) are those wherein R 12 is C 1-6 -alkyl, C 1-6 -alkoxy, halogen, nitro, NHC(O)—C 1-6 -alkyl, NHC(O)C 2-6 -alkylene, C(O)—O—C 1-6 -alkyl, or C(O)-aryl, R 1 is hydrogen or C 1-6 -alkyl, and R 3 , R 4 , R 5 and R 6 are hydrogen, halogen, C 1-6 -alkoxy, C 1-6 -alkyl, or nitro. [0088] Other preferred compounds of formula (I) are those wherein R 12 is C 1-6 -alkyl, NHC(O)—C 1-6 -alkyl, or NHC(O)—C 2-6 -alkylene, R 4 is C 1-6 -alkoxy and R 1 , R 3 , R 5 and R 6 are hydrogen. [0089] Still other preferred compounds of formula (I) are those wherein R 12 is methyl, NHC(O)—CH 3 , or NHC(O)—(C═CH 2 )—CH 3 , R 4 is methoxy, and R 1 , R 3 , R 5 , and R 6 are hydrogen. [0090] We have found that the foregoing compounds are useful inhibitors of ubiquitinization, as described more fully below. [0091] Some useful compounds according to one aspect of the invention are given in the following Tables 1 and 2. Compounds in Table 1 are known in the art and commercially available. Compounds in Table 2 can be readily prepared by a person of ordinary skill in the art using the procedures described herein, or by synthetic procedures generally known in the art. Indeed, there is more than one process to prepare the compounds of the invention. [0092] Compounds of the invention include those of formula (I), (II), (II)-1, (II)-2, (II)-3, (II)-4, (II)-5, (III), (III)-1, (III)-2, (III)-3, (IV), and (V), provided that they are not one of the compounds in Table 1. TABLE 1 Cmpd Structure Name 1 N-(6-bromo-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)-4-methoxybenzamide 3 N-(6-methoxy-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)-4-methylbenzamide 4 4-(acetylamino)-N-(6-methoxy- 1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)benzamide 5 4-(methacryloylamino)-N-(6- methoxy-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)benzamide 6 N-(6-bromo-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)-3-methylbenzamide 8 3,5-dichloro-N-(4-methoxy-6-nitro- 1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)benzamide 9 3-bromo-N-(4-methoxy-6-nitro- 1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)benzamide 10 N-(4,6-dimethyl-1,3-benzothiazol- 2-yl)-2-methoxybenzamide 11 4-chloro-N-(6-ethoxy-1,3- benzothiazol-2-yl)-3- nitrobenzamide 12 4-benzoyl-N-(6-nitro-1,3- benzothiazol-2-yl)benzamide 13 N-(6-bromo-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)-4-nitrobenzamide 14 N-(5-methoxy-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)-2,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodioxine- 6-carboxamide 15 4-methacrylamido-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 16 4-amino-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 17 4-acetamido-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 18 2-chloro-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- nitrobenzamide 19 4-(cyclohexanecarboxamido)-N- (6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 20 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-3-methyl-4-nitrobenzamide 21 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4-methylbenzamide 22 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-3,4-dimethylbenzamide 23 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4-methyl-3-nitrobenzamide 24 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4-nitrobenzamide 25 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-2-napthamide 26 methyl 4-((6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)carbamoyl)benzoate 27 4-((6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)carbamoyl)phenyl acetate 28 4-acetyl-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 29 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-2,3- dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxine-6- carboxamide 30 4-chloro-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 31 4-cyano-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 32 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 33 4′-methoxy-N-(6-methoxy-1,3- benzothiazol-2-yl)biphenyl-4- carboxamide 34 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4-(pyrrolidin-1- ylsulfonyl)benzamide 35 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4-phenoxybenzamide 36 4-methoxy-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 37 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-1-tosylpyrrolidine-2- carboxamide 41 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)acetamide 42 N-(6-methoxy-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)adamantane-1-carboxamide 43 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-2-phenylacetamide 45 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4- propylcyclohexanecarboxamide 49 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)thiophene-2-carboxamide 50 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-5-nitrothiophene-2- carboxamide 51 2-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)isoindoline-1,3-dione 52 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)isonicotinamide 53 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)nicotinamide 54 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-3-nitrobenzamide 55 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-1-naphthamide 57 4-fluoro-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 68 3-methyl-N-(7- methyl[1,3]thiazolo[4,5- g][1,3]benzothiazol-2- yl)benzamide 70 N-(6-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- methylbenzamide 71 4-methyl-N-(4- methylbenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 72 N-(6-acetamidobenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4-methylbenzamide 73 N-[6-(aminosulfonyl)-1,3- benzothiazol-2-yl]-4- methylbenzamide 74 methyl 4-((6- aminobenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)carbamoyl)benzoate 76 3,4-dimethyl-N-(4- methylbenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 77 4-ethyl-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 78 4-ethyl-N-(6- methylbenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 79 3,4-dimethyl-N-(6- nitrobenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 80 3,4-dimethyl-N-(6- methylbenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 81 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-4-propylbenzamide 82 4-butyl-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 83 4-hexyl-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 84 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- methylbenzamide 85 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- ethylbenzamide 86 4-amino-N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 87 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)furan-2-carboxamide 88 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)furan-2- carboxamide 89 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)thiophene- 2-carboxamide 90 N-(6-ethoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)- 2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxine- 6-carboxamide 91 N-(6-ethoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)- 4-ethylbenzamide 92 N-(6-ethoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)- 4-methylbenzamide 93 N-(6-ethoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)- 3,4-dimethylbenzamide 94 4-acetamido-N-(6- ethoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 95 3,4-dichloro-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 96 3,4-dichloro-N-(6- ethoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 97 N-1-adamantyl-N′-(6-methoxy-1,3- benzothiazol-2-yl)urea 98 1-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)- 3-phenylurea 99 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 100 1-(3-fluorophenyl)-3-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 102 3-(5-((6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol- 2-yl)carbamoyl)-2,4-dimethyl-1H- pyrrol-3-yl)propanoic acid 105 1-(2,6-dichlorobenzoyl)-3-(5- methylbenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 106 1-(5-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (2,6-dichlorobenzoyl)urea 107 1-(2,6-dichlorobenzoyl)-3-(5- fluorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 108 1-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3-(1,2,3- thiadiazole-4-carbonyl)urea 109 1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-3-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 110 1-(5-chloro-2-methoxyphenyl)-3- (4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 111 1-(4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (3-fluorophenyl)urea 112 1-(4-chloro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4- chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 113 1-(4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (4-fluorophenyl)urea 114 1-(4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (2-fluorophenyl)urea 115 1-(2-chloro-5- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4- chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 116 1-(2,5-difluorophenyl)-3-(5,6- dimethylbenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 117 1-(5,6-dimethylbenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-3-(3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)urea 118 1-(7-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (2,5-difluorophenyl)urea 119 1-(4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)urea 120 1-(2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-3-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 121 1-(4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (2,5-difluorophenyl)urea 122 1-(5,6-dimethylbenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-3-(3-fluorophenyl)urea 123 1-(4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (2,3-dichlorophenyl)urea 124 1-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-3-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 125 ethyl 4-(3-(4- chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)ureido)benzoate 126 ethyl 4-(3-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)ureido)benzoate 127 1-(4-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- (4-fluoro-3-nitrophenyl)urea 128 1-(4-chloro-2- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4- chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 129 1-(3-chloro-4-methylphenyl)-3-(4- chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 130 1-(4-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)- 3-p-tolylurea 131 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-(6- (methylsulfonyl)benzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)urea 132 1-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)- 3-phenylurea 133 1-(6-nitrobenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- phenylurea 134 ethyl 4-(3-(6- chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)ureido)benzoate 135 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-(4- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 136 ethyl 4-(3-(6- ethoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)ureido)benzoate 139 N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4- b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide 152 N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4- b]pyridin-2-yl)-4-methylbenzamide 155 4-chloro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 156 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-5- nitrofuran-2-carboxamide 157 ethyl 6-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- ylcarbamoyl)picolinate 158 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- chlorobenzo[b]thiophene-2- carboxamide 159 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- bromobenzamide 160 2′-[(1,3-benzothiazol-2- ylamino)carbonyl]biphenyl-2- carboxylic acid 161 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- butylbenzamide 162 (E)-N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3-(2- methoxyphenyl)acrylamide 163 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- nitrobenzamide 164 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- fluorobenzamide 165 N-1,3-benzothiazol-2- yladamantane-1-carboxamide 166 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2,4 dichlorobenzamide 167 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-5-chloro- 2-methoxybenzamide 168 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 169 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- nitrobenzamide 170 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- propylbenzamide 171 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-1- tosylpyrrolidine-2-carboxamide 172 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- bromobenzamide 173 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-chloro- 3-nitrobenzamide 174 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- fluorobenzamide 175 (E)-N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3-(4- methoxyphenyl)acrylamide 176 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-tert- butylbenzamide 177 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)nicotinamide 178 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- methoxybenzamide 179 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- fluorobenzamide 180 2-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- ylcarbamoyl)-3-nitrobenzoic acid 181 2-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-1,3- dioxoisoindoline-5-carboxylic acid 182 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-methyl- 3-nitrobenzamide 183 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- chloronicotinamide 184 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-(4- nitrophenyl)acetamide 185 3-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- ylcarbamoyl)-2,2,3- trimethylcyclopentanecarboxylic acid 186 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- chlorobenzamide 187 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-bromo- 1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3- carboxamide 188 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-chloro- 2-nitrobenzamide 189 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- methoxybenzamide 190 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- methoxy-3-nitrobenzamide 191 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2,6- dichlorobenzamide 192 methyl 3-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- ylcarbamoyl)-5-nitrobenzoate 193 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-methyl- 3-nitrobenzamide 194 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- chlorobenzamide 195 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3- iodobenzamide 196 1-allyl-N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2- dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide 197 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-hydroxy- 1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2- dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide 198 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3,4- dichlorobenzamide 199 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-chloro- 1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3- carboxamide 200 3-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- ylcarbamoyl)-1,2,2- trimethylcyclopentanecarboxylic acid 201 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-1-ethyl-4- hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2- dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide 202 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-(5- ethylpyridin-2-yl)benzamide 203 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-chloro- 4-nitrobenzamide 204 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-3-methyl- 4-nitrobenzamide 205 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)cyclohexanecarboxamide 206 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-chloro- 5-nitrobenzamide 207 methyl 6-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- ylcarbamoyl)picolinate 208 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-5- bromofuran-2-carboxamide 209 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-1-butyl-4- hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2- dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide 210 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-(4- pentylcyclohexyl)benzamide 211 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-(5- pentylpyridin-2-yl)benzamide 212 4-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- ylcarbamoyl)phenyl octanoate 213 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- hexylbenzamide 214 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- (pentyloxy)benzamide 215 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- chloronicotinamide 216 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-(4- propylcyclohexyl)benzamide 217 1-allyl-N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2- dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide 218 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-(5- propylpyridin-2-yl)benzamide 219 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-5- bromonicotinamide 220 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- (hexyloxy)benzamide 221 N-1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl-4- methoxybiphenyl-4-carboxamide [0093] TABLE 2 Cmpd Structure Name 60 3-methoxy-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 56 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-3-methylbenzamide 59 2-fluoro-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 61 2-methoxy-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 75 4-methyl-N-(6- (trifluoromethoxy)benzo[d]thiazol- 2-yl)benzamide 223 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- (dimethylamino)benzamide 101 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-2,4-dimethylbenzamide 222 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4- isopropylbenzamide 224 (R)-N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)azetidine-2-carboxamide 44 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)piperidine-4-carboxamide 225 N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)piperidine- 4-carboxamide 39 (R)-N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol- 2-yl)indoline-2-carboxamide 38 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)indoline-2-carboxamide 47 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)isobutyramide 48 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)pivalamide 46 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)cyclobutanecarboxamide 40 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-2- yl)acetamide 58 3-fluoro-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)benzamide 103 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-3-methylthiophene-2- carboxamide 104 3-chloro-N-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)thiophene-2-carboxamide 137 1-(4-cyanophenyl)-3-(6- methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)urea 138 N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4- b]pyridin-2-yl)thiophene-2- carboxamide 140 2,4-dichloro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 141 3-fluoro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 142 3-chloro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 143 N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4- b]pyridin-2-yl)-3-methylthiophene- 2-carboxamide 144 3-chloro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)thiophene-2-carboxamide 145 2,6-difluoro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 146 3,4-difluoro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 147 N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4- b]pyridin-2-yl)-4- (trifluoromethyl)benzamide 148 4-cyano-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 149 4-acetamido-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 150 N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4- b]pyridin-2-yl)-4-nitrobenzamide 151 4-methoxy-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 153 N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4- b]pyridin-2-yl)furan-2- carboxamide 154 4-fluoro-N-(5- methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2- yl)benzamide 226 N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2- yl)-1H-indole-2-carboxamide [0094] The compounds in the tables above can be prepared using art recognized methods. All of the compounds in this application were named using Chemdraw Ultra version 6.0.2, which is available through Cambridgesoft.co, 100 Cambridge Park Drive, Cambridge, Mass. 02140, Namepro version 5.09, which is available from ACD labs, 90 Adelaide Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5H, 3V9, Canada, or were derived therefrom. [0095] In a second aspect the invention comprises pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of formula (I), (II), (II)-1, (II)-2, (II)-3, (II)-4, (II)-5, (III), (III)-1, (III)-2, (III)-3, (IV), or (V) together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient, or diluent. [0096] The compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of the invention are useful for inhibiting ubiquitination in a cell. Specifically, the pharmaceutical compositions target the E1 activating agent of the ubiquitination process thereby preventing transfer of ATP-activated ubiquitin to the E2 conjugating agent. The inhibition of the E1 activating agent prevents ubiquitination of proteins since it also interrupts the downstream function of the E2 conjugating agent and the E3 ligating agent in the ubiquitination pathway. Thus, the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention indirectly inhibit both the E2 conjugating agent and the E3 ligating agent. [0097] Accordingly, the invention also comprises methods of inhibiting ubiquitination in a cell comprising contacting a cell in which inhibition of ubiquitination is desired with a compound or pharmaceutical composition according to the invention. The invention also comprises methods for treating cell proliferative diseases and other conditions in a patient in which ubiquitination is an important component. For example, diseases and conditions that can be treated are cancers and conditions related to cancers. However, any disease and condition in which ubiquitination is a component can be treated with the compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of the invention. [0098] The compounds and compositions of the invention are also useful for preventing and/or treating malaria. Accordingly, the invention further comprises methods of treating and of preventing malaria by administering to a subject (preferably human) an amount of a compound or composition of the invention effective to prevent and/or treat malaria. The invention also provides for the use of a compound or composition of the invention for the manufacture of a medicament for use in treating and/or preventing malaria. [0099] For simplicity, chemical moieties are defined and referred to throughout primarily as univalent chemical moieties (e.g., alkyl, aryl, etc.). Nevertheless, such terms are also used to convey corresponding multivalent moieties under the appropriate structural circumstances clear to those skilled in the art. For example, while an “alkyl” moiety generally refers to a monovalent radical (e.g. CH 3 —CH 2 —), in certain circumstances a bivalent linking moiety can be “alkyl,” in which case those skilled in the art will understand the alkyl to be a divalent radical (e.g., —CH 2 —CH 2 ), which is equivalent to the term “alkylene.” (Similarly, in circumstances in which a divalent moiety is required and is stated as being “aryl,” those skilled in the art will understand that the term “aryl” refers to the corresponding divalent moiety, arylene.) All atoms are understood to have their normal number of valences for bond formation (i.e., 4 for carbon, 3 for N, 2 for O, and 2, 4, or 6 for S, depending on the oxidation state of the S). On occasion a moiety may be defined, for example, as (A) a -B-, wherein a is 0 or 1. In such instances, when a is 0 the moiety is B- and when a is 1 the moiety is A-B-. Also, a number of moieties disclosed herein exist in multiple tautomeric forms, all of which are intended to be encompassed by any given tautomeric structure. Other stereochemical forms of the compounds of the invention are also encompassed including but not limited to enantiomers, diastereomers, and other isomers such as rotamers. [0100] For simplicity, when a substituent can be of a particular chemical class differing by the number of atoms or groups of the same kind in the moiety (e.g., alky, which can be C 1 , C 2 , C 3 , etc.), the number of repeated atoms or groups is represented by a range (e.g., C 1 -C 6 -alkyl). In such instances each and every number in that range and all sub-ranges are specifically contemplated. Thus, C 1 -C 3 alkyl means C 1 —, C 2 —, C 3 —, C 1-2 , C 1-3 —, and C 2-3 -alkyl. [0101] In addition to individual preferred embodiments of each substituent defined herein, the invention also comprises all combinations of preferred substituents. [0102] The term “alkyl” as employed herein refers to straight and branched chain aliphatic groups having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, preferably 1-8 carbon atoms, more preferably 1-6 carbon atoms, which is optionally substituted with one, two or three substituents. Unless otherwise specified, the alkyl group may be saturated, unsaturated, or partially unsaturated. As used herein, therefore, the term “alkyl” is specifically intended to include alkenyl and alkynyl groups, as well as saturated alkyl groups, unless expressly stated otherwise. Preferred alkyl groups include, without limitation, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, tert-butyl, isobutyl, pentyl, hexyl, vinyl, allyl, isobutenyl, ethynyl, and propynyl. [0103] As employed herein, a “substituted” alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, or heterocyclic group is one having between one and about four, preferably between one and about three, more preferably one or two, non-hydrogen substituents. Suitable substituents include, without limitation, halo, hydroxy, nitro, haloalkyl, alkyl, alkaryl, aryl, aralkyl, alkoxy, aryloxy, amino, acylamino, alkylcarbamoyl, arylcarbamoyl, aminoalkyl, alkoxycarbonyl, carboxy, hydroxyalkyl, alkanesulfonyl, arenesulfonyl, alkanesulfonamido, arenesulfonamido, aralkylsulfonamido, alkylcarbonyl, acyloxy, cyano, and ureido groups. [0104] The term “cycloalkyl” as employed herein includes saturated and partially unsaturated cyclic hydrocarbon groups having 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8 carbons, wherein the cycloalkyl group additionally is optionally substituted. Preferred cycloalkyl groups include, without limitation, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclopentenyl, cyclohexyl, cyclohexenyl, cycloheptyl, cyclooctyl, and adamantyl. [0105] The term “hydrocarbyl” as employed herein includes all alkyl moieties and all cycloalkyl moieties (both as defined above), each alone or in combination. Thus, for example, hydrocarbyl includes methyl, ethyl, propyl, n-butyl, i-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclohexyl, cyclopropyl-CH 2 —, cyclohexyl-CH 2 ) 3 —, etc. [0106] An “aryl” group is a C 6 -C 14 aromatic moiety comprising one to three aromatic rings, which is optionally substituted. Preferably, the aryl group is a C 6 -C 10 aryl group. Preferred aryl groups include, without limitation, phenyl, naphthyl, anthracenyl, and fluorenyl. An “aralkyl” or “arylalkyl” group comprises an aryl group covalently linked to an alkyl group, either of which may independently be optionally substituted or unsubstituted. Preferably, the aralkyl group is C 1 -C 6 -alkyl-C 6 -C 10 )aryl, including, without limitation, benzyl, phenethyl, and naphthylmethyl. An “alkaryl” or “alkylaryl” group is an aryl group having one or more alkyl substituents. Examples of alkaryl groups include, without limitation, tolyl, xylyl, mesityl, ethylphenyl, tert-butylphenyl, and methylnaphthyl. [0107] A “heterocyclic” group (or “heterocyclyl”) is a non-aromatic mono-, bi-, or tricyclic structure having from about 3 to about 14 atoms, wherein one or more atoms are selected from the group consisting of N, O, and S. One ring of a bicyclic heterocycle or two rings of a tricyclic heterocycle may be aromatic, as in indan and 9,10-dihydro-anthracene. The heterocyclic group is optionally substituted on carbon with oxo or with one of the substituents listed above. The heterocyclic group may also independently be substituted on nitrogen with alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkylsulfonyl, arylcarbonyl, arylsulfonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aralkoxycarbonyl, or on sulfur with oxo or lower alkyl. Preferred heterocyclic groups include, without limitation, epoxy, aziridinyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, pyrrolidinyl, piperidinyl, piperazinyl, thiazolidinyl, oxazolidinyl, oxazolidinonyl, and morpholino. [0108] In certain preferred embodiments, the heterocyclic group is a heteroaryl group. As used herein, the term “heteroaryl” refers to groups having 5 to 14 ring atoms, preferably 5, 6, 9, or 10 ring atoms; having 6, 10, or 14 π electrons shared in a cyclic array; and having, in addition to carbon atoms, between one and about three heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of N, O, and S. Preferred heteroaryl groups include, without limitation, thienyl, benzothienyl, furyl, benzofuryl, dibenzofuryl, pyrrolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl, pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidinyl, indolyl, quinolyl, isoquinolyl, quinoxalinyl, tetrazolyl, oxazolyl, thiazolyl, and isoxazolyl. [0109] For simplicity, reference to a “C n -C m ” heterocyclyl or “C n -C m ” heteroaryl means a heterocyclyl or heteroaryl having from “n” to “m” annular atoms, where “n” and “m” are integers. Thus, for example, a C 5 -C 6 -heterocyclyl is a 5- or 6- membered ring having at least one heteroatom, and includes pyrrolidinyl (C 5 ) and piperidinyl (C 6 ); C 6 -hetoaryl includes, for example, pyridyl and pyrimidyl. [0110] In certain other preferred embodiments, the heterocyclic group is fused to an aryl or heteroaryl group. Examples of such fused heterocycles include, without limitation, tetrahydroquinolinyl and dihydrobenzofuranyl. [0111] Additional preferred heterocyclyls and heteroaryls include, but are not limited to, acridinyl, azocinyl, benzimidazolyl, benzofuranyl, benzothiofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, benzoxazolyl, benzthiazolyl, benztriazolyl, benztetrazolyl, benzisoxazolyl, benzisothiazolyl, benzimidazolinyl, carbazolyl, 4aH-carbazolyl, carbolinyl, chromanyl, chromenyl, cinnolinyl, decahydroquinolinyl, 2H,6H-1,5,2-dithiazinyl, dihydrofuro[2,3-b]tetrahydrofuran, furanyl, furazanyl, imidazolidinyl, imidazolinyl, 1H-indazolyl, indolenyl, indolinyl, indolizinyl, 3H-indolyl, isobenzofuranyl, isochromanyl, isoindazolyl, isoindolinyl, isoindolyl, isothiazolyl, methylenedioxyphenyl, morpholinyl, naphthyridinyl, octahydroisoquinolinyl, oxadiazolyl, 1,2,3-oxadiazolyl, 1,2,4-oxadiazolyl, 1,2,5-oxadiazolyl, 1,3,4-oxadiazolyl, oxazolidinyl, oxazolidinyl, pyrimidinyl, phenanthridinyl, phenanthrolinyl, phenazinyl, phenothiazinyl, phenoxathiinyl, phenoxazinyl, phthalazinyl, piperazinyl, piperidinyl, piperidonyl, 4-piperidonyl, piperonyl, pteridinyl, purinyl, pyranyl, pyrazolidinyl, pyrazolinyl, pyridazinyl, pyridooxazole, pyridoimidazole, pyridothiazole, pyridinyl, pyrrolidinyl, pyrrolinyl, 2H-pyrrolyl, quinazolinyl, 4H-quinolizinyl, quinuclidinyl, tetrahydroisoquinolinyl, 6H-1,2,5-thiadiazinyl, 1,2,3-thiadiazolyl, 1,2,4-thiadiazolyl, 1,2,5-thiadiazolyl, 1,3,4thiadiazolyl, thianthrenyl, thienyl, thienothiazolyl, thienooxazolyl, thienoimidazolyl, thiophenyl, triazinyl, 1,2,3-triazolyl, 1,2,4-triazolyl, 1,2,5-triazolyl, 1,3,4triazolyl, xanthenyl, cyclobutenyl and 1,3-dioxoisoindolyl. [0112] A moiety that is substituted is one in which one or more hydrogens have been independently replaced with another chemical substituent. As a non-limiting example, substituted phenyls include 2-fluorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl, 2-fluor-3-propylphenyl. As another non-limiting example, substituted n-octyls include 2,4 dimethyl-5-ethyl-octyl and 3-cyclopentyl-octyl. Included within this definition are methylenes (—CH 2 —) substituted with oxygen to form carbonyl —CO—). [0113] Unless otherwise stated, as employed herein, when a moiety (e.g., cycloalkyl, hydrocarbyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclic, urea, etc.) is described as “optionally substituted” it is meant that the group optionally has from one to four, preferably from one to three, more preferably one or two, non-hydrogen substituents. Suitable substituents include, without limitation, halo, hydroxy, oxo (e.g., an annular —CH— substituted with oxo is —C(O)—) nitro, halohydrocarbyl, hydrocarbyl, aryl, aralkyl, alkoxy, aryloxy, amino, acylamino, alkylcarbamoyl, arylcarbamoyl, aminoalkyl, acyl, carboxy, hydroxyalkyl, , alkanesulfonyl, arenesulfonyl, alkanesulfonamido, arenesulfonamido, aralkylsulfonamido, alkylcarbonyl, acyloxy, cyano, and ureido groups. Preferred substituents, which are themselves not further substituted (unless expressly stated otherwise) are: (a) halo, cyano, oxo, carboxy, formyl, nitro, amino, amidino, guanidino, (b) C 1 -C 5 alkyl or alkenyl or arylalkyl imino, carbamoyl, azido, carboxamido, mercapto, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, alkylaryl, arylalkyl, C 1 -C 8 alkyl, C 1 -C 8 alkenyl, C 1 -C 8 alkoxy, C 1 -C 8 alkoxycarbonyl, aryloxycarbonyl, C 2 -C 8 acyl, C 2 -C 8 acylamino, C 1 -C 8 alkylthio, arylalkylthio, arylthio, C 1 -C 8 alkylsulfinyl, arylalkylsulfinyl, arylsulfinyl, C 1 -C 8 alkylsulfonyl, arylalkylsulfonyl, arylsulfonyl, C 0 -C 6 N-alkyl carbamoyl, C 1 -C 15 N,N-dialkylcarbamoyl, C 3 -C 7 cycloalkyl, aroyl, aryloxy, arylalkyl ether, aryl, aryl fused to a cycloalkyl or heterocycle or another aryl ring, C 3 -C 7 heterocycle, C 5 -C 15 heteroaryl, or any of these rings fused or spiro-fused to a cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, or aryl, wherein each of the foregoing is further optionally substituted with one more moieties listed in (a), above; and (c) —CH 2 ) s —NR 30 R 31 wherein s is from 0 (in which case the nitrogen is directly bonded to the moiety that is substituted) to 6, and R 30 and R 31 are each independently hydrogen, cyano, oxo, carboxamido, amidino, C 1 -C 8 hydroxyalkyl, C 1 -C 3 alkylaryl, aryl-C 1 -C 3 alkyl, C 1 -C 8 alkyl, C 1 -C 8 alkenyl, C 1 -C 8 alkoxy, C 1 -C 8 alkoxycarbonyl, aryloxycarbonyl, aryl-C 1 -C 3 alkoxycarbonyl, C 2 -C 8 acyl, C 1 -C 8 alkylsulfonyl, arylalkylsulfonyl, arylsulfonyl, aroyl, aryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, or heteroaryl, wherein each of the foregoing is further optionally substituted with one more moieties listed in (a), above; or R 30 and R 31 taken together with the N to which they are attached form a heterocyclyl or heteroaryl, each of which is optionally substituted with from 1 to 3 substituents from (a), above. [0118] The term “halogen” or “halo” as employed herein refers to chlorine, bromine, fluorine, or iodine. [0119] As herein employed, the term “acyl” refers to an alkylcarbonyl or arylcarbonyl substituent. [0120] The term “acylamino” refers to an amide group attached at the nitrogen atom. The term “carbamoyl” refers to an amide group attached at the carbonyl carbon atom. The nitrogen atom of an acylamino or carbamoyl substituent may be additionally substituted. The term “sulfonamido” refers to a sulfonamide substituent attached by either the sulfur or the nitrogen atom. The term “amino” is meant to include NH 2 , alkylamino, arylamino, and cyclic amino groups. Pharmaceutical Compositions [0121] In a second aspect, the invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising an inhibitor of ubiquitination according to the invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient, or diluent. Compounds of the invention may be formulated by any method well known in the art and may be prepared for administration by any route, including, without limitation, parenteral, oral, sublingual, transdermal, topical, intranasal, intratracheal, or intrarectal. In certain preferred embodiments, compounds of the invention are administered intravenously in a hospital setting. In certain other preferred embodiments, administration may preferably be by the oral route. [0122] The characteristics of the carrier will depend on the route of administration. As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable” means a non-toxic material that is compatible with a biological system such as a cell, cell culture, tissue, or organism, and that does not interfere with the effectiveness of the biological activity of the active ingredient(s). Thus, pharmaceutical compositions according to the invention may contain, in addition to the inhibitor, diluents, fillers, salts, buffers, stabilizers, solubilizers, flavors, dyes and other materials well known in the art. The preparation of pharmaceutically acceptable formulations is described in many well known references to one skilled in the art, for example, Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th Edition, ed. A. Gennaro, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1990. [0123] As used herein, the term pharmaceutically acceptable salts refers to salts and complexes that retain the desired biological activity of the compounds of the invention and exhibit minimal or no undesired toxicological effects. Examples of such salts include, but are not limited to acid addition salts formed with inorganic acids (for example, hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, and the like), and salts formed with organic acids such as acetic acid, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, malic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, tannic acid, pamoic acid, alginic acid, polyglutamic acid, naphthalenesulfonic acid, naphthalenedisulfonic acid, and polygalacturonic acid. The compounds can also be administered as pharmaceutically acceptable quaternary salts known by those skilled in the art, which specifically include the quaternary ammonium salt of the formula —NR+Z-, wherein R is hydrogen, alkyl, or benzyl, and Z is a counterion, including chloride, bromide, iodide, —O-alkyl, toluenesulfonate, methylsulfonate, sulfonate, phosphate, or carboxylate (such as benzoate, succinate, acetate, glycolate, maleate, malate, citrate, tartrate, ascorbate, benzoate, cinnamoate, mandeloate, benzyloate, and diphenylacetate). Moreover, the compounds of the invention can also be administered as prodrugs which can be converted to the active form in vivo. [0124] The active compound is included in the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent in an amount sufficient to deliver to a patient a therapeutically effective amount without causing serious toxic effects in the patient treated. A preferred dose of the active compound for all of the above-mentioned conditions is in the range from about 0.01 to 500 mg/kg, preferably 0.1 to 100 mg/kg per day, more generally 0.5 to about 25 mg per kilogram body weight of the recipient per day. A typical topical dosage will range from 0.01-3% wt/wt in a suitable carrier. The effective dosage range of the pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives can be calculated based on the weight of the parent compound to be delivered. If the derivative exhibits activity in itself, the effective dosage can be estimated as above using the weight of the derivative, or by other means known to those skilled in the art. Inhibition of Ubiquitination [0125] In a third aspect, the invention provides a method of inhibiting ubiquitination in a cell, comprising contacting a cell in which inhibition of ubiquitination is desired with an inhibitor of ubiquitination of the invention. [0126] Measurement of the ubiquitination can be achieved using known methodologies. (See, for example, WO 01/75145, US-2002-0042083-A1 and WO 03/076608, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.) [0127] Preferably, the method according to the third aspect of the invention causes an inhibition of cell proliferation of contacted cells. The phrase “inhibiting cell proliferation” is used to denote an ability of an inhibitor of ubiquitination to retard the growth of cells contacted with the inhibitor as compared to cells not contacted. An assessment of cell proliferation can be made by counting contacted and non-contacted cells using a Coulter Cell Counter (Coulter, Miami, Fla.), photographic analysis with Array Scan II (Cellomics) or a hemacytometer. Where the cells are in a solid growth (e.g., a solid tumor or organ), such an assessment of cell proliferation can be made by measuring the growth with calipers and comparing the size of the growth of contacted cells with non-contacted cells. [0128] Preferably, growth of cells contacted with the inhibitor is retarded by at least 50% as compared to growth of non-contacted cells. More preferably, cell proliferation is inhibited by 100% (i.e., the contacted cells do not increase in number). Most preferably, the phrase “inhibiting cell proliferation” includes a reduction in the number or size of contacted cells, as compared to non-contacted cells. Thus, an inhibitor of ubiquitination according to the invention that inhibits cell proliferation in a contacted cell may induce the contacted cell to undergo growth retardation, to undergo growth arrest, to undergo programmed cell death (i.e., to apoptose), or to undergo necrotic cell death. [0129] In some preferred embodiments, the contacted cell is a neoplastic cell. The term “neoplastic cell” is used to denote a cell that shows aberrant cell growth. Preferably, the aberrant cell growth of a neoplastic cell is increased cell growth. A neoplastic cell may be a hyperplastic cell, a cell that shows a lack of contact inhibition of growth in vitro, a benign tumor cell that is incapable of metastasis in vivo, or a cancer cell that is capable of metastasis in vivo and that may recur after attempted removal. The term “tumorigenesis” is used to denote the induction of cell proliferation that leads to the development of a neoplastic growth. In some embodiments, the ubiquitination inhibitor induces cell differentiation in the contacted cell. Thus, a neoplastic cell, when contacted with an inhibitor of ubiquitination may be induced to differentiate, resulting in the production of a non-neoplastic daughter cell that is phylogenetically more advanced than the contacted cell. Treatment for Cell Proliferative Diseases or Conditions [0130] In some preferred embodiments, the contacted cell is in an animal. Thus, in a fourth aspect the invention provides a method for treating a cell proliferative disease or condition in an animal, comprising administering to an animal in need thereof an effective amount of an inhibitor of ubiquitination of the invention. Preferably, the animal is a mammal, more preferably a domesticated mammal. Most preferably, the animal is a human. [0131] The term “cell proliferative disease or condition” is meant to refer to any condition characterized by aberrant cell growth, preferably abnormally increased cellular proliferation. Examples of such cell proliferative diseases or conditions include, but are not limited to, cancer, restenosis, and psoriasis. In particularly preferred embodiments, the invention provides a method for inhibiting neoplastic cell proliferation in an animal comprising administering to an animal having at least one neoplastic cell present in its body a therapeutically effective amount of a ubiquitination inhibitor of the invention. Most preferrably, the invention provides a method for treating cancer comprising administering to a patient in need thereof an effective amount of an inhibitor of ubiquitination of the invention. [0132] The term “therapeutically effective amount” is meant to denote a dosage sufficient to cause inhibition of ubiquitination in the cells of the subject, or a dosage sufficient to inhibit cell proliferation or to induce cell differentiation in the subject. Administration may be by any route, including, without limitation, parenteral, oral, sublingual, transdermal, topical, intranasal, intratracheal, or intrarectal. In certain particularly preferred embodiments, compounds of the invention are administered intravenously in a hospital setting. In certain other preferred embodiments, administration may preferably be by the oral route. [0133] When administered systemically, the ubiquitination inhibitor is preferably administered at a sufficient dosage to attain a blood level of the inhibitor from about 0.01 μM to about 100 μM, more preferably from about 0.05 μM to about 50 μM, still more preferably from about 0.1 μM to about 25 μM, and still yet more preferably from about 0.5 μM to about 20 μM. For localized administration, much lower concentrations than this may be effective, and much higher concentrations may be tolerated. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the dosage of ubiquitination inhibitor necessary to produce a therapeutic effect may vary considerably depending on the tissue, organ, or the particular animal or patient to be treated. Treatment of HIV and Related Conditions [0134] In some preferred embodiments, the contacted cell is a cell infected with HIV in a patient. Thus, in a fifth aspect, the invention provides a method for treating HIV infection as well as conditions related to HIV in a patient, comprising administering to a patient in need thereof an effective amount of an inhibitor of ubiquitination of the invention. The preparation, dosage and administration of the inhibitors of ubiquitination of the invention for the treatment of HIV and related conditions can be carried out as described above. [0135] The inhibitors of ubiquitination of the invention are useful for the treatment of HIV infection and related conditions because they can inhibit the replication and spread of HIV. The replication and spread of HIV is decreased by the enzyme APOBEC 3 G, which acts by causing extensive mutations in the cDNA reverse transcribed from the HIV genomic RNA. This has the effect of terminating the life cycle of HIV. To counteract this effect of APOBEC 3 G, HIV encodes the protein Vif that functions by decreasing the translation of APOBEC 3 G and increasing the post-translational degradation of APOBEC 3 G. The post-translational degradation of APOBEC 3 G is catalyzed by the 26S proteasome and depends on the polyubiquitination of APOBEC 3 G. Polyubiquitination serves as a signal for the 26S proteasome to degrade APOBEC 3 G. Thus, inhibitors of ubiquination of the invention can inhibit the function of the 26S proteasome by prevent the targeting of APOBEC 3 G to the 26S proteasome so that the intracellular concentration of APOBEC 3 G is increased. This increased concentration of APOBEC 3 G in turn inhibits the replication and spread of HIV by diminishing the effect of Vif. The role of APOBEC 3 G in decreasing HIV replication and spread as well as methods for measuring the activity of the 26S proteasome, APOBEC 3 G and Vif are described in Stopak et al., “HIV-1 Vif Blocks the Antiviral Activity of APOBEC 3 G by Impairing Both Its Translation and Intracellular Stability,” Mol. Cell (2003), 12:pp 591-601, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. [0136] The following examples are intended to further illustrate certain preferred embodiments of the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Biological Activity [0137] Biological assays for determining the transfer of ubiquitin from the E1 activating agent to the E2 conjugating agent are described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 09/542,497 and 09/826,312 as well as in the PCT Application WO 01/75145, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. The following assay example illustrates one way by which the ubiquitin ligase inhibitory activity of the compounds of the invention can be assayed. This assay example is not meant to limit in any way the use of the compounds of the invention as ubiquitin ligase inhibitors. ASSAY EXAMPLE 1 E1 to E2 Transfer Assay [0138] The attachment of a ubiquitin moiety to the E2 conjugating agent was assayed using Flag-ubiquitin that was purified from E. coli, E2 Ubch10 that was purified as a His-Ubch10 from E. coli, and E1 that was purified from Sf9 insect cells (Affiniti Research Products, Exeter, U.K.). The wells of a Nickel-substrate 96-well plate (Pierce Chemical) were blocked with 100 μl of 1% casein/phosphate buffered saline (PBS) for 1 hour at room temperature. The blocked Nickel-substrate plate was then washed three times with 200 μl of PBST (0.1% Tween-20 in PBS). Subsequently, Flag-ubiquitin reaction solution was added to each well so that the final concentration was 62.5 mM Tris pH 7.5, 6.25 mg MgCl 2 , 0.75 mM DTT, 1.0 μM ATP (low ATP), and 100 ng Flag-ubiquitin. The final reaction solution volume was fixed to 80 μl with with Milipore-filtered water. To this was added the folowing: a ubiquitin agent inhibitor in 10 μl of DMSO, 10 μl of E1 and His-E2 Ubch10 in 20 mM Tris buffer, pH 7.5, and 5% glycerol so that there was 10 ng/well of E1 and 20 ng/well of His-E2 Ubch10. The reaction was then allowed to proceed at room temperature for 1 hour. [0139] After 1 hour, the wells were washed three times with 200 μl of PBST and the amount of E2-ubiquitin complex was measured. For measuring the amount of the E2-ubiquitin complex, 100 μl of Mouse anti-flag diluted 1:10, 000 (Sigma Aldrich Fluka Chemicals, St. Louis, Mo.) and anti-mouse HRP diluted 1:15,000 (Jackson Immunoresearch labs, West Grove, Pa.) in PBST were added to each well and allowed to incubate at room temperature for another hour. The wells were then washed three times with 200 μl of PBST and 100 μl of luminol substrate (⅕ dilution) was added. The luminescence of each well was then measured using a fluorimeter to calculate the amount of E2-ubiquitin complex. This procedure was repeated using His-E2 Ubch5C instead of His-E2 Ubch10. [0140] The table below illustrates the inhibitory properties of the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention comprising the compounds listed in the table using the assays described above. Inhibition was measured using IC50 values. TABLE 3 Compound LIGASE_E2-UBCH10 LIGASE_E2-UBCH5C 1 −+ −+ 3 ++ ++ 4 ++ ++ 5 ++ ++ ++ indicates high inhibition; −+ indicates marginal inhibition ASSAY EXAMPLE 2 ATP Competitive Assay [0141] The procedure for carrying out the ATP competitive binding assay was essentially the same as that for the plate binding assay described above with the exceptaion that the concentration of ATP was 200 μM ATP (high ATP). [0142] The table below illustrates the ATP competitive inhibition properties of the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention comprising the compounds listed in the table using the ATP competitive assay described above. Inhibition was measured using IC50 values. TABLE 4 UBC10 UBC10 Compound 1 μM ATP 200 μM ATP Results 3 ++ − ATP competitve 4 ++ − ATP competitve 5 ++ − ATP competitve 14 ++ − ATP competitve ++ indicates high inhibition; −+ indicates marginal inhibition [0143] Table 5 also shows ATP inhibition properties for additional compounds described herein. Inhibition was measured using IC50 values. TABLE 5 Cmpd UBC10 15 ++ 16 ++ 17 ++ 18 −− 19 ++ 20 −− 21 ++ 22 ++ 23 −− 24 ++ 25 −− 26 ++ 27 ++ 28 ++ 29 ++ 30 ++ 31 ++ 32 ++ 33 ++ 34 ++ 35 −− 36 ++ 37 −− 38 ++ 39 ++ 40 ++ 41 ++ 42 ++ 43 −− 44 −− 45 ++ 46 ++ 47 −− 48 ++ 49 ++ 50 −− 51 ++ 52 −− 53 ++ 54 −− 55 −− 56 ++ 57 ++ 58 ++ 59 ++ 60 ++ 61 −− 62 −− 63 −− 64 −− 65 −− 66 −− 67 −− 68 −− 69 −− 70 −− 71 −− 72 −− 73 −− 74 −− 75 −− 76 −− 77 ++ 78 −− 79 ++ 80 −− 81 ++ 82 ++ 83 −− 84 ++ 85 ++ 86 −− 87 ++ 88 −− 89 −− 90 ++ 91 −− 92 −− 93 −− 94 −− 95 ++ 96 ++ 97 ++ 98 −− 99 −− 100 ++ 101 ++ 103 ++ 104 −− 109 −− 113 120 ++ 124 −− 126 −− 132 −− 136 −− 137 −− 138 ++ 139 −− 140 −− 141 ++ 142 ++ 144 −− 145 −− 146 ++ 147 −− 148 −− 149 ++ 150 ++ 151 ++ 152 ++ 153 ++ 154 ++ 155 ++ 156 −− 159 ++ 164 −− 168 −− 169 −− 170 −− 172 −− 174 −− 176 −− 181 −− 186 −− 189 −− 194 −− 195 ++ 205 −− 208 −− 222 −− 223 −− 224 −− 225 −− ++ indicates inhibition at 50 μM or or less; −− indicates marginal or no inhibition detected with this assay General Synthetic Procedure [0144] The compounds of the invention can be prepared using general synthetic procedures. The starting components are readily prepared from benzene and phenols to which any kind of substitutions can be made according to procedures well known to those skilled in the art and commercially available. Many of the compounds are available commercially. [0145] The compounds of the invention can be prepared according to Scheme 1. The amine 1a is reacted with the acyl chloride 2a to produce the 2-substituted benzothiazole 3a. One skilled in the art would recognize that to obtain compounds with a variety of groups attached at the 2-position of the benzothiazole, the benzoyl chloride 2a can be replaced with any suitable acyl chloride. Similarly, replacing the amine 1a with any suitable amine, for example, 2-amino-indole or 2-aminobenzoimidazole, the corresponding 2-substituted indole or 2-substituted benzoimidazole can be obtained. Scheme 1 is only one way to prepare the compounds of the invention and is not meant to be limiting in any way. CHEMISTRY EXAMPLES N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)thiophene-2-carboxamide [0146] A solution of 2-Amino-5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridine (45 mg, 0.25 mmol) and 2-thiophenecarbonyl chloride (53 mL, 0.50 mmol) in pyridine was heated at 100 C overnight. The reaction mixture was cooled, diluted with ethyl acetate and rinsed with brine. The solution was dried over MgSO 4 , eluted through a small silica column (1:1 ethyl acetate:hexanes), and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by preparative HPLC. [0147] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.27 (br d, J=3.3 Hz, 1H), 8.04 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.99 (dd, J=1.2, 12.3 Hz, 1H), 7.26 (dd, J=3.6, 4.8 Hz, 1H), 6.92 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.91 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 292 (MH + ). 2,4-dichloro-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0148] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.07 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.79 (m, 1H), 7.72 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 7.57 (dd, J=2.1, 8.4 Hz, 1H), 6.93 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.93 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 354 (MH + ). 3-fluoro-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0149] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.07 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.97-7.91 (m, 2H), 7.65-7.47 (m, 2H), 6.93 (d, J=4.8 Hz, 1H), 3.93 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 304 (MH + ). 3-chloro-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0150] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.16 (m, 1H), 8.08-8.03 (m., 2H), 7.71 (br d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.57 (t, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 6.92 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 3.92 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 320 (MH + ). N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)-3-methylthiophene-2-carboxamide [0151] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 7.98 (br d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.76 (d, J=4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.06 (d, J=4.8 Hz, 1H), 6.91 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.91 (s, 3H), 2.52 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 306 (MH + ). 3-chloro-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)thiophene-2-carboxamide [0152] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 7.97 (br d, J=5.1 Hz, 2H), 7.24 (d, J=5.1 Hz, 1H), 6.93 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.92 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 326 (MH + ). 2,6-difluoro-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0153] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.08 (d, J=9 Hz, 1H), 7.69-7.59 (m, 1H), 7.27 (t, J=8.4 Hz, 2H), 6.94 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 3.93 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 322 (MH + ). 3,4-difluoro-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0154] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.22-8.15 (m, 1H), 8.06 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 8.02-7.98 (m, 1H), 7.68-7.59 (m, 1H), 6.93 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 3.92 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 322 (MH + ). N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzamide [0155] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.27 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 2H), 8.07 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.92 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 2H), 6.94 (d, J=9 Hz, 1H), 3.93 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 354 (MH + ). 4-cyano-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0156] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.22 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 2H), 8.08 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 8.04 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 6.94 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.93 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 311 (MH + ). 4-acetamido-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0157] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 10.27 (s, 1H), 8.06 (t, J=8.7 Hz, 3H), 7.72 (d, J=9 Hz, 2H), 6.91 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.92 (s, 3H), 2.09 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 343 (MH + ). N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)-4-nitrobenzamide [0158] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.38-8.29 (m, 4H), 8.08 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 6.95 (d, J=9.6 Hz), 3.94 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 331 (MH + ). 4-methoxy-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0159] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.11 (d, J=9 Hz, 2H), 8.04 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 7.08 (d, J=9.3 Hz, 2H), 6.91 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.92 (s, 3H), 3.85 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 316 (MH + ). N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)furan-2-carboxamide [0160] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.05-8.02 (m, 2H), 7.70 (d, J=3.6 Hz, 1H), 6.91 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 6.75-6.74 (m, 1H), 3.91 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 276 (MH + ). 4-fluoro-N-(5-methoxythiazolo[5,4-b]pyridin-2-yl)benzamide [0161] 1 H NMR (DMSO-d 6 , 300 MHz) δ 8.20-8.16 (m, 2H), 8.05 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.39 (t, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 6.92 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 1H), 3.92 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 304 (MH + ). N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-1H-indole-2-carboxamide [0162] [0163] Compound A. A solution of 2-amino-6-methoxybenzothiazole (100 mg, 0.6 mmol), 1-[(tert-butyl)oxycarbonyl]-(±)-indoline-2-carboxylic acid (237 mg, 0.9 mmol), bromo-tris-pyrrolidino-phosphonium hexafluorophosphate (468 mg, 0.9 mmol), and N,N-diisopropylethylamine (300 μL, 1.8 mmol) was prepared at room temperature and allowed to stir over night. The reaction mixture was diluted with CH 2 Cl 2 , and rinsed with saturated citric acid, and brine. The organic fraction was dried over MgSO 4 , filtered, and concentrated. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (1:4 to 1:1 ethyl acetate:hexanes) to afford product (A) as a white solid (210 mg, 82%) which was pure by LCMS analysis. [0164] LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 426 (MH + ), 326 (MH + -BOC) [0165] A sample of A (100 mg, 0.235 mmol) was treated with a solution of trifluoroacetic acid (3 mL), CH 2 Cl 2 (300 uL), and H 2 O (100 uL) at room temperature for 5 hours. The reaction mixture was concentrated in vacuo and used for the next step without purification. The crude reaction mixture was dissolved in 1,4-dioxane (3 mL) and allowed to stir at 60 C for 4 days. The reaction mixture was concentrated in vacuo and the residue purified by silica gel chromatography (1:4 to 1:2 ethyl acetate:hexanes) to afford N-(6-methoxybenzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-1H-indole-2-carboxamide as a light yellow solid (51 mg, 67% yield). [0166] 1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , 300 MHz) δ 11.91 (br s, 1H), 7.68-7.67 (m, 2H), 7.65(d, J=3 Hz, 1H), 7.60 (d, J=2.7 Hz, 1H), 7.46 (d, J=8 Hz, 1H), 7.25 (t, J=6.9 Hz, 1H), 7.09-7.02 (m, 2H), 3.81 (s, 3H). LCMS purity 100%. MS Found 324 (MH + ). [0167] The invention has been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention.
This invention describes compounds and pharmaceutical compositions useful as ubiquitin agent inhibitors. The compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of the invention are useful as inhibitors of the biochemical pathways of organisms in which ubiquitination is involved. The invention also comprises the use of the compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of the invention for the treatment of conditions that require inhibition of ubiquitination. Furthermore, the invention comprises methods of inhibiting ubiquitination in a cell comprising contacting a cell in which inhibition of ubiquitination is desired with a pharmaceutical composition according to the invention.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/120,528, entitled “Shaped Charge Casing Cutter,” filed May 29, 2014. STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT Not Applicable FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to shaped charge tools for explosively severing tubular goods including, but not limited to, pipe, tube, casing and/or casing liner. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The capacity to quickly, reliably and cleanly sever a pipe or well casing deeply within a wellbore is an essential maintenance and salvage operation in the petroleum drilling and exploration industry. Cutting large, 7 inch to 20 inch nominal diameter casing and casing liner is particularly challenging. Generally, the industry relies upon mechanical, chemical or pyrotechnic devices for such cutting. Among the available options, shaped charge (SC) explosive cutters are often the simplest, fastest and least expensive tools for cutting pipe in a well. The devices are typically conveyed into a well for detonation on a wireline or length of coiled tubing. Typical explosive pipe cutting devices comprise a consolidated wheel of explosive material having a V-groove perimeter similar to a V-belt drive sheave. The surfaces of the circular V-groove are clad with a thin metal liner. Pressed contiguously against the metal liner is a highly explosive material such as HMX, RDX or HNS. This V-grooved wheel of shaped explosive is aligned coaxially within a housing sub and the sub is disposed internally of the pipe that is to be cut. Accordingly, the plane that includes the circular perimeter of the V-groove apex is substantially perpendicular to the pipe axis. Upon ignition of the explosive, the explosion shock wave reflects off the opposing V surfaces of the grooved wheel to focus onto the respective metal liners. The opposing liners are driven together into a collision that produces a fluidized mass of liner material. Under the propellant influence of the high impingement pressure, this fluidized mass of liner material flows lineally and radially along the apex plane at velocities in the order of 22,000 ft/sec, for example. Resultant impingement pressures against the surrounding pipe wall may be as high as 6 to 7×10 6 psi thereby locally fluidizing the pipe wall material. This principle may be applied to large diameter pipe such as well casing which may be cut while positioned within a wellbore with a toroidal circle of explosive having an outside face formed in the signatory V-groove cross-section. This toroidal circle of explosive is placed and detonated within a toroidal cavity of a housing. However, formation of an explosive torroid of sufficient size to sever a large diameter casing requires relatively large quantities of explosive. As an integral unit, such quantities of explosive exceed prudent transportation limitations. For practical reasons of transport and safety, therefore, the mass of the toroidal explosive circle is divided into multiple, small quantity modules of cross-sectional increments which are transported to a well site in separate, isolated packages. Explosively cutting a 20 inch casing may require a shaped charge of as much as 1000 gms. (35.27 ounces) of high explosive (ex. HMX). However, international standards of transportation safety (United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Edition 17, Vol. I, Chapter 2.1, Division 1.4) limit the public transport of a single unit of hazard class or high explosive to 45 gm (1.59 ounces). Consequently, to transport a shaped charge cutter of size sufficient to cut a 20 inch casing, it is essential for the explosive elements of the cutter to be designed for shipment as a multiplicity of small, less than 38 gm./unit, modules configured for operational assembly at the point of use. Unfortunately, the environmental circumstances of a drilling rig floor, which is where final cutter assembly must occur, are often severe and usually not conducive to the attentive care required for final assembly of a high explosive tool. Hence, there are strong incentives to design the individual explosive modules with the greatest degree of assembly ease and tolerance. But large module assembly tolerance often results in collective space between modules. In the case of modular assembly for shaped charges, such assembly space can severely diminish the cutter capability. Other issues for large diameter casing cutters arise with deep wells under considerable hydrostatic pressure. Large surface areas for prior art casing cutter housings may be distorted under deep well fluid pressure, also resulting in reduced cutting capacity or a malfunction of the tool. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present casing cutter invention comprises several design and fabrication advantages including a substantially solid structural interior that is substantially impervious to high well pressure. Shaped charge explosive material is distributed in modules around the full circle of an approximate toroidal cavity that is held open against well pressure by a full-circle belting structure. Preferably, the modules are further divided into smaller units corresponding to upper and lower half sections of the approximate toroid. The shaped charge metal liner is independently fabricated as a pair of matching cone frustums. Collective tolerance space between the modules and modular units of explosive material is closed around the toroid circumference by paper card stock shims between adjacent explosive modules. The back-side surfaces of the shaped charge assembly may be resiliently biased into intimate contact against the liner cone surfaces by an O-ring spring bearing upon the explosive module back-sides. A gap between the adjacent apex surfaces of the modules accommodates module fabrication tolerances. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is hereafter described in detail and with reference to the drawings wherein like reference characters designate like or similar elements throughout the several figures and views that collectively comprise the drawings. Respective to each drawing figure: FIG. 1 is a cross-section of a preferred embodiment of the invention in assembly with the housing, centralizer and top sub. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the initiation spool. FIG. 3 is an elevation view of the initiation spool. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the explosive assembly. FIG. 5 is a plan view of an individual explosive unit. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of an individual explosive unit. FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of an individual explosive unit. FIG. 8 is a pictorial view of the metallic liners. FIG. 9 is a plan view of an alternate initiation spool. FIG. 10 is a cross-section of the invention provided with buffer chambers and an alternate detonation configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION As used herein, the terms “up” and “down”, “upper” and “lower”, “upwardly” and downwardly”, “upstream” and “downstream”; “above” and “below”; and other like terms indicating relative positions above or below a given point or element are used in this description to more clearly describe some embodiments of the invention. However, when applied to equipment and methods for use in wells that are deviated or horizontal, such terms may refer to a left to right, right to left, or other relationship as appropriate. Moreover, in the specification and appended claims, the terms “pipe”, “tube”, “tubular”, “casing”, “liner” and/or “other tubular goods” are to be interpreted and defined generically to mean any and all of such elements without limitation of industry usage. Referring to FIG. 1 , a top sub 10 is formed with an axial cavity 12 for receipt of a detonator sub-assembly not shown. Internal threads 14 proximate of the sub body upper end provide a convenient mechanism for securing the top sub 10 to a tubing string, for example. External threads 16 , as shown in FIGS. 1 and 10 , at the lower end of the top sub 10 secure the top sub to the upper housing plate 22 of the shaped charge housing 20 . The shaped charge housing 20 assembly basically comprises four major components. Upper and lower housing plates 22 and 24 are separated by initiation spool 26 . The housing plates and initiation spool are all of substantially circular perimeter. The upper and lower housing plates 22 and 24 are secured into a belting ring 28 with a plurality of threaded fasteners 29 . Notably, the belting ring fit with the housing plate perimeters is designed to oppose distortions and closure of the toroidal cavity 21 between the plate perimeters due to high external fluid pressure. O-ring seals 25 environmentally secure the toroidal cavity 21 around the housing perimeter inside of the belting ring. The belting ring outside diameter is only slightly less than the inside diameter of the casing that is to be severed. Centering springs 27 may be secured to the housing to project radially outward by a predetermined distance determined by the internal diameter of the casing to be severed. The belting ring 28 thickness is notched about its internal perimeter to provide a narrow penetration band 23 in the radial expansion plane of the shaped charge cutting jet. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the initiation spool 26 may be a substantially solid disc having parallel face planes and at least one transverse detonator cord boring 30 between the face planes that is intersected at the disc center by a detonator aperture 32 . The perimeter of the disc is channeled by a detonator cord confining groove 34 . Preferably, the transverse detonator cord 36 is continuous between opposite outer perimeters of the initiation spool 26 for termination at close adjacency against adjacent detonator cord in the confining groove 34 , while confining groove 34 is in close adjacency against explosive units 54 . The two arcuate cord portions 38 that form a detonating circle have respective opposite distal ends that terminate against side elements of the transverse cord. With further reference to FIG. 1 , the upper and lower housing plates 22 and 24 are formed to substantially the same profile. In an embodiment, the annular edges 40 and 41 of the respective housing plates 22 and 24 are substantially concentric with corresponding center sections 42 and 44 . The annular edge 40 of the upper plate 22 is in parallel alignment with the plane of the circular plate center section 42 . As a mirror reflection, the annular edge 41 of the lower housing plate 24 is in parallel with the plane of the circular plate center section 44 . An approximately toroidal cavity 21 is formed within the interior surfaces of the plate rims and the belting ring to confine a circular assembly of explosive modules 50 . Each module 50 is a radial increment of a shaped charge circle. The plan view of FIG. 4 illustrates the circular alignment of the modules 50 with juxtaposed radial joint planes 52 . Each module 50 comprises a matching pair of explosive units 54 , with no unit exceeding 45 gms. of explosive, for example. The three orthographic views of FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 show a single unit 54 having a body 56 of compressed, high explosive material. As the individual units are positioned against a respective housing plate interior surface 49 in the circle illustrated by FIG. 4 , it will be understood that each unit must be formed to a small undersize tolerance for assembly convenience. When all of the units are positioned and pressed together, collectively, this necessary tolerance is accumulated as an intolerable space between the first and last units that may be 0.254 mm (0.010 inches) or more. Leaving such a space may severely influence the shaped charge performance. An unfilled inter-unit space of 1.588 mm (0.0625 inches) has been measured to reduce cutting penetration by half. Of course, this space may be packed with loose explosive but such a solution is not only time consuming but hazardous. Filling the spaces with metallic shims has also been found to be unsatisfactory. Cutting performance is nevertheless reduced. Surprisingly, it has been found that the spaces may be filled with “card stock” paper shims 53 without measurable loss of cutting penetration. Typical specifications for card stock paper include a paper sheet that is calendared to an approximate density range of 135 to 300 g/m 2 (3.982 oz./yd. to 8.848 oz./yd.) and thickness range of 0.254 mm to 0.381 mm (0.01 in. to 0.015 in). In practice, the card stock shim is cut into the section shape of an explosive unit as shown by FIG. 7 and inserted in the space between adjacent explosive units 54 . Preferably, only one card stock shim is positioned between an adjacent pair of explosive units 54 . Collective spaces greater than a single card stock thickness may be closed by inserts between multiple pairs of explosive units and/or modules. It has long been believed that intimate contact of the shaped charge explosive material with the interior surface 49 of the housing structure enhanced the cutting energy release. U.S. Pat. No. 6,505,559 to J. Joslin et al. assumed this relationship by their disclosed use of “glue” to secure segmented explosive units to a backing plate. However, when practiced in the environment of a drilling rig floor, the difficulties of gluing explosive units in place are numerous. Moreover, Applicants have discovered the intimate relationship to be less critical than originally believed. Of far greater importance is the intimate relationship of the explosive with the contiguous liner. In the prior art fabrication process, the independently formed metallic liner is placed in a molding receptacle and powdered explosive distributed over the liner. Subsequently, a forming die is forced against the powdered explosive to compact it against the liner surface and adhere it intimately thereto. The present invention procedure calls for a partial assembly of the shaped charge housing 20 by attaching the belting ring 28 to the lower housing plate 24 by means of fasteners 29 . Additionally, the initiation spool 26 is centered upon the lower plate center section 44 . This provides an open but walled circular channel within the belting ring interior perimeter. Within this circular channel, the appropriate number of explosive units 54 are positioned with the outer end face 55 of each explosive unit placed contiguously against the inner face 60 of the belting ring 28 while the inner end face of the explosive units 54 is positioned adjacent to the center section 44 outer perimeter. The outer face 58 of each explosive unit 54 is supported by two or more O-rings 46 , 48 . Contiguous continuity between the several units 54 about the module 50 circle is completed by inserting a required number of shims 53 between one or more pairs of units 54 . Upon this assembly of explosive units 54 , the conical frustum 57 of a first liner half is placed against the inner face 59 of the explosive units. Alignment of the upper half of the cutter ring onto the previously assembled lower half begins with positioning the minor diameter edge 62 of the upper frustum 57 against the minor diameter edge 62 of the lower frustum 57 . See FIG. 8 . If correctly dimensioned, the major diameter edge 63 of the upper frustum will be contiguously confined against the upper inside face 60 of the belting ring 28 . The upper layer of explosive units 54 are placed upon the upper liner frustum with contiguous fits against the belting ring and initiation spool 26 outer perimeter. A sufficient number of shims 53 are positioned between adjacent pairs of explosive units 54 to complete the contiguous continuity. When the shaped charge housing assembly 20 is completed by securing the upper housing plate 22 to the belting ring 28 , the upper and lower plate O-rings 46 , 48 exert a mutually opposed bias upon the explosive units 54 and the respective frustums 57 . It is important to note that the explosive unit 54 dimensions described above provide an open space 65 between the proximate explosive units 54 to accommodate other dimensional tolerance variations. In view of the tightly confined environment of Applicant's explosive cutter assembly and the consequential fluctuations of manufacturing tolerances, a free movement space for the units 54 is essential to assure intimate contact with the liner frustums 57 . Although paper shims 53 successfully fill the circumferential tolerance space between adjacent explosive units 54 , it is the resilient bias of the O-rings 46 that press the units 54 into necessary intimate contact with the liner material 57 . FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the invention ignition system in which two concentric layers of HMX comprising a center pellet 31 and an outer initiation pellet 37 are separated by a single initiation spool 33 . In an embodiment, center pellet 31 is a single piece while outer initiation pellet 37 comprises a plurality of increments 39 , none of which exceed regulatory and safety limits. In the depicted figure, the outer initiation pellet 37 is divided into six increments 39 , although it can be appreciated that the segmentation can be greater or lesser depending on the shockwave profile and the regulatory transport requirements. Initiation spool 33 comprises a plurality of grooves 35 which focus and amplify the shock wave created by center pellet 31 , allowing the invention to achieve higher working pressures and lessening the amount of explosive required to achieve equal detonation output to a solid explosive spool. As with the outer initiation pellet 37 , while initiation spool 33 is depicted as having eight grooves 35 , the configuration may vary. FIG. 10 illustrates the above configuration in cross-section, showing center pellet 31 , initiation spool 33 , and outer pellet 37 within boring 30 created between the face planes of housing plates 22 , 24 . As a further invention enhancement, FIG. 10 illustrates the invention housing as including buffer chambers 74 and 76 within annular channels 75 and 77 . O-rings 80 seal the respective chamber volumes from the downhole fluid environment. The function of these annular channels 75 and 77 and buffer chambers 74 and 76 is to absorb and suppress energy reflections from the housing plates 22 and 24 . Unbuffered, such reflected energy tends to disrupt the planar uniformity of the cutting disc as it erupts from the liner apex. A disturbed cutting disc results in a flared wall cut and an enlarged perimeter of “flash” on the pipe wall about the cutting plane. In can of course be appreciated that while these two improvements are illustrated together in FIG. 10 , these buffer chambers could be used independently of the concentric nested ignition configuration of FIG. 9 , and vice versa. While a preferred embodiment of our invention has been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the foregoing specification, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that additional embodiments, modifications and alterations may be constructed from the invention principles disclosed herein. These various embodiments have been described herein with respect to cutting a “pipe.” Clearly, other embodiments of the cutter of the present invention may be employed for cutting any tubular good including, but not limited to, pipe, tubing, production/casing liner and/or casing. Accordingly, use of the term “tubular” in the following claims is defined to include and encompass all forms of pipe, tube, tubing, casing, liner, and similar mechanical elements.
A shaped charge casing cutter is constructed with the cutter explosive formed into radial section modules aligned in a toroidal cavity between a pair of housing plates. The center sections of the housing plates are contiguously aligned with opposite parallel surfaces of a center disc. The housing plates comprise annular edges or rims, and the rims can be offset from respective center disc planes in opposite directions from each other to form a toroidal cavity. The toroidal cavity is enclosed by a circumferential belt secured to said housing plate rims. V-grooved shaped charge explosive in the form of multiple pi sections is distributed about the cavity to intimately contact a pair of frusto-conical liners. Assembly tolerance space between the pi sections is filled by dense paper card stock.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of arylethanoldiamine derivatives. Compounds of this type are known to be useful as agonists at a typical beta-adrenoceptors (also known as beta-3-adrenoceptors). BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] A typical beta-adrenoceptors are known to occur in adipose tissue and the gastrointestinal tract. A typical beta-adrenoceptor agonists have been found to be particularly useful as thermogenic anti-obesity agents and as anti-diabetic agents. Compounds having a typical beta-adrenoceptor agonist activity have also been described as being useful in the treatment of hyperglycaemia, as animal growth promoters, as blood platelet aggregation inhibitors, as positive inotropic agents and as antiatherosclerotic agents, and as being useful in the treatment of glaucoma. [0003] Compounds which are agonists at a typical beta-adrenoceptors are described, for example, in WO 97/21665, WO 97/21666, WO 98/43953, WO 99/65877, WO 95/33724, EP 0455006 and EP 0543662. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0004] The present inventors have found an improved process for preparing arylethanoldiamine derivatives. The process of the present invention offers the advantage of achieving higher yields than previous processes: the process is shorter involving fewer steps, the reactions are more selective, e.g. the regioselectivity of epoxide opening is highly selective. The process of the present invention also offers an environmental advantage in that the quantities of toxic byproducts and solvents are reduced. The use of boron containing reagents is also no longer required. [0005] Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention provides a process for the preparation of a compound of Formula (IA) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof: [0006] wherein: [0007] R 1 represents an aryl, phenoxymethyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, each of which is optionally substituted by one or more substituents selected from: halogen, C 1-6 alkoxy, C 1-6 alkyl, nitro, cyano, trifluoromethyl, —NR 8 R 9 and —NHSO 2 R 8 ; [0008] R 2 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0009] R 3 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0010] X 1 and X 2 independently represent (a) hydrogen, (b) C 1-6 alkylCO, or (c) an aryl CO group optionally substituted by halogen or a C 1-6 alkyl group, with the proviso that when one is (b) or (c) the other is hydrogen (a); [0011] R 4 represents (a) phenyl substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, —CO 2 H and —CO 2 R 8 , or (b) phenoxymethyl or a 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, —CO 2 H, —CO 2 R 8 , CN, NO 2 , hydroxymethyl and —CONHR 8 , [0012] or (c) a group (W): [0013] wherein A represents an aryl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group; R 5 represents cyano, tetrazol-5-yl, —CO 2 H or —CO 2 R 8 ; R 6 and R 7 independently represent hydrogen, C 1-6 alkyl, —CO 2 H, —CO 2 R 8 , cyano, tetrazol-5-yl, halogen, trifluoromethyl or C 1-6 alkoxy, or when R 6 and R 7 are bonded to adjacent carbon atoms, R 6 and R 7 may, together with the carbon atoms to which they are bonded, form a fused 5- or 6-membered ring optionally containing one or two nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur atoms; each R 12 independently represents substituents selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl and C 1-6 alkoxy, and n represents an integer from 0-4; and [0014] R 8 and R 9 independently represent C 1-6 alkyl; [0015] comprising the step of preparing a compound of Formula (IB) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof: [0016] wherein: [0017] R 1 represents an aryl, phenoxymethyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, each of which is optionally substituted by one or more substituents selected from: halogen, C 1-6 alkoxy, C 1-6 alkyl, nitro, cyano, trifluoromethyl, —NR 8 R 9 and —NHSO 2 R 8 ; [0018] R 2 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0019] R 3 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0020] R 4 represents (a) phenyl substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy and —CO 2 R 8 , or (b) phenoxymethyl or a 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, —CO 2 R 8 , CN, NO 2 , hydroxymethyl and —CONHR 8 , [0021] or (c) a group (W): [0022] wherein A represents an aryl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group; R 5 represents cyano, tetrazol-5-yl or —CO 2 R 8 ; R 6 and R 7 independently represent hydrogen, C 1-6 alkyl, —CO 2 R 8 , cyano, tetrazol-5-yl, halogen, trifluoromethyl or C 1-6 alkoxy, or when R 6 and R 7 are bonded to adjacent carbon atoms, R 6 and R 7 may, together with the carbon atoms to which they are bonded, form a fused 5- or 6-membered ring optionally containing one or two nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur atoms; each R 12 independently represents substituents selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl and C 1-6 alkoxy, and n represents an integer from 0-4; [0023] R 8 and R 9 independently represent C 1-6 alkyl; and [0024] R 11 represents C 1-6 alkyl or aryl optionally substituted by C 1-6 alkyl or halogen. [0025] In an alternative aspect, the invention provides a process for the preparation of a compound of Formula (IA) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof [0026] wherein: [0027] R 1 represents an aryl, phenoxymethyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, each of which is optionally substituted by one or more substituents selected from: halogen, C 1-6 alkoxy, C 1-6 alkyl, nitro, cyano, trifluoromethyl, —NR 8 R 9 and —NHSO 2 R 8 ; [0028] R 2 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0029] R 3 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0030] X 1 and X 2 independently represent (a) hydrogen, (b) C 1-6 alkylCO, or (c) an aryl CO group optionally substituted by halogen or a C 1-6 alkyl group, with the proviso that when one is (b) or (c) the other is hydrogen (a); [0031] R 4 represents (a) phenyl substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, —CO 2 H and —CO 2 R 8 , or (b) phenoxymethyl or a 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, —CO 2 H, —CO 2 R 8 , nitro, CN, NO 2 , hydroxymethyl and —CONHR 8 , [0032] or (c) a group (W): [0033] wherein A represents an aryl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group; R 5 represents cyano, tetrazol-5-yl, —CO 2 H or —CO 2 R 8 ; R 6 and R 7 independently represent hydrogen, C 1-6 alkyl, —CO 2 H, —CO 2 R 8 , cyano, tetrazol-5-yl, halogen, trifluoromethyl or C 1-6 alkoxy, or when R 6 and R 7 are bonded to adjacent carbon atoms, R 6 and. R 7 may, together with the carbon atoms to which they are bonded, form a fused 5- or 6-membered ring optionally containing one or two nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur atoms; each R 12 independently represents substituents selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl and C 1-6 alkoxy, and n represents an integer from 0-4; and [0034] R 8 and R 9 independently represent C 1-6 alkyl; [0035] comprising hydrolysis of a compound of Formula (IB) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: [0036] wherein: [0037] R 1 represents an aryl, phenoxymethyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, each of which is optionally substituted by one or more substituents selected from: halogen, C 1-6 alkoxy, C 1-6 alkyl, nitro, cyano, trifluoromethyl, —NR 8 R 9 and —NHSO 2 R 8 ; [0038] R 2 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0039] R 3 represents hydrogen or C 1-6 alkyl; [0040] R 4 represents (a) phenyl substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy and —CO 2 R 8 , or (b) phenoxymethyl or a 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl, C 1-6 alkoxy, —CO 2 R 8 , CN, NO 2 , hydroxymethyl and —CONHR 8 , [0041] or (c) a group (W): [0042] wherein A represents an aryl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group; R 5 represents cyano, tetrazol-5-yl or —CO 2 R 8 ; R 6 and R 7 independently represent hydrogen, C 1-6 alkyl, CO 2 R 8 , cyano, tetrazol-5-yl, halogen, trifluoromethyl or C 1-6 alkoxy, or when R 6 and R 7 are bonded to adjacent carbon atoms, R 6 and R 7 may, together with the carbon atoms to which they are bonded, form a fused 5- or 6-membered ring optionally containing one or two nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur atoms; each R 12 independently represents substituents selected from: C 1-6 alkyl, halogen, trifluoromethyl and C 1-6 alkoxy, and n represents an integer from 0-4; [0043] R 8 and R 9 independently represent C 1-6 alkyl; and [0044] R 11 represents C 1-6 alkyl or aryl optionally substituted by C 1-6 alkyl or halogen; and optionally when the group R 4 in formula IB is substituted by —CO 2 R 8 , the step of hydrolysing the ester group —CO 2 R 8 to produce a compound of Formula (IA), wherein R 4 is substituted by a —CO 2 H group. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0045] As used herein, the terms “alkyl” and “alkoxy” mean both straight and branched chain saturated hydrocarbon groups. Examples of alkyl groups include methyl, ethyl, propyl and butyl groups. Examples of alkoxy groups include methoxy and ethoxy groups. [0046] As used herein, the term “aryl” refers to an optionally substituted aromatic group with at least one ring having a conjugated pi-electron system, containing up to two conjugated or fused ring systems. “Aryl” includes monocyclic or bicyclic aromatic carbocyclic groups, such as phenyl and naphthyl, all of which may be optionally substituted. Preferred “aryl” moieties are unsubstituted, monosubstituted, disubstituted or trisubstituted phenyl and naphthyl. Preferred “aryl” substituents are selected from the group consisting of halogen, C 1-6 alkoxy, C 1-6 alkyl, nitro, cyano, trifluoromethyl, —NR 8 R 9 , —NHSO 2 R 8 and —CO 2 R 8 . [0047] As used herein, the term “heteroaromatic group” means an optionally substituted aromatic group containing one or more heteroatoms selected from: nitrogen, sulphur and oxygen atoms, with at least one ring having a conjugated pi-electron system, containing up to two conjugated or fused ring systems. Examples of 5-membered groups include unsubstituted, monosubstituted, disubstituted or trisubstituted thiophene, thiazole, pyrrole, pyrazole, imidazole and furan. Examples of 6-membered groups include unsubstituted, monosubstituted, disubstituted or trisubstituted pyridyl, pyrazyl and pyrimidyl. Preferred “heteroaromatic” substituents are selected from the group consisting of halogen, C 1-6 alkoxy, C 1-6 alkyl, nitro, cyano, trifluoromethyl, —NR 8 R 9 , —NHSO 2 R 8 , —CO 2 R 8 , CN, NO 2 , hydroxymethyl and —CONHR 8 . [0048] As used herein, the term “halogen” means an atom selected from fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine. [0049] Preferably, R 1 represents an aryl group optionally substituted by one or more substituents selected from: halogen, C 1-6 alkoxy, C 1-6 alkyl and trifluoromethyl. More preferably, R 1 represents phenyl substituted by a halogen group, which atom or group is preferably located in the meta position. Most preferably, R 1 represents phenyl substituted by a chlorine atom located in the meta position. [0050] Preferably, R 2 represents hydrogen. [0051] Preferably, R 3 represents hydrogen. [0052] Preferably, X 1 and X 2 both represent hydrogen. [0053] Preferably, R 4 represents group (W). [0054] Preferably, A represents a phenyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaromatic group. More preferably A represents a phenyl, pyridine, furan or thiophene group. Preferably A is located meta to the phenyl ring. [0055] In a compound of Formula (IA), R 5 is preferably —CO 2 H. In a compound of Formula (IB), R 5 is preferably —CO 2 CH 3 . [0056] Preferably, R 6 and R 7 represent hydrogen. [0057] Preferably, R 11 represents methyl. [0058] Preferably, n represents 0. [0059] It is to be understood that the present invention covers all combinations of suitable, convenient and preferred groups described herein above. Particularly preferred compounds, or compounds of the processes, of the invention include those in which each variable is selected from the preferred groups for each variable. Even more preferable compounds of the invention, or compounds of the processes, include those where each variable is selected from the more preferred or most preferred groups for each variable. [0060] It will be appreciated that the above compounds of Formula (IA) are optically active. Processes for preparing individual, isolated isomers and mixtures thereof, including racemates, are within the scope of the present invention. [0061] Preferably the compound of Formula (IA) is selected from: [0062] 3′-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino][, 1,1′-biphenyl]-3-carboxylic acid hydrochloride, [0063] 2-{3-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino]phenyl}-3-furoic acid, [0064] 3-{3-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino]phenyl}isonicotinic acid, [0065] 3′-[((2R)-2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}propyl)amino]-1,1′-biphenyl-2-carboxylic acid, and [0066] 2-{3-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino]phenyl}thiophene-3-carboxylic acid and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. [0067] Arylethanoldiamine derivatives are known to be beta-3-adrenoceptor agonists. Preferably the compound of Formula (IA) is a beta-3-adrenoceptor agonist. More preferably, the compound of Formula (IA) is a selective beta-3-adrenoceptor agonist. [0068] As used herein, a “pharmaceutically acceptable derivative” means a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester, or salt of such ester, or any other compound which, upon administration to the recipient, is capable of providing (directly or indirectly) a compound of Formula (IA) or an active metabolite or residue thereof. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the compounds of Formula (IA) may be modified to provide pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof at any of the functional groups in the compounds of Formula (IA). Of particular interest as such derivatives are compounds modified at the carboxyl function, hydroxyl functions or at amino groups. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives of the compounds of Formula (IA) may be derivatised at more than one position. [0069] Preferred pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives of the compounds of Formula (IA) are pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds of Formula (IA) include those derived from pharmaceutically acceptable inorganic and organic acids and bases. Examples of suitable acids include hydrochloric, hydrobromic, sulphuric, nitric, perchloric, fumaric, maleic, phosphoric, glycollic, lactic, salicylic, succinic, toluene-p-sulphonic, tartaric, acetic, citric, methanesulphonic, formic, benzoic, malonic, naphthalene-2-sulphonic and benzenesulphonic acids. Other acids such as oxalic, while not in themselves pharmaceutically acceptable may be useful in the preparation of salts useful as intermediates in obtaining compounds of the invention and their pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts. Salts derived from appropriate bases include alkali metal (e.g. sodium), alkaline earth metal (e.g. magnesium), ammonium and NR 4 + (where R is C 1-4 alkyl) salts. [0070] Preferably, hydrolysis of a compound of Formula (IB) to form a compound of Formula (IA) is carried out by reflux in the presence of an aqueous solution of a group 1 or group 2 metal hydroxide, e.g. NaOH or KOH, and preferably an alkanol, e.g. MeOH, for at least 4 hours. The hydrolysis may be full or partial. A compound of Formula (A) in which X 1 or X 2 is (b) C 1-6 alkylCO, or (c) an aryl CO group optionally substituted by halogen or a C 1-6 alkyl group, can be produced by the partial hydrolysis of a compound of Formula (BB) and isolated by standard chromatography techniques. [0071] The optional step of hydrolysing the ester group —CO 2 R 8 to produce a compound of Formula (IA), wherein R 4 is substituted by a —CO 2 H group can be carried out by a further hydrolysis step under standard hydrolysis conditions as would be apparent to a skilled person. [0072] In the following description, the groups R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 , R 8 , R 9 , R 1 , R 12 , W and A are as defined above unless otherwise stated. R 4 is as defined in Formula (IB) above unless otherwise stated. [0073] A compound of Formula (IB) may be prepared by reacting a compound of Formula (II) with a compound of Formula (III): [0074] at elevated temperature and pressure, optionally in the presence of one or more of: C 3-6 alkanols, acetonitrile, N-methyl-pyrrolidinone (NNT), isobutylacetate, isopropylacetate, dimethylformamide (DMF), toluene, xylene or dimethylacetamide (DMA); preferably toluene and/or xylene. The temperature for the reaction is suitably 100° C. or greater, preferably 100-150° C., more preferably 100-120° C. [0075] The reaction of a compound of Formula (II) with a compound of Formula (III) to form a compound of Formula (IB) and the subsequent conversion of a compound of Formula (IB) to a compound of Formula (IA) may be carried out separately or in situ. The reaction is preferably carried out in situ. [0076] A compound of Formula (E) may be prepared from a compound of Formula (IV): [0077] wherein L represents a leaving group such as a halogen atom (e.g. chlorine), by cyclisation in the presence of a solvent selected from: dichloromethane (DCM), EtOAc, toluene and/or xylene, and a base selected from: Na 2 CO 3 , NaOH, anhydrous Et 3 N and/or an amine, e.g. aqueous NH 3 . Preferably the solvent is DCM. Preferably the base is aqueous NH 3 . [0078] Compounds of Formula (IV) may be prepared from compounds of Formula (V) [0079] using any suitable method for the preparation of amidines. For example, by condensation of a compound of Formula (VI) wherein L represents a leaving group as previously defined, in the presence of a solvent selected from: DCM, toluene, EtOAc or CH 3 CN, and PCl 5 or POCl 3 . Preferably the solvent is EtOAc. Preferably PCl 5 is present. [0080] Compounds of Formula (V) may be prepared by reaction of a compound of Formula (VII) with a compound of Formula (VIII) according to the method of Thompson, ( J. Org. Chem. 1984, 49,5237), [0081] where Z is halogen or triflate, using a suitable boronic acid coupling conditions, e.g. palladium on carbon and sodium carbonate or Pd(PPh 3 ) 4 (tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (0)), followed by reduction of the nitro group using standard methods, e.g. under hydrogen using a suitable catalyst, such as palladium on carbon in a suitable solvent such as an alcohol, tetrahydrofuran, dimethoxyethane (DME), ethyl acetate, isopropyl acetate, toluene, iso-octane, cyclohexane or water or mixtures thereof, optionally at elevated temperature. [0082] Alternatively, according to a further process (process B), a compound of Formula (V) wherein A is furan or thiophene; R 5 is —CO 2 H or —CO 2 R 8 and R 6 and R 7 independently represent hydrogen, C 1-6 alkyl, —CO 2 H, —CO 2 R 8 , cyano, tetrazol-5-yl, trifluoromethyl or C 1-6 alkoxy, or when R 6 and R 7 are bonded to adjacent carbon atoms, R 6 and R 7 may, together with the carbon atoms to which they are bonded, form a fused 5- or 6-membered ring optionally containing one or two nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur atoms; may be prepared from the reaction of a compound of Formula (VIIa) where Y is bromine, iodine or triflate, with a compound of Formula (VIIb), in the presence of a suitable palladium catalyst and a suitable base, followed by reduction of the nitro group under standard conditions. Suitable palladium catalysts include, but are not limited to Pd(PPh 3 ) 4 (tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (0)). Suitable bases include, but are not limited to KOAc. Preferably, a solvent selected from toluene, DMA, DMF, NMP, isobutyronitrile and 1,2-diethoxy-ethane is present. A preferred solvent is toluene. The process is suitably carried out at elevated temperature, preferably at 80-120° C., more preferably at about 110° C. In process B, preferably R 5 is COOH or COOCH 3 , preferably R 6 and R 7 represent hydrogen, and preferably Y represents bromine. More preferably, the compound of formula (V) is a 2-aryl-3-carboxy furan or thiophene or a 5-aryl-3-carboxy furan or thiophene. [0083] For 2-aryl-3-carboxy furan or thiophene product, use of the palladium catalyst Pd(PPh 3 ) 4 in the presence of the base KOAc is preferred. On a preparative scale (50 g of Aryl bromide) the optimum conditions were found to be 1.4 eq of ethyl 3-furoate, 5 mol % Pd(PPh 3 )4, toluene reflux 24 hrs afforded the 2-aryl product in 76% yield. This represents an increased selectivity for synthesis over previously known processes. For 5-aryl-3-carboxy furan product, use of the palladium catalyst Pd/C in the presence of the solvent NMP and the base KOAc is preferred. For the 5-aryl-3-carboxy thiophene product use of the palladium catalyst Pd 2 (dba) 3 in the presence of solvent NMP and the base KOAc is preferred. [0084] Compounds of Formula (V) may also be prepared by reaction of a compound of Formula (VIII) with a compound of Formula (IX) using standard boronic acid coupling methods described above. [0085] Compounds of Formula (VI) may be prepared by reaction of a compound of Formula (X) with anhydrous HCl. [0086] Further methods for preparing compounds of Formula (V) are disclosed in WO 97/21665. [0087] Compounds of Formulae (VII), (VIIa), (VIIb), (VIII), (IX) and (X) are known compounds and can be prepared by processes well known in the art. [0088] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in the preparation of the compound of Formula (IA) or a solvate thereof it may be necessary and/or desirable to protect one or more sensitive groups in the molecule to prevent undesirable side reactions. The protecting groups used in the preparation of the compound of Formula (IA) may be used in a conventional manner. See for example Protective Groups in Organic Chemistry, Ed. J. F. W. McOmie, Plenum Press, London (1973) or Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis, Theodora Green, John Wiley and Sons, New York (1981). Conventional amino protecting groups may include for example aralkyl groups, such as benzyl, diphenylmethyl or triphenylmethyl groups; and acyl groups such as N-benzyloxycarbonyl or t-butoxycarbonyl. Conventional oxygen protecting groups may include for example alky silyl groups, such as trimethylsilyl or tert-butyldimethylsilyl; alkyl ethers such as tetrahydropyranyl or tert-butyl; or esters such as acetate. [0089] Removal of any protecting groups present may be achieved by conventional procedures. An arylalkyl group such as benzyl, may be cleaved by hydrogenolysis in the presence of a catalyst, e.g., palladium on charcoal; an acyl group such as N-benzyloxycarbonyl may be removed by hydrolysis with, for example, hydrogen bromide in acetic acid or by reduction, for example by catalytic hydrogenation. [0090] As will be appreciated, in any of the general processes described above it may be desirable or even necessary to protect any sensitive groups in the Molecule as just described. Thus, a reaction step involving deprotection of a protected derivative of general Formula (IA) or a salt thereof may be carried out subsequent to any of the above described processes. [0091] Thus, according to a further aspect of the invention, the following reactions may, if necessary and/or desired be carried out in any appropriate sequence subsequent to any of the general processes: [0092] (i) removal of any protecting groups; and [0093] (ii) conversion of a compound of Formula (IA) or a solvate thereof into a pharmaceutically acceptable solvate thereof. EXAMPLES [0094] The invention is further illustrated by the following intermediates and examples. All temperatures are in degrees centigrade. Example 1 Preparation of 3′-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino][1,1′-biphenyl]-3-carboxylic Acid Hydrochloride [0095] [0095] [0096] Stage 1 Preparation of methyl 3′-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1,1′-biphenyl-3-carboxylate [0097] N-(2-chloroethyl)acetamide (0.64 wt) was added over ca. 20 min. to a stirred suspension of phosphorus pentachloride (1.1 wt) in ethyl acetate (2.2 vol.) at 0-5° C. under nitrogen. After stirring for ca. 20 min. at 0-5° C., a solution of Methyl 3′-amino(1,1′-biphenyl)-3-carboxylate (1 wt) in ethyl acetate (6.6 vol.) was added over ca. 30 min. at 0-5° C. Ethyl acetate (2 vol.) was then added and the mixture allowed to warm to 20-25° C., at which temperature it was stirred for at least 2 h then sampled for analysis. The mixture was cooled to 2-5° C. and aged for at least 1 h to allow complete precipitation of the product. The mixture was filtered and the solid washed with ethyl acetate (2×2 vol.). The colourless solid was sucked dry and sampled for analysis. [0098] The amidine hydrochloride damp cake above was slurried in a mixture of dichloromethane (7.3 vol.) and water (ca. 7.3 vol.) at 20-25° C. Ammonium hydroxide solution (35% w/w ammonia, 0.77 wt.) was added and stirring continued for at least 1 h. The layers were allowed to separate, the bottom organic layer was filtered into another vessel via a cartridge line filter. Dichloromethane (3 vol.) was added as a line wash, and the solution concentrated at reduced pressure to ca. 3 vol. The solution was diluted with dichloromethane (5.8 vol.) and vacuum distillation recommenced, concentrating down to ca. 3 vol. The solution was diluted with dichloromethane (5.8 vol.) and vacuum distillation recommenced, concentrating down to ca. 3 vol. Diisopropyl ether (1.8 vol.) was added, followed by methyl 3′-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1,1′-biphenyl-3-carboxylate seed crystals and the solution cooled to 2-5° C. to initiate crystallisation. Diisopropyl ether (7.0 vol.) was added and vacuum distillation recommenced, concentrating the solution to ca. 4.5 vol. Diisopropyl ether (4.4 vol.) was added, the slurry cooled to <5° C., and aged for at least 1 h. The product was collected by vacuum filtration, washed with diisopropyl ether (2×3 vol.) and dried in-vacuo at <50° C. [0099] Expected yield: 80-82% theory. [0100] [0100] 1 H nmr (CDCl 3 ): 2.10 (s, 3H); 3.80-3.90 (m, 4H); 3.95 (s, 3H); 7.10 (d, 1H); 7.30 (s, 1H); 7.35-7.45 (m, 2H); 7.50 (t, 1H); 7.75 (d, 1H); 8.05 (d, 1H); 8.30 (s, 1H). [0101] Stage 2 Preparation of 3′-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino][1,1′-biphenyl]-3-carboxylic Acid Hydrochloride [0102] Methyl 3′-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1,1′-biphenyl-3-carboxylate (1 wt), (R)-3-chlorostyrene oxide (0.44 vol) and toluene (1 vol) were heated together at reflux for ca. 16-24 h. The reaction mixture was sampled for analysis by LC (complete when residual methyl 3′-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1,1′-biphenyl-3-carboxylate <3% a/a @ 220 nm). The mixture was cooled to ca. 90° C. and 2M sodium hydroxide solution (5.3 vol.) followed by methanol (6.2 vol.) were added. The mixture was configured for distillation and ca. 3 vol. were removed at atmospheric pressure to give a homogeneous yellow solution (ca. 1 h). This was refluxed for ca. 5 h, sampled and checked by LC (<2% a/a N-acyl @ 242 nm). The solution was cooled to <50° C. and further methanol (4 vol.) was added. [0103] Concentrated hydrochloric acid (1.5 vol.), methanol (3 vol.) and water (1 vol.) were heated to ca. 40-45° C. The hydrolysate mixture above was added over 30-40 min. to the acid solution. The resultant slurry was aged at 4045° C. for at least 20 min. then cooled to 20-25° C. The product was collected by filtration, washed with water (2×2 vol.) then dried in vacuo at 60° C. [0104] Expected yield 85-87% th [0105] [0105] 1 H rmr (d 6 -DMSO): 3.0-3.3 (m, 4H); 3.5-3.6 (m, 2H); 5.05 (d, 1H); 6.1 (bs, 1H); 6.35 (bs, 1H); 6.7 (d, 1H); 6.9-7.0 (m, 2H); 7.25 (t, 1H); 7.35-7.45 (m, 3H); 7.5 (s, 1H); 7.6 (t, 1H); 7.9 (d, 1H); 7.95 (d, 1H); 8.15 (s, 1H); 9.0 (bs, 1H); 9.5 (bs, 1H); 13.1 (bs, 1H). Example 2 Preparation of 3-{3-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino]phenyl}isonicotinic Acid [0106] [0106] [0107] Stage 1 Preparation of N-Phenylisonicotinamide [0108] Into a 4-necked RBF equipped with an overhead stirrer, J-Kem internal temperature probe, a reflux condensor and an addition funnel was placed isonicotinoyl chloride-hydrochloride (50 g, 0.28 mol). To this solid was added 500 ml of 1,2-dichloroethane and the slurry cooled to 0° C. using an ice/water bath. To the addition funnel was added a mixture of the aniline (31.4 g, 0.34 mol) and Et 3 N (59.5 g, 0.59 mol) in 50 ml of 1,2-dichloroethane. This mixture was slowly added to the slurry over 25 min. A slight exotherm was observed from 2.4° C. to 15° C. after the addition of the first 10 ml. The reaction mixture was observed to cool down slowly. The reaction mixture turned yellow and became heterogeneous. After 30 min., the ice bath was removed and the reaction heated to reflux for 1.5 h. Deionized water, 100 ml, was added and an off-white precipitate formed. The precipitate was collected by filtering through paper on a Buchner funnel and placed in a drying oven (60° C.) overnight to give 45 g (81% th) of an off-white crystalline solid. [0109] [0109] 1 H NMR (300 MHz, d 6 -DMSO) δ: 10.48 (br s, 1H), 8.79 (d, 2H), 7.85 (d, 2H), 7.77 (d, 2H), 7.37 (t, 2H), 7.14 (t, 1H). [0110] Stage 2(a) Preparation of N-Phenyl-3-bromoisonicotinamide [0111] As described in Synthetic Communications 1997, 27, 1075-1086, a 4-necked RBF equipped with an overhead stirrer and a J-Kem internal temperature probe was placed N-phenylisonicotinamide (35.7 g, 0.18 mol) and anhydrous THF (700 ml). All material appeared to go into solution. This mixture was cooled to 69° C. in a dry ice/IPA bath. To this was slowly added nBuLi (158 ml of a 2.5 M solution in Hexanes) in three portions. While adding the first equivalent of nBuLi, an exotherm was observed raising the temperature to ca. −41° C. The orange reaction mixture was slightly heterogeneous. This was allowed to slowly warm to −5 to 0° C. over 1.5 hrs in a ice/brine bath. The reaction mixture was recooled to −72° C. and 1,2-dibromoethane (36 g, 0.189 mol) in 15 ml of TIE was added. A slight exotherm was observed rising to −62° C. The reaction mixture was allowed to stir overnight. The reaction mixture was poured into a flask containing 10 vol. SiO 2 . Methanol (100 ml) was added and the mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The dried silica gel was then placed on top of a bed of silica gel. The plug of silica gel was washed with 40% ethyl acetate/Hexane as eluent. Concentration of 10 liters of solvent afforded an off-white solid. The material was placed in vacuum drying at 60° C. overnight to provide 34 g (68% th) of an off-white solid. [0112] [0112] 1 H NMR (300 MHz, d 6 -DMSO) δ; 10.65 (s, 1H), 8.87 (s, 1H), 8.68 (d, 1H), 7.65 (m, 3H), 7.37 (t, 2H), 7.14 (t, 1H). [0113] Stage 2(b) Preparation of N-Phenyl-3-iodoisonicotinamide [0114] Into a 4-necked RBF equipped with an overhead stirrer and a J-Kem internal temperature probe was placed N-phenylisonicotinamide (35.1 g, 0.18 mol) and anhydrous THF (700 ml). All material appeared to go into solution. This mixture was cooled to −69° C. in a dry ice/IPA bath. To this was slowly added nBuLi (156 ml of a 2.5 M in Hexanes) in two portions. While adding the first equivalent of nBuLi, an exotherm was observed raising the temperature to approx. −41° C. The orange reaction mixture was slightly heterogeneous. This was allowed to slowly warm to 12° C. over 2 h. This mixture was re-cooled to −70° C. At this point, a THF solution (175 ml) of iodine (47.2 g, 0.19 mol) was added. This was allowed to warm and stirred at room temperature for 14 h. To this solution was added 150 ml of a saturated solution of potassium meta-bisulfite and diluted with CH 2 Cl 2 . The two layers were separated and the organic layer was extracted with brine. The two layers were separated and the organic layer was dried over MgSO 4 , filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a black oil. This material was purified by SiO 2 column chromatography using 40% ethyl acetate/Hexane as eluent. Concentration gave 38.6 g (67% th) of an off-white solid. [0115] Stage 3 Preparation of 3-Bromoisonicotinic Acid Hydrochloride [0116] To an RBF equipped with a condenser and outfitted with a heating mantle was placed the N-phenyl-3-bromo-isonicotinamide (34 g, 0.123 mol) and 200 ml of 25% HCl. The reaction was left to stir for 3 days. The mixture was cooled to room temperature, and diluted with ethyl acetate. The aqueous layer was extracted and the two layers separated. To the aqueous layer, solid Na 2 CO 3 was added until the pH˜4-5 and a dark oil layer appeared. This was then diluted and extracted with ethyl acetate. The two layers were separated and the aqueous layer was concentrated under reduced pressure to give an off-white solid. To this 100 ml of 2M HCl was added and the solids collected. The off-white solids were placed in a vacuum oven at 60° C. overnight. Yield: 22.4 g (76% th). [0117] [0117] 1 H NMR (300 MHz, d 6 -DMSO) δ t ; 8.83 (s, 1H), 8.61 (d, 1H), 7.65 (d, 1H). [0118] This method was also applied to the hydrolysis of 3-iodo-isonicotinic acid. [0119] Stage 4 Preparation of Methyl 3-bromoisonicotinate Hydrochloride [0120] To a stirred suspension of 3-bromoisonicotinic acid hydrochloride (27.4 g, 0.10 mol) in ethyl acetate (250 ml) was added one drop of DMF followed by thionyl chloride (18.5 g, 0.16 mol). The mixture was heated at reflux for 1 h and allowed to cool to room temperature. The mixture was then concentrated under reduced pressure to give an off-white solid. To this was added methanol and this was refluxed for 2 hrs. The mixture was then concentrated under reduced pressure and diluted with ethyl acetate. The precipitate was collected on filter paper on a Buchner funnel. The white solid was washed with ethyl acetate and air-dried. The white solid was placed in a vacuum oven at 60° C. overnight with a nitrogen bleed. Yield: 18.5 g (71% th). [0121] [0121] 1 H NMR (300 MHz, d 6 -DMSO) δ: 8.80 (s, 1H), 8.59 (d, 1H), 7.62 (d, 1H), 3.91 (s, 3H). [0122] This method was also applied to the esterification of 3-iodo-isonicotinic acid. [0123] Stage 5 Preparation Of Methyl 3-(3-Nitrophenyl)Isonicotinate [0124] To an RBF equipped with a heating mantle and reflux condensor was placed the methyl 3-iodoisonicotinate (5.1 g, 0.02 mmol), a 4:1 mixture of toluene/ethanol (75 ml), 1.0N solution of sodium carbonate (25 ml) followed by dichloro[1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)-ferrocene]palladium(II) dichloromethane adduct (1.4 g, 0.002 mol). This reaction mixture was heated to reflux for 6 h. The purple reaction mixture was filtered through a compressed pad of Celite, which was washed with ethyl acetate. The ethyl acetate layer was washed first with deionized water and then washed 3× with 10% aqueous HCl. The aqueous layers were concentrated in half under reduced pressure and then diluted with ethyl acetate. The aqueous layer was neutralized with solid sodium carbonate, extracted and separated. The organic layer was dried over MgSO 4 , filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give 1.9 g (43% th) of an off-white solid. [0125] [0125] 1 H NMR (300 MHz, d 6 -DMSO) δ: 8.81 (d, 1H), 8.78 (s, 1H), 8.30 (d, 1H), 8.23 (s, 1H), 7.87-7.74 (m, 3H), 3.37 (s, 3H). [0126] Stage 6 Preparation of Methyl 3-(3-aminophenyl)isonicotinate [0127] Into an RBF was placed methyl 3-(3-nitrophenyl)isonicotinate (1.85 g, 7.16 mmol) and to this was added methanol (50 ml), ammonium formate (6.0 g, 35.8 mmol) and 5 wt % Pd/C (Degussa type). No initial exotherm was noticed (to the touch) and no bubbling or gas evolution was observed. After 2 h, some SM was observed to be undissolved and THF (25 ml) was added to aid in solubility. The reaction was slow at room temperature. The reaction mixture was then placed on the Buchi hydrogenator overnight. The mixture was then filtered through a pad of Celite and washed with ethyl acetate. This solution was washed with water, separated and the organic layer was dried over MgSO 4 , filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The orange oil was purified by silica gel flash chromatography using 30% ethyl acetate/Hexanes as eluent to yield 1.15 g (71% th) of an orange oil. [0128] [0128] 1 H NMR (300 MHz, d 6 -DMSO) δ: 8.67 (, d, 1H), 8.63 (s, 1H), 7.59 (d, 1H), 7.08 (t, 1H), 6.61-6.44 (m, 3H), 5.24 (br s, 2H), 3.67 (s, 3H). [0129] Stage 7 Preparation of Methyl 3-[3-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl]isonicotinate [0130] N-(2-chloroethyl)acetamide (0.32 g) in ethyl acetate (5 ml) was added over 10 min. to a stirred suspension of phosphorus pentachloride (0.55 g) in ethyl acetate (2 ml) at 0° C. under nitrogen to give a clear pale straw solution. After 45 min. at 0° C. a solution of methyl 3-(3-aminophenyl)isonicotinate (0.4 g) in dichloromethane (10 ml) was added over 15 min. at 0-5° C. The mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 10 min. and then allowed to warm up to 20° C. After 3 h the mixture was treated with ammonium hydroxide solution (28%, 5 ml) over 10 min. and stirring continued for ca. 1 h. The layers were allowed to separate, the organic layer was collected, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate, and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (dichloromethane:methanol:ammonia=100:10:1, v/v/v) to give 0.25 g (48%) of yellow oil. [0131] [0131] 1 HNMR (400, CDCl 3 ) δ: 8.70 (d, 1H), 8.65 (s, 1H), 7.62 (d, 1H), 7.39 (t, 1H), 7.11-7.00 (m, 3H), 3.87-3.80 (m, 2H), 3.71 (s, 3H), 3.60-3.56 (m, 2H), 2.08 (s, 3H). [0132] Stage 8 Preparation of 3-{3-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino]phenyl}isonicotinic Acid [0133] A solution of methyl 3-[3-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl]isonicotinate (0.25 g) and (R)-3-chlorostyrene oxide (0.13 g) in anhydrous toluene (2 ml) was heated at reflux (ca. 110° C.) for 18 h. The mixture was cooled to ca. 50° C., 1M sodium hydroxide solution (4.8 ml) and methanol (3 ml) were added over 5-10 min. The apparatus was configured to distill out 4 ml of solvents under atmospheric pressure. The homogeneous mixture obtained was heated at reflux for 2 h. The mixture was cooled to <50° C., and concentrated hydrochloric acid (36%, 0.3 ml) was added dropwise to adjust pH to 7. The aqueous solution was loaded on to silica gel column and eluted with a mixture of dichloromethane and methanol (8/2, v/v). The product was isolated as 0.2 g (57%) of hygroscopic brown solid. [0134] [0134] 1 H NMR (400, CD 3 OD) δ: 8.48 (s, 1H), 8.45 (d, 1H), 7.44-7.40 (m, 2H), 7.33-7.27 (m, 3H), 7.16 (t, 1H), 6.86-6.80 (m, 2H), 6.66 (d, 1H), 5.01-4.98 (m, 1H), 3.49-3.45 (m, 2H), 3.32-3.20 (m, 3H), 3.14-3.09 (m, 1H). Example 3 Preparation of 2-{3-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}-ethyl)amino]phenyl}-3-furoic Acid [0135] [0135] [0136] Stage 1 Preparation of ethyl 2-(3-aminophenyl)-3-furoate Hydrochloride [0137] To a stirred solution of 1-bromo-3-nitrobenzene (50 g) and ethyl 3-furoate (48.6 g) in toluene (500 ml) were added potassium acetate (36.4 g) and tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(0) (14.3 g). The mixture was heated at reflux for 66 h, cooled to room temperature, and filtered through Celite (50 g). The filtercake was rinsed with ethyl acetate (2×200 ml). The combined filtrate/rinse was concentrated to an oil. Methanol (500 ml) and 10% palladium on carbon (50% wet paste, 3.2 g) were added. The mixture was stirred under an atmosphere of hydrogen until uptake ceased. The mixture was filtered through Celite (50 g), and the filtercake was rinsed with ethyl acetate (200 ml). The combined filtrate/rinse was concentrated to an oil, and ethyl acetate (250 ml) was added. The solution was washed with water (100 ml). The organic phase was dried over sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated to an oil. Dichloromethane (50 ml) was added, and the resulting solution was filtered through a silica gel plug (100 g). The plug was rinsed with dichloromethane (2500 ml) to extract all ethyl 2-(3-aminophenyl)-3-furoate hydrochloride. The combined filtrate/rinse was concentrated to an oil, and methyl tert-butyl ether (250 ml) was added. To this stirred solution was slowly added 4.0 M HCl in dioxane (93 ml). After aging for 15 minutes at 0-5° C., the precipitate was collected by filtration, washed with methyl tert-butyl ether (2×100 ml), and dried in vacuo at 45-50° C. to yield 46.8 g (71% th) of the title compound as a beige solid. [0138] [0138] 1 H NMR (300 MHz, d 6 -DMSO) δ: 7.90 (d, 1H), 7.78 (m, 2H), 7.51 (t, 1H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 4.25 (q, 2H), 1.26 (t, 3H). [0139] Stage 2 Preparation of ethyl 2-[3-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl]-3-furoate [0140] N-(2-chloroethyl)acetamide (1.21 g) in ethyl acetate (10 mL) was added over 10 min to a stirred suspension of phosphorus pentachloride (2.08 g) in ethyl acetate (2 ml) at 0° C. under nitrogen to give a clear pale straw solution. After 45 min. at 0° C. toluene (12 ml) was added, and ethyl 2-(3-aminophenyl)-3-furoate hydrochloride (1.78 g) was added in one portion into the above solution at 0-5° C. The mixture was stirred at 0-5° C. for 10 min. and then allowed to warm up to 20° C. After 2 h formation of the amidine was essentially complete (HPLC ethyl 2-(3-aminophenyl)-3-furoate hydrochloride <2% (220 nm, a/a). The mixture was cooled to 0-5° C., crushed ice (18 g) was added over 20 min. to destroy phosphorus oxychloride. Ammonium hydroxide (28%, 6.49 mL) was added at a rate that the internal temperature was kept below 25° C. (ca. 15 min). After 1 h at 20° C. additional ethyl acetate (12 ml) added to the above mixture, the organic layer was separated, washed with deionized water (2×12 ml), and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in acetone (5 ml) and ethyl acetate (5 ml), and treated with oxalic acid (0.72 g) at 40° C. for 30 min. After aging at <20° C. for at least 12 h, the precipitate was collected by filtration, washed with acetone (2×0.5 vol), and dried in vacuo at 45-50° C. to yield 1.9 g (73%) of white solid. [0141] [0141] 1 H NMR (400, d 6 -DMSO) δ: 8.00 (s, 1H), 7.92-7.90 (m, 2H), 7.64-7.55 (m, 2H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 4.32 (t, 2H), 4.22 (q, 2H), 3.93 (t, 2H), 2.22 (s, 3H), 1.24 (t, 3H). [0142] Stage 3 Preparation of 2-{3-[(2-{[(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino}ethyl)amino]phenyl}-3-furoic Acid [0143] Ammonium hydroxide (28%, 13 ml) was added over 10 min. to a mixture of ethyl 2-[3-(2-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl]-3-furoate (13.0 g), deionized water (104 ml), and toluene (104 ml). After 30 min stirring, the organic layer was collected, washed with deionized water (26 ml), and concentrated to ca. 30 ml to remove traces of water azetropically. (R)-3-Chlorostyrene oxide (5.17 g) was added, and the resultant was heated under nitrogen at 110° C. for at least 14 h. The mixture was cooled to ca. 50° C. 1M Sodium hydroxide aqueous solution (77.8 ml) and methanol (39 ml) were added, and the apparatus was configured for distillation. After ca. 1 h, the homogeneous solution obtained was heated at reflux (ca. 4 h) until the hydrolysis was complete (HPLC acetate <2% @ 220 nm, a/a). The mixture was cooled to <50° C. Methanol (26 ml) and 1M hydrochloric acid (78 ml) were heated to ca. 50° C. The reaction mixture from above was added over 20 min, and the resultant slurry was cooled to <20° C. and aged for a further 30 min. The product was collected by filtration, washed with deionized water (2×26 ml), and dried in vacuo at 50° C. to yield 12.7 g (95%) of off-white solid. [0144] [0144] 1 H NMR (400, d 6 -DMSO) δ: 7.66 (d, 1H), 7.39 (s, 1H), 7.32-7.26 (m, 4H), 7.12-7.04 (m, 2H), 6.72 (d, 1H), 6.58 (d, 1H), 5.75 (br, 1H), 4.78-4.74 (dd, 1H), 3.17 (t, 2H), 2.92-2.70 (m, 4H).
An improved process for preparing arylethanoldiamines is described. Compounds of this type are known to be useful as agonists at a typical beta-adrenoceptors (also known as beta-3-adrenoceptors).
2
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 09/228,432, filed Jan. 11, 1999, now abandoned which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 08/678,892, filed Jul. 12, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,858,199, issued to Joseph J. Hanak, on Jan. 12, 1999, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety and which was based on U.S. provisional Ser. No. 60/001,485, filed Jul. 17, 1995 and U.S. provisional Ser. No. 60/009,748, filed Jan. 11, 1996. FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to an improved device and method for separating and removing ionizable components dissolved in fluids, such as for example, water. Particularly, this invention relates to separating said ionizable substances into fractions by the action of electric current and of Coriolis force. More particularly, the invention relates to a rotary device and a process in which a liquid containing ionizable components is continuously fed in and the purified solvent and the solute in a concentrated solution are continuously removed. Still more particularly, the invention relates to a rotary device and a process in which said ionizable substances are separated in one of three modes, the modes being electrolytic, electrostatic, and electrodynamic. Most particularly, this invention relates to the electrodynamic mode, hereafter referred to as the ELDYN mode. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION U.S. Pat. No. 5,858,199, hereafter referred to as the Hanak patent, contains the description of apparatus and method for a water deionization process named Electrocoriolysis, also referred to as the ELCOR™ process. The background of the invention that appears in the Hanak patent, contains a detailed description of the electrolytic and the electrostatic modes, which is also relevant to the instant invention. It should be noted that the term ‘electrostatic’ in this description refers to a deionization process assisted by gravitational or centrifugal forces, while the term ‘capacitive’ refers to a deionization process not involving said forces; otherwise both the electrostatic and capacitive processes involve capacitive charging and discharging of the electrodes. Additional background information, which applies to the ELDYN mode, follows. While conducting tests using a dynamic Electrogravitational (EG) deionization device operating in the electrostatic mode, a new, previously unknown mode, co-existing and competing with the electrostatic mode has been discovered. As stated above, this new mode was named electrodynamic mode, or ELDYN mode. It was observed that unlike in the capacitive method of prior art [References 1, 2, 3], deionization and enhancement in the electrostatic mode were occurring simultaneously and continuously with the newly discovered ELDYN mode, solely by the combined action of an electrostatic field and gravitational force. On account of the fact that this new phenomenon had an implication of potential large gains in the throughput and energy efficiency of the water treatment process, an extensive examination of the results was undertaken to determine the mechanism of the ELDYN mode. Evidence for the Existence of the ELDYN Mode of Deionization The preceding test data indicate that the ELDYN mode occurs simultaneously with the electrostatic mode. The two appear to be competing processes. The occurrence of the ELDYN mode has been inferred from the mechanism previously known to be taking place in the capacitive mode of prior art [References 1, 2, 3], from three observations obtained in the study of EG deionization in the electrostatic mode, and from the first successful deionization using the ELCOR™ process operating in the electrostatic mode. (a) Mechanism of Deionization in the Capacitive Method Oren and Soffer [Ref. 1, 2], in describing their deionization process by ‘electrochemical parametric pumping’ that appears to be the original version of the capacitive method of deionization, observe that “almost all of the electric charge is directed to change NaCl concentration.” Farmer [Ref. 3], in his patent on a capacitive method of deionization, reported that deionization occurs only during charging, and enhancement occurs only during discharging. There was no provision in either case for Earth's gravity to assist deionization. (b) Evidence from Simultaneous Deionization and Enhancement The first piece of evidence, from FIG. 10 in the Hanak patent, reproduced herein as FIG. 1, is that during a voltage pulse commencing at ˜1350 s and ending at ˜4000 s, as well as during subsequent pulses, a high rate of deionization and enhancement were taking place simultaneously during the charging process, shown by the increasing voltage. Whereas deionization is expected during charging, enhancement is not expected until the polarity reversal, when capacitor discharge and the release of accumulated ions occur, as described in (a) above. We postulate that the simultaneous occurrence of enhancement is the consequence of the presence of the electrical double layer at the electrode surfaces, shown in FIG. 2 [Ref. 4]. The diffuse layer in the double layer contains elevated concentration of solvated ions having polarity opposite that of the electrode, rendering the solution in it more dense. Under the influence of gravitational or centrifugal force, the diffuse layer slides in the direction of this force, like an avalanche, along the surface of the electrode, while being held close to it by electrostatic force, resulting in the observed enhancement at the bottom of a stationary cell or the outer periphery of a rotating cell. The water molecules between the electrode and the diffuse layer act as a lubricant for this sliding motion. At the same time, the partially depleted solution between the electrodes moves in the direction opposite to the gravitational or centrifugal force to cause the observed depletion at the top of a stationary cell or near the hub of a rotating cell. This process constitutes a ‘leaky’ capacitor. Current must be constantly supplied to make up for the ions removed from the electrode surfaces. This current is in addition to the capacitive charging current. This postulated mechanism for the ELDYN mode implies that in the ELCOR™ process, in which centrifugal force is used, which can be made much greater than the gravitational force, the diffuse layer will be removed by the sliding action at a much greater rate, causing the ELDYN mode to predominate over the electrostatic mode. (c) Evidence from the Duration of the Current Pulse The second piece of evidence is the duration of the current pulse at the same, constant level of current, I, for different chemical species. This mode of charging is referred to as the ‘current step’ method, in which the potential, E, across the electrodes increases linearly with time, t, according to the equation: E=I(R s +t/C d ),   Eq. 1 where R s is the resistance in the electrolyte [Ref. 4] and C d is the double-layer capacitance. With the same set of electrodes, the charging time, t, should be the same to reach the same potential, E. Yet, in FIG. 9 in the Hanak patent, reproduced here as FIG. 3 and in FIG. 1, the average length of the current pulses were 870 s. (0.24 h) and 2390 s. (0.66 h) for CaCl 2 and H 2 SO 4 , respectively, both at a concentration of 0.01 M. Thus, the total charge transported in the case of sulfuric acid was 2.75 times greater. The flow rates of the feed were similar. If the electrostatic mode alone were operative, the total charge transported would have to be similar. With a solution of NaCl at a concentration of 0.001 M and at a low current of 17.5 mA, pulse length of up to 3.62 h was observed, which exceeds by far the time required to charge the electrodes capacitively to the maximum preset voltage. (d) Evidence from Constant Levels of Deionization and Enhancement The third piece of evidence can be seen again in FIG. 1, where nearly constant and similar levels of deionization and enhancement are maintained over the greater part of each pulse. This result is consistent with a constant, high ‘leakage current’ arising from the sliding diffuse layers. Similarly, in the 0.001 M NaCl case above, constant levels of deionization and enhancement of about 50% and 150%, respectively, have been observed for over three hours in each pulse. (e) Evidence from the First Successful Deionization Using the ELCOR™ Process Operating in the Electrostatic Mode A complete discussion of this evidence is presented in the Section entitled “Example.” Process Parameters Affecting the Deionization Process The following parameters have been identified as being likely to affect deionization in the ELDYN mode. Centrifugal Force. This is the prime independent parameter expected to give rise to the ELDYN mode and to have profound, beneficial effects on the process current, rate of deionization, Faradaic and energy efficiency, and the ultimate level of water purity. The rate of sliding and removal of the densified, diffuse layer is expected to be directly proportional to the magnitude of the G force generated by the Coriolis force, which creates ‘outward’ force on said layer, thereby setting it in sliding motion. The resulting continuous removal of the diffuse layer facilitates maintaining the state of charge or polarization of the electrodes at a low level and the voltage across the electrolyte at a high value. This condition, in turn, favors high current and faster ionic transport across the cell width. Electric Field. The rate of ionic transport across the cell is directly proportional to the electric field, which is the second of two key parameters affecting the ELDYN mode. A maximum limiting voltage, just below the decomposition potential for the electrolyte (ca. 1.1 V), can be used for the process. Another parameter for maximizing the electric field is the electrode spacing, as discussed further on. Surface Area of the Electrodes. As in the case of the electrostatic mode, the HSA electrodes are a pre-requisite for maintaining high current density and, thereby, high rate of deionization. In combination with sufficient centrifugal force, HSA electrodes produce a condition of constant, high, dc current at a constant maximum voltage to facilitate a continuous operation without the need of changing polarity. Supercapacitor electrodes such as those described in the Hanak patent, employed in the electrostatic mode, can be used. Flow Rate of the Feed Liquid. The flow rate of the feed liquid affects enhancement and depletion; the ratio of the two quantities is the separation ratio. To date the limit of this ratio for a single stage has not been established. Its magnitude is expected to determine the number of stages in a multi-stage device to achieve a desired degree of deionization and enhancement. Ratio of the Effluent Flow Rates. In order to achieve a cost-effective disposal or recovery of the dissolved solute, it should be concentrated into a minimal practical volume. For this purpose, the ratio of the flow rate of the diluent and the concentrate (Rd/Rc) should be substantially greater than 1, perhaps as large as 10 or more. An additional benefit from the high ratio is a substantial increase in the volume of the purified diluent. Concentration of the Solute. The concentration of the feed affects the efficiency of water-treatment processes. As reported in the Hanak patent, the range of concentration selected for the initial feed has been shown to span over a range of over three orders of magnitude, from 0.0001 to 0.3 M, corresponding to ca. 10 to 30,000 mg/L for selected solutes. Temperature. Elevated temperature, by promoting molecular motion and lowering surface tension and intermolecular cohesion, may favor the ELDYN mode in a manner similar to electrolytic processes. Maintaining a constant temperature would minimize the effect of this variable. Ionic Properties as Process Parameters In addition to the preceding process parameters, the following materials' parameters are expected to affect deionization in this mode. Ionic Mass. Ionic transport is inversely proportional to the ionic mass, slowing down the heavy ions. However, the rate of sliding and removal of the densified, diffuse ionic sheath should be also proportional to the ionic mass. In turn, it should help maintain a low state of polarization and high electric field, enhancing the transport of the heavy ions across the cell. Thus, high ionic mass should be an important factor in the deionization of heavy ions, such as those of the transuranic elements. Ionic Radius. The transference number is inversely proportional to the ionic size, meaning slower transit between electrodes. This condition is in part compensated for by a lower state of electrode polarization resulting from a relatively lower population of the ions on the electrode surfaces because of their large size. Furthermore, large ionic size also results in diminished ionic charge density, which would promote sliding. Thus, on balance, large ionic size is expected to favor the ELDYN mode. Ionic Valence. A major impact on ionic transport is that the transport current required is directly proportional to ionic valence. In addition, increased charge on multivalent ions should result in greater attraction to the electrode and possibly an increase in the ‘braking’ action to sliding. On the other hand, greater charge on the cations leads to higher solvation, making the ion larger, with a resulting positive, offsetting effect discussed above. Dependent Process Parameters The dependent process parameters are the process current and the three conductivities for determining concentrations of the feed and the effluents. All are monitored in real time, along with the process voltage, an independent parameter. It should be noted that in the case of the electrolytic and electrostatic modes, the process current, set to a constant level, was an independent process parameter. In the ELDYN mode it is more advantageous for the current to be a parameter dependent on other variables such as centrifugal force and electric field. TABLE 1 List of Computed Deionization Performance Parameters Acronym Parameter Units AVIP Average process current MA DSO Observed relative deionization % ONH Observed relative enhancement % DST Theoretical relative deionization % TNH Theoretical relative enhancement % FEFD Faradaic deionization efficiency % FEFC Faradaic enhancement efficiency % SEP Separation ratio (ONH/DSO) — KGKWH rate of mass removal per unit of energy kg/kWh ENERW energy per unit volume of water desalinated kWh/m 3 COSTW cost per unit volume of water desalinated $/m 3 COSTCP cost per unit mass of chemical compound recovered $/kg COSTR cost per unit mass of metal ion or anion recovered $/kg Computed Performance Parameters Formulas and software have been developed for computing deionization performance parameters. The software provides for continuous monitoring of the independent and dependent parameters during the process. The performance data are based on the starting concentration of the feed, the observed concentrations of the effluents, and other dependent and independent process parameters. The concentrations can be determined conductometrically from the expression log C=a log K+b, where C is the concentration, K is the conductivity, and a and b are constants characteristic of each material. A temperature correction to a common temperature is accomplished automatically by the conductivity meter. A list of deionization parameters that are computed and tabulated automatically at the end of each waste-water-treatment run appears in Table 1. They serve as the data base for evaluating the technical and economic merits of the process. Predicted High Efficiency of Deionization in the ELDYN Mode When the ELCOR™ process can be made to operate predominantly in the ELDYN mode, by substantially increasing the centrifugal force, the energy efficiency, rate of deionization, and cost-effectiveness will rival those of any other process. Consequently, a system design and operational features anticipated for the ELDYN mode can be incorporated into the ELCOR™ process disclosed in the Hanak patent. The ultimate goal will be to develop the most efficient and cost-effective process for the remediation of water resources which have been adversely affected by environmental pollution—including toxic wastes and radionuclides. The process will be also equally suitable for the treatment of water containing high levels of naturally occurring dissolved solids such as deep-well or brackish water. The basis for the predicted high efficiency of deionization is as follows. First of all, there is a set quantity of energy associated with the removal of a solute from the feed solution, which is equivalent for all demineralization processes. Hence, this energy will not be considered in the comparison of the ELCOR™ process with other processes. For the ELCOR™ process operating in the electrolytic and electrostatic modes, it has been demonstrated that the energy efficiency is equal to or exceeds those of reverse osmosis (RO) and of electrodialysis (ED), not taking into account the energy required to run the centrifuge. (For large systems, centrifugation is estimated to be a small fraction of the total energy.) The energy expended in the electrolytic mode is mainly the sum of the resistive loss in the electrolyte, I 2 R, where I is the electric current and R is the electrical resistance of the process liquid, plus the energy consumed by the electroplating and stripping operations. In the electrostatic mode it is again the I 2 R loss plus the energy consumed by the capacitive charging and discharging. The results also indicate that the electrostatic mode is more energy-efficient than the electrolytic mode. In the ELDYN mode at steady state, when additional charging is no longer occurring, the sole source of expended energy is the I 2 R component (again ignoring centrifugation). The ions arriving at the electrodes are simply balanced by those leaving the electrodes by the sliding action due to the centrifugal force. Thus, in the absence of the electrochemical components of energy loss, the process is more efficient in the ELDYN mode and also more efficient than RO or ED. Operating Procedure for Deionization in the ELDYN Mode The existing operating procedure used in the electrostatic mode employs constant current, which is an independent parameter in the Hanak patent. In that method, switching of polarity occurs when the limiting voltage is reached. A new, improved procedure employs constant voltage as an independent parameter. The process current is now a parameter that is dependent directly on the electric field and indirectly on the centrifugal force. As stated above, it is anticipated that in the ELDYN mode the current will saturate at a constant level proportional to the electric field and the centrifugal force, in addition to the ionic concentration in the feed. The software for process control and for evaluation requires appropriate modifications to accommodate this change. As detailed in the Section entitled “Example” the data in FIG. 6 indicate that in the first part of each pulse, at lower voltage, charging of the electrodes is predominantly taking place, meaning that the electrostatic mode prevails. In the second part of the pulse, at higher voltage, it is clear that the ELDYN mode predominates, judging from the emergence of extensive concentration. This sequence of occurrence of the electrostatic and the ELDYN modes suggests that the HSA electrodes need to be at least partially populated by ionic species in order for significant rate of sliding of the ionic sheath to take place. The logic of this conclusion follows from the fact that the initially thin ionic sheath is more strongly attracted to the oppositely charged electrode surface than the subsequent thicker sheath. In the latter, additional ionic species can slide with relative ease over ions of the same polarity which are attracted more strongly to the electrode surface. The partial population of the electrode surface occurs automatically upon the application of voltage to discharged electrodes; requiring no additional provision for the ELDYN mode to occur. A need for periodic, infrequent change in polarity of the electrodes is anticipated in order to clean the electrodes possibly soiled by microscopic solid matter, attracted to the surface. The intervals between such polarity reversal might be hours, days or weeks, if at all, most likely dependent on the quality of the feed liquid. It should be pointed out that operation at a constant voltage is used in the capacitive deionization taught by Joseph Farmer in prior art [Ref 3]. However, in that process the current is not constant; it rises to a high value upon initial application of the voltage, and decreases asymptotically to a very low value with time, whereupon the electrodes must be discharged and regenerated. With the decrease of current the rate of deionization also decreases. As already stated, in the ELCOR™ process using the ELDYN mode a high, constant level of current persists, with no need to discharge the electrodes or switch polarity except for optional, occasional cleaning. Thus, the performance characteristics of the instant invention are superior to those of the Farmer patent. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a dynamic EG deionization of 0.01 M H 2 SO 4 in the electrostatic mode utilizing reversible high-surface-area electrodes. Other conditions are: process current=35 mA; V max. =1.0 Volt; diluent flow rate=1.85 mL/min; concentrate flow rate=1.85 mL/min. (FIG. 1 is the same as FIG. 10 in the Hanak patent). FIG. 2 is a proposed model of the electrode-solution, double-layer region (from Reference 4 ). IHP and OHP are the ‘inner’ and ‘outer’ Helmholtz planes at distances x 1 and x 2 from the electrode. FIG. 3 is a dynamic EG deionization of 0.01 M CaCl 2 in the electrostatic mode utilizing reversible high-surface-area electrodes. Other conditions are: process current=35 mA; maximum process voltage (V max. )=1.0 Volt; diluent flow rate=1.85 mL/min; concentrate flow rate=1.85 mL/min. (FIG. 3 is the same as FIG. 9 in the Hanak patent). FIG. 4 is a frontal projection of the ELCOR™ deionization device 110 of the Hanak patent, viewed in the direction perpendicular to the end plate of the modules and parallel to its axis. FIG. 4 is analogous to FIG. 2C in the Hanak patent, with an added feature of having an array of dot or rod insulating spacers arranged in a close-packed hexagonal pattern to maintain even spacing of the electrodes. FIG. 5, related to FIG. 4, utilizes a zonal centrifuge design [Ref. 7] for the deionization chamber, which in this case is divided into three equivalent zones. FIG. 6 shows graphical data for the first successful experiment of the ELCOR™ process operating in the electrostatic mode. The data show clearly the existence of both the electrostatic and the ELDYN modes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The ELCOR™ equipment used for deionization in the ELDYN mode may be identical to that used in the electrostatic mode described in the Hanak patent. For optimum performance the equipment may incorporate one or more of the following enhancements. Reduction of the Electrode Spacing. Spacing between the electrodes is discussed in the Hanak patent. In the electrostatic mode periodic reversal of polarity is required when maximum voltage is reached. Upon polarity reversal the ion sheath, which is attracted to the electrode during charging, is released and starts diffusing away from the electrode and can mix partially with the depleted liquid. In order to prevent substantial mixing of the concentrate and the diluent it is important to provide sufficient electrode spacing and also to employ sufficiently high centrifugal force to sweep the ion sheath and the depleted liquid rapidly into their respective exhaust ports. In the ELDYN mode it is anticipated that the process will operate at a steady state at a constant voltage and essentially at constant current, without polarity switching, except for possible occasional cleaning of the electrodes. In the absence of frequent polarity reversals, the ion sheath remains attracted close to the electrode and will not diffuse away from the electrodes to cause mixing of the concentrated solution and the diluent. Consequently, the spacing between the electrodes may be made smaller than in the electrostatic mode, thereby decreasing the transit time of the ions and increasing the performance parameters. The minimum spacing could be estimated from the thickness of the diffuse layers at the surface of the electrodes and from the ratio of the diluent and the concentrate flow rates. Thus, if the thickness of each diffuse layer is 1 nm and said ratio is 20, then the minimum cathode to anode spacing would be 42 nm. In practice, considerably larger spacing would be used to allow for sufficiently high flow rates. While there is no apparent limit for maximum spacing, in practice it would be dictated by practical levels of deionization, concentration and throughput, which decrease with increasing spacing. A practical, minimum spacing and means of achieving it could be that used in supercapacitors as described below. Use of Insulating Spacers in between the Electrodes Electrode spacers can be used in the form of insulating dots to keep the electrodes apart to help decrease the electrode spacing without risking the electrodes touching each other and to maintain uniform spacing. A method of forming such dots on the surface of supercapacitor electrodes and their use in supercapacitor devices is described by Tong et al. [Ref. 5 and 6]. The dots consist of organic epoxide polymer, about 25 to 31 μm (micrometers) in height and printed over a square grid about 1 mm apart. The preferred configuration of insulating dot or rod electrode spacers is shown in FIG. 4, which is a frontal projection of the ELCOR™ deionization device 110 of the Hanak patent, viewed in the direction perpendicular to the end plate of the modules and parallel to its axis. FIG. 4 is analogous to FIG. 2C in the Hanak patent, with two added features. One of them is that the spacer 192 is inclined away from the direction of rotation with respect to the radial direction. The other feature is that of having an array of dot or rod insulating spacers arranged in a close-packed hexagonal pattern to maintain even spacing between the electrodes. While such narrow electrode spacing in the ELCOR™ module is possible, it appears that spacing of 0.005 cm to 3.0 cm would be more practical, possibly using spacers at the lower end of the range of separation. It is anticipated that use of spacers might interfere with laminar flow of the concentrate and the diluent fluids and thereby give rise to their mixing. Another expected problem with the spacers is possible increased charge leakage caused by partially electrically conducting films formed on the spacers over a period of time. Examples of deionization occurring partially in the ELDYN mode, using the Electrogravitation process were discussed above, and were shown in FIGS. 1 and 3. Another example is described next. Increase in Centrifugal Force. As discussed above, an increase in centrifugal force promotes the ELDYN mode and with it a substantial improvement in the performance parameters of the process. Consequently, the rate of rotation of the ELCOR™ module should be increased to as high a level as is mechanically and economically practical. There appears to be no fundamental limit to the rotational speed or the level of centrifugal force except for the endurance of the mechanical systems, such as the drive system, rotary union, and module components which may be affected by the strength of materials, friction and the like. With substantially enhanced rate of deionization with increasing centrifugal force, it is predicted that the size of the ELCOR™ module may be decreased considerably to achieve equivalent performance, thereby possibly reducing the capital and operational costs of the process. The centrifugal force, generated by the spinning of the rotor and directed away from the axis, is measured in multiples of the Earth's gravitational force and is known as the “relative centrifugal field (r.c.f.) or ‘G force’. Centrifugation, which is a term used for the separation of a large variety of materials, mostly consisting of more than one phase, has been in use for well over 100 years [7]. Centrifugation has also been applied to the separation of materials in single phase, including gases [8] and liquids. Remarkable progress in the development of advanced centrifuge rotors occurred during World War II, in conjunction with the separation or enrichment of nuclear isotopes, notably of uranium 234 and of plutonium [8]. The advent of zonal centrifuges and the density-gradient method has facilitated the mass separation of subcellular particles including viruses [9]. Centrifuges of special interest in the instant invention are the zonal centrifuges designed for a continuous operation, in which the liquid to be processed is continuously fed in and the separated materials are continuously removed. They are cylindrical rotary devices, having a hollow annular chamber, equipped with two or more radial walls so as to form two or more separate chambers. This construction facilitates maintaining the feed liquid essentially at rest with the rotor, except for the effects due to the Coriolis force and to pumping the liquids into and out of the device. The first zonal centrifuge was built by N. G. Anderson at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where over 50 different zonal centrifuge rotors have been developed and evaluated [9]. Seven zonal rotor series for different applications have been developed, ranging from low speed of 1000 RPM to ultra high speeds of up to 150,000 RPM. The r.c.f. developed in these rotors ranged from 152 to 994,000 G. These rotors were relatively small devices, ranging in capacity from less than 100 milliliters up to 4000 milliliters. In these devices the capacity varies approximately inversely with the speed of rotation and r.c.f. At very high speeds and r.c.f. balancing of the zonal rotors is extremely important. That is the main reason for dividing the chamber into two or more equivalent zones (usually an even number) to achieve balance. The ELCOR™ device in the Hanak patent also makes use of the zonal centrifuge design, however, having only a single zone. This design is adequate for low r.c.f. and/or with relatively small rotor radius. As the r.c.f. is increased, the multi-zonal centrifuge design becomes increasingly desirable. The multi-zonal design is also preferred as the outer radius is increased. In this case the multi-zonal design facilitates shortening the path that the concentrated and depleted liquids must travel to reach the exhaust ports. An example of a multi-zonal ELCOR™ cell or a series of cells is shown in FIG. 5 in which each cell is divided into 3 equivalent zones, each subtending an angle of 120°. This device contains three sets of insulating spacers 192 , inlet and outlet ports 154 , 158 , and 160 , each item located 120 degrees from its similar items. In this device the conduits for the feed, the concentrated solution and the depleted liquid are mutually interconnected internally. Thus, the three zones are defined by the insulating spacers 192 a , 192 b , and 192 c . These spacers are shown inclined away from the direction of rotation with respect to the radial direction, which along with the inner and outer annular insulating spacers 150 and 152 prevent the liquids therein from incursion into the neighboring zones. Each zone is also equipped with three sets of feed liquid inlets 160 a,b,c , concentrated solution outlets 154 a,b,c , and depleted liquid outlets 158 a,b,c . Not shown are internal conduits interconnecting each set of outlets prior to the discharge of the respective outflow liquids. Also shown in FIG. 5 is an array of optional insulating dot or rod electrode spacers 194 as in FIG. 4 . In the multi-zonal ELCOR™ design it is preferable to combine the spacers 192 a,b,c with the annular insulating inner spacers 150 and the annular insulating outer spacers 152 into a single, integrated spacer, thereby facilitating its fabrication, installation and stability. As in the Hanak patent said integrated spacer can be fabricated of neoprene rubber. For greater rigidity, especially at higher rotational speeds and r.c.f., said spacer may be made of a polymer such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), known for its electrical insulating properties and its resistance to many chemicals and water. The integrated spacers may be held in place either by compression or by thin layers of an adhesive or both. The feed conduits 160 a,b,c may also be internally connected to a common feed conduit or they may be connected to separate conduits in the rotary union discussed in the Hanak patent. New Potential Applications. The multi-zonal design of the ELCOR™ will facilitate the use of high r.f.c. and/or rotors having large diameters. This design, along with the ELDYN mode will facilitate new applications. Heretofore only the density gradient medium, which provides varying density along a column of varying r.c.f. has been available to assist with the separation of different species in combination with high centrifugal force. In the case of the ELCOR™ process a new, powerful assistance for enhanced separation of a variety of biological and chemical species will be afforded by the use of electric field. EXAMPLE Deionization of 0.01 molar NaNO 3 in the ELCOR™ Device. The ELCOR™ process operating in the ELDYN mode is currently under development. The first successful result is reported next. The ELCOR™ module in this test was of the type depicted in FIGS. 2A, 2 B, 2 C, 2 D 1 B and 2 D 2 appearing in the Hanak patent. It utilized 3 cells, equipped with 4 annular, high-surface-area (HSA) supercapacitor electrodes, connected in electrical series, but with liquid flow in parallel. The ELCOR™ device used external pumps for the concentrate and the diluent; gravity flow was used for the feed. The test conditions were as follows. The rate of rotation was 1350 RPM which corresponds to a r.f.c. of 173 G (i. e., 173 times the force of gravity) at a mean radius of 8.51 cm. The flow rates of the diluent and of the concentrate were 32.7 and 86.8 mL/min, respectively, and the feed rate was 119.5 mL/min. The apparent surface area of one side of each HSA electrode was 321 cm 2 . The spacing between each pair of electrodes was about 0.288 cm. The procedure used for the application of electric power was the one used in the electrostatic mode, namely, one of constant current and switching of polarity when limiting voltage is reached, the same as in the electrogravitational (EG) experiments of FIGS. 1 and 3. In this experiment the voltage limit and the average process current were set at 1.0 Volt and 130 mA, respectively. The data for this experiment are shown in FIG. 6 . Comparison of FIG. 6 with FIGS. 1 and 3 reveal significant differences. Whereas in FIGS. 1 and 3 the DSO and ONH were essentially symmetrical with respect to the 100% feed line, an entirely different behavior occured in FIG. 6 . In the first part of each new pulse, in the range of low voltage, the DSO increases from about 100% to a maximum (i.e., it reaches the minimum concentration) while the ONH decreases to a minimum, (i.e., it also goes through a minimum concentration. As the DSO passes the maximum value, the ONH starts increasing with increasing voltage at a fast rate, reaching a maximum (i.e., it reaches maximum concentration) at the point of the switching of polarity. The DSO reaches its minimum value (i.e., also its maximum concentration at the same point. Thus, in the ELCOR™ operation, the DSO and the ONH curves are asymmetrical as opposed to the EG operation. FIG. 6 has additional set of two curves shown. One curve is DIL FEF and the other is CONC FEF, which are the Faradaic efficiencies for the diluent and the concentrate, respectively. The data indicate that the maxima in the diluent coincide with the minima in the concentrate and vice versa. Significantly, the first maximum in the CONC FEF reached a value of 64%, exceeding by 20% the highest value of 44% shown in FIG. 8 of the Hanak patent for the deionization of copper sulfate by the ELCOR™ process in the electrolytic mode. The 64% value also exceeds any CONC FEF values observed in the electrostatic mode in the EG process. Thus, the predicted higher performance has been substantiated. Other features in FIG. 6, following the first pulse, are nearly equivalent DSO and DIL FEF for pulses 2 , 3 , 4 , and 6 , while pulse 5 is substantially different, apparently having undergone an anomalous event. By comparison, the values of ONH and CONC FEF for the same pulses show variation. The most likely reason is that a leak had occurred in the rotary union, admixing varying amounts of the feed liquid into the concentrate. A proposed explanation to the data in FIG. 6 is that in the first part of each pulse, at lower voltage, charging of the electrodes is predominantly taking place, meaning that the electrostatic mode prevails. In the second part of the pulse, at higher voltage, it is clear that the ELDYN mode predominates. This sequence of the occurrence of the electrostatic and the ELDYN modes suggests that the HSA electrodes should be at least partially populated by the ionic species in order for a significant rate of the sliding of the diffuse layer to occur. This partial population occurs automatically upon the application of voltage to discharged electrodes. The reason that a “pure” ELDYN mode is not observed is that the current used was higher than that allowed by the magnitude of the centrifugal force. The average values of DSO and ONH calculated for the final pulse, number 6 , were 87.1% and 106.8%, respectively, compared with the relative concentration for the feed of 100%. Thus, enhancement and deionization are approximately inversely proportional to the flow rates. The average Faradaic efficiencies for the diluent and the concentrate were 17.5 and 24.5%, for an average FEF of 21.0%. The two values should be the same as the average; in fact the difference is relatively small. Although the process in this example has not been optimized, the current density was about 74% higher than that in an EG cell operating in partially electrostatic and partially ELDYN mode, thereby providing another proof of concept. REFERENCES 1. Oren, Y., and Soffer, A., “Electrochemical Parametric Pumping,” J. Electrochem. Soc . 125, 869-875 (1978). 2. Oren, Y., and Soffer, A., “Water Desalting by Means of Electrochemical Parametric Pumping. I. The Equilibrium Properties of a Batch Unit Cell,” J. Applied Electrochem . 13, 473-487 (1983). 3. Joseph Farmer, “Method and Apparatus for Capacitive Deionization, Electrochemical Purification, and Regeneration of Electrodes,” U.S. Pat. No.5,425,858, Jun. 20, 1995. 4. Bard, A. J. and Faulkner, L. R., Electrochemical Methods, Fundamentals and Applications , John Wiley & Sons, New York (1980). 5. Tong, Robert, et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,384,685, Jan. 24, 1995. 6. Tong, Robert R., et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,464,453, Nov. 7, 1995. 7. Hsien-Wen Hsu, Separations by Centrifugal Phenomena, in Techniques of Chemistry, Volume XVI, Edmond S Perry, editor, A John Wiley & Sons, New York, Chichester, Brisbane, Toronto, 1981. 8. H. D. Smyth, Atomic Energy for Military Purposes , Princeton University Press, Princeton, N.J., (1945). 9. N. G. Anderson, Quarterly Review of Biophysics , 1, [3], 217 (1968).
An apparatus and method for electrocoriolysis, the separation of ionic substances from liquids in the electrodynamic mode. The method maximizes centrifugal forces on a fluid contained in a chamber having oppositely polarized electrodes. A feed fluid is fed into the chamber. Spacing of the electrodes can be minimized for enhancement of the process. A constant voltage can be applied. Centrifugal force and the electric potential across the chamber create enhanced separation. Concentrated solution can be removed from a location in the chamber and depleted solution from another location.
2
This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 6,681, filed Jan. 26, 1979, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 864,389, filed Dec. 27, 1977, now abandoned, and which is a continuation of now abandoned application Ser. No. 749,881, filed Dec. 13, 1976. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention pertains to rare earth phosphor admixtures utilizing thulium-activated lanthanum or gadolinium oxyhalide phosphor material to increase the relative speed and resolution of an x-ray image compared with conventional phosphors as well as reduce the still serious crossover problem now experienced with conventional phosphors. In recently issued U.S. Pat. No. 3,795,814, there is described and claimed lanthanum and gadolinium oxyhalide phosphors activated with thulium as efficient materials to convert x-radiation to visible light. Various image converter devices utilizing said luminescent materials are also described for conversion of the x-rays to blue emission. A particular x-ray intensifying screen is disclosed for use with photographic film which is sensitive to the "blue-near ultraviolet" radiation being emitted by said phosphors. A more recently issued U.S. Pat. No. 4,070,583 discloses a different x-ray intensifying screen which can be subject to poor resolution and a blurred image produced from what is termed a "crossover" problem. Said x-ray screen construction utilizes a double emulsion photographic film with a pair of phosphor layers which are oriented so that light emitted from each phosphor layer can expose both emulsion layers. The crossover problem arises from light passage entirely through the next adjacent emulsion layer for exposure of the more remote emulsion layer. For the x-ray screen construction described therein, a blue-sensitive photographic film is employed together with a particular rare-earth oxyhalide phosphor material which is coactivated with terbium and thulium to reduce the crossover problem effects. The improvement is attributable primarily to a greater UV emission of said phosphor material since UV emission is absorbed to a higher degree than visible light by the silver halide particles in the next adjacent emulsion layer. On the other hand, a more severe crossover problem is encountered when green sensitive photographic film is customarily employed with known La 2 O 2 S:Tb and Gd 2 O 2 S:Tb phosphor admixtures in this type x-ray screen construction. Such combination has been found to exhibit poorer resolution along with a blurred photographic image since the green emission from said phosphor admixtures is not absorbed by the next adjacent phosphor layer to the same degree as blue emission. Thus, while the known phosphor admixture is selected for light emission in a spectral region where the green sensitive photographic film is most responsive, such selection produces a more serious crossover problem. The seriousness and extent of said crossover and image resolution or sharpness problems in x-ray screens utilizing a double emulsion type green sensitive photographic film is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,130,428 along with means said to lessen both undesirable effects. A green light emitting screen is therein described for use with a particular silver halide emulsion film along with screening and filtering dyes being mentioned that reduce the amount of light crossover from 59% to 44%. Said result is also therein compared with a 51% light crossover said to exist for blue light emitting calcium tungstate screens when used with a blue base commercial photographic film. The phosphor materials selected for use in said improved x-ray screens are various rare earth oxychloride and oxysulfide phosphors activated with various rare earth elements including terbium and thulium with a preferred phosphor being a mixture of yttrium oxysulfide activated with terbium or terbium and dysprosium that is mixed with gadolinium or lanthanum or lutetium oxysulfide activated with terbium or dysprosium. Accordingly, it is an important object of the present invention to provide a rare earth phosphor admixture having better resolution capabilities than presently used phosphor materials for a particular x-ray screen construction employing green-sensitive photographic film. It is another object of the present invention to provide further improved radiographic screens employing green-sensitive photographic film by means of having associated optical filtering media in said construction. Still another important objective of the present invention is to provide a rare earth phosphor mixture having better image resolution capability and less crossover problem when used with blue-sensitive photographic film as well as green-sensitive photographic film. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An improved phosphor admixture is provided for use in x-ray screens of the multilayer type construction above described which achieves considerable reduction in light crossover as well as improved image resolution and which does so with photographic film particularly sensitive to light at wavelengths up to about 570 nanometers wavelength. That such improvement can be obtained with photographic film spectrally sensitized in either the blue color region or green color region is surprising upon considering the well accepted practice heretofore, of matching the emission color of the phosphor material selected to the spectral color sensitivity of the associated photographic film. Specifically, a photographic film particularly sensitive to light in the blue color region (320-450 nanometer wavelength range) was generally employed with phosphor materials exhibiting blue color emission while a photographic film sensitive to light in the green color region (450-570 nanometer wavelength range) was generally selected for use with phosphor materials exhibiting green color emission. In accordance with the present invention, however, the phosphor admixture comprises a particular first phosphor which emits efficiently in the blue and green color spectral region in combination with a particular second phosphor which emits efficiently in the near ultraviolet-blue color spectral region to achieve comparable improvements with either blue color sensitive or green color sensitive photographic film. The first phosphor consists of polyhedral shaped terbium activated gadolinium oxysulfide crystals having an average particle size in the range of approximately 6 to about 20 microns diameter. A terbium activator level from about 0.1 to about 5.0 mole percent per mole of said first phosphor material is suitable for use in the phosphor admixture if the associated photographic film is particularly sensitive to light in the green color region whereas a lower terbium activator level from about 0.1 to about 0.5 mole percent is selected for use with a photographic film particularly sensitive to light in the blue color region. The second phosphor constituent in the present phosphor admixture consists of plate-like crystals of thulium activated rare earth oxyhalide phosphor having the general formula: LnOX:Tm.sup.3+ wherein Ln is one or more of La and Gd, X is one or more of Cl and Br, and Tm is present as an activator ion from about 0.05 to about 1 mole percent, and with said phosphor crystals having an average particle size in the range from approximately 2 to about 12 microns. The improvement in resolution capability or image sharpness according to the present invention is attributable to the shape and size of the phosphor particles in the phosphor combination. As will be more fully explained in connection with the hereinafter described preferred embodiments, the specific phosphor admixture herein employed produces a shorter effective light path through the individual phosphor layers than now occurs with the phosphor materials in present use. For example, a conventional blue color emitting phosphor layer of LaOBr:Tm now being used with blue color sensitive photographic film produces significant light scattering with resultant image blurring due to the plate-like phosphor crystals being aligned parallel to the major film axis. The relatively high refractive index (about 2.0) of said phosphor material contributes to light scattering in the film direction whereby less light reaches the film from remotely located phosphor particles for increased quantum noise or mottle. An even more severe quantum noise problem exists for the conventional terbium activated lanthanum and gadolinium oxysulfide phosphor admixtures now being employed with green color sensitive photographic film despite a lower refractive index (about 1.7) and polyhedral crystalline shape of the phosphor particles. The plate-like LaOX:Tm phosphor particles in the present phosphor admixture are more randomly oriented in the phosphor layers due to physical presence of the generally larger size and polyhedral shaped particles of Gd 2 O 2 S:Tb phosphor. A larger fraction of said plate-like phosphor particles are thereby aligned in a direction towards the film axis which "pipes" the light in this direction for a shorter light path. Additionally, the lower refractive index of the adjoining polyhedral Gd 2 O 2 S:Tb phosphor particles facilitates light passage through said material to further reduce the light path distance to the photographic film. A more effective use is made of the individual phosphor materials in this manner so that less light is scattered from phosphor particles more remotely located from the photographic film. In so doing, it can be noted that the optical and physical properties, including size and shape of the phosphor particles, in the present phosphor admixture contribute in achieving the desired improvement. The further improvement derived in a considerable reduction of the crossover problem with the present phosphor admixture is also attributable to cooperation between the particular phosphor components being employed. As has been above indicated, the conventional green color emitting phosphor materials now being employed with green color sensitive photographic film suffer considerable light crossover. Utilization of the present phosphor admixture with green color sensitive photographic can reduce light crossover by as much as 50% or even greater due to the negligible contribution of green color emission by the LaOX:Tm phosphor component in said admixture. Surprisingly, the general equivalency in film speed for the present phosphor admixture as compared with LaOBr:Tm when used with blue color sensitive photographic film also produces considerably less light crossover than has been above indicated for conventional blue color systems. That film speeds comparable to or greater than film speeds obtained with conventional phosphor materials now used with both blue color sensitive and green color sensitive photographic film are also possible with the present phosphor admixture represents still another unexpected advantage upon considering the greater difficulty normally experienced in matching the spectral color sensitivity of a photographic film when phosphors having different color emission are involved. An especially preferred rare earth phosphor admixture of the present invention utilizes approximately 20-80 parts by weight of the above defined terbium activated gadolinium oxysulfide phosphor with approximately 20-80 parts by weight of the above defined thulium activated rare earth oxyhalide phosphor. An approximately equal parts by weight of said constituents in the phosphor admixture is preferred for use with a photographic film which is particularly sensitive to light in the green color region. Fur use with photographic film which is particularly sensitive to light in the blue color region, it is preferred that the associated phosphor admixture contain less parts by weight of the terbium activated phosphor constituent than parts by weight of the other phosphor constituent. An important factor in the improvements found, as above indicated, resides in the relatively finer particle size of the LaOBr:Tm phosphor constituent. Said phosphor constituent comprises well-formed plate-like crystals having a size and uniformity to avoid optical scattering which produces a blurred image when the phosphor particles are below a certain size or if the phosphor particles are irregular in shape. The most suitable phosphor size range from a 8 mil thick radiographic screen is not less than about 2 microns in particle size and not more than about 12 microns particle size. In the particular x-ray screen construction of the present invention, the foregoing phosphor admixtures are employed in the pair of phosphor layers which are positioned on each side of a double emulsion photographic film to form a multi-layer sandwich configuration. The preferred embodiment of said multi-layer x-ray screen construction further includes utilization of a UV absorption dye in the otherwise transparent support layer of the photographic film member to cooperate with the present phosphor material in reducing the amount of emitted radiation which can cross over to the more remote emulsion layer. Crossover causes widening of images and blurring due to lack of alignment or registry between the image as formed on the next adjacent emulsion layer when exposed and the crossover image formed on said more remotely disposed emulsion layer. A better understanding of said crossover problem and the improvement provided in accordance with the present invention can be gained from the following detailed description when considered with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a cross section of an improved multi-layer x-ray screen construction which incorporates the present phosphor materials along with a dye system to absorb ultraviolet light which ordinarily crosses over from the silver halide emulsion layer being exposed to the other emulsion layer, and FIG. 2 is a more detailed cross-sectional view depicting the light path through an individual phosphor layer produced in accordance with the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to FIG. 1, a multi-layer x-ray screen construction is depicted in cross section having a double emulsion photographic film 9 which has an optically transparent polyester base 10 incorporating a dye system to absorb the ultraviolet and light emission which ordinarily crosses over from one of the silver halide emulsion layers to the other, 11a to 11b, and vice versa. As previously indicated, such emission crossover will cause the widening of images and blurring due to the lack of alignment or registry between the image as formed on the particular emulsion layer being exposed and the more remote emulsion layer receiving the crossover image. This is illustrated by the crossover rays passing from emulsion layer 11a to 11b in the depicted embodiment. As will be appreciated, there is an enlarged image on the emulsion layer 11b which will be read as a blurring effect after the film is developed. Said crossover problem is minimized in accordance with the present invention for green photographic film embodiments by reducing the amount of green emission from the phosphor admixture since the thulium-activated lanthanum and/or gadolinium oxyhalide constituent thereof emits primarily in the UV and blue region of the spectrum. Accordingly, the crossover problem is ameliorated in said green film embodiments with the sacrifice of some green emission although the efficient blue emission of said thulium-activated phosphor constituent provides exposure of the next adjacent green sensitive emulsion layer with greater linear speed than is obtained with the terbium-activated rare earth phosphor constituent in the present phosphor admixture. A suitable UV dye demonstrating the desired coaction with the present phosphor admixture can be Cyasorb (2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone) which is available from American Cyanamid Company but it is expected that 1,3,5-trizaine could also be substituted. As further shown in said accompanying drawing, the preferred x-ray screen construction further includes flexible backing 5 which supports a pair of reflecting layers 6 positioned adjacent the exteriormost major surfaces of the pair of phosphor layers 7. In said preferred construction, the location of said reflecting layers could aggravate the crossover problem since crossover rays passing from one emulsion layer and through the transparent support layer 10 of the double emulsion photographic film 9 could also be reflected back to the emulsion layer being exposed for additional image blurring. Further transparent layers 8 are utilized in the preferred x-ray screen embodiment to resist mechanical abrasion of the photographic film and/or phosphor layers during physical movement therebetween when an exposed film is removed for development and a new film inserted for additional use of said assembly. Various radiographic screens having the above construction were prepared by dispersing one or more of the phosphor materials reported in Table I on the following page in a suitable resin binder and then casting the screens on a supporting member according to conventional techniques well known in the art. The speed of said screens was measured at 80 KVp with 1 inch aluminum filtration while resolution measurements were carried out at 50 KVp with 1/8 inch aluminum filtration. The reported measurements provide comparison between the present phosphor admixtures and a commercial admixture having 40% by weight La 2 O 2 S:Tb with 60% by weight Gd 2 O 2 S:Tb. Performance of the individual constituents in the commercial admixture are also reported. TABLE I______________________________________ Rel-Screen Screen(mils) ative Res. QuantumComposition Thickness Speed LP/mm. Mottle______________________________________40% La.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb, 14 mil 8.0 5.6 most60% Gd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:TbLaOBr .003Tm 10 mil 8.1 7.0 leastLa.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb 8 mil 4.3 5.8 least50% La.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb, 8 mil 6.1 7.0 least50% LaOBr .003Tm40% La.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb, 14 mil 8.0 5.6 most60% Gd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb50% LaOBr .003Tm, 8 mil 7.0 7.0 medium50% Gd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb50% LaOBr .003Tm, 12 mil 8.4 -- medium50% Gd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb50% LaOBr .003Tm, 16 mil 8.9 -- medium50% Gd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:TbGd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb 8 mil 6.8 5.6 mostGd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb 12 mil 7.8 -- most______________________________________ As can be noted from the preceding measurements, the present phosphor admixtures demonstrate both greater speed and resolution capability than is obtained with commercial screens or the individual phosphor constituents employed therein. The preferred admixtures of the present invention thereby provide greater linear speed response over the entire medical diagnostic KVp range than is provided with the conventional green film systems. Comparable film speed and quantum mottle measurements were made with the same above type radiographic screen construction and using some of the same phosphor materials but substituting a photographic film particularly sensitive to light in the blue color region. The test measurements were conducted with Kodak X-Omat R blue sensitive film at exposures of 80 KVp intensity and the results are reported in Table II below for a phosphor layer or screen thickness of approximately 5.9 mils thickness. TABLE II______________________________________Screen Relative Resolution QuantumComposition Speed (LP/mm) Mottle______________________________________LaOBr:Tm 6.0 7.0 medium50% LaOBr:Tm 5.0 7.0 least50% Gd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:TbGd.sub.2 O.sub.2 S:Tb 2.5 5.6 most______________________________________ It can be noted from said Table II measurements that the present phosphor admixtures provide both greater speed and resolution than Gd 2 O 2 S and is comparable to LaOBr:Tm when blue sensitive photographic film is employed. As also previously pointed out, the reduction in quantum mottle experienced with the present phosphor admixture, and which is indicative of reduced light crossover attributable to the beneficial light "piping" effect being obtained represents an improvement over both conventional phosphors illustrated. In FIG. 2, there is shown a more detailed illustration of an individual phosphor layer 7 produced in accordance with the present invention along with an associated photographic emulsion layer 11a and a transparent layer 8, all as depicted in the FIG. 1 screen construction. Accordingly, the polyhedral shaped Gd 2 O 2 S phosphor particles 12 are uniformly distributed in said phosphor layer 11a to obstruct a parallel alignment of the plate-like LaOBr:Tm phosphor particles 13 also dispersed in said phosphor admixture. It can be noted that a substantial portion of said LaOBr:Tm phosphor particles are thereby oriented with the major crystalline axis being aligned toward said photographic emulsion layer 11a rather than being aligned parallel to said member. As a result, the light path 14 through said phosphor layer proceeds as shown with a shorter path length than would be provided by a parallel alignment of the LaOBr:Tm phosphor particles. It will be apparent from the foregoing description that novel x-ray screen device has been disclosed which exhibits particular advantages when employed with both blue sensitive and green sensitive photographic film. It should also be appreciated from the foregoing description that luminescent materials of the present invention can be prepared having slightly modified compositions than above specifically disclosed without sacrificing the disclosed performance advantages. For example, a minor substitution of fluoride ion for chloride or bromide ion in the thulium-activated oxyhalide phosphor constituent should not materially lower these advantages. It is intended to limit the present invention, therefore, only by the scope of the following claims.
Various rare earth phosphor admixtures are described utilizing thulium-activated oxyhalides of lanthanum and/or gadolinium to provide improved performance in x-ray image converter devices. These phosphor admixtures are used in radiographic screens in combination with either blue sensitive or green sensitive photographic film.
2
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/779,431, filed Mar. 7, 2006. BACKGROUND [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates generally to telecommunications services. More particularly, the present invention relates to capabilities that augment the user experience surrounding, and otherwise enhance the value and usefulness of, various wireless messaging paradigms including, inter alia, Short Message Service (SMS) and Multimedia Message Service (MMS). [0004] 2. Background of the Invention [0005] As the ‘wireless revolution’ continues to march forward the ability of a Service User (SU), for example a user of a wireless device such as a cellular telephone, to manage or control, within a truly ubiquitous cross-carrier environment, the messaging activity with which they wish to participate has grown increasingly more challenging and, as a consequence, substantially in importance. [0006] The present invention, a Subscription Manager (SM) capability, facilitates aspects of such management or control. A SM may operate within a centrally-located, full-featured Messaging Inter-Carrier Vendor (MICV) facility. Alternatively, a SM may operate within the environment of a Wireless Carrier (WC), or within the environment of a Service Provider (SP), or within the environment of some other entity. While the discussion below will center on a MICV-based SM it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that other placements are equally applicable and indeed are fully within the scope of the present invention. [0007] A SM allows a SU to efficiently engage in activities or exchanges (including, possibly among other things, the acquisition of information, the receipt of services, the purchase of products, etc.) with one or more SPs by addressing various of the structural impediments that naturally arise under such a model. Various of the structural impediments include: [0008] 1) Limited Resources. A SP may employ a Short Code (SC) as the address to which it would ask users of its service to direct their request messages. While the abbreviated length of a SC (e.g., five digits for a SC administered by Neustar under the Common Short Code [CSC] program) incrementally enhances the experience of a SU (e.g., the SU need remember and enter only a few digits as the destination address of their request message) it also, by definition, constrains the universe of available SCs thereby causing each individual SC to be a limited or scarce resource. A description of a common (i.e., universal) short code environment may be found in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/742,764 entitled “UNIVERSAL SHORT CODE ADMINISTRATION FACILITY.” [0009] 2) Spam. Under normal circumstances unsolicited or undesired messages may be a nuisance to a SU. If those messages also entail a WC per-message delivery charge then they can become significantly more than just an annoyance. [0010] 3) Opt-In/Opt-Out. The procedures surrounding the, in some cases legally-mandated, ability of a SU to opt-in and/or opt-out of, for example, an SP's offering through a single/double/etc.-step process. [0011] 4) Billing. The need to flexibly and dynamically perform a range of billing activities (including, possibly among other things, tasks such as price determination, billing transaction, etc.) represent a substantial challenge. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0012] Embodiments of the present invention provide mechanisms by which a messaging inter-carrier vendor (MICV) provides value added services to both service users (e.g., mobile telephone users) and service providers (e.g., information brokers, vendors, news sources, etc.). [0013] In an embodiment of the invention the MICV is disposed between a plurality of service users and a plurality of service providers and messages sent between these parties are processed by a subscription manager module, or message processing engine. The subscription manager is configured to, among other things, manage short codes, detect undesirable spam messages, operate service user opt-in and opt-out processes, and perform billing functions. [0014] The subscription manager is preferably operable with a service user alone, a service provider alone, and in combination with both the service user and service provider to thereby provide appropriate services to each party depending on the particular circumstances. [0015] These and other features of the embodiments of the present invention along with their attendant advantages will be more fully appreciated upon a reading of the following detailed description in conjunction with the associated drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0016] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic presentation of an exemplary MICV. [0017] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic presentation of an exemplary SM. [0018] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary SM Message Processing Engine (MPE). [0019] FIG. 4 illustrates various of the exchanges or interactions that are supported by aspects of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0020] To better understand the particulars of the present invention consider for a moment the exemplary MICV 100 that is depicted (albeit only partially, at a high-level, and from a logical perspective) in FIG. 1 . The illustrated MICV 100 is disposed between multiple WCs (e.g., WirelessCarrier 1 →WirelessCarrier m ) 101 on one side and multiple SPs (e.g., ServiceProvider 1 →ServiceProvider n ) 102 on the other side and is, in effect, a horizontally and vertically scalable ‘hub.’ Among other things, a MICV facilitates the ubiquitous exchange of messaging traffic (including, inter alia, SMS messages, MMS messages, etc.) between various messaging participants. Messaging participants may include, inter alia, numerous WCs (e.g., WirelessCarrier 1 →WirelessCarrier m in FIG. 1 ), numerous SPs (e.g., ServiceProvider 1 →ServiceProvider n in FIG. 1 ), and others as well. [0021] As noted above the use of a MICV, although not required, provides significant advantages. Reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 7,154,901 entitled “AN INTERMEDIARY NETWORK SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING MESSAGE EXCHANGE BETWEEN WIRELESS NETWORKS,” for a description of a MICV, a summary of various of the services/functions/etc. that are performed by a MICV, and a discussion of the numerous advantages that arise from same. The subject matter of this patent is incorporated herein by reference. [0022] One of a MICV's internal components that is depicted in FIG. 1 is a Message Highway (MH) 110 . At a high level, and from a logical perspective as opposed to a physical/implementation perspective, one or more MHs 110 span a MICV 100 and provide a flexible and easily extensible framework that supports, inter alia, all of the internal activities of a MICV 100 including the processing, routing, delivery, etc. of messages. [0023] As depicted in FIG. 1 multiple Message Processors (MPs) 120 , identified as Message Processor a →Message Processor z in the diagram, may be ‘plugged into’ a MH 110 . Through flexible, extensible, and easily updatable workflow chains MPs 120 may perform the full range of functions or services that are necessary to support the processing, routing, delivery, etc. of messages. The functions or services may include, inter alia, message formatting, (numbering plan, routing, etc.) lookup operations, message routing, message conversion, etc. [0024] Through a MICV's administrative framework MPs 120 may be quickly and easily created, configured, ‘attached’ to a MH 110 , managed (e.g., started, quiesced and stopped, reported on, refreshed, etc.), ‘detached’ from a MH 110 , and (if and as appropriate) destroyed. [0025] To further illustrate matters, consider several hypothetical MPs 120 . In one MP 120 the workflow chain might be defined to retrieve from a message the value or the content of various of the fields of the message (perhaps Source Address [e.g., a SC, a Telephone Number (TN), etc.], Destination Address [e.g., a SC, a TN, etc.], Body, etc.) and apply to the retrieved field values a configurable set of edit or validation operations. In another MP 120 the workflow chain might be defined to apply to the retrieved field values a configurable set of formatting operations (e.g., to normalize language or encoding schemes, etc.). In yet another MP 120 the workflow chain might be defined to query a comprehensive routing repository for a message's Source Address and/or the Destination Address to authoritatively determine WC ownership/assignment information so that subsequent message routing operations properly consider worldwide initiatives such as Mobile Number Portability (MNP). [0026] A SM 200 is an example of one particular type of value-add MP. [0027] For purposes of illustration, a hypothetical SM 200 is depicted (albeit only partially, at a high-level, and from a logical perspective) in FIG. 2 . The illustrated SM 200 contains several key components—a MPE 202 , a Billing Interface (BI) 204 , a Database (Db) repository 206 , and an Administrative Engine (AE) 208 . It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that numerous other components are possible within a SM. [0028] An MPE is a flexible, extensible, and dynamically configurable workflow-based message processing facility that will be described more fully below. [0029] A BI provides a single, consolidated interface that a MPE may use to easily reach, inter alia, a credit card clearinghouse, a carrier billing system, a service bureau that provides access to multiple carrier billing systems, etc. [0030] An AE provides a flexible and extensible framework that supports comprehensive administration and management capabilities. Through an AE authorized external entities (e.g., WC representatives, etc.) and authorized internal individuals (e.g., system administrators, etc.) may fully and completely administer or manage a SM and all of the different components of a SM. Possible administration/management activities include, inter alia, configuration (listing of, additions to, changes or updates to, etc.), operational status (starting, quiescing, stopping, refreshing configuration, etc.), reporting (present state, accumulated statistics, etc.). While an interface (e.g., possibly a Web-based facility) and a data exchange (e.g., possibly of XML-based documents) are illustrated in FIG. 2 , it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that numerous other access mechanisms are possible. [0031] An AE may employ an XML paradigm for a portion of its administration and management capabilities. Under such an approach an XML document similar to: [0000] <SMAEAction>  <Type>STATUS</Type>  .  parameters, arguments, etc.  . </SMAEAction> might be utilized. Note that in the above XML document ‘STATUS’ is a particular administration or management action and that other actions such as, inter alia, ‘REPORT,’ ‘QUERY,’ etc. are possible. The above XML document is illustrative only and it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that numerous other paradigms, structures, etc. are possible. [0032] The Db repository 206 that is depicted in FIG. 2 is a logical representation of the possibly multiple physical repositories that may be implemented to support, inter alia, configuration information and transaction information. The physical repositories may be implemented through any combination of conventional Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMSs) such as Oracle, through Object Database Management Systems (ODBMSs), through in-memory Database Management Systems (DBMSs), or through any other equivalent facilities. [0033] Modular, flexible, easily extensible, and dynamically updateable configuration information (for a SM as well as for each of the different components within a SM) is housed in the configuration portion of the Db repository. The configuration information may be administered through the AE (through which a comprehensive audit trail of access, changes, etc. is maintained). The configuration information is available for ‘use’ by the different components within a SM, including, for example, a MPE (to, for example, instruct a MPE as to all manner of its operation including the number of internal threads that it should launch, the processing or throttling rates that it should employ, etc.) [0034] Comprehensive Message Detail Records (MDRs) representing in-flight as well as completed (e.g., SU←→SP) message exchanges are housed in the transaction portion of the Db repository. [0035] The information that is maintained in a Db repository may be used to support a range of real-time and/or off-line reporting capabilities. The information may be combined with other internal data (e.g., perhaps SU definition and/or transaction information as supplied by, inter alia, WCs, SPs, etc.) and/or other external data (e.g., perhaps demographic, psychographic, etc. information from various third-party firms) to yield enhanced value-add reporting. [0036] For purposes of illustration, a hypothetical MPE is depicted (albeit only partially, at a high-level, and from a logical perspective) in FIG. 3 . The illustrated MPE contains several key components—Receivers (Rx 1 →Rx a in the diagram), Queues (Q 1 →Q b and Q 1 →Q d in the diagram), WorkFlows (WorkFlow 1 →WorkFlow c in the diagram), Transmitters (Tx 1 →Tx e in the diagram), and an [0037] Administrator. It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that numerous other components are possible within a MPE. [0038] A dynamically updateable set of one or more Receivers (Rx 1 →Rx a in the diagram) ‘get’ messages from a MICV MH and deposit them on an intermediate or temporary Queue (Q 1 →Q b in the diagram) for subsequent processing. [0039] A dynamically updateable set of one or more Queues (Q 1 →Q b and Q 1 →Q d in the diagram) operate as intermediate or temporary buffers for incoming and outgoing messages. [0040] A dynamically updateable set of one or more WorkFlows (WorkFlow 1 →WorkFlow c in the diagram) remove incoming messages from an intermediate or temporary Queue (Q 1 →Q b in the diagram), perform all of the required operations on the messages, and deposit the processed messages on an intermediate or temporary Queue (Q 1 →Q d in the diagram). The WorkFlow component will be described more fully below. [0041] A dynamically updateable set of one or more Transmitters (Tx 1 →Tx e in the diagram) remove processed messages from an intermediate or temporary Queue (Q 1 →Q d in the diagram) and ‘put’ the messages on a MICV MH. [0042] An Administrator provides a linkage between a SM's AE and all of the different components of a MPE so that a MPE, along with all of the different components of a MPE, may be fully and completely administered or managed. [0043] Through flexible, extensible, and dynamically updatable configuration information a WorkFlow component may be quickly and easily realized to support any number of activities. For purposes of illustration consider each of the activities (Set 1 , Set 2 , . . . Set 5 ) that are depicted in FIG. 4 (these activities are illustrative only and it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that numerous other activities are easily possible). [0044] The activities that are depicted under Set 1 of FIG. 4 represent the interactions that might take place between a SP and a WC in connection with a new campaign from or service offering by the SP. Various campaign or service offering configuration information may flow from the interactions. That information may result in various definitional entries being applied to a Db repository, through for example an interface (Web-based, etc.) or a data exchange, including, inter alia—SC, starting and ending date/time, participating WCs, opt-in rules (e.g., none, single, double, etc.) and opt-out rules (e.g., none, use of the ‘STOP’ keyword, etc.), billing events (e.g., are there per-use, one-time, recurring, etc. charges and if so what are the amounts of the charges), applicable keywords (such as for example ‘START,’ ‘STOP,’ ‘ABOUT,’ etc.) and the degree of allowed keyword misspelling, etc. [0045] The activities that are depicted under Set 2 of FIG. 4 represent the interactions that might take place when a SU 108 sends a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to a SC and, for any number of reasons, it is not possible to deliver the message—e.g., the SC is not available (e.g., no campaign or service offering has been defined for the SC), the SC is not active (e.g., the date/time of the receipt of the message is outside of the starting and ending date/time of a campaign or service offering for the SC), the SU 108 has not subscribed to the service/offering that is associated with the SC, the SU 108 has not completed an opt-in process that is defined as being required for the SC, etc. [0046] In support of Set 2 a WorkFlow component might be defined that, inter alia, retrieves from a message the value or the content of the Destination Address field (for the instant example assume a SC, but alternatively a TN, etc.); confirms through a query to the Db repository that the SC (Destination Address) is not enabled because, e.g., it is not available, not active, that the SU has not completed a required opt-in process, etc.; and optionally returns to the SU 108 one or more response message(s) (for the instant example assume SMS message(s), but alternatively MMS, etc. message(s)). [0047] The activities that are depicted under Set 3 of FIG. 4 represent the interactions that might take place when a SU 108 sends a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to a SC (as used in the instant example, but alternatively a TN, etc.), the message is determined to be deliverable, the message is delivered to a SP, the SP optionally sends a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to the SU 108 , the message is determined to be deliverable, and the message is delivered to the SU 108 . [0048] In support of Set 3 a WorkFlow component might be defined that, inter alia, retrieves from a message the value or the content of the Source Address (for the instant example assume a TN, but alternatively any other message address identifier), the Destination Address (for the instant example assume a SC, but alternatively a TN, etc.), and the Body; performs the necessary and appropriate queries of the Db repository (to, for example, ascertain necessary message routing information); performs the necessary and appropriate inspections of the Body; completes the required processing of the contents of the Body (please see below); and as appropriate and as required delivers a message (either the original message or possibly a newly-constructed message) to the SP. [0049] The processing of the contents of the Body that was described above may entail acting on a keyword that is present in the Body. Keywords that may be found in the Body might include, inter alia, START (e.g., a SU 108 wishes to subscribe), SUBSCRIBE (e.g., a SU 108 wishes to subscribe), STOP (e.g., a SU 108 wishes to unsubscribe), UNSUBSCRIBE (e.g., a SU 108 wishes to unsubscribe), ABOUT or INFO or HELP (e.g., a SU 108 wishes to obtain general information), PRICE (e.g., a SU wishes to obtain pricing information), etc. This catalog of keywords is illustrative only. It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that other keyword actions, other keywords, etc. are easily possible. [0050] A START or SUBSCRIBE keyword may, for example, trigger or launch one or more internal subscription activation activities. The activities may include, inter alia, an opt-in process (involving possibly the exchange of additional SMS, MMS, etc. messages with the SU 108 ; the direction of the SU 108 to a SP's Web site or to some other Web site; etc.) if, for example, the configuration of the SC so requires; if applicable, a price determination event (are there per-use, one-time, recurring, etc. charges and if so what are the amounts of the charges); if applicable, a billing operation; appropriate updates to the contents of a Db repository; the optional dispatch of one or more response messages; etc. [0051] A billing operation may involve passing all of the collected billing information (SU, SC [campaign/service/etc.] details, price, payment mechanism, etc.) to a BI to complete a billing transaction. [0052] The billing transaction may take any number of forms and may involve different external entities (e.g., a WC's billing system, a carrier billing system service bureau, a credit or debit card clearinghouse, etc.). The billing transaction may include, inter alia: [0053] 1) The appearance of a line item charge on the bill or statement that a SU receives from her WC. Exemplary mechanics and logistics associated with this approach are described in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/837,695 entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BILLING AUGMENTATION.” Other ways of completing or performing line item billing are easily implemented by those skilled in the art. [0054] 2) The charging of a credit card or the debiting of a debit card. The particulars (e.g., number, expiration date) of the card that is to be used may, as one example, have been provided by a SU. [0055] Following the successful completion of the billing transaction a message may be dispatched to the SP 102 . The message may contain, possibly among other items, identifying information (e.g., source TN, source WC, the destination address [e.g., SC, TN, etc.]), as well as particulars of the completed billing transaction, etc. [0056] A STOP or UNSUBSCRIBE keyword may, for example, trigger or launch one or more internal subscription cancellation or deactivation activities (with, inter alia, appropriate updates to the contents of a Db repository). Optionally a response message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) may be dispatched to the SU. [0057] An ABOUT, INFO, or HELP keyword may, for example, result in the return to the SU 108 one or more response message(s) (for the instant example assume SMS message(s), but alternatively MMS, etc. message(s)) containing, for example, descriptive or explanatory information. [0058] A PRICE keyword may, for example, result in the return to the SU 108 of one or more response messages (for the instant example assume SMS message(s), but alternatively MMS, etc. message(s)) containing, for example, pricing information. [0059] As noted above, the SP 102 may optionally send a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to the SU. In support of this action the WorkFlow component might be defined to, inter alia, retrieve from a message the value or the content of the Source Address (for the instant example assume a SC, but alternatively a TN, etc.), the Destination Address (for the instant example assume a TN, but alternatively any other message address identifier), and the Body; perform the necessary and appropriate queries of the Db repository (to, for example, ascertain necessary message routing information); perform the necessary and appropriate inspections of the Body; complete the required processing of the contents of the Body (see generally above and below); and as appropriate and as required deliver a message (either the original message or possibly a newly-constructed message) to the SU 108 . [0060] The activities that are depicted under Set 4 of FIG. 4 represent the interactions that might take place when a SP sends a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to a SU 108 and, for any number of reasons, it is not possible to deliver the message—e.g., the SU 108 has not subscribed, the SU 108 has not completed a required opt-in process, the message is identified as being spam, etc. [0061] In support of Set 4 a WorkFlow component might be defined that, inter alia, retrieves from a message the value or the content of the Source Address (for the instant example assume a SC, but alternatively a TN, etc.), the Destination Address (for the instant example assume a TN, but alternatively any other message address identifier) and the Body; confirms through a query to the Db repository that the SC (Source Address) is not available or not active, confirms through a query to the Db repository that the SU (TN) has not completed a required opt-in process, identifies the Body of the message as containing spam, etc.; and optionally returns one or more response message(s) (for the instant example assume SMS message(s), but alternatively MMS, etc. message(s)) to the SP 102 . [0062] The determination that the Body of a message contains spam may result from the application of any number of processes or techniques including, inter alia, static measures (e.g., a search through a configurable list of static keywords), dynamic measures (e.g., heuristics and sliding windows), a combination of static and dynamic measures, etc. It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that numerous other processes or techniques are also possible. [0063] The activities that are depicted under Set 5 of FIG. 4 represent the interactions that might take place when a SP sends a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to a SU 108 , the message is determined to be deliverable, the message is delivered to the SU 108 , the SU 108 optionally sends a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to the SP 102 , the message is determined to be deliverable, and the message is delivered to the SP 102 . [0064] In support of Set 5 a WorkFlow component might be defined that, inter alia, retrieves from a message the value or the content of the Source Address (for the instant example assume a SC, but alternatively a TN, etc.), the Destination Address (for the instant example assume a TN, but alternatively any other message address identifier), and the Body; performs the necessary and appropriate queries of the Db repository (to, for example, ascertain necessary message routing information); performs the necessary and appropriate inspections of the Body (see generally above); completes the required processing of the contents of the Body; and as appropriate and as required delivers a message (either the original message or possibly a newly-constructed message) to the SU 108 . [0065] As noted above, the SU 108 may optionally send a message (for the instant example assume an SMS message, but alternatively an MMS, etc. message) to the SP. In support of this action the WorkFlow component might be defined to, inter alia, retrieve from a message the value or the content of the Source Address (for the instant example assume a TN, but alternatively any other message address identifier), the Destination Address (for the instant example assume a SC, but alternatively a TN, etc.), and the Body; perform the necessary and appropriate queries of the Db repository (to, for example, ascertain necessary message routing information); performs the necessary and appropriate inspections of the Body (see generally above); complete the required processing of the contents of the Body; and as appropriate and as required deliver a message (either the original message or possibly a newly-constructed message) to the SP 102 . [0066] The discussion above centered around separate WorkFlow components for each of the different activities (Set 2 , . . . Set 5 ). Given the many common elements of the different WorkFlows it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that the individual WorkFlows could easily be combined or consolidated in any number of different ways. [0067] The response message(s) that were described above may optionally contain an informational element—e.g., ‘Sorry, that Short Code is not currently available’ or ‘You need to opt-in’, etc. The informational element may be selected statically (e.g., all generated messages are injected with the same informational text), randomly (e.g., a generated message is injected with informational text that is randomly selected from a pool of available informational text), or location-based (i.e., a generated message is injected with informational text that is selected from a pool of available informational text based on the current physical location of the recipient of the message as derived from, as one example, a LBS facility). [0068] The response message(s) may optionally contain advertising—e.g., textual material if an SMS model is being utilized, or multimedia (images of brand logos, sound, video snippets, etc.) material if an MMS model is being utilized. The advertising material may be selected statically (e.g., all generated messages are injected with the same advertising material), randomly (e.g., a generated message is injected with advertising material that is randomly selected from a pool of available material), or location-based (i.e., a generated message is injected with advertising material that is selected from a pool of available material based on the current physical location of the recipient of the message as derived from, as one example, a LBS facility). [0069] The response message(s) may optionally contain promotional materials (e.g., still images, video clips, etc.). [0070] A Db repository may be structured so that a profile (in general, a collection of related descriptive, definitional, etc. information) is maintained for one or more of each SU, WC, SC, and SP. At various points during the processing of messages (e.g., at a price determination point, as described above) the contents of one or more of the profiles nay be examined so as to, among other things, arrive at a service/offering price using more complicated or involved algorithms, etc. [0071] It is important to note that while aspects of the discussion that was presented above focused on the use of SCs, it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that TNs and other message address identifiers are equally applicable and, indeed, are fully within the scope of the present invention. [0072] The discussion that was just presented employed two specific wireless messaging paradigms—SMS and MMS. These paradigms potentially offer an incremental advantage over other paradigms in that native support for SMS and/or MMS is commonly found on the mobile telephone that a potential SU would be carrying. However, it is to be understood that it would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that other paradigms are fully within the scope of the present invention. [0073] It is important to note that the hypothetical example that was presented above, which was described in the narrative and which was illustrated in the accompanying figures, is exemplary only. It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art that numerous alternatives to the presented example are easily possible and, indeed, are fully within the scope of the present invention. [0074] The following list defines acronyms as used in this disclosure. [0000] Acronym Meaning AE Administrative Engine BI Billing Interface CSC Common Short Code DBMS Database Management System Db Database MICV Messaging Inter-Carrier Vendor LBS Location Based Service MDR Message Detail Record MH Message Highway MMS Multimedia Message Service MNP Mobile Number Portability MP Message Processor MPE Message Processing Engine ODBMS Object Database Management System Q Queue RDBMS Relational Database Management System Rx Receiver SC Short Code SM Subscription Manager SMS Short Message Service SP Service Provider SU Service User TN Telephone Number Tx Transmitter WC Wireless Carrier [0075] The foregoing disclosure of the preferred embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many variations and modifications of the embodiments described herein will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art in light of the above disclosure.
A subscription manager module or message processing engine operating within a messaging inter-carrier vendor (MICV) provides value added services to both service users (e.g., mobile telephone users) and service providers (e.g., information brokers, vendors, news sources, etc.). The MICV is disposed between a plurality of service users and a plurality of service providers and messages sent between these parties are processed by a subscription manager module, or message processing engine, which is configured to, among other things, manage short codes, detect undesirable spam messages, operate service user opt-in and opt-out processes, and perform billing functions.
7
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] Not applicable. STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] Not applicable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] The present invention relates an article used for spacing during wall panel installation. More particularly, the present invention relates to a clip for holding drywall panels in a spaced position during the attachment of the drywall panel onto a stud frame for a wall. [0004] The present invention is primarily drawn towards usage on metal stud wall partition, although, as will be discussed in more detail below, the clip of the present invention may also be used on conventional wood stud wall type framing applications as well. The circumstances that affect both the metal stud and wood stud walls where both are sheathed with drywall panels are essentially common to each type of framing method. Thus the discussion regarding the benefits and attributes of the present invention applies to both methods. [0005] The usage of drywall panels has been the conventional method for finishing interior walls for many decades. Originally it replaced plastered walls owing to the fact that drywall panels can be handled with more ease and they produce a result that is considered to be cosmetically equivalent to a fully plastered wall. The walls themselves have typically comprised a frame, made up of a series of spaced studs that are tied into a wood floor plate at the bottom and a top plate at the top. The finishing of a stud wall with drywall panels requires that the drywall panels be trimmed to the desired size and then attached to the studs. At this point, the installation of the panels result is a wall surface that is flat and ready for a final finishing treatment that may be as modest as finishing the joints with a plaster type compound, or in some cases, it may entail the usage of a thin coating of plaster. In any event, the completed wall presents a surface that appears seamless and smooth and is readily accepted as an interior wall surface. [0006] The mounting of drywall panels onto the stud walls is not a precision process. The panels are comprised of a gypsum core with a paper exterior. This means the panels can be cut very easily with utility knives or “sawzit” type of tools which greatly expedites the fitting and mounting process. Typically though, the drywaller will optimize the fit at the top of the wall knowing that the joint formed between the wall and the ceiling will in most cases be entirely visible. Conversely, the fit on the bottom edge of the drywall panels is usually deemed less critical, but many times the drywall panel will sit directly on, or close to the floor as it is at the time of the drywall installation. The exact nature of this fit is usually of little concern to the drywaller since a perfect fit has not been required, nor has it been easily obtained owing to variations in the floor level. Lastly, the drywall is usually installed well before the floor is finished. Depending on the type of floor material that is selected for a particular job, the spacing between the fully finished floor and the lower edge of the drywall panel will have changed greatly and the two may be in contact. Sometimes the lower edge of the drywall may actually be below the top of the finished floor where the finished floor material has been trimmed to fit the wall. [0007] Problems associated with the contact of the drywall panel with the floor are something that can occur during the balance of the period of time the wall or house is under construction, or, problems may occur afterwards well after the walls and/or house construction activities have ceased. Of main concern and a situation that is very relevant to the present invention, occurs when moisture or water comes into contact with the lower edge of the drywall panels. Inasmuch as they are constructed of gypsum and paper, the drywall remains capable of absorbing fluids and wicking these well above the lower edge where they can spread into the central field of the drywall panel. The result is that delamination of the panel may occur which will appear as blisters on the finished surface and it may include some discoloration as well. In some cases the contact between the drywall and the floor is such that only small amount of moisture are wicked into the drywall panel however when this occurs over a long period of time this becomes fertile ground for the growth of molds and mildew. [0008] The appearance of “black mold” has received much attention in recent years since it has been linked to allergy problem and in some cases, the type of mold that may be involved can represent a serious health issue. These black molds are very tenacious and aggressive once established and become so difficult to eradicate that they may require the wholesale deconstruction of the drywall panels and a decontamination of the flooring and wall frame with chlorine based cleaning solutions. In some cases it has been reported that rehabilitation has not been possible and where the offending mold is of a dangerous type, the house has been intentionally burned down as the most feasible means of dealing with the problem. [0009] The avoidance of such problems is of concern not only to the unlucky homeowner who has purchased the potential tragedy, but also to the contractor who may be hailed into litigation as a result of the manner in which the house has been constructed. This has become an increasingly likely event especially in the Southern climes of the United States where persistent humidity levels increase the potential for encouraging mold and fungal growth. In addition, many states have experienced rain damage and flood damage as a result of hurricanes, tomados and other natural disasters. Another occurrence that results in drywall panel damage is the activation of fire sprinklers. These are only a few of the circumstances that may promote the types of damage to drywall panels. It should also be noted that panels other than drywall may also be subject to the same types of damage. For instance, wood paneling may also be affected adversely under the same types of influences. [0010] There have been clips in the prior art that have been used as tools for installing panels of various types. In U.S. Pat. No. 4,700,515 (Menchetti, et al) teaches the use of a clip that is used to level a wall panel when the installer is confronting an uneven floor. While the clip used by Menchetti bears some visual resemblance to the clip of the present invention, it does not provide a specific spacing of the lower edge of the drywall from a floor. In U.S. Pat. No. 6,0067,691 (Feltman) a clip is used to attach panels to structural beams. The clip provides an interface between the panel and the structural beam and allows the panel to be fastened directly to the clip. In U.S. Pat. No. 3,232,018 (Mac Kean) a clip similar to Feltman is disclosed for the attachment of panels to spaced studs. [0011] Two more patents show clips that can be used for fastening panels to support structures, such as U.S. Pat. No. 3,748,815 (Parker) which covers a clip similar to Feltman for the attachment of panels to structural columns. In U.S. Pat. No. 3,962,840 (Nelsson) also reveals a clip for attaching panels to a structure, which in this instance is a metal stud. The clips are oriented for attaching the panels in corners. Finally, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,073,068 (Slowinski) teaches the use of a bracket for receiving a panel where the bracket forms a baseboard for metal stud wall constructions. [0012] None of the prior art clips or brackets have been directed for use in maintaining a drywall panel (or other panel that might benefit from the present invention) at a select height above the floor in an installation. In the case of the present invention, the clip is self-aligning and provides service as a mount for holding the panel in place. These and other attributes and features of the present invention will be discussed in more detail below. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0013] A novel clip for spacing the lower edge of a panel during the installation of the panel onto a stud wall or partition frame, the clip comprising an elongate metal plate of gauge thickness suitable for bending or forming into a clip, where the clip of the present invention includes a “U” shaped clip portion that includes a radius portion, with a short leg and a long leg emanating from the radius portion and where the short legs and the long leg are in substantially parallel alignment. The short leg further includes a clip flange that projects outwardly and transverse to the plane of the short leg. The clip flange is capable of retaining the lower edge of a panel and supporting a load. [0014] In addition, the clip of the present invention may include in an alternate embodiment, a hole disposed centrally on the long leg of the clip and compatible with the fastening of the clip to a wood stud. [0015] These and other features and attributes of the present invention are discussed in more detail below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0016] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a portion of a stud wall, showing the floor and the lower portion of a wall panel, where the wall panel is positioned to rest on the clip flange extending from the clip of the present invention. [0017] FIG. 2 is a front view of the stud wall, wall panel, floor and clip of the present invention as depicted in FIG. 1 . [0018] FIG. 3 is a side cross sectional view of a portion of the stud wall and the clip of the present invention taken along Section Lines 3 - 3 . [0019] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a clip of the present invention. [0020] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a clip of the present invention with a hole for mounting. [0021] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an upper portion of the stud wall, showing the top plate and a panel placed in position to be mounted to the frame. [0022] FIG. 7 is a side cross section of the top of a stud and top plate, with the clip of the present invention installed in the upper orientation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0023] A novel clip for spacing wall panels above a floor is shown both in the drawings and is discussed in detail within this specification. The usage of the clip is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , where a stud wall 10 is shown with stud(s) 12 , floor plate 14 , the floor 16 , the wall panel 18 , and the clip 20 of the present invention. The lower edge 22 of the wall panel 18 is also shown in the drawings. [0024] In FIGS. 3 , 4 and 5 , more details of the clip 20 can be realized, along with its application in a metal stud wall. Specifically, in FIG. 3 , the floor plate 14 of a stud wall is shown as being comprised of floor plate flanges 30 and the floor plate base 32 . The clip 20 is installed onto one of the floor plate flanges 30 and includes the clip flange 40 , the clip portion 42 , the short leg 44 , the long leg 46 and the radius 48 . Also shown is the outer radius 50 . In FIGS. 4 and 5 , the clip 20 is viewable from a perspective angle and in particular, in FIG. 5 the clip is shown with a mounting hole 60 which may be used to augment the functional attributes of the clip 20 as will be explained below. [0025] As may now be appreciated, the clip of the present invention is used on a metal stud wall type of partition construction. As seen in FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 , the metal stud meets a floor plate which has an inverted “U” shaped profile. The metal stud fits into the floor plate and is typically secured to it using metal screws. The floor plate is itself mounted to the floor, typically by screwing through the floor plate base and directly into the floor. The upwardly directed flanges of the floor plate offer a mounting point to place the clip, which as can be seen with particularity in FIG. 3 , the clip fits onto the flange by inserting the clip over the flange and into the space defined in between the short leg and the long leg of the clip and which terminates at the radius at the top of the clip. This fit is preferably snug although it need not be so snug as to cause it to be wedge into place. The fit has to be tight enough to prevent the clip from tilting when a load is placed on the clip flange. [0026] In FIGS. 1 and 2 , the wall panel is shown as installed on a clip of the present invention. The lower edge of the wall panel rests directly on the clip flange and transfers some of the weight or load of the wall panel onto each clip in this fashion, whereby all of the clips are taking up the total load of the wall panel until the wall panel is secured to the stud wall. The clip flange projects from the short leg at approximately a ninety degree angle. In practice the angle does not have to be exactly ninety degrees and it may actually be formed as a slight acute angle as referenced between the short leg and the clip flange which would tend to offer a little holding bias when a wall panel is mounted thereon. As may be presumed, a number of clips are typically deployed along the floor plate such that the lower edge of the wall panel is supported by the clip flanges of such clips at a plurality of points. The wall panels are typically attached to the studs through the use of screws. In the case where the wall panel is drywall, there are drywall fasteners that are made specially for attaching drywall to studs. If the wall panel is a wood or a composite construction, then the fastener that is appropriate for that product would preferentially be used. [0027] The clips of the present invention can be placed into position by hand and left that way until the wall panel is mounted onto the clips flanges. If it is desired, however, the installer can drill holes in the front side (the side on which the wall panel is mounted) and fix the clip to the floor plate using a screw. One advantage of using the clip of the present invention is in the height that is established for the clip flange from the floor that is adjacent to the bottom of the floor plate. As can be seen from FIG. 3 , the height of the clip flange will never be less than the difference of the height between the bottom of the clip flange and the bottom of the long leg. Variations in the height of the flanges of the floor plate will be of no consequence using the clip of the present invention, thus ensuring that the lower edge of the wall panel will remain at a minimum height above the floor level. [0028] The determination of the appropriate height for the clip flange relative to the floor level is a matter of selection. Typically when walls are being fitted with wall panels, such as drywall, this is still at a construction stage where the floor has not been installed. The floor tends to be one of the last items to be completed since it avoids the potential for damage to the floor while the rest of the work is ongoing. There are different types of floors which can result in different floor heights. For instance, tile and wood floors may require underlayments that will add to the end height of the floor when the tile or wood flooring is added on top. Carpet may vary as well. The contractor will know beforehand what type of flooring is specified for a particular job and can make a selection as to whether a clip with one height or another would be appropriate. In the alternate, one size clip may be provided for all situations where the height of the clip flange is optimized for the tallest floor system, thus making the clip a “one size fits all” design. [0029] The clip is preferably fabricated from metal, typically a light gage steel that can be formed in a sheet brake, or a press. To increase the strength of the part, ribs or gussets can be struck into the clip as it is formed in order to impart additional stiffness. The clip does not necessarily need to be finished although if the clip does get exposed to any moisture there is a risk that it will rust and this will leach into the wall panel, possibly causing stains, and thereby frustrating the objectives of the invention. For this reason, the clip is preferably protected with a galvanic coating such as zinc or it may be finished with a powder coating. [0030] The clip of the present invention is primarily directed towards usage in metal stud walls although with a slight modification it may be used on wood stud wall partitions. For instance, as shown in FIG. 5 , a mounting hole 60 is pre-drilled in the long leg which allows the clip to be installed onto a wood stud or a wood floor plate in the inverted mode as shown in the drawing, or it can be reversed and mounted as shown in FIG. 4 . In FIG. 5 , the clip top 52 is the end of the long leg 46 . In either event the clip is secured to the wood stud or wood plate by a screw. For additional strength, more than one mounting hole may be provided such that two or more screws will be used to secure the clip to the wood stud or wood plate. Lastly, as alluded to above, it is possible for the user to drill a hole through the long leg on the job and mount the clip in the manner described in this paragraph. [0031] Turning now to FIGS. 6 and 7 , an alternate use of the clip of the present invention is shown where the clip 20 is placed onto the upper part of the stud wall 10 . The stud wall 10 includes a top plate 72 that is supported by and connected to the studs 12 . In FIG. 7 , the stud 12 fits within the top plate 72 where the top plate 72 includes the top plate top 74 , the top plate flanges 76 . The fit of the mounting clip onto the top plate flange is sufficiently tight to retain the clip to the top plate flange while in this inverted position. [0032] When used on the upper part of the stud wall, the clip assists in the placement of the panel and keeps it in close proximity to the point where the ceiling meets the top plate. Often this junction is a problem when finishing the room and large gaps require some sort of trim to cover the situation. With the present invention, the clip keeps the gaps consistently the same size which means that it is not such a cosmetic detriment. In addition, if the installer wishes to trim the junction it becomes a much neater and easier job since the gap is now consistent and can be covered with nominally sized trim moldings. Lastly, the installer may elect to caulk the gap which is a procedure that is also facilitated through the use of the present invention. [0033] The benefits of the present invention lie in the fact that it will allow the wall panels to be maintained at a height above a level, relative to the floor, where the potential for the wall panel to come into contact with water or moisture is minimized. The clip of the present invention provides this protection in a surprisingly compact and economical way, one that is unexpected especially in view of the prevalence of the problems associated with the damage to wall panels. [0034] The teachings of the present invention are meant to illustrate the ways in which it can be used. The examples and discussions above are therefore not intended to be limiting and it is understood that variations on the concepts taught herein may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
A novel clip for spacing wall panels above a floor during the construction of a partition comprises a clip with a clip portion with a radius, with a long leg and a short leg emanating in substantial parallel relation from each end of the radius. The short leg further includes a clip flange that projects transversely from the plane of the short leg and away from the long leg. The clip portion is compatibly sized to fit onto a floor plate flange. The clip flange is capable of retaining a load when the bottom of a wall panel is mounted thereon, holding the lower edge of the wall panel at a predetermined height above the floor.
4
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION The present invention is related to the subject matter of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/880,729, incorporated herein by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention is related to the field of electrical computers and digital processing systems to transfer data via one or more communications media, in general, and specifically, to a means for coordinating multiple responses to a single message in a demand based messaging system. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A demand-based messaging system is any communication system that enables a person to exchange electronic messages with another person over a communications media. Demand-based messaging systems typically comprise a network of data processing machines and a messaging program operable on at least one machine to transfer electronic messages over the network to one or more of the other machines. Electronic messages typically are composed of a variety of information, including message data and transmission data. As those terms are used here, “message data” generally refers to the substance of the message, such as text or images, while “transmission data” generally refers to the information required to deliver or respond to the message, such as the correspondents' electronic addresses. Electronic messages also may include status information, such as the time and date that the message was composed, sent, or received. LOTUS NOTES, MOZILLA, and MICROSOFT OUTLOOK are exemplary messaging programs that enable users to exchange electronic mail messages through networked computers. Instant messaging (“IM”) programs such as MSN MESSENGER and YAHOO! MESSENGER, which have gained popularity in recent years, exemplify another embodiment of messaging programs that enable users to exchange electronic messages in real-time through networked computers. A person often addresses a message to multiple recipients, and expects a response from one or more of the recipients. A team supervisor, for example, may send a question to the team without knowing who will be able to answer the question. Several team members may reply with the answer. Other team members may reply with information that is helpful, but not dispositive. Some team members may even reply with information on topics unrelated to the original question. Responses from multiple message recipients, though, can cause problems for both the message originator and the message recipients, including duplicative effort, unnecessary delays, and general confusion. For example, a reply from one recipient may substantially repeat a reply from another recipient, which generally is considered a waste of time and resources. Conversely, uncoordinated replies may conflict with each other, thereby creating confusion among the originator and recipients. Replies from multiple recipients also can create multiple message threads (i.e. discussions about a specific topic), which one person (often the originator) must manage and reconcile. Generally, the frequency of these types of problems increases proportionally with number of recipients. Many, if not all, of these problems may be attributed to a larger problem that is common in all prior art messaging systems—the lack of an effective means for coordinating responses from multiple recipients. Recipients often do not know who should reply, or even if a reply is necessary. Nor does a recipient have any way to know if another recipient intends to reply. Of course, correspondents can adopt rules to coordinate responses, but all correspondents must know these rules in advance, which makes it more difficult to introduce new correspondents (from a different team, for example). Another alternative is to designate the appropriate respondents within each message, but the message originator may not know this information in advance. U.S. Pat. No. 5,878,230 (the '230 patent) discloses a method for an originator of an email to specify one or more recipients in a reply address field as the destination whenever the recipient replies to the note, but does not provide the originator with a method to specify which third parties are to receive the reply, nor does the '230 patent provide identification of parties as they respond to an email. Thus, there is a need in the art for an integrated means to coordinate responses from multiple message recipients. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The disclosed invention is an improvement to a demand-based messaging system that enables multiple message recipients to coordinate responses to the message. The improved messaging system comprises a messaging program that provides an interface through which a recipient can indicate an intent to reply to the message. The messaging program then transmits this intent to other messaging programs so that other recipients receive the intent as status information when they open the message. These and other objects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: FIG. 1 depicts a computer network in which the invention may be employed; FIG. 2 depicts a representative computer memory in which the invention may reside; FIG. 3 depicts a representative email showing a reply summary window; FIG. 4 depicts a representative email showing a reply option window; and FIG. 5 depicts a flow chart of the response management program (RMP). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be implemented in a variety of software and hardware configurations. It is believed, however, that the invention is described best as a computer program that configures and enables one or more general-purpose computers to implement the novel aspects of the invention. As used herein, “computer” means a machine having a processor, a memory, and an operating system, capable of interaction with a user or other computer, and shall include without limitation desktop computers, notebook computers, tablet computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), servers, handheld computers, and similar devices. As used herein, “message” means an electronic mail message transmitted between user terminals over a computer network. As used herein, “electronic mail” or “email” means direct user-to-user transmission of messages between user computers over a network. FIG. 1 illustrates a common prior art architecture for connecting various hardware devices to create a network for transferring data. Computer network 100 comprises local workstation 101 electrically coupled to network connection 102 . In FIG. 1 , local workstation 101 is coupled electrically to remote workstation 103 via network connection 102 . Local workstation 101 also is coupled electrically to server 104 and persistent storage 106 via network connection 102 . Network connection 102 may be a simple local area network (LAN) or may be a larger wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet. While computer network 100 depicted in FIG. 1 is intended to represent a possible network architecture, it is not intended to represent an architectural limitation. The internal configuration of a computer, including connection and orientation of the processor, memory, and input/output devices, is well known in the art. FIG. 2 represents the internal configuration of a computer having the computer program of the present invention loaded into memory 200 . The computer program of the present invention is depicted as Response Management Program (RMP) 230 . Memory 200 also has messaging program 220 and reply history file 240 . Memory 200 is only illustrative of memory within a computer and is not meant as a limitation. In alternative embodiments, RMP 230 and reply history file 240 can be stored in the memory of other computers. Storing RMP 230 and reply history file 240 , in the memory of other computers allows the processor workload to be distributed across a plurality of processors instead of a single processor. Further configurations of RMP 230 and reply history file 240 across various multiple memories and processors are known by persons skilled in the art. FIG. 3 depicts a representative email 300 with header 310 and message area 320 . Header 310 has icon 330 , reply summary 332 , reply options icon 340 , and get info button 360 . Icon 330 is a visual depiction that a recipient has “called” the email and intends to reply. In the example, icon 330 shows a human hand pointing upward representing the gesture that a baseball player may use to indicate that he has called the ball and intends to catch the ball. Reply summary 332 is a short text message informing the user that a recipient, in this case “Joe Smith” intends to reply. Get info button 360 provides the user with a means to display reply status and history window 380 . Upon clicking (or otherwise activating) get info button 360 , reply status and history window 380 opens and displays the activity in regard to reply messages from the date and time that the originator sent the original email. FIG. 4 depicts email 300 where the user clicked reply options icon 340 (see FIG. 3 ) to bring up reply option window 370 . The user may then select from the options displayed in reply option window 370 . By way of example, and not by way of limitation, reply option window 370 contains selections to indicate reply to a particular addressee or to reply to all addressees. Additionally, the reply may be with history and attachments or with history and without attachments. FIG. 5 depicts a flow chart of the RMP 230 process. RMP 230 starts ( 502 ) and determines whether there is an email with multiple recipients ( 505 ). If so, the email is opened ( 510 ). If not, RMP 230 goes to step 590 . RMP 230 displays a summary of the reply status ( 520 ) (see reply summary 332 in FIG. 3 ). If one or more recipients of the same email have indicated that they will reply to the email, then RMP 230 displays the identity of those recipients indicating intent to respond. RMP 230 determines whether detailed reply information is needed ( 530 ). In other words, does the user want more information about the message recipients who has indicated that they will respond to the email? If so, RMP 230 gets detailed reply information from reply history file 240 ( 540 ). If not, RMP 230 determines whether the user wants to reply to the message ( 550 ). If the user wants to reply to the message, then the user “calls” reply to the email ( 560 ). By “call” is meant that the user indicates to RMP 230 his or her intention to reply to the email. When the user “calls” the reply, he or she does not lock out other persons who may also want to reply to the email. RMP 230 then updates the reply status for the email on the server ( 570 ), and updates the display of the reply status for other users who may have the email open ( 580 ). For example, if a reply is already open and another user then opens the email and begins a response, a message to the central server or to the peer client may update the email. RMP 230 cannot update offline users. If the user did not want to reply at step 550 , or after RMP 230 updates the email of other recipients ( 580 ), RMP 230 determines whether there is another email ( 590 ). If so, RMP 230 goes to step 510 . If not, RMP 230 stops ( 592 ). In an additional embodiment, RMP 230 automatically handles emails that are forwarded to other recipients who are not on the original email, or who are not directly involved in RMP 230 , or who are later left out of the message chain. In order to automatically handle such emails, RMP 230 would be configured so that the addition of an addressee to a subsequent message in a chain of messages would be added to the reply history file. Moreover, the deletion of an addressee from a subsequent message in a chain of messages would be noted in the reply history file. In an additional embodiment, RMP 230 may be integrated with an Instant Messaging program. A preferred form of the invention has been shown in the drawings and described above, but variations in the preferred form will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The preceding description is for illustration purposes only, and the invention should not be construed as limited to the specific form shown and described. The scope of the invention should be limited only by the language of the following claims.
The disclosed invention is an improvement to a demand-based messaging system that enables multiple message recipients to coordinate responses to the message. The improved messaging system comprises a messaging program that provides an interface through which a recipient can indicate an intent to reply to the message. The messaging program then transmits this intent to other messaging programs so that other recipients receive the intent as status information when they open the message.
7
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional App. No. 61/637,472, filed 24 Apr. 2012, by Geoff Daly, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. BACKGROUND [0002] 1. Field of Endeavor [0003] The present invention relates to devices, systems, and processes useful for dispensing wine, and more specifically to dispensing wine from a bottle using pressurized, inert gas. [0004] 2. Brief Description of the Related Art [0005] This invention applies to the field of wine preservation and dispensing equipment used for wine sampling and wine-by-the-glass service from opened bottles of wine as applicable in commercial and consumer use. [0006] Post-bottling wine spoilage is most often the result of sorption of the 21% oxygen component in ordinary air following wine's exposure to that air after opening and during pouring cycles. Numerous methods have been used to address issues of wine spoilage after bottle opening. Notable among these are partial vacuum and low-pressure, sealed inert gas systems of varying effect and complexity. Under their premises, both methods require complete bottle sealing to maintain the negative or positive pressures of their systems. Such sealing often requires complex assemblies and operation. Successful use of these methods is highly dependent on the operator's skill and attention to bottle seal placements. [0007] The invention can resolve common operating problems users experience with constantly-pressurized, inert gas wine preservation systems using variably-designed bottle interfaces or bottle sealing mechanisms. A high occurrence of improperly sealed wine bottles leads to unexpected preservation gas losses—leakage—caused by malfunction, wear, and operator error. Because the gas pressure in these systems serves dual functions, both as an oxygenated-air displacer and as a propellant, driving wine from the bottle, the consequences of unexpected gas supply depletion can be catastrophic. Prior systems' wine dispensing utility will not function until replacement inert gas supplies are connected when available. In typical control valve and seal configurations of such equipment, the common failure to make a proper seal at only a single bottle, can result in total gas loss-and consequent system shut-down-within four hours. Often such equipment includes an array of four to twenty bottles, each with its own seal-leak potential. In these system configurations, when properly sealed, control of the pressurized gas is merely an indirect, secondary result of direct-acting liquid control valve operation; that is, the opening of a valve causes wine to flow from the bottle, and the resulting increase in bottle headspace is filled with gas from the gas supply system, which is always in fluid communication with that headspace. [0008] Acknowledging this common problem, some prior art, such as ProWine Products n2-Infinity models, has incorporated synchronous, electronically-controlled gas loss prevention circuitry referenced above, the assurances offered by such systems comes at a high cost, often unaffordable for many restaurants, bars, package shops, and wineries. SUMMARY [0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, a method of dispensing wine from a bottle containing the wine, the bottle including a headspace above the wine and a bottle neck, comprises sealing the bottle neck, a dispensing tube extending out of the bottle neck, when the headspace is at atmospheric pressure, pressurizing the headspace with an inert gas, said pressurizing causing wine in the bottle to flow up and out of the dispensing tube, and venting the headspace to atmosphere while maintaining a seal of the bottle neck and while wine remains in the bottle. [0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, a wine bottle interface useful for dispensing wine from the wine bottle comprises a head having a lumen and a separate gas channel, a tube extending through the head and not in direct fluid communication with the gas channel, the gas channel extending from outside the head and fluidly parallel to a portion of the tube, and a three-way valve fluidly connected to the gas channel, wherein the valve includes a fluid inlet, and first and second fluid outlets, the first fluid outlet being in fluid communication with the gas channel and the second fluid outlet being in fluid communication with atmosphere. [0011] Still other aspects, features, and attendant advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a reading of the following detailed description of embodiments constructed in accordance therewith, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0012] The invention of the present application will now be described in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments of the apparatus and method, given only by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary system useful for executing methods of the present invention; [0014] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate cross-sectional views of an exemplary valve body; and [0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS [0016] Referring to the drawing figures, like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements throughout the several figures. [0017] The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a solvent” includes reference to one or more of such solvents, and reference to “the dispersant” includes reference to one or more of such dispersants. [0018] Concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. [0019] For example, a range of 1 to 5 should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited limits of 1 and 5, but also to include individual values such as 2, 2.7, 3.6, 4.2, and sub-ranges such as 1-2.5, 1.8-3.2, 2.6-4.9, etc. This interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristic being described, and also applies to open-ended ranges reciting only one end point, such as “greater than 25,” or “less than 10.” [0020] Methods and systems embodying principles of the present invention can offer a new operational paradigm of assurance against unexpected gas loss due to component wear and common operator errors through lower cost, manual control methods. Obversely, they utilize momentary-acting, manually-controlled gas valves to control individual bottle gas flow before entering the headspace of normally non-pressurized bottles. Liquid flow control in this method becomes a secondary result of the direct-acting gas control mechanism; that is, gas control to the bottle headspace is primarily controlled, and secondarily, wine is dispensed. [0021] Due to the engineering characteristics of the gas valves in this configuration, bottle headspace pressures will normalize to atmosphere when reverted to idle at the end of the dispensing cycle. Systemic gas flow is controlled directly and willfully by the operator actuating and de-actuating the valve, with the result that gas will not inadvertently flow until the valve is intentionally re-actuated for further dispensing. Thus, wine preservation and dispensing systems using this direct gas control method are afforded previously unavailable assurances against accidental gas losses resulting from common operating errors. [0022] As an adjunct benefit, because bottle headspaces are not constantly pressurized, the risk of forced gas absorption in wine is minimized, making the application less sensitive to the type of gasses used for oxygenated air displacement. This leads to markedly greater convenience in the use of such systems through the elimination of the need for specialty gasses. For example, carbon dioxide, which, under constant pressure, will readily dissolve into wine—carbonating it—is on-premises in nearly all hospitality environments for soft drink service. The short burst of momentarily-pressurized CO 2 for wine dispensing utilizing this method will not carbonate the wine, as it would in the constantly-pressurized environments of conventional inert gas preservation and dispensing methods. [0023] In addition, because the methods and systems described herein eliminate typical continuous pressurization of bottle head spaces, the bottle interface can be simplified to offer comparative cost reductions while promoting ease and speed of operation. Direct-acting, manually-controlled gas valves incorporating a depressurizing function activated at the end of each dispensing cycle, according to some embodiments, are preferably used. The pressure relief function of the valve may be manually actuated, or automatically actuated by mechanical devices, such as springs. Thus, systems and methods as described herein can include the use of pressure relieving valves in principle for inert gas preservation and dispensing applications without dependency on the specific valve design, and can include the delivery of an inert gas to a bottle interface incorporating gas inlet and outlet ports, and wine inlet and outlet ports, without dependency on the design of the interface or the nature of the gas delivered. [0024] The valve system portion of the bottle interface provides three stages of operation: OFF -the resting stage, not actuated; ON -Actuation -the active, intentional dispensing stage; and DEPRESSURIZING -the temporal, post-dispensing stage before resuming the resting (OFF) stage. Features of the valve system include: a pressurized gas inlet port admitting gas from a supply source through a bottle interface to a bottle; and a pressure relief port from the bottle through the bottle interface to atmosphere. These features may be integrated into a single valve assembly, as illustrated in the accompanying, representative drawings, or may be accomplished in multiple-component assemblies. In either case, the two functions of pressurization and depressurization are integral to the system and combined in methods in accordance with principles of the present invention. Indeed, simple and well-known two- or three-hole bottle stoppers can be used, with appropriate tubing and valves attached to each hole, could be used in a very simple embodiment. In the methods and systems described herein, the inert gas acts both as an oxygen-displacing preservative and propellant for dispensing the contained liquid, such as wine, per industry conventions. [0025] Distinct from the convention in wine dispensing, is that, in the methods and systems described herein, dispensing of the liquid is controlled not by the conventional, direct-acting liquid control valve, but an indirectly-acting gas control valve (or valves) which sequentially (1) supplies pressurized gasses into the container while dispensing and then (2) closes the gas supply and relieves container pressure to end dispensing. Also among the unique distinctions of these methods and systems, is the provision of direct and intentional operator's manual control of the supply gasses with subsequent, immediate container pressure relief to create a preservation and dispensing system that is not critically reliant upon constant, high-integrity, failure-prone sealing at the container to prevent accidental gas losses, which commonly plague the industry's conventional designs and intentions of maintaining continuously pressurized systems. [0026] A further distinction arises from the unique and intentional de-pressurized, idle state of the liquid container. This depressurization eliminates the potential for pressure-induced, forced absorption of the preservation-dispensing gasses into the contained liquid at the risk of altering sensory characteristics of taste and smell. Absent forced pressure absorption potentials, the system is able to expand the selection of inert or non-reactive gasses—conventionally limited to specially-procured, high-pressure Nitrogen or Argon cylinders—to include carbon-dioxide (CO 2 ) gas as generally pre-existent in restaurants and bars for soft drink and soda service, adding to simplicity and market appeal. [0027] An example of a single, multi-function, two-position (off/on) valve schematic is shown and described in the accompanying figures, wherein by initially pressing an actuator button, or ‘switching’ a correlative toggle actuator, pressurized gas from a first gas path—from the supply—is admitted into the connected container at a second path—a wine bottle X. Secondarily, releasing that button or toggle closes the gas supply from the first path, while simultaneously and automatically relieving or vacating pressure in the container from the second path to ambient air space at a third path to end dispensing. [0028] Alternatively, two standard two-way valves may be used to accomplish the same functions. In this exemplary embodiment, one normally-closed valve is actuated to supply pressurized gas and end that supply to the container. The other, normally-closed valve is then actuated to relieve or vacate pressure in the container. [0029] Similarly, the same functions can be integrated into a single, three-position valve fitted with a lever or toggle actuator presenting: [0030] 1. a normally-closed ‘neutral’ position when not actuated, in which supply gas is blocked from the first path to the second path, and from the second path to the third path. [0031] 2. an open, ON position, admitting gas from the first path to the second path 2 , when actuated in one direction. [0032] 3. an open, ON position vacating gas from the second path to the third path, when actuated in another direction of the valve. [0033] A preferred embodiment is the single, multi-function valve as described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3 . However, because the objectives of this unique preservation-dispensing method can be accomplished by multiple single-function valves or alternative single valves incorporating the same functions, such alternative configurations are contemplated within the scope of the present invention. Additionally, while the drawing figures show an example of a directly-mounted control valve, it must be recognized that identical operation can be achieved when the valve or valves are connected to the bottle via a length of tubing—a mere extension of valve placement facilitating other configurations of the same preservation and dispensing gas control method. [0034] Exemplary, currently commercially available valves can be used in methods and devices embodying principles of the present invention. By way of non-limiting examples, a Pneumadyne S11-1880 (Pneumadyne, Inc., North Plymouth, Minn.), and a Man Valve PB3NC-B,1/8M,R FLOW, B (Marr P/N 329690) (Marr Valve Co., Granite Falls, Minn.), are examples of available three-way valves that can be used. [0035] Turning now back to the drawing figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary bottle interface 10 which can be used in the performance of methods as described herein. The interface 10 includes a liquid (wine) inlet tube 12 which has a bottom end 14 and a top end 16 , with a lumen extending between the ends; the tube 12 can be formed of a single, unitary piece, or multiple pieces fluidly connected together. A liquid outlet 18 is optionally attached to the top end 16 , from which dispensed liquid, e.g., wine, can flow. [0036] A head 20 is positioned along the tube 12 , and includes a gas and liquid friction seal 22 on the outside of an extension 24 , which is sized to be received in and fluidly seal against the neck of a wine bottle. The top of the head 20 includes bore 28 in which a seal 26 is provided around the tube 12 , so that pressurized gas that is present in the bore 28 does not escape from the head, while wine can flow upwardly in the tube 12 and out of the interface 10 . According to one embodiment, the tube 12 is not itself valved, as the flow of wine through the tube is secondarily controlled by the fluid pressure in the headspace above the level of the wine in the bottle (see FIG. 4 ), which is in turn controlled by the user of the device. This is opposite to the conventional constructions, in which a valve directly controls the flow of the wine through a dispensing tube, while the headspace above the wine in the bottle is continuously (re-)pressurized with a gas (typically, an inert gas). Optionally, the tube 12 can include a one-way check valve, e.g., a spring-loaded ball valve, duckbill valve, or the like, which permits wine to flow only out of the bottle, and inhibits or prevents backflow of wine or air back into the bottle through the tube 12 . Such a valve is advantageously positioned at or very close to the liquid outlet 18 , so that a minimum of wine residue in the tube 12 is exposed to ambient air downstream of the valve. [0037] The head 20 includes a gas channel 30 which fluidly communicates along the exterior of the tube 12 and along the extension 24 with the interior of the bottle. Such a gas channel 30 can be any of numerous configurations, including one or more entirely separate lumens through the head 20 , or one or more channels cut into the head and extension alongside the tube 12 , or one or more channels cut into the exterior surface of the tube 12 (while not directly fluidly communicating with its lumen), or one or more separate lumens in the tube 12 , or combinations of these. [0038] A three-way valve 32 is fluidly attached to a sideport 42 formed in the head 20 , the sideport being in fluid communication or otherwise leading to the gas channel 30 . As discussed elsewhere herein, the valve 32 can take on numerous configurations, so long as it can perform the functions of pressurizing and depressurizing the bottle headspace as described herein. Furthermore, while somewhat less preferred, a pair of two-way valves can be used in the stead of a three-way valve: one to pressurize the headspace, and one to vent the headspace to atmosphere, i.e., to depressurize the headspace. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the valve 32 includes a pressurized gas inlet port 34 , which is in fluid communication with a source 40 of pressurized inert gas (e.g., CO 2 , N 2 , Ar, air, and mixtures thereof). The valve 34 includes a pressure relief port 36 formed in the valve, which can take any of numerous configurations, so that gas 38 can exit from the valve and depressurize the headspace in the bottle. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated herein, the port 36 is formed in or along part of the valve actuator, but other locations are also contemplated. [0039] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate cross-sectional views of an exemplary valve 100 , similar in many respects to valve 32 , which can be used to pressurize and depressurize the headspace in a bottle, and thus secondarily force liquid (wine) from the bottle for dispensing. The valve 100 includes a valve body 102 having an inlet passage 104 configured to be connected to a source of pressurized gas, e.g., source 40 . A hollow valve stem 106 is positioned in the body 102 , such that it is (linearly) movable to seal and unseal a valve seat 108 with an O-ring bearing valve head 110 . The valve head 110 thus selectively fluidly communicates the inlet 104 , via a channel 116 , with a first outlet 112 , which is in fluid communication with the bottle headspace; that is, using the exemplary interface 10 , the first outlet 112 can be attached to the head 20 at side port 42 . [0040] The valve 100 includes a fluid flow passage that permits backflow of pressurized gas to a second outlet, thus permitting venting of the bottle headspace to atmosphere. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3 , this passage is formed as a lumen 114 in the valve stem 106 , extending entirely through the head and stem, and to at least one point beyond seals 118 on the end of the stem opposite the head and on the other side of the inlet 104 . [0041] The valve 100 includes an actuator for the valve. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, a pushbutton 120 is used; alternatively, a toggle switch or other, similar configuration can be used. The pushbutton 120 is partially contained in a hollow collar 122 , which captures a (coil, disc, or leaf) spring 124 in the hollow space 126 between the pushbutton and the rest of the valve body 102 . Formed in any of the pushbutton 120 , the collar 122 , or the valve body 102 , the second gas outlet is formed, through which pressurized gas from the bottle headspace escapes. By way of non-limiting examples, the second gas outlet can include one or more of side vents 130 in the body 102 , passages 132 formed in the pushbutton 120 , side vents formed in the collar 122 , each fluidly communicating the space 126 with the exterior of the valve and to atmosphere. The right, interior-facing portion of the pushbutton, when pushed against the force of the spring 124 , is attached to the leftmost portion of the valve stem 106 , pushing the valve stem to the right and into the configuration illustrated in FIG. 2 . Because of the lumen 114 , a small amount of pressurized gas will, in this exemplary valve, flow out of the second outlet, but not enough to prevent wine from being dispensed. [0042] With reference to FIG. 3 , when the pushbutton is released by the user, the spring 124 forces the pushbutton and the valve stem to the left, into the configuration illustrated in FIG. 3 , causing the seals 110 , 118 to fluidly isolate the inlet 104 from the space 126 and the first outlet 112 , while permitting fluid to flow (from right to left) from the inlet 112 , through the lumen 114 , out of the valve stem, and out of the second outlet ( 132 , 130 , etc.). Alternatively, in a more automated version, the pushbutton 120 can be actuated by, or form a portion of, a linear actuator which is itself controlled by electronics. In this manner, the valve functions to temporarily admit pressurized gas into the headspace of a connected bottle, and then quickly depressurize that headspace. These steps are then repeated until the wine in the bottle is entirely (or nearly entirely) dispensed, with the headspace being alternatingly pressurized and depressurized. [0043] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary implementation, in which a system 200 includes a rack 202 holding a plurality (here, five) wine bottles 204 including wine therein, in the neck of each of which bottles a bottle interface 10 is sealingly positioned. Each of the interfaces 10 is connected to a source of gas (e.g., 40 ), as described elsewhere herein, which preferably is the same for all of the interfaces, or can be separate sources. [0044] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the bottle interface's head can be secured to the exterior of the bottle neck, e.g., using the external threads that are now commonplace on wine bottles, or by the use of a compression seal. For this exemplary, alternative head, an abutment seal is positioned at the top edge of the bottle neck, and an internally threaded collar, rotatably positioned at the bottom of the head, is threaded onto the bottle neck, compressing the abutment seal against the top surface of the bottle neck and sealing the head to the bottle. Exemplary abutment seals are included in, e.g., a ProWine Screwtop Adapter (Prowine Products, 4269 Lincoln Road, Suite 200, Holland, Mich. 49423). [0045] While the invention has been described in detail with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes can be made, and equivalents employed, without departing from the scope of the invention. The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the invention. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto, and their equivalents. The entirety of each of the aforementioned documents is incorporated by reference herein.
A method of preserving and controlling dispensed liquids is achieved exclusively and uniquely through operation of direct or indirect actuation of gas control valves acting systemically upon the liquid container and its contents so as to cause and control the flow of dispensed liquids held within the container.
1
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention broadly relates to a new coating composition and to a method of applying said coating composition to various enclosures to protect electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference (EMI). More particularly this invention relates to a new copper dispersion coating composition usable as a copper shielding coating that maintains high electrical conductivity even after exposure to heat, humidity and/or salt spray; and thereby, it eliminates many of the shortcomings of other copper coatings that have been attempted for this purpose. The new coating composition of this invention may be applied as a one-coat air dry system that is spray applied and needs no protective overcoat. It also of course may be applied by other means such as brushing, dipping or the like. The state of the art is indicated by the following: U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,750,303; 2,980,719; 3,074,818; 3,142,814; 3,382,203; 3,998,993; 4,123,562; 2,750,307; 3,501,353; 3,532,528; 3,653,931; 3,867,738; 3,867,739; 3,716,427; 3,060,062; German Pat. No. 1,941,328; and Acheson Colloids Co. product data sheets on Electrodag 112, 414, 424, and 433. It has been known that copper particles dispersed in a binder resin material or solution could be used to make an electrically conductive coating. However all of the prior coatings of this type have had the major deficiency that during storage or during usage, the copper oxidizes and the electrical properties changed such that there was a detrimental effect. Under many usage conditions this electrical property change is of such magnitude that the formerly conductive coating becomes an insulating coating. Attempts to overcome this change of electrical properties have called for replacement of the copper conductive particles with the more expensive noble-metals such as silver, gold and the platinum group, all of which greatly and significantly increase the cost of the electrically conductive coating. Thus a copper dispersion coating has long been sought after, which when applied in film form to a substrate, would provide good electrical conductance properties even after exposure to elevated temperatures for substantial time periods. Another proposed solution which has been investigated in the past is the treatment of the copper particle to prevent its oxidation and subsequent change in electrical properties. Some of the solutions that have been suggested are treatment of the copper with chemicals such as nitrosobenzene, benzotriazole, chromium salts, silicates, and the like. Other treatments suggested have included high molecular weight alcohols and stearates. These attempted solutions have been ineffective or temporary at best. In addition many of these surface treatments resulted in the copper particle becoming an electrical insulator rather than the desired electrical conductor. Accordingly a main object of this invention is to provide a new coating composition containing finely particulated copper particles and which composition is suitable for use in forming applied coatings having very good electrical conductance properties. Another important object of this invention is to provide a novel method of forming EMI shielding coatings on enclosures for electronic equipment. Another object of the invention is to provide a new copper coating composition which when applied as a coating maintains high electrical conductivity even after exposure to heat, humidity or salt spray. Another object of the invention is to provide an environmentally stable air dry copper coating. Another object of the invention is to provide a new copper coating composition which provides controlled electrical properties. Another object of the invention is to provide a novel method of protecting electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference (EMI) by applying a copper shielding coating to enclosures for the equipment. Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent description and the appended claims. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A significant purpose of this invention is to describe a method of making an electrically conductive coating composition containing copper particles which coating composition has a long storage life and yet the coating still retains highly useful electrical conductance properties after exposure to elevated temperatures for significant periods of time. By elevated temperatures it is meant temperatures in the range of 160° F., and/or temperatures up to as high as approximately 200° F. or higher in some instances. The uses for these new compositions include electromagnetic interference shielding; production of printed circuits by silk screening, and similar uses where a highly conductive film coating is needed. Numerous prior art deficiencies have been overcome through the discovery that if finely divided copper particles are co-mixed with special organic titanates as described herein, the copper particles do not appear to degrade and the conductivity of the deposited film remains stable over a long period of time even at the elevated temperatures encountered in many specialized uses. Although the discovery of this invention has been used primarily to preserve the desirable electrical properties of the copper in such applied coatings or films, it has also been discovered that an improved decorating effect is also obtained by means of the non-oxidizing copper coatings which are disclosed herein. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS While it is not fully understood as to why the invention operates to provide such significantly useful electrically conductive copper coatings, particularly in the area of EMI shielding coatings, the following preferred embodiments and preferred aspects of the invention will now be described. The new compositions discovered and disclosed herein have the desirable features of ease in manufacturing, long shelf life, ease of application, and most importantly, have acceptable electrical properties even when used at elevated temperatures. The pigment material used in the coating composition is substantially of copper. For example the pigment material is substantially pure electrical grade copper and/or it may be such as an electrical grade copper alloy. Normally the copper particles used herein are of 95% purity or greater and preferably they are of 99% purity or greater. The pigment particle size broadly stated should be under 200 microns in average particle size and preferably it is under 50 microns average particle size. The binder resin used in the coating composition can be any one of a number of different materials. The binder resin is preferably a thermoplastic resin material which is compatible with the copper particles and with the titanate material used in the coating composition. Thermosetting resin materials may also be used as the binder resin herein. The binder resin is selected from at least one of the group consisting of thermoplastic acrylic, vinyl, urethane, alkyd, polyester, hydrocarbon, fluoroelastomer and celluosic resins; and, thermosetting acrylic, polyester, epoxy, urethane, and alkyd resins. The binder resin material chosen should generally be one which is easily used for spray coating applications, and also it should be non-reactive with the copper and non-reactive with the titanate. The pigment to binder ratio by weight in the coating composition of the invention should broadly be within the range between about 20 to 1 and about 2 to 1, and preferably it should be maintained in the range between about 10 to 1 and about 4to 1. The organic titanate material used in the coating composition is one which provides good heat stability to the coating as applied on a substrate, and it enables the coating to maintain good electrical conductivity during sustained exposure to elevated temperatures. The organic titanate used in the composition should be present within the broad range of about 1/2% to about 18% by weight of the pigment material in the composition. Preferably it should be within the range of about 2% to about 12% by weight of the pigment material, and best results are obtained within the range of about 3% to about 10%. The organic titanate should preferably be a pyrophosphate type, with best results being obtained with an organic titanate which is of the pyrophosphate type selected from at least one of the group consisting of monoalkoxy titanates or titanium chelates. As described herein the organic titanate material enables the coating as applied to maintain an electrical conductivity of under 10 ohms per square at one mil applied film thickness after exposure to an elevated temperature of about 160° F. for substantial time periods. Preferred results can be obtained, using the coatings as described herein, of under 5 ohms per square. For some applications, conductivity values up to 150 ohms per square are satisfactory, but for most electrical uses, resistance values between about 10 ohms per square are desirable. Particularly useful organic titanates for use in the coating composition of this invention are the following: (1) isopropyl tri(dioctylpyrophosphato) titanate (2) titanium di(dioctylpyrophosphate) oxyacetate (3) tri (butyl, octyl pyrophosphato) isopropyl titanate mono (dioctyl, hydrogen phosphite) (4) titanium di(butyl, octyl pyrophosphate) di (dioctyl, hydrogen phosphite) oxyacetate (5) di(butyl, methyl pyrophosphato), isopropyl titanate mono(dioctyl, hydrogen) phosphite (6) di(butyl, methyl pyrophosphato) ethylene titanate mono(dioctyl, hydrogen phosphate) The organic solvent carrier used with the coatings are conventional organic solvents or solvent blends useful for dissolving or dispersing the binder resin. Because of the known tendency of the organic titanates to react with water, the solvent carrier should be of very low water content or substantially water free. Also because one use of the coating composition is to obtain an electromagnetic interference shield on the interior surfaces of plastic enclosed electronic devices, the solvent blend used should be one which is not only compatible with the resin and copper particles but also with the plastic containers and one which will not degrade the plastic materials. For example with many solvent sensitive plastics a blend of isopropanol and toluol has been found desirable. For ease of application, it is generally desirable to use the coating composition at a low total solids level. Many of the conventional solvents such as ketones, alcohols, acetates, etc. can be used as diluents. Generally suitable solvents are the ketones, aromatics, alcohols, aliphatics or blends of same. Other materials which may also optionally be present in the coating composition are for example various thixotropic agents selected from at least one of the group consisting of finely divided silicas or hydrated silicates. The thixotropic agent when used may be present in the amount of about 0.1% up to about 7% by weight of the total solids and preferably within the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Particular materials for this purpose are the Bentone clays and fumed colloidal silicas such as Cab-O-Sil. The percent total solids in the coating composition should broadly be within the range of about 20% up to about 85% by weight, and preferably within the range of about 40% to about 80% by weight. In the following examples the formulating process was maintained essentially the same for comparative purposes. In addition to the small size shot mills, larger equipment such as ball mills, pebble mills, attritors (continuous or batch processing types), high shear mixers and the like can be used. In order to further illustrate the invention the following examples are provided. It is to be understood however that the examples are included for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting of the scope of the invention as set forth in the subjoined claims. EXAMPLE NO. 1* ______________________________________Thermoplastic Methyl/Butyl MethacrylateCopolymer Resin(Acryloid B-66) 10.0Titanium Di(Dioctylpyrophosphate) OxyacetateKR-138S Organic Titanate 5.4Toluol 30.0Copper powderRL500 (Copper Pigment) 60.0Denatured Ethyl Alcohol(Jaysol) 10.0Formulating Procedure: (1) Predisperse titanate and resin in solvents.(2) Load all ingredients in 8 oz. shot mill and mix for 15 - minutes.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.412 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..520 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..700 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ Test coatings made by spraying on clean glass substrate and air drying 24 hours for initial reading and afterdrying for stated intervals. EXAMPLE NO. 2 ______________________________________Ethyl Methacrylate ResinAcryloid B-72 10.0Copper PowderMD 750 Copper Pigment 40.0Toluol 20.0Methyl Ethyl Ketone 20.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato), IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) PhosphiteKR 62ES (Ken-Rich) 5.0Fumed Colloidal Silica(Cabosil M-5) 0.5Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance9.93 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160°0 F.13.4 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.34.5 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 3 ______________________________________Methyl Methacrylate ResinAcryloid A-11 7.0Copper ParticlesRL500 70.0Methyl Ethyl Ketone 20.0Methyl Isobutyl Ketone 20.0Isopropyl Tri(Dioctylpyrophosphato) TitanateKR38S Organic Titanate (Ken-Rich) 1.4Bentonite ClayBentone 27 2.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.616 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..616 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..716 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 4 ______________________________________Thermoplastic Vinyl ResinUnion Carbide Corp. - VAGH 10.0Copper ParticlesRL500 120.0Butyl Acetate 60.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato), IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) Phosphite 8.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance2.92 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.2.82 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.4.00 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 5 ______________________________________Thermoplastic Vinyl ResinUnion Carbide Corp. - VYND 5.0Copper ParticlesRL500 50.0Methyl Ethyl Ketone 40.0Titanium Di(Butyl, Octyl Pyrophosphato)Di(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphite) OxyacetateKR158FS 5.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance10.24 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.11.56 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.14.88 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 6 ______________________________________Rosin-Ester Coating ResinCellolyn 102 5.4Ethyl Cellulose 5.4Butanol 3.2Xylol 2.2Methyl Ethyl Ketone 16.7Butyl Acetate 11.0Copper PowderRL500 50.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato), IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) PhosphiteKR62ES 9.0Fumed Colloidal SilicaCab-O-Sil M-5 1.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial resistance.563 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160°F..605 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..735 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 7 ______________________________________Methyl Methacrylate ResinAcryloid A-11 5.0Toluol 30.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato), IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) PhosphiteKR62ES 8.0Bentonite ClayBentone 34 1.5Copper PowderRL500 60.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.184 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..196 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..208 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 8 ______________________________________Ethyl Cellulose 8.0Xylol 49.0Butanol 3.0Denatured Ethyl Alcohol 10.0Tri(Butyl, Octyl Pyrophosphato) IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphite)KR58FS 6.0Copper PowderRL500 40.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.584 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..604 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hour at 160° F..660 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 9 ______________________________________Nitrocellulose 4.2Toluol 3.2Ethanol 12.0Copper PowderRL500 36.0Titanium Di(Butyl, Octyl Pyrophosphate)Di(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphite) OxyacetateKR158FS 1.8Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance3.2 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.3.2 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.3.2 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 10 ______________________________________Methyl Methacrylate ResinElvacite 2008 10.0Cellulose Acetate ButyrateCAB 381-20 0.5Copper PowderRL500 50.0Toluol 20.0Methyl Ethyl Ketone 24.5Titanium Di(Butyl, Octyl Pyrophosphate)Di(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphite) OxyacetateKR158FS 8.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coatings:Initial Resistance1.63 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.1.71 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.1.93 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 11 ______________________________________Thermoset Acrylic ResinAcryloid AT-50 20.0Toluol 10.0Copper PowderRL500 69.0Isopropyl Tri(Dioctylpyrophosphato) TitanateKR-38S 6.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Cured 20 min. at 300° F.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.124 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..128 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..128 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 12 ______________________________________Cellulose Acetate ButyrateCAB 381-20 5.0Copper PowderRL500 40.0Methyl Ethyl Ketone 49.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphate), IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) Phosphite 3.0KR62ESFormulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coatings:Initial Resistance.728 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..796 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..928 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 13 ______________________________________Methyl Methacrylate ResinAcryloid B-82 5.0Copper PowderRL500 90.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato), IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) PhosphiteKR62ES 7.0Toluol 40.0Isopropanol 10.0Colloidal Fumed SilicaCabosil M-5 1.5Butanol 5.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance1.28 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.1.38 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.2.15 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 14 ______________________________________Polyester Desmophen 1300 10.0Copper PowderRL500 50.0Tri(Butyl, Octyl Pyrophosphato) IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) Phosphite 6.5KR58FSMethyl Ethyl Ketone 10.0Butyl Acetate 20.0PolyisocyanateMondur CB-75 18.0Formulating Procedure: (1) Disperse KR58FS in solvents and load with RL500 and Des. 1300 in 8 oz. shot mill for 15 minutes.(2) Add Mondur CB-75 and mix thoroughly.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance24.9 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.24.5 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.29.4 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 15 ______________________________________Vinyl ResinUnion Carbide Corp. VAGH 8.0Copper PowderRL500 60.0Methyl Isobutyl Ketone 40.0Titanium Di(Octylpyrophosphate) OxyacetateKR138S 8.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.616 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..736 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..952 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 16 ______________________________________Polyester Coating ResinINOLEX 5171-200 10.0Copper PowderRL500 80.0Toluol 30.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato), IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen) PhosphiteKR62ES 9.0PolyisocyanateDesmodur N-75 9.0Formulating Procedure:(1) Predisperse titanate in solvents.(2) Load blend with RL500 and polyester for 15 minutes in 8 oz. shot mill.(3) Combine with polyisocyanate.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance2.4 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.2.54 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.3.02 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 17 ______________________________________Thermosetting Epoxy ResinEpon 1001 7.0Urea ResinUformite F-492 3.0Toluol 20.0Methyl Ethyl Ketone 20.0Copper PowderRL500 70.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato) EthyleneTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphate)KR262ES 5.0BentoniteBentone 27 1.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Cured 15' at 300° F.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance 8.4 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F. 8.4 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.11.2 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 18 ______________________________________Thermosetting Polyester ResinCyplex 1600 18.0Urea Curative ResinBeetle 80 3.0para-toluenesulfonic acidPTSA 0.2Copper PowderRL500 140.0Di(Butyl, Methyl Pyrophosphato) EthyleneTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphate)KR262ES 9.0Toluol 10.0Butyl Acetate 10.0Ethylene Clycol Monoethyl EtherCellosolve 10.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Cured 60' at 300° F.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance137.6 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.136.0 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.136.0 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 19 ______________________________________Methyl/Butyl Methacrylate CopolymerAcryloid B-66 13.6Copper PowderRL500 Copper Pigment 54.3Toluol 18.3EthanolJaysol 9.2Titanium Di(Dioctylpyrophosphate) OxyacetateKR138S 4.5Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.417 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour 15 160° F..447 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..498 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 20 ______________________________________Methyl/Butyl Methacrylate CopolymerAcryloid B-66 13.6Copper PowderRL500 Pigment 55.0Toluol 18.3EthanolJaysol 5.0Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl EtherCellosolve 4.3BentoniteBentone 34 1.5Tri(Butyl, Octyl Pyrophosphato) IsopropylTitanate Mono(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphite)KR-58FS 2.3Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coating:Initial Resistance.129 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F..144 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F..159 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ EXAMPLE NO. 21 ______________________________________Thermoplastic Fluoroelastomer ResinViton 10.0Butyl Acetate 50.0Titanium Di(Butyl, Octyl Pyrophosphate)Di(Dioctyl, Hydrogen Phosphite) OxyacetateKR158FS 5.0Copper PowderRL500 Copper Pigment 80.0Methyl Ethyl Ketone 20.0Formulating Procedure same as Example 1.Results for 1 mil thick applied coatings:Initial Resistance13.6 ohms per square at 1 mil.One hour at 160° F.18.4 ohms per square at 1 mil.24 hours at 160° F.26.4 ohms per square at 1 mil.______________________________________ While it will be apparent that the preferred embodiments of the invention disclosed are well calculated to fulfill the objects above stated, it will be appreciated that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation and change without departing from the proper scope or fair meaning of the subjoined claims.
A new copper dispersion coating composition particularly useful as a copper shielding coating for plastic enclosures to protect electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference (EMI). The coating maintains high electrical conductivity even after exposure to heat, humidity or salt spray. The coating composition may also be used as a one-coat air dry system that is spray applied and needs no protective overcoat.
2
STATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT INTEREST The invention described herein may be manufactured and used by or for the Government of the United States of America for governmental purposes without the payment of any royalties thereon or therefor. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A wide variety of sonar systems have been in evolving developmental stages for years. Some are more particularly adaptable for submersibles and others for surface going vessels. The resolution and the images presented to an operator permit the undersea location of larger objects. Miniaturization of some undersea sonars has tended to adversely affect resolution. In an effort to achieve more acceptable operational characteristics, systems have projected and received higher frequencies to produce more detailed acoustic images of smaller objects. Unfortunately, these transducer and hydrophone combinations, while giving a somewhat more acceptable degree of resolution, are far too burdensome and complicated for a free-swimming diver working under covert conditions. Synthesizers and multiplexing techniques have been tried, yet they fall short of the acoustic resolution of porpoises and dolphins. The broadband signals which contain higher frequency components are radiated by these marine mammals to enable them to catch prey and to avoid underwater obstacles under zero visibility conditions. Thus, there is a continuing need for a diver carried device utilizing the high frequency picturing capability of marine mammals to provide a higher degree of resolution under adverse conditions of visibility. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A projector and a pair of spaced apart receivers of high frequency acoustic energy are coupled to feed echo signals to a pair of head phones. The echo signals are digitized and transformed to within the audio spectrum. Now a diver need only monitor the response to identify targets. An object of the invention is to provide a sonar target discriminator. Another object of the invention is to provide a sonar processor having size, shape, and location resolution. Still another object of the invention is to provide a device sized to be carried by a diver to discriminate underwater targets. Yet another object of this invention is to provide a compact, portable, underwater, sonar system capable of being operated by a diver under zero visibility conditions. Still another object is to provide a sonar target discrimination apparatus which employs high frequency, broadband, projected signals and echo signals in the marine mammal range to provide improved resolution. A further object is to provide a diver resolution device which translates broadband, high frequency projections and echoes into the audio spectrum. These and other objects of the invention will be more thoroughly understood from the drawings when taken with the ensuing description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an isometric depiction of the invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring now to FIG. 1 of the drawings, a diving headgear 10 serves as a mounting platform for three transducers of acoustic energy. A centrally disposed, acoustic energy projector 11 ensonifies the surrounding water and a pair of acoustic energy receivers or hydrophones 12 and 13 flank the projector. Separation of the receivers about 111/2 centimeters provided acceptable resolution among a variety of targets. Because the transducers rely on the transmission and reception of acoustic energy for location or navigation, ambient noise should be held to a minimum. A closed circuit, underwater breathing system 14, such as an oxygen-rebreathing system, enhances the responsiveness of the system since it reduces the problems otherwise associated with bubble noise. The projector of acoustic energy projects a single cycle of 60 kHz into the water at rates determined by interconnected electronic circuitry discussed below. A projector transducer of the type developed by the Applied Research Laboratory, University of Texas, Type 3021 functions very satisfactorily for its intended purpose. The 60 kHz pulse has demonstrated a capability for an acceptable level of discrimination. But, due to its relatively high frequency and bandwidth (60 kHz), above the audio spectrum, reflected echoes cannot be utilized by a diver without additional signal processing. Two hydrophones 12 and 13 receive echoes of the projected 60 kHz pulses and feed representative potentials to an electronics package 15 for further processing. The two hydrophones having an acceptable response were developed by the Naval Research Laboratory, Underwater Sound Reference Division, Orlando, Fla., Type E-27. Their separation referred to above permitted the discrimination of differently shaped "echo lobes" from differently shaped targets. The sequence when the 60 kHz pulse is transmitted and the processing of the echoes begins, is governed by a function generator 16 which provides appropriate trigger pulses. A suitable generator is a Model 406 marketed by the Wavetek Corporation, 9045 Balboa Avenue, San Diego, Calif. It feeds 10 Hz trigger pulses to a function generator 17. This generator, a Model 3300A, marketed by the Hewlett Packard Corporation of Palo Alto, Calf., delays the 10 Hz trigger pulses and initiates a single cycle 60 kHz signal in an interconnected function generator 18. Generator 18 is a typical commercially available unit marketed by the Data Royal Corporation. While only a single complete cycle of the 60 kHz ensonifying signal is to be projected, slightly more than a single cycle was radiated due to the characteristics of projector transducer 11 after amplification in power amplifier 19, a Model 467A, Hewlett Packard amplifier. Target echoes received by hydrophones 12 and 13 are fed to interconnected amplifiers 20 and 21. The amplified signals are passed to transient recorders 22 and 23 which digitize and store the amplified echoes. The transient recorders successfully used were Model 802 transient recorders marketed by the Biomation Corporation of 1070 East Meadow Circle, Palo Alto, Calif. These recorders have the capability, when triggered by the function generator 16, to effect the digitizing and storage of the echo signals. In the present embodiment, the signals were replayed at a rate 128 times slower than the frequency of transmission of the projected signal cycle of ensonifying energy. The factor of 128 is chosen so that the shortest echoes (about 20 microseconds) are stretched in time to at least 2 milliseconds in duration, the minimum duration required for humans to discriminate between the complex reflected transients. Because the stretched echo signals are monitored by the diver wearing the headgear before the next ensonifying signal is emitted, the repetition rate of the ensonifying signal is limited to fifteen point six pulses per second. This rate also is governed by the time required to digitize the signals. The digitized signals pass through a pair of bandpass filters 24 and 25. The filtered signals are smoothed out and are fed to a stereo amplifier 26 which drives a headset 27 worn by the diver. With the projector and receiving transducers aforedescribed, a mean width of the projected signal is approximately 10° at 60 kHz. Side-to-side motion by the diver as the head is swung from side to side effected a scanning of the targets with different characteristic lobes being reflected from different targets. Two sets of targets were used to emperically prove the effectiveness of the transducers and their associated electronics. Thirty centimeter diametered metallic plates either aluminum, copper, or brass, were stamped having different thicknesses and geometrical shapes (square, triangular or circular). Some of the targets had two-tenths of a centimeter thickness covered with neoprene foam material about sixty-three hundreths of a centimeter thick. Changing the ensonifying frequency from 60 kHz to 75 kHz resulted in a slightly better target discrimination. Square, triangular, or circular targets all exhibited similar echo returns when ensonified head-on, that is, with the diver facing the target directly. The easiest way to discriminate between the differently shaped configurations of the target was to monitor the lobe differentiations between the echoes as a diver moves his head from side to side, the angular variations with respect to the line of the returning echoes were representative of the different targets. Interestingly enough, when several divers were later given audiograms after discriminating among several targets, those divers having the best hearing were the best at discriminating between different targets and those having the poorest hearing did the worst, although all divers scored well. Continuing development of the inventive concept will further demonstrate that the higher frequency broadband sonar pulses used by marine mammals result in improved resolution when shifted to the audio spectrum for real-time analysis by divers. Improvements will enable location of objects and navigation under conditions of zero visibility such as those encountered in murky water or in the dark. Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in the light of the above teachings, and, it is therefore understood that within the scope of the disclosed inventive concept the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.
Diver carried transducers and electronic instrumentation are provided whichill enable a diver to approximate the directional and discriminatory resolution of marine mammals. An ensonifying signal above the audio spectrum is projected and echo signals are digitized. Next, they are transformed to within the audio spectrum to be capable of being resolved by a diver. Consequently, the location, shape and composition of objects may be discerned without visual verification.
6
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a process for racemizing an optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound. Optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compounds are known as important synthetic pyrethroid insecticides or production intermediates thereof, and a desired optical isomer thereof has been produced by optical resolution of a racemate thereof with an optical resolution agent. In connection with the optical resolution process, the other isomer of the resolved desired compound was racemized to the racemate for the purpose of efficiently utilizing the produced chemicals, and there have been reported, for example, a racemization method of an optically active chrysanthemum-monocarboxylic acid by reacting the optically active acid or its halide with a Lewis acid (e.g. aluminum bromide), and a method of irradiating light in the co-presence of thiol(SH), and the like (JP-A-52-144651, JP-A-60-174744, JP-A-61-5045, JP-A-1-261349). However, these methods were not necessarily satisfactory as an industrial production process in that a halogen-containing catalyst, which is generally corrosive to reactors, was required, or a powerful electric energy supply for light-irradiation was required. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, an optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compounds including carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid halides and carboxylic acid esters thereof, can be effectively racemized in an industrially advantageous manner. The present invention provides a process for racemizing an optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1): wherein R 1 , R 2 , R 3 and R 4 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, which may be substituted, an aryl group, which may be substituted, or an alkoxycarbonyl group, which may be substituted, or R 1 and R 2 are bonded to form an alkylene group, which may be substituted (e.g. haloalkylene group such as dihaloethylene group or the like); and X represents a hydroxyl group, a halogen atom, an alkoxy group having 1-20 carbon atoms, which may be substituted, or an aryloxy group, which may be substituted, which process comprises reacting said optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1) with a nitric compound or a nitrogen oxide. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION “Racemizing” in the present process means that the optical rotatory power of said optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1) to be reacted is decreased or lost. A description will be first made to R 1 , R 2 , R 3 and R 4 of formula (1) above. The alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, which may be substituted, may be straight, branched, or cyclic, and the examples thereof include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, i-propyl, cyclopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, and the like. The alkyl group may be substituted with a group selected from: a halogen atom such as fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine; and an alkoxy group (e.g. C1-C4 alkoxy) such as methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, i-propoxy, n-butoxy, sec-butoxy, tert-butoxy, or the like. Examples of the aryl group, which may be substituted include phenyl, and the aryl group may be substituted with an alkyl group (e.g. C1-C4 alkyl as described above), a halogen atom, or the like. Examples of the alkoxycarbonyl group, which may be substituted include a (C1-C4)alkoxy-carbonyl group such as methoxycarbonyl, ethoxycarbonyl, n-propoxycarbonyl, i-propoxycarbonyl, n-butoxycarbonyl, sec-butoxycarbonyl, tert-butoxycarbonyl or the like. Furthermore, these alkoxycarbonyl may be substituted with a halogen atom such as fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine. Preferably R 1 to R 4 represent a methyl group. Alternatively, R 1 and R 2 preferably represent a halogen atom and R 3 and R 4 represent a methyl group. Examples of the alkoxy group, which may be substituted, represented by “X” in the formula (1), include an alkoxy group having 1-20 carbon atoms, which may be substituted, and an aryloxy group, which may be substituted. The alkoxy group may be straight, branched or cyclic. Specific examples of the alkoxy group include methoxy, ethyoxy, n-propoxy, isopropoxy, n-butoxy, sec-butoxy, tert-butoxy, n-pentoxy, neopentoxy, n-hexyloxy, cyclohexyl, n-heptyloxy, n-octyloxy, n-nonyloxy, n-decyloxy, n-undecyloxy, n-dodecyloxy, n-tridecyloxy, n-tetradecyloxy, n-pentadecyloxy, n-hexadecyloxy, n-heptadecyloxy, n-octadecyloxy, n-nonadecyloxy, n-icosyloxy and the like. The alkoxy group may be substituted with a group selected from: a halogen atom such as fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine; an aryl group, which may be substituted with an alkyl (e.g. C1-C3 alkyl such as methyl, ethyl, or propyl), or phenoxy group, and specific examples of the aryl group include, for example phenyl, naphthyl, or anthracenyl methylphenyl, dimethylphenyl, trimethylphenyl, propylphenyl, and phenoxyphenyl groups; a heterocyclic group such as furyl, phenoxyfuryl, benzylfuryl, difluoromethylfuryl, propargylfuryl, methylisooxazolyl, trifluoromethylthiazolyl, trifluoromethoxythiazolyl, propinylpyrolyl, propinylpyrazolyl, propinyldioxoimidazolidinyl, indolyl, propinylindolyl, dioxotetrahydroisoindolyl, oxothiazolyl, pyridyl, or trifluoropyridyl group; an oxo group; an alkenyl having a double bond or an alkynyl having a triple bond (e.g. C2-C3 alkenyl such as vinyl, propenyl or the like, C2-C3 alkynyl such as ethynyl, propynyl or the like); cyano; nitro; and the like. The alkoxy group, which may be substituted is preferably a C1-C20 alkoxy group, more preferably a C1-C4 alkoxy group, yet more preferably a C1-C2 alkoxy group. Examples of the aryloxy group, which may be substituted, include phenoxy, 1-naphthyloxy, 2-naphthyloxy of which aromatic ring may be substituted with alkyl(e.g. C1-C4 alkyl), alkynyl(e.g. C2-C3 alkynyl), alkoxy(e.g. C1-C4 alkoxy), acetyl, formyl, or a halogen atom. Specific examples of the alkyl, alkynyl and alkoxy groups include those specified above. Specific examples of the optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1) include optically active 2,2-dimethyl-3-(1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropane-carboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)cyclopropane-carboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-chloro-2-fluorovinyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-bromovinyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoro-1-propenyl)-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-{3,3,3-trifluoro-2-(trifluoromethyl)-1-propenyl}cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-phenyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-phenylvinyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-{(2,2-difluorocyclopropylidene)methyl}-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-{2-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)vinyl}-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-{2-fluoro-2-(methoxycarbonyl)vinyl}-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-{2-fluoro-2-(ethoxycarbonyl)vinyl}-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-{2-fluoro-2-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-vinyl}cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-[2-{2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)-ethoxycarbonyl}vinyl]cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2-methyl-2-ethyl-3-(1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-diethyl-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, and 2-methyl-2-phenyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid; optically active chlorides, methyl esters and ethyl esters thereof; and the like. Preferable examples thereof include, for example, optically active 2,2-dimethyl-3-(1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid chloride, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid chloride, ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(1-propenyl)cyclopropane-carboxylate, ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate, and the like. Said optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1) means, for example, a (+)-vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound, a (−)-vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound, or a mixture thereof containing one of them in excess (enriched with one isomer). The (+)-vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound and a (−)-vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound have a trans isomer or a cis isomer based on the relative configurations at the cyclopropane carbon atoms connected with the carbonyl carbon atom and the vinyl group respectively. Thus, said optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1) means (+)-trans, (+)-cis, (−)-trans, or (−)-cis isomer, or a mixture thereof enriched with (+)-isomer(s) or (−)-isomer(s). Examples of the nitric compound, which may be used in the present invention include, for example, nitric acid, nitrate (a salt or ester of nitric acid) and a mixture of nitric acid and nitrate. The concentration of the nitric acid is not particularly limited. The salt of nitric acid includes a metal salt of nitric acid or a double salt of nitric acid. Specific examples of the salt of nitric acid include zinc (II) nitrate, aluminum nitrate, ammonium nitrate, diammonium cerium (III) nitrate, diammonium cerium (IV) nitrate, ytterbium (III) nitrate, yttrium nitrate, indium (III) nitrate, erbium nitrate, cadmium nitrate, gadolinium nitrate, gallium nitrate, calcium nitrate, silver nitrate, chromium (II) nitrate, chromium (III) nitrate, cobalt (II) nitrate, samarium nitrate, zirconium nitrate, zirconyl nitrate, dysprosium nitrate, scandium nitrate, strontium nitrate, cesium nitrate, cerium (III) nitrate, thallium (I) nitrate, thallium (III) nitrate, iron (III) nitrate, copper (II) nitrate, sodium nitrate, lead (II) nitrate, nickel (II) nitrate, palladium (II) nitrate, barium nitrate, bismuth (III) nitrate, praseodymium (III) nitrate, holmium nitrate, magnesium nitrate, manganese (II) nitrate, europium (III) nitrate, lanthanum nitrate, lithium nitrate, rubidium nitrate, rhodium (III) nitrate, and the like. Examples of the double salt include urea nitrate and the like. Examples of the nitric acid ester include isoamyl nitrate, isopropyl nitrate, isopentyl nitrate, and the like. Preferable examples of the nitric compound include, for example, nitric acid, the metal salt of nitric acid, particularly such as zirconyl nitrate, indium nitrate, cerium nitrate, zinc nitrate, aluminum nitrate, ammonium nitrate, iron nitrate, copper nitrate, nickel nitrate, manganese nitrate or the like, and a mixture of nitric acid and the metal salt of nitric acid. The nitric compound can be used neat in the form of a commercially available anhydride, hydrate, or a solution such as an aqueous solution or the like. Although the amount of the nitric compound to be used is not particularly limited, it is generally in the range of from approximately 0.00001 to 2 moles per mol of the optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1), or a catalytic amount, and preferably in the range of approximately 0.0001 to 0.3 mol, and more preferably, in the range of approximately 0.001 to 0.1 mol per mol of the optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1). Examples of the nitrogen oxide, which may be used in accordance with the present invention include, for example, dinitrogen monoxide, nitric monoxide, dinitroqen trioxide, nitrogen dioxide, dinitrogen tetroxide, and dinitrogen pentoxide. Preferred nitrogen oxide is nitrogen dioxide. Liquid or gaseous nitrogen oxide can be used in the present process by suitably adjusting the reaction conditions and reactors. Although the amount of the nitrogen oxide to be used is not particularly limited, it is generally a catalytic amount or in the range of approximately from 0.00001 to 2 moles per mol of the optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound (1), preferably in the range of approximately 0.0001 to 0.3 mol, and more preferably, in the range of approximately 0.001 to 0.2 mol per mol of the optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound (1). The reaction of the vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound (1) with a nitric compound or a nitrogen oxide may be conducted in an air atmosphere, however, it is preferably conducted in an atmosphere of an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen. Although the reaction may be conducted under a normal, pressurized or reduced pressure, it is preferably conducted under a normal pressure. The reaction can be performed in the absence or presence of a solvent. Examples of the solvent which may be used include a halogenated hydrocarbon such as dichloromethane, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, 1,2-dichloroethane, chlorobenzene or the like; an aliphatic hydrocarbon such as hexane, heptane, octane, nonane or the like; an aromatic hydrocarbon such as benzene, toluene, xylene or the like; an ether solvent such as diethyl ether, tetrahydrofuran or the like; and an aprotic or protic polar organic solvent such as dimethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide, acetonitrile, acetic acid or the like. The reaction temperature is not particularly limited, and the reaction is preferably conducted in the range of 0 to 250° C., and is more preferably 20 to 200° C., and even more preferably 40 to 180° C. The vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound thus produced in the present process can be readily separated from the reaction mixture by a conventional operation such as washing with water or acidic water, filtration, distillation, recrystallization, column chromatography, or the like. In accordance with the present invention, the desired vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound can be readily obtained in a good yield and good selectivity by subjecting the optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1) to a reaction with a nitric compound or a nitrogen oxide. EXAMPLES The following examples further illustrate the present invention in more detail, however these examples do not limit the scope of the present invention. Example 1 To a 15 ml tubular reaction vessel equipped with a condenser were charged 1.68 g of optically active 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylic acid containing: 74.4% (+)-trans isomer[(1R, 3R)-isomer ]; 3.0% (−)-trans isomer[(1S, 3S)-isomer]; 23.1% (+)-cis isomer[(1R, 3S)-isomer]; and 0.5% (−)-cis isomer[(1S, 3R)-isomer], 0.032 g of nitric acid having a concentration of 93%, and 6 ml of xylene, and the resulting mixture was stirred under reflux of xylene for 8 hours. This reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid containing: 57.1% (+)-trans isomer; 29.9% (−)-trans isomer; 8.5% (+)-cis isomer; and 4.6% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 99%. Example 2 A reaction was performed in a similar manner as in Example 1, except that 0.27 g of zirconyl nitrate dihydrate was charged in place of 0.032 g of nitric acid. The reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylic acid containing: 48.9% (+)-trans isomer; 39.5% (−)-trans isomer; 6.2% (+)-cis isomer; and 5.4% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 92%. Example 3 A reaction was performed in a similar manner as in Example 1, except that 0.177 g of indium nitrate trihydrate was charged in place of 0.032 g of nitric acid. The reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylic acid containing: 50.4% (+)-trans isomer; 39.6% (−)-trans isomer; 5.4% (+)-cis isomer; and 4.5% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 91%. Example 4 A reaction was performed in a similar manner as in Example 1, except that 0.217 g of cerium nitrate hexahydrate was charged in place of 0.032 g of nitric acid. The reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylic acid containing: 50.8% (+)-trans isomer; 38.8% (−)-trans isomer; 5.7% (+)-cis isomer; and 4.7% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 90%. Example 5 To a 15 ml tubular reaction vessel equipped with a condenser were charged 1.96 g of optically active ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 92.5% (+)-trans isomer; 3.4% (−)-trans isomer; 3.1% (+)-cis isomer; and 1.0% (−)-cis isomer, 0.032 g of nitric acid having a concentration of 93%, and 6 ml of xylene, followed by stirring under reflux of xylene for 8 hours. This reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 55.5% (+)-trans isomer; 32.5% (−)-trans isomer; 6.0% (+)-cis isomer; and 6.0% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 99%. Example 6 A reaction was performed in a similar manner as in Example 5, except that 0.134 g of zirconyl nitrate dihydrate was charged in place of 0.032 g of nitric acid. The reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 43.0% (+)-trans isomer; 43.9% (−)-trans isomer; 6.5% (+)-cis isomer; and 6.6% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 96%. Example 7 A reaction was performed in a similar manner as in Example 5, except that 0.177 g of indium nitrate trihydrate was charged in place of 0.032 g of nitric acid. The reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 49.2% (+)-trans isomer; 38.9% (−)-trans isomer; 5.9% (+)-cis isomer; and 5.9% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 95%. Example 8 To a 15 ml tubular reaction vessel equipped with a condenser were charged 1.96 g of optically active ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 92.5% (+)-trans isomer; 3.4% (−)-trans isomer; 3.1% (+)-cis isomer; and 1.0% (−)-cis isomer, and 0.134 g of zirconyl nitrate dihydrate, and the resulting mixture was stirred at 145° C. for 8 hours. This reaction mixture was analyzed on HPLC using an optically active column, and by gas chromatography, which demonstrated that the obtained ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 41.6% (+)-trans isomer; 44.7% (−)-trans isomer; 6.8% (+)-cis isomer; and 6.9% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 93%. Example 9 To a 50 ml tubular reaction vessel equipped with a condenser were charged 1.96 g of optically active ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 93.2% (+)-trans isomer; 2.8% (−)-trans isomer; 2.7% (+)-cis isomer; and 1.2% (−)-cis isomer, 0.028 g of nitric acid having a concentration of 65%, and 4 ml of xylene, and the resulting mixture was stirred under reflux of xylene for 4 hours. This reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 47.3% (+)-trans isomer; 42.4% (−)-trans isomer; 5.1% (+)-cis isomer; and 5.2% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 96%. Example 10 To a 50 ml tubular reaction vessel equipped with a condenser were charged 0.98 g of optically active ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 93.2% (+)-trans isomer; 2.8% (−)-trans isomer; 2.7% (+)-cis isomer; and 1.2% (−)-cis isomer, 0.084 g of iron nitrate nonahydrate, and 2 ml of xylene, and the resulting mixture was stirred under reflux of xylene for 4 hours. This reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 48.3% (+)-trans isomer; 41.6% (−)-trans isomer; 5.0% (+)-cis isomer; and 5.2% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 88%. Example 11 A reaction was performed in a similar manner as in Example 10, except that 0.061 g of zinc nitrate hexahydrate was charged in place of 0.082 g of iron nitrate. The reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 59.7% (+)-trans isomer; 31.1% (−)-trans isomer; 4.6% (+)-cis isomer; and 4.6% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 94%. Example 12 A reaction was performed in a similar manner as in Example 10, except that 0.078 g of aluminum nitrate nonahydrate was charged in place of 0.082 g of iron nitrate. The reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 44.0% (+)-trans isomer; 45.8% (−)-trans isomer; 5.0% (+)-cis isomer; and 5.2% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 90%. Example 13 To a 50 ml tubular reaction vessel equipped with a condenser were charged 0.98 g of optically active ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 93.2% (+)-trans isomer; 2.8% (−)-trans isomer; 2.7w (+)-cis isomer; and 1.2% (−)-cis isomer, 0.023 g of nitrogen dioxide, and 4 ml of xylene on an ice bath, and the resulting mixture was stirred under reflux of xylene for 4 hours. This reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that ethyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate containing: 48.3% (+)-trans isomer; 41.7% (−)-trans isomer; 5.0% (+)-cis isomer; and 5.1% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 90%. Example 14 To a 15 ml tubular reaction vessel equipped with a condenser were charged 1.68 g of optically active 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid containing: 74.4% (+)-trans isomer[(1R, 3R)-isomer]; 3.0% (−)-trans isomer[(1S, 3S)-isomer]; 23.1% (+)-cis isomer[(1R, 3S)-isomer]; and 0.5% (−)-cis isomer[(1S, 3R)-isomer], 0.019 g of nitric acid having a concentration of 65%, and 0.0038 g of Al(NO 3 ) 3 ·9H 2 O, and 6 ml of toluene, and the resulting mixture was stirred under reflux of toluene for 4 hours. This reaction mixture was analyzed by HPLC using an optically active column and gas chromatography, which demonstrated that 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid containing: 52.6% (+)-trans isomer; 38.1% (−)-trans isomer; 4.7% (+)-cis isomer; and 4.6% (−)-cis isomer was obtained in a yield of 98%.
There is disclosed a process for the racemization of a vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid or a derivative thereof, which is characterized by reacting an optically active vinyl-substituted cyclopropanecarboxylic acid compound of formula (1): wherein R 1 , R 2 , R 3 and R 4 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, alkyl which may be substituted having 1-4 carbon atoms, aryl which may be substituted, or alkoxycarbonyl which may be substituted, or R 1 and R 2 are bonded to form an alkylene group, which may be substituted; and wherein X represents hydroxyl, a halogen atom, alkoxy which may be substituted having 1-20 carbon atoms, or aryloxy which may be substituted, with a nitric compound or a nitrogen oxide.
2
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to an automatic sewing machine controlled by a computer for producing a path curve or trajectory as a relative movement between a sewing head with a needle and workpieces to be sewn. An automatic sewing machine is known from U.S. Pat. No. 4,312,283 in which the sewing head can be moved in the X-direction and the Y-direction by means of computer-controlled servomotors. A workpiece to be sewn is held in a workpiece holder, the computer being programmed in such a way that sewing takes place along the trajectory in accordance with a previously fed-in program. When the sewing process is at an end, the sewn workpiece is removed from the workpiece holder, after which a new workpiece is inserted and the sewing process is repeated. The technical information sheet entitled "Electronic Controlled Stitcher" of the International Shoe Machine Corporation, Nashua, New Hampshire, U.S.A., discloses an electronically controlled automatic sewing machine, in which the sewing head is fixed. Two displaceable workpiece clamps are provided, which are moved in alternating manner beneath the sewing head, where a seam with a predetermined course is produced in accordance with a previously fed-in program. During this time, the workpiece can be removed from the other workpiece clamp and a new blank can be inserted. When the two workpiece clamps are firmly joined together, i.e. when the workpiece clamp to be charged is also moved with the workpiece clamp located below the sewing head, this construction is largely unusable, because it is virtually impossible accurately to introduce a blank. If, however, the workpiece clamp to be charged is disengaged from the workpiece clamp beneath the sewing head, then considerable constructional effort and expenditure are required for this. In addition, the often very abrupt reciprocating movements of the workpiece clamps with the workpiece, so-called "shaking", are disadvantageous for the precision of the sewing process and particularly if a seam is to be made in the inner area of the workpiece surface. The reason is that the workpieces are made from flexible material and in the case of such shaking movements, displacements of the workpiece can easily take place. U.S. Pat. No. 3,878,801 discloses a program-controlled automatic sewing machine, whose sewing head is fixed. A charging station is provided, into which blanks are inserted in spaced manner from the sewing head and these are subsequently transferred into a working station, which guides the workpiece under the sewing head, in accordance with the predetermined trajectory, accompanied by the production of a seam. Even at the time of transferring the workpieces, displacements occur. In addition, only a central clamping of the particular workpiece is possible so that further displacements are possible. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A primary object of the invention is to provide an automatic sewing machine in which, during the sewing of a workpiece, another workpiece can be inserted or removed in a simple manner. Another object of the invention is to construct an automatic sewing machine in such a way that displacements of the workpiece are largely prevented. In accordance with the invention, the workpiece clamps are fixed whereas the sewing head is moved in the X and Y-directions in computer-controlled manner. The seams to be successively produced on the individual workpieces in the workpiece clamps are treated as a single seam, which is broken off at the end of the seam to be sewn on the first workpiece. In addition, there is a displacement process with a non-sewing needle from the end of the seam on the first workpiece to the beginning of the seam on the second workpiece. Thus, it is possible in a very simple manner to sew different workpieces with different seam courses in the two adjacent workpiece clamps, there being no displacement of the workpieces during sewing. In a particularly simple manner, the operator can insert the workpiece blanks into the stationary workpiece clamps. It is also particularly advantageous that the workpiece can be secured in an all-round manner in the immediate vicinity of the seam and can therefore be particularly firmly held. Othe problems, advantages and features of the invention can be gathered from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment, with reference to the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an automatic sewing machine according to the invention; FIG. 2 is a front view of part of the automatic sewing machine taken in the direction of the arrow II in FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a side view of another part of the automatic sewing machine taken in the direction of the arrow III in FIG. 2; FIG. 4 is a plan view of another part of the automatic sewing machine, with the sewing head removed, taken in the directrion of the arrow IV in FIG. 3; FIG. 5 is a plan view of a workpiece holder forming part of the automatic sewing machine; and FIG. 6 is a section through part of the workpiece holder taken on the section line VI-VI in FIG. 5. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring to the drawings, the automatic sewing machine comprises a frame 1 on which is arranged a sewing head 2, which is formed by a base plate 3, a standard 4 projecting perpendicularly therefrom and an arm 5 extending horizontally therefrom and approximately parallel to the base plate 3. In the arm 5 is mounted an arm shaft 6, which can be driven by an externally flanged positioning drive 7. The arm shaft 6 is provided with a crank drive 8 enabling a reciprocating movement to be imparted to a needle bar 9. A needle 10 is fitted to the lower end of the needle bar 9. A hook shaft 12 located in the base plate 3 is driven by the arm shaft 6 via a timing belt drive 11. At the end of the shaft 12 associated with the needle 10, a double lock stitch hook 13 is provided which is positioned below a throat plate 14 fitted to the base plate 3 and having a stitch hole 15 in the path of the needle 10. An encoder 16 is fitted to the positioning drive 7 which, during each needle stroke, emits a zero pulse, from which it is possible to derive information on the position of the needle 10 at this time. The sewing head 2 is fixed by means of screws 18 to a carriage 17 which, on two perpendicularly arranged horizontal guide bars 19, 20 is movable in the X-direction (guide bar 19) and Y-direction (guide bar 20). The sewing head 2 is moved in the X and Y-directions on guide bars 19 or 20 by means of servometers 21, 22 via timing belt drives 23, 24. The servometers 21, 22 are provided with encoders 25, 26, which determine the position of the needle 10 in the X and Y-directions. A plate 27 is arranged on the frame 1, which plate has a cutout 28, through which the sewing head 2 projects upwards and within which the sewing head 2 is movable in the represented manner in the X and Y-directions. A supporting frame 29 is fixed by means of screws 30 in the cutout 28 on the associated edge of the plate 27. A workpiece holder 31 is fixed to the supporting frame 29. The workpiece holder has two lower plates 32,32', whose upwardly bent margins 33 are fixed by means of screws 34 to the supporting frame 29. By means of hinges 36' two juxtaposed upper plates 35, 36 are hinged in upwardly swingable manner in the X-direction to the lower plates 32, 32'. Each upper plate 35, 36 has a cutout 37, 38 corresponding roughly to the seam course to be produced. The upper plates 35, 36 can be elastically locked to the lower plates 32, 32' in a clamping position securing a workpiece W1 or W2 to be sewn, by means of lock elements 39. In addition, the lower plates 32, 32' carry upwardly projecting positioning pins 40, which project with a clearance into the particular upper plate 35 or 36. The positioning pins 40 are arranged in accordance with the periphery of the workpiece W1 or W2 to be received and serve to position the same. The lower plates 32, 32' have cutouts which coincide with the cutouts 37, 38 in the associated upper plates 35, 36 and the limiting edges 42, 43 of said cutouts are positioned directly alongside the particular seam 44 or 45 to be produced. As a result of the aforementioned construction, two workpiece clamps 46, 47 are formed. The supporting frame 29 also carries two switches 48, 49, which are operated when the clamps 46, 47 are installed. The lower surfaces of the lower plates 32, 32' are located on or immediately above the upper surface of the throat plate 14. A computer 50 with an input device 51 is provided for controlling the automatic sewing machine. The computer functions are manually started by means of a panel 52. Before the start of a sewing process, a data carrier 53, e.g. a perforated strip or EPROM is placed in the input device 51 and the information contained thereon is read into the computer 50, as soon as the instruction to do this is given by the panel 52. Apart from identifying coding for a workpiece holder 31 or workpiece clamps 46, 47, the data carrier 53 contains support points for the course of seams 44, 45 to be controlled. These support points are given as X and Y-coordinates of the seams 44, 45 to be formed. They constitute computer variables for the computer algorithm, with which the remaining points of the seam can be calculated by linear or circular interpolation. In addition, special points of the seams are fed in, such as e.g. corner points, so that the computer program on reaching such support points can carry out special program branches to take account of the complicated control configuration in the vicinity thereof. In addition, the data carrier 53 supplies the computer 50 with information about the particular parts of the sewing curve where additional variables have to be taken into account. The seam pattern is produced in such a way that the servomotors 21, 22 are controlled by the computer, in accordance with the course of the seams, 44, 45. In each case, the encoder 16 supplies the computer 50 with a signal concerning the position of the needle. In addition, the positioning drive 7 is controlled by the computer 50, so that even in the case of complicated seam courses with discontinuities, the needle only stitches in points of the desired path and not in those which can result from overswings of the sewing head 2 moved in the X and Y-directions at such critical points of the seam course. The sewing program on the data carrier 53 also ensures that the sewing head 2, starting from a framebound stationary reference point 54, which can be the absolute system reference point, assumes a program zero point 55. The points 54 and 55 are in each case associated with the needle 10 and the point 54 can be formed by corresponding sensors on the frame 1. Firstly, workpieces W1 or W2 are inserted in the workpiece clamps 46, 47. The upper plates 35, 36 are now folded down and by means of the lock elements 39 are clamped to the lower plates 32, 32'. The workpieces W1 and W2 are now clamped in the correct position for the sewing process. After operating a starting button on the panel 52, the sewing head 2 is moved in such a way that from the program zero point 55, the needle 10 moves in non-sewing manner to a seam starting point 56 of a seam 44 to be made on workpiece W1. The sewing head 2 then produces the, in this embodiment approximately square, seam 44, which is again terminated at point 56 by a thread cutting process. Following this, the sewing head 2 is moved in such a way that the needle 10 is moved from the point 56 to a seam starting point 57 of the seam 45 to be sewn on the workpiece W2. The sewing head 2 then produces the, in this case triangular, seam 45 and again terminates this with a thread cutting process. During the production of the seam 45 on the workpiece W2, and operator can remove the previously sewn workpiece W1 and place in the workpiece clamp 46 a new workpiece to be sewn and again close said clamp. During the sewing of the seam 44 on the workpiece W1, it is possible to perform the corresponding operations on the workpiece clamp 47 for the other workpiece W2. At the end of the sewing of the seam 45 on the workpiece W2, the sewing head 2 is again moved back to the seam starting point 56, from where a new sewing cycle can commence. If the seams 44 and 45 to be produced on workpieces W1 and W2 differ considerably from one another and consequently lead to widely varying cycle times, it may be necessary for the sewing head 2 to stop after ending a seam 44 or 45, during which the needle 10 remains at the program zero point 55 until a new starting instruction is received. If only one workpiece clamp 46 or 47 is fixed in the supporting frame 29, the sewing head 2 is only moved backwards and forwards on a path from the program starting point 55 to the seam starting point 56 or 57 for the purpose of inserting or removing workpieces. The aforementioned thread cutting processes are carried out by means of a thread cutting device 58 arranged in conventional manner alongside the stitch hole 15 below the throat plate 14, i.e. associated with the hook 13, said device also being controlled by the computer 50. The invention is not restricted to the abovedescribed embodiment but modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
A computer-controlled automatic sewing machine has a sewing head and a workpiece holder. In order to be able to alternately sew at least two workpieces, the sewing head is movable in X and Y-directions by means of servomotors, while the workpiece holder having at least two workpiece clamps is fixed.
3
This is a division of application Ser. No. 613,274 filed May 24, 1984 now U.S. Pat. No. 4,596,410. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Fittings are commonly defined upon conduit ends permitting interconnection of conduits, or attachment thereof to other fittings, adapters, hose, etc. Most conduit fittings utilize threads for attachment, or the assembly of hose fittings to metal conduits, and accordingly, rotational torque forces are often applied to the conduit and its associated fittings or components. Such torque forces are commonly resisted by the use of a wrench engaging wrench flats fixed relative to the conduit. In the past, wrench flats on conduits have been defined upon nipples or adapters soldered, brazed, swaged, or otherwise mechanically attached to the conduit, and it is also known to shape the conduit material, itself, into a noncircular configuration throughout a limited axial length to form parallel flat surfaces suitable for wrench engagement. It is also known to braze, solder or weld wrenching nuts or rings to cylindrical elements such as a conduit to permit torque transfer members to be applied thereto. Prior art devices of the aforedescribed types, especiall those requiring heat, are expensive to fabricate, requiring rather complex secondary operations including heating and cooling stages. It is an object of the invention to attach wrenching means to a metal conduit by a simple mechanical process not requiring external heat. Another object of the invention is to provide a method for attaching a wrenching nut to a deformable metal conduit wherein the conduit metal is radially deformed into a mechanical relationship with a wrenching nut. Yet another object of the invention is to provide a method of affixing a wrenching nut to a deformable metal conduit wherein only the material of the conduit is utilized to produce a mechanical interconnection with the nut, and the process may be quickly and economically achieved. Another object of the invention is to produce an assembly between a metal conduit and a wrenching nut wherein the conduit material is outwardly radially deformed into engagement with keying recesses defined in lateral sides of the nut which include radially disposed surfaces effectively capable of establishing a torque transmitting relationship between the nut and conduit. In the practice of the invention a deformable metal conduit, such as of soft steel, copper, brass, aluminum, or the like, receives an annular wrenching nut slipped thereover. The nut includes an outer periphery having wrench-engageable flats defined thereon, usually of a hexagon configuration, and the lateral sides of the nut include recesses having surfaces of a generally radial orientation. Upon the nut being axially positioned on the conduit as desired, the conduit is radially deformed in the region of the nut in an outward direction by the application of axial forces thereto. This outward deformation of the conduit throughout its circumference forces the conduit material into engagement with the nut on each lateral side axially positioning the nut. Further, the deformed conduit material enters the nut recesses and engages the radial surfaces thereof which prevents relative rotation between the nut and conduit permitting the transmission of torque forces therebetween. The desired directional flow of the conduit material during deformation is achieved by dies surrounding the conduit worked portion, and if desired, axial forces may be applied to the deformed conduit material to assure intimate contact of the conduit material with the nut lateral sides. The practice of the invention permits an effective mechanical interconnection between a wrenching nut and a conduit without the application of external heat or bonding materials. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The aforementioned objects and advantages of the invention will be appreciated through the following description and accompanying drawings wherein: FIG. 1 is an elevational view, partially sectioned, illustrating a conduit and wrenching nut assembly in accord with the invention as taken along Section I--I of FIG. 3, FIG. 2 is an elevational view, partially sectioned, as taken along Section II--II of FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is an elevational, sectional view as taken along Section III--III of FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is an elevational view of the wrenching nut, per se. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT A metal conduit is shown at 10, and the conduit is of a relatively thin wall type, usually formed of soft steel, copper or aluminum. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the complete assembly includes the conduit 10, a socket 12, a hose 14 and the wrenching nut 16. The conduit is formed with a plurality of outwardly disposed circumferential portions 18, 20 and 22, three in the disclosed embodiment, and the cylindrical portion 24 of the conduit is of a reduced diameter adjacent end 26 defining a nipple receiving the hose 14. The annular sheet metal socket 12 includes a cylindrical skirt portion 28 in radial alignment with the nipple 24, and socket flange 30 is affixed to the conduit by the conduit deformation portion 22, as later described. The hose 14 is received between the nipple 24 and socket 12, and the socket skirt 28 may be swaged or crimped upon the hose to firmly compress the hose on the conduit nipple portion as is well known in the hose fitting art. The wrenching nut 16 is of an annular configuration including an outer periphery 32 and an inner cylindrical bore 34. The periphery 32 is of a noncircular configuration, preferably hexagonal, defining a plurality of wrench-engageable flats 36. The bore 34 is of a diameter only slightly greater than the normal outer diameter of the conduit 10, whereby the nut may be readily inserted over the end of the conduit and axially located thereon. The lateral sides of the wrenching nut 16 are identically formed, and each include an annular counterbore 38 of cylindrical form having a diameter as indicated at 40. The counterbores include a radial surface 42, and a plurality of recesses 44 are formed in the nut intersecting the surface 42, FIG. 4. As will be appreciated from FIG. 4, the recesses 44, four being shown in the illustrated embodiment, within each counterbore, are of semi-circular configuration and include shoulder surfaces 46 which are of a generally radial orientation with respect to the center of the nut. The surfaces 46 form abrupt transitions in the configuration of the nut surfaces 42, and serve as keying means capable of transmitting torque forces between the wrenching nut and the conduit. To produce the assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the wrenching nut 16 is positioned upon the conduit 10 at a desired axial location relative to the end 26. Thereupon, the socket 12 is positioned adjacent the wrenching nut, and the three component assembly is located within a press, not shown, which imposes an axial force upon the conduit 10. Appropriate metal confining dies, not shown, are disposed adjacent the conduit and nut during the upsetting of the conduit, and as the axial force is applied to the conduit, circumferential conduit material deformations 18, 20 and 22 are produced. Simultaneously, the reduced diameter of the nipple portion 24 is formed. The deformations 18 and 20 occur within the nut counterbore 38, and of course, the conduit will expand into tight engagement with the nut bore 34. The radial deformation of the conduit material into portions 18 and 20 causes the material to enter the recesses 44, and the forces are such that the recesses will be substantially filled with the conduit material. Simultaneously, the deformation 22 occurring on the inside of the socket flange 30, and the radial expansion of the conduit at the bore of the socket flange, firmly mechanically affixes and positions the socket upon the conduit. The reception of the conduit material into the recesses 44, and the intimate engagement of the conduit material with the recess shoulder surfaces 46 produces a torque transmitting interconnection between the wrenching nut and the conduit. If desired, the deformations 18, 20 and 22 may be further subjected to axial forces which will "compress" the deformations toward each other assuring full and intimate reception of the material of deformations 18 and 20 into the recesses 44. It is to be appreciated that the keying means defined in the lateral sides of the wrenching nut may take a variety of forms. For instance, the counterbores 38 could be of a noncircular configuration wherein deforming of the conduit material thereinto will prevent rotation of the nut upon the conduit. Likewise, slots and slits may be defined in the nut for providing surfaces engageable with the conduit deformed material capable of transmitting torque. After the assembly of the conduit, socket and nut has occurred, the hose 16 may be inserted within the annular space between the socket skirt 28 and the nipple 24, and the socket skirt is swaged or crimped upon the hose to complete the attachment of the hose to the conduit 10. In some applications, it may be desired to attach a wrenching nut to the conduit, without affixing a hose receiving socket thereto. In such instances only two deformations are produced in the conduit, on opposite sides of the wrenching nut. It is appreciated that a variety of embodiments of the inventive concepts may be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
The invention pertains to the attachment of a wrenching nut to a metal conduit wherein torque forces can be applied to the conduit through the nut. An annular nut member is located upon a conduit and the conduit is radially deformed to force the conduit material into engagement with keying surfaces defined upon the nut. Conduit deformation occurs on both sides of the nut for axial positioning thereof, as well as establishing a torque transmitting relationship between the nut and conduit.
5
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a text transfer device of a fascimile, and more particularly to a transmit text transfer device which is able to perform one hundred percent complete reproduction of a text and error-free feeding of sheet of text. In a composition of a conventional transmit text transfer device, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, reduction gears 3 are engaged with both sides of a gear 2 of a motor 1 that generates driving force, the two reduction gears 3 are engaged with a main gear 4 of a main roller 5 and a feed gear 4A, of a feed roller 7. The main gear 4 has a total of Z M gear teeth and the feed gear 4A has a total of Z F gear teeth. A pinch roller 8 is in close contact with circumference of the feed roller 7, and a separating rubber plate 6 is in close contact with circumference of the main roller 5. In conventional composition, for the main roller 5, a main roller shaft 13 is inserted into a center hole that goes through from one end to the other end of the main roller 5, in such a way that an inner slide 12, into which a fixing pin 11 is inserted, is inserted as well in order to fix the axis of the main roller 5, and as shown in FIG. 3, an outer slide 10, which is formed with an angle of θ, is inserted into on the outer surface of the inner slide 12. And at both ends of the main roller shaft 13, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the axis of the main gear 4 is fixed having a one-way bearing 14 inserted therein, in order to cut or transfer driving force to the main roller 5. In the conventional transmit text transfer device as shown above, when linear velocities of the main roller 5 and the feed roller 7 are represented by V M and V F , respectively, and relationship between V M and V F is V M =V F or V M <V F , the imbalance between the two velocities can be corrected either by adjusting diameters of the main roller 5 and the feed roller 7 to be the same on the one hand and velocity reduction ratio of engaged gears to have a ratio of Z M <Z F on the other hand, or by controlling velocity reduction ratio of the engaged gears to have a ratio of Z F =Z M on the one hand and ratio of diameters of the main roller 5 and the feed roller 7 to have a ratio of D M <D F on the other hand. However, the latter is more often used in conventional transmit text transfer device, therefore, when sheet of text is bitten by the main roller 5, the main roller 5 is run idle by one-way bearing 14 that is engaged with the main gear 4, in order that transmit sheet of text is transferred by linear velocity of the feed roller. In maintaining an interval between one transmit sheet of text and the next, linear velocity difference is generated between the main roller 5 and the feed roller 7 while one sheet of text is completely fed and the next sheet of text is ready to be fed, and the linear velocity difference lets the one-way bearing 14 run the main roller 5 by the degree of θ as shown in FIG. 3B, thereby, when the next sheet of text is bitten by the main roller 5, the main roller 5 runs idle by the degree of θ even though the main gear 4A transfers driving force to the main roller 5, resulting in that the interval as far as circumferential distance of the θ is generated between one sheet of text and the next sheet of text. Thereby, the conventional transmit text transfer device has a setback that at the time before a sheet of text is bitten by the feed roller 7 at a reading position 9 with the sheet of text bitten by the main roller 5, i.e., at the time when the sheet of text is fed as far as a distance A as shown in FIG. 4A, the sheet of text is affected by the linear velocity of the main roller 5, thereby, transfer distance of the sheet of text becomes shorter than the transfer distance of when the sheet of text is bitten by both the main roller 5 and the feed roller 7, i.e., when the text is under the influence of the linear velocity of the main roller 5, therefore, one hundred percent reproduction of the transmit text is not realized. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is accordingly an object of the present invention to provide a transmit text transfer device that can fully reproduce a transmit text by feeding a sheet of text at a sustained velocity, shifting rotation direction of a driving system, and maintaining distance between first sheet of text and next sheet of text at a given interval. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ATTACHED DRAWINGS For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a status of a conventional transmit text transfer system; FIG. 2 is a side-glance view of a main roller of the conventional transmit text transfer system; FIGS. 3A, 3B are diagrams showing operating status of the main roller of the conventional transmit text transfer system; FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating a sheet of text passing through the conventional transmit text transfer system; FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a status of reproduced sheet of text transmitted by the conventional transmit text transfer system; FIG. 5 is diagram showing a status of a transmit text transfer system according to the present invention; FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating a forward transfer status of the transmit text transfer system according to the present invention; FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating a backward transfer status of the transmit text transfer system according to the present invention; FIG. 7 is a side-glance view showing knock-down motor driving part of the transmit text transfer system according to the present invention; FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a forward transfer status of the transmit text transfer system according to the present invention; and FIG. 8B is a diagram showing a backward transfer status of the transmit text transfer system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Turning now to FIG. 5, a motor gear 102 is fixed to an axis of a driving motor 101 that generates driving force, and then one end of a gear lever 103 is inserted into the motor gear 102 and the other end of the gear lever 103, to which a pinion gear 104 is inserted with an axis 103A, is engaged with the motor gear 102. A first idler gear 105 is placed in engagement with the pinion gear 104, the first idler gear 105 and the motor gear 102 are engaged with reduction gears 106, respectively, and the reduction gears 106 are engaged with idler gears 106A. And the idler gear 106A on the part of the first idler gear 105 is engaged with the feed gear 107, the idler gear 106A on the part of the motor gear 102 is engaged with another main gear 107A, teeth of the reduction gear 106, of which teeth are engaged with the first idler gear 105, are engaged with teeth of a second idler gear 105A therebelow, and the second idler gear 105A is tooth-engaged with a third idler gear 105B. The first and the third idler gears 105, 105B are located at a place to be engaged with the pinion gear 104 when the gear lever 103, which links the pinion gear 104, rotates upward, downward, i.e., forward and backward centered around the motor gear 102. In addition, axial hole of the main gear 107A, into which a one-way bearing 110 is inserted, is assembled with an axis end of the main gear 107A. And the feed gear 107 is inserted into axis of the feed roller 108 and a pinch roller 115 is in close contact with circumference of the feed roller 108. And the main roller 109 has a separation rubber plate 111 thereon. In the above composition, the feed roller 108 and the main roller 109 have the same outer diameter, thereby linear velocity V F of feed roller 108 and linear velocity V M of the main roller 109 becomes the same as well. In the diagrams, of the numerals that are not described yet, numeral 112 represents a text sensor for checking, whether or not there is a sheet of text, numeral 113 represents reading sensor, and numeral 114 represents read start sensor. In the present invention having the composition described above, the feed roller 108 and the main roller 109 have the same linear velocity so that sheet of text can be fed at the same velocity of V F =V M regardless of whether the sheet of text is bitten by the main roller 109 or by the feed roller 108, and interval between sheets of text is generated by controlling direction of rotation of the motor gear 102 and by the gear lever 103 and the one-way bearing 110 that is attached to the main gear 109. Turning now to more detailed description of the above said generation of the interval, when a sheet of text is bitten in-between the main roller 109 and the separation rubber 111, the text sensor 112 senses the text and drives the main roller 109 in the forward direction, i.e., to the direction, which is text transfer direction, pointed by arrow that is illustrated in FIG. 6A. The sheet of text fed by the main roller 109 is sensed by the read start sensor 114 and travels across a transfer distance L and reading is performed at the reading sensor 113. And then the text continues to be transferred and at the times when the text is bitten by the feed roller 108, i.e., at the time when the text is transferred as far as a transfer distance L1 (=A distance) sensed by the read start sensor 114 (here, the text is bitten by the main roller 109 and the feed roller 108 but there is no problem in text transfer. That is, when there is a linear velocity difference because of difference in diameter of the two rollers, the sheet of text bitten in between the two rollers get wrinkled), the gear lever 103 to downward direction, then pinion gear 104 is driven in close contact with the third idler gear 105B and thereby, the main roller 109 driven in the reverse direction (i.e., clockwise direction) as described in FIG. 6B. Herein, the feed roller 108 rotates with the pinion gear 106 and idler gears 105, 105A, 105B, but no driving force is transferred to the main roller 109 due to the one-way bearing 110, thereby the next sheet of text remains stopped. Accordingly, an interval is generated between the first and the next sheet of text. And the first sheet of text is transferred as far as distance L2 and feeding of the first sheet of text is completed when the sheet of text leaves the feed roller 108. And then, the next sheet of text at the main roller 109 is sensed by the text sensor 112 and motor is driven again in forward direction, i.e., text feeding direction pointed by the arrow as shown in FIG. 6A, thereby, the next sheet of text is fed and the operation described in the foregoing is repeated again. Here, if no sheet of text is sensed by the text sensor 112, the transmit text transfer system stops at the state where the first text has left the feed roller 108. As described in the foregoing, the present invention has an effect that full reproduction of a transmitted text by feeding sheet of text at a sustained velocity every time, and an advantage that reliability of product function is improved by maintaining interval between the first and the next sheets of text regardless size of sheet of text size by changing rotation direction of the transfer system.
A transmit text transfer device of a facsimile capable of performing full reproduction of transmit text and error-free feeding of text. A feed roller and a main roller having the same linear velocity are provided to enable sustained text feeding velocity and regularity in interval between a first and a second texts is realized by controlling direction of rotation of a motor gear and by utilizing a gear lever and a one-way bearing that is attached to a main gear.
7
RELATED APPLICATION This application is a division of application Ser. No. 13/810,782 filed Jan. 17, 2013, which in turn is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No. PCT/SG2010/000314, filed Aug. 26, 2010, each of which is hereby fully incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD Embodiments relate to apparatus and methods for the generation of power, particularly but not limited to green energy technologies harnessing energy from natural and/or renewable fluid energy sources for conversion into electricity, torque or other useful forms of power, such as wind turbines or generators. BACKGROUND Wind energy has used for powering machinery since ancient times. Since then, the need to generate power from greener and renewable sources like the wind has become ever more urgent, and wind turbines have been developed for the production of electrical power. In spite of this, wind power has seldom succeeded in commercial terms, owing to the variability of the supply of wind over time and geography. Typically, wind turbines operating in areas with consistently high wind speeds tend to be the most commercially viable, but such sites are rare. Different wind turbine designs have been developed for use in different scenarios and applications. For example, they may be classified according to whether the blades of the wind vane rotate about an axis of a shaft which is horizontally or vertically disposed. Horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) tend to be more commonly deployed as they tend to be more efficient: this is a result of blade rotation in a direction perpendicular to the direction of wind flow so that they receive energy through the entire cycle during rotation. However, they suffer various disadvantages, not least in the sheer height, size and weight of the towers and the blades, which makes installation, operation and maintenance extremely costly. They also need careful positioning into the wind, are unlikely to work well in conditions where the wind is variable in speed and direction. Such wind turbines are also potentially disruptive, in the visual sense as well as to anything from wildlife, to the transmissions of radio signals. Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are inherently less efficient as the blades receive energy from the wind for only a part of its rotation cycle during which it is “blown” forward. For much of the remaining part of the cycle, the blade rotates in a direction substantially against the direction of wind flow. This can be contrasted with HAWTs, in which the wind energy is captured by the blade throughout its cycle. This will be described in further detail below; suffice it here to say that a large part of the energy captured from the wind is typically lost due to drag when the rotor blade travels into the wind as it goes through its cycle. VAWTs nonetheless have the advantage of being capable of harvesting power from winds of lower and more variable speeds. They tend to be smaller and lighter, and can be deployed at lower heights, resulting in reduced conspicuousness, installation and maintenance costs. This allows them to be used in a greater variety of locations. With their otherwise advantageous characteristics, attempts have been improve the efficiency of VAWTs. By way of example, US 2007/0241567 describes the use of guides to bias or channel the wind onto the rotor blades, which enhances the turbine's use in a variety of locations regardless of wind direction. A commercially-available VAWT marketed under the name of “StatoEolien” by Gual Industrie of France (http://www.gualstatoeolien.com/English/defaultang.html) includes a similar guide device. Although this helps to increase the effect of the available wind on the rotor blades, the overall efficiency of output remains poor, as the wind energy captured by the blade is later “given up” when the blade backtracks against the wind during the later stage in its cycle. As may be expected, this is a factor seriously affecting the efficiency of the turbine in the generation of electrical power, especially in low wind velocity areas where VAWTs are deployed, where any such loss is especially keenly felt. It would be desirable to improve the efficiency of wind turbines, especially VAWTs. SUMMARY An embodiment relates to a guiding apparatus for guiding a flow of a fluid for use with a rotor, the rotor comprising an annular radial vane assembly having a plurality of vanes surrounding a central space sandwiched between covers, the rotor being arranged to rotate about a vertical axis, the guiding apparatus comprising a screening arranged to define in the central space a plurality of zones including a fluid intake zone for entry of the fluid into the central space, a fluid exhaust zone for exit of the fluid from the central space, and fluid retention zones for discouraging the fluid from leaving the central space, wherein in use the fluid is guided by the screening to substantially circulate about the vertical axis within the central space in the same direction as rotor travel. By managing not only the entry of an airflow into the turbine, but also its movement within, and its exit from, the turbine, the level of turbulence and drag generated can be reduced within a VAWT, especially in the zones away from the immediate high pressure impact of the oncoming wind. Causing the airflow to circulate in the same direction as the rotor movement, by guiding it through different zones of the central space within a radial rotor arrangement helps reduce the levels of drag which generate a back force against the desired rotor direction. In further embodiments, the airflow is guided out of the rotor and turbine in a manner which pushes on the vanes of the rotor, resulting in the harvesting of the energy from the wind twice: once on the windward side (as the air flows into the turbine) as well as when the air exits the turbine. In another embodiment, a wind turbine system comprises a rotor comprising an annular radial vane assembly surrounding a central space, and arranged to rotate about a vertical axis, operatively connected to a guiding apparatus. In another embodiment, a method of guiding a flow of a fluid for use with a rotor, the rotor comprising an annular radial vane assembly surrounding a central space sandwiched between covers, the rotor being arranged to rotate about a vertical axis, comprises using a screening to define in the central space a plurality of zones including a fluid intake zone for entry of the fluid into the central space, a fluid exhaust zone for exit of the fluid from the central space, and fluid retention zones for discouraging the fluid from leaving the central space, and using the screening to guide the fluid to substantially circulate about the vertical axis within the central space in the same direction as rotor travel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of a wind turbine according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view of the wind turbine of FIG. 1 . FIGS. 3A , 3 B and 3 C are schematic views of the rotor vanes and guide slats used in an embodiment of the wind turbine. FIG. 4 depicts the operation of the wind turbine according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 depicts in detail the operation of the wind turbine in the intake zone according to an embodiment. FIGS. 6A and 6B depict in detail the operation of the wind turbine in the boundary zones according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 depicts in detail the operation of the wind turbine in the exhaust zone according to an embodiment. FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic views of single and arrayed implementations of the wind turbine according to embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION FIG. 1 is a top view of a vertical axis wind turbine ( 2 ), which is arranged to rotate about a vertical axis ( 4 ) for use in harnessing of wind (W) energy to generate usable torque, including electrical power. As the skilled person would appreciate, the term “vertical axis wind turbine” (VAWT) serves primarily to distinguish this type of turbine from a horizontal axis turbine. The axis about which the turbine rotates need not be precisely vertical, as long as the turbine blades or vanes are caused to rotate in a substantially horizontal direction during use. As noted above, VAWTs are capable of operation in lower velocity winds, and it is anticipated that the turbine of the invention can produce useful results with wind velocities as low as 5 km/h. As can be seen in the drawings, the turbine includes three ring arrays of blades or vanes surrounding a central section or space ( 18 ). The ring arrays are substantially concentric with each other and with a central axis ( 4 ). The outer ring ( 10 ) and the inner ring ( 14 ) are air guide assemblies in the form of stators, which direct and control air flow towards, into, through, and out of the rotor assembly ( 6 ). The annular rotor assembly is the middle of the three rings. As is well known, rotor movement caused by the pushing force of a fluid flow on its vanes produces torque which can be used to drive e.g. a generator (not shown), to work pumps, grinding wheels, or the like. In the embodiment shown, the rotor is made up of a plurality of vanes ( 8 ) which each extend substantially radially outwards from the axis ( 4 ). The rotor vanes are positioned vertically within the turbine, and in plan view, each are angled so as to be slightly offset from the true radial of the axis. The vanes can alternatively comprise straight blades arranged in a true radial configuration, but preferably they are asymmetric airfoils e.g. of the types shown in FIG. 3A . The vanes comprise a concave surface on the windward side ( 26 ) which allows the wind to be initially “caught” and then to flow off the curved surface, for increased efficiency in extracting energy out of the available wind. As is known, during use the combination of the pushing effect on the higher pressure windward side together with the suction effect caused by the lower pressure the leeward side causes the vane to move and generates lift. In an exemplary embodiment, an asymmetric rotor 18 m long (or tall, when put into position within the turbine) has a chord of about 1.2 m (viewed above), and a maximum thickness of 0.2 m in the middle section which thickness reduces gradually towards each end. The exact optimal profile of the vanes is dependent on the overall size and configuration of the turbine the rest of the components, which is in turn determined for each turbine based on the specifics of each site and the desired performance and output. FIG. 2 shows a side view of the turbine (of which only the outer guide assembly ( 10 ) is visible), which is held within a framework such as a space frame comprising an upper support ( 20 ), a base support ( 22 ), and optional columns ( 24 ) to raise the unit into the path of the wind where necessary. Further views of the turbine held within the space frame can be seen in FIGS. 8A and 8B , where it can be seen that the section of the framework accommodating the turbine component has a drum-like structure. The space frame can be made from reinforced concrete and steel, and in the exemplary embodiment appropriate to accommodate rotors of the size referred to above, the space frame may have an overall diameter of about 35 m across, and a height of about 20 m. The rotor vanes held in position at each end between a pair of annular brackets or guide rails which are respectively attached to the upper and base supports of the space frame. The guide rails prevent the vanes from slipping out of position during movement. The vanes themselves can all be attached to annular tracks at each end, which during use travel within the corresponding brackets, which ensures that all the vanes rotate as a single unit. In an implementation of the size discussed above however, it would be difficult to manufacture, transport and to install the rotors in a single assembly. In such cases, one or more rotor vanes can be provided with a section of track which during installation can be bolted together. The skilled person would appreciate that a variety of alternatives are available for the location of the rotor vanes within the turbine. For example, the rotor vanes can all be fixed at each end to plates which rotate about the axis, which obviate the need for guide rails or tracks. To reduce the weight and inertia of the rotor assembly, the vanes may be constructed with a foam core and an epoxy composite matrix outer covering, which may be carbon-reinforced. The rotor vanes have generally fixed positions within the rotor assembly, although they can optionally and preferably be provided with a teetering hub assembly, which will enable it to assume a reduced pitch in the event of destructively high winds to prevent or reduce damage to the vane. The position of each rotor vane is fixed relative to each other, although the distance between vanes and the dimensions of each vane may vary in dependence on the desired performance and output of the turbine. The turbine further and preferably includes a synchronizer for improved performance. It was found that the rotor vanes may rotate at different speeds at each end. This is due at least in part to the fact that the lower section of the rotors are operatively coupled to gearing to drive a generator, while the upper sections carried no load. As might be anticipated, the rotors will suffer from strain during use from and may at an extreme, warp or break. The synchronizer can take a variety of forms, but one solution would be to place a similar load at the top end of the vanes, e.g. in the form of identical gearing, which will lockstep the rotational speeds of both ends of the rotor vanes. Turning now to the guide assembly arrays, the blade or vanes of the outer ( 10 ) and inner ( 14 ) guide assemblies are referred to in this description as slats or screening (respectively, 12 and 16 ), to ease their description and to distinguish them from the vanes ( 8 ) of the rotor assembly. In the embodiment discussed here, the slats are louvered so that when they assume a “closed” position, the edges of the slats either almost or actually touch or overlap so that to prevent or at least discourage air from passing through. The guide assemblies' primary purpose is to enable the rotor maximise extraction of usable energy from a given volume of airflow, while seeking to significantly reduce the amount of friction and drag caused when the airflow is vented from the closed central space and through the rotor vanes. Even though the desired effect is in part obtained by each guide assembly separately, the operations of the two sets of assemblies augment each other so that an optimal set up would involve the use of both assemblies working in cooperation with each other. As can be seen in the drawing, the slats of the guide assemblies ( 10 and 14 ) are arranged so that certain parts of the rotor assembly are open to its surroundings, while other sections are slatted shut, substantially screening the rotor vanes (and the central space within) from their surroundings outside the turbine. During operation, the arrangement of the slats for both inner and outer guide stators remain unchanged for a given wind direction. To accommodate a different wind direction, the slats of each guide arrays can be re-angled to assume the same configuration pointing into the new wind direction. Alternatively, the guide ring arrays (preserving the slat configuration shown in the drawings and as discussed below) can be manually rotated relative to the rotor assembly to its new position, or else the entire turbine can be turned around, if feasible, e.g. in a smaller turbine. Given the proposed size of the turbine however, the guide assembly re-configuration process can be motorized to obtain the slat configuration relative to the new wind direction, but the slats of smaller rotor vanes could be adjusted by hand. Changes to the slat positions within the assemblies can be made manually, or else a sensing system could be used to automatically respond to changes in wind directions, velocities and the like which would require a reconfiguration in the guide slat angles. The outer guide assembly ( 10 ) serves primarily to shape the air flowing towards and into the turbine by controlling the intake of air into the turbine, and to enable the exhaustion of air from the turbine with reduced turbulence on the other, by controlling the exhaustion of air from the turbine. In this embodiment, the slats of the outer guide can comprise a straight or a curved stator as shown respectively in FIGS. 3B and 3C . It is relatively thin to cause minimal obstruction to the wind, and so are preferably made to be as thin, smooth and short a surface as possible. They are disposed very near to the trailing edge of the rotor vanes (e.g. in the order of millimeters, where possible), as this improves rotor efficiency. The slats can be made from steel or aluminum. While the slats tend not to be moved during operation of the turbine for a given wind direction, they can nonetheless be made to be moveable in embodiments to allow them to be re-configured e.g. to work with a different wind direction. This also allows for control of the amount of air allowed into the turbine, to cope with higher or lower velocities of wind, and in extreme cases (e.g. in a typhoon or a sandstorm which will injure the apparatus, necessitating the shutdown of the turbine), all the slats can be completely closed all around, preventing any air from blowing into the turbine. The use of teetering hub rotor vanes described above would nonetheless be beneficial to protect the expensive rotor vanes in an event of high wind, as they are likely to respond to such otherwise-catastrophic conditions than slat closure of the outer guide assembly. On the airflow intake aspect, the slats of the outer guide assembly on the windward side of the turbine are therefore arranged so that as much of the air flow is “caught” and directed into the turbine to the rotor blades as is possible by changing the wind direction if necessary, to optimize the airflow's angle of “attack” on the rotor vanes. For example, it can be seen from FIG. 1 that the vanes at the 7 o'clock position are in a fully open position and positioned to “scoop” airflow which otherwise might have travelled around the turbine, into the turbine to “feed” the flow to the rotor vanes and push them along to rotate in a clockwise direction as depicted by the arrow “X”. In this way, the effective footprint of the wind harvesting surface of the turbine is significantly enlarged on the windward side of the turbine, to the zone between the 7 and 12 o'clock positions. On the leeward side of the turbine, the slats are also positioned in an open position. They are angled so that air exiting the turbine is again guided to travel in the direction of rotor movement “X.” This ensures that the airflow out of the turbine does not interrupt the continued rotation of the rotor assembly in the clockwise direction and slow its progress. On the two sides of the turbine orthogonal to the wind direction, the outer guide slats are substantially closed or screened off. In the example discussed here, the screening is achieved by closing the slats; it would be within the scope of the invention to provide other screening means e.g. in the form of a single screen extending the length of the section requiring to be closed off—this could be deployed e.g. in a smaller turbine, where the guide ring arrays can be moved relative to the rotor assembly. The effect and working of the overall arrangement of slats in the outer guide arrangement during use will be discussed below in connection with FIG. 4 . The outer guide vane array is, in the exemplary embodiment, attached at each end to the upper and base supports of the space frame. Turning now to the inner guide assembly ( 14 ), these slats ( 16 ) are also arranged to create sections or zones which are open or closed to the turbine surroundings. The main function of the inner guide assembly is to guide and control the flow of air within the central space after it enters the turbine, with the aim of reducing the amount of turbulence and drag and frictional losses that adversely affects the turning of the rotor assembly and its overall efficiency. Like the slats of the outer guide, the inner stator slats also take the form of thin sheets which are cambered along its length in embodiments. They can also have a small chord like the moveable leading edge of a wing, allowing for each to be moveable independently of each other about its own axis. This flexibility allows for airflow to make contact at an optimal angle with the leading edge of the rotor vanes during operation. The inner slats can be made from metal or a fiberglass epoxy composite material. They are also disposed very near to the trailing edge of the rotor vanes for greater rotor efficiency. In the main, the slats ( 16 ) of the inner assembly are arranged in such a way so that, like the slats of the outer guide assembly, it is open on the windward and leeward sides, while being substantially closed in the other two sections on the sides orthogonal to the direction of wind. The exact angle of each inner guide slat is additionally positioned to encourage the circulation of the airflow in the central space around the turbine axis in the same direction of the rotor travel, as will be described further below in connection with FIG. 4 . The central space ( 18 ) defined by the inner guide ring array is substantially but not fully enclosed by covers (not shown, but which can take the form of discs or the like) along the plane transverse to the vertical axis of the turbine. The covers are disposed within the upper and base support structures ( 20 , 22 ) of the space frame so that they “sandwich” the central space in a manner which nonetheless allows the rotor vanes to freely move. They can also be viewed as the roof and floor of the turbine. In a very large implementation, a pillar or post may be placed through the central axis of the turbine to help hold the roof up; this is however not necessary to the operation. This arrangement prevents or discourages air from entering into or escaping from the central space in a direction parallel to the vertical axis of the turbine, so that air is constrained to flow to and from the closed central space only in a substantially horizontal direction via the spaces between the rotor vanes and the guide assembly slats ( 10 , 14 ). The skilled person would realize that the covers need only to cover the central space to achieve the enclosing effect, but that they can also cover the rotor assembly as well as the guide arrays for ease of assembly and maintenance; fuller coverage can also help in preventing air from leaking out of the central space. They can also be made of a lightweight or any other material and take any configuration as long as it is capable of discouraging or preventing air leakage from or entry into, the central space. FIG. 4 is a depiction of the operation of the embodiment of the turbine shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . In this figure, the central space ( 18 ) is shown to be divided into four zones: an “intake zone” (zone “A”, between the 7 and 12 o'clock positions), a first “boundary zone” (zone “B”, between the 12 and 2 o'clock positions), an “exhaust zone” (zone “C”, between the 2 an 5 o'clock positions), and a second “boundary zone” (zone “D”, between the 5 and 7 o'clock positions). In the drawings, the wind (W) is shown blowing from left to right, and the desired direction of rotation of the turbine is in a clockwise direction “X.” The windward side of the turbine is an area of higher pressure than the leeward side. In the intake zone “A,” wind outside the turbine is “gathered” by the slats ( 16 ) of the outer guide assembly ( 14 ) and channeled towards the vanes ( 8 ) of the rotor ( 6 ). Because of the open radial configuration of the outer slats in the intake zone (especially around the 9 o'clock position), wind can flow directly to the vanes of the rotor as shown in detail in FIGS. 4 and 5 . In conventional VAWTs without use of the outer guide assembly, it may be expected that the wind will usefully impinge on the rotor vanes only in the region between the 9 and 12 o'clock positions. With use of the outer guide stator however, airflow that might otherwise have flowed around the turbine and be lost, is instead captured and “scooped” (by changing the direction of the flow of air) into the turbine to push the rotor vanes in the desired direction “X”. This contributes to an increase in the pushing force on the rotor and to the increased efficiency of the turbine as a whole. As noted above, most of the usable wind energy in VAWTs is extracted on the windward side where the air flows directly push on the vanes. In a conventional VAWT set up there is no force pushing on the vanes at any other region, so that during the “return journey,” the rotor assembly is particularly susceptible to the effects of drag. Where the wind force is greater than drag, a net positive force is obtained which can be used to drive a generator. Where the driving force is equal to or less than drag, no energy can be harnessed. It is therefore important to minimize the effect of drag on the system. After the air flow had been guided onto the rotor vane, it flows into the central space, as depicted by the arrows “W.” In conventional turbines, the exit of air flow from the turbine is not managed, so that turbulence in the form of air eddies builds up within the central space and/or around the rotor vanes. This contributes to the creation of friction and drag within the system which adversely affects the continued rotation of the rotor in the desired direction, especially on the “return journey” of the rotor assembly. Where the drag equals or exceeds the pushing force on the rotor vanes, no useful torque will be produced to turn a generator or do other work. The inner guide vanes of the invention per the exemplary implementation address this problem by managing the airflows within the central space. Specifically, the air is guided within the central space to circulate (i.e. to travel in a substantially circular, in whole or part, or arcuate, or curved manner) about the central axis of the turbine in the same direction as the desired rotational direction “X” of the rotor vanes. Managing the airflows in this manner reduces the levels of turbulence built up within the central space, and has the added benefit of causing the air to impinge onto the rotor vanes on the leeward side of the turbine, at an angle which imparts a driving force in the desired direction of rotor travel. In the main, this is achieved by positioning the slats of the inner guide at varying angles around its circumference, in dependence on the desired direction the airflow is to travel in at various zones within the turbine. Thus air within the central space can be, depending on which zone it is located at, selectively guided towards and through the vanes of the rotor, or else be screened away. All the air initially entering into the intake zone within the central space, is directed in a clockwise direction towards the first boundary zone as indicated by the arrows “W.” The slats of the inner guide in the intake zone “A” are angled substantially in the same direction as the slats of the outer guide, in an open position, as can be seen from the detailed depiction of interaction between the slats of the two guide assemblies and the rotor vane in FIG. 5 . The airflow (W) is guided from outside the turbine through the gaps between the outer guide slats ( 12 ) to impinge onto the rotor vanes ( 8 ) at a desired angle. Instead of being allowed to enter the central space in an uncontrolled manner to find its own way around and eventually out of the turbine, the airflow passing through the rotor assembly is directed to the first boundary zone B by the slats of the inner stator assembly. As can be seen in FIGS. 4 and 6A , the slats of both the inner and outer guide assemblies at the first boundary zone “B” are closed or almost closed so that little or no air can flow out of the central space to the rotor vanes. Screening off this section reduces the impact of back forces on the vanes interrupting the continued smooth movement of the rotor. The orientation of the slats in this region further serves to encourage the flow to change direction and move on to the next zone which is the exhaust zone “C,” located on the leeward side of the turbine. In the air exhaust zone “C” shown in FIGS. 4 and 7 , the slats of both the inner and outer guide assemblies are open and oriented towards the second boundary zone “D,” which encourages the air to flow in the same direction as the direction of rotor vane travel. The airflow velocity which would have decreased after entry into the turbine, picks up again especially in this zone by the suction effects of the low pressure area lying outside the turbine on its leeward side (at about the 3 o'clock position) to flow to and out of the turbine via the exhaust zone. The slats of the inner guide in this zone are specifically pitched at angles to encourage the exiting air to contact the leading edge of the rotor vane at a desired angle of attack to impart a pushing force on the vanes in the exhaust zone. This advantageously uses the exhausting air which otherwise would have exerted a back pressure against the direction of rotor travel, to good effect as a second source of positive pushing force on the rotor vanes on the leeward side of the turbine. It may be anticipated that much of the air flow entering the central space would leave the chamber from the exhaust zone “C.” What air is left continues to circulate around the central axis of the turbine in the direction “X” through the second boundary zone “D” where the slats of both guide assemblies are configured to prevent or discourage the air from exiting the central space. The slat configuration of the guide assemblies is similar to that deployed in the first boundary zone, as depicted in detail in FIG. 6B . FIG. 4 shows an arrangement in which that those inner guide slats in the region closer to the exhaust zone are in a substantially closed position. The slats nearer to the intake zone are in a more open position in that they are angled to allow a fresh airflow travelling from left to right from outside the turbine to enter into the intake zone, while being angled against the circulating airflow within the central space which is travelling in the opposite direction, from right to left, or counter-clockwise. This encourages the airflow within the central space to change direction so that it re-enters the intake zone to be mingled with a new airflow which will go through the cycle within the central space in the manner described above. In summary, the guide assemblies ( 10 , 14 ) are configured to cause or to encourage an airflow to: impinge onto the rotor at a desired angle of attack in the region of intake zone, change direction in the first boundary zone so as to reduce drag by not exiting the turbine at this area, impinge onto the rotor at a desired angle of attack in the region of the exhaust zone, and change direction in the second boundary zone so as to reduce drag by not exiting the turbine at this area. As noted above, the greatest advantage can be obtained with the operation of the inner and outer guide assemblies in conjunction with each other. It is however possible to get some of the advantages, chiefly in the form of reduced drag within the turbine, by using one of the assemblies to a greater extent than the other. For example, use of the inner guide assembly (configured in the manner described above) alone could have such an effect. Alternatively, an outer guide assembly having all its slats identically angled (i.e. having not screened sections) used with an inner stator may also be also serve to achieve a reduction in drag. Another alternative is the deployment of an inner guide assembly with moveable slats which will help ameliorate the turbulence within the central space. As shown FIG. 2 above, the turbine can be housed in a framework such as a space frame which is a single independent unit. FIG. 8A is another depiction of such a unit, and FIG. 8B shows an implementation of the turbine comprising an array of similar turbines which may be stacked or arrayed one on top of each other. Where it is intended that a number of turbines be deployed, the framework (particularly the columns) can be made from steel in embodiments so that additional units can be added as needed in a modular fashion. It would be realized that the turbine is not restricted to use only with wind or airflows. The description herein is capable of operation with any fluid flow (including liquids such as sea or river water), with necessary modifications which remain within the scope of the inventive concept. Other modifications and additions could be made to the turbine unit to improve its usability, such as fittings for a mesh to protect the slats and vanes from intruders (human and animal), walk-around platforms for cleaning and maintenance purposes, and the like.
Embodiments relate to a guiding apparatus, a wind turbine system, and methods related thereto. In an embodiment, a guiding apparatus for guiding a flow of a fluid for use with a rotor, the rotor comprising an annular radial vane assembly surrounding a central space which is enclosed save via the vane assembly and being arranged to rotate about a vertical axis, includes a screening for guiding the fluid to circulate substantially about the vertical axis within the central space in the same direction as the rotor during use, wherein the screening comprises an inner guide array concentrically surrounded by the vane assembly.
5
REFERENCE TO EARLIER APPLICATION This Application incorporates and claims the benefit of U.S Provisional Application No. 60/270,162, filed Feb. 22, 2001, now abandoned by P.C. Chen entitled Magnetorheological Damper and Damping Method. GOVERNMENT RIGHTS This invention was made with U.S. Government support under Contract No. DAAD17-01-C-0008 awarded by the Army Research Laboratory. The U.S. Government has certain rights in the invention. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Many devices, such as turreted artillery, aircraft landing gear, various kinds of reciprocating machinery, vehicle shock absorbers and struts, seismic event attenuation devices, etc., undergo or isolate severe impulse loading, that is high loading over very short durations. Proper handling of these loading conditions typically is essential to the survival, if not the proper functioning of the device. For example, the accuracy of stabilized turreted, rapid-fire gun systems is limited by the structural flexibility of the gun barrel and the gun mounting structure. To improve the accuracy of sustained rounds, high frequency recoil forces that excite the structural dynamics of the turret must be dissipated. Although artillery applications are referred to prominently herein, the principles and embodiments of the invention described below apply to any application with respect to which severe impulse loading is of concern. Referring to FIG. 1, some high-caliber, rapid-fire guns G employ damping systems D to damp recoil forces transmitted to the gun mounting structure, or fork F, along a direction T that is generally aligned with gun trajectory. Typically, damping systems D rely on passive dampers. As shown in FIG. 2, a passive damper 10 typically includes a cylinder 15 , having a chamber that contains a working fluid. A piston 25 has a head 30 , received in chamber 20 , and a piston rod 35 extending from head 30 and through an aperture 40 in cylinder 15 . The head 30 is moveable within the cylinder between ends 31 and 32 , and typically has apertures or valves (not shown) that pass working fluid as head 30 moves against the working fluid. Alternatively, head 30 and chamber 20 may define a narrow passage (not shown) through which the working fluid passes. Cylinder 15 defines a first eye 45 , or other mounting convention, for installation to fork F. Piston rod 35 terminates in a second eye 50 , or other mounting convention, for installation to gun G. A first spring retainer 55 , connected to cylinder 15 , and a second spring retainer 60 , connected to piston rod 35 , retain a recoil spring (not shown in FIG. 2, but see recoil spring 165 in FIG. 6) that biases piston 30 relative to cylinder 15 into a battery position. When gun G discharges, gun G recoils with a force that urges piston 30 and cylinder 15 to translate relatively, against a restoring force of the recoil spring 62 and the viscous force of the working fluid against which piston 30 works. As piston 30 works against the working fluid, the working fluid becomes heated in an amount corresponding to the work. Thus, the energy associated with a recoil force is converted into or dissipated in the form of heat. Energy dissipation directly corresponds to the viscosity of the working fluid. Viscosity is a measure of the resistence of fluid to angular deformation. That is, as viscosity or fluid resistence increases, the amount of work which a piston must undertake to move relative to the associated cylinder increases. Increasing the work that the piston exerts against the fluid increases the heat content or temperature of the fluid. The amount of heat generated and dispersed by the working fluid directly corresponds to the amount of recoil energy dissipated. In other words, increasing the viscosity of the working fluid which, during recoil, causes the piston to generate more heat in the working fluid, results in dissipating more energy of the recoil. If the amount of energy a damper dissipates is too little, gun G recoils against forks F with an impact that can distort the forks F, adversely effecting gun accuracy, and can damage the forks F, associated electronics and other non-isolated physical structures. Large loads not damped, but transferred to, for example, the frame of a helicopter or other mobile gun transport, also will adversely impact transport handling properties or render the transport unstable or uncontrollable. If the amount of energy dissipated is too much, the gun recoil may be insufficient to compress the recoil spring, which in turn may prevent the gun from returning to the battery position. If gun G does not return to the battery position, gun G may not be able to expel spent cartridges, receive a new round or may experience other failures. Accordingly, energy dissipation must be carefully managed or predicted so that gun G is more accurate and does not prematurely breakdown due to inadequate recoil energy dissipation, or fail due to overly aggressive energy dissipation. Passive dampers can not adequately damp guns because the amount of energy which passive dampers dissipate generally remains constant, whereas the recoil energy varies. A typical passive damper employs a working fluid that has a generally fixed or predictable viscosity. Fixed viscosity results in generally constant energy dissipation. Accordingly, a working fluid selected for a passive damper may be appropriate for damping a minimum anticipated recoil energy. In order to ensure that a recoil spring returns a gun to battery position. The amount of damping provided in such arrangements generally falls well short of most recoils realized. Consequently, less than an optimal amount of recoil energy is dissipated by the fluid. On the other hand, the amount of recoil energy realized varies according to factors such as round temperature, age, production facility, etc. Consequently, guns and gun mounts experience higher recoil forces than necessary, which introduces structural instabilities that adversely impacts accuracy. Guns and gun mounts also wear much faster than if equipped with more effective damping. Although not in the context of artillery, dampers exist that provide for varying damping. Some variable dampers include actuated valves for controlling, thereby impacting effective damping, of the damper. However, these dampers rely on moving components to adjust damping, which is cumbersome and not readily adaptable to rapid extreme impulse loads. Other variable dampers eliminate the mechanical viscosity control components by utilizing active working fluids having viscous properties that change under the influence of electric or magnetic fields. Active fluids, such as Magnetorheological (MR) and Electrorheological (ER) fluids, have the unique ability to change properties when electric or magnetic fields are applied thereacross, respectively. This change mainly is manifested as a substantial increase in the dynamic yield stress, or apparent viscosity, of the fluid. MR fluids are preferred because of their superior performance. For example, as compared to ER fluids, MR fluids possess an order of magnitude higher yield stress and a much wider operating temperature range. Specifically, the COTS MR fluid, VersaFlo™ by the Lord Corporation, is far less sensitive to contaminants than ER fluids and can be operated in a temperature range from −40 to 150 degrees Celsius. A key advantage of MR fluids is that they require activation voltages of less than 100 volts, an order of magnitude less than ER fluids. This low-voltage operation capability is particularly attractive where heavy power amplifiers cannot be accommodated. In summary, the advantages of MR fluids derive from their ability to provide robust, rapid response interfaces between electronics controls and mechanical systems in real time. MR devices, such as rotary brakes and linear displacement dampers have been commercialized. However, while the overall use of MR fluid in these devices has increased, both in terms of effectiveness and creativity, the analytical modeling and systematic design aspects have lagged. To a large extent, this can be attributed to the complex phenomenological behavior of these fluids. MR fluids exhibit nonlinear effects due to applied field, applied load, strain amplitude, and frequency of excitation in dynamic displacement conditions. FIG. 3A is a schematic drawing of the COTS Lord Rheonetics™ damper, white FIG. 3B shows representative test data obtained from this device. The plots show the force vs. piston displacement and force vs. velocity behavior of typical MR damper designs as a function of applied field. The total energy dissipated by the damper is represented by the area within the hysteresis cycles on the force vs. displacement plot in FIG. 4 . As greater excitation voltages are applied, more energy is dissipated by the MR damper. This hysteretic response, in addition to the variable damper yield force, as shown in the force vs. velocity plots in FIG. 5, may be exploited in a full-scale flow mode damper for large, rapid fire guns to dissipate energy and to damp the dynamic response of the gun system. Like most MR and ER dampers available, the COTS Lord Rheonetics™ damper provides constant field excitation, for constant damping control, rather than variable, rapidly controllable, adaptive excitation field control for optimal damping. Consequently, COTS Lord Rheonetics™ dampers, although tunable to trace any of the hysteresis curves, when employed in a device, can only trace one of the hysteresis curves due to a constant applied field. In the development of the analysis of the recoil adapters, some consideration must be made as to the complexity of the underlying fluid mechanics analysis. The magnetorheological (MR) fluids to be used in the adapters are composed of a suspension of micron sized iron particles in a carrier fluid, typically silicone oil. In the following discussion, it must be realized that the physics of the flow through an MR damper are straightforward: high shear rate Poisieulle flow through an annular valve. The annular valve can be simplified to a rectangular valve using a small ratio assumption, that is, the ratio of the gap to the radius of the annular valve is small or   d/r <<1  (1) Thus, three options exist for developing an analysis of the flow through the annular valve: (1) particle interaction models, (2) continuum models, and (3) rheological models. The particle interaction models have a high computation load, thus are not helpful in modeling this complex. The continuum models only pertain to pre-yield behavior, thus are not particularly helpful in controlling a system that yields. However, the rheological models seem to be most useful for this application because such treat the fluid in bulk, rather that as individual particles; and relate the shear stress to the shear rate. The three most useful rheological models are: (1) Bingham-plastic, (2) Herschel-Bulkley, and (3) an Eyring-Prandtl-Re constitutive model. The first two models produce relationships between damper velocity and damper force. These models are limited to quasi-steady conditions. However, further research will lead to extending these models to a broader range of conditions. The Eyring model only allows for velocity to be expressed in terms of the force, and thus is not as useful a tool for as the other mentioned models. It is useful to summarize these models and to describe their deficiencies. The Bingham-plastic constitutive model can be expressed as: τ=τ y sgn ({dot over (γ)})+μ{dot over (γ)}  (2) A key point is that this model assumes that the fluid flows once the local shear stress has exceeded the dynamic yield stress, τ y , and the resulting viscous shear stress is additive and proportional to the strain rate, {dot over (γ)}, through the plastic or differential viscosity, μ. If the local shear stress is less than the dynamic yield stress, then the fluid does not flow, but is assumed to be rigid. Derivation of the damper force vs. velocity characteristic is the subject of Wereley and Pang (1998). The resulting discontinuity when transitioning across the zero shear rate condition leads to difficulties in dynamic modeling, but the Bingham-plastic model its more than adequate for design in the sense of predicting damping or energy dissipation of devices. A second problem with this model is that the post-yield viscosity is assumed to be constant, which is not the case in practice. On the other hand, the Herschel-Bulkley model more accurately captures the post yield behavior of the fluid, in that the viscosity can vary as a fractional derivative of the shear rate as below τ=τ y sgn ({dot over (γ)})+ K{dot over (γ)} n   (3) It should be noted that the preyield behavior of the Bingham-plastic and Herschel-Bulkley models is the same. Derivation of the damper force vs. velocity characteristic is the subject of Lee and Wereley (1999). The Herschel-Bulkley model can be expressed as a Bingham plastic model τ=τ ysgn ({dot over (γ)})+μ a {dot over (γ)}  (4) where the apparent viscosity introduced here is now a function of shear rate μ a =K{dot over (γ)} n−1   (5) This model is very useful in the analysis of dampers. The final model to be summarized is the Eyring model. This model has a constitutive equation of τ = 1 K  sinh       - 1  ( γ . ξ ) + μ     γ . ( 6 ) This model most accurately accounts for low strain rate behavior. Based on rheometer tests performed in the Smart Structures Laboratory at Maryland and elsewhere, the Herschel-Bulkley performs slightly better over the range of shear rates (>30,000/second) that are of interest to this project. All of the above models can be used to better predict fluid behavior and can be used as the basis for the analysis of dampers. However, it should be appreciated that additional terms must be added to the various models to accurately model the particular damper in question, such as: seal friction, bushing friction, nonlinear spring,effect of the pneumatic reservoir. Referring to FIG. 6, an exemplary active MR damper 100 includes a cylinder 115 , having a chamber 120 that contains an MR fluid. A piston 125 has a head 130 , received in chamber 120 , and a piston rod 135 extending from head 130 and through an aperture 140 in cylinder 115 . A first spring retainer 155 , connected to cylinder 115 , and a second spring retainer 160 , connected to piston rod 135 , retain a recoil spring 165 that biases piston 125 relative to cylinder 115 . Referring also to FIG. 7, head 130 includes a bobbin 170 which retains one or more electric coils 175 , each for selectably generating a magnetic field 180 . A flux return 177 , mounted on head 130 , encircles and defines with bobbin 170 a fluid channel 185 configured to course the MR fluid between annular apertures 127 in head 130 through an active region or zone of influence 190 of magnetic field 180 . When coil 175 energized, magnetic field 180 causes the MR fluid within active region 190 to assume a higher viscosity or resistence to flow, as described above. Piston 125 essentially “tears” or shears the MR fluid as piston 125 moves relative to cylinder 115 . At least portions of bobbin 170 and flux return 177 which are influenced by magnetic field 180 should be, but as practical matter are entirely, constructed from a high permeability magnetic steel material that will not become permanently magnetized over time. Otherwise, coursing the MR fluid through a fluid channel defined by a magnetized structure would activate the MR fluid and diminish the viscosity range or ability to alter the viscosity thereof. As shown, when bobbin 170 supports more than one coil 175 , adjacent coils 175 are wound so as to generate adjacent active regions 190 having like polarity, thereby defining an enhanced active region. A disadvantage of damper 100 is that significant portions thereof must be constructed from expensive high permeability magnetic steel material. Another disadvantage with damper 100 is that, with coils 175 fixed to piston 125 , delicate electrical wires 178 that energize coils 175 reciprocate with piston 125 , which may cause premature failure. Some devices avoid both problems by fixing the coils in a relatively small fluid valve constructed from a high permeability magnetic steel material. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,993,358, issued Nov. 30, 1999, to R. S. Gureghian et al, entitled Controllable Platform Suspension System for Treadmill Decks and the like and Devices Therefor. However, such valves are contained in complex fluid systems, rather than in a conventional fluid damper. Also, such fluid systems also are not substantial enough for damping gun recoil forces. MR damper control systems have been used to damp See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,582,385, issued Dec. 10, 1996, to F. P. Boyle et al., entitled Method for Controlling Motion Using an Adjustable Damper; U.S. Pat. No. 5,964,455, issued Oct. 12, 1999, to D. M. Catanzarite et al., entitled Method for Auto-Calibration of a Controllable Damper Suspension System; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,311,110, issued Oct. 30, 2001, to D. E. Ivers et al, entitled Adaptive Off-State Control Method. However, none of these methods provide for managing energy dissipation, rather intend to eliminate the energy entirely. To obtain more advantageous damping, gun dampers should provide variable damping for varying recoil energy dissipation as needed. To this end, damped gun systems should include variable dampers. Although a variable MR damper may be able to provide variable damping which more advantageously dissipates energy as needed, the damping provided also must be tailored to dissipate the specific energy associated with a particular round. To this end, the gun system should include an active damping system, wherein the damping of the MR damper is controlled based on the actual energy content of the round. What are needed, and not taught or suggested in the art, are an active, high-speed, high impulse damper and damping method. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention overcomes the disadvantages noted above by providing an active, high-speed, high impulse damper and damping method. The invention provides a damper including a cylinder, a piston defining in the cylinder a volume, a coil, fixed relative to the cylinder, configured to generate a magnetic field, and a fluid channel, configured to be influenced by the magnetic field, for one or both of providing fluid to and evacuating fluid from the volume. The invention also provides a damper including a cylinder, a piston defining in said cylinder a first volume and a second volume, a first fluid channel for one or both of providing fluid to and evacuating fluid from the first volume, first means for regulating flow through said first fluid channel, a second fluid channel for one or both of providing fluid to and evacuating fluid from the second volume, and second means for regulating flow through said second fluid channel, wherein said first fluid channel and said second fluid channel are in fluid communication. The Invention further provides a method of damping with a damper, having a cylinder and a piston defining in the cylinder a first volume and a second volume, including causing negative fluid pressure to resist a tendency of the piston from increasing the first volume, and causing positive fluid pressure to resist a tendency of the piston from decreasing the second volume. The invention additionally provides a gun system including a gun, a gun mount, and means for dissipating energy of a force exerted by the gun against the mount, wherein the means for dissipating is adjustable for dissipating different amounts of energy. The invention yet also provides a control system for controlling recoil forces produced in an automatic rapid fire gun mounted on a support and having a variable damping characteristic mounted between the gun and the support, the damper employing an electrically or magnetically active working fluid. According to the invention, the fluid may have a viscosity characteristic which varies in response to an applied electric or magnetic field. In an exemplary embodiment, a damper is employed including such fluid having a variable viscosity characteristic responsive to an applied magnetic or electrical signal. The fluid exhibits a first viscosity characteristic when electrically or magnetically activated and exhibits a second viscosity characteristic lower than the first viscosity characteristic when deactivated. The viscosity characteristic varyies in accordance with the output levels of the applied signal. A force measuring sensor responsively coupled to the gun produces signal indicative of the recoil force of the gun. An electrical circuit responsively coupled to force measuring sensor and operatively coupled to the damper produces an output signal having a selected output level, operative for activating the fluid in accordance there, for varying in real time the viscosity characteristic of the fluid and thereby varying the damping characteristic of the damper. The invention provides for reducing the number of coils needed in an MR damper, thereby reducing overall inductance in the associated magnetic circuit, thereby reducing the time constant of the circuit. The invention also provides for reducing the overall number of turns in a coil to achieve the appropriate levels of magnetic field, thereby reducing the time constant and allowing faster MR fluid response. This reduces the complexity of manufacture and weight. The more efficient use of electrical power in the channel reduces the amount of power required it also allows the use of smaller coils which result in better response characteristics, in particular, with respect to the circuit time constant. The invention provides for increasing the active length of a fluid channel by employing a C-shaped annular fluid channel which pneumatically amplifies the effectiveness of the device, thereby enabling a more compact design, and permitting the pneumatic reservoir to provide additional volume. Additional pneumatic reservoir volume, in turn, allows for a longer piston stroke and reduces the amount of expensive MR or ER fluid needed. The invention provides for reducing weight and cost of an MR damper by substantially reducing the volume of high permeability magnetic steel required in activatable regions of the damper. The invention provides for improving the mechanical force vs. velocity performance characteristics. The invention provides improved elements and arrangements thereof, for the purposes described, which are inexpensive, dependable and effective in accomplishing intended purposes of the invention. Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments which refers to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is described in detail below with reference to the following figures, throughout which similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently, wherein: FIG. 1 is schematic view of a gun, gun mount and recoil damper; FIG. 2 is a top front right perspective view of an embodiment of a passive damper; FIGS. 3A and 3B are a schematic view of a fluid test cylinder and a graphical view showing a force vs. velocity with respect to damping at various applied currents; FIGS. 4 and 5 are graphical views of hysteresis cycles respectively with respect to displacement and velocity; FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an embodiment of an MR damper; FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a portion within line VII of the embodiment of FIG. 6; FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a damper according to principles of the invention; FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a portion within line IX of the embodiment of FIG. 8; FIG. 10 is a schematic view of another embodiment of a damper according to principles of the invention; FIG. 11 is a finite element model of a turreted gun system; FIG. 12 is a graphical view of displacement vs. beam length of the model of FIG. 11; FIG. 13 is a graphical view of mode shape vs. beam length of the model of FIG. 11; FIG. 14 is a graphical view comparing passive damping vs. active recoil control; FIG. 15 is a graphical view of a dynamic range of an adjustable damper which may be controlled; FIG. 16 is a method of managing energy dissipation according to the invention; and FIG. 17 is an exemplary block diagram of a sensor S and an electrical circuit E operatively coupled to a gun G mounted on a fork F and having a MR damper according to the present invention coupled between gun G and fork F. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to FIG. 8, an MR damper 200 configured according to the invention includes a cylinder 205 , having a first end 206 and a second end 207 , that defines a chamber 210 for containing an MR working fluid. A piston 215 has a head 220 that is received in and divides chamber 210 into a first volume 236 and a second volume 235 . A piston rod 240 extends from head 220 and through an aperture 242 in a bobbin 245 A. Cylinder 205 may be fixed relative to the gun mount or fork F and piston rod 240 may be fixed relative to gun G, as shown in FIG. 1 . Damper 200 also includes a recoil spring 201 , preferably a plurality of spring washers, that biases piston 215 relative to cylinder 205 into a battery position, as described above with respect to damper 10 . Bobbin 245 A is fixed relative to cylinder 205 , proximate first end 206 . A second bobbin 245 B is fixed relative to cylinder 205 , positioned generally proximate where head 220 defines the end of the stroke of piston 215 . Referring to FIG. 9, each bobbin 245 has a slot 250 for retaining a coil 255 . Coil 255 is configured to generate a magnetic field 260 . A cylinder extension 265 is received in slot 250 and defines with slot 250 a fluid channel 270 . In the cross sections shown, fluid channel 270 has a C shape; in practice, fluid channel 270 defines a C-shaped annulus. Fluid channel 270 conveys MR fluid through a first active region or zone of influence 275 of magnetic field 260 then through a second active region 277 of magnetic field 260 . When coil 255 is energized, magnetic field 260 causes the MR fluid within active regions 275 and 277 to assume a higher viscosity, as described above. An important feature of fluid channel 270 is that fluid channel is configured to convey MR fluid perpendicularly to magnetic field 260 . When the MR fluid flows perpendicularly relative to magnetic field 260 , magnetic field 260 maximizes influence over the MR fluid. In other words, when magnetic field 260 is perpendicular to MR fluid flow, magnetic field 260 effects the maximum amount of increased dynamic yield stress or apparent viscosity of the MR fluid. Referring again to FIG. 8, an interior cylinder 280 connects with each cylinder extension 265 A and 265 B and defines with respect to cylinder 205 a passage 285 . Passage 285 is in fluid communication with fluid channels 270 of each bobbin 245 A and 245 B. Fluid channel 270 of bobbin 245 A is in fluid communication with first volume 230 and fluid channel 270 of bobbin 245 B is in fluid communication with second volume 235 . In operation, when piston 215 moves relative to cylinder 205 , piston head 220 urges MR fluid from, for example, second volume 235 into fluid channel 270 of bobbin 245 B. In fluid channel 270 , MR fluid passes through first active region 275 , flows by coil 255 , then passes through second active region 277 . MR fluid then exits fluid channel 270 and enters passage 285 . From passage 285 , the MR fluid enters fluid channel 270 of bobbin 245 A. Again, MR fluid passes through first active region 275 , loops by coil 255 , then passes through second active region 277 . MR fluid then exits fluid channel 270 and enters first volume 230 . As shown above, when piston 215 moves, MR fluid must pass through four active regions in which viscosity of the MR fluid therein may be controlled. Unlike other MR dampers, which essentially shear the MR fluid in Couette-type flow, stretching and breaking the magnetic particle “chains” formed due to the magnetic field, fluid channel 270 of the invention has no moving parts. Fluid channel 270 provides for Poiseuille-type flow, wherein hydraulic amplification provides greater damping capabilities. Another feature of the invention that improves damper efficiency and effectiveness is the disposition of bobbins 245 A and 245 B having fluid channels 270 on either side of piston head 220 . Because fluid channels 270 of bobbins 245 A and 245 B each can impact MR fluid viscosity, as described above, piston 215 essentially experiences corresponding pushing and pulling resistence. Damping may be advantageously controllable by selectively energization of one or more of coils 255 . Each bobbin 245 and cylinder extension 265 is constructed from a high permeability steel material, such as Hiperco steel, which resists magnetization despite repeated magnetic field exposures. However, as compared with, for example, bobbin 170 of damper 100 , bobbin 245 and cylinder extension 265 require far less expensive high permeability steel material, which reduces cost and complexity. Exemplary, but not limitative, dimensions which damper 200 may have are shown in table 1 below. TABLE 1 Exemplary Damper Specifications Coils 2 Turns per Coil 160 Active Length per Coil 15 mm Gap Thickness 0.6 mm Piston Diameter 30.07 mm Total Circuit Length (incl. stroke) 113.4 mm Outer Diameter of Circuit 41.28 mm Damper 200 may include a pneumatic reservoir 290 separated from chamber 210 by a membrane 295 . Pneumatic reservoir 290 is pressurized with a gas, such as ambient nitrogen, which exerts a high pressure against membrane 295 which pressurizes the MR fluid. Pressurizing the MR fluid discourages cavitation which otherwise would occur if sudden movements of piston 215 were allowed to generate a vacuum pressure greater than the vapor pressure of the MR fluid. Cavitation causes the metal parts to corrode and reduces damper operation efficiency. Pneumatic reservoir 290 also accommodates changing shaft volume inside cylinder 205 during damper motion. An alternative embodiment of the invention may employ an external accumulator. However, experimentation demonstrates that a membrane system, as described above, provides faster response characteristics. An advantage that damper 200 provides over known dampers is in reducing the number of coils needed to activate the MR fluid. This reduces the overall inductance of the magnetic circuit of damper 200 . Consequently, damper 200 is more responsive because reduced magnetic circuit inductance correspondingly reduces the circuit time constant. Another advantage that damper 200 provides over known dampers is in reducing the overall number of turns in each coil needed to achieve appropriate levels of magnetic field. This also reduces the circuit time constant, allowing faster MR fluid response. A further advantage that damper 200 provides over known dampers is in increasing the active length of fluid channel 270 . This increase in length is achieved by using a C-shaped annular fluid channel 270 . Yet another advantage that damper 200 provides over known dampers is in reduced weight and cost by substantially reducing the volume of high permeability magnetic steel required to provide a selectably activatable active region 190 . In the invention, only bobbins 245 and cylinder extension 265 are fabricated from high permeability material. This represents significant reduction as compared with known dampers. Yet a further advantage that damper 200 provides over known dampers is in increasing mechanical force vs. velocity capabilities by exploiting the hydraulic amplification benefits of Poiseuille-type flow. Referring to FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of the invention is a damper 300 which provides a much higher force capability. Damper 300 configured according to the invention includes a cylinder 305 , having a first end 306 and a second end 307 , that defines a chamber 310 for containing an MR fluid. A piston 315 has a first head 320 that is received in and divides chamber 310 into a first volume 330 and a second volume 335 . A piston 315 has a second head 322 that is received in chamber 310 and further defines in chamber 310 second volume 335 and a third volume 323 . A piston rod 340 extends from head 320 and through an aperture 342 in a bobbin 345 A. Cylinder 365 may be fixed relative to the gun mount or fork (not shown) and piston rod 240 may be fixed relative to gun (not shown). Damper 300 also includes a conventional recoil spring (not shown) that biases piston 315 relative to cylinder 305 into a battery position. Bobbin 345 A is fixed relative to cylinder 305 , proximate first end 306 . A second bobbin 345 B is fixed relative to cylinder 305 , positioned generally proximate where head 322 defines the end of the stroke of piston 315 . Similar to damper 200 , each of bobbins 345 A and 345 B have a slot 350 for retaining a coil 355 which is configured to generate a magnetic field (not shown). A cylinder extension 365 is received in slot 350 and defines with slot 350 a fluid channel 370 . In the cross sections shown, fluid channel 370 has a C shape; in practice fluid channel 370 defines a C-shaped annulus. Fluid channel 370 conveys MR fluid through a first active region or zone of influence 375 of the magnetic field then through a second active region 377 . When coil 355 is energized, the magnetic field causes the MR fluid within active regions 375 and 377 to assume a higher viscosity, as described above. Damper 300 also includes a third bobbin 345 C having a slot 351 for retaining a coil 355 C which is configured to generate a magnetic field (not shown). Bobbin 345 C divides third volume 335 into forth and fifth volumes 336 and 337 . Cylinder extensions 365 C and 365 D are received in slot 351 and define with slot 351 two fluid channels 371 A and 371 B. In the cross sections shown, each of fluid channels 371 have a C shape; in practice fluid channels 371 each define a C-shaped annulus. Fluid channels 371 convey MR fluid through a first active region or zone of influence 378 of the magnetic field then through a second active region 379 . When coil 355 C is energized, the magnetic field causes the MR fluid within active regions 378 and 379 to assume a higher viscosity, as described above. A first interior cylinder 380 A connects with cylinder extensions 365 A and 365 C and defines with respect to cylinder 305 a first passage 385 A. First passage 385 A is in fluid communication with fluid channel 370 of bobbin 345 A and fluid channel 371 A of bobbin 345 C. Fluid channel 370 of bobbin 345 A is in fluid communication with first volume 330 and fluid channel 371 A of bobbin 345 C is in fluid communication with fourth volume 336 . A second interior cylinder 380 B connects with cylinder extensions 365 B and 365 C and defines with respect to cylinder 305 a second passage 385 B. Second passage 385 B is in fluid communication with fluid channel 370 of bobbin 345 B and fluid channel 371 B of bobbin 345 C. Fluid channel 370 of bobbin 345 B is in fluid communication with second volume 335 and fluid channel 371 B of bobbin 345 C is in fluid communication with fifth volume 337 . In operation, for example, when piston 315 moves relative to cylinder 305 , piston head 320 urges MR fluid from fourth volume 336 into fluid channel 371 A of bobbin 345 C, and piston head 322 urges MR fluid from second volume 323 into fluid channel 370 of bobbin 345 B. In fluid channels 371 A of bobbin 345 C and fluid channel 370 of bobbin 345 B, MR fluid passes through first active regions 378 and 375 , flows by coils 355 , then passes through second active regions 379 and 377 . MR fluid then exits fluid channels 370 and 371 and enters passages 385 A and 385 B. From passages 385 A and 385 B, the MR fluid enters fluid channel 370 of bobbin 345 A and fluid channel 371 B of bobbin 345 C. Again, MR fluid passes through first active regions 378 and 375 , flows by coils 355 , then passes through second active regions 379 and 377 . MR fluid then exits fluid channels 370 and 371 B and enters first volume 330 and fifth volume 337 . Central bobbin 345 C employs a single coil 355 to activate the MR fluid flowing through two cups or fluid channels 371 and four active regions. More than one MR valve 345 C can be ganged together by introducing one or more central bobbin 345 C as shown. Although MR fluids, hence MR dampers, are described, the invention may be adapted for ER fluids, i.e. fluids responsive to electric fields. To this end, for example, referring again to FIG. 9A, a voltage may be applied across the electrodes 505 and 510 , thereby establishing an electric field E in the channel causing the viscosity of the ER fluid to change. The invention also provides a method of damping for managing energy dissipation. As described above, if the amount of recoil energy dissipated is too much, the gum recoil may be insufficient to compress the recoil spring, which in turn may prevent the gun from returning to the battery position. Therefore, unlike previous damping applications and controls therefor, the present method is directed to dissipating an unwanted amount of recoils energy, and preserving a desired amount of recoil energy. Preferably, the method is based on a mathematical model of the system to be damped which is integrated into a control algorithm. Accordingly, below first describes modeling considerations for a system, for example, a turreted, high-caliber, rapid-fire gun system, then describes various algorithms which may integrate same, and finally explains energy dissipation management and how the method accomplishes same. FIG. 11 shows turreted gun system modeled with a Finite Element Model (FEM) 400 having three elements 405 - 415 . The simple three-element FEM model of a bending beam may be developed to represent the turret forks with 8 degrees of freedom (DOF). The dynamic response of the Finite Element Model (FEM) of the fork improves by including an assumed half-mass 420 of a gun, which may be assumed to be, for example, 29.5 kg (65 lbs), at the tip. Exemplary, but not limitative dimensions and moments of inertia for each of the three elements in the model is given below in Table 2. TABLE 2 Parameters of FEM Elements Element #1 (405) Element #2 (410) Element #3 (415) Length  22.8(9.00)  7.0(2.75)  11.74(4.625) cm(in) Average Width  1.27(0.5)  1.27(0.5)  1.27(0.5) cm(in) Average Height  15.87(6.25)  12.21(4.81)  10.0(3.94) cm(in) Inertia I y 423.28(10.17) 193.12(4.64) 105.71(2.54) cm 4 (in 4 ) Finite Element Modeling (FEM) of beams is derived using relationships for both the kinetic and potential energy. The potential energy of the system can be written as: V  ( t ) = 1 2  ∫ 0 l  EI y  ( x )  [ ∂ w .  ( x , t ) ∂ x 2 ] 2   x = 1 2  { w  ( t ) } T  [ K ]  { w  ( t ) } ( 9 ) where l is the length of the element, E is the Young's Modulus of the material, and l y is the bending moment of inertia for each element. Using assumed shape functions for the displacement and bending along the length of an element result in a 4×4 elemental stiffness matrix. The elemental stiffness matrix for a beam in bending is given as: K = 1.0  e 9  [ 4.14 .108 - 3.89 .136 0 0 .108 .011 - .136 .003 0 0 - 3.89 - .136 4.34 - .110 - .448 .026 .136 .003 - .110 .008 - .026 .001 0 0 - .45 - .026 .448 - .026 0 0 .026 .001 - .026 .002 ] ( 10 ) An elemental stiffness matrix is composed for each element in the model. These matrices are then used to make a global stiffness matrix. The elemental stiffness matrices are assembled using their connectivity. The resulting matrix is an 8×8 stiffness matrix for the entire beam. The material properties of the fork are unknown, therefore they must be estimated. Using static test data provided by a gun manufacturer, the Young's Modulus of each fork can be estimated. Assuming a static load of 13.3 kN (3000 lbs.) In the recoil direction causes a displacement of 1.52 mm (0.06 in.) at the second node of the last element, the FEM beam can be written in vector form written as: F =[000000−13.3*10 3 0] T   (11) Using the global stiffness matrix and the global force vector the equation for a linear spring can be written in matrix form as: [ K]{q}={F}   (12) where q is the global DOF vector. The number of DOFs can now be reduced due to physical constraints applied to the first node of the first element. The DOFs q 1 and q 2 are set equal to zero because it is assumed that this element node is fixed and cannot move. Therefore, the problem has 6 DOF, hence the global stiffness matrix is reduced to a 6×6 and the force vector is reduced to be 6×1. The reduced global stiffness matrix is written as: [ k ] l = EI y l 3  [ 12 6  l - 12 6  l 6  l 4  l 2 - 6  l 2  l 2 - 12 - 6  l 12 - 6  l 6  l 2  l 2 - 6  l 4  l 2 ] ( 13 ) The static FEM model is used to determine the apparent Young's Modulus E of the fork material that is unknown. It was assumed that values for the global DOFs were unknown. An initial guess for E was made and values for q were calculated. The final estimate for E was determined by matching the known displacement at the tip of the fork from the static test with the displacement calculated using the FEM model. By matching the tip displacements of the static test and the FEM code the value for the Young's Modulus E of the fork was estimated to be 5.7223×10 10 N/m 2 (8.3×10 6 lb/in 2 ). This value is consistent with that of aluminum or iron alloys. The modeled displacement along the length of the fork due to the applied static load is shown in FIG. 12 . To model the displacement of a gun system when fired, a dynamic FEM model should be used. For the dynamic model the inertial effect of the fork and the gun must be modeled. Like the stiffness of the beam, the mass of the beam can be modeled using FEM theory. This involves deriving an elemental mass matrix using an equation for the kinetic energy of the system. The equation for the element kinetic energy has the form: T  ( t ) = 1 2  ∫ 0 l  m  ( x )  [ ∂ w  ( x , t ) ∂ t ] 2   x = 1 2  { w .  ( t ) } T  [ m ]  { w .  ( t ) } ( 14 ) The results in an elemental mass matrix for a beam in bending that is given by: [ m ] l = ρ     Al 420  [ 156 22  l 54 - 13  l 22  l 4  l 2 13  l - 3  l 2 54 13  l 156 - 22  l - 13  l - 3  l 2 - 22  l 4  l 2 ] ( 15 ) where ρ is the density of the gun fork material, A is the cross-sectional area of each element, and l is the length of each element. In addition, the inertial half-mass of the gun must be added to the dynamic model. The half-mass of the gun only affects the q 7 nodal displacement located in the third element of the model. The inertial effect of the gun mass can be written in matrix form as: m g × s = ρ     Al 420  [ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 420  m ρ     Al 0 0 0 0 0 ] ( 16 ) where m is the half-mass of the gun. The elemental mass matrix for the third element and the mass matrix for the gun are added together and used to assemble the global mass matrix. The result is an 8×8 global mass matrix. Once again the global matrix can be reduced from an 8×8 to a 6×6 matrix by applying boundary conditions to the first element. The reduced global mass matrix is written as: M = [ 1.52 - .037 - .100 - .002 0 0 - .037 .002 - 0.02 0.00 0 0 .100 .002 .688 .004 .138 - .004 - .002 0.00 .004 .0002 .004 - .0001 0 0 .138 .004 29.8 - .007 0 0 - .004 - .0001 - .007 .0001 ] ( 17 ) The reduced global stiffness matrix is used with the global reduced mass matrix in the dynamic analysis to write the second order differential equation. The dynamic equation for the system in matrix form is written as: [ M]{{umlaut over (q)}}+[K]{q}={F}   (18) The forces applied to the beam are modeled in a force vector. The natural frequencies and mode shapes of the beam can be calculated assuming free vibration conditions, hence no forcing on the system. Using MATLAB, the eigenvalue problem is solved and the analytical mode shapes of the gun fork can be calculated as well as the natural bending frequencies of each mode. The first six natural frequencies calculated using the FEM code for the first beam are given in Table 3. TABLE 3 Natural Bending Frequencies of Fork Model Natural Bending Mode # Frequency (Hz) 1 86.5 2 5,114.4 3 8,825.2 4 23,304.0 5 48,540.0 6 106,000.0 FIG. 13 shows the first two mode shapes calculated for the first beam using the FEM analysis. These mode shapes agree with the mode shapes expected for a beam under free vibration. The analysis is repeated for the second gun fork. The Young's Modulus E of the second beam is estimated to match the static displacement at the tip of the fork measured by Boeing. The same mass matrix is assumed for both beams. The two modeled beams are used to build a model of gun forks. The forces and displacements generated by the firing of the gun will be transferred to each of the forks through the MR damper. Although different control algorithms and functions may be used, the invention is adapted to reduce peak recoil force and to optimize the recoil cycle force distribution. FIG. 14 compares force profiles of a passive recoil system and a system with active or semi-active control. According to the invention, the active recoil system reduces and more evenly distributes peak force P over the recoil cycle. Active recoil control essentially spreads out the realized recoil force over time. The recoil cycle requires that sufficient energy be injected into the gun system so as to enable recoil, in which a spring a depressed and the energy thus stored is used to propel the gun back into battery to enable the next round to be loaded. A recoil energy of Er is required for proper and efficient gun operation. The firing of a round may inject into the recoil system an energy of Er+Ex, where Ex is considered to be excess or surplus energy, not needed to efficiently enable the recoil cycle of the gun. The excess or surplus energy can be dissipated by the MR recoil dampers because it reduces the structural and vibrational stability of the gun barrel, gun system, and ultimately the vehicle conveying the gun system. Referring to FIG. 15, damper control force f d is semi-active, because it is purely dissipative. There is only control authority when the desired force and the relative velocity are of the same sign. In addition to this, the damper is limited to operation between performances at field off and saturation. The hatched area between the zero field curve F 0 and the maximum field curve F M represents the operational range of the MR damper as a control actuator on a force vs. velocity diagram. The invention assumes the Bingham plastic model, as described above, to determine the yield force from the desired damper control force. Given the desired control force f d , the post yield damping C po , and the velocity {dot over (u)}, the desired yield force can be found by rewriting Eq. 2 as: F y = f d - C po  u . sign  ( u . ) ( 19 ) Since C po is a function of current, F y is not directly calculated from above equation. For simplicity of calculation, if the value of C yo is determined by using the immediately preceding current input, F y may be easily determined. The accuracy of this calculation depends on the sampling time. For less calculation error, the sampling time should be as small as possible. Karnopp et al. developed a simple but effective semi-active control algorithm for controllable dampers known today as skyhook control. This theory realizes the damper as connecting an isolated mass to an inertial reference. This control law essentially switches the damper force onto the desired force when force and velocity have the same sign, and turns the damper off when of opposite signs. This ensures that the force is always dissipative. The skyhook control law can be expressed mathematically as follows: f d = { f , f     u . 1 > 0 0 , f     u . 1 ≤ 0 ( 20 ) Here, ƒ represents the skyhook control force. In Karnopp's skyhook control theory, ƒ would be proportional to the absolute velocity of the first floor, {dot over (u)} l +{dot over (u)} g : ƒ=K Sky ( {dot over (u)} l +{dot over (u)} g )  (21) where K Sky is the control gain. The ground velocity is obtained by numerically integrating the measured ground acceleration. When applying skyhook control to FEM model 400 described above, it is necessary to consider damper lockup, which may occur using the classical method. To remedy this, a modified skyhook control is proposed wherein Eq. 5 is rearranged as: ƒ y =βM l ü l   (21) which then is substituted into the Bingham-plastic approximation (Eq. 2) to give the skyhook control force: ƒ= C po ( {dot over (u)} l +{dot over (u)} g )+β M l ü l sign ( {dot over (u)} l +{dot over (u)} g )  (22) Here, ƒ still is a function of the absolute velocity, and a value of 0.7 is used for β, the ratio of the yield or coulomb force of the damper to the input force or recoil force, so the damper should never lock up. One of the most widely used techniques of linear control systems design is the optimal linear quadratic regulator (LQR). The basis for LQR is to find the control such that the cost function J = ∫ 0 ∞  [ x T  Q     x + rf 2  ( t ) ]   t ( 23 ) is minimized. Here Q=I and r=l. The control law that minimizes the cost function is given by linear-state feedback: ƒ= K LQR x   (24) The control gain K LQR is given by: K LQR ==B T P   (25) where P∈R 6×6 is the solution to the control algebraic Riccati equation: A T P+PA+I−PBB T P =0  (26) To make this controller dissipative, a semi-active condition must be combined with this LQR control. This semi-active condition is very similar to that used in the skyhook control law and ensures that the force is always dissipative: f d = { f , f     u . 1 > 0 0 , f     u . 1 ≤ 0 ( 27 ) To evaluate the effect of more complex controllers, Continuous Sliding Mode (CSM) control must be considered. CSM control is similar to its predecessor, Variable Structure-Sliding Mode (VSSM). In these methods, the controller is allowed to change its structure and combine their individual useful properties. The controller then forces the trajectory of the structure to follow a specified sliding surface. Although VSSM and other classical sliding mode control algorithms are well known to be very robust to parameter variation and disturbances, their switching nature causes serious problems of chattering. CSM was introduced to completely eliminate this chattering problem while still maintaining the stability and robustness of VSSM. To obtain the CSM control input with the full-state feedback and no disturbance, Eq. 14 can be rewritten as: {dot over (x)}=Ax+Bƒ   (28) Since the ultimate goal is to regulate the vibration of this system, we define the appropriate linear sliding surface function: s ( x )= p 1 x 1 +p 2 x 2 +. . . +p 6 x 6 =p T x   (29) where p T is the sliding surface gradient vector. A number of methods exist to determine the sliding surface, including classical pole placement methods as well as optimal control strategies. The invention employs an algorithm based upon eigenstructure assignment. Then, the CSM controller that satisfies the sliding mode condition, ss°<0, is proposed: f =−(Δ+ε p T BP T ) x   (30) where, Δ=( p T B ) −1 p T A   (31) and ε is the sliding margin (>0). For the invention, ε=1. A and B are the system matrices previously described in Eq. 14. The stability of the total system can be established using Lyapunov stability criterion. A positive definite Lyapunov function V=½(s 2 ) is defined. The time derivative of this function is seen to be the sliding mode condition:  V . = s  s . = sp T  ( Ax + Bf ) = sp T  B  [ ( p T  B ) - 1  p T  Ax + f ] = - ɛ ( sp T  B ) 2 < 0. ( 32 ) This shows that meeting the sliding mode condition guarantees stability. CSM has been designed for a filly active system and has been shown to work well for seismic applications with actuators that can operate in all quadrants of FIG. 15 . For optimal control, in order to apply this control law to a semi-active MR damper case, a semi-active condition similar to the skyhook method must be added to the CSM: f d = { f , f     u . 1 > 0 0 , f     u . 1 ≤ 0 ( 33 ) This again turns the controller on only when the force is dissipative. Referring to FIG. 16, based on the model and control algorithms described above, at step S 10 , the method of the invention includes initiating a timer in a controller upon the firing of a round. The controller, thus being provided with the capability of measuring a duration associated with gun recoil, can ascertain characteristics of the realized recoil, as well as damping exerted by damper 200 or 300 , as shown respectively in FIGS. 8 and 10, between gun G and forks F, as shown in FIG. 1 . At step S 15 , the method includes measuring relative movement between gun G and the gun mount or forks F. Step S 15 may include measuring one or more of displacement, velocity and acceleration. At step S 20 , the method determines an appropriate damping control force using control algorithms, with consideration made to maintaining a sufficient recoil energy in the gun system. To this end, the method includes ascertaining whether Fd*v>0, as described above. If the expression is true, control passes along control line C 10 to step S 30 . If the expression is false, control passes along control line C 15 to control line C 20 , then back to step S 15 , as described above. Thus, whether or not control passes to step S 30 , described below, the method involves continuously measuring relative movement between gun G and forks F, first, to ascertain realized recoil forces, and to monitor the amount of damping exerted between gun G and forks F. Monitoring the amount of damping exerted permits the controller to adjust in real time the amount of damping exerted to dissipate the surplus energy in the recoil cycle. At step S 25 , the method includes recalculating variables impacted by the time and movement measurements ascertained in previous steps, and retaining the variables for subsequent calculations at step S 20 . At step S 30 , the method includes energizing an MR coil or ER electrodes to impact the viscosity of the respective MR or ER fluid in the damper according the amount calculated in step S 20 . Preliminary to step S 10 , at step S 0 , the method may include an optional step of logging round data in the controller. Data, such as temperature, age, maker or other data, may influence the force developed from recoil. Logging may include assessing a round, for example, measuring the temperature or, through bar code scanning, evaluating other properties. Adjustments may be made to the damping control force at this time to ensure that sufficient energy is injected into the recoil system, or to reduce the surplus energy in the recoil system, based on logged round data. The invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described herein, rather only to the appended claims.
Disclosed is a high-speed, high-force impulse load damper susceptible to adaptive control including a cylinder, a piston defining in the cylinder a volume, a coil, fixed relative to the cylinder, configured to generate a magnetic field, and a fluid channel, configured to be influenced by the magnetic field, for one or both of providing fluid to and evacuating fluid from the volume. Also disclosed is a damper including a cylinder, a piston defining in said cylinder a first volume and a second volume, a first fluid channel for one or both of providing fluid to and evacuating fluid from the first volume, first means for regulating flow through said first fluid channel, a second fluid channel for one or both of providing fluid to and evacuating fluid from the second volume, and second means for regulating flow through said second fluid channel, wherein said first fluid channel and said second fluid channel are in fluid communication. Further disclosed is a method of damping with a damper, having a cylinder and a piston defining in the cylinder a first volume and a second volume, including causing negative fluid pressure to resist a tendency of the piston from increasing the first volume, an d causing positive fluid pressure to resist a tendency of the piston from decreasing the second volume. Additionally disclosed is a gun system including a gun, a gun mount, and means for dissipating energy of a force exerted by the gun against the mount, wherein the means for dissipating is adjustable for dissipating different amounts of energy.
5
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a method for interference suppression of a sampling process, in which, as a function of the presence of a particular type of interference in the base band of a sampled and analog-digital-converted signal, a successive modification of the sampling frequency is carried out. BACKGROUND INFORMATION [0002] For the digital evaluation of the measurement results of sensors, it is necessary to convert the analog sensor signal, or the signal sampled by sensors, into a digital signal. Frequently, for this purpose analog-digital converters are used, which make use of the advantages of an oversampling. Here, the narrow-band input signal is sampled with a high-frequency clock rate, and is subsequently digitized using an analog-digital converter. The bandwidth of the useful signal (also referred to as useful band or base band) is here significantly smaller than half the sampling frequency. If the input signal contains high-frequency interference signals, these may be convoluted down into the useful band due to the aliasing effect. In order to prevent this, standardly an anti-aliasing filter is used that filters out the high-frequency interference signals before the sampling. [0003] FIG. 1 schematically shows a frequency diagram for such a situation. Analog useful signal 16 is sampled with a sampling frequency f. In an idealized circuit, or an idealized method, this takes place for example using a periodic clock signal having the period T=1/f, a sampled value being acquired in each case at a determined point in time within the period, for example when the periodic clock signal exceeds or falls below a specified voltage, so that the temporal distance between two successive sampling times corresponds in each case to the period T. The sampled useful signal then results, in the time representation, as the product of the input signal times a sampling function that is given by a sequence of equidistant sampling pulses with the temporal spacing T. In the frequency representation, this product corresponds to a convolution of the frequency spectrum of the input signal with the frequency spectrum of the sampling function, given by a sequence of equidistant spectral lines with the spacing f. Frequency spectrum 10 of a sampling function is shown in FIG. 1 . [0004] The input signal can contain superposed high-frequency interference signals, such as those that occur for example in the case of electromagnetic coupling in. According to the existing art, such an interference signal is filtered out before the sampling using an anti-alias filter, for example a low-pass filter having transmission function 14 . Such a filtered high-frequency interference signal 12 is shown in FIG. 1 as an example, at a frequency that is slightly greater than twice the sampling frequency f. The point of intersection of transmission function 14 of the anti-aliasing filter with the frequency axis limits base band 1 to a range that extends from 0*f up to a frequency of f/2. Here, the low-pass filter is fashioned such that an analog useful signal 16 in base band 1 is allowed to pass through as unfiltered as possible at a typical useful frequency. A disadvantage of this solution is that an anti-aliasing filter has to be implemented. This results in development outlay and use of surface area, in particular if an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) is realized. [0005] FIG. 2 shows the frequency spectra of the sampling of an analog useful signal 16 without anti-aliasing filter. Base band 1 extends, as in the case of the filtering using an anti-aliasing filter, over a frequency range of from 0*f to f/2. However, interference amplitude 20 , which represents the convolution of an unfiltered high-frequency interference signal 18 in the case of sampling without the use of the anti-aliasing filter, is for the most part convoluted directly into base band 1 and thus, given sampling with a sampling frequency f whose frequency spectrum 10 in FIG. 2 is depicted as equal to that in FIG. 1 , is wrongly interpreted as useful signal 16 . [0006] In the article “Digital Alias-free signal processing in the GHz frequency Range” by I. Bilinksis, G. Cain, published in 1996, pages 6/1-6/6 (XP1133893), the authors discuss a sampling method freed from aliasing, in which the sampling times are shifted in time by an arbitrary amount of time with respect to a periodic sampling. [0007] Furthermore, U.S. Pat. No. 5,485,273 discusses a resolution system reinforced by a ring laser gyroscope, in which a phase-locked loop circuit used for sampling frequency modulation is used in combination with a fast filter. [0008] Moreover, EP 1 330 036 A1 discusses a method and a device for alias-suppressed digitization of analog signals of a high frequency, in which a clock pulse generator generates a sequence of electrical pulses of a predetermined frequency F clk , the sequence being divided by a pseudo-arbitrary value for the purpose of selecting a pulse from the sequence. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] According to the present invention, a method is provided for interference suppression of a sampling process, the method including the method steps of sampling an analog signal with a sampling frequency f, and of determining whether an interference amplitude is present. The method furthermore includes the step of an analog-digital conversion of the sampled signal, an interference amplitude being determined to be present, in the method step of determining whether an interference amplitude is present, only if it is greater than the noise of an analog-digital conversion performed in connection with the method. [0010] An interference amplitude is present only if the interference amplitude is present in the base band of the frequency spectrum of a sampled useful signal, the base band extending across a frequency range from 0 f to f/2. When an interference amplitude is present, sampling frequency f is increased or decreased, and the method begins anew with the method step of sampling the analog signal at the increased or decreased sampling frequency. According to the present invention, the step of increasing or decreasing the sampling frequency f occurs successively by a predetermined constant absolute value Δf, in a direction having always the same sign, up to a threshold value f g . In other words, if an interference signal is present, sampling takes place with a new, increased or decreased, sampling frequency. In the other case, sampling continues with the original sampling frequency f. [0011] The advantage of such a method is that, given an analog-digital conversion that does without an anti-aliasing filter, a high-frequency interference signal is no longer convoluted into the base band, but rather into a frequency range that is outside the base band. Thus, the analog-digital-converted useful signal, due to the simple changing of the sampling frequency, can be correctly interpreted, and thus the use of an anti-aliasing filter can be omitted. This can save costs and space in the implementation of an analog-digital converter. In addition, when an anti-aliasing filter is used there is also an undesired attenuation of the useful signal, while not all frequency portions that continue to cause aliasing effects can be suppressed by the anti-aliasing filter. These disadvantages can also be avoided through the use of the method according to the present invention. [0012] In this way, the noise of an analog-digital conversion, applied in the context of the method, that is insignificant for the interpretation of the useful signal is excluded as a trigger for a modification of the sampling frequency. Through this, the method gains in efficiency, because a modification of the sampling frequency is carried out only when the interpretation of the useful signal is impaired by a high-frequency interference signal or interference amplitude. [0013] In this way, the method is initiated only when the interfering signal has an effect in the useful band of the frequency range; this increases the efficiency of the method. [0014] Through this deterministic modification of the sampling frequency, the effect of the method on a high-frequency interference signal can be better determined, or more precisely regulated, because the modification of the sampling frequency takes place in linear fashion, i.e. in equidistant steps. Through the limitation, via threshold value f g , of the possible modification of the sampling frequency, it can be ensured that the method is not carried out beyond a range in which it makes sense to carry it out, thus preventing an addition of noise to the useful signal in the base band. [0015] In a development of this specific embodiment, Δf is formed according to the following rule containing threshold value f G : f increased/decreased =f+Δf, where Δf=(f g −f 1,0 )/n, n∈Z, and f 1,0 is the initial sampling frequency. [0016] In a development of this specific embodiment, threshold value f G is defined by the value of the aperture jitter of a sample and hold circuit used in the sampling process. In this way, the maximum possible threshold value f g is selected for the method, providing the widest range of play for a modification of the sampling frequency. [0017] In a specific embodiment, threshold value f G corresponds to at most the initial sampling frequency increased or decreased by 5%. [0018] In a specific embodiment, threshold value f G corresponds to at most the initial sampling frequency increased or decreased by 1%. [0019] In particular, n is selected from a subset of the whole numbers M, where M∈[1, 20]. When parameter n is chosen in this way, the number of possible modification steps is limited to a number of steps that is advantageous to realize in terms of circuitry. Still more particularly, M∈[2, 10]. [0020] In addition, a device is provided that includes a clock pulse generator that is configured to produce a periodic clock signal and to modify the period of the periodic clock signal upon reception of a control signal. In addition, the device includes a sampling unit that is configured to use the periodic clock signal for the sampling of an analog useful signal and to produce a sampled useful signal. In addition, an analog-digital converter is configured to convert the sampled useful signal into a digital useful signal. [0021] A unit for determining an interference amplitude is configured to determine whether the digital useful signal is affected by an interference amplitude. An interference amplitude is determined to be present only if it is greater than the noise of the performed analog-digital conversion and if the interference amplitude is present in the base band of the frequency spectrum of the sampled useful signal, the base band extending across a frequency range from 0*f to f/2. In the event of the presence of an interference amplitude, the unit for determining an interference amplitude generates a control signal and supplies it to the clock pulse generator in such a way that a change in the sampling frequency f in the sampling unit occurs successively by a predetermined constant absolute value Δf, in a direction having always the same sign, up to a threshold value f g . [0022] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are explained in more detail on the basis of the drawings and the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0023] FIG. 1 shows the frequency spectra of the sampling of a useful signal using an anti-aliasing filter known from the existing art. [0024] FIG. 2 shows the frequency spectra of the sampling of a useful signal without the use of an anti-aliasing filter from the existing art. [0025] FIG. 3 shows the frequency spectra of a specific sampling of a useful signal using the method according to the present invention. [0026] FIG. 4 shows the design of a device for carrying out the method according to the present invention. [0027] FIG. 5 shows the design of a specific embodiment of a device for carrying out the method according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0028] In FIG. 3 , the frequency spectra are shown of a specific sampling of a useful signal using the method according to the present invention. Base band 1 extends over the frequency range from 0 f to f/2. An analog useful signal 16 is sampled with a first sampling frequency 17 . If interference amplitude 20 of a high-frequency unfiltered interfering signal 18 is present, this interference amplitude 20 is recognized in the course of the method according to the present invention. A modification 24 of sampling frequency 17 to an increased or decreased sampling frequency 22 is then carried out in accordance with the method, and the method is restarted (not shown) with the increased or decreased sampling frequency 22 , with the method step of sampling analog signal 16 . [0029] An interference amplitude 20 is recognized only if this amplitude is greater than the noise 3 of an analog-digital conversion carried out in the course of the method, and interference amplitude 20 additionally comes to be situated in base band 1 . Interference amplitude 20 is recognized and, in the present exemplary embodiment, sampling frequency 17 is decreased to a sampling frequency 22 . In this way, there is a shift 25 of interference amplitude 20 —previously convoluted into base band 1 —of high-frequency unfiltered interference signal 18 into a frequency range that is outside base band 1 . [0030] Here, the modification of sampling frequency 17 to sampling frequency 22 takes place successively, by a predetermined constant magnitude, in a direction always having the same sign, until interfering amplitude 20 of high-frequency unfiltered interference signal 18 is no longer recognized, i.e. is no longer convoluted into base band 1 , but rather into a frequency range outside base band 1 . In this case, modification 24 of sampling frequency 17 to decreased sampling frequency 22 is made up of a multiplicity of, for example n, determined constant modification steps, always in a direction having the same sign, which in FIG. 3 is negative. Here, the magnitude of modification 24 of sampling frequency 17 , i.e. the magnitude of its increase or, as in the present case, decrease, can be limited by a threshold value 15 beyond which no further modification of the sampling frequency is carried out. [0031] Threshold value 15 can be based on the aperture jitter of a sample and hold circuit used in the method, but can also be limited to a value of initial sampling frequency 17 increased or decreased by at most X%, which may be 1% or 5%. The dimensioning of the magnitude by which modification 24 of sampling frequency 17 to sampling frequency 22 takes place, successively and always in the same direction up to a maximum of threshold value 15 , can for example also be carried out using the selected, or set, threshold value 15 , via a formation rule in which the difference of threshold value 15 and the first sampling frequency is decomposed into n substeps. [0032] FIG. 4 shows the design of a device for carrying out the method according to the present invention. Realized here is a clock pulse generator 60 that is configured to generate a periodic clock signal 65 and to modify the period of periodic clock signal 65 upon reception of a control signal 55 . Periodic clock signal 65 is provided to a sampling unit 30 in which periodic clock signal 65 is used to sample an analog useful signal 16 . Sampling unit 30 is in addition configured to generate a sampled useful signal 38 and to provide it to an analog-digital converter 40 . [0033] Analog-digital converter 40 is configured to convert sampled useful signal 38 into a digital useful signal 45 and to supply it to a unit 50 for determining interference amplitudes. This unit 50 for determining interference amplitudes determines whether digital useful signal 45 is affected by an interference amplitude 20 , or whether an interference amplitude 20 is present. If an interference amplitude 20 is present, a control signal 55 is generated in unit 50 for determining interference amplitudes and is supplied to clock pulse generator 60 , which thereupon modifies the period of periodic clock signal 65 . If no interference amplitude 20 is present, no control signal 55 is generated. Sampling unit 30 , analog-digital converter 40 , unit 50 for determining interference amplitudes, and clock pulse generator 60 thus form a closed-loop control circuit. [0034] In the device depicted here, clock pulse generator 60 , sampling unit 30 , analog-digital converter 40 , and unit 50 for determining interference amplitudes are shown as separate units or components. These components can however be combined with one another in any manner, both spatially and functionally. Thus, purely as an example, both the sampling and the analog-digital conversion can take place in one element. [0035] FIG. 5 shows a specific embodiment of a device for carrying out the method according to the present invention. Shown are an analog-digital converter 40 and a sampling unit 30 , shown as a functional unit for analog-digital conversion 30 , 40 . Sampling unit 30 is realized here as a sample and hold circuit whose switching equipment and hold capacitor are shown schematically in FIG. 5 . The functional unit for analog-digital conversion 30 , 40 is connected to a unit 50 for determining interference amplitudes, which is realized in this exemplary embodiment as a digital part having a digital comparator. The digital part is in turn connected to a clock pulse generator 60 , realized as an oscillator, while clock pulse generator 60 is connected to the functional unit for analog-digital conversion 30 , 40 . [0036] Thus, a closed-loop control circuit is present via the functional unit for analog-digital conversion 30 , 40 , clock pulse generator 60 , and unit 50 for determining interference amplitudes. In the oscillator, a periodic clock signal 65 is generated having period T and frequency f=1/T. This periodic clock signal 65 is provided to the sample and hold circuit and is used to open and close the switching equipment of the sample and hold circuit with frequency f. If in addition to periodic clock signal 65 an analog useful signal 16 is provided to the sample and hold circuit, this analog useful signal 16 is sampled with a first sampling frequency 17 that corresponds to the above-indicated frequency f, and is converted from analog to digital, likewise in the functional unit for analog-digital conversion 30 , 40 . At the output of the functional unit for analog-digital conversion 30 , 40 there is present a digital useful signal 45 that is supplied to the digital part. [0037] In the digital comparator of the digital part, digital useful signal 45 is compared to at least one reference value that corresponds for example to the value of the average amplitude of noise 3 of the upstream analog-digital conversion. If digital useful signal 45 is greater than the at least one reference value, then in the digital part a control signal 55 , which may be for example a 10-bit trimming signal, is generated and is supplied to the oscillator. In this oscillator, the period of periodic clock signal 65 is then modified corresponding to control signal 55 , to an increased or decreased sampling frequency 22 . From the clock pulse curve shown schematically in FIG. 5 (at the functional block of the oscillator), it can be seen that sampling frequency 22 is greater than sampling frequency 17 . The sampling frequency is adapted until digital useful signal 45 is smaller than the at least one reference value of the digital comparator of digital part 50 , or until a specified threshold value 15 of the maximum frequency modification has been reached. [0038] In all exemplary embodiments, upon the reaching of the threshold value 15 , for example an initial sampling frequency 17 increased by X%, the method can be restarted with an initial sampling frequency 17 decreased by X%, so that, despite the presence of an interference amplitude 20 in basis been 1, the sampling frequency is continuously modified in a loop. Upon reaching a threshold value 15 of, for example, an initial sampling frequency 17 decreased by X%, the method correspondingly begins at an initial sampling frequency 17 increased by X%.
A method for interference suppression of a sampling process includes sampling an analog signal with a sampling frequency f, and determining whether an interference amplitude is present. The method provides that if an interference amplitude is present, the sampling frequency f is increased or decreased, and the method begins again with the sampling of the analog signal with the increased or decreased sampling frequency. In addition, a device is described for carrying out the method.
7
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to clip structures and more particularly pertains to an extension tube clip holder for securing an extension tube to a side of an aerosol container. 2. Description of the Prior Art The use of clip structures is known in the prior art. More specifically, clip structures heretofore devised and utilized are known to consist basically of familiar, expected and obvious structural configurations, notwithstanding the myriad of designs encompassed by the crowded prior art which have been developed for the fulfillment of countless objectives and requirements. Known prior art clip structures include U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,269,614; 5,236,106; 5,211,335; 5,193,748; and 3,450,313. While these devices fulfill their respective, particular objectives and requirements, the aforementioned patents do not disclose an extension tube clip holder for securing an extension tube to a side of an aerosol container which includes a center member having a slot for receiving the extension tube, and a pair of arcuate arms extending from the center member and positionable about the container to secure the center member and associated extension tube to the container. In these respects, the extension tube clip holder according to the present invention substantially departs from the conventional concepts and designs of the prior art, and in so doing provides an apparatus primarily developed for the purpose of securing an extension tube to a side of an aerosol container. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of clip structures now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new extension tube clip holder construction wherein the same can be utilized for securing an extension tube to the side of an aerosol container. As such, the general purpose of the present invention, which will be described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a new extension tube clip holder apparatus and method which has many of the advantages of the clip structures mentioned heretofore and many novel features that result in a extension tube clip holder which is not anticipated, rendered obvious, suggested, or even implied by any of the prior art clip structures, either alone or in any combination thereof. To attain this, the present invention generally comprises a holder for securing an extension tube to a side of an aerosol container. The inventive device includes a center member having a slot for receiving the extension tube. A pair of arcuate arms extend from the center member and can be resiliently positioned about the container to secure the center member and associated extension tube thereto. There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The abstract is neither intended to define the invention of the application, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new extension tube clip holder apparatus and method which has many of the advantages of the clip structures mentioned heretofore and many novel features that result in a extension tube clip holder which is not anticipated, rendered obvious, suggested, or even implied by any of the prior art clip structures, either alone or in any combination thereof. It is another object of the present invention to provide a new extension tube clip holder which may be easily and efficiently manufactured and marketed. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a new extension tube clip holder which is of a durable and reliable construction. An even further object of the present invention is to provide a new extension tube clip holder which is susceptible of a low cost of manufacture with regard to both materials and labor, and which accordingly is then susceptible of low prices of sale to the consuming public, thereby making such extension tube clip holders economically available to the buying public. Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a new extension tube clip holder which provides in the apparatuses and methods of the prior art some of the advantages thereof, while simultaneously overcoming some of the disadvantages normally associated therewith. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a new extension tube clip holder for securing an extension tube to a side of an aerosol container. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a new extension tube clip holder which includes a center member having a slot for receiving the extension tube, and a pair of arcuate arms extending from the center member and positionable about the container to secure the center member and associated extension tube to the container. Even still another object of the present invention is to provide a new extension tube clip holder which further includes gripping means for facilitating a resilient biasing of the arcuate arms about the container. These together with other objects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there is illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention will be better understood and objects other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such description makes reference to the annexed drawings wherein: FIG. 1 is an isometric illustration the extension tube clip holder according to the present invention as installed on a container. FIG. 2 is an isometric illustration of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a top plan view thereof. FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view taken along line 4--4 of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a front elevation view of the invention. FIG. 6 is an isometric illustration of the extension tube clip holder including a gripping means. FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the invention including the gripping means. FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view taken along line 8--8 of FIG. 7. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT With reference now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1-8 thereof, a new extension tube clip holder embodying the principles and concepts of the present invention and generally designated by the reference numeral 10 will be described. More specifically, it will be noted that the extension tube clip holder 10 comprises a substantially rectangular center member 12 having an arcuate inner wall 14 and an arcuate exterior wall 16 with opposed top and bottom walls 18, 20 orthogonally extending between the inner and exterior walls, as best illustrated in the plan view of FIG. 3. The center member 12 includes a vertically extending circular aperture 22 which extends from the top wall 18 to the bottom wall 20 proximal to the arcuate exterior wall 16. An opening 24 extends through the exterior wall 16 and is coextensive with the circular aperture 22 to permit communication with the circular aperture not only through the ends thereof located at the top and bottom walls 18, 20, respectively, but also through the exterior wall 16. By this structure, an extension tube 26 can be positioned within the circular aperture 22 by either a longitudinal positioning of the extension tube through the aperture 22 from either the top wall 18 or the bottom wall 22, or alternatively, by a lateral positioning of the extension tube through the opening 24, whereby the extension tube will snap into the circular aperture 22. The circular aperture 22 is sized so as to create a frictional engagement with the extension tube 26 which precludes unintentional removal of the extension tube therefrom. To retain the center member 12 along a side wall of a container 28, as illustrated in FIG. 1, a first arcuate arm 30 and a second arcuate arm 32 extend from the center member and at least partially around the cylindrical side wall of the container. As best illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the arcuate arms 30, 32 are substantially similar in shape and extend from laterally opposed sides of the center member 12 to terminate in a pair of spaced distal ends 34. The arcuate arms 30, 32 cooperate with the arcuate inner wall 14 to define a substantially circular area 36 within which the container 28 may reside. Because the distal ends 34 of the arcuate arms 30, 32 are spaced a predetermined distance apart, the container 28 may be positioned into the center area 36 by positioning the distal ends 34 against the side wall of the container, whereby the resilient nature of the arcuate arms permits the same to be biased laterally outward to permit entrance of the container 28 into the center area 36. Preferably, the entire device 10 is comprised of a substantially resilient plastic material or the like which permits such resilient deformation thereof. Referring now to FIG. 5, it can be shown that the opening 24 which permits lateral entrance of the extension tube 26 into the circular aperture 22 has an opening lateral width, with the circular aperture 22 having a circular aperture diameter, wherein the circular aperture diameter is substantially larger than the opening lateral width. By forming the opening 24 slightly smaller than the circular aperture diameter 22, the extension tube 26 is more securely retained within the aperture. Referring now to FIGS. 6 through 8, it can be shown that the present invention 10 may advantageously include at least one, and preferably a pair of gripping means 40 for assisting in a manual biasing of the distal ends 34 away from each other. To this end, the gripping means 40 preferably comprises a pair of gripping members 42 interposed between the laterally opposed sides of the center member 32 and the first and second arcuate arms 30, 32. Each of the gripping members 42 preferably includes arcuate extensions 44 extending vertically therefrom to increase an overall surface area of the gripping member 42. The arcuate extensions 44 preferably extend a distance sufficient to accommodate a digit of the human hand comfortably thereon. To preclude slippage of an individual's finger or thumb across the gripping means 40, a gripping surface 46 is integrally formed along an outer exterior surface of the gripping member 42. The gripping surface 46 preferably comprises a plurality of gripping serrations 48 molded into the gripping member 42. By this structure, an individual may grasp the device 10 by positioning the index finger of the left hand onto the distal end 34 of the first arcuate arm 30 and a thumb of the left hand onto the gripping means 40 interposed between the center member 12 and the first arcuate arm. Further, the index finger of the individual's right hand can be positioned into engagement with the distal end 34 of the second arcuate arm 32, with the right thumb of the individual being positioned onto the gripping means 40 interposed between the center member 12 and the second arcuate arm. In this configuration, the distal ends 34 of the first and second arcuate arms 30, 32 may be resiliently biased apart during an installation procedure of the device 10 about the container 28. In use, the extension tube clip holder 10 provides a convenient means for storing the extension tubes 26 commonly provided with aerosol containers 28, as shown in FIG. 1. Commonly, these extension tubes 26 are easily misplaced or lost. However, such occurrences of loss of the extension tubes 26 are greatly reduced through a use of the present invention 10 as described above. As to a further discussion of the manner of usage and operation of the present invention, the same should be apparent from the above description. Accordingly, no further discussion relating to the manner of usage and operation will 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.
A holder for securing an extension tube to a side of an aerosol container. The inventive device includes a center member having a slot for receiving the extension tube. A pair of arcuate arms extend from the center member and can be resiliently positioned about the container to secure the center member and associated extension tube thereto.
1
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE U.S. Pat. No. 6,025,682 is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. I. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to agitation control for a washing machine, and in particular, to user-selectable agitation action and speed. B. Problems in the Art Modern washing machines usually employ a number of functional features. This includes a variety of washing regimes (e.g. regular, permanent press, soak only). Most machines include user-selectable controls allowing the user to set the machine differently for different washing tasks, action, or regimes. For example, selection of a “regular” washing regime usually indicates a longer wash cycle, and relatively substantial wash action (e.g. faster agitation and spin speeds). Another example is a delicate or permanent press regime, which usually indicates shorter wash cycle and less wash action (e.g. slower agitation). It has been found to be desirable to have different agitation robustness for different washing tasks. By selection between pre-programmed wash regimes or cycles, the user has some control over the gentleness or robustness of mechanical wash action. The user usually selects the type of washing regime, and the machine automatically follows a pre-programmed wash action for that regime. The user normally does not have control over washing action other than washing regime selection. One way different washing or agitation action is created in an automatic washing machine is by utilizing a multi-speed electric motor that can rotate or reciprocate an agitation impeller (also sometimes referred to as the agitator) at different speeds. One specific example is U.S. Pat. No. 3,474,646. The user operates a control knob to select between three discrete agitation speeds from a three speed (high, medium, and low speed) motor, regardless of which washing cycle or regime is selected from a separate control. While this provides three agitation speed choices for the user, independent of washing cycle, it is generally the case that the more speeds of a motor, the higher the cost and complexity. Another approach is to vary what might be called the “duty cycle” of agitation. In other words, the machine allows the user to select cumulative agitation robustness over a standard period of time. This can be accomplished, e.g., by dividing the standard period of time into alternating sub-periods of different agitator impeller speeds or by lengthening or shortening cumulative duration of agitation. The amount of energy imparted to the clothes by the impeller during the period is a function of the average impeller speed during the period. One example of this is U.S. Pat. No. 3,589,148. A still further solution was suggested by the owner of the present application. In an embodiment described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,025,682 (“the '682 patent”), the user is presented with four different agitation options. First is “continuous fast”, meaning the faster speed of a two speed motor is continuously applied to the impeller during an agitation period. The second is “continuous slow”, meaning the slower speed of the two-speed motor is continuously applied to the impeller during the agitation time. A third can be called “intermittent fast”, and in the '682 patent comprises sub-periods of alternating fast and slow agitation speed of the impeller during an agitation period. During that period, the agitation speed, on average, would be considered intermediate between fast and slow; thus, not only a different type of agitation, but also a third “speed”. The fourth is referred to as “intermittent slow”, comprising alternating sub-periods of slow agitation and no agitation. On average, over the agitation period, this is both a different type of agitation and a fourth “speed”; slower than continuous slow. Additionally, in the '682 patent, a user can adjust the agitation duty cycle in either intermittent fast or intermittent slow regimes. The user can infinitely variably adjust, within a range, duration of sub-periods of differing impeller speed. An example would be, in intermittent fast mode, lengthening sub-periods of fast agitation, which would shorten sub-periods of slow agitation; which would mean the average speed over the entire agitation period becomes closer to “continuous fast”. Conversely, sub-periods of fast could be shortened, which would lengthen sub-periods of slow; resulting in an average speed over the entire period closer to “continuous slow”. In other words, the user could select longer sub-periods of fast agitation and shorter periods of slow agitation in “intermittent fast” mode, or vise versa; and select longer sub-periods of slow agitation and shorter periods of no agitation, or vise versa, in the “intermittent slow” mode, over a range of values, giving a range of different “average” speeds between continuous fast or continuous slow respectively. As is well known in the art, present washing machines generally are pre-programmed or pre-designed to follow a sequence of functions during any selected washing regime. The agitator is operated only at certain times of most regimes. As described, the '682 patent allows for user-selectability of speed and/or duty cycle of agitation at the times agitation occurs, including two settings with infinitely variable adjustability within the setting. Thus, with infinitely variable adjustability, in either intermittent fast or intermittent slow agitation speed selection, the user has an additional manually adjustable control that can alter agitation speed over a range of speeds within that general class of speed (i.e. intermittent fast or intermittent slow). For example, if intermittent fast is selected, which averages to a medium speed, the user can also infinitely variable adjust the speed between higher intermittent fast and slower intermittent fast. Thus, using just a two-speed motor, the '682 patent provides four different agitation “speed” options from which the user can manually select. Thus, the user can in a sense “override” or dictate the robustness of the washing action, regardless of which washing regime or cycle is selected, by a selection from continuous fast, intermittent fast, continuous slow and intermittent slow agitation speeds from a manually operated control on the washing machine control panel. The '682 patent accomplished this infinite variability by utilizing a variable resistor, manually controlled by the user from the control panel, as the mechanism for allowing infinitely variable selectivity of a duty cycle (how long or short the sub-periods of fast, slow or no agitation are) in the two intermittent modes. It also includes a microprocessor controlled timer circuit, which is used by the system to know where the washing machine is in any given regime of washing, and a microprocessor controlled two-relay switch to create the intermittent periods in the intermittent modes; i.e. switch the motor between fast and slow or slow and no agitation. The '682 patent is one way to give the user more choices and expanded control of agitation. Although the solution of the '682 patent works well for its intended purpose, it is believed there may be room for improvement in this area because of a combination of factors. Although providing substantial user-control of and options for washing action and providing more than two agitation “speeds” from a two-speed motor, the microprocessor-controlled dual relays and timer circuit and the variable resistor add significant cost to the machine. The cost may not justify the amount of user-selectable options offered by the '682 patent solution. Therefore, it is believed that there is room for improvement in the art for an alternative way to provide expanded user-controlled agitation in a more economical way. It is therefore a principle object of the present invention to provide a beneficial method of agitation control. Other objects, features, or general advantages of the present invention can include: 1. increased options for wash action by economical means; 2. increased options for wash action without using microprocessor or electronic technology; 3. increased options for wash action utilizing an electromechanical timer circuit; 4. economy; 5. efficiency; 6. durability; 7. relatively non-complex structure and method; 8. ease of user selectability; and 9. flexibility and adaptability for different pre-designed wash action regimes. These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent with reference to the accompanying drawings and claims. II. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a wash action control system for a washing machine having a wash tub or drum, an impeller or agitator within said wash tub, and a motor for operating the agitator. An electrical control circuit is connected to the motor, and includes an electrical timer motor which operates a timer for providing power to an agitation speed selection control, having a plurality of discrete speed selections, at least one of the selections enabling the control circuit, by electromechanical components, to cause the motor to operate the agitator at intermittent times during an agitation period. The agitation speed selection control can also cause the motor to operate the agitator continuously during an agitation period. An optional aspect of the invention includes an electrical motor having a plurality of speeds for operating the agitator at a plurality of different speeds. The agitation speed selection control allows a user to select between agitation speed modes regardless of washing regime or cycle. These speed modes include, for example, a continuous speed over an agitation period instructed by the control circuit and electromechanical components based on a user-selected washing regime or cycle. Another example is an intermittent speed where the control circuit and electromechanical components operate to cause the motor to operate the agitator at one speed for at least one sub-period of an agitation period, and operate said agitator at either another speed or at no agitation for at least one different sub-period of the agitation period. The differing agitation speeds can be alternated for successive plural sub-periods. III. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine including a control panel with the user-selectable agitation speed control. FIG. 2 is an enlarged diagrammatic view of the user selectable speed control. FIGS. 3A–B is an electrical circuit diagram for an exemplary embodiment of multiple speed control according to the present invention. FIGS. 4A–C is a timing chart for the electrical circuit of FIG. 3 . FIGS. 5A–B is an electrical circuit diagram of an alternative embodiment for a multiple speed control according to the present invention. FIGS. 6A–C is a timing chart for the electrical circuit of FIG. 5 . IV. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION A. Overview To provide a better understanding of the present invention, one exemplary embodiment the invention can take is now described in detail. Frequent reference will be taken to the appended drawings. Reference numerals and letters will be used to indicate certain parts and locations in the drawings. The same reference numerals and/or letters will be used to indicate the same parts and locations throughout the drawings unless otherwise indicated. On the schematics of FIGS. 3 and 5 , electrical nodes are represented with common reference numerals at each connection point. For example, the reference numeral of electrical node 32 can be found at the connections to the drive motor 54 , the timer contact 5 T, and the speed selector switch 116 . B. General Embodiment The present invention relates to agitation speed or wash action control for an automatic washing machine. As shown in FIG. 1 , washing machine 110 consists of a housing 111 (usually sheet metal) and includes a lid 112 and a control panel 114 . Lid 112 provides access to the wash tub or drum (not shown) inside housing 111 . Control apparatus and drive apparatus, such as a motor, are contained inside housing 111 . It is to be understood that the present invention pertains to automatic washing machines of most, if not all, types and configurations, including top loading and front loading machines. In this embodiment, one drive motor is utilized to drive both spinning of the drum and the action of an agitator in the drum. The motor is a two-speed electric motor, to be referred to as high or regular speed and low or slow speed. The two speeds are accomplished here by passing electrical current through one of two different windings, such as is a well-known configuration. Other aspects of washing machine 110 are well-known in the art, and therefore further detail will not be set for herein. Such detail can be found in a variety of patents and publications in the art. The present invention focuses upon agitation speed control. In this embodiment, control panel 114 includes a dedicated speed switch 116 (see FIG. 2 ) comprising a slider 118 which the user can move to any of four discrete positions. Alternatively, rotary switches, push button switches or other selectors or user-interfaces (e.g. touch screen) for four discrete functions could be utilized. The present invention is an alternative to the agitation speed control shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,025,682. The U.S. Pat. No. 6,025,682 patent is incorporated by reference herein. C. Apparatus of the Exemplary Embodiment In addition to speed selector 116 , which is manually operable by the user on the external control panel 114 of washing machine 110 , the structure and configuration of an exemplary embodiment will be illustrated by reference to the electrical schematic of FIG. 3 . Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,025,682, this circuit includes line voltage (L 1 ) and neutral (N) and ground (Gnd), to provide household current and line voltage to washing machine 110 . Two-speed electric drive motor 54 , a lid switch 52 , and an electric timer motor 56 are utilized in the circuit. Additionally, a water temperature switch 48 , automatic temperature control switch 45 , water level switch 47 , and other functional features are included in the schematic of FIG. 3 . It is further to be understood that a number of cams, operatively associated with a spindle or axle rotationally driven by timer motor 56 , control the opening and closing of contactors schematically depicted and numbered 1 – 9 in FIG. 3 . These cams, well known in the art, are electromechanical and designed to control the operation of sub-circuits in the circuitry of FIG. 3 , and thus, control a number of functions of the control circuit at large (and the washing machine). Those functions and duty cycles are set forth in the timing chart of FIG. 4 . The electromechanical cam arrangement is used in many present automatic washing machines. An electric motor rotates a spindle at a controlled rate. A user merely turns a control dial to a selected regime. This actuates the water valve to initiate filling of the wash tub with water. The spindle starts rotating when the selected water level is achieved. One or more cams rotate with the spindle. The cams cooperate with one or more electrical contactors positioned adjacent the spindle such that when the spindle is in a certain rotation position, one or more cams complete an electrical circuit by mechanically closing the points of a contactor (by shorting the points or by pushing a conductive member to a position which shorts the points). The configuration of the cam and the speed of rotation of the spindle determine the length of time the circuit is closed. As the cams go by corresponding contactors, the pre-programmed functions occur as the cams close and open circuits within the general control circuit of FIG. 3 . There can be more than one cam on the spindle, e.g. at various positions along the spindle's longitudinal axis or aligned on a surface lateral to the longitudinal axis of the spindle, such that a contactor can be closed and opened a plurality of times during one spindle rotation (and for the same or differing lengths of time), or a plurality of contactors can be closed or opened concurrently. Present washing machine owners demand a range of “pre-programmed” washing regimens. As can be appreciated, there are usually practical limits on the amount of switching, the physical size of components, how many cams can be used or are available, etc. The U.S. Pat. No. 6,025,682 patent attempted to address this by replacing the electromechanical timer/cam arrangement at least partially with a microprocessor controlled timer, which can issue instructions to relays and other components to open and close circuits. However, as previously mentioned, while this arrangement frees up cams to be used for other functions, it adds significant cost to the washing machine. Although this solution provides a substantial number of options, such flexibility may exceed the value to most consumers. Particularly, with regard to agitator speed selection, the circuit of FIG. 3 includes speed switch 116 . Switch 116 has four discrete selections, each being user-selectable from control panel 114 . Depending on which of the four choices F-, F, S, S- is selected by the user, when agitation is commanded by timing chart of FIG. 4 (“fill and wash” period), agitation speed proceeds according to that switch selection. In other words, the timing chart in FIG. 4 indicates when, during various washing regimes, the agitator will operate. Speed of agitation will proceed during those agitation periods according to the user's selection (via switch 116 ) and the timing chart between the following four options: SPEED SELECTION DESCRIPTION F Continuous fast agitation speed-the high speed of the two-speed motor will be utilized to produce fast agitation on a continuous basis for as long as agitation is called for by the timing chart.    F− Intermittent fast-periods of fast or high speed agitation using the high speed of the motor will alternate with periods of low speed agitation using low speed of the motor during the intermittent agitation time of the timing chart. S Assured slow-low speed of the two-speed motor will be utilized for lower speed agitation continuously during the time of agitation called for by the timing chart.    S− Intermittent slow-agitation speed will alternate between sub-periods of slow agitation using the lower speed of the motor, and no agitation, for as long as the timing chart calls for such intermittent slow agitation. Thus, the apparatus to accomplish four different agitation regimes is accomplished by a two-speed motor, a four-position speed switch, and a timing chart for applicable timing cams that are used to operate contacts necessary to provide electrical power to cause motor 54 to operate in either low speed mode or high speed mode (or no speed mode) for an instructed time and/or duty cycle. D. Operation Again, by referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the specific operation of the agitation speed control is described. (1) Continuous Fast (F) If the user wants a fast agitation at all agitation times, slider 118 on speed selector 116 is set to “fast” or “F” in FIG. 3 . When power is supplied to the drive motor 54 during an agitation period the time chart of FIG. 4 (timer contact 8 B is conducting), the path of current through drive motor will be: (a) from L 1 through the lid switch 52 to node M (see FIG. 3 ) (b) through “REG” winding (the fast speed winding) to node 32 ; (c) through the switch between nodes 32 and 33 at the “F” contact on switch 116 ; (d) through timer contact 8 B to node 16 ; (e) through the water level switch to node 7 ; (f) then through timer contact 2 T to node N. Thus, during preprogrammed selected speed agitation periods that are controlled by timer contact 8 B (see timing diagram of FIG. 4 ), if switch 116 is set to “F” position, the current path is through the regular (or “fast”) winding of motor 54 at all times; which causes the agitation impeller to rotate at continuous “fast” speed during those periods of time. In this fashion, as long as other required conditions and timed operations are in place, continuous fast agitation speed occurs during any instructed agitation periods by timing chart of FIG. 4 . It is noted that current pathway through switch position F is the only pathway to “N”, and neither of timer contacts 3 B or 3 T are conducting. (2) Continuous Slow (S) Similarly, if switch 116 selection “S” is selected for continuous “slow” agitation speed, if other things are in place, electrical current would flow: (a) from L 1 through the lid switch 52 to node M; (b) through the SLOW or “low speed” coil between nodes M and 31 in drive motor 54 ; (c) through speed switch 116 at contact “S” to node 33 ; (d) through timer contact 8 B to node 16 ; (e) through the water level switch to node 7 ; (f) then through timer contact 2 T to node N. This is the only path through speed switch 116 between L 1 and N for drive motor 54 and therefore provides continuous slow agitation speed for any period in which agitation is instructed by the timing chart of FIG. 4 . Therefore, using standard electromechanical cams and contacts in conjunction with a conventional electric timing motor 56 , the user is given the option of two user-selectable continuous speeds (continuous fast or continuous slow) by simply moving the hand-operated slide control 118 to the appropriate “F” or “S” position. No microprocessors or relays are used. (3) Intermittent Fast (F-) But further, and in contrast to the two continuous speeds, if intermittent fast (F-) is selected at speed switch 116 , during agitation times in the timing diagram of FIG. 4 , motor 54 would run for alternating sub-periods of fast speed and slow speed. This is accomplished as follows. As indicated along the time chart of FIG. 4 , timer contact 3 would toggle between making its bottom half (B) conductive (between nodes 31 and 30 ) and its top half (T) conductive (between nodes 34 and 30 ). As timer motor 56 turns cams 1 – 9 , timing cams would alternatively close the bottom half for one 180 second increment, then open the bottom half and concurrently close the top half for a 180 second increment, and repeat three more times during agitation in the regular wash regime of FIG. 4 . This would result in successive sub-periods of 180 seconds each of alternating slow then fast agitation. Thus, the washing action would differ in the sense that agitation speed would change, and over the course of the whole agitation period, the average speed or cumulative energy imparted to agitation is less than continuous fast, but greater than continuous slow. As is apparent from FIGS. 3 and 4 , intermittent fast is accomplished when the speed switch 116 is in position “F-”. The path from L 1 to the motor windings is identical to that described above in the continuous fast and continuous slow selections. The path from the Neutral node (N) to the motor windings is as follows: (a) from node N through timer contact 2 T to node 7 ; (b) through the water level switch 47 to node 16 ; (c) through timer contact 8 B to node 33 ; (d) then through speed switch 116 at contact “S-, F-” to node 30 . (e) At this point, the path varies according to the time chart of FIG. 4 for timer contacts 3 T and 3 B. 1. When timer contact 3 T is closed the path is from node 34 , through speed switch 116 to node 32 at the “F, F-” contact, and to the fast speed winding of drive motor 54 . 2. When timer contact 3 B is closed, the path is to node 31 to the slow speed winding of drive motor 54 . When machine 110 is in permanent press cycle, agitation would similarly alternate between an increment of slow speed and an increment of fast speed, but for three, as opposed to four, sets of slow/fast (see FIG. 4 ). Thus, the cams can be built to have different slow/fast repetitions for different wash cycles. FIG. 4 is but one way to program the cams. There could be more or less slow/fast repetitions. The length of each slow or fast sub-period could be more or less than one timing chart increment (180 seconds). For example, F- could begin with two 180 second increments of slow speed, followed by two 180 second increments of fast speed. The length of a slow or fast sub-period could differ from a succeeding or preceding agitation sub-period. For example, F- could begin with two 180 second increments of slow speed, followed by one 180 second increment of fast speed. Or fractions of increments could be used. (4) Intermittent Slow (S-) Similarly, if “S-” or intermittent slow is selected at speed switch 116 , motor 54 would alternate between slow agitation speed and no agitation according to the timing chart of FIG. 4 . Again, the path from L 1 to the motor windings is identical to that described above in the continuous fast and continuous slow selections. The path from the Neutral node (N) to the motor windings is as follows: a) from node N through timer contact 2 T to node 7 ; b) through the water level switch 47 to node 16 ; c) through timer contact 8 B to node 33 ; d) then through speed switch 116 at contact “S-, F-” to node 30 . e) At this point, the path varies according to the time chart of FIG. 4 for timer contacts 3 T and 3 B. 1. When timer contact 3 T is closed, there is no path to the motor as there is no connection point through speed switch 116 . This represents a period of no agitation. 2. When timer contact 3 B is closed, the path is to node 31 , to the slow speed winding of drive motor 54 . Therefore, intermittent periods of slow agitation followed by no agitation will be instructed by timing chart of FIG. 4 . During the whole agitation period, therefore, the average speed will be less than continuous slow and the energy imparted by agitation will be alternated between some and none. Again, this intermittent slow function is accomplished without a microprocessor or relays. As can be seen, the above-described four option arrangement allows four different agitation functions which are user-selectable. The duty cycles for each are controlled by the timing chart of FIG. 4 . E. Alternatives and Options The exemplary embodiment is given by example only. Variations obvious to those skilled in the art will be included within the invention. For example, variations on the circuit of FIG. 3 in the timing chart of FIG. 4 are possible. It is well known in the art to provide numerous variations of user selections throughout a model line. As such is the case, the agitation speeds discussed above may be employed in various combinations. For instance, various machines could employ combinations of continuous fast, continuous slow, and either (or both of) intermittent fast and intermittent slow selections. Another example of an apparatus providing the aforementioned speed selections is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 . Instead of utilizing timer contacts and cams for controlling intermittent agitation speeds, a double-pole, double-throw relay (see reference number 117 of FIG. 5 ) can be substituted. Relay 117 can be activated via timer contact 3 T according to the timing chart of FIG. 6 . This embodiment works the same as the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4 , providing continuous fast when speed switch 116 is closed at position “F”, continuous slow when speed switch 116 is closed at position “S”, intermittent fast when speed switch 116 is closed at position “F-”, and intermittent slow when speed switch 116 is closed at position “S-”; providing four discrete agitation functions. When “F” or “S” are selected, there is a direct current path from either “REG” at node 32 or “SLOW” coil at node 31 of motor 54 to node 33 through the speed switch 116 . Therefore, like the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4 , there are two continuous speeds selectable by the user, using the two speeds of the motor. When “F-” or “S-” (intermittent fast or intermittent slow) is selected during agitation, timer contact 3 T would instruct relay 117 to alternate between two states. A first state, shown in FIG. 5 , shorts nodes 32 to 30 and 31 to 34 . A second state, when sufficient current flows through inductor (between nodes N and 17 of relay 117 ), shorts nodes 31 to 30 and 6 to 34 . As can be appreciated by viewing FIGS. 5 and 6 in combination, when the user sets switch 116 to “F-”, node 30 is shorted to node 33 . The only current path through motor 54 is through the left side of relay 117 in FIG. 5 (between either node 30 to 31 or 30 to 32 ). Timer contact 3 T would present a current path through the “SLOW” coil of motor 54 (node M to 31 ) during timing increments 7 , 9 , 11 & 13 (see FIG. 6 ), because during these increments, timer contact 3 T would be closed and would cause sufficient current to energize the coil of relay 117 to short nodes 31 and 30 . But during increments 8 , 10 , 12 & 14 , timer contact 3 T opens, which causes current to flow through the “REG” (or fast) coil of motor 54 , because the current path for motor 54 is through nodes 32 to 30 (which are shorted because the relay coil is not energized). Thus, in “F-” mode, timer contact 3 T controls the switching of relay 117 which alternates between fast and slow motor speeds, like the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4 . A similar effect occurs during timing increments 40 to 46 . If “S-” is selected, the only current path for motor 54 to N is through nodes 34 and 33 at speed switch 116 and nodes 34 to 31 at relay 117 . As indicated at FIGS. 5 and 6 , timer contact 3 T would toggle between energizing and not energizing the coil of relay 117 , which alternatingly shorts nodes 31 to 34 of relay 117 (when relay 117 is not energized), which would operate motor 54 at “slow” speed, and short nodes 6 and 34 of relay 117 , which would not operate motor 54 at either speed because it breaks any current path through motor 54 (point 6 is not conducting to N). The arrangement of FIGS. 5 and 6 is a little more costly than that of FIGS. 3 and 4 because of the utilization of the relay 117 , but can be advantageous if additional timer contacts are not available, or can be better utilized for other functions. As can be appreciated, even a one-speed motor could utilize the concepts of the invention. Two “speeds” for a one-speed motor can be enabled by selecting between a continuous speed and an intermittent speed (alternating sub-periods of at-speed and no-speed during an agitation period). Or the intermittent speed alone could be used and duty cycle of running at-speed, compared to sub-periods of no speed, programmed for certain agitation periods and agitation selections, to provide a plurality of washing action functions to the user independent of washing cycle. On the other hand, these principles could be applied to systems having drive motors of more than two speeds. Continuous speed options up to the number of speeds of the drive motor could be offered the user, along with intermittent speed options that would alternate between any two speeds, or between a speed and no speed. Or, again, duty cycle of any motor speed could be adjusted for different agitation action, as the basis for user control of washing action independent of washing cycle.
An apparatus, method and system of wash action control for an automatic washing machine. A manually operable user interface allows selection from between a plurality of discrete agitation speed selections which comprise at least a continuous speed agitation mode for a given agitation period during a wash cycle and an intermittent speed agitation mode for at least a part of a given agitation period. The intermittent speed agitation mode automatically varies agitation speed between at least two sub-periods of the given agitation period. The variation in agitation speed can be between a faster and a slower speed or a certain speed and no agitation.
3
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a Divisional patent application of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/780,463, filed on Feb. 17, 2004, projected U.S. Pat. No. 7,588,728 projected Issue Date: Sep. 15, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Test plates for chemical or biochemical analyses, which contain a plurality of individual wells or reaction chambers, are well-known laboratory tools. Such devices have been employed for a broad variety of purposes and assays, and are illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,734,192 and 5,009,780, for example. Microporous membrane filters and filtration devices containing the same have become particularly useful with many of the recently developed cell and tissue culture techniques and assays, especially in the fields of bacteriology and immunology. Multiwell plates, used in assays, often utilize a vacuum applied to the underside of the membrane as the driving force to generate fluid flow through the membrane. [0003] The microplate has been used as a convenient format for plate processing such as pipetting, washing, shaking, detecting, storing, etc. A variety of assays have been successfully formatted using multiwell filter plates with vacuum driven follow-through. Applications range from Cell Based assays, genomics and proteomic sample prep to immuno-assays. [0004] An example of a protein digestion sample process may include the following steps: [0005] 1. Deposit the protein sample in the wells with the digestion enzymes. [0006] 2. Bind or capture the digested protein in or on the filter structure. [0007] 3. A series of sample washes where the solutions are transferred to waste by vacuum. [0008] 4. Solvent elution to recover the concentrated sample. [0009] Another filter plate application used for a Genomic Sequencing Reaction Clean-up may include the following steps: [0010] 1. Deposit the sample into the wells and concentrate product onto the membrane surface by vacuum filtration to waste. [0011] 2. A series of sample washes where the solutions are transferred to waste by vacuum. Repeated and then filter to dryness. [0012] 3. Re-suspend the sample on the membrane and aspirate off the re-suspended sample from the membrane surface. [0013] Washing to waste is easily accomplished with virtually any of the conventional manifolds available. During a wash step, a relatively large volume (greater than 50 .mu.l) of aqueous solution is added to the wells and drawn to waste. The orientation of the plate is not critical when adding a large volume of liquid, as long as the transfer pipette or other device is able to access the well opening. However with the Protein Digestion example, the elution volumes are relatively small (less than 15 .mu.l) and can be as low as about 1 .mu.l. This small volume needs to be deposited directly on the filter structure in the well to insure the solvent is drawn through the structure for complete elution of the sample. With the other example, Sequencing Reaction Clean-up, the final concentrated sample is between 10-20 .mu.l and must be aspirated off the membrane without damaging the membrane surface. [0014] Many of these and other protocols require the addition of small accurate liquid volumes. When using filter bottom plates the performance benefit is achieved because of the follow-through nature of the filter. To achieve flow through the filter a pressure differential is applied. When using automated equipment, vacuum filtration is the preferred method because of its convenience and safety. To filter by vacuum, many manufacturers provide a vacuum manifold for their products and equipment. Still, accurate liquid transfer is not possible on the deck of a conventional liquid handler, because the position of the plate in the Z-direction can vary during use. Indeed, all of the standard manifolds available today use a compressible gasket material to seal the filter plate, and during the evacuation of the vacuum chamber in the manifold, the plate moves as the gasket is compressed. The amount of plate movement varies, depending in part upon the durometer of the gasket used and the vacuum pressure that is applied. The amount of movement is too great or variable to be able to program a liquid handling robot to account for the movement, making successful, reproducible automated transfer difficult or impossible. Similar problems arise with the Sequencing clean-up where the small volume is aspirated off the surface of the membrane. If the position of the membrane varies then it is not possible to program the automated equipment to aspirate off the surface of the membrane without potentially damaging the membrane surface. [0015] Additionally, to insure quantitative transfer of filtrate from a 384-well filter plate into a collection plate, the spouts must be as close to the collection plate openings as possible. The available manifolds have a gasket sealing to the underside of the filter plate, and thus the only way to use these manifolds to achieve quality transfers is to have the spouts extend below the plate flange and into the wells of the collection plate. However, in such a design, the spouts are exposed and are thus prone to damage and/or contamination. [0016] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a vacuum manifold assembly that is readily adapted to automation protocols. [0017] It is another object of the present invention to provide a vacuum manifold assembly that fixes the position of a sample-processing device, such as a multiwell plate, regardless of the vacuum applied. [0018] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a vacuum manifold assembly with features that enable quantitative filtrate transfer to a collection well when used with multiwell plates with dense arrays of wells. [0019] It is another object of the present invention to provide a vacuum manifold assembly that enables direct transfer on an analytical device such as and MALDI target. [0020] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a vacuum manifold assembly that is modular and adaptable to a variety of applications. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0021] The problems of the prior art have been overcome by the present invention, which provides a laboratory device design particularly for a multiwell plate format that includes a manifold wherein the position of the plate is not a function of gasket compression or vacuum rate applied. The design also can be used with a single well device, particularly when small volume liquid processing applies. In one embodiment of the present invention, the device has a modular design, wherein removable inserts with different functionalities can be positioned between a base component and a collar component. The particular inserts chosen depend on the desired sample preparation or assay to be carried out. The inserts are stacked and are positioned between the base and collar as a unit, so variation in height of the stack within the manifold is as a unit and is constant; i.e., there is no relative movement of one insert with respect to another insert, even upon evacuation of the vacuum chamber. Therefore, the automated liquid handlers can be programmed to position the pipette tip in close proximity to the well bottom or filter surface for small volume dispensing or aspirating. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0022] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a manifold assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0023] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the manifold assembly shown in an assembled condition; [0024] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a manifold assembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; [0025] FIGS. 4A and 4B are exploded views of a manifold assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; [0026] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a multiwell plate sealed to the top of the manifold assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0027] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 5 ; [0028] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly with a bottom gasket in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0029] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of Detail A of FIG. 7 ; [0030] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly with a unitary common gasket used for sealing; [0031] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly with a unitary flexible gasket used for sealing; [0032] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly for three plates; [0033] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly utilizing a deep well filter plate and a regular collection plate; and [0034] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly utilizing a deep well filter plate and collection plate. [0035] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a manifold assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. [0036] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a manifold assembly in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0037] There are two common components in the vacuum manifold assembly in accordance with the present invention, regardless of the application. With reference to FIG. 1 , the common components are a base 12 and a collar 14 , together sized and configured to contain sample-processing components. The base 12 optionally includes a port 13 for communication with a driving force, such as a source of vacuum, preferably a vacuum pump. Alternatively, the port 13 maybe located in a wall of the collar as shown in FIG. 14 . The base 12 also includes a bottom 12 A and one or more sidewalls upstanding therefrom. In the rectangular embodiment shown, there are four connecting sidewalls, namely, opposite sidewalls 12 B and 12 C, and opposite sidewalls 12 D and 12 E. The base includes an outer peripheral flange 4 that in combination with an inner peripheral portion of the sidewalls forms a peripheral groove 6 ( FIG. 8 ) that receives gasket 5 . Preferably the gasket 5 has a lower peripheral portion 5 A that seats in the groove 6 and a top peripheral portion 5 B that extends above the groove 6 . The upper portion 5 B is skewed outwardly so that when the lower portion 5 A of the gasket is in place in the groove 6 , the upper portion 5 B it is aligned or substantially aligned with the outer surface of the side walls 12 B, 12 C, 12 D and 12 E. The gasket 5 thus creates a seal between the base 12 and the component in contact with the gasket 5 , such as the collar 14 , as discussed in greater detail below. Optionally, and as shown in FIG. 1 , one can have of one or more alignment tabs 17 that arise up from the base, preferably at one or more of the intersections of the adjacent sidewalls. The one or more tabs 17 are used to help position the sample processing units (filter plates, MALDI target supports, collection plates, spacers and/or inserts, described below in more detail) into the base 12 and to align the collar 14 to the base 12 . Other configurations are within the scope of the invention, provided a seal is created. [0038] In the embodiment shown, collar 14 also has four lateral walls, namely, opposite walls 14 B, 14 C and opposite walls 14 D, 14 E. The lateral walls must extend downwardly (and/or the side walls of the base 12 must extend upwardly) a distance sufficient to accommodate the components that are positioned between the collar 14 and the base 12 . The vertical length of these lateral walls (and/or the side walls) thus can vary depending upon the application. A skirt 15 preferably is formed along the bottom periphery of the lateral walls such that the skirt 15 positions over the peripheral portion 4 of the base 12 in sealing relationship when in the assembled condition, as seen in FIG. 2 . A gasket 75 is attached to the inner, top surface of the collar 14 around the top opening and is designed to seal against the top surface of a component disposed against the collar, as discussed in greater detail below. The gasket 75 preferably includes a peripheral slot 77 that mates with a corresponding inner peripheral rib 79 in the collar 14 , shown in FIG. 7 . A plurality of rectangular steps 74 may also be provided in the gasket 75 , shown in FIG. 2 , to mate with support insert 37 shown in FIG. 5 . [0039] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to any particular sealing means. For example, instead of separate gaskets that seal the collar and the base, a single unitary gasket 55 or flexible unitary gasket 55 ′ could be used, such as is shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 . [0040] It also will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to any particular sample processing device; devices that enable filtration, collection, digestion of protein by enzymes, wash steps, solvent elution, MALDI TOF, sequencing, PCR clean-up, cell growth, cell lysis, DNA or RNA capture, assaying, etc. can be used in the present invention. [0041] Those skilled in the art will understand that the port for the driving force such as a vacuum port could be in the base 12 as in FIG. 1 or the collar 14 as in FIG. 14 . When the vacuum is used in the collar 14 , a separate and distinct base becomes an optional, although preferred element of the invention. As shown in FIG. 15 , with the port 13 in the collar 14 one may if so desired use any relatively flat surface-such as a bench top, the floor or a wall as the base 12 and the seal is formed by the collar and the first seal between the collar and base (the surface against which it is placed). [0042] The present invention can be used with a variety of plates and other components that are generally used in such plate systems. These include but are not limited to microporous filter plates, ultrafiltration filter plates, chromatographic plates (either containing chromatography media or having a monolithic structure containing such media cast in place in a portion of the plate), cell harvester plates, cell growth plates such as Caco 2 cell growth plates, cell lysis plates, DNA or RNA or plasmid capture plates, collections plates with single or multiple wells, MALDI target trays and/or MALDI targets and the like. [0043] A single plate may be used with the present manifold if desired, either within the collar or on top of the collar (as explained in more detail below). Generally, two or more plates can be used together by stacking them in the proper arrangement such as a microporous filter plate on top of a ultrafilter filtration plate that is on top of collection plate, a microporous filter plate on top of a collection plate, a ultrafilter filtration plate on top of collection plate, a filter plate on top of a chromatographic plate or a DNA or RNA or plasmid capture plate, or the like. [0044] Additionally, spacers may be placed between the plates or under the plate(s) if desired or required for a particular application. Likewise, flow director plates, separate underdrain plates or spout plates between adjacent plates or wicks such as are shown in our co-pending application U.S. Ser. No. 09/565,963, filed May 20, 2000, may also be used in the present invention to direct the flow of fluid in a particular manner. A variety of adaptor plates, half or quarter plates with different configurations and/or characteristics may also be Used in the present invention. [0045] Depending upon the application, generally the sample processing components are molded parts and are solvent compatible. The sample processing devices include single well and multiwell devices. Metals, polyolefins and filled nylon are suitable materials of construction. Rarely used components can be machined. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , the sample processing devices positioned between the base 12 and collar 14 are a filter plate 20 and a collection plate 22 , both preferably being made of polyethylene, and thus the length of the lateral walls of collar 14 (and/or the side walls of the base 12 ) is made sufficient to accommodate these components when assembled to the base 12 . The filter plate 20 and the collection plate 22 are configured for proper stacking and alignment as is known in the art. [0046] The filter plate 20 includes a plurality of wells 21 , preferably arranged in an ordered two-dimensional array. Although a 96-well plate array is illustrated, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number of wells is not limited to 96; standard formats with 384 or fewer or more wells are within the scope of the present invention. The wells are preferably cylindrical with fluid-impermeable walls, and have a width and depth according to the desired use and amount of contents to be sampled. The wells are preferably interconnected and arranged in a uniform array, with uniform depths so that the tops and bottoms of the wells are planar or substantially planar. Preferably the array of wells comprises parallel rows of wells and parallel columns of wells, such that each well not situated on the outer perimeter of the plate is surrounded by eight other wells. Preferably the plate 20 is generally rectangular, and is stacked on top of a collection plate 22 . The filter plate 20 can be of a conventional design. [0047] Each of the wells 21 of the filter plate 20 includes a membrane or porous structure (not shown) sealed to or positioned in the well. The sealing can be accomplished by any suitable means, including heat-sealing, sealing with ultrasonics, solvents, adhesives, by diffusion bonding, compression such as by a ring or skive, etc. The type of membrane suitable is not particularly limited, and by way of example can include nitrocellulose, cellulose acetate, polycarbonate, polypropylene and PVDF microporous membranes, or ultrafiltration membranes such as those made from polysulfone, PVDF, cellulose or the like. Additionally, materials also include glass fibers, glass mats, glass cloths, depth filters, nonwovens, woven meshes and the like or combinations there of, depending upon the application, or the membrane can be cast-in-place as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,048,457 and 6,200,474, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference. A single membrane covering all of the wells could be used, or each well can contain or be associated with its own membrane that can be the same or different from the membrane associated with one or more of the other wells. Each such membrane support is preferably coextensive with the bottom of its respective well. [0048] Each of the wells 21 of the filter plate 20 also includes an outlet, preferably in the form of a spout that is centrally located with respect to each well 21 and preferably does not extend below the plate skirt. [0049] The collection plate 22 preferably is also generally rectangular, and includes a plurality of openings 23 . Each opening 23 corresponds to a well 21 of the filtration plate, such that when in the assembled condition, each well 21 of the filter plate 20 is registered with and thus in fluid communication with a respective opening 23 of the collection plate 22 . Each opening 23 terminates in a bottom 25 , which is preferably closed unless it is an intermediate plate with a collection plate below it or the manifold itself acts as a sump or collection plate where optionally a spacer, such as is shown in FIG. 3 and discussed below, may be used. The collection plate 22 can be of a conventional design. [0050] The filter plate 20 has a lower peripheral skirt 27 that allows it to be stacked over the collection plate 22 . When the filter plate 20 is stacked over the collection plate 22 as in the FIG. 1 embodiment, proper alignment is ensured, such that each of the spouts is positioned directly over and in close proximity to a respective opening 23 in the collection plate 22 . The proximity and alignment of each spout with a respective opening prevents cross-talk among neighboring wells. The stacked plates are positioned inside the base 12 as an integral unit. The collar 14 is positioned over the two plates and sits against the base flange gasket 5 , which seals the base 12 to the collar 14 . This also positions the collar gasket 75 on the top perimeter edge of the filter plate 20 . When vacuum is applied to the manifold, the collar 14 is the only moving component. As additional vacuum is applied, the vacuum causes the collar 14 to compress both gaskets. However, the filter plate 20 and collection plate 21 remain fixed in the loaded position because they make up a solid stack assembly that includes the base 12 , the collection plate 21 and the filter plate 20 that is independent of and not influenced by the relative movement of the collar 14 . Thus, the stack height of the filter plate and collection plate remains constant. A liquid handler can be programmed to dispense onto the membrane in the filter plate 20 , regardless of whether the assembly is under vacuum, since the stack height is not changed by the application of vacuum. The assembly, therefore, is readily adaptable to automation protocols and allows for quantitative filtrate transfer. [0051] Similarly, when using an alternative embodiment of one seal such as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 a similar sealing action occurs wherein the collar 14 moves to compress the gasket. The height of the plate(s) remains the same with or without the application of the vacuum. [0052] Since the manifold design of the present invention is modular, different components can be positioned between the base and the collar (as mentioned above), allowing a variety of applications to be performed. In one embodiment, ( FIG. 3 ) where. the application requires a filter plate 20 , but does not require a collection plate 22 , a spacer or removable support 80 can replace the collection plate thereby maintaining the unit stack height ( FIG. 3 ). The spacer or removable support 80 positions the filter plate 20 in the proper x- and y-axis orientation so that robotics can deliver sample to the wells 21 of the filter plate 20 . It also positions the filter plate 20 at the proper stack height so that the collar 14 can seal to the base 12 and plate 20 simultaneously upon the application of vacuum. Accordingly, preferably the spacer or support 80 is dimensioned similar to the collection plate 20 , as shown. In the embodiment shown, the spacer or support 80 includes a central beam 81 (positioned so as to not interfere with the operation of the filter plate) to help support the filter plate 20 . [0053] The top seal gasket 75 on the collar 14 can be used to create a seal when it is desired to carry out a quick wash procedure by placing the filter plate on top of the collar 14 rather than inside the manifold assembly. Indeed, this gasket can accept a variety of support structures for use with unique applications, such as a MULTISCREEN®. Underdrain support grid commercially available from Millipore Corporation. [0054] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate one embodiment of a bottom gasket 5 ′. In this embodiment, the gasket 5 ′ is positioned in the groove 6 in base 12 as best seen in FIG. 8 . It includes a wiper portion 51 that extends above the groove 6 and into recess 6 ′ formed in skirt 15 of the collar 14 as shown. The height of the wiper portion 51 and its position in the recess 6 ′ allows for some variability in the positioning of the collar 14 and base 12 (and thus variability in the stack height of the components contained between the collar and base) without sacrificing the integrity of the seal. [0055] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a further embodiment of the manifold of the present invention. This embodiment is useful for the direct transferring of eluant from filter plate 20 to one or more MALDI targets. Specifically, sample preparation prior to analysis by MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry often involves desalting and concentration of samples (e.g., peptides). Simultaneous preparation and analysis of multiple samples is often desirable, and can be carried out using the manifold assembly of the present invention. Accordingly, instead of the collection plate 21 of the embodiment of FIG. 1 , or the support tray of the embodiment of FIG. 3 , a target tray 40 is used. The design of the target tray 40 is not particular limited, and will depend upon the configuration of the target(s) chosen. The tray 40 can hold one or more targets. For example, in the FIG. 4A embodiment, four MALDI targets 41 commercially available from Applera Corporation are used. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4B , a single target 41 ′ such as a MALDI target commercially available from Bruker Daltonics can be used. The target tray 40 is positioned under the spouts of each well in the filter plate 20 , with the correct stack height enabling the collar 14 to seal against the base 12 as before. As in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 3 , the application of vacuum (e.g., the transition from atmospheric pressure to a different pressure) does not result in any z-axis movement of the operative component, which in this case is the filter plate stacked on top of the MALDI target(s). [0056] In each of these embodiments, the stack height is critical to the sealing of the assembly. If a deep well filter plate were used, for example, a taller collar 14 and/or base 12 , or an extension with appropriately located additional sealing gaskets, can be used, to insure the seal between the top of the plate and the flange on the base 12 . FIG. 12 shows the use of a deep well filter plate 20 B. with a regular depth collection plate 22 in which the plate is designed to fit within the opening of the collar 14 so that a longer collar and/or base is not needed. FIG. 13 shows a system using a deep well filter plate 20 B and a deep well collection plate 22 B. In this embodiment, the collar 14 B has been made taller to provide the exact height requirement for the desired plates used. [0057] The components of the stacked unit (e.g., the filter plate 20 and collection plate 22 , or the filter plate 20 , target 41 and target tray 40 ) do not move independently of one another, since they are positioned in stacked relationship on the base 12 and any movement is limited to the collar 14 . As a result, their relative position remains constant regardless of whether the assembly is under vacuum, thereby allowing a liquid handler to be programmed to dispense to the unit, for example. [0058] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the versatility of the manifold assembly of the present invention. In this embodiment, the collar 14 is place in sealing relationship with base 12 , and a sample preparation device such as a multiwell plate 20 is placed on the top surface of the collar 14 . An optional grid 37 can be positioned under the plate 20 to assist in supporting the plate 20 . The plate 20 seals against the top gasket positioned in the collar 14 . Accordingly, vacuum can be used as the driving force to filter sample through the plate 20 . This enables a quick wash procedure without having to place the filter plate inside the manifold. The top gasket can accept a wide variety of support structures for use with unique applications, such as a 384 SEQ plate rib structure for drop removal and a Multiscreen® underdrain support grid, both commercially available from Millipore Corporation. [0059] Since the modular design of the manifold assembly allows for various applications, the components of the present invention can be sold as a kit. For example, several different size collars can be provided in the kit in order to accommodate sample processing devices having different stack heights, such as where deep well filtration plates are used. Similarly, numerous different sample processing devices can be provided in the kit, including filtration plates with membranes of different functionality, collection plates, MALDI TOF targets, support grids, underdrains, washing inserts, etc.
A laboratory device design particularly for a multiplate format that includes a manifold wherein the position of the plate is not a function of gasket compression or vacuum rate applied. In one embodiment, the device has a modular design, wherein one or more removable inserts, preferably with different functionalities can be positioned between a base component and a collar component. The particular insert(s) chosen depend on the desired sample preparation or assay to be carried out. The insert(s) are stacked and are positioned between the base and collar as a unit, so that the stack within the manifold does not move during evacuation of the vacuum chamber. The consistent position of the insert(s) facilitates using vacuum sample processing with automated liquid handlers.
1
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/999,206, filed Nov. 24, 2004, which is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/JP02/05340, filed May 31, 2002, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] The present invention relates to a communication method and device in a mobile communication system using a downlink shared channel (DSCH). BACKGROUND ART [0003] In recent years, development of CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) communication systems has proceeded apace, and the need to shift to Wideband-CDMA (W-CDMA) systems that provide a wider bandwidth than previously in order to exchange not merely voice but also large-capacity data such as images or video at high speed, and with high quality and efficiency has increased. [0004] Communication systems adapted to these demands are generally called third generation mobile communication systems and the standards relating thereto are co-coordinated by the 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project), which is the world standardization organization; introduction of such systems has already begun. [0005] In 3GPP, a DSCH (downlink shared channel) is defined as a downlink channel that is used in shared fashion by a plurality of mobiles (see 3GPP TS 25.427, TS 25.435). With DSCH, a single channel can be shared by a large number of mobiles and flexible power control can be achieved. [0000] In this way, high-speed and high-efficiency data communication can be implemented with limited wireless resources so the importance of this technique is expected to increase in the future. [0006] FIG. 1A to 1 C show an outline of downlink data communication (communication to mobiles) in a communication system employing DSCH. This system comprises a core network 100 , which is a wired network, a wireless network control device 101 , base stations 102 ′ and mobiles 103 . [0007] DSCH is the name given to the channel between the wireless network control device 101 and the base stations 102 ; this DSCH is mapped onto a PDSCH (physical downlink shared channel), which is one of the physical channels on wireless. [0008] Also, for a single mobile 103 , there is a single individually assigned channel, which is called a dedicated channel (DCH) between the wireless network control device 101 and a base station 102 , and which is called a dedicated physical channel (DPCH) on wireless. The mapping of the channels is defined in 3GPP TS 25.301. [0009] As shown in FIG. 1A , when data is transmitted on a DSCH, it is necessary to transmit control data, called signaling, on the DPCH. The signaling data is used to report to the mobile 1 . 03 whether or not data is present on the PDSCH, at a timing corresponding to this signaling. [0010] Specifically, the mobile 103 is not always in receiving condition in regard to the PDSCH but only receives data on the PDSCH if signaling data has been received on the DPCH. [0011] The ability to receive data on the DSCH therefore only exists in the case where a dedicated CH is set up in respect of the mobile 103 ; data cannot be received on the DSCH in the idle state or in a condition in which a dedicated channel is not set up. It should be noted that the mobile 103 is normally able to receive signaling data on the DPCH. [0012] Mapping of the aforesaid signaling data wirelessly onto DPCH is as described above. Two methods are laid down between the wireless network control device 101 and base station 102 . In one case, data is transmitted on DCH. In the other case, data is transmitted on another channel established for the signaling. [0013] Thereupon, after the mobile 103 has received the signaling data, in order to start preparation for receiving the DSCH, the DSCH data must be transmitted later than the signaling by a delay time ΔT. [0014] The DSCH data is transmitted in accordance with a standard timing that is set for each sector, so the reception timings thereof are the same for the mobiles 103 . In contrast, the DPCH reception timings are different for each of the mobiles 103 . Consequently, the aforesaid delay time ΔT also differs for each mobile 103 . The wireless network control device 101 must therefore perform transmission timing control of the signaling data, in consideration the delay time ΔT for each mobile 103 . [0015] It should be noted that the delay time ΔT is respectively reported to the wireless network control device 101 , base station 102 and mobile 103 by the application, at the time point of call set-up. [0016] Also, as shown in FIG. 1B , the identifier ID 104 - 2 that is applied to each mobile is stored in the DSCH frame 104 in addition to the user data 104 - 1 . This is necessary in order that the DSCH frame 104 should be correctly transmitted to a specified mobile 103 . [0017] For this reason, as shown in FIG. 1C , transmission can only be effected in respect of a single mobile 103 in a single transmission slot; a DSCH frame that is transmitted in this transmission slot cannot be simultaneously received by a plurality of mobiles 103 . [0018] FIG. 2 shows an example of the processing sequence in DSCH transmission. When the wireless network control device 101 receives (step S 1 ) user data 104 - 1 from the core network 100 , it generates a DSCH frame 104 (processing step P 1 ) from the information that was already set as the user data 104 - 1 . After this, the transmission timing of the DSCH frame 104 is determined (processing step P 2 ). [0019] Then, after the signaling data has been generated (processing step P 3 ), the transmission timing of the signaling data is determined (processing step P 4 ) using the aforesaid delay time Δ T, from the DSCH frame transmission timing. The signaling data is transmitted (step S 2 ) to the mobile 103 through the base station 102 in accordance with the signaling transmission timing. [0020] When a mobile 10 . 3 receives signaling data, it becomes aware of the existence of a DSCH frame that is to be received on the PDSCH, and starts preparation to receive this DSCH frame (processing step P 5 ). After this, the wireless network control device 101 transmits the DSCH frame to the mobile 103 (step S 3 ) through the base station 102 in accordance with the DSCH frame transmission timing. [0021] After receiving this DSCH frame, the mobile 103 compares the mobile identifier ID 104 - 2 in the data with its own ID (processing step P 6 ) and, if they agree, performs subsequent data processing. Also, if the mobile ID 104 - 2 in the DSCH frame data does not agree with its own ID, it discards this DSCH frame (processing step P 7 ). DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [0022] As described above, since a single DSCH channel is shared by a large number of mobiles 103 , high-speed/high efficiency wireless communication can be achieved. However, as shown in FIG. 1 , transmission can only be effected in respect of a single mobile 103 in a single transmission slot. Thus, the DSCH frame that is transmitted in the transmission slot (see FIG. 1C ) cannot be simultaneously received by a plurality of mobiles 103 . [0023] In the future, with improvements in transmission rate, it is planned to perfect a large-capacity service providing music delivery and video delivery, but when DSCH is employed in the current technology, when distributing the same data to a plurality of mobiles 103 in this way, because of the restrictions described above, it is necessary to transmit exactly the same data to as many mobiles as are to receive it. There is therefore considerable waste from the point of view of efficiency of use of wireless and wired transmission channels and it is thought that, as a result of the accumulation of the amount of data destined for the mobiles, the DSCH rate will be adversely affected and communication quality will tend to be lowered. [0024] Although this problem may apparently be solved by fortifying the infrastructure, this results in increased costs of the infrastructure and so in increased communication charges and cannot but put a brake on future diversification and development of service modes. [0025] An object of the present invention is therefore to provide an efficient communication method and device based on the current DSCH technique, whereby diverse services, in particular distribution system services (multi-cast services) can be implemented in future by improving the communication rate. [0026] Furthermore, from the point of view of development costs and development time, it is important to take great pains not to alter the existing 3GPP regulations. Also, DSCH has the characteristic feature that reception is only possible when a dedicated CH has been set up in respect of a mobile. In view of this aspect, an object of the present invention is to provide a communication method and device aimed at implementing further new services wherein for example data distribution is performed on DSCH only during telephone service. [0027] A characteristic feature of a communication method and device according to the present invention capable of meeting this object and comprising a wireless network control device, base stations and mobiles on which there is respectively installed one or more communication protocol as specified by for example 3GPP is the performance of multi-cast communication of data in respect of one or more mobiles using DSCH. [0028] In addition, said wireless network control device according to the present invention is characterized by the provision of a functional section that processes DSCH internally and, in addition, the provision of table means that stores various types of setting information relating to DSCH communication and DSCH multi-cast communication. Using these items of information, multi-cast communication (including unicast communication) is implemented using DSCH in respect of one or more mobiles. [0029] Also, a base station in accordance with the present invention comprises a function of transmitting DSCH data and/or said signaling data received from the wireless network control device to the mobiles through a wireless circuit. [0030] Furthermore, in addition to the ordinary functions, a mobile may comprise an identification function in respect of whether data on the DSCH is unicast or multicast. [0031] Further features of the present invention will become clear from embodiments of the present invention that are described below with reference to the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0032] FIG. 1 is a view showing an outline of downlink data communication (communication to mobiles) in a communication system employing DSCH. [0033] FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of a processing sequence during DSCH transmission. [0034] FIG. 3 is a view given in explanation of an outline of a multicast DSCH communication method according to the present invention. [0035] FIG. 4 is an operating sequence diagram of the method of multicast DSCH communication of FIG. 3 . [0036] FIG. 5 is a view showing an embodiment of a wireless network control device 303 according to the present invention. [0037] FIG. 6 is a view showing a practical example of a multicast setting table 502 . [0038] FIG. 7 is a view showing a practical example of a DSCH setting table 503 . [0039] FIG. 8 is a view showing what sort of information is set in the multicast setting table 502 . [0040] FIG. 9 is a view showing what sort of information is set in the DSCH setting table 503 . [0041] FIG. 10 is a view showing the correspondence of system state with a specific example. [0042] FIG. 11 is a view showing the processing sequence from start-up of the system up to commencement of multicast communication. [0043] FIG. 12 is a view showing a specific example of a method of signaling. [0044] FIG. 13 is a view showing the processing flow during DSCH transmission in a wireless network control device 303 , in particular a DSCH processing section 500 and macro diversity processing section 505 . [0045] FIG. 14 is a view showing the processing flow during DSCH reception in a mobile. [0046] FIG. 15 is a view given in explanation of the operation when a control frame is received from a base station 304 . DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0047] FIG. 3 is a view given in explanation of an outline of a multicast DSCH communication method according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is an operating sequence diagram of the multicast DSCH communication method according to FIG. 3 . [0048] As described in FIG. 1 , the reason why data can only be received by a single mobile for a single transmission slot is that a mobile ID is present in the DSCH frame. [0049] Consequently, according to the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3B , identification information (multicast ID) for multicast is stored in the mobile ID storage area 306 - 2 of the DSCH frame 306 comprising the user data storage area 306 - 1 and mobile identifier ID storage area 306 - 2 . [0050] In this way, it is possible to arrange that a single DSCH frame 306 can be simultaneously received by a plurality of mobiles 300 to 302 . FIG. 3A shows how a DSCH frame 306 using the aforesaid multicast ID is simultaneously received after reception of signaling data on their respective DPCHs by a plurality of mobiles 300 to 302 . [0051] The sequence during multicast communication using the DSCH described in FIG. 3 will be further described using FIG. 4 . When the wireless network control device 303 receives user data from the core network 100 (not shown in FIG. 3 ) (step S 11 ), it determines whether this user data is to be multicast or not; if this data is not to be multicast, it performs unicast processing in accordance with the sequence described in FIG. 2 . [0052] If the user data received from the core network 100 is to be multicast, the wireless network control device 303 generates the DSCH frame 306 of FIG. 3B (processing step P 11 ) from the information that was already set as the user data in question. [0053] After this, the transmission timing of the DSCH frame 306 is determined (processing step P 12 ). At this point, the multicast ID is stored in the multicast ID storage region 306 - 2 described in FIG. 3 in the DSCH frame 306 . [0054] Next, based on the information relating to multicasting that is set therein, the wireless network control device 303 selects mobiles 300 to 302 in respective of which multicasting is to be performed (processing step P 13 ) and determines (processing step P 14 ) the transmission timing of the signaling frame and the generation of the signaling data for each mobile that is the subject of this multicasting. [0055] The respective signaling data are transmitted (step S 12 ) to all the mobiles 300 to 302 that are the subject of multicasting through the base stations 304 , with the aforesaid signaling transmission timing. When the mobiles receive this signaling, they recognize the presence of the DSCH frame that is to be received on PDSCH and commence preparations for reception of this DCSH frame (processing steps P 14 - 1 to P 14 - 3 ). [0056] After this, the wireless network control device 303 transmits the DSCH frame through the base stations of 304 to the mobiles 300 to 302 : with the DSCH frame transmission timing (step S 13 ). [0057] After the mobiles have all received the DSCH frame 306 transmitted as described above, they check the mobile identifier ID in the respectively received data (processing step P 15 ) and, if the identifier ID agrees with the multicast ID, continue processing of this received data (processing step P 16 ). If the ID is not a multicast ID, in the processing step P 6 in the sequence of FIG. 2 , the mobiles compare the ID with their own IDs, respectively and, if they agree, perform the subsequent data processing. Also, if the ID in the received data and their own ID do not agree, they discard the DSCH frame 306 (processing step P 7 ). [0058] An embodiment of a wireless network control device 3 . 03 that executes this processing in a sequence in accordance with the present invention as described above will now be described. [0059] FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of a wireless network control device 303 according to the present invention. [0060] The wireless network control device 303 comprises a DSCH processing section 500 , macro diversity processing section 505 , main control section. 507 and circuit terminating section 506 ; the respective functional sections are connected by an internal bus 501 . [0061] The macro diversity processing section 505 is a functional section for implementing macro diversity, which is a characteristic technique in mobile communication. In macro diversity, a plurality of channels are set up between a given node and a given mobile and identical data are copied and transmitted to all of the plurality of channels by the transmitting end. This is employed because communication quality such as during handover is improved by selecting at the receiving end the data of highest quality, of the identical data received on the plurality of channels. [0062] Specifically, the macro diversity processing section 505 chiefly performs the following two processes. [0063] (1) The data destined for a given mobile received from the core network 100 is copied to as many channels as are set up on the mobile in question, and transmission is performed to the mobile on all these set channels. [0064] (2) The respective qualities of the data received on the plurality of channels from a given mobile are evaluated and the data that afford the best quality are selected and transmitted to the core network 100 . [0065] The circuit terminating section 506 has the function of terminating all circuits such as on the side of the core network 100 or on the side of the base stations 304 and of using the channel to transmit data to a processing block in a suitable device or another node. [0066] Apart from setting the information of the various functional blocks within the device, the main control section 507 has the function of exchanging control information with other nodes. [0067] The DSCH processing section 500 comprises a DSCH frame processing section 504 that performs therein DSCH frame generation and transmission timing adjustment etc, a multicast setting table 502 that stores information relating to multicasting using DSCH, and a DSCH setting table 503 that stores information for ordinary DSCH communication. [0068] The control information received from the main control section 507 etc is set and stored in the multicast setting table 502 and/or the DSCH setting table 503 . This information that has thus been set and stored is referenced during for example frame generation processing or transmission timing determination by the DSCH frame processing section 504 . [0069] It should be noted that, although, in the embodiment of FIG. 5 , the DSCH processing section 500 and the macro diversity processing section 505 were constituted as separate functional blocks, this DSCH processing section 500 and macro diversity processing section 505 could be substantially constituted by a single functional block. [0070] FIG. 6 shows a practical example of a multicast setting table 502 . The layout of the multicast setting table 502 is that a single row shows the setting information of a single multicast group; this setting information comprises (a) a multicast channel identifier ID, (b) a DSCH identifier ID, (c) the number of mobiles participating in this multicast group and (d) the identifier IDs of these mobiles. [0071] The details of these respective items of setting information are described below. [0072] (a) “Multicast Channel Identifier ID” [0073] This is the identifier of the multicast data distribution channel that is set up between the wireless network control device 303 and the core network 100 . Although, in this case, it was assumed that a single multicast channel was always mapped onto a single DSCH, depending on the layout of the table, it would be possible to map a single multicast channel onto a plurality of DSCHs. [0074] (b) “DSCH Identifier ID” [0075] This is the identifier that is applied to a DSCH. In this case also, it is assumed that a single multicast channel is mapped onto a single DSCH, but, depending on the layout of the table, it would be possible to map a plurality of multicast channels onto a single DSCH. [0000] (c) “Number of Mobiles” [0076] This indicates the number of mobiles participating in a multicast group in the DSCH indicated by the DSCH identifier ID. [0077] (d) “Mobile Identifier IDs” [0078] This is a list, having the same number of entries as the number of mobiles, of the IDs that distinguish the mobiles that participate in the multicast group. [0079] FIG. 7 shows a practical example of the DSCH setting table 503 . One row of the layout of the DSCH setting table 503 indicates the setting information relating to a single DSCH; this setting information comprises: (a) the identifier ID of the dedicated channel, (b) a DSCH identifier ID, (c) the identifier IDs of the mobiles corresponding to the identifier ID of the dedicated channel, and (d) the timing offsets in the signal transmission that is set up in respect of the mobiles. [0080] The details of the respective items of setting information are described below. [0081] (a) “Identifier ID of the Dedicated Channel” [0082] This is the identifier of the channel that is uniquely allocated to the respective mobiles and that is set up between the wireless network control device 303 and the core network 100 . A single dedicated channel is always mapped onto a single DSCH. [0000] (b) “DSCH Identifier ID” [0083] This is the identifier that is applied to the DSCH. A single dedicated channel is mapped to a single DSCH. [0000] (c) “Mobile Identifier IDs” [0084] These are the identifier IDs of the mobiles to which the dedicated channel is allocated. [0085] (d) “Timing Offset” [0086] This expresses the amount of offset from the reference timing in the wireless network control device; transmission is effected to the mobiles with a timing that is adjusted by the amount of this offset from this reference timing. [0087] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are views indicating what information is set in the multicast setting table 502 and the DSCH setting table 503 , respectively, corresponding to the specific example of system condition shown in FIG. 10 . [0088] FIG. 10 shows only the wireless network control device 304 ; the base stations 304 are not shown. In this specific example, three DSCHs, # 0 to # 2 are set up; the multicast channels MC_CH # 0 and # 1 and the dedicated channels CH # 0 to # 2 are accommodated on the DSCH # 0 ; the multicast channel MC_CH # 2 and the dedicated channels' CH # 3 to # 6 are accommodated on the DSCH # 1 ; and the dedicated channels CH # 7 to # 8 are accommodated on the DSCH # 2 . [0089] Furthermore, the mobiles # 0 to # 2 perform communication through the DSCH # 0 , the mobiles # 0 and # 2 are mobiles participating in multicasting, while the mobile # 1 is a mobile that does not participate in multicasting. [0090] Also, the mobiles # 3 to # 5 perform communication through the DSCH # 1 and, of these, the mobiles # 3 to # 5 are mobiles participating in multicasting while the mobile # 6 is a mobile that does not participate in multicasting. Further, the mobiles # 7 , # 8 perform communication through the DSCH # 2 , but these mobiles do not participate in multicasting. [0091] In regard to the condition of FIG. 10 , the multicast setting table 502 of FIG. 8 has registered therein (a) which multicast channels are (b) accommodated on which DSCH and (c) the number of multicast participant mobiles and (d) the identifier IDs of the participant mobiles. [0092] In contrast, the DSCH setting table 503 of FIG. 9 has registered therein (a) of the dedicated channel IDs, (b) the subject DSCH identifier IDs that are accommodated therein, and (c) the corresponding mobile identifier IDs. [0093] FIG. 11 is a view showing the processing sequence from start-up of the system up to commencement of multicast communication. [0094] When the mobile network i.e. the wireless network control device 303 and the base stations 304 are started up, various settings are performed (processing step P 21 ) in accordance with a predetermined procedure, between these nodes. At this point, setting of the DSCHs employed in the present invention is also performed (processing step P 22 ). [0095] When DSCH setting is completed, next, setting of the data channels for multicasting between the core network 100 and the wireless network control device 303 is performed (processing step P 23 ). Although not shown in FIG. 11 , it is assumed that the data channel for multicasting is connected for example to a data distribution server within the core network 100 (processing step P 24 ). [0096] After set-up of the data channel for multicasting has been completed, the multicasting setting table 502 within the wireless network device is updated (processing step P 24 ) in accordance with the mapping information of the data channels for multicasting that have been set up and the DSCHs. [0097] After this, communication of the multicast data from for example the data distribution server is commenced (step S 21 ). At this stage, there need not necessarily be any mobile that receives the multicast data. Alternatively, it is also possible to stop transmission of the multicast data and to issue the data transmission commencement request to the server at a time-point where the mobiles that are to receive the multicast data are registered. [0098] After this, when call connection of a particular mobile is effected (processing step P 25 ), and when, by a prescribed procedure, a changeover decision is made (processing step P 26 ) to use DSCH, the wireless network control device adds this mobile to the DSCH setting table 503 : (processing step P 27 ). [0099] After this, instructions to change over to the DSCH are transmitted to the mobile 300 in question via the base station 304 (step S 22 ). [0100] When the mobile 300 receives the instructions to change over to DSCH, it extracts and sets the parameters for DSCH reception that are contained in the changeover instruction signal (processing step P 28 ). [0101] In addition, a decision is made as to whether or not the mobile 300 in question is to participate in the multicast transmission to which DSCH is being applied (processing step P 29 ) and the mobile 300 in question returns (step S 23 ) to the wireless network control device through the base station a response message of completion of DSCH changeover, including the result of this decision. [0102] Regarding this decision as to whether or not the mobile 300 is to participate in multicast communication, the methods may be considered of setting the result of this decision beforehand by the user in the mobile or of setting the result of this decision in the network. [0103] When the wireless network control device 303 receives from the mobile 300 the DSCH changeover response, if this contains a request to participate in multicasting, it updates the multicast setting table 502 therein to add the mobile in question (processing step P 30 ). [0104] It should be noted that, if, as the method whereby it is decided whether or not the aforesaid mobile is to participate in multicast communication, the method is adopted of setting the result of this decision in the network, authentication processing may be performed in the network 100 in the event of reception of a DSCH changeover response from the mobile, if the mobile is to participate in the multicast communication, processing may be performed to add the mobile to the multicast setting table 502 . [0105] After the mobile has been added to the multicast setting table 502 , data is distributed (step S 24 ) from the server or the like. This distribution data is assembled into DSCH frames in the DSCH processing section 500 in the wireless network control device 303 and its transmission timing is determined (processing step P 31 ). After this, signaling in respect of the added mobile (step S 25 ) and transmission of the DSCH frame (step 26 ) are performed. [0106] For its part, after the mobile has received the signaling that has been transmitted thereto by the wireless network control device. 303 , DSCH reception processing (processing step P 32 ) is initiated. DSCH frame reception processing (processing step P 33 ) is performed as described with reference to FIG. 2 (processing steps P 6 and P 7 ) and FIG. 4 (processing steps P 15 , P 16 ). [0107] FIG. 12 shows a specific example of a method of signaling. Signaling must be transmitted to each mobile, so channels for signaling transmission must be set up allocated in units of the number of mobiles. [0108] In 3GPP, as the channels for signaling, two methods are laid down, namely, a method employing a DCH and a method of setting up a new channel (signaling bearer) for signaling. Referring to FIG. 12 , a description will now be given as to how signaling is actually transmitted within the wireless network control device 303 in the above two cases. [0109] As described above, since signaling is generated and transmitted when data is transmitted on the DSCH, the opportunity for signaling transmission is created by the DSCH processing section 500 . [0110] This will be described with reference to the following four cases. [0111] [Case A] [0112] The case A shown in FIG. 12A is a case in which signaling is transmitted with DCH. In accordance with the embodiment described in FIG. 5 , the DCH is terminated by the macro diversity processing section 505 , so in the event of signaling transmission the DSCH processing section 500 must output a signaling transmission instruction to the macro diversity processing section 505 . [0113] At this juncture, the macro diversity processing section 505 must be able to identify in respect of which mobile (DCH) signaling is being transmitted, so the DSCH processing section 500 must give instructions for signaling transmission to the macro diversity processing section 505 and hand over the identifier ID of the mobile that is the subject of this transmission. At this juncture, in order for the transmission instruction and mobile identifier ID to be exchanged between the DSCH processing section 500 and the macro diversity processing section 505 , the method of FIG. 5 of employing an internal bus or the method of providing a dedicated control path for signal exchange may be considered. [0114] The macro diversity processing section 505 generates signaling data from the signaling transmission instruction and mobile identifier ID received from the DSCH processing section 500 and transmits this signaling data on the corresponding DCH. Although not shown in FIG. 5 , the macro diversity processing section 505 is internally provided with mapping table means of the mobile identifier ID and DCH. [0115] [Case B] [0116] Case B, shown in FIG. 12B , is also a case in which signaling is transmitted with DCH. Unlike the case of FIG. 12A , it has a characteristic feature in regard to the method whereby generation and transmission of the signaling data are performed by the DSCH processing section 500 and mapping of the signaling data onto the DCH is performed by the circuit terminating section 506 . [0117] The DSCH processing section 500 performs transmission of signaling data to the circuit terminating section 506 , using the same channel ID as the channel of the DCH where the macro diversity processing section 505 terminates. The channel ID whereby signaling transmission was performed by the DSCH processing section 500 is the same as the ID of the DCH corresponding to the mobile that is to receive the signaling, so the signaling data is merged with the DCH in the circuit terminating section 506 before being transmitted to the corresponding mobile through the base station 304 . [0118] It should be noted that, in this case, the DSCH processing section 500 must simultaneously identify the channel ID of the DCH corresponding to the mobile that is registered. This can be achieved by storing as additional information in the DSCH setting table 503 shown in FIG. 7 . [0119] [Case C] [0120] In case C shown in FIG. 12C , a channel for signaling (signaling bearer) is newly set up between the DSCH processing section 500 and base station 304 . This is an example in which signaling data is transmitted using this channel. In this case, the signaling data that is generated in the DSCH processing section 500 is transmitted by the signaling bearer at which the DSCH processing section 500 terminates, without modification. [0121] [Case D] [0122] In the case D shown in FIG. 12D , a channel for signaling (signaling bearer) is newly set up between the macro diversity processing section 505 and the base station 304 ; this is an example of the case where signaling data is transmitted using this channel. This case also is the same as case A. [0123] FIG. 13 is a view showing the processing flow during DSCH transmission in the wireless network control device 303 , in particular in the DSCH processing section 500 and the macro diversity processing section 505 . In this case, case A of FIG. 12A is employed as the signaling method. [0124] When the DSCH processing section 500 receives data from the core network 100 (processing step P 40 , Yes), the channel ID of the received data is extracted (processing step P 41 ). The DSCH processing section 500 checks for the existence of the channel ID extracted in the processing step P 41 in the multicast setting table 502 (processing step P 42 ) by referencing this multicast setting table 502 . If the channel ID extracted in the processing step P 41 is present in the multicast setting table 502 (processing step P 42 , Yes), the DSCH processing section 500 extracts the DSCH-ID and all of the mobile IDs belonging to the DSCH from the multicast setting table 502 (processing step P 44 ). [0125] Next, if not even one mobile ID is present in the multicast setting table 502 (processing step P 45 , No) nor in the DSCH setting table 503 (processing step P 43 , No), the data is discarded (processing step P 46 ). [0126] If one or more mobile ID is present in the multicast setting table 502 (processing step P 45 , Yes) the DSCH processing section 500 applies the data received in processing step P 1 to the multicast ID to generate the DSCH frame (processing step P 47 ). [0127] On the other hand, if, in processing step P 42 , the channel ID extracted in processing step P 41 is not present in the multicast setting table 50 . 2 (processing step P 42 , No), the DSCH processing section 500 checks to ascertain whether or not the extracted channel ID is present in the DSCH setting table 503 (processing step P 48 ). [0128] If, in processing step P 48 , the extracted channel ID is not present in the DSCH setting table 503 , the DSCH processing section 500 discards the data received in the processing step P 40 (processing step P 49 ). [0129] If, in the processing step P 49 , the extracted channel ID is present in the DSCH setting table 503 (processing step P 48 , Yes), the DSCH processing section 500 extracts the DSCH-ID and mobile ID from the DSCH setting table 503 (processing step P 50 ). After this, the extracted mobile ID is applied to the data received in the processing step P 1 and the DSCH frame is generated (processing step P 51 ). [0130] Next, after the DSCH frame has been generated in the processing steps P 47 , P 51 , the DSCH processing section 500 determines the transmission timing of the DSCH frame that has been generated (processing step P 52 ) and acquires the timing offset of the mobile corresponding to this DSCH from the DSCH setting table 503 (processing step P 53 ). [0131] In this way, the signaling data transmission timing is calculated (processing step P 54 ) from the DSCH frame transmission timing and the timing offset of the mobile. After this the DSCH processing section 500 reports the mobile ID and the signaling transmission instruction to the macro diversity processing section 505 (processing step P 55 ) in accordance with the signaling timing determined in processing step P 54 . [0132] The macro diversity processing section 505 generates a signaling frame using the mobile ID and the signaling transmission instruction that are handed over from the DSCH processing section 500 , and transmits this signaling frame on the corresponding DCH (processing step P 56 ). [0133] The processing of the aforesaid steps. P 52 to P 56 is executed a number of times equal to the number of mobiles. After this, the DSCH processing section- 500 transmits (processing step P 57 ) the DSCH frame generated in the processing step P 47 or in the processing step-P 51 on the DSCH in accordance with the DSCH frame-transmission timing that was determined in the processing step P 52 . [0134] FIG. 14 is a view showing the processing flow during DSCH reception by a mobile. In FIG. 14 , it is assumed that the dedicated channels (DCH, DPCH) are already set up by a prescribed procedure at the mobile. [0135] When the mobile receives signaling on the DPCH (processing step P 60 , Yes)), the DSCH reception preparation is commenced (processing step P 61 ) and the DSCH frame on the PDSCH is received (processing step P 62 ). [0136] After this, an error check of the DSCH frame is performed (processing step P 63 ). If any abnormality in the data is found, the received DSCH frame is discarded (processing step. P 64 ). [0137] If the received DSCH frame is normal (processing step P 63 , Yes), the identifier ID in the DSCH frame is checked (processing step P 65 ) and if this identifier ID is a multicast ID (processing step P 66 , Yes), data processing as multicast data is performed (processing step P 67 ). [0138] On the other hand, if, in processing step P 66 , it is found that the identifier ID is not a multicast ID, the identifier ID in the DSCH frame is compared with the mobile's own identifier ID (processing step P 68 ) and if it is not found to agree with the mobile's own identifier ID (processing step P 68 , No), the received DSCH frame is discarded (processing step P 64 ). [0139] If the identifier ID agrees with the mobile's own identifier ID (processing step P 68 , Yes), ordinary unicast processing is performed (processing step P 67 ). [0140] FIG. 15 describes the operation when a control frame is received from the base station 304 . In 3GPP, various control frames are defined between the wireless network control device 303 and base station 304 . One of these is a control frame called the timing adjustment control frame. This is employed to adjust the channel timing that is set between the wireless network control device and the base station. [0141] The timing adjustment control frame is used to store and transmit the difference with respect to the appropriate reception timing from the base station 304 to the wireless network control device 303 , in cases where the data that was transmitted by the wireless network 100 is not received with the appropriate timing at the base station 304 . Also, the timing adjustment control frame is returned using a channel where the transmission timing is abnormal. [0142] When the wireless network control device 303 receives a timing adjustment control frame, it adjusts the transmission timing within the wireless network control device 303 by the amount of the timing to be adjusted that is stored in the frame relating to the received channel and subsequently performs data transmission with this timing. [0143] The details of timing adjustment are set out in 3GPP TS25.402. [0144] In a data communication system using DSCH, the signaling data is transmitted to the mobile immediately prior to transmission of the DSCH frame, but, as mentioned above, the transmission timing of the signaling data is based on the transmission timing of the dedicated channel (DCH, DPCH). [0145] Consequently, if any abnormality were to be generated in the transmission timing in the dedicated channel during transmission on the ordinary dedicated channel, in regard to this dedicated channel, in the event of an incoming transmission of this timing adjustment control frame it would not only be necessary to adjust the transmission timing of this dedicated channel, but it would also be necessary to adjust the timing off set of each mobile stored in the DSCH setting table 503 in the DSCH processing section 500 . [0146] Accordingly, as described above, when a timing adjustment control frame is generated on a dedicated channel, the method is specified of reporting the control information (in this case, the timing adjustment value) also to the DSCH processing section 500 . It should be noted that the following method can likewise be applied to other control frames associated with the dedicated channel. [0147] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C show three patterns, namely, case A, case B and case C as methods for reporting control information on reception of a timing adjustment control frame to the DSCH processing section 500 . These three patterns will be described below. [0148] [Case A] [0149] In Case A shown in FIG. 15A , the timing adjustment control frame that is transmitted on the DCH is terminated by the macro diversity control section 505 , and an adjustment value in respect of the DCH is extracted from the control frame. [0150] The macro diversity processing section 5 . 05 performs timing adjustment of the DCH in question within its own processing section, using the a foresaid adjustment value. The macro diversity processing section 505 reports this adjustment value and the mobile ID to the DSCH processing section 500 . The DSCH processing section 500 is thereby able to adjust the timing offset amount corresponding to the mobile in question in the DSCH setting table 503 , using the adjustment value and the mobile ID. [0151] [Case B] [0152] In case B shown in FIG. 15B , the circuit terminating section 506 copies all of the uplink data that is transmitted on the dedicated channel terminated by the macro diversity processing section 505 and transmits this also to the DSCH processing section 500 . [0153] The DSCH processing section 500 is arranged to monitor, all the time, the uplink data on the dedicated channels that are received by transmission from the circuit terminating section 506 so as to receive only control data such as timing adjustment frames and discard ordinary user data. In this way, the DSCH processing section 500 can also learn the timing adjustment amount on the dedicated channels. [0154] [Case C] [0155] In Case C shown in FIG. 15C , a number of control frame dedicated channels equal to the number of dedicated channels are set up between the wireless network control device 303 and the base stations 304 and control frames are transmitted to the wireless network control device 303 from the base stations 304 on the dedicated channels. In this process, respective copied control frames are transmitted on the dedicated channel in question and the control frame dedicated channel in question after copying the control frame within the base station 304 . [0156] Service employing multicast DSCH that is capable of being implemented by applying the present invention will now be described. [0157] As described above, in order for the mobile to receive data on DSCH, it is essential to receive signaling data on a dedicated channel (DPCH). [0158] This means that, in order to receive DSCH, the mobile must be in call-connected condition rather than in idle condition. Specifically, a characteristic feature of service using multicast DSCH is that a service can be provided that is distributed by multicasting to mobiles that are in connected condition. [0159] Also, although description thereof has been omitted from the above, one or several DSCH channels are normally set up for each area unit and changeover of the DSCH that is being received is performed when a mobile moves from a given area to another area. In other words, this may be said to constitute a further characteristic feature of multicast communication using DSCH in that different information can be distributed for different areas. [0160] Thus the characteristic features of a multicasting service using DSCH may be summarized as “an area-aware service available only to mobiles that are in a call-connected condition”. [0161] It should be noted that, since DSCH cannot be received by mobiles that are not in a call-connected condition, there is no wasted power consumption due to multicast distribution to mobiles that are in an idle condition. [0162] Various examples of such services are described below. [0163] [Practical Example 1: Area Information Distribution Service using Multicast DSCH] [0164] Information relating to this area is constantly distributed using multicast DSCH, for each area, from for example server means within the core network, and the mobile receives this area distribution information by performing call connection. [0165] [Practical Example 2: BGM Distribution Service using Multicast DSCH] [0166] For example music data is constantly transmitted from for example server means in the core network and this is multicast within the area using DSCH. When a mobile comes into service by performing call connection, this distributed music data is received on the DSCH and reproduced. In this way, it is possible to hear as BGM this music that is received in the background, while carrying on a conversation with another party. [0167] Furthermore, it, may be envisioned that a service may be provided displaying characteristic features for each geographical region by using different music data for each area. This is of course not restricted to music data and a similar service could be provided for all types of audible data. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY [0168] There has been an enormous increase in communication rates and communication quality in recent years due to advances in mobile communication technology. As a result, service modes have been diversified and services are being commenced that handle large quantities of data in the form not merely of voice telephone service but also of images or video. Currently however, most services are user request type services and high rate broadcast/multicast type services such as radio or television are considered merely as future possibilities. [0169] Viewed from this aspect, as mentioned above, the current third-generation mobile communication technology, in particular, W-CDMA communication networks as specified by 3GPP, are not considered to provide an optimum method for realizing high rate multicast services in an efficient manner at the present time. This must have the effect of impeding the development of communications services which might be expected to offer high diversity in the future. [0170] With the present invention, efficient multicast services can be implemented simply by revising somewhat the DSCH technology in 3GPP. Also, by exploitation of the highly characteristic technical feature that “a distributed service allocated in area units can only be received during call connection”, it is envisioned that various different types of services, which were hitherto difficult to implement, may be expected to become further developed, leading to expansion of the mobile communication market. [0171] Furthermore, it is envisioned that such diversification and expansion of services will make it possible to change over from a situation in which communication enterprises obtain profit by communication charges from users towards a situation in which communication network charges are obtained from multicast service providers, thereby making it possible to reduce communication charges that are currently borne by users, and as a result make it possible to further expand the market.
A mobile station for mobile communication includes a receiver operable to receive data from a base station. The receiver includes a first receiving unit operable to receive identifying information for multicast data from a base station and a second receiving unit operable to receive the data on a shared channel from the base station by the information received.
7
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a method and system for stable compliance control at a high speed by cooperation between a manipulator and a wrist body which is located at the end of the manipulator arm and is capable of high speed compliance control. In many instances the work involved using a manipulator is restricted by the external environment. Parts assembly, crank rotation and grinding work are examples of operations in which an external environment affects a manipulator. In order to perform these operations using a feedback type manipulator based on position control, a high-precision position determining capability and an accurate teaching technique are necessary. However, the high-precision determining capability greatly increases the cost and it is difficult to obtain sufficient precision using present techniques. The exact work orbit teaching also requires much time. On the other hand, it has been proposed that the manipulator be provided with the flexibility to adapt to the external environment restriction by controlling the interactive force according to the restrictive environment. The control of the flexible operation adapting to such environmental restriction is called "compliance control" and the operation realized thereby is called "compliance operation". In other words, the compliance control controls the manipulator hand as if there were a suspension mechanism comprising a spring (Ks), a damper (Kd), a mass (M) and a source of force (fr) upon the hand as shown in FIG. 2. As is disclosed in a paper entitled "Historical Perspective and State of the Art in Robotic Force Control", by D. E. Whitney, Proceedings of IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation, pp. 262-268, 1985 and the others, most of the conventionally reported compliance control methods are ones which feed back the force information from the external environment using a force sensor, or ones in which the whole arm is composed of an actuator capable of simple torque control such as a direct drive motor. Although the direct drive arm using a direct drive motor can easily control the compliance, the manipulator itself is apt to be large relative to the moving weight due to the problem of the power weight ratio of present direct drive motors. Furthermore, it becomes a problem from the viewpoint of control that the response frequency decreases remarkably with an increase of compliance due to the inertial effect of a large manipulator weight. The use of the manipulator which is provided with a decelerator and represented by an industrial manipulator brings about a larger power to weight ratio, making it possible to lighten the manipulator itself. However, since the influence of the deceleration friction becomes large, it becomes difficult to control the force of each joint with high accuracy. A method of obtaining compliance control by mounting the force sensor on the manipulator provided with a decelerator is disclosed in a paper entitled "Implementing Compliance Control with a High Speed Operator" by Hiroshi Ishikawa, et al., Japanese Precision Engineering Institute, Proceedings of the Spring Meeting, 1988, pp. 675-676. Its contents are also disclosed in the specification of Japanese Patent Application 63-59574. According to the disclosed method, the position and the velocity which the hand is to have at present are calculated from the force information obtained by the force sensor, and the position and velocity servo control is executed for each joint. Nevertheless, according to this method, the influence of the external environmental contacted by the end effector is included in the feedback loop, therefore, the system stability is affected by the external environment. Especially when the external environment is very hard, the apparent feedback gain becomes large and the control gain of the manipulator must to be reduced. However, the reduction of the control gain causes the decelerator friction to have a greater affect, thereby greatly reducing the force accuracy. Hence, the realizable area of the compliance is restricted by the decelerator friction and the hardness of the external environment. In the meantime, a method was disclosed in a paper entitled "A Six Degree-of-Freedom Magnetically Levitated Variable Compliance Fine Motion Wrist" presented by R. L. Hollis, et al. at 4th International Symposium on Robotics Research, Santa Cruz, Ca., Aug. 9-14, 1987, which discloses a wrist body capable of high-precision compliance control on the manipulator, and after the wrist body is moved by the manipulator to the position where the work is to be done and the manipulator is fixed in position, the compliance control is activated by the wrist body. Yet, there arises a problem that a large movable area cannot be obtained during the compliance control since the manipulator position is fixed during compliance control by the described method. For complex operation with the manipulator, such as assembly work, the capability of realizing arbitrary or adjustable compliance of the hand and changing the compliance freely is required. The present invention describes a method capable of stable compliance operation over a wide range of motion, which responds at a high speed to an extraordinarily hard object while contacting it very softly, in a manner impossible with conventional compliance control. According to the present invention it becomes possible to touch a very hard object to be worked, making it possible to perform assembly and fitting between hard parts made of metal and the like. Such assembly of hard parts is highly desired at factory sites. Conventionally, such work may be performed only by an expensive direct drive arm. Moreover, according to the present invention, it now becomes possible to perform a high speed compliance operation which is not possible with the direct drive arm. The high speed compliance operation has also been in great demand at factory sites. In order to realize a small inertia compliance operation which is not influenced by the external environment, the end of the manipulator is provided with a wrist body capable of compliance control. As described above, this structure has the problem that a large range of motion cannot be obtained during compliance control. The present invention enlarges the range of motion of the wrist body by moving the wrist body with the manipulator to a position where the wrist body can be effectively operated at all times. Wrist bodies driven by a voice coil motor or a periplanar coil motor are employed. By using these actuators, a relatively linear force-current characteristic may be obtained, therefore, compliance control becomes possible without force feedback. Namely, since the force from the external environment does not enter into the feedback loop, stable compliance control may be carried out without any influence from the external environment. Furthermore, high speed motion becomes possible because of the small inertia of the wrist body. In order to cope with the small range of actuator motion, and the manipulator moves the wrist body to a position where the wrist body actuator can operate effectively at all times. A description of the wrist body structure of six degree-of-freedom motion and the control algorithm, for a manipulator and wrist body having six degree-of-freedom, will be described hereinafter. A suitable example of the six degree-of-freedom wrist body is disclosed in the above paper by R. L. Hollis et al. and its contents are also described in the specification of Japanese Patent Application No. 63-131799. The following cites a part of the contents of the above patent application. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, the hand compliance can be freely controlled by the cooperation between the manipulator and the wrist body, and the following features can be obtained compared with the conventional method: (1) the hardness of the external environment (object which the hand touches) does not have any affect, (2) the hand hardness can be varied from an extremely soft state to an extremely hard state, (3) the hand can respond at a high frequency even if the hand is in the soft state, and (4) a wide range of motion of the hand for executing the foregoing compliance control can be obtained. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a control method according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing for illustrating hand compliance. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a typical wrist body. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a forcer element (actuator) forming a portion of the wrist body. FIG. 5 is an elevation sectional view illustrating the wrist body coordinates. FIG. 6 is an elevational view of a manipulator illustrating world coordinates and wrist body coordinates. FIG. 7 is an elevation sectional view illustrating hand displacement. FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the one-dimensional model of the present control method used for analysis. FIG. 9 is a block diagram in which the external environment (object which the hand touches) is extremely hard in a one-dimensional model of FIG. 8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The magnetically levitated wrist body of the preferred embodiment in FIG. 3 features a single moving part, a dynamically levitated movable "flotor" element 1. A hollow rigid shell-like moving flotor shell 2 contains planar or quasi-planar curved magnetic flotor coils 3. The flotor unit 1 is the levitated structure of the wrist; it bears the same relationship to the fixed structure (stator) as does the more commonly known rotor in a magnetic bearing, hereinafter called "flotor." Note that the relative position of flotor and stator as moving and fixed elements, respectively, may be exchanged, but for clarity the coil-bearing element will be designated the flotor in this text. The flotor 1 structure carries a tool chuck or gripper (not shown). The tool chuck or gripper, or equivalent, whether with or without a tool, may be called the "end effector," the "gripper", or simply the "hand". In this specification, the end of the hand with the gripper is referred to as a "hand," or the end of the wrist body itself without the gripper is also referred to as a "hand." FIG. 3 shows a flotor unit 1 which is in the shape of a prism of hexagonal cross-section. The flotor coils 3 are integral to "forcer" elements 5 (actuators), each flotor coil 3 interacting with its respective magnet assembly 4 within the associated forcer element 5 to produce motion of the flotor unit 1. In the preferred embodiment, a flexible ribbon cable provides electrical connections to the coils 3 without restricting the motion of the flotor unit 1. That is, adjacent forcer elements 5 are oriented at right angles to each other around the hexagonal flotor unit 1. The flotor coils 3 operate within large magnetic gaps in a fixed stator structure containing permanent magnets. Suitable means for controlling flotor coil 3 currents is provided to produce a fine motion device capable of moving with high translational and rotational accelerations over distances and angles limited by the size of the magnetic gaps. The forcer elements 5 are arranged in such a manner as to provide three orthogonal translational degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z) and three orthogonal rotational degrees of freedom (X rotation, Y rotation, Z rotation) developed by coil currents specified by a control unit not shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the six forcer elements 5 are not arranged identically, but rather are rotated 90° from their adjacent forcer elements. In the preferred embodiment, they are alternately horizontal and vertical. These may be parallel to flotor unit 1 top surface as shown in FIG. 3, or may be at +45°, -45°, or otherwise to accomplish the same purpose. The hollow moving shell flotor unit 1 is suspended by actively controlled magnetic levitation in such a manner that the compliance (stiffness) can be varied over a wide range of magnitudes and directions under program control. The flotor unit 1 has a periplanar coil (planar to match the rectangular face of flotor unit 1 with hexagonal periphery, or curved to match a different flotor unit 1 configuration with curved periphery.) For six degrees of freedom, a number (at least six) of flat-wound periplanar (flat or curved) flotor coils 3, operating in magnetic fields produced by permanent magnet assemblies are required to produce actuation forces and torques in three dimensions. The periplanar coils 3 are rigidly incorporated in the lightweight hollow shell flotor unit 1 which comprises the moving part of the wrist. Alternatively, for some applications, the magnets 4 and associated structures can be made to move, with the flotor unit 1 coil structure fixed, an arrangement which has some advantages for cooling. The basic electromechanical unit which provides a source of force or (in pairs) torque to the wrist is a periplanar (flat and curved) coil electrodynamic drive unit, or forcer element. The preferred embodiment provides six forcer elements and a ring-like shell flotor unit 1. This closed configuration makes it convenient for mounting the wrist on a robot arm and, in turn, for mounting tooling or other end effectors to the wrist. FIG. 3 shows six forcer elements 5, alternately arranged vertically and horizontally about a ring with a hexagonal cross-section. The inner ring of magnets and return plates are rigidly connected with a ring-shaped mechanical support (not shown) and similarly for the outer ring of magnets and return plates. These inner and outer rings form the fixed stator structure having a closed dual periphery. The circumference surface is attached to the manipulator. A hexagonal top plate not shown serves as an end effector mounting platform. In FIG. 3, the wrist is shown at its zero position, floating in the magnetic gaps. In this configuration the flotor XYZ and stator X'Y'Z' frames are coincident. For a wrist approximately 200 mm in diameter, translations and rotations on the order of ±4 mm and ±5° are easily achieved. FIG. 4 shows a typical forcer element 5. Four permanent magnets 4 with two permeable return plates 7 provide high fields (arrows 9) in the large gap 8. Current in the periplanar coil 3 produces a force mutually orthogonal to the field and current directions. A pair of permeable return plates 7 serve to return the flux. Typical gap flux densities B for the preferred embodiment are about 7 kG. Current i in flotor coil 3 interacts with the field to produce a force F=BiL, where L is the effective length of wire in the magnetic gap 8. Flat coils such as those used in the forcer elements similar to those described here are commonly used as actuators in disk files. In disk files, an attempt is made to minimize the gap length to maximize the effective field and reduce stray fields. In this embodiment, the gap 8 is necessarily much larger than the thickness of flotor coil 3 to allow motion in all six degrees of freedom. Passive damping is provided in the preferred embodiment forcer element 5 design by adding a sheet 10 of conducting material, e.g. copper, as facings for the coils 3. As the conducting sheets move in the magnetic gap, eddy currents are generated which are proportional to the velocity, and which generate damping (cushioning) forces which oppose the motion and are proportional to velocity. The passive damping tends to reduce the magnitude of structural vibration modes and simplifies the control algorithm. FIG. 5 is an elevation vertical section view of the wrist, showing flotor unit 1 holding periplanar coils 3 in juxtaposition with forcer magnets 4. Flotor unit 1 is levitated; that is, it is suspended in space by virtue of magnetic forces. The flotor unit 1 carries end effector 11. The base of the wrist body is coupled to an end of coarse manipulator 6. The wrist coordinates w x, w y and w z which will be described below are the fixed coordinates at the top end of the manipulator as shown in FIG. 5. As is clear from the foregoing explanation, the wrist body has six degree-of-freedom of translation and rotation for the respective axis of w x, w y and w z. The manipulator 12 in FIG. 6 also has six degree-of-freedom of translation and rotation motion for the respective axis of the world coordinates o x, o y and o z as shown in FIG. 6 and is provided with the wrist body 1 at the end of the manipulator. The respective steps of the compliance control method according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. 1. In step S1 the control force and control torque are calculated in the following manner. If the hand has a compliance based upon the second order system as shown in FIG. 2, the equation of motion is expressed by Equation (1), .sup.o M(.sup.o P.sub.r -.sup.o P)+.sup.o K.sub.d (.sup.o P.sub.r -.sup.o P)+.sup.o K.sub.s (.sup.o P.sub.r -.sup.o P)+.sup.o f.sub.r -.sup.o f=0 (1) where, o P r : reference value (6 vectors) of the hand position in world coordinates o P: hand position (6 vectors) in world coordinates o f r : reference value (6 vectors) of the force given to the hand in world coordinates o f: force (6 vectors) given to the hand in world coordinates o M: imaginary mass·inertia (6×6 matrix) in world coordinates o K d : imaginary attenuation coefficients (6×6 matrix) in world coordinates o K s : imaginary spring coefficient (6×6 matrix) in world coordinates o M, o K d and o K r are arbitrarily specified. Therefore, the force to be produced by the wrist body is expressed in the wrist coordinates: .sup.w f.sub.d =.sup.w M(.sup.w P.sub.r -.sup.w P)+.sup.w K.sub.d (.sup.w P.sub.r -.sup.w P)+.sup.w K.sub.s (.sup.w P.sub.r -.sup.w P)+.sup.w f.sub.r (2) where, w P r : reference values (6 vectors) of the hand position in wrist coordinates w P: hand positions (6 vectors) in wrist coordinates w f r : reference values (6 vectors) of the force given to the hand in wrist coordinates w f d : desired force (6 vectors) given to the hand in wrist coordinates w M: imaginary mass·inertia (6×6 matrix) in wrist coordinates w K d : imaginary attenuation coefficient (6×6 matrix) in wrist coordinates w K s : imaginary spring coefficient (6×6 matrix) in wrist coordinates w P is fed back in the manner described below. w P and w P are determined by differentiating w P with respect to time. The determination up to w P attains the high-accuracy control. However, it is to be noted that the acceleration term is not necessarily required. It is assumed in Equation (2) that the acceleration term is neglected, that is w M is set to zero. Each actuator (forcer element) of the wrist body may be moved in one dimension. Then, the actuator position can be expressed by one-dimensional coordinates. The six dimensional coordinates expressing these six actuator positions are called "actuator coordinates." The output of step S1 is the input to step S2 where the coordinate conversion into the actuator coordinate occurs as follows. The desired force τ d to be produced by each actuator can be expressed as follows, using Jacobian matrix J f which converts the wrist coordinates with respect to the wrist body into the actuator coordinates: τ.sub.d =J.sub.f.sup.T ·.sup.W f.sub.d (3) where, τ d : desired force to be produced by each actuator of the wrist body J f : Jacobian matrix of the wrist body (The superscript T represents a transposition). If it is assumed that the force-current characteristic of each actuator of the wrist body is linear, the current should be controlled so as to set the force of each actuator at τ d . The hand is displaced according to the force τ d produced by each actuator of the wrist body and the force (external force) applied to the hand from an external source. The difference of the two forces, τ d and the external force, torque, is provided as the input for step S3. One example, is the case where the hand touches an extremely hard object. In this case, although the wrist body, that is, the hand produces a force by the above current, the hand displacement becomes almost zero. It is to be noted that since the hand position has a constant position relationship with the movable wrist body the actuator displacement is obtained as the quantity corresponding to the hand displacement in step S3. Considering the manipulator, with reference to step S4, the hand displacement w P f in wrist coordinates is expressed as follows, using the displacement q of each actuator of the wrist body in actuator coordinates and Kinematics Kin(q) of the wrist body: .sup.w P.sub.f =Kin(q) (4) where, w P f : hand displacement (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates Kin(q): displacement conversion function from actuator coordinates into wrist coordinates q: displacement (six vectors) of the actuator of the wrist body .sup.w P.sub.f =.sup.w P-.sup.w P.sub.o (5) This relationship is shown in FIG. 7, where w P o : hand position (neutral position) before w f d and the external force are given w P: present hand position (state where w f d and the external force are given) w P f : hand displacement by w f d and the external force Now, the explanation will be made by setting the standard point w P w of the wrist position in wrist coordinates at the same position as w P o . .sup.w P.sub.w =.sup.w P.sub.o (6) where, w P w : wrist body standard position (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates In this case, w P, w P are as follows: .sup.w P=.sup.w v=.sup.w v.sub.f +.sup.w ω.sub.f ×.sup.w P.sub.f +.sup.w v.sub.w (7) .sup.w P=.sup.w v=.sup.w v.sub.f +2.sup.w ω.sub.f ×.sup.w v.sub.f +.sup.w ω×(.sup.w ω.sub.f ×.sup.w P.sub.f)+.sup.w ω×.sup.w P.sub.f +.sup.w v.sub.w (8) .sup.w ω=.sup.w ω.sub.w +.sup.w ω.sub.f, .sup.w ω=.sup.w ω.sub.w +.sup.w ω.sub.f where, w v: hand velocity (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates w v: hand acceleration (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates w v f : velocity (six vectors) produced by the wrist body in wrist body coordinates w v.sub.ω : wrist body velocity (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates w ω: hand angular velocity (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates w ω: hand angular acceleration (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates w ω f : angular velocity (six vectors) produced by the wrist body in wrist body coordinates w ω w : wrist body angular velocity (six vectors) in wrist body coordinates The value w P f cannot exceed the wrist body range of motion (usually not so large). Therefore, the manipulator may move the wrist position o P over the wrist body range of motion by controlling the wrist position w P w so that w P f may not exceed the wrist body movable area. For this, in step S5, the position control should be carried out by giving the objective value of the wrist position as shown in the following Equation. .sup.w P.sub.wr =Filter (.sup.w P.sub.f) (10) where, w P wr : objective values (six vectors) of the wrist position in wrist body coordinates Manipulator moving function, that is, Filter will be detailed later. The position control is carried out so in step 6 so as to make the present position w P o of the manipulator coincident with the reference value w P wr given in step S5. w P is obtained by adding the resultant present position w P o by the position control from step 6 and the w P f determined in step S4. w P is used as the input for the calculation in step S1 described above. The foregoing steps are repeatedly performed at a high frequency. This filter Filter ( w P f ) should be selected so as to move the hand position o P as widely as possible and operate the manipulator stably. The stability of the one-dimensional model will now be considered. The foregoing control rules are shown by a block diagram in one dimension in FIG. 8. The meaning of the symbols in FIG. 8 are as follows: K s : imaginary spring coefficient of the desirable compliance K d : imaginary attenuation coefficient of the desirable compliance M: imaginary inertia of the desirable compliance J f : wrist body inertia D f : attenuation coefficient of the wrist body K mp : position control gain of the manipulator J m : manipulator inertia D m : manipulator attenuation coefficient H e (s): transfer function of the external environment (object which the hand touches) Gf(s): filter transfer function S: parameter. Generally, the control system becomes unstable with the increase of the feedback quantity. In the system of FIG. 8, the feedback quantity increases with the gain of the external environment transfer function H e (s). As a result, the system stability is the worst when the hand touches a very hard object. This corresponds to the case where the gain of the external environment transfer function H e (s) is extremely large. When |H e (s)| is infinite, the block diagram of the system is shown by FIG. 9. In FIG. 9, by setting D m =2(J m ·K mp ) 1/2 and T=(J m /K mp ) 1/2 , one recurrence transfer function G(s) is expressed by Equation (11). ##EQU1## In order to increase the range of motion of the hand position o P, |G(s)| should be larger. On the other hand, for system stability, it is required that <G(s) =-180° and |G(s)|≦1. Therefore, the filter transfer function Gf(s) may be expressed by the following equations, taking the phase margin into account: Gf(s)=K.sub.p +K.sub.i /s (12) Gf(s)=K.sub.p /(1+K.sub.i S) (13) K p : proportion gain K i : integration gain s: Laplace operator Although the filter transfer function described by equation (12) attains a larger range of motion at a high frequency than that of the filter transfer function described by equation 13, the latter function described by equation 13 has superior characteristics in other respects. These transfer functions should be appropriately determined according to the application. Example of the transfer function: when T=7.9×10 -3 [sec/rad] Gf(s)=3.66+231/s
Stable compliance control at a high speed is achieved by cooperation between a manipulator and a wrist body which is located at the end of the manipulator arm.
1
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/227,415, filed Sep. 7, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,605,216, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/041,305, filed Mar. 4, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,035,742, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/731,082, filed Mar. 24, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,936,399, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/428,344, filed Apr. 22, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,714,933, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/060,779, filed Apr. 1, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,542,096, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/944,389, filed on Sep. 17, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,430,016, which claims the benefit of and priority to the Korean Application No. 10-2003-064442 filed on Sep. 17, 2003, the contents of all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a digital cable broadcast receiver, and more particularly, to a digital cable broadcast receiver and a method for processing a caption thereof that can process a caption of a various types and standards for use in a digital cable broadcast, in an adaptive manner. 2. Discussion of the Related Art A ground wave broadcast standard for an analog broadcast in USA (United States of America) is an NTSC (national television system committee) standard. The NTSC standard is characterized in transmitting a closed caption such as English, Spanish, using a 21 st line of a VBI (vertical blanking interval) of a broadcast signal. A standard related to the transmission of the closed caption is an EIA (electronic industry association) standard 608. Services provided through a 21 st line of the VBI under the EIA 608 standard are as follows: CC1 (primary synchronous caption service), CC2 (special asynchronous caption service), CC3 (secondary synchronous caption service), CC4 (special asynchronous caption service), Text1 (first letter information service), Text2 (second letter information service), Text3 (third letter information service), Text4 (fourth letter information service). In USA, a user has to select, in person, one among the above-mentioned services. Further, since there is no information as to which service is provided among the above-mentioned eight services while a broadcast program is displayed, there has been a difficulty that a user should check, case by case, the services so as to check a service under execution. A ground wave broadcast standard for a digital broadcast in USA is an ATSC (advanced television system committee) standard. Further, an EIA 708, which is a standard on a digital TV closed caption (DTVCC), is established. The DTVCC will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 illustrates the general bit stream provided to a digital TV. As shown in FIG. 1 , the bit stream includes: audio data, video data, control data (i.e., supplementary information). Data that corresponds to the DTVCC is included in user_data bits of the video data and transmitted under an MPEG-2 (Moving Picture Experts Group-2) video standard and the ATSC standard (A53). At this point, according to the above standards, the DTVCC data can be transmitted up to as much as 128 bytes at its maximum for each user_data region and the total transmission amount cannot exceed 9600 bps (bit per second). Compared with an analog closed caption based on the EIA 608, where the total transmission amount cannot exceed 960 bps, the DTVCC based on the EIA 708 has realized ten times greater bandwidth in its data transmission. The DTVCC based on the EIA 708 can provide sixty-three caption services in total with consideration of the extended bandwidth. In case of the sixty-three digital caption services, there is a difficulty that a user should change settings to find out a desired caption service as was done in the above-described analog closed caption. Due to such reason, in case of providing a DTVCC according to the ATSC standard, a broadcast station must include information called a caption_service_descriptor within an EIT (event information table) or a PMT (program map table) in a PSIP (program and system information protocol). The EIT and the caption_service_descriptor allow a DTV receiver to know what kind of the DTVCC is included in a relevant program. The cable broadcast is a little different from the ground wave broadcast depending on regions, or service companies, or broadcast equipments. In particular, the cable broadcast is the same as the ground wave analog broadcast in that transmission is performed on the basis of a letter value and a command set prescribed by the EIA 608 in operating a closed caption. However, the cable broadcast is different from the ground wave broadcast in transmitting the closed caption using other interval of the VBI except a 21 st line of the VBI. That is, some broadcast station transmits a caption using a sixth line of the VBI while other broadcast station transmits a caption using a tenth line. In the meantime, as an analog cable broadcast is switched into a digital cable broadcast, a closed caption standard regarding the digital broadcast has been established independently. The basic object of standards tilted SCTE (society of cable television engineers) 20 and DVS (digital video surveillance) 157 is to convert an analog closed caption for use in the analog cable broadcast into user_data within a video data region for use in a digital TV. Those standards do not include content regarding a DTVCC of the EIA 708 standard but only prescribe content regarding the analog closed caption as is done in the existing standards. The ATSC standard regarding the DTVCC does not consider the closed caption under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 which are caption transmission standards for use in the cable broadcast. Since a cable broadcast service company has provided a cable set top box appropriate for the company's broadcast to each user, there was little problem in a digital-cable-broadcast generation before an open-cable generation. However, under a new digital broadcast environment such as an open cable and a Cable Ready, there occur problems regarding the standards. That is, under the open cable and the Cable Ready environments whose object is to connect an apparatus generally available in the market, not a specific cable broadcast receiver provided by a specific cable broadcast company, to a cable, a method for transmitting/receiving a caption emerges as a very complicated problem. An open cable broadcast signal under regulations of a FCC (federal communications commission) must include a DTVCC and an analog CC (closed caption) prescribed by the EIA 708. Further, the open cable broadcast signal should include user_data of other type prescribed by the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 and may include a relevant caption at a S-Video, a Composite, a 480i, and a VBI line of the Component output. Therefore, the cable broadcast receiver should know what kind of caption data is included in a digital cable broadcast being received. However, it is difficult for the cable broadcast receiver to judge a kind of caption data being received in view of characteristics of caption data. Accordingly, a user should check in person the caption data through a key or a menu on a remote control. Also, a user should experimentally select and check what kind of caption data is decoded. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a digital cable broadcast receiver and a method for processing a caption thereof that substantially obviate one or more problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art. An object of the present invention is to provide a digital cable broadcast receiver and a method for processing a caption thereof that can automatically process caption data of various standards and types. Additional advantages, objects, and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and in part will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned from practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings. To achieve these objects and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, there is provided a digital cable broadcast receiver including: a demultiplexer for dividing a received broadcast stream into video data, audio data, supplementary information; a controller for judging whether caption data included in the video data is digital caption data or analog caption data on the basis of caption information included in the supplementary information, and outputting a control signal according to a result of the judgment; a digital caption decoder for extracting and decoding digital caption data from the video data according to the control signal; and an analog caption decoder for extracting and decoding analog caption data from the video data according to the control signal. The controller judges a number of caption services, a national language, a difficulty level of a caption, a line number and a field of a VBI that corresponds to the caption data, a picture ratio, provided by the caption data included in the video data, on the basis of the caption information. If the caption data included in the video data is digital caption data, the controller detects a caption service number that corresponds to the caption data from the caption information and transmits the control signal including the detected caption service number to the digital caption decoder. If the caption data included in the video data is analog caption data, the controller judges the caption data's standard on the basis of the caption information. If the caption data is an analog caption data of an EIA 708, the controller detects field information that corresponds to the caption data from the caption information, and transmits the control signal including the detected field information to the analog caption decoder, and if the caption data is an analog caption data of the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 standards, the controller detects field information and VBI line information that correspond to the caption data and transmits the control signal including the detected field information and the VBI line information, to the analog caption decoder. In another aspect of the present invention, a digital broadcast receiver further includes: a program map table (PMT) buffer for storing a PMT included in the supplementary information and transmitting the stored PMT to the controller; an event information table (EIT) buffer for storing an EIT included in the supplementary information and transmitting the stored EIT to the controller; and a graphic block for receiving characteristic information of the caption data detected from the supplementary information, from the controller and displaying characteristics of the caption data on a screen. In still another aspect of the present invention, a method for processing caption includes the steps of: dividing a received broadcast stream into video data, audio data, and supplementary information; judging whether caption data included in the video data is digital caption data or analog caption data on the basis of caption information included in the supplementary information; and selectively detecting at least one of parameters included in the caption information according to a result of the judgment; and extracting and decoding the caption data included in the video data on the basis of the detected parameter. The step of selectively detecting at least one of parameters included in the caption information according to the result of the judgment, includes the step of: if the caption data included in the video data is digital caption data, detecting a caption service number that corresponds to the caption data from the caption information. The step of selectively detecting at least one of parameters included in the caption information according to the result of the judgment, includes the step of: if the caption data included in the video data is analog caption data, detecting a standard of the caption data on the basis of the caption information; and detecting at least one of parameters included in the caption information according to the detected standard. At this point, if the detected standard of the caption data is the EIA 708, a field value that corresponds to the caption data is detected from the caption information and if the detected standard of the caption data is the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157, a field value and a VBI line number that correspond to the caption data are detected from the caption information. The method for processing caption further includes the steps of: detecting characteristics of the caption data included in the video data on the basis of the caption information; and displaying the detected characteristics on a screen. The characteristics of the caption data includes at least one among a number of caption services, a national language of a caption, a difficulty level of a caption, a picture ratio of a caption, a field value and a VBI line number that correspond to the caption data, provided by the caption data. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the present invention are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiment(s) of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principle of the invention. In the drawings: FIG. 1 is a view illustrating a bit stream of the general digital broadcast; FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a syntax of caption information according to the present invention; FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a construction of a broadcast receiver according to the present invention; and FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method for processing a caption according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. A digital cable broadcast under an open cable and a Cable Ready standards observes an ATSC standard. Therefore, the caption_service_descriptor the EIT or the PMT within the PSIP, included in the digital cable broadcast signal is prescribed by the ATSC standard (A65, Program and System Information Protocol for Terrestrial Broadcast and Cable). FIG. 2 is a view showing a syntax of the caption_service_descriptor under the open cable and the Cable Ready standards according to the present invention. “descriptor_tag”, which is a parameter for checking a type of a descriptor, is described by 8 bits. “descriptor_length”, which is a parameter representing a length of the whole structure, is described by 8 bits. “number_of_services” represents a number of provided caption services and is described by 5 bits. “language” represents language information of a relevant caption, such as English for a service 1 and Spanish for a service 2, and is a 3-byte language code under ISO 639.2/B, each letter of which is coded with 8 bits and inserted into a 24-bit field. “cc_type” represents a kind of caption. If cc_type==1, it is a digital caption (advanced caption) and if cc_type==0, it is an analog caption (analog caption under the EIA 708 or the SCTE 20 (DVS 157)). The “cc_type” is described by 1 bit. “analog_cc_type” represents a kind of an analog caption. If analog_cc_type==1, it means caption data transmitted through a line 21 of the VBI under the EIA 708, and if analog_cc_type==0, it means caption data transmitted through other line except the line 21 of the VBI according to the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157. “line_offset” represents a number of the VBI line including the caption data in case caption data under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 is transmitted, namely, in case the analog_cc_type==0, and is described by 5 bits. “line_field” represents whether the caption data is included in an even field or an odd field. That is, if line_field==0, it means the caption data is included in an odd field and if line_field==1, it means the caption data is included in an even field. “caption_service_number” represents 1-63 caption service numbers in case it is a digital caption, namely, in case cc_type==1. and is described by 6 bits. “easy_reader” is a flag representing whether it is a caption easily read by a user or not. “wide_aspect_ratio” is related to a screen ratio, and more particularly, is a flag representing whether a received caption data is intended for a 16:9 screen or not. If cc_type==0, a received caption is an analog caption. As described above, for the analog caption, there exist an analog caption under the EIA 708 standard, and an analog caption under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 standard. However, since the analog caption under the EIA 608 standard is a pure analog caption, not a closed caption for a digital TV mentioned in the present invention, the analog caption under the EIA 608 standard is excluded. Therefore, an analog caption for the case cc_type==0, is either an analog caption under the EIA 708 standard or an analog caption under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 standard. “analog_cc_type” represents whether a received caption is an analog caption under the EIA 708 standard or an analog caption under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 standard. If analog_cc_type==0, it means that the relevant caption is included in a video data region in form of user data under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157, which are standards on the digital cable broadcast. In that case, since to which line of the VBI the received caption is assigned, is not known in view of characteristics of the cable broadcast, the line_offset describes to which line of the VBI the received caption is included. If analog_cc_type==1, it means that an analog caption under the EIA 708 standard is included in a video data region in form of user data. In that case, since the caption is assigned to a 21 st line of the VBI, a line_offset value is not required. Therefore, 5 bits assigned to the line_offset becomes a reserved bit and 1 bit is assigned to the line_field representing whether a caption is a caption included in an even field or a caption included in an odd field. If line_field==0, it means a caption is included in an odd field and if line_field==1, it means a caption is included in an even field. As described above, whether a caption included in the digital cable broadcast is an analog caption or a digital caption is judged on the basis of information included in the caption_service_descriptor. Further, if the received caption is an analog caption, whether the caption is an analog caption under the EIA 708 standard or a caption for a cable broadcast under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 standard, is judged. If the received caption is a caption under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 standard, in which line of the VBI the caption data is included, is judged. If the received caption is a digital caption, information as to which service the caption includes among sixty-three services, is checked. A broadcast station generates caption information including the above described various information and adds the caption information to a broadcast signal. A broadcast receiver detects caption information included in a broadcast signal provided from the broadcast station, and judges various characteristics of the received caption data on the basis of parameter values included in the detected caption information. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a construction of a digital broadcast receiver according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 3 , a MPEG demultiplexer 501 receives a MPEG-2 transport stream from a cable and decodes the transport stream so as to extract video data, audio data, and supplementary information. Further, the MPEG demultiplexer 501 detects an EIT and a PMT included in the supplementary information. The detected PMT is stored in a PMT buffer 502 and the detected EIT is stored in an EIT buffer 503 . Here, the detected PMT or EIT includes caption information, namely, a caption_service_descriptor. A controller 504 receives caption information from the PMT buffer 502 or the EIT buffer 503 and detects caption data included in the transport stream on the basis of the caption information. A video parser 505 receives video data decoded by the demultiplexer 501 and separates the video data into user_data and MPEG-2 video data. An analog caption decoder 506 receives user_data from the video parser 505 and detects analog caption data from the user_data on the basis of a signal outputted from the controller 504 . A digital caption decoder 507 receives the user_data from the video parser 505 and detects digital caption data from the user_data on the basis of a signal outputted from the controller 504 . A MPEG-2 video decoder 508 decodes MPEG-2 video data generated by the video parser 505 . A graphic block 510 outputs a signal for generating a GUI (graphic user interface) such as an OSD (on screen display) menu including information provided from the controller 504 . The graphic block 510 displays, on a screen, various characteristics of the received caption data, for example, a number of caption services, a national language of a caption, a type and a standard of the received caption data, VBI line information and field information that correspond to the caption data, a difficulty level of the caption, a picture ratio of the caption. A video combiner 509 receives analog caption data from the analog caption decoder 506 or receives digital caption data from the digital caption decoder 507 . Further, the video combiner 509 receives video data from the MPEG-2 video decoder 508 and receives a signal outputted from the graphic block 510 . The video combiner 509 combines the received signals so as to generate data that will be possibly displayed. A video reconstructor 511 encodes an analog caption data decoded by the analog caption decoder 506 , at a 21 st line of the VBI. Operation of the digital broadcast receiver as described above according to the present invention will now be described. FIG. 4 illustrates a method for processing a caption according to the present invention. If a MPEG-2 transport stream transmitted through a cable is received, the MPEG demultiplexer 501 divides the received transport stream into video data, and audio data, supplementary information. The supplementary information includes a PSIP defining electronic program guide (EPG) and system information (SI). The PSIP includes a plurality of tables including information for transmitting/receiving A/V (audio/video) data made in a MPEG-2 video and AC-3 (audio coding-3) audio formats, and information regarding channels of each broadcast station and information regarding each program of channel. Among them, information regarding the PMT and information regarding the EIT are stored in the PMT buffer 502 and the EIT buffer 503 , respectively. Under the ATSC standard, the digital cable broadcast signal must include a caption_service_descriptor in its PMT or EIT. The controller 504 reads a caption-related option stored in a memory (not shown) and determines a caption-related option selected by a user (S 11 ). For example, the caption-related option includes various options such as “caption off”, “caption service selection (cc1, cc2, cc3, . . . )”, “English caption display”, “Korean caption display”, “size of caption”, “color of caption”. If a user selects “caption off”, the controller 504 does not display the received caption. If a user selects “English caption display”, the controller 504 controls the caption decoders 506 and 507 so that only the caption written in English may be displayed on a screen. Further, the controller 504 controls the caption decoders 506 and 507 so that the received caption data may be processed according to a set size and a set color of a caption. The controller 504 receives the caption information and judges characteristics of the received caption data on the basis of parameter values included in the caption information (S 12 ). The controller 504 judges a number of caption services on the basis of the caption information. For example, the controller 504 judges whether a synchronous caption, an asynchronous caption service, a letter information service are provided. The controller 504 judges a language of the received caption on the basis of the caption information. For example, the controller 504 judges whether the received caption is English, Japanese, or Korean. The controller 504 judges a type of the received caption data on the basis of the caption information. For example, the controller 504 judges whether the received caption data is digital caption data or analog caption data (S 13 ). The controller 504 determines a standard of the received caption data on the basis of the caption information. For example, if the received caption data is analog caption data, the controller 504 judges whether the received caption data is caption data under the EIA 708 standard or the SCIE 20 or the DVS 157 standard. Further, the controller 504 judges a VBI line number and a field including the received caption, a difficulty level of the received caption, and a picture ratio of the received caption on the basis of the caption information. To judge whether the received caption data is digital caption data in the step of S 13 , the controller 504 judges whether the digital caption data is included in the video data on the basis of the caption information. If digital caption data under the EIA 708 is included in the video data (if cc_type==1), the controller 504 detects a service ID that corresponds to the caption data from the caption information (S 14 ) and transmits the detected service ID to the digital caption decoder 507 . The service ID can be known from a capto_service_number included in the caption information. The digital caption decoder 507 extracts and decodes caption data that corresponds to the service ID from user_data of a picture header transmitted from the video parser 505 (S 15 ). Subsequently, the extracted caption data is transmitted to the video combiner 509 . The video combiner 509 combines the extracted caption data, video data outputted from the MPEG-2 video decoder 508 , and signals outputted from the graphic block 510 . If analog caption data is included in the video data (if cc_type==0), the controller 504 judges whether the received caption data is analog caption data (analog_cc_type==1) under the EIA 708 standard or analog caption data (analog_cc_type==0) under the SCTE 20 or DVS 157 standard (S 16 ). At this point, the controller 504 determines a standard of the received analog caption data on the basis of the caption information. If the received caption data is analog caption data under the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157, the controller 504 checks VBI line information described in 5 bits by a line_offset included in the caption information. The VBI line information represents a position of the caption data. Further, the controller 504 judges a field where the caption data exists on the basis of line_field information included in the caption information. If line_field==0, the caption data exists in an odd field and if line_field==1, the caption data exists in an even field. After that, the controller 504 transmits the above checked VBI line information and the line field information to the analog caption decoder 506 . If the received caption data is analog caption data, user_data outputted from the video parser 505 is not processed by the digital caption decoder 507 . The analog caption decoder 506 finds out (S 18 ) analog caption data made in the SCTE 20 or the DVS 157 standard from user_data inputted from the video parser 505 on the basis of the VBI line information and the line field information, and decodes the analog caption data (S 19 ). The analog caption data found by the analog caption decoder 506 is transmitted to the video combiner 509 . The video combiner 509 combines the analog caption data, video data outputted from the MPEG-2 video decoder 508 , and signals outputted from the graphic block 510 . Signals outputted from the video combiner 509 are transmitted to the video reconstructor 511 . The video reconstructor 511 reconstructs a caption by encoding analog caption data outputted from the analog caption decoder 506 , at a VBI 21 st line. The reconstruction of a caption is to prevent analog caption data from being an open caption in case of storing data, as it is, outputted from the video combiner 509 in a storage medium such as a VCR (video cassette recorder). If the received caption data is analog caption data under the EIA 708 standard (if analog_cc_type==1), the controller 504 transmits line_field information included in the caption information to the analog caption decoder 506 . Since analog caption data under the EIA 708 standard is positioned at a VBI 21 st line, a line_offset value is not required. At this point, the digital caption decoder 507 extracts a 2-byte analog data in user_data including digital caption data from the video parser 505 and transmits the analog data to the analog caption decoder 506 . Subsequently, the analog caption decoder 506 finds out (S 17 ) analog caption data present in a VBI 21 st line from the 2-byte analog data on the basis of the line_field information and decodes the analog caption data (S 19 ). The found analog caption data is combined with video data from the MPEG-2 video decoder 508 and signals from the graphic block 510 by the video combiner 509 . The video reconstructor 511 reconstructs a caption by encoding analog caption data from the analog caption decoder 506 at a VBI 21 st line. If analog caption data under the EIA 708 and analog caption data under the SCTE 20 and the DVS 157 are all present in the user_data, the analog caption data under the EIA 708 is processed. Further, if digital caption data under the EIA 708 and analog caption data under the EIA 708 are all present in the user_data, the digital caption data is processed. As described above, the present invention judges a type of caption data on the basis of caption information included in the received broadcast signal and automatically processes the caption data according to the type, thereby providing convenience to a user. Further, the present invention judges various characteristics of the received caption data such as a standard of caption data, a number of caption services being received and provides the characteristics to a user. Furthermore, the present invention can store caption-related options selected by a user and display the caption being received according to the caption-related options. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
A digital cable broadcast receiver and a method for automatically processing caption data of various standards and types, is disclosed. The digital broadcast receiver includes: a demultiplexer for dividing a received broadcast stream into video data, audio data, supplementary information; a controller for determining whether caption data included in the video data is digital caption data or analog caption data on the basis of caption information included in the supplementary information, and outputting a control signal according to a result of the determining; a digital caption decoder for extracting and decoding digital caption data from the video data according to the control signal; and an analog caption decoder for extracting and decoding analog caption data from the video data according to the control signal.
7
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a novel organic transition metal compound and a process for the preparation of a polyolefin in the presence of the organic transition metal compound as a main catalyst. More particularly, the present invention relates to an organic transition metal compound containing two transition metal atoms per molecule and having a linkage site where a part of ligands of the atoms are directly conjugated via a π bond to form a bidentate structure and a process for the preparation of a polyolefin in the presence of the organic transition metal compound as a main catalyst. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION It has been known that a "Kaminski catalyst" comprising a transition metal compound of the group 4 of the periodic table having a cyclopentadienyl derivative as a ligand (metallocene) and an aluminoxane has a high activity for the polymerization of an olefin and thus is very useful in the preparation of a polyolefin. As catalytic components for the polymerization of an olefin there have been synthesized various metallocene derivatives. JP-A-58-19309 (The term "JP-A" as used herein means an "unexamined published Japanese patent application") (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 4,542,199) discloses a process for the preparation of a polyolefin in the presence of a catalyst system comprising as a catalyst component an organic transition metal compound having two cyclopentadienyl groups such as bis(cyclopentadienyl) zirconium dichloride. JP-A-61-130314 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 4,769,510) discloses a process for the preparation of an isotactic polypropylene having a high stereoregularity in the presence of, e.g., ethylenebis(4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1- indenyl)zirconium dichloride. JP-A-2-41303 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,892,851 and 5,334,677) discloses that the use of, for example, isopropylidene (cyclopentadienyl)(fluorenyl)zirconium dichloride as a catalyst component makes it possible to prepare a syndiotactic polyolefin. JP-A-4-91095 discloses a process for the preparation of a polyolefin in the presence of, as a catalyst component, an organic transition metal compound having two transition metal atoms per molecule obtained by crosslinking two transition metal components with a hydrocarbon group such as cyclohexanediyl, e.g., transition metal compound represented by the following formula: ##STR2## wherein A 1 , A 2 , A 3 and A 4 each represents a cyclopentadienyl group, a substituted cyclopentadienyl group, an indenyl group, a fluorenyl group, a substituted fluorenyl group or a derivative thereof; A 5 represents a C 4-30 hydrocarbondiylidene group, with the proviso that A 1 and A 2 , and A 3 and A 4 are connected to the same carbon atoms in A 5 , respectively, to form a crosslinked structure; R 1 and R 2 , which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a halogen atom, a C 1-10 alkyl group or an aryl group; and M 1 and M 2 , which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a metal atom selected from the group consisting of titanium, zirconium and hafnium. However, the transition metal compound is disadvantageous in that since it has a carbon chain linkage such as A 5 , the complex has a reduced rigidity resulting in the instability thereof. As a result of the inventors' studies, it was found that the polymerization activity provided by the use of a complex having such a carbon chain linkage as an olefin polymerization catalyst is practically insufficient. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a novel and useful organic transition metal compound as a catalyst component for the polymerization of a polyolefin. It is another object of the present invention to provide a process for the polymerization of an olefin in the presence of the foregoing organic transition metal compound. These and other objects of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description and examples. In order to accomplish the foregoing objects of the present invention, the inventors synthesized, as a polyolefin polymerization catalyst, a novel and useful organic transition metal compound containing two transition metal atoms per molecule and having a linkage site where a part of ligands of the atoms are directly conjugated via a π bond to form a bidentate structure and made extensive studies of a process for the preparation of a polyolefin in the presence of such an organic transition metal compound as a catalyst component. Thus, the present invention has been worked out. The present invention relates to an organic transition metal compound, represented by the following formula (1): ##STR3## wherein M 1 and M 2 , which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a transition metal atom selected from the group consisting of Ti, Zr and Hf; R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 1 , R 6 , R 7 and R 8 , which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a hydrogen atom, a C 1-10 hydrocarbon group or a C 1-10 alkylsilyl group and may be connected to each other to form rings, with the proviso that at least one of R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 and R 8 is not a hydrogen atom; R 9 , R 10 , R 11 , R 12 , R 13 , R 14 , R 15 , R 16 , R 17 and R 18 , which may be the same or different, each represents a hydrogen atom, a C 1-10 hydrocarbon group or a C 1 - 10 alkylsilyl group and may be connected to each other to form rings; and X 1 , X 2 , X 3 and x 4 , which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a hydrogen atom, a C 1-10 hydrocarbon group, a C 1-10 alkoxy group, a C 1-10 alkylamino group, a C 1-10 alkylsilyl group or a halogen atom. The present invention also relates to a polymerization catalyst comprising, as constituent components, the foregoing organic transition metal compound, an organic aluminum compound, and one or more of compounds capable of cationizing the organic transition metal compound selected from: a protonic acid represented by the following formula (2): HL.sup.1.sub.1 ! AR.sup.19.sub.4 ! (2) wherein H represents a proton; L 1 's each independently represents a Lewis base; 1 represents a number of from more than 0 to not more than 2; A represents a boron atom, an aluminum atom or a gallium atom; and R 19 's each independently represents a C 6-20 halogen-substituted aryl group; a Lewis acid represented by the following formula (3): C! AR.sup.19.sub.4 ! (3) wherein C represents a carbonium cation or a tropylium cation; A represents a boron atom, an aluminum atom or a gallium atom; and R 19 's each independently represents a C 6-20 halogen-substituted aryl group; an ionized ionic compound represented by the following formula (4): DL.sup.2.sub.m ! AR.sup.19.sub.4 ! (4) wherein D represents a cation of a metal selected from metals of the groups 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the periodic table; A represents a boron atom, an aluminum atom or a gallium atom; R 19 's each independently represents a C 6-20 halogen-substituted aryl group; L 2 's each represents a Lewis base or a cyclopentadienyl group; and m represents a number of from not less than 0 to not more than 2; and a Lewis-acid compound represented by the following formula (5): AR.sup.19.sub.3 ( 5) wherein A represents a boron atom, an aluminum atom or a gallium atom; and R 19 's each independently represents a C 6-20 halogen-substituted aryl group. The present invention further relates to a polymerization catalyst, comprising as, constituent components, the organic transition metal compound and an aluminoxane selected from compounds represented by the following formula (6) or (7): ##STR4## wherein R 20 's each independently represents a hydrogen atom, a C 1-20 alkyl group, a C 6-20 aryl, a C 7-20 arylalkyl or a C 7-20 alkylaryl group; and q represents an integer of from 2 to 50. The present invention still further relates to a process for the preparation of a polyolefin, which comprises the polymerization of an olefin in the presence of the foregoing polymerization catalyst. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS By way of example and to make the description more clear, reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which: FIG. 1 illustrates 1 H-NMR spectrum of biindene (dl form) obtained in Example 1; FIG. 2 illustrates 1 H-NMR spectrum of biindene (mixture of meso form and dl form) obtained in Example 1; and FIG. 3 illustrates 1 H-NMR spectrum of (biindenyl)bis-(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride) obtained in Example 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention will be further described hereinafter. The organic transition metal compound of the present invention is a transition metal compound containing two transition metal atoms per molecule and having a bidentate structure wherein a part of ligands of the atoms are directly conjugated by π bond to form a linkage site. In formula (1), M 1 and M 2 , which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a transition metal atom of the group 4 of the periodic table, selected from the group consisting of a titanium atom, a zirconium atom and a hafnium atom. R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 and R 8 , which may be the same or different, each represents a hydrogen atom, a C 1-10 hydrocarbon group or a C 1-10 alkylsilyl group. R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 and R 8 may be connected to each other to form rings. At least one of R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 and R 8 is not a hydrogen atom. Specific examples of the group represented by R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 or R 8 include a hydrogen atom, an aliphatic hydrocarbon group such as a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, an isopropyl group, a butyl group and an tert-butyl group, and an alkylsilyl group such as a trimethylsilyl group. R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 and R 8 may form a ring with the cyclopentadienyl ring to form an indenyl group, a substituted indenyl group such as a 2-methylindenyl group, a fluorenyl group or a substituted fluorenyl group such as a 2,4-dimethylfluorenyl group and a 2,4-di-tert-butylfluorenyl group. R 9 , R 10 , R 11 , R 12 , R 13 , R 14 , R 15 , R 16 , R 17 and R 18 , which are connected to the cyclopentadienyl group, may be the same or different from each other and each represents a hydrogen atom, C 1-10 hydrocarbon group or a C 1-10 alkylsilyl group. R 9 , R 10 , R 11 , R 12 , R 13 , R 14 , R 15 , R 16 , R 17 and R 18 may be connected to each other to form rings. Specific examples of the group represented by R 9 , R 10 , R 11 , R 12 , R 13 , R 14 , R 15 , R 16 , R 17 or R 18 include a hydrogen atom, an aliphatic hydrocarbon group such as a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, an isopropyl group, a butyl group and a tert-butyl group, and an alkylsilyl group such as a trimethylsilyl group. R 9 , R 10 , R 11 , R 12 , R 13 , R 14 , R 15 , R 16 , R 17 and R 18 may form a ring with the cyclopentadienyl ring to form an indenyl group, a substituted indenyl group such as a 2-methylindenyl group, a fluorenyl group or a substituted fluorenyl group such as a 2,4-dimethylfluorenyl group and a 2,4-di-tert-butylfluorenyl group. X 1 , X 1 , X 3 and X 4 , which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a hydrogen atom, a C 1-10 hydrocarbon group such as a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, an isopropyl group, a butyl group, a tert-butyl group, a phenyl group and a benzyl group, a C 1-10 alkoxyl group such as a methoxy group, a C 1-10 alkylamino group such as a dimethylamino group, a C 1-10 alkylsilyl group such as a trimethylsilyl group or a halogen atom such as a fluorine atom, a chlorine atom, a bromine atom and an iodine atom, preferably a chlorine atom, a methyl group or a benzyl group. The organic transition metal compound of the present invention represented by formula (1) may have the following isomers depending on the kind of substituents thereon, synthesis method, purification conditions, etc.: ##STR5## The organic transition metal compound of the present invention represented by formula (1) can be synthesized by, e.g., the following path: ##STR6## However, the present invention is not limited to the foregoing synthesis path. The coupling reaction of cyclopentadiene, indene, fluorene or a derivative thereof shown in the reaction formula (iii) can be effected by the use of a biindene synthesis method described in Synthesis, 203 (1987). In some detail, a substituted cyclopentadiene, indene, fluorene or a derivative thereof is acted with n-butyl lithium to produce a lithium salt which is then acted with anhydrous copper (II) chloride to obtain a bicyclopentadiene derivative. As the method for obtaining a bicyclopentadiene derivative there may be also used a method described in Helvetica Chemica Acta, 69, 1644 (1986) which uses iodine coupling. Further, two cyclopentadiene derivatives may be used to synthesize a ligand of the organic transition metal compound represented by formula (1). In accordance with the reaction of bicyclopentadienyl lithium with a transition metal compound shown by the reaction formula (v), the organic transition metal compound represented by formula (1) can be synthesized. Examples of the reaction solvent to be used in this reaction include diethyl ether, tetrahydrofuran, methylene chloride, and toluene. Preferred among these reaction solvents is toluene. The temperature at which the complex synthesis reaction is effected is from -200° C. to 200° C., preferably from -78° C. to 150° C. The organic transition metal compound of formula (1) thus synthesized can be purified by recrystallization or sublimation. Further, the organic transition metal compound has a bicyclopentadienyl site which is a rigid bidentate ligand having metal-coordinatable sites directly bonded to each other in the complex structure. Therefore, the organic transition metal compound is free from instable factors caused by the structure of a carbon chain linkage site in the foregoing complex and thus is extremely stable and entails no problems of handling. Examples of the bicyclopentadiene derivative to be used in the synthesis of the organic transition metal compound of the present invention represented by formula (1) include 1,1'-bi(2-methylcyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(3-methyl-cyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(2,3-dimethylcyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(2,4-dimethylcyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(2,5-dimethyl-cyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(3,4-dimethylcyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(2,3,4-trimethylcyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(2,3,4,5-tetramethylcyclopentadiene), 1,1'-bi(tetramethylsilylpentadiene), 1,1'-biindene, 1,1'-bi(2-methylindene), 1,1'-bi(tetrahydroindene), 1,1'-bifluorene, 1,1'-bi(2,4-dimethylfluorene), 1,1'-bi(2,4-di-tert-butylfluorene), 1,1'-bi(tetrahydrofluorene), 1,1'-bi(octahydrofluorene), 1-cyclopentadienyl-1'-methylcyclopentadiene, 1-cyclopentadienyl-1'-dimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-cylopentadienyl-1'-trimethylcyclo-pentadiene, 1-cyclopentadienyl-1'-tetramethylcyclopentadiene, 1-methylcyclopentadienyl-1'-dimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-methylcyclopentadienyl-1'-trimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-methylcyclopentadienyl-1'-tetramethylcyclopentadiene, 1-dimethylcyclopentadienyl-1'-trimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-dimethylcyclopentadienyl-1'-tetramethylcyclopentadiene, 1-trimethylcyclopentadienyl-1'-tetramethylcyclopentadiene, 1-indenyl-1'-cyclopentadiene, 1-indenyl-1'-methylcyclopentadiene, 1-indenyl-1'-dimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-indenyl-1'-trimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-indenyl-1'-tetramethylcyclopentadiene, 1-fluorenyl-1'-cyclopentadiene, 1-fluorenyl-1'-methylcyclopentadiene, 1-fluorenyl-1'-dimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-fluorenyl-1'-trimethylcyclopentadiene, 1-fluorenyl-1'-tetramethylcyclopentadiene, and 1-indenyl-1'-fluorene. However, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to these compounds. Specific examples of the transition metal compound to be used in the synthesis of the complex include cyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride, methylcyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride, dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride, trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride, tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride, pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride, trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride, indenylzirconium trichloride, 2-methylindenylzirconium trichloride, tetrahydroindenylzirconium trichloride, fluorenylzirconium trichloride, 2,4-dimethylfluorenyl-zirconium trichloride, 2,4-di-tert-butylzirconium trichloride, tetrahydrofluorenylzirconium trichloride, octahydrofluorenylzirconium trichloride, cyclopentadienylzirconium dimethyl chloride, dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dimethyl chloride, trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dimethyl chloride, tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dimethyl chloride, pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dimethyl chloride, trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium dimethyl chloride, indenylzirconium dimethyl chloride, 2-methylindenylzirconium dimethyl chloride, tetrahydroindenylzirconium dimethyl chloride, fluorenylzirconium dimethyl chloride, 2,4-dimethylfluorenylzirconium dimethyl chloride, 2,4-di-tert-butylzirconium trichloride, tetrahydrofluorenylzirconium dimethyl chloride, octahydrofluorenylzirconium dimethyl chloride, cyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride, methylcyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride, dimethylcyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride, trimethylcyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride, tetramethylcyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride, pentamethylcyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride, trimethylsilylcyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride, indenyltitanium trichloride, 2-methylindenyltitanium trichloride, tetrahydroindenyltitanium trichloride, fluorenyltitanium trichloride, 2,4-dimethylfluorenyltitanium trichloride, 2,4-di-tert-butyltitanium trichloride, tetrahydrofluorenyltitanium trichloride, octahydrofluorenyltitanium trichloride, cyclopentadienyltitanium dimethyl chloride, methylcyclopentadienyltitanium dimethyl chloride, dimethylcyclopentadienyltitanium dimethyl chloride, trimethylcyclopentadienyltitanium dimethyl chloride, tetramethylcyclopentadienyltitanium dimethyl chloride, pentamethylcyclopentadienyltitanium dimethyl chloride, trimethylsilylcyclopentadienyltitanium dimethyl chloride, indenyltitanium dimethyl chloride, 2-methylindenyltitanium dimethyl chloride, tetrahydroindenyltitanium dimethyl chloride, fluorenyltitanium dimethyl chloride, 2,4-dimethylfluorenyltitanium dimethyl chloride, 2,4-di-tert-butyltitanium trichloride, tetrahydrofluorenyltitanium dimethyl chloride, octahydrofluorenyltitanium dimethyl chloride, cyclopentadienylhafnium trichloride, methylcyclopentadienylhafnium trichloride, dimethylcyclopentadienylhafnium trichloride, trimethylcyclopentadienylhafnium trichloride, tetramethylcyclopentadienylhafnium trichloride, pentamethylcyclopentadienylhafnium trichloride, trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylhafnium trichloride, indenylhafnium trichloride, 2-methylindenylhafnium trichloride, tetrahydroindenylhafnium trichloride, fluorenylhafnium trichloride, 2,4-dimethylfluorenylhafnium trichloride, 2,4-di-tert-butylhafnium trichloride, tetrahydrofluorenylhafnium trichloride, octahydrofluorenylhafnium trichloride, cyclopentadienylhafnium dimethyl chloride, methylcyclopentadienylhafnium dimethyl chloride, dimethylcyclopentadienylhafnium dimethyl chloride, trimethylcyclopentadienylhafnium dimethyl chloride, tetramethylcyclopentadienylhafnium dimethyl chloride, pentamethylcyclopentadienylhafnium dimethyl chloride, trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylhafnium dimethyl chloride, indenylhafnium dimethyl chloride, 2-methylindenylhafnium dimethyl chloride, tetrahydroindenylhafnium dimethyl chloride, fluorenylhafnium dimethyl chloride, 2,4-dimethylfluorenylhafnium dimethyl chloride, 2,4-di-tert-butylhafnium trichloride, tetrahydrofluorenylhafnium dimethyl chloride, and octahydrofluorenylhafnium dimethyl chloride. The present invention should not construed as being limited to these compounds. Specific examples of the organic transition metal compound of the present invention represented by formula (1) include (biindenyl)bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(1,2-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(1,3-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(1,2,3-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(1,2, 4-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)-bis(trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis di(trimethylsilyl)cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride!, (biindenyl)bis(indenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(2-methylindenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(tetrahydroindenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(2,4-dimethylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)bis(2,4-di-tert-butylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl) (cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl) (cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethyl-cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride),(biindenyl) (methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride) (biindenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(indenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl) (methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(indenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl) (trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(indenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl) (cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), (biindenyl)(indenyldichlorozirconium)(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-bis(1, 3-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2,3-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2,4-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl) !-bis(trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis di(trimethylsilyl)-cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2-methylindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(tetrahydroindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2,4-dimethylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2, 4-d-tert-butylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichloro zirconium)(dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(pentamethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(dimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(indenyldichlorozirconium)(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-bis(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-bis(1, 3-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2,3-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2,4-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclo-pentadienyl)!bis(trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis di(trimethyl-silyl)cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2-methylindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(tetrahydroindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2,4-dimethylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2,4-di-tertbutylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopenta-dienylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(pentamethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!(indenyldichlorozirconium)-(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(trimethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopenta-dienyl)!bis(1,2-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1, 3-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)! bis(1,2, 3-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethyl-cyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2,4-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!-bis(trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis di(trimethylsilyl)-cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2-methylindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis-(tetrahydroindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2, 4-dimethylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethyl-cyclopentadienyl)!bis(2,4-di-tert-butylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyl-dichlorozirconium) (dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(trimethylcyclopentadienyl-zirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopenta-dienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyl-dichlorozirconium) (trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclo-pentadienyldichlorozirconium)(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(pentamethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)!(indenyldichlorozirconium)-(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopenta dienyl)!bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(methylcyclopentadienyl zirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!-bis(1, 2-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,3-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2,3-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(1,2, 4-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclo-pentadienyl)!bis di(trimethylsilyl)cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!-bis(2-methylindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(tetrahydroindenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2,4-dimethylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!bis(2,4-di-tert-butylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyl-dichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!(pentamethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (fluorenylzirconium dichloride), bi(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)!-(indenyldichlorozirconium) (fluorenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(1,2-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(1,3-dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(1,2,3-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(1,2,4-trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(trimethylsilylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis di(trimethylsilyl)cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride!, (bifluorenyl)bis(2-methylindenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis-(tetrahydroindenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(fluorenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(2,4-dimethylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)bis(2,4-di-tert-butylfluorenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (methylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl) (cyclo-pentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (dimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(trimethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(tetramethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(tetramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(pentamethylcyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(indenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(methylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(dimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(indenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(trimethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(teramethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)-(indenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(pentamethylcyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium)(indenylzirconium dichloride), (bifluorenyl)(cyclopentadienyldichlorozirconium) (fluorenylzirconium dichloride), and (bifluorenyl)(indenyldichlorozirconium)(fluorenylzirconium dichloride). In these organic transition metal compounds represented by formula (1), the two transition metal atoms M 1 and M 2 may be titanium atoms or hafnium atoms instead of the zirconium atoms. Alternatively, M 1 may be a titanium atom instead of the zirconium atom while M 2 is still the zirconium atom, or vice versa. Further, M 1 and M 2 may respectively be a titanium atom and a hafnium atom instead of the zirconium atoms, or vice versa. Moreover, M 2 is a hafnium atom while M 1 is the zirconium atom, or vice versa. Still further, the ligand of the transition metal atom may be a hydrogen atom, a methyl group or a benzyl group instead of the chlorine atom. The present invention also relates to a polymerization catalyst comprising the foregoing organic transition metal compound as a main catalyst and a process for the preparation of a polyolefin, which comprises the polymerization of an olefin in the presence of the polymerization catalyst. The components to be used as the other constituents of the polymerization catalyst, i.e., a protonic acid represented by formula (2), a Lewis acid represented by formula (3), an ionized ionic compound represented by formula (4) and a Lewis-acidic-compound represented by formula (5) are compounds capable of cationizing the foregoing organic transition metal compound, and they exert a weak coordination to or interaction with the cationic compound thus produced but provide non-reactive paired anion. Specific examples of the protonic acid represented by formula (2) include diethyloxoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, dimethyloxoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)-borate, tetramethyleneoxoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)-borate, hydroniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, N,N-dimethylanilinumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, tri-n-butylammoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, diethyloxoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, dimethyloxoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, tetramethyleneoxoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, hydroniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, N,N-dimethylaniliniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, and tri-n-butylammoniumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate. However, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to these compounds. Specific examples of the Lewis acid represented by formula (3) include trityltetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, trityltetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, tropyliumterakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, and tropyliumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate. However, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to these compounds. Specific examples of the ionized ionic compound represented by formula (4) include lithium salts such as lithiumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate and lithiumtetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, ether complex thereof, ferrocenium salts such as ferroceniumtetrakis-(pentafluorophenyl)borate and ferroceniumtetrakis-(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, and silver salts such as silvertetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate and silvertetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate. However, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to these compounds. Specific examples of the Lewis-acidic-compound represented by formula (5) include tris(pentafluorophenyl)boran, tris(2,3,5,6-tetrafluorophenyl)boran, tris(2,3,4,5-tetraphenylphenyl)boran, tris(3,4,5-trifluorophenyl)boran, phenylbis(perfluorophenyl)boran, and tris(3,4,5-trifluorophenyl)aluminum. However, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to these compounds. As the organic aluminum compound to be used in combination with the protonic acid, the Lewis acid, the ionized ionic compound or the Lewis-acid compound there may be used a compound represented by the following formula (8): ##STR7## wherein R 21 , R 21 ' and R 21 ", which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an amido group, an alkoxide group or a hydrocarbon group, with the proviso that at least one of R 21 R 21 ' and R 21 " is a hydrocarbon group. Preferred examples of the group represented by R 21 , R 21 ' and R 21 " include a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a C 1-10 amido group, a C 1-10 alkoxide group and a C 1-10 hydrocarbon group. Specific examples of the compound include trimethylaluminum, triethylaluminum, triisobutylaluminum, dimethylaluminum chloride, and diethylaluminum chloride. The polymerization catalyst can be prepared by combining the organic transition metal compound with an aluminoxane of formula (6) or (7) as follows: ##STR8## wherein R 20 's each independently represents hydrogen, C 1-20 alkyl, C 7-20 arylalkyl or a C 1-20 alkylaryl; and q represents an integer of from 2 to 50. The process for the preparation of a catalyst from the foregoing compounds and the organic transition metal compound is not specifically limited. For example, the catalyst may be prepared by mixing these two components with the use of a solvent inert to these components or a monomer to be polymerized as a solvent. The order of the reaction of these components is not specifically limited. The reaction time and temperature are not specifically limited. The ratio of the organic transition metal compound to the organic aluminum compound during the preparation of the catalyst is not specifically limited, but the molar ratio of the organic transition metal compound to the metal atom in the organic aluminum compound is preferably from 100:1 to 1:100,000, particularly from 1:1 to 1:10,000. The ratio of the organic transition metal compound to the protonic acid, the Lewis acid, the ionized ionic compound and/or the Lewis-acid compound is not specifically limited, but the molar ratio of the organic transition metal compound to these compounds (the protonic acid, the Lewis acid, the ionized ionic compound and/or the Lewis-acid compound) is preferably from 10:1 to 1:1,000, particularly from 3:1 to 1:100. The present invention further relates to a polymerization catalyst comprising the foregoing organic transition metal compound and an aluminoxane as constituent components and a process for the preparation of a polyolefin, which comprises the polymerization of an olefin in the presence of the polymerization catalyst. The aluminoxane employable herein is a compound having an aluminum-oxygen bond represented by formula (6) or (7). In these formulae (6) and (7), R 20 's, which may be the same or different from each other, each represents a hydrogen atom, a C 1-20 alkyl group, a C 6-20 aryl group, a C 7-20 arylalkyl group or a C 7-20 alkylaryl group. Specific examples of these groups include a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a hexyl group, a phenyl group, a tolyl group, and a cyclohexyl group. The suffix q represents an integer of from 2 to 50. The process for the preparation of a catalyst from the aluminoxane and the organic transition metal compound is not specifically limited. For example, the catalyst may be prepared by mixing these two compounds with the use of a solvent inert to these compounds or a monomer to be polymerized as a solvent. The temperature for this treatment and time are not specifically limited. The ratio of the organic transition metal compound to the aluminoxane during the preparation of the catalyst is not specifically limited, but the molar ratio of the organic transition metal compound to the metal atom in the aluminoxane is preferably from 100:1 to 1:1,000,000, particularly from 1:1 to 1:100,000. The polymerization according to the present invention may be an ordinary polymerization method such as slurry polymerization, gas phase polymerization, high pressure polymerization, solution polymerization and bulk polymerization. When the organic transition metal compound is used as a catalyst component in the polymerization process of the present invention, two or more of them may be used in combination. As the solvent, if used in the polymerization process of the present invention, there may be used any of generally used organic solvent. Specific examples of such an organic solvent include benzene, toluene, xylene, pentane, hexane, heptane, and methylene chloride. An olefin such as propylene, butene-1, octene-1 and hexene-1 may be used as a solvent by itself. Examples of the olefin to be polymerized in the present invention include an α-olefin such as ethylene, propylene, butene-1, 4-methylpentene-1, hexene-1, octene-1 and styrene, a conjugated or non-conjugated diene such as α-olefin, butadiene, 1,4-hexadiene, 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene, dicyclopentadiene, 4-methyl-1,4-hexadiene and 7-methyl-1,6-octadiene, and a cyclic olefin such as cyclobutene. Further, two or more olefins may be used in admixture, such as ethylene, propylene and styrene; ethylene, hexene-1 and styrene; and ethylene, propylene and ethylidiene norbornene. In the preparation of a polyolefin according to the polymerization process of the present invention, polymerization conditions such as the polymerization temperature, the polymerization time, the polymerization pressure and the monomer concentration are not specifically limited, but the polymerization temperature is preferably from -100° C. to 300° C. The polymerization time is preferably from 20 seconds to 20 hours, and the polymerization pressure is preferably from normal pressure to 3,000 kg/cm 2 G. During the polymerization process, hydrogen or the like may be used to control the molecular weight of the product. The polymerization may be carried out in a batchwise, semi-continuous or continuous manner. Alternatively, the polymerization process may be carried out in two or more stages with varied conditions. Further, the polyolefin obtained by the polymerization process can be recovered from the polymerization apparatus by any conventionally known method, and then dried to obtain the desired polyolefin. The present invention will be further described in the following examples, but the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto. All the reactions were carried out in an atmosphere of inert gas. The solvents used in these reactions had all been previously subjected to purification, drying or deoxidation by a known method. The identification of the organic metal compounds was accomplished by the use of a 1 H-NMR measuring apparatus (Type GPX-400 NMR measuring apparatus, available from Jeol Ltd.). EXAMPLE 1 (Synthesis of biindene) 36 m of a 1.64 mol/l hexane solution of n-BuLi was slowly added dropwise to 6.24 g (53.7 mmol) of indene dissolved in 100m of diethyl ether which had been cooled to a temperature of -78° C. in nitrogen stream. The mixture was stirred at a temperature of -78° C. for 30 minutes, and then at a temperature of -30° C. for 30 minutes. To the resulting suspension was then added slowly 7.41 g (55 mmol) of anhydrous copper (II) chloride suspended in 100 m of diethyl ether which had been cooled to a temperature of -30° C. The mixture was then stirred at a temperature of -30° C. for 30 minutes. To the reaction solution was then added water to stop the reaction. The reaction solution was then extracted with diethyl ether. The extract was then dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate. To the extract thus dried was then added activated carbon and thereafter the extract was filtered and evaporated to remove the solvent therefrom to obtain a reaction mixture in the form of a light brown solid. The reaction mixture thus obtained was then cooled with chilled methanol to obtain a colorless solid (2.81 g). 1 H-NMR spectrum (CDCl 3 ) of the solid thus obtained was as follows: ______________________________________dl form: δ = 4.20 (s, Ind-H) 5.86 (d, Cp) 6.71 (d, Cp) 7.2-7.6 (m, aromatic-H)meso form: δ = 4.16 (s, Ind-H) 6.35 (d, Cp) 6.75 (d, Cp) 6.9-7.2 (m, aromatic-H).______________________________________ The measured melting point of the solid (dl form) was 98° C. Biindene has a melting point of 99° C. (dl form) according to the literature. Thus, the solid thus obtained was identified as biindene. 1 H-NMR spectrum of this compound is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. EXAMPLE 2 (Synthesis of (biindenyl)bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride) 3 ml of a 1.64 mol/l hexane solution of n-BuLi was slowly added dropwise to 0.51 g (2.2 mmol) of biindene dissolved in 50 ml of hexane which had been cooled to a temperature of 0° C. in nitrogen stream. The mixture was stirred at a temperature of 0° C. for 1 hour, and then at room temperature overnight. The solvent was then distilled off under reduced pressure. The resulting solid was then washed with hexane to obtain a lithium salt of biindene. The lithium salt of biindene thus obtained was then cooled to a temperature of -78° C. To the lithium salt was then added 100m of toluene. To the resulting suspension was then slowly added 1.14 g (4.4 mmol) of cyclopentadienylzirconium trichloride suspended in 100 m of toluene. The suspension was stirred overnight while elevating the reaction temperature to 0° C. and then the reaction temperature was slowly raised to room temperature. The suspension was further stirred at room temperature for 3 hours and then heated under reflux for 30 hours. Thereafter, the solvent was distilled off from the reaction mixture under reduced pressure and the resultant was then extracted with methylene chloride. The extract was subjected to distillation under reduced pressure to remove the solvent therefrom to obtain a yellow solid. The solid thus obtained was then recrystallized from methylene chloride/diethyl ether to obtain a yellow solid. 1 H-NMR spectrum (CDCl 3 ) of the solid thus obtained was as follows: ##STR9## This solid was identified as (biindenyl)bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride). 1 H-NMR spectrum of this compound is shown in FIG. 3. EXAMPLE 3 Into a 2l-autoclave were charged 500 m of toluene, 1.25 mmol (in aluminum equivalence) of methyl aluminoxane (molecular weight: 1,121; available from Toso Aczo Co., Ltd.), and 0.68 mg of (biindenyl)bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride) obtained in Example 2. The system was then allowed to undergo polymerization at a temperature of 80° C. for 30 minutes by feeding ethylene into the autoclave in such a manner that the ethylene pressure becomes 8 kg/cm 2 G to obtain 18.30 g of a polymer. EXAMPLE 4 Into a 2-autoclave were charged 500 ml of toluene, 0.125 mmol of triisobutyl aluminum, 0.17 mg of (biindenyl)bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride) obtained in Example 2, and 1.0 mg of N,N-dimethy!aniliniumtetrakispentafluorophenylborate. The system was then allowed to undergo polymerization at a temperature of 80° C. for 30 minutes by feeding ethylene into the autoclave in such a manner that the ethylene pressure becomes 8 kg/cm 2 G to obtain 12.6 g of a polymer. EXAMPLE 5 Into a 2l-autoclave were charged 500 ml of toluene, 15 m of hexene-1, 1.25 mmol (in aluminum equivalence) of methyl aluminoxane (molecular weight: 1,121; available from Toso Aczo Co., Ltd.), and 0.68 mg of (biindenyl)bis(cyclopentadienylzirconium dichloride) obtained in Example 2. The system was then allowed to undergo polymerization at a temperature of 80° C. for 30 minutes by feeding ethylene into the autoclave in such a manner that the ethylene pressure becomes 8 kg/cm 2 G to obtain 15.3 g of a polymer. The organic transition metal compound of the present invention is novel and the use of this compound as an olefin polymerization catalyst advantageously makes it possible to efficiently produce a polyolefin. While the invention has been described in detail and with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.
A novel organic transition metal compound is disclosed, which is represented by the following formula (1): ##STR1## wherein the all symbols are defined in the disclosure. A polymerization catalyst comprising the organic transition metal compound and a process for the preparation of a polyolefin using the polymerization catalyst are also disclosed.
2
The application claims the filing-date priority of Provisional Application No. 61/142,575, filed Jan. 5, 2009, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety; the application also claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/139,391, filed Jun. 13, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety; this application also claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/652,040, filed Jan. 5, 2010, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. BACKGROUND 1. Field of the Invention The disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for efficient deposition of a patterned film on a substrate. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for supporting and transporting a substrate on gas bearing during thermal jet printing of material on a substrate. 2. Description of Related Art The manufacture of organic light emitting devices (OLEDs) requires depositing one or more organic films on a substrate and coupling the top and bottom of the film stack to electrodes. The film thickness is a prime consideration. The total layer stack thickness is about 100 nm and each layer is optimally deposited uniformly with an accuracy of better than .+−.1 nm. Film purity is also important. Conventional apparatuses form the film stack using one of two methods: (1) thermal evaporation of organic material in a relative vacuum environment and subsequent condensation of the organic vapor on the substrate; or, (2) dissolution of organic material into a solvent, coating the substrate with the resulting solution, and subsequent removal of the solvent. Another consideration in depositing the organic thin films of an OLED is placing the films precisely at the desired location on the substrate. There are two conventional technologies for performing this task, depending on the method of film deposition. For thermal evaporation, shadow masking is used to form OLED films of a desired configuration. Shadow masking techniques require placing a well-defined mask over a region of the substrate followed by depositing the film over the entire substrate area. Once deposition is complete, the shadow mask is removed. The regions exposed through the mask define the pattern of material deposited on the substrate. This process is inefficient as the entire substrate must be coated, even though only the regions exposed through the shadow mask require a film. Furthermore, the shadow mask becomes increasingly coated with each use, and must eventually be discarded or cleaned. Finally, the use of shadow masks over large areas is made difficult by the need to use very thin masks (to achieve small feature sizes) that make said masks structurally unstable. However, the vapor deposition technique yields OLED films with high uniformity and purity and excellent thickness control. For solvent deposition, ink jet printing can be used to deposit patterns of OLED films. Ink jet printing requires dissolving organic material into a solvent that yields a printable ink. Furthermore, ink jet printing is conventionally limited to the use of single layer OLED film stacks, which typically have lower performance as compared to multilayer stacks. The single-layer limitation arises because printing typically causes destructive dissolution of any underlying organic layers. Finally, unless the substrate is first prepared to define the regions into which the ink is to be deposited, a step that increases the cost and complexity of the process, ink jet printing is limited to circular deposited areas with poor thickness uniformity as compared to vapor deposited films. The material quality is also lower due to structural changes in the material that occur during the drying process and due to material impurities present in the ink. However, the ink jet printing technique is capable of providing patterns of OLED films over very large areas with good material efficiency. No conventional technique combines the large area patterning capabilities of ink jet printing with the high uniformity, purity, and thickness control achieved with vapor deposition for organic thin films. Because ink jet processed single layer OLED devices continue to have inadequate quality for widespread commercialization, and thermal evaporation remains impractical for scaling to large areas, it is a major technological challenge for the OLED industry to develop a technique that can offer both high film quality and cost-effective large area scalability. Manufacturing OLED displays may also require the patterned deposition of thin films of metals, inorganic semiconductors, and/or inorganic insulators. Conventionally, vapor deposition and/or sputtering have been used to deposit these layers. Patterning is accomplished using prior substrate preparation (e.g., patterned coating with an insulator), shadow masking as described above, and when a fresh substrate or protective layers are employed, conventional photolithography. Each of these approaches is inefficient as compared to the direct deposition of the desired pattern, either because it wastes material or requires additional processing steps. Thus, for these materials as well there is a need for a method and apparatus for depositing high-quality, cost effective, large area scalable films. Certain applications of thermal jet printing require non-oxidizing environment to prevent oxidation of the deposited materials or associated inks. In a conventional method, a sealed nitrogen tent is used to prevent oxidation. Conventional systems use a floating system to support and move the substrate. A floatation system can be defined as a bearing system of alternative gas bearings and vacuum ports. The gas bearings provide the lubricity and non-contacting support for the substrate, while the vacuum supports the counter-force necessary to strictly control the height at which the relatively light-weight substrate floats. Since high-purity nitrogen gas can be a costly component of the printing system, it is important to minimize nitrogen loss to the ambient. Accordingly, there is a need for load-locked printing system which supports a substrate on gas bearings while minimizing system leakage and nitrogen loss. SUMMARY The disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for preventing oxidation or contamination during a thermal jet printing operation. The thermal jet printing operation may include OLED printing and the printing material may include suitable ink composition. In an exemplary embodiment, the printing process is conducted at a load-locked printer housing having one or more chambers. Each chamber is partitioned from the other chambers by physical gates or fluidic curtains. A controller coordinates transportation of a substrate through the system and purges the system by timely opening appropriate gates. The substrate may be transported using gas bearings which are formed using a plurality of vacuum and gas input portals. The controller may also provide a non-oxidizing environment within the chamber using a gas similar to, or different from, the gas used for the gas bearings. The controller may also control the printing operation by energizing the print-head at a time when the substrate is positioned substantially thereunder. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a method for printing a film of OLED material on a substrate by (i) receiving the substrate at an inlet chamber; (ii) flooding the inlet load-locked chamber with a noble gas and sealing the inlet chamber; (iii) directing at least a portion of the substrate to a print-head chamber and discharging a quantity of OLED material from a thermal jet discharge nozzle onto the portion of the substrate; (iv) directing the substrate to an outlet chamber; (v) partitioning the print-head chamber from the outlet chamber; and (vi) unloading the print-head from the outlet chamber. In one embodiment of the invention, the print-head chamber pulsatingly delivers a quantity of material from a thermal jet discharge nozzle to the substrate. In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a method for depositing a material on a substrate. The method includes the steps of: (i) receiving the substrate at an inlet chamber; (ii) flooding the inlet chamber with a chamber gas and sealing the inlet chamber; (iii) directing at least a portion of the substrate to a print-head chamber and discharging a quantity of material from a thermal jet discharge nozzle onto the portion of the substrate; (iv) directing the substrate to an outlet chamber; (v) partitioning the print-head chamber from the outlet chamber; and (vi) unloading the print-head from the outlet chamber. The print-head chamber pulsatingly delivers a quantity of material from a thermal jet discharge nozzle to the substrate. In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a load-locked printing apparatus, comprising an inlet chamber for receiving a substrate, the inlet chamber having a first partition and a second partition; a print-head chamber in communication with the inlet chamber, the print-head chamber having a discharge nozzle for pulsatingly metering a quantity of ink onto a substrate, the second partition separating the print-head chamber from the inlet chamber; an outlet chamber in communication with the print-head chamber through a third partition, the outlet chamber receiving the substrate from print head chamber and exiting the substrate from a fourth chamber. In a preferred embodiment, the inlet chamber, the print-head chamber and the outlet chamber provide an inert gas environment while the discharge nozzle pulsatingly meters the quantity of ink onto the substrate. Although the implementation of the invention are not limited thereto, the inert gas environment can be a noble gas (e.g. argon, helium, nitrogen or hydrogen). In still another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a load-locked thermal jet printing system. The system includes a housing with an inlet partition and an outlet partition. The housing defines a print-head chamber for depositing a quantity of ink onto a substrate. The housing also includes an inlet partition and an outlet partition for receiving and dispatching the substrate. A gas input provides a first gas to the housing. A controller communicates with the print-head chamber, the gas input and the inlet and outlet partitions. The controller comprises a processor circuit in communication with a memory circuit, the memory circuit instructing the processor circuit to (i) receive the substrate at the inlet partition; (ii) purge the housing with the first gas; (iii) direct the substrate to a discharge nozzle at the print-head chamber; (iv) energize the thermal jet discharge nozzle to pulsatingly deliver a quantity of film material from the discharge nozzle onto the substrate; and (v) dispatch the substrate from the housing through the outlet partition. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS These and other embodiments of the disclosure will be discussed with reference to the following exemplary and non-limiting illustrations, in which like elements are numbered similarly, and where: FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a conventional substrate floatation system; FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an exemplary load-locked printing housing; FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of the load-locked printing housing of FIG. 2 receiving a substrate; FIG. 4 schematically shows the substrate received at the print-head chamber of the housing; FIG. 5 schematically shows the completion of the printing process of FIGS. 3 and 4 ; FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a print-head for use with the load-locked housing of FIG. 2 ; and FIG. 7 is an exemplary load-locked system according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG. 8 shows several types of substrate misalignment within the print system, and FIG. 9 shows a substrate pattern including fiducials and initial locus of area viewed by a camera or other imaging devices. DETAILED DESCRIPTION FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a conventional substrate floatation system. More specifically, FIG. 1 shows a portion of a flotation system in which substrate 100 is supported by air bearings. The air bearings are shown schematically as arrows entering and leaving between baffles 110 . The substrate floatation system of FIG. 1 is typically housed in a sealed chamber (not shown). The chamber includes multiple vacuum outlet ports and gas bearing inlet ports, which are typically arranged on a flat surface. Substrate 100 is lifted and kept off a hard surface by the pressure of a gas such as nitrogen. The flow out of the bearing volume is accomplished by means of multiple vacuum outlet ports. The floating height is typically a function of the gas pressure and flow. In principle, any gas can be utilized for such a substrate floatation system; however, in practice it is preferable to utilize a floatation gas that is inert to the materials that come into contact with the gas. As a result, it is conventional to use noble gases (e.g., nitrogen, argon, and helium) as they usually demonstrate sufficient inertness. The floatation gas is an expensive component of the substrate floatation system. The cost is compounded when the printing system calls for substantially pure gas. Thus, it is desirable to minimize any gas loss to the environment. FIG. 2 is a simplified representation of an exemplary load-locked printing housing according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Housing 200 is divided into three chambers, including inlet chamber 210 , print-head chamber 220 and outlet chamber 230 . As will be discussed, each chamber is separated from the rest of housing 200 through a gate or a partition. In one embodiment of the disclosure the gates or partitions substantially seal the chambers from the ambient environment and from the rest of housing 200 . In another embodiment of the disclosure (not shown), chamber 230 is not included in housing 200 , and chamber 210 is utilized as both an inlet and an outlet chamber. FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of the load-locked printing housing of FIG. 2 receiving a substrate. During operation, substrate 350 is received at inlet chamber 310 through inlet gates 312 . Inlet gates 312 can comprise a variety of options, including single or multiple moving gates. The gates can also be complemented with an air curtain (not shown) for minimizing influx of ambient gases into inlet chamber 310 . Alternatively, the gates can be replaced with air curtains acting as a partition. Similar schemes can be deployed in all gates of the housing. Once substrate 350 is received at inlet chamber 310 , inlet gates 312 close. The substrate can then be detained at inlet chamber 310 . At this time, the inlet chamber can be optionally purged from any ambient gases and refilled with the desired chamber gas, which is conventionally selected to be the same as the floatation gas, e.g. pure nitrogen or other noble gases. During the purging process, print-head inlet gate 322 as well as inlet gate 312 remain closed. Print-head inlet gate 322 can define a physical or a gas curtain. Alternatively, print-head inlet gate 322 can define a physical gate similar to inlet gate 312 . FIG. 4 schematically shows the substrate received at the print-head chamber of the housing. Air bearings can be used to transport substrate 450 from inlet chamber 410 through print-head inlet gate 422 and into print-chamber 420 . Print-head chamber 420 houses the thermal jet print-head, and optionally, the ink reservoir. The printing process occurs at print-head chamber 420 . In one implementation of the invention, once substrate 450 is received at print-head chamber 420 , print-head gates 422 and 424 are closed during the printing process. Print-head chamber can be optionally purged with a chamber gas (e.g., high purity nitrogen) for further purification of the printing environment. In another implementation, substrate 450 is printed while gates 422 and 424 remain open. During the printing operation, substrate 450 can be supported by air bearings. The substrate's location in relation to housing 400 can be controlled using a combination of air pressure and vacuum, such as those shown in FIG. 1 . In an alternative embodiment, the substrate is transported through housing 400 using a conveyer belt. Once the printing process is complete, the substrate is transported to the outlet chamber as shown in FIG. 5 . Here, print-head gates 522 and 524 are closed to seal off outlet chamber 530 from the remainder of housing 500 . Outlet gate 532 is opened to eject substrate 550 as indicated by the arrow. The process shown in FIGS. 3-5 can be repeated to continuously print OLED materials on multiple substrates. Alternatively, gates 512 , 522 , 524 and 532 can be replaced with air curtains to provide for continuous and uninterrupted printing process. In another embodiment of the disclosure, once the printing process is complete, the substrate is transported back to the inlet chamber 310 through gate 322 , where gate 322 can be subsequently sealed off and gate 312 opened to eject the substrate. In this embodiment, inlet chamber 310 functions also as the outlet chamber, functionally replacing outlet chamber 530 . The print-head chamber houses the print-head. In a preferred embodiment, the print-head comprises an ink chamber in fluid communication with nozzle. The ink chamber receives ink, comprising particles of the material to be deposited on the substrate dissolved or suspended in a carrier liquid, in substantially liquid form from a reservoir. The ink head chamber then meters a specified quantity of ink onto an upper face of a thermal jet discharge nozzle having a plurality of conduits such that upon delivery to the upper face, the ink flows into the conduits. The thermal jet discharge nozzle is activated such that the carrier liquid is removed leaving behind in the conduits the particles in substantially solid form. The thermal jet discharge nozzle is then further pulsatingly activated to deliver the quantity of material in substantially vapor form onto the substrate, where it condenses into substantially solid form. FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a thermal jet print-head for use with the load-locked housing of FIG. 2 . Print-head 600 includes ink chamber 615 which is surrounded by top structure 610 and energizing element 620 . Ink chamber 615 is in liquid communication with an ink reservoir (not shown). Energizing element 620 can comprise a piezoelectric element or a heater. Energizing element 620 is energized intermittently to dispense a metered quantity of ink, optionally in the form of a liquid droplet, on the top surface of the thermal jet discharge nozzle 640 . Bottom structure 630 supports nozzle 640 through brackets 660 . Brackets 660 can include and integrated heating element. The heating element is capable of instantaneously heating thermal jet discharge nozzle 640 such that the ink carrier liquid evaporates from the conduits 650 . The heating element is further capable of instantaneously heating the thermal jet discharge nozzle 650 such that substantially solid particles in the discharge nozzle are delivered from the conduits in substantially vapor form onto the substrate, where they condense into substantially solid form. Print-head 600 operates entirely within the print-head chamber 220 and housing 200 of FIG. 2 . Thus, for properly selected chamber and floatation gases (e.g. high purity nitrogen in most instances), the ink is not subject to oxidation during the deposition process. In addition, the load-locked housing can be configured to receive a transport gas, such as a noble gas, for carrying the material from the thermal jet discharge nozzle 640 onto the substrate surface. The transport gas may also transport the material from the thermal jet discharge nozzle 640 to the substrate by flowing through conduits 650 . In a preferred embodiment, multiple print-heads 600 are arranged within a load-locked print system as an array. The array can be configured to deposit material on a substrate by activating the print-heads simultaneously or sequentially. FIG. 7 is an exemplary load-locked system according to an embodiment of the invention. Load-locked system of FIG. 7 includes a housing with inlet chamber 710 , print-head chamber 720 and outlet chamber 730 . Inlet chamber 710 communicates through gates 712 and 722 . Print-head chamber 720 receives substrate 750 from the inlet chamber and deposits organic LED material thereon as described in relation to FIG. 6 . Gate 724 communicates substrate 750 to outlet chamber 730 after the printing process is completed. The substrate exists outlet chamber 730 through gate 732 . Vacuum and pressure can be used to transport substrate 750 through the load-locked system of FIG. 7 . To control transporting the substrate, controller 770 communicates with nitrogen source 762 and vacuum 760 through valves 772 and 774 , respectively. Controller 770 comprises one or more processor circuits (not shown) in communication with one or more memory circuit (not shown). The controller also communicates with the load-locked housing and ultimately with the print nozzle. In this manner, controller 770 can coordinate opening and closing gates 712 , 722 , 724 and 732 . Controller 770 can also control ink dispensing by activating the piezoelectric element and/or the heater (see FIG. 6 ). The substrate can be transported through the load-locked print system through air bearings or by a physical conveyer under the control of the controller. In an exemplary operation, a memory circuit (not shown) of controller 770 provides instructions to a processor circuit (not shown) to: (i) receive the substrate at the inlet partition; (ii) purge the housing with the first gas; (iii) direct the substrate to a discharge nozzle at the print-head chamber; (iv) energize the discharge nozzle to pulsatingly deliver a quantity of material from the thermal jet discharge nozzle onto the substrate; and (v) dispatch the substrate from the housing through the outlet partition. The first gas and the second gas can be different or identical gases. The first and/or the second gas can be selected from the group comprising nitrogen, argon, and helium. Controller 770 may also identify the location of the substrate through the load-locked print system and dispense ink from the print-head only when the substrate is at a precise location relative to the print-head. Another aspect of the invention relates to registering the substrate relative to the print-head. Printing registration is defined as the alignment and the size of one printing process with respect to the previous printing processes performed on the same substrate. In order to achieve appropriate registration, the print-head and the substrate need to be aligned substantially identically in each printing step. In one implementation of the invention, the substrate is provided with horizontal motion (i.e., motion in the x direction) and the print-head is provided with another horizontal motion (i.e., motion in the y direction). The x and y directions may be orthogonal to each other. With this arrangement, the movement of the print-head with respect to the substrate can be defined with a combination of these two horizontal directions. When the substrate is loaded onto a load-locked system, the areas to be printed are usually not perfectly aligned in the x and y directions of the system. Thus, there is a need for detecting the misalignment, determining the required corrections to the motion of the print-head relative to the substrate and applying the corrections. According to one embodiment of the invention, the pattern or the previous printing is detected using a pattern recognition system. This pattern can be inherent in the previous printing or may have been added deliberately (i.e., fiducials) for the pattern recognition step. By means of its recognition of the pattern, the misalignment of the substrate to the printing system's motion, direction or axis can be determined. This manifests itself as a magnification misalignment, a translational misalignment and an angular misalignment. FIG. 8 shows several types of substrate misalignment within the print system, including translational misalignment, rotational misalignment, magnification misalignment and combinational misalignment. For each print-head scan motion relative to the substrate, the pattern recognition system will look for and find/recognize the desired pattern. The pattern recognition system can optionally be integrated with the controller (see FIG. 7 ). The pattern recognition system will look for and find/recognize the desired pattern. The pattern recognition system will provide the degree of error/misalignment in the x and y directions to the system's controller, which will then reposition the print-head and substrate to eliminate the error/misalignment. This means that for several motions of the print-head with respect to the substrate, the motion control system will check for misalignment and make the necessary corrections. Alternatively, an initial scan of the entire substrate can be performed by the pattern recognition system utilizing the x and y motions available in the printing system. FIG. 9 shows a substrate pattern including fiducials and initial locus of area viewed by a camera or other imaging devices. In FIG. 9 , fiducials or alignment targets are identified as boxes 910 in each replicated “pixel.” Each pixel in this example, and in many OLED applications, comprises three sub-pixels each having a distinct color: red, green, and blue (RGB). The camera or the pattern recognition device initially focuses on an area of the substrate identified by circle 930 . Once the amount of misalignment is determined, the motion control system can compensate for the misalignment by causing the x and the y directions to move in a rotated and translated set of axes x 1 and y 1 such that these axis are a linear combination of the previous motions. For either alignment technique, the printing control system will then cause the print-head to fire appropriately at the desired print axis as it scans the substrate. In the case of the embodiment described above, the print system will periodically use the pattern recognition system to update and adjust for any misalignment, causing the print-head to fire after alignment has been achieved. Depending on the degree of misalignment, the required update and adjustment steps may have to be repeated more often during the printing operations. Alternatively, the pattern recognition system must scan the substrate initially to assess the amount and direction of misalignment, then printing control system will utilize the misalignment information to adjust the print-head firing accordingly. While the principles of the disclosure have been illustrated in relation to the exemplary embodiments shown herein, the principles of the disclosure are not limited thereto and include any modification, variation or permutation thereof. For example, while the exemplary embodiments are discussed in relation to a thermal jet discharge nozzle, the disclosed principles can be implemented with different type of nozzles. Moreover, the same or different gases can be used for floating the substrate and for providing a non-oxidizing environment within the chamber. These gases need not be noble gases. Finally, the substrate may enter the system from any direction and the schematic of a tri-chamber system is entirely exemplary.
The disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for preventing oxidation or contamination during a circuit printing operation. The circuit printing operation can be directed to OLED-type printing. In an exemplary embodiment, the printing process is conducted at a load-locked printer housing having one or more of chambers. Each chamber is partitioned from the other chambers by physical gates or fluidic curtains. A controller coordinates transportation of a substrate through the system and purges the system by timely opening appropriate gates. The controller may also control the printing operation by energizing the print-head at a time when the substrate is positioned substantially thereunder.
1
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates to an unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt that is an effective biocide in combination with a germicidal/bactericidal ingredient, alkyl-dimethyl-benzyl-ammonium chloride (Benzalkronium Chloride or BAC) and Carbamide peroxide (CH 6 N 2 O 3 ). [0002] The invention describes a desirable effect of the chemistry combination where the creation of Hydronium Ions are known to mediate chemical reactions by attaching themselves to the hydrophilic ends of molecules, specifically sites with partial negative charges or rich in electron density. The formation of an adduct, for steric hindrance where adding Carbamide to the existing molecular chain will form a lightly bonded bi-molecule chain making the quaternary ammonia salt larger and more difficult to penetrate the skin flora while maintaining its germicidal functionality. [0003] The described unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt composition with other ingredients has been shown to be effective in testing against E - coli, Salmonella, Pseudomonas, Listeria, H1N1, NDM1, c-Difficile Spores, Rhinovirus, MRSA and a wide range of other bacteria and viruses, molds and spores. [0004] Other additives such as scents, humectants, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, cicatrizants and hemostatic agents can be added to the chemistry combination to promote healing as well as other medicinal benefits. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0005] Hand sanitizers have been marketed and sold for decades. However, nearly all sanitizers use alcohol at a minimum of 62% concentration as both an antiseptic and a drying agent. According to Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations, a hand sanitizer should contain at least 60% alcohol by volume in order to be effective. Alcohol is harsh on the skin, and also is not recommended for use by people with diabetes as it can dramatically affect blood glucose readings. Certain religious beliefs restrict the use of alcohol on the hands and providing a non-alcohol based hand sanitizer with effective killing rates address s problem for a large community. [0006] Alcohol-free hand sanitizers are available, but their effectiveness is limited by the number of active ingredients allowed under the FDA 1974 Tentative Final Monograph. Thus, it is necessary to find an ingredient, or combination of ingredients, that can significantly enhance the allowed biocides from the Monograph. [0007] The FDA requirement for hand sanitizers must include active ingredient from a list identified in the FDA 1978 Monograph. One specific biocide listed in the Monograph is Benzalkronium Chloride (BAC) that acts as a sanitizer to disrupt the cellular membrane of micro-organisms. The biocide activity of BAC is enhanced by the action of the long chain substitutes, acting as solvents of the lipid (or other soluble) parts of the cellular membrane. This event disrupts the integrity of the cellular membrane causing the outflow of the intracellular liquid. The addition of a mineral acid as H 2 So 4 lowers the pH of the system, leading to the formation of Hydronium ions. [0008] Hydronium ions are known to mediate chemical reactions by attaching themselves to the hydrophilic ends of molecules, specifically sites with partial negative charges or rich in electron density. H+ will bond disrupting the general characteristics of the lipid while the long chain of BAC will solvate the hydrocarbon chain. [0009] In addition, the solution may contain other ingredients not listed as active by the FDA and may include but not limited to natural moisturizers such as Carbamide. The described unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt composition is compatible with different aromas and fragrances, such as Rose Water, Witch Hazel, Lavender, Lilac and is not limited by one or more volatilized chemical compounds that can be added to the solution at a very low concentration that stimulates the human olfactory senses. [0010] Carbamide is also highly water-soluble due to its ability to form multiple hydrogen bonds with the low pH hydronium ions in the chemistry composition. The natural conditioning properties of Carbamide, also called urea peroxide, urea hydrogen peroxide (UHP), and percarbamide, is an adduct of hydrogen peroxide and urea and is similar to hydrogen peroxide as an oxidizer. Carbamide has several other applications. In veterinary medicine, for instance, it is used as a topical antiseptic and a diuretic. [0011] Carbamide appears as a white crystalline solid which dissolves in water to give free hydrogen peroxide and is readily available with the solubility of commercial samples varying from 0.05 g/ml to more than 0.6 g/ml. The chemical formula is CH 6 N 2 O 3 . As a natural skin conditioner the allergic reactions by users to dyes and chemicals found in readily available alcohol based hand sanitizers is avoided. The use of low doses of Carbamide has shown to reduce the effects of acme and psoriasis on the skin without damaging side effects found in some medications. [0012] As documented in (www.wikipedia.org), “ Aloe vera is now widely used on facial tissues, where it is promoted as a moisturiser and/or anti-irritant to reduce chafing of the nose of users suffering hay-fever or cold. Aloe vera is also used for soothing the skin, and keeping the skin moist to help avoid flaky scalp and skin in harsh and dry weather. Aloe vera may also be used as a moisturizer for oily skin.” Aloe vera can be easily added to the described highly protonated, low pH, nondermathropic solution as a moisturizer. [0013] Taspine is an alkaloid extracted from trees of Croton (family Euphorbiaceae) of the western Amazon region that has been used by natives and others as a vulnerary agent when purified from the tree sap. Some testing and data suggest that taspine promotes early phases of wound healing in a dose-dependent manner with no substantial modification thereafter. Its mechanism of action is probably related to its chemotactic properties on fibroblasts and is not mediated by changes in extracellular matrix. Additionally, Taspine can be added to the described highly protonated, low pH, nondermathropic solution as a natural moisturizer and wound healing ingredient. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0014] The described invention of using a base chemistry where a high concentration of Hydronium Ions is created as a base chemistry where other ingredients described in the invention forms a composition that both reduces bacteria on the skin and a natural moisturizer with extended protection up to forty-eight hours after application to the skin. [0015] As a result, the described skin sanitizing solution both sanitizes and moisturizes the skin on contact without the addition of harsh chemicals, such as alcohol, and without the need for skin conditioning additives that may contain objectionable chemistry, dyes and perfumes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0016] The invention is an unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt composition with other ingredients that comprises a composition that is non-flammable, alcohol-free, non-stinging, highly protonated, and nondermatropic. The composition has a very high Hydronium proton count and is created by a process involving the blending of a premix that comprises a highly protonated, non-corrosive, nondermatropic Hydronium carrier and a biocide, added to a predetermined quantity of water until it dissolves. The biocide comprises one or more quaternary ammonium compounds. [0017] The described unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt composition with other ingredients comprises a blend of an inorganic acid, a sulfate, and water or a blend of organic acid, a sulfate, and water. The quaternary ammonium compound is selected from one or more of the group consisting of Benzalkonium Chloride, Cetylpyridinium Chloride, Silver Chloride adsorbed to titanium dioxide (initially notified under silver chloride), Cetalkonium chloride, Benzyldimethyl (octadecyl) ammonium chloride, Miristalkonium chloride, Dimethyldioctylammonium chloride, Hydrogen chloride/hydrocholoric acid, Silver Chloride, Dodecylguanidine monohydrochloride, Bromine chloride, Dimethyloctadecyl [3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl]ammonium chloride, Decyldimethyloctylammonium chloride, Benzyl dimethyloleylammonium chloride, Dimethyltetradecyl [3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ammonium chloride, benzylcoco alkyldimethyl chlorides, dicocoalkyl dimethyl, chlorides, bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl) dimethyl chlorides, benzyl-c8-18-alkyldimethyl chlorides, benzyl-c12-18-alkyldimethyl chlorides, di-C6-12-alkyldimethylchlorides, benzyl-c8-16-alkyldimethyl chlorides, di-c8-10-alkyldimethyl chlorides, benzyl-C10-16-alkyldimethylchlorides, Octenidine dihydrochloride di-C8-18 alkyldimethyl, chlorides, benzyl-C12-14-alkyldimethyl chlorides, C12-14-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethyl chlorides. [0018] The inorganic acid is selected from one or more of the group consisting of Sulfuric acid, Hydrochloric acid, Nitric acid, Phosphoric acid, Boric acid, Hydrofluoric acid, Hydrobromic acid. [0019] The organic acid selected from one or more of the group consisting of Lactic acid, Acetic acid, Formic acid, Citric acid, Oxalic acid, Uric acid. [0020] The solution may further comprise a skin permeation enhancer or conditioner selected from one or more of the group consisting of natural components and vitamins, minerals, urea or anti-oxidants to enhance the composition's natural skin moisturizing and protection against the spread of acme and psoriasis. [0021] A thickener may be added to make a gel formula solution. The thickener is selected from one or more of the group consisting of Xanthan gum, Alginic acid, Sodium alginate, Ammonium alginate, Calcium alginate, Propylene glycol alginate, Propane-1,2-diol alginate, Agar, Carrageenan, Processed euchuema seaweed, Furcelleran, Aribinogalactan larch gum, Locust Bean (carob gum), Oat gum, Guar gum, Tragacanth, Acadia Gum (Gum Arabic), Karaya gum, Tara Gum, Gellan gum, Sorbitol, Mannitol, Glycerol, Konjac, Konjac gum, Polyoxethylene (8) sterate, Polyoxyl 8 stearate, Polyoxyethylene (40) stearate, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20), Polysorbate 80, Polyoxethylene sorbitan mono-oleate, Polyoxethylene sorbitan monopalminate, Polysorbate 40, Tween 40, Polyxethylene sorbitan monostearate, Polysorbate 60, Tween 60, Polyoxyethylene-20-sorbitan tristearate, Polysorbate 65, Tween 65, Pectin, Amidated pectin, Gelatine, Ammonium phosphatides, Sucrose acetate isobutyrate, SAIB, Sucrose diacetate hexaisobutyrate, Glycerol esters of wood rosins, Sodium and potassium pyrophosphates, Diphosphates, Ammonium phosphate (diabasic and monobasic), Sodium and potassium triphosphate, Triphosphate, Sodium and potassium polyphosphates, Polyphosphates, Beta-cyclodextrine, Cellulose (microcrystalline and powdered), Methyl cellulose, Ethyl cellulose, Hydroxypropyl cellulose, Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, Methylethylcellulose, Carboxymethyl cellulose, Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, Crosslinked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, Sodium caseinate, Magnesium stearate, Sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids, Magnesium salts of fatty acids, Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (glyceryl monostearate, glyceryl distearate), Acetic and fatty acid esters of glycerol, Acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, Lactic and fatty acid esters of glycerol, Lactic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, Citric and fatty acid esters of glycerol, Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, Tartaric and fatty acid esters of glycerol, Tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, Diacetyltartaric and fatty acid esters of glycerol, mon- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of monoand diglycerides of fatty acids, Mixed acetic and tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, Sucrose esters of fatty acids, Sucroglycerides, Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids, Polyglycerol esters of interesterified ricinoliec acid, Propylene glycol mono- and di-esters, Propane 1,2-Diol esters of fatty acids, Lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1,2-diol, Thermally oxidized soy bean oil interacted with mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, Dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate, Sodium oleyl or stearoyl lactylate stearoyl-2-lactylate, Calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate, Stearyl tartrate, sorbitan monostearate, Sorbitan tristearate, Span 65, Sorbitan monolaurate, Span 20, Sorbitan mono-oleate, Span 80, Sorbitan monopalmitate, Span 40. [0022] The unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt created by the invention was tested by an independent laboratory and the results recorded for each microbe studied. It is important to note that alcohol based hand sanitizers with or without the active ingredient BZK does not offer the same results against MRSA, c-Diff spores, H1N1. [0000] Average Untreated Number Percent Microbe Control Recovered Reduction MRSA (30 Seconds) 1.7 × 10 5 3.3 × 10 0 99.998% MRSA (180 seconds) 1.7 × 10 5 <1.0 × 10 0   99.999% c-Diff Spores Trial 1 3.3 × 10 3  <1.00 99.97% Trial 2 3.3 × 10 3  <1.00 99.97% Trial 3 3.3 × 10 3  <1.00 99.97% Trial 4 3.3 × 10 3  <1.00 99.97% Trial 5 3.3 × 10 3  <1.00 99.97% NDM-1 Trial 1 9.6 × 10 5 <5.0 99.9995% Trial 2 9.6 × 10 5 <5.0 99.9995% Trial 3 9.6 × 10 5 <5.0 99.9995% Trial 4 9.6 × 10 5 <5.0 99.9995% Trial 5 9.6 × 10 5 <5.0 99.9995% Rhinovirus 39 6.7 × 10 5 4.8 × 10 0 99.993% Influenza A 3.1 × 10 4 <2.2 99.993% (H1N1) PRD-1 2.0 × 10 4 4.3 × 10 0 99.98% Bacteriophage E. Coli 9.10 × 10 5   <0.5 99.9999% E. Coli (Dry Test) 5.6 × 10 4 3.7 × 10 2 99.3% Salmonella 1.1 × 10 6 <0.5 99.9999% Enterica Salmonella (Dry Test) 1.6 × 10 5 1.6 × 10 2 99.9% Enterica [0023] This product is manufactured according to FDA Tentative Final Monograph (1974, 1978, 1991, 1994, 2002). All testing is performed by an independent registered laboratory, according to test methods described in AOAC Official Method 961.02 (Germicidal Spray Products as Disinfectants), ASTME 1053-97 (Standard Test Method for Efficacy of Virucidal Agents Intended for Inanimate Surfaces), and from ASTM E2111-00 (Standard Quantitative Carrier Test Method to Evaluate the Bactericidal, Fungicidal, Mycobactericidal and Sporicidal Potencies of Liquid Chemical Germicides). The FDA does not specify testing protocols for this product. Copies of full reports are available upon request. [0024] The solution also was graded minimally irritating at 2.8 (non-irritant) on the standardized Draize Test scale where 0 is non-irritating and 110 is severe/extreme where skin damage will occur. [0025] According to (wwww.wikipedia.org) the Draize Test is an acute toxicity test devised in 1944 by the Food and Drug administration (FDA) toxologists John H. Draize and Jacob M. Spines. Initially used for testing cosmetics, the procedure involves applying 0.5 mL or 0.5 g of a test substance to the eye or skin of a restrained, conscious animal, and then leaving it for set amount of time before rinsing it out and recording its effects. The animals are observed for up to 14 days for signs of erythema and edema in the skin test, and redness, swelling, discharge, ulceration, hemorrhaging, cloudiness, or blindness in the tested eye. The test subject is commonly an albino rabbit, though other species are used too, including dogs. The animals are euthanized after testing if the test renders irreversible damage to the eye or skin. Animals may be re-used for testing purposes if the product tested causes no permanent damage. Animals are typically reused after a “wash out” period during which all traces of the tested product are allowed to disperse from the test site. The FDA supports the test, stating that “to date, no single test, or battery of tests, has been accepted by the scientific community as a replacement [for] . . . the Draize test” PREFERRED EMBODIMENT [0026] One embodiment of the invention consists of the use of the described unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt composition with other ingredients which are fully incorporated herein by reference, as the Ionic Carrier premix. In this embodiment, 10 grams of the described highly protonated, low pH, nondermathropic solution are blended in a 1:2 ratio with water, by weight. This blend is then added to 5.5 grams of Benzalkonium Chloride, mixed with 3 grams of Urea, and 481.5 grams of water. [0027] The amount of thickener can vary, depending upon the final intended use. 0.5% to 1% xanthan gum gives a good consistency for a hand gel. The formula is a composition, which is a highly protonated, supercharged, non-corrosive liquid proton suspending composition. [0028] The manufacturing process to create the described unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt with is well known and beginning as early as the 1980's various chemists and inventors have experimented with the nature of this reaction of adding acid to the water. Generally speaking, these reactions and resulting compounds have lacked stability and the manufacturing process was extremely expensive for commercialization. [0029] However, this invention has created a compound reaction of the several elements for making the described unsubstituted quaternary ammonium salt composition with other ingredients of adding sulfuric acid of at least 88% purity in a controlled manner to water while vigorously stirring and agitating said solution to control the temperature of the exothermic reaction. [0030] It should be understood that the preceding is merely a detailed description of one or more embodiments of this invention and that numerous changes to the disclosed embodiments can be made in accordance with the disclosure herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The preceding description, therefore, is not meant to limit the scope of the invention. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be determined only by the appended claims and their equivalents.
A water based, alcohol-free, skin sanitizing solution with a natural skin softener, where the nature of the biocidal enhancer used in the process of making the solution significantly increases efficacy while simultaneously enabling much more economical manufacturing, processing and transportation of the product. Because it is water based, no further moisturizing additives are required, and those with sensitive skin, diabetes, allergies or religious beliefs are able to use the product without concern.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a divisional of Ser. No. 12/442,382 filed Mar. 8, 2008, which is an application under 35 U.S.C. §371 of PCT/US2008/060129 filed Apr. 11, 2008, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 60/911,721 filed Apr. 13, 2007, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH STATEMENT This invention was made with the government support under Grant No: EEC-0118007 awarded by the National Science Foundation. The government has certain rights in the invention. REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX Not applicable. FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the invention relate generally to the field of nanoparticle compositions. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to nanoparticle compositions that include tetraalkylammonium compounds. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION With the liquid-phase synthesis routes for nanoparticles of controlled compositions and uniform particle sizes well established, attention has now turned towards control of nanoparticle shape. Up to now tetrapod-shaped crystals with dimensions on the nanometer and micrometer scale have been synthesized for a variety of II-VI semiconductors including ZnO, CdS, CdTe, and CdSe. CdTe tetrapod-shaped nanocrystals have previously been synthesized using CdO as the cadmium precursor in oleic acid (OA)-trioctylphosphine (TOP) system or in a mixture of surfactant of octadecylphosphinic acid (ODPA) and the trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO)-TOP system, respectively. The hot injection route—in which molecular precursors are introduced rapidly into a hot ligand-containing organic solvent—was pioneered by Murray et al. (1993 J. Am. Chem. Soc. 115:8706) for the synthesis of photoluminescent CdSe and other metal non-oxide nanoparticles, collectively called quantum dots (sometimes referred to as “QDs”). Quantum dots with rod, rice-like, tetrapod, branched, hollow-shell, and other shapes can be synthesized, though high shape selectivity and size uniformity remain difficult to achieve for nanoparticles with more complicated shapes and compositions. We note that nearly all hot-injection methods for synthesizing non-spherical quantum dots involve alkylphosphonates (e.g., hexylphosphonics, tetradecylphosphonic, and octadecylphosphonic acids) as a second ligand at high concentrations. They are thought to bind to certain quantum dot faces preferentially and sufficiently to modify growth kinetics, unlike other electron-rich ligands (i.e., phosphine oxide, phosphine, amine, and carboxylate head groups). Unfortunately, hot injection routes using alkylphosphonates do not produce CdSe tetrapods with high selectivity and the phosphonic acid ligands that are used by these methods are exorbitantly expensive. A method that provides a more cost effective route to nanoscale particles would be useful. A method that also provides improved shape-selectivity, particularly for CdSe tetrapods, would also be useful. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the methods described herein are directed to the synthesis of nanoparticle tetrapods in high yield, which are otherwise very difficult to synthesize in high yield with reproducibility. Certain embodiments of the method are particularly suitable for synthesizing cadmium selenide tetrapods. The method is easy to carry out experimentally, is environmentally friendly and economically viable, making it particularly useful for the scaled up synthesis of tetrapods. Methods described herein may also be applicable for the synthesis of nanoparticle shapes of other compositions, which may bring advantages to the areas of catalysis such as petroleum refining, chemicals production, and environmental cleanup, or in the electronics industry for printable circuitry, and sensors. Thus, in one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a method of making non-spherical nanoparticles, comprising (a) combining under reaction conditions a source of a Group 12, 13, 14, or 15 metal or metalloid; a source of a Group 15 or 16 element; and a source of a quaternary ammonium compound or phosphonium compound; and (b) isolating non-spherical nanoparticles from the resulting reaction mixture. In another aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a method of making other non-spherical nanoparticle compositions. For example, non-spherical nanoparticle compositions may be prepared by combining a source of a desired metal element with a desired non-metal source or metalloid source in the presence of an ammonium or phosphonium compound. Some typical non-spherical nanoparticles compositions include metal oxides and metal chalcogenides. Particular embodiments employ a source of a transition metal from any of Groups 3-11 of the Periodic Table, more particularly metals of Groups 6-9. Exemplary non-spherical nanoparticle compositions include oxides and chalcogenides of iron and tungsten. Of course, higher order compositions such as ternary and quaternary compositions may be prepared by including more than one metal and/or non-metal sources. For example, some envisioned compositions include bimetallic oxides including, for example, iron, tungsten and oxygen. Other compositions that include two or more metalloid or nonmetal elements such as CuInSe 2 or CdSe x Te 1-x may also be prepared. In other embodiments, non-spherical nanoparticles of a single element may be obtained. In such embodiments, a source of the desired element is combined with a source of the ammonium or phosphonium compound under suitable reaction conditions and thereafter the non-spherical nanoparticle composition of the single element is isolated. Metals from Groups 9 to 12, particularly Groups 10 and 11, more particularly Pd, Pt, Ag, and Ag, most particularly Au, can be used to provide non-spherical compositions of a single element. The source of quaternary ammonium compound generally have the formula [(R 1 R 2 R 3 R 4 + )A] a (X −i ) n wherein each of R1-R4 is individually selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C1-C20 linear, branched or cyclic alkyl group or a C6-C20 aryl group, and a C4-C20 linear, branched or cyclic diene; A represents nitrogen or phosphorous; and X is a halide or other suitable anion such as but not limited to a polyatomic anion like sulfate, phosphate, nitrate or carbonate. Of course the relative molar amounts of the anion will be selected such that a=i×n to maintain charge balance of the compound. In particular embodiments, each of R 1 -R 4 is an alkyl group. Some preferred embodiments asymmetrical means that at least one of the R 1 -R 4 alkyl groups is different from the other alkyl groups. One such class of asymmetrical quaternary ammonium compounds is the cetyltrimethylammonium halides, particularly cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. Another class of such compounds is represented by the didodecyldimethylammonium halides, particularly didodecyldimethylammonium bromide. In some embodiments, mono-, di-, or tri-alkyl ammonium halides may be used. One skilled in the art will readily recognize the corresponding phosphonium counterpart compounds. The metal or metalloid can be any Group 12-15 element. In some methods the metal or metalloid is zinc, cadmium, mercury, gallium, indium, thallium, germanium, tin, lead, antimony, bismuth or a combination thereof. Cadmium is preferred in some embodiments. The metal or metalloid can be provided by any convenient means. Typically, however, the metal or metalloid is provided by a precursor solution, preferably a precursor solution derived for a metal or metalloid oxide source. Any Group 15 or 16 element may be selected for use in the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the group 15 or 16 element is selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, phosphorous, arsenic, oxygen, sulfur, selenium, tellurium, and combinations thereof. In particular embodiments, sulfur, selenium, or tellurium is preferred. Selenium is most preferred for some embodiments. While the components may be combined in any order and by any method, some useful embodiments combine the source of the Group 15 or 16 element and the source of a quaternary ammonium compound to form an intermediate mixture. Thereafter, the intermediate mixture is combined with the source of selected metal or metalloid. Thus, in one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the method of making non-spherical nanoparticles includes (a) combining a source of a Group 12, 13, 14, or 15 metal or metalloid and a source of a Group 15 or 16 element to form an intermediate composition; (b) combining the intermediate composition with and a source of a quaternary ammonium compound or phosphonium compound to form a resulting reaction mixture; and (c) isolating non-spherical nanoparticles from the resulting reaction mixture. In a particular embodiment, the method of making a non-spherical nanoparticle composition, includes (a) heating a source of a Group 12, 13, 14, or 15 metal or metalloid in the presence of an acid to provide a metal or metalloid precursor; (b) reacting a source of a Group 15 or 16 element with the metal or metalloid precursor; and a source of a quaternary ammonium compound or phosphonium compound to form a reaction mixture; to form an intermediate composition; (c) heating the intermediate composition in the presence of a quaternary ammonium compound or phosphonium compound; (d) isolating non-spherical nanoparticles from the resulting reaction mixture. In certain methods tetrapod-shaped nanoparticles are envisioned and usually preferred. As used herein the term “tetrapod” or “tetrapod-shaped” will be understood by those skilled in the art to mean particles having four arm-like portions formed by the group 12-15 metal or metalloid and the Group 15-16 element. The four arms are generally disposed about a central region of intersection. The arms are generally, but not strictly, disposed in a tetrahedral configuration about the central region. In other embodiments the method may be characterized as providing a composition wherein non-spherical nanoparticles that comprise at least 75-100 number percent of the nanoparticle products isolated from the reaction mixture. Preferably, the non-spherical nanoparticles comprise tetrapod-shaped nanoparticles. Some embodiments of the methods are able to provide at least about 80, at least about 85, at least about 90, at least about 95, or greater than 99 number percent of non-spherical nanoparticles, preferably tetrapod-shaped nanoparticles. Selectivities for non-spherical nanoparticles may be in the range of 80-90 number percent, or 90-100 number percent in some embodiments. The term “selectivity” is used synonymously with “number percent” for the purposes of this application. Thus in another aspect, the invention includes a non-spherical nanoparticle composition that comprises the reaction product of a source of a Group 12, 13, 14, or 15 metal or metalloid; a source of a Group 15 or 16 element; and a source of a quaternary ammonium compound or phosphonium compound; the composition comprises at least 75 percent (by number) of the nanoparticle products. Such nanoparticle products comprised of essentially the Group 12-15 metal or metalloid and the Group 15-16 element. The nanoparticles of the composition may also include surface ligands such as the quaternary ammonium or phosphonium compounds or remnants thereof in some cases. Regardless of the method by which the composition is made, another aspect of the invention includes a composition of non-spherical nanoparticles, wherein the particles comprise: (a) a Group 12, 13, 14, or 15 metal or metalloid and (b) a Group 15 or 16 element; and wherein at least 75 percent of the nanoparticles are tetrapods. The composition may include any of the above-described group 12-15 metal or metalloids and Group 15 or 16 elements or combinations thereof. Particles comprising cadmium and sulfur, selenium, or tellurium are particularly preferred, with selenium being most preferred. In some compositions, the nanoparticle tetrapods comprise at least about 80, at least about 85, at least about 90, at least about 95 or at least about 99 percent or more of the nanoparticle products of the composition. In some embodiments, the methods and compositions described herein are characterized by particles having defined sizes. One measure of size is the average arm length of the tetrapod particles. In some embodiments, the tetrapods have an arm length ranging from about 5 to about 200 or more nanometers. Other compositions comprise particles with a lower limit on the arm length of about 7.5 nm, about 10 nm, about 15 nm, about 20 nm, about 25 nm, about 50 nm, about 75 nm, about 100 nm, about 150 nm or about 175 nm The upper limit of arm length for some particles in the compositions included herein may be about 10 nm, about 20 nm, about 25 nm, about 50 nm, about 75 nm, about 100 nm, about 150 nm, about 175 nm, about 180 nm, about 185 nm about 190, or about 200 nm. Arm lengths may generally be controlled by selection of proportionate amounts of starting materials. Another measure of the size of the particles is the width of the tetrapod arms. Generally, the width of the arms is less than their length. Typical arm widths range from about 2 nm to about 10 nm, particularly about 2 nm to about 5 nm. Arm length and width are determined from tunneling electron microscope (TEM) or other suitable microscope images. Some methods and compositions provide nanoparticles that are of substantially uniform size. The term substantially the same size means that the average arm length or width has an acceptable standard deviation. Typically, the standard deviation on the arm length of the particles is less than about 50 percent of the average arm length. In other embodiments, the standard deviation of the arm length is less than 40 percent, less than 35 percent, less than 30 percent, less than 25 percent, less than 20 percent, less than 15 percent, less than 10 percent, or less than 5 percent of the average arm length. Preferred compositions generally have a standard deviation of less than 20 percent, more preferably less than 15 percent, of the average arm length. The use of the large class of ammonium compounds enables our invention. These compounds replace the toxic phosphonic acids, which are used in the conventional methods. This approach is experimentally safe and relatively easier to perform. There are no reports of these compounds for hot-injection nanoparticle synthesis. Ammonium and phosphonium compounds are a non-obvious choice as reagents for nanoparticle synthesis, because all other ligands currently used are thought to bind to nanoparticles through coordination/covalent bonds. Ammonium and phosphonium compounds are incapable of covalent bonding. Our results suggest that charge interactions are occurring instead. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates representative TEM images of CdSe tetrapods synthesized with (a) CTAB and (d) DDAB; and (g) spherical CdSe QDs synthesized without any quaternary ligand where the particles were recovered 1 min after injection; the insets show higher magnification of individual tetrapod particles; histograms of tetrapod arm width and length distributions for tetrapods synthesized with (b,c) CTAB and (e,f) DDAB, respectively, (h) particle diameter histogram for spherical CdSe QDs, and (i) TEM image of CdSe tetrapods synthesized with CTAB through the slow-decomposition method, and recovered after 1 hr at 300° C.; all scale bars are 20 nm. FIG. 2 illustrates XRD patterns of CdSe tetrapods synthesized with (i) CTAB and (ii) DDAB; and (iii) spherical CdSe QDs synthesized without any quaternary ligand; diffraction peaks for the wurtzite and zinc blende (cubic ZnS) crystal structures of CdSe are shown as thin (gray) and thick (black) lines, respectively. FIG. 3 illustrates pattern of CdSe QDs prepared with 1/12th of the original Se/CTAB precursor amount used for the tetrapod sample of FIGS. 1 a and 2 (curve i). FIG. 4 illustrates representative TEM image of CdSe QDs synthesized with ten times the CTAB amount used for the tetrapod sample of FIG. 1 a where the particles were recovered 1 min after injection and the inset shows higher magnification of an individual tetrapod particle; the scale bar is 50 nm. FIG. 5 illustrates TEM images of ZnSe QDs synthesized (a) with and (b) without DDAB; PbSe QDs synthesized (c) with and (d) without DDAB; and CdS QDs synthesized (e) with and (f) without DDAB where the particles were recovered 1 min after injection; all scale bars are 10 nm. FIG. 6 illustrates representative TEM images of shaped CdSe QDs, synthesized with (a) tetradecylammonium bromide and (b) tetrabutylammonium bromide where the particles were recovered 1 min after injection; all scale bars are 20 nm. FIG. 7 illustrates UV-vis absorbance (light or dark gray) and photoluminescence spectra (black) of CdSe tetrapods synthesized with (i) CTAB and (ii) DDAB; and (iii) spherical CdSe QDs synthesized without any quaternary ligand where the particles were recovered 1 min after injection. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Abbreviations CTAB cetyltrimethylammonium bromide DDAB didodecyldimethylammonium bromide OA oleic acid ODE octadecene QD quantum dot TEM tunnelling electron microscope TOP trioctylphosphine XRD x-ray diffraction We report, for the first time, that quaternary ammonium compounds can be used to induce shape formation in quantum dot synthesis and that CdSe tetrapod quantum dots with uniform arm lengths can be synthesized with high selectivity using quaternary ammonium or phosphonium salt compounds. Such “quats” have a cationic structure in which ligand groups surround the nitrogen or phosphorous center. Ammonium and phosphonium quats differ substantially from phosphonate and other electron-rich ligands in that the head group of the quat has a cationic structure containing an electron poor nitrogen or phosphorous atom. This fundamental difference affects the formation of quantum dots and can provide a means to control particle shape. Thus, we modified the synthesis method for spherical CdSe quantum dots, in which trioctylphosphine selenide (Se precursor) is injected into an octadecene solution of cadmium oleate (prepared from CdO and oleic acid). The quat was introduced into the synthesis by combining it with the Se solution prior to injection at 300° C. The toluene was used to solubilize the quat, and so care was needed to avoid uncontrolled boiling of the reaction volume. The particles were grown at 280° C. and recovered and washed with acetone. Size-selective precipitation was not carried out. The CdSe QDs were unexpectedly found to be tetrapod-shaped when the synthesis was carried out in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide ( FIG. 1 a ). Tetrapods accounted for 90% of the 500 particles analyzed and the balance was mainly single rods, bipods, and tripods. Defined as the percentage of all observed nanoparticles identified to be tetrapods, the selectivity was 90%. No spherical particles were detected. The mean average arm length and width were 10.9 nm (relative standard deviation=14.0%) and 3.4 nm (15.0%), respectively ( FIG. 1 b,c ). The dimensions of the fourth arm (pointing out of the images and observed as the higher-contrast center) could not be quantified. Replacing cetyltrimethylammonium bromide with didodecyldimethylammonium bromide, we found that the resultant QDs were also tetrapodal in shape, with a selectivity of 90% ( FIG. 1 d ). With assumed Gaussian size distributions, these particles had a mean average arm length and width of 7.4 nm (13.5%) and 3.2 nm (12.0%), respectively ( FIG. 1 e,f ). Without having to perform selective precipitation, we found that these as-synthesized CdSe tetrapods display higher selectivity towards the tetrapod shape and more uniform dimensions than those previously described. For comparison, we carried out the QD synthesis without using any quats but kept the toluene in the Se precursor solution. Spherical QDs with a mean average diameter of 5.6 nm (10.8%) resulted, indicating that toluene was not responsible for the tetrapod shape ( FIG. 1 g,h ). The monodispersity of these particles could be improved by replacing the toluene co-solvent with a higher-boiling point solvent that can solubilize the quat ligands (thereby allowing for a more rapid injection). Both tetrapod materials contained the CdSe wurtzite phase as the spherical QDs, according to x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis ( FIG. 2 ). The more intense and narrow diffraction peak at 28=25° tetrapod arms lengthened in the c-axis direction of the wurtzite phase, as others have found for II-VI tetrapods, Scherrer analysis of the (002) wurtzite peak indicated grain sizes of 7 and 8 nm, respectively, for the cetyltri-methylammonium bromide and didodecyldimethylammonium bromide-derived samples. XRD grain sizes and average TEM particle sizes are volume-weighted and number-weighted averages, respectively, and so a direct comparison of these values to determine the presence of internal defects (i.e., stacking faults and twinning boundaries) cannot be done. For the spherical QDs ( FIG. 1 g ), analysis of the 28 peaks of 24°, of 7.0, 7.7, and 7.9 nm, respectively. Through the “slow decomposition” synthesis approach to nanoparticles, we found the Se/quat precursor can be combined in one container with the Cd precursor solution and carefully heated to generate the tetrapods. By heating to 300° C. at a ramp rate of 10° C./min and holding at 300° C. for 1 hr, CdSe tetrapods with longer arms (˜10-40 nm) were synthesized (Fig. Ii). The tetrapods were less uniform in size and shape, though, and spherical QDs were also formed. The selectivity was estimated to be 8%, and the arm width and arm length were in the ranges of 2.1-3.8 nm and 16-26 nm, respectively. A sudden color change in the reaction medium was observed during the heat ramp at 140° C., indicating initiation of particle nucleation. Nucleation likely continued during the heat ramp, leading to the non-uniform tetrapods and spherical QDs. Alivisatos and co-workers theorized that phosphonate-assisted QD tetrapod formation is the result of nucleation of zinc blende particles followed by surface-initiated growth of wurtzite arms. High tetrapod selectivities result from the nucleation of zinc blende-only nanoparticles followed by growth of wurtzite-only arms, as in the case of CdTe tetrapods. The cohesive energy difference between the two polymorphs of CdTe is sufficiently large (˜10 meV) for zinc blende (and not wurzite) particles to nucleate, and small enough to allow for the wurtzite phase to grow off the zinc blende nanoparticle surfaces. By extension, low selectivities result from the nucleation of both zinc blende and wurtzite phases. The theory thus suggests that it is inherently difficult to synthesize CdSe tetrapods with high selectivities, since CdSe has a smaller energy difference between its two phases (<1 meV). The high selectivity to CdSe tetrapods with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide or didodecyldimethylammonium bromide ligands suggested the nucleation of zinc blende-only CdSe nanoparticles as one possible mode of formation ( FIG. 3 ). To gather evidence for this, we attempted to recover the NP products at very short synthesis times. We were unsuccessful, thus we sought to separate nucleation from arm growth by significantly reducing the amount of injected Se/quat precursor. The resultant particles had the zinc blende phase, consistent with CdSe nanoparticles nucleating in the zinc blende phase ( FIG. 3 ). The observation that ligands can modify the crystal structure of nuclei is consistent with previous reports. To gain insight into the structure-directing role of the quats, we explored the effects of quat concentration and quat molecular structure. Increasing cetyltrimethylammonium bromide concentrations led to decreased tetrapod selectivity (down to 30%) in some optimum quat amount that maximizes nucleation of the zinc blende phase and, therefore, CdSe tetrapod selectivity. These particles were detected to be of the wurtzite phase via XRD analysis. The tetrapod arms were shaped-like petals instead of rods with increased quat amount, indicative of the ligand modifying the growth of the arms. It is presumed that the mode of ligand-particle interaction is electrostatic in nature, because of the cationic nature of the quat head group. We explored the synthesis of QDs of other compositions using didodecyldimethylammonium bromide, and found that the ligand caused a definite change in particle morphology ( FIG. 5 ). Although the tetrapod shape was not formed, the ZnSe, PbSe, and CdS particles were more faceted relative to particles synthesized without the quat. The faceted shapes were reasonably uniform, indicating that quats can be optimized for nanoparticle shape control for various compositions. There was also significant particle morphology change when symmetric quats (with four equivalent alkyl groups, R=methyl, butyl, octyl, or decyl groups) were tested as ligands. These also led to CdSe tetrapods, but the selectivities decreased significantly. Irregularly shaped QDs (not classifiable as spheres, rods, bipods, tripods, or tetrapods) made up about 50% of the particle population ( FIG. 6 ). These quats modified the particle formation pathway to yield non-spherical, non-uniform CdSe quantum dots, confirming the shape-inducing role of the head group and the importance of quat asymmetry (found in cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and didodecyldimethylammonium bromide) for CdSe tetrapod shape control. The molecular details of how the quats participate in CdSe zinc blende nucleation and wurtzite arm growth are not yet known, and are the subject of ongoing studies. One possibility is that quats are not active for shape control but that quat degradation products are. Unlike other ligands, quats are known to be susceptible to thermal decomposition via reverse Menschutkin reaction and Hofmann elimination, yielding trialkylamines, HCl, alkenes, and alkyl halides as possible decomposition products. To determine if such compounds play a role in CdSe tetrapod formation, we carried out QD syntheses using trioctylamine, HCl, and a trioctylamine/HCl mixture. Trioctylamine led to spherical CdSe QDs and the other two syntheses led to irregularly shaped particles, indicating that quat decomposition products can modify particle shape but do not lead to CdSe tetrapod formation. In summary, QD shape control through the use of quats is demonstrated for the first time. The surfactant ligands of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and didodecyldimethylammonium bromide lead to the formation of CdSe tetrapods with unprecedented high shape selectivity and size uniformity, as established through rigorous TEM analysis. Quats with other structures lead to non-spherical particles, with the faceting the probable result of charge interactions between the quat head group and particle surface. A deeper understanding of these charge interactions and the quat molecular structure effect would lead to greater shape control for a variety of compositions. The use of quats eliminates both the selective precipitation as a purification step and the more costly alkylphosphonate ligands for inducing non-spherical shapes. This new synthesis method offers the important advantages of greener chemistry and scalability, which can further the development of tetrapod-based photovoltaic and electronic devices. Specific illustrative Examples are set out below, but are not intended to be limiting. Example 1 A cadmium precursor solution was prepared by heating 0.103 g of CdO (0.8 mmol, 99.99 percent, all chemicals by SIGMA-ALDRICH™ unless indicated otherwise) in 20 ml of octadecene (“ODE,” 90 percent) containing 2.825 g of oleic acid (“OA,” 10 mmol, 90 percent) to 140° C. under argon atmosphere, at which the mixture turned clear and colorless. The Cd solution was cooled to room temperature. The selenium precursor solution was prepared by combining 0.032 g Se metal (0.4 mmol, 99.999 percent) with 1.5 ml of trioctylphosphine (TOP, 90 percent) liquid, and then combined with 2 ml of a toluene solution of the quaternary ammonium compound (0.05 mmol). The quats studied were cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (98 percent), didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (98 percent), tetramethylammonium bromide (99 percent, FLUKA CHEMIKA™), tetrabutylammonium bromide (99 percent, FLUKA CHEMIKA™), tetraoctylammonium bromide, and tetradecylammonium bromide (99 percent, FLUKA CHEMIKA™). The Cd solution was heated at a rate of 10° C./min to 300° C., at which point the Se/quat solution was injected within 6 sec. Caution should be exercised as injecting too rapidly leads to violent boiling of the reaction volume. Example 2 The cadmium precursor solution ([Cd]=0.8 mM, [oleic acid]=10 mM) was prepared by heating 0.103 g of CdO (99.99 percent) in 20 ml of octadecene (“ODE,” 90 percent) containing 2.825 g of oleic acid (“OA,” 90 percent) to ˜140° C., at which the mixture turned clear and colorless. The Cd solution was then cooled to room temperature. The selenium precursor solution ([Se]=0.4 mM) was prepared by combining 0.032 g Se metal (99.999 percent) with 1.5 ml of trioctylphosphine (TOP, 90 percent) liquid, and then combined with 2 ml of a toluene solution (0.05 mM) of the quaternary ammonium compound (98 percent). The Cd solution was heated at a rate of 10° C./min to 300° C., at which point the Se/quat solution was injected in 6 sec. Caution should be exercised because injecting too rapidly leads to violent boiling of the reaction volume. The synthesis was carried out under argon flow. The reaction temperature dropped to ˜280° C. and held at this temperature. Withdrawn aliquots were immediately cooled in a room-temperature water bath. The resultant nanoparticles were recovered by precipitation using acetone, centrifuged and washed with acetone at least 3 times, and then re-dispersed in toluene. Example 3 The slow decomposition method was used. In this method the Se/cetyltrimethylammonium bromide solution was combined with a cooled Cd precursor solution and heated slowly to 300° C. at the rate of 10° C./min. The reaction flask was kept at 300° C. for 1 hr once the temperature was reached. In the synthesis of zinc blende CdSe QDs, 1/12th of the Se/cetyltrimethylammonium bromide precursor solution was used in otherwise identical hot-injection synthesis conditions. Withdrawn aliquots were immediately cooled in a room-temperature water bath. The resultant nanoparticles were recovered by precipitation using acetone, centrifuged and washed with acetone at least 3 times, and then re-dispersed in toluene. Comparative Example 4 In the control experiment using trioctylamine, the ligand (0.05 mmol) was combined with toluene (2 ml) and TOPSe solution (0.032 g of Se metal in 1.5 ml of TOP). In the experiment using HCl, an aqueous solution of HCl (1 ml, 1N) was added to the Cd precursor solution (0.8 mmol of CdO, 20 ml of ODE, and 2.825 g of OA) in a three-neck flask. This mixture was carefully heated to 300° C., after which the TOPSe solution (0.032 g of Se metal in 1.5 ml of trioctylphosphine) was injected. For the HCl/trioctylamine experiment, the ligand was injected along with the TOPSe into the HCl/Cd precursor mixture. Growth was maintained at 280° C. Caution should be exercised as heating of the HCl-containing flask can lead to violent boiling of the reaction volume. Examples 5 In the synthesis of ZnSe QDs, the zinc precursor solution was prepared by heating 1 mmol (0.0813 g) of zinc (II) oxide (99.7 percent, Strem chemicals) in ODE (20 ml) containing OA (2.825 g) to 250° C. under argon atmosphere, at which the mixture turned clear and colorless. In the synthesis of PbSe QDs, the lead precursor solution was prepared by heating 1 mmol (0.223 g) of lead (II) oxide (99.99 percent) in ODE (20 ml) containing 10 mmol of OA (2.825 g) to ˜200° C. mixture turned clear and colorless. The selenium precursor solution was prepared by combining 0.039 g of Se powder (0.5 mmol) with TOP (1.5 ml), and then with a toluene solution (2 ml) of didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (0.05 mmol). The solution was heated further to 300° C. at the rate of 10° C./min, after which the Se/didodecyldimethylammonium bromide precursor solution was injected. Example 6 In the synthesis of CdS QDs, the cadmium precursor solution was prepared by heating 1 mmol (0.128 g) of CdO in ODE (20 ml) containing OA (2.825 g) to 140° C. under argon atmosphere, at which the mixture turned clear and colorless. The sulfur precursor solution was prepared by combining 0.016 g of S powder (0.5 mmol, 99.98 percent with TOP (1.5 ml), and then with a toluene solution (2 ml) of didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (0.05 mmol). The solution was heated further to 300° C. at the rate of 10° C./min, after which the S/didodecyldimethylammonium bromide precursor solution was injected. Withdrawn aliquots were cooled and precipitated with acetone, and washed at least thrice with acetone. The precipitated nanoparticles were then redispersed in toluene. Comparative Example 7 As a control experiment, we carried out the quantum dot synthesis without using any quats, but kept the toluene in the Se precursor solution. Spherical quantum dots with an average diameter of 5.6 nm (10.8 percent) resulted, indicating that toluene, which is not normally used in quantum dot synthesis, was not responsible for the tetrapod shape ( FIG. 1 c ). The quantum yield of the spherical quantum dots (15.2 percent) was much higher than that of tetrapods (0.30 percent and 0.12 percent for cetyltrimethylammonium bromide- and didodecyldimethylammonium bromide-derived samples, respectively). Example 8 Characterization Methods The size and shape of the as-synthesized nanoparticles were examined using a JEOL 2010 high resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) operated at 200 kV with a spatial resolution of 0.17 nm. UV-visible absorbance and fluorescence (or photoluminescence, PL) data were acquired at room temperature using a Shimadzu UV-visible spectrophotometer (UV-2401PC model) and a SPEX fluorimeter (Fluoromax-3 model), respectively. The PL spectra were collected between 400 and 750 nm using an excitation wavelength of 380 nm. Quantum yield (QY) analysis was performed using Rhodamine 6G in water as the standard (QY=95 percent) and an excitation wavelength of 488 nm. QY calculations described by Jobin Yvon Ltd. (See for example, http://www.jobinyvon.com/usadivisions/fluorescence/applications/quantumyieldstrad.pd f) were followed. Particle size analysis of TEM images was carried out using ImageJ (Version 1.33, NIH) software, on 500 sizes of 0.5 nm, such that nanoparticles in the range of 3.5±0.25 nm were counted to have a size of 3.5 nm, for example. For x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, the recovered particles were dispersed in toluene, deposited on a clean glass slide, and left to dry. A Rigaku Ultima II vertical Θ-Θ powder diffractometer using Cu Kα radiation (A=1.5418) with Bragg-Brentano para-focusing optics was used. Example 9 Changes in the injection and growth temperatures have a significant effect on the morphology and the optical properties of the as-prepared CdSe tetrapods. The injection temperature is the temperature of the reaction flask prior to injection of the selenium precursor; the growth temperature is the temperature of the reaction flask after this injection. With decreasing temperatures, the CdSe tetrapod arms become longer and narrower (Table A). Also, the selectivity to CdSe tetrapods decreases. The injection/synthesis temperatures of 160/130° C. are too low for the particles to form. The growth temperature is set 20 or 30° C. below the injection temperature; any growth temperature that is lower than the injection temperature should lead to similar trends. TABLE A Effect of injection and synthesis temperatures on tetrapod properties at a synthesis time of 1 minute Injection/synthesis temp (° C.) Arm length nm Arm width nm Selectivity % 300/280 10.9 3.4 90 280/250 10.92 3.06 88 250/220 14.09 2.59 89 220/190 17.6 2.1 95 190/160 18.2 2 93 160/130 n/a n/a 20 With increasing synthesis time, it is observed that the tetrapod selectivity decreases (Table B) at all injection/synthesis temperatures except 160/130° C. In contrast, the selectivity improves with time for 160/130° C. TABLE B Effect of synthesis times on tetrapod selectivity at different injection and synthesis temperatures. Injection/synthesis temperatures (° C.} Synthesis times Selectivity % 300/280  1 min 90  5 min 74 15 min 53 30 min 46 60 min 8 280/250  1 min 88  5 min 78 15 min 58 30 min 38 60 min 3 250/220  1 min 89  5 min 76 15 min 65 30 min 35 60 min 10 220/190  1 min 95  5 min 90 15 min 82 30 min 79 60 min 71 190/160  1 min 93  5 min 88 15 min 85 30 min 80 60 min 74 160/130  1 min 20  5 min 32 15 min 45 30 min 56 Using different Cd:Se precursor ratios led to the formation of CdSe tetrapods (Table C). No trends in arm length or width were observed. The 2:1 system exhibited the highest selectivity (93%). The other systems exhibited lower selectivities, based on the transmission electron microscopy results; quantification was not performed. TABLE C Effect of Cd:Se precursor ratio on tetrapod selectivity. Cd:Se ratio Arm length nm Arm width nm Selectivity % 2:1 18.2 2 93 1:1 12.9 2.59 n/a 4:1 7.8 2.38 n/a 1:2 12.9 1.86 n/a The CdSe tetrapod synthesis method was modified from a single injection of TOPSe/CTAB precursor solution to multiple injections of smaller volumes of the TOPSe/CTAB precursor solution. This modification showed the tetrapod arms grew in length and width significantly with every injection. The tetrapod selectivity values ranged from ˜70-90%. TABLE D CdSe tetrapod properties at different precursor injection numbers Injection Injection Synthesis Arm length Arm width Selectivity number time (min) time (min) nm nm % 1 0 1 10.11 3.3 89 2 5 6 16.82 3.4 87 3 10 11 22.35 3.8 79 4 15 16 28.6 4.6 82 5 20 21 38.5 6.6 72 The above-described examples demonstrate that the CdSe quantum dots were tetrapod-shaped when the synthesis was carried out in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. The tetrapods accounted for 90 percent of the 500 particles analyzed, with the balance comprised of single rods, bipods, and tripods. No spherical particles were detected. The average arm length and width were 10.9 nm (relative standard deviation=14.0 percent) and 3.4 nm (15.0 percent), respectively. The dimensions of the fourth arm (pointing out of the image and observed as the higher-contrast center) could not be quantified ( FIG. 2 ). Even without selective precipitation, the CdSe tetrapods were synthesized with higher shape selectivity and dimensional uniformity than previously reported. It has been speculated that CdSe tetrapods (with a zinc blende center and wurtzite arms) are difficult to synthesize because the small energy difference between the crystal phases leads to limited phase control, and therefore low size and shape uniformity. While not wishing to be held to a particular theory, it is believed that the quats lead to the nucleation of just zinc blende CdSe seeds on which the four wurtzite arms grow, resulting in high selectivity for tetrapods. The nucleation and growth kinetics of the tetrapods are thought to be too rapid for particle recovery at the shortest synthesis times. Thus to moderate arm growth, the amount of injected Se/quat precursor is reduced and the synthesis is carried out under the same conditions. Indeed, the resultant particles are found to have the zinc blende phase ( FIG. 5 ). They are sphere-like particles, suggestive of zinc blende CdSe seeds prior to arm growth. The electronic structure of tetrapods is more complex than that of their spherical counterpart, making interpretation of their optical spectra difficult. The CTAB-derived tetrapods had an absorbance spectrum shape similar to reported spectra of CdSe and CdTe tetrapods. The first absorption peak was located at 597 nm, and the second peak was at ˜497 nm. Unusually, the photoluminescence (PL) peak was centered at 595 nm ( FIG. 7 , curve i), suggesting that these tetrapods exhibit particle size-dependent quantum yields like CdSe QDs. The measured quantum yields of the tetrapods (0.30% and 0.12% for CTAB- and DDAB-derived samples, respectively) were lower than that of the spherical QDs (15.2%), consistent with previous reports. The absorbance of DDAB-tetrapods was different from that of CTAB-tetrapods, in which the first and second absorbance peaks were located closely to one another (610 and 574 nm, FIG. S 3 , curve ii), resembling the spectrum reported by Mohamed et al. These authors attributed the higher-wavelength peak to the zinc blende core diameter and the other peak to arm length. For CdTe tetrapods, Alivisatos and co-workers reported that optical absorbance was dependent on arm width and not arm length. Further studies are being carried out. In summary, QD shape control through the use of quats is demonstrated for the first time. The surfactant ligands of CTAB and DDAB lead to the formation of CdSe tetrapods with unprecedented high shape selectivity and size uniformity, as established through rigorous TEM analysis. Quats with other structures lead to non-spherical particles, with the faceting the probable result of charge interactions between the quat head group and particle surface. A deeper understanding of these charge interactions and the quat molecular structure effect will lead to greater shape control for a variety of compositions. The use of quats eliminates both the selective precipitation as a purification step and the more costly alkylphosphonate ligands for inducing non-spherical shapes. This new synthesis method offers the important advantages of greener chemistry and scalability, which can further the development of tetrapod-based photovoltaic and electronic devices. There are several possible hypotheses to explain the role of quats in tetrapod formation: (1) quat induces the nucleation of zinc blende CdSe; (2) the ammonium head group binds to particular CdSe surfaces during growth; (3) quantum dot formation occurs inside reverse micelles; and (4) quats decompose into shape-inducing surface ligands. Concerning the last hypothesis, quats are known to be susceptible to thermal decomposition via reverse Menshutkin reaction and Hofmann elimination. Trioctylamine and HCl are possible decomposition products of quats, and so we carried out quantum dot syntheses using trioctylamine, HCl, and a trioctylamine/HCl mixture. Trioctylamine yielded spherical CdSe quantum dots and the other two syntheses led to irregularly faceted particles. Thus, quat decomposition did not appear to be an important factor in tetrapod synthesis. While the invention has been described with a limited number of embodiments, these specific embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as otherwise described and claimed herein. Variations and modifications therefrom exist. For instance, dimensions of the nanoparticles of various shapes and compositions can be easily controlled by varying reaction parameters such as, but not limited to, precursor concentration, injection temperature, growth temperature and growth time. For example, lower reaction temperatures are believed to promote the growth of longer arms. Thus, reactions performed at temperatures in the range of 160° C.-190° C. reaction temperatures, specifically injection around 190° C. followed by reaction temperatures of about 160° C., may provide nanoparticles having arms much longer than even 200 nm. Thus, various compositions of nanoparticles (oxides, sulfides, selenides, metals, tellurides of transition metal elements) should be readily obtainable using the described methods. Shapes other than tetrapods, such as rods, bipods, and tripods should also be obtainable by proper selection of the quaternary compound and control of the reaction parameters. Mixtures of quaternary compounds may be used. Nanoparticle shapes of mixed compositions may also be prepared, such as core/shell compositions and “bar-coded” compositions. Heat-transfer fluids, besides octadecene, may be used in some embodiments. Embodiments of the methods described herein may also be extended to the formation of hollow anisotropic nanoparticles of various compositions. Finally, some non-spherical nanoparticles may have advantageous or unexpected properties such as higher quantum yield fluorescence compared to other nanoparticles of corresponding compositions. Compositions having a quantum yield of about 5-10% or more can be obtained. In addition, particular embodiments of the invention provide one or more of the following advantages. The tetrapods with high selectivity can be produced and hence no size sorting procedures are needed. The cost of the synthesis is reduced by 200 times making it a favorable method for scaling up of the tetrapod production. The quaternary ammonium compounds are biodegradable and safe thereby making this method green and environmental friendly. Finally, any number disclosed herein should be construed to mean approximate, regardless of whether the word “about” or “approximate” is used in describing the number. The appended claims intend to cover all such variations and modifications as falling within the scope of the invention.
This invention provides non-spherical nanoparticle compositions that are the reaction product of a source of a Group 12, 13, 14, or 15 metal or metalloid; a source of a Group 15 or 16 element; and a source of a quaternary ammonium compound or phosphonium compound; wherein nanoparticle tetrapods comprise 75-100 number percent of the nanoparticle products.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention [0001] The invention relates to ceramic composite bodies including at least two layers, particularly for armor in civilian and military applications, and methods for fabricating ceramic composite bodies. In particular, the invention relates to bodies including a multilayer composite material containing primarily silicon carbide (SiC) with an exterior layer containing substantially SiC that is bound in a matrix of free silicon (Si) and an interior layer containing loosely bound SiC ceramic powder; and to a method for producing and utilizing these composite bodies. [0002] For protective armors that protect against the ballistic effect of projectiles, different requirements must be satisfied with respect to projectile refraction, multi-hit capability, component geometry, or component weight, depending on the field of use. [0003] In the civilian domain, utilization is centered on personal security, armored limousines, and bulletproof vests. The standards with respect to projectile refraction are not so high, because heavy weapons of middle or large caliber are rarely used in this area. The standards with respect to the weight and geometry of the components, among other things, are high. Parts with complex shapes are needed, coupled with the demand for an optimally small component thickness or build-in depth and low weight. The distance from the threat is usually very short, even as little as a few meters. In case of a multi-hit, which is common, the hits are close to one another. Therefore, the highest standards apply to the multi-hit capability of the armor. [0004] In the military domain, a threat from high-velocity and large-caliber projectiles and explosive projectiles is assumed. Although the standards for component thickness and build-in depth are lower than in the civilian domain, a low specific weight of the armor material is critical here as well, because the armor component must generally be constructed very thick in accordance with the extremely high standards for energy absorption. [0005] The long distances to the targets generally result in large intervals between hits. The standards for multi-hit capability are therefore lower in this case. [0006] For armor in the military domain, flat plates are commonly utilized today as additional armor for land and water vehicles as well as helicopters, containers, receptacles, dugouts and fortifications. [0007] Armor from one or more steel plates is usually treated such that at least the side facing the threat becomes extremely hard and thus able to refract projectiles. The side that is averted from the threat is built more ductile or tougher in order to absorb the energy of the projectile by a deformation of material. This is also the typical construction of armor plates that consist of other materials. [0008] Compared to metals, the advantage of ceramic materials is their greater hardness and lower specific weight. Because monolithic ceramic exhibits a typical brittle fracture when shot, ceramic plates (monolithic ceramic) form a multitude of coarse to fine splinters when they burst. Because of the splintering process that occurs with a shot, it does not make sense to utilize ceramic plates without additional backing (supporting material and splinter trap) on the side that is averted from the entry point of the projectile. The respective ceramic plate is generally totally destroyed by the projectile. A multi-hit thus cannot be sustained. [0009] Therefore, armor that is made of ceramic materials formed as two layers. The front plate, which consists of optimally monolithic ceramic, is responsible for deforming the residual projectile and potentially refracting the hard core. A deformable reinforcement which is attached to the back of the ceramic plate, the backing, is responsible for trapping or absorbing the projectile, fragments, and ceramic splinters and stabilizing the remaining ceramic plate. Accordingly, it is referred to hereinafter as an absorber layer. The backing generally includes high-expansion tear-resistant fabrics (aramide fiber fabrics, HDPE fabrics, etc.), metal or plastics. [0010] Modern material configurations lead to fiber-reinforced composite materials including regions of monolithic ceramic (projectile refractors) and fiber-reinforced ceramic (absorption layer), for instance as described in European Patent Application No. EP 0 376 794 A1, which corresponds to U.S. Pat. No. 5,114,772. The disadvantages of these configurations are the high price and the low availability of suitable fibers for fiber-reinforced ceramics. only relatively expensive carbon fibers are technically significant for the customary sintering technique for manufacturing fiber-reinforced ceramics. [0011] Another approach for achieving the projectile-absorbing and splinter-absorbing effect by using ceramic material is described in European Patent Application No. EP 0 287 918 A1. In one of the cited variants, a multilayer armor plate is described, which consists of a conventional ceramic plate as a front plate and, behind that, an absorber plate formed from what is known as chemically bonded ceramic. The chemically bonded ceramic includes hard fillers such as fibers or ceramic powder and a binding phase (or matrix) including cements that have been modified with organic or inorganic polymers and that harden at low temperatures. The hard fillers lead to blunting, deflection, and fragmentation of the projectile. [0012] The fabrication of multilayer armor plates with a complex geometry and a stable chemical bond between the two material layers according to this method is very expensive. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0013] It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a ceramic composite body, a method for fabricating ceramic composite bodies, and armor using ceramic composite bodies that overcome the hereinafore-mentioned disadvantages of the heretofore-known devices of this general type and that make available a ceramic composite body having a projectile-refracting front layer and, permanently joined thereto, an absorber layer. The ceramic composite body is made available by using a cost-effective fabrication method that also allows complex component geometries. [0014] With the foregoing and other objects in view, there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a composite body including at least two layers. The composite body is distinguished by an exterior shot-refracting ceramic layer (front plate) substantially made from a carbide and a carbide-forming metal, preferably SiC and Si (material layer A), and an interior layer (material layer B) that is permanently connected thereto and contains weakly or loosely bound ceramic powder made of SiC. [0015] With the objects of the invention in view, there is also provided a method for fabricating such a composite body. According to the method, the multilayer composite material is produced by the fluid infiltration of a porous base body formed of ceramic particles and carbon material by a carbide-forming metal, particularly silicon metal. The infiltrating step forms both the exterior ceramic layer of carbide and carbide-forming metal, preferably SiC and Si (material A) and the interior layer of weakly or loosely bound ceramic powder substantially consisting of SiC (material B). The two layers are permanently chemically bonded to one another, in a single common step on the basis of the liquid metal infiltration. [0016] The invention is based on the recognition that powder or particulate ceramic, like sand fill, exhibits a highly advantageous absorption behavior relative to ballistic effects, provided that the powder material is mechanically stabilized, that is to say, held together. This cohesion is inventively achieved by the permanently chemically bonded ceramic layer (material A) and the sintering of the ceramic blend of the green body in the region of material B that occurs during the metal melt infiltration. [0017] The inventive composite body thus includes at least two layers. One exterior material layer A contains phases of a carbide-forming metal and the carbide of this metal, preferably reaction-bonded silicon carbide (SiC) and silicon (also referenced SiSiC). And, behind that layer, a material layer B contains loosely bound SiC ceramic powder or particles—as well as additional layers disposed behind these layers, particularly layers of material A or fiber backing. These additional layers further enhance the energy-absorbing effect of the armor. [0018] What is meant by loosely bound ceramic powder or particles is, specifically, material whose stability is at least 20% below that of the material of layer A. [0019] With the preferred method of liquid-metal infiltration with a silicon melt, a ceramic with a good fracture toughness or damage tolerance in addition to very high hardness is formed in the material layer A by the reaction of the carbide-forming metal with carbon. The brittle fracturing behavior of the ceramic, which is harmful with respect to multi-hits, is thus advantageously suppressed. An alloy containing at least 50% silicon by mass, particularly technical silicon or pure silicon, is preferably utilized as the infiltration metal. In the infiltration with a silicon alloy of the metals Fe, Cr, or Ni, silicon carbide preferably forms from the carbon contained in the precursor of material layer A. In infiltration with a titanium silicon alloy, titanium carbide as well as silicon carbide preferably form from the carbon. [0020] The silicon carbide and nitride particles contained in material layer B are sintered together at points of contact at the temperature of infiltration with the liquid metal, whereby a loose structure with pores emerges. The non-volatile pyrolysis products of the organic binder of the raw material mixture also contribute to the stability of material layer B. [0021] Material layer A preferably contains at least 70% SiC particles by mass embedded in a matrix of free silicon. The proportion of SiC is preferably greater than 75%, and particularly above 85%. The proportion of free silicon, which also includes silicon mix phases with other metallic elements, is above 2.8%. Preferably, the proportion of free silicon is in the range between 3 and 21% and particularly between 3 and 15%. Material layer A is constructed such that an optimally high hardness is achieved, which can be accomplished with an optimally high density, ideally the theoretical density. The porosity (proportion of pores by volume) of material layer A is preferably under 20%, or the density is at least 2.1 g/cm 3 , and particularly the porosity is preferably below 10%, or the density is above 2.2 g/cm 3 . Material A typically includes carbon that is still free and potentially also ceramic additives in proportions of approx. 0.5 to 15% by mass. Hard ceramics on a nitride base are preferably added as ceramic additives. These include the nitrides of Si, Ti, Zr, B, and Al. [0022] The average particle size of the SiC that can be utilized for both material layers A and B is typically in the range between 20 and 750 m. Because a homogenous green body (pre-body of the metal infiltration) is generally initially produced from the ceramic powders, depending on the method, the particle sizes in the material layers A and B differ only insignificantly. But it is also possible to provide different particle sizes for the layers, whereby the material layer A then preferably contains finer material than material layer B. The average particle size in layer A is then preferably under. 50 m, and the average particle size in layer B is over 50 m. [0023] The material layer B is preferably constructed primarily from SiC particles also. The proportion of SiC particles by mass is preferably over 70% and particularly preferably over 90%. The content of ceramic additives is in comparable proportions to the content in layer A. The material layer B preferably contains at least one of the nitrides of the elements Si, Ti, Zr, B, and Al in proportions between 0.05% and 15% by mass. Unlike material A, the ceramic in material layer B—that is to say, its ceramic particles—is not reaction-bonded by silicon; there is almost no matrix of silicon or a silicon alloy present. The proportion of free silicon or silicon/metal phases is typically under 5% by mass, preferably under 2.5%, and particularly preferably under 1%. [0024] The ceramic particles in the material layer B are only weakly bound, in part by way of carbon binding phases, in part directly by way of sintering bridges. Material layer B thus has a relatively high porosity, which is typically between 5% and 35% and preferably in the range between 12% and 27%. [0025] The density of material layer B is generally under 2.55 g/cm 3 , preferably under 2.05 g/cm 3 and particularly preferably under 1.96 g/cm 3 . The porosity is typically at least 7% higher in material layer B than in material layer A. [0026] The loose bond between the ceramic particles is critical to the inventive effect of material layer B. Among other things, it prevents the tear from spreading through remote regions of a contiguous workpiece part as typically happens with a brittle fracture, although the hardness of the ceramic material is nevertheless exploited. This effect is also achieved when the pores in this layer are filled by a material that is substantially softer than the ceramic. [0027] In another advantageous development of the invention, the intermediate spaces between the ceramic particles in the material layer B are therefore filled with a soft material. A plastic or metal is typically used as the soft material, whereby the metal has a hardness of 5 at most on Mohs' scale. In particular, thermoplastic polymers, resins, glues, elastomers, or aluminum are suitable. At least half the space formed between the ceramic particles is preferably filled with the soft material. [0028] The application of the inventive composite body relates to the field of protective armors, particularly to an anti-ballistic effect. Based on the good thermal characteristics, particularly the high melting point or decomposition point of SiC, the composite material is also a highly suitable armor material for constructing vaults and secure buildings. [0029] Components formed from the inventive composite bodies are usually configured so that the overall thickness of material layers A and B is between 6 and 300 mm. Additional layers, particularly from material A or fiber backing, can be disposed behind the layer of material B. The layer thickness of material A is typically over 1 mm and over 3 mm for armor plating. The thickness ratio of the material layers A and B is typically less than 1:50, preferably less than 1:10, including only the front layer facing the shot side, which consists of material A, as layer A, and the subsequent layer, which consists of material B, as layer B. [0030] Material layer A merges into material layer B, whereby the transition is generally recognizable by a substantial decrease in the silicon content of the matrix. [0031] Other features that are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. [0032] Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a ceramic composite body, a method for fabricating ceramic composite bodies, and armor using ceramic composite bodies, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. [0033] The construction and method of operation of the invention, however, together with additional objects and advantages thereof will be best understood from the following description of specific embodiments when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0034] The FIGURE is a microscopic abrasion projection of the boundary surface between the material layers A and B of a composite body according to the invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0035] Referring now to the single FIGURE of the drawing, it is seen that gray regions 1 are SiC particles which are distributed approximately uniformly over the whole section. In the upper half A, which corresponds to the material A, the SiC regions are joined by a continuous white phase 2 . This is the silicon matrix. The bottom half B, which corresponds to material B, includes pores instead of the matrix (black regions, 3 ). The other components of carbon or nitride particles are indistinguishable in this representation. [0036] Based on the ease with which it is possible to fabricate a material B that is surrounded on all sides by material layer A, the layer sequence of a front plate consisting of material A, an absorber zone consisting of the material B, and a backplate (or backing) consisting of material A is particularly preferred for flat components. [0037] The composite bodies are inventively produced by the metal liquid infiltration of porous green bodies containing SiC, carbon, and nitride. [0038] The method includes the following important processing steps: [0039] a) Produce a porous carbonaceous green body containing carbides, nitrides, and carbon material; [0040] b) add a melt of a carbide-forming metal over at least one exterior surface of the green body; and [0041] c) carry out a metal infiltration and react at least a portion of the metal melt with carbon into metal carbide, forming the different material layers A and B. [0042] In the fabrication of the porous carbonaceous green body, a blend of the solids containing silicon carbide, nitrides and potentially carbon, an organic binder is produced. This blend is shaped according to the customary techniques of the ceramics industry (pressing, injection molding, slipping, among others), whereby the hardening of the organic binder is responsible for the stability of the resulting body. The hardened body is then carbonized by a temperature treatment in the range between 650 and 1600° C., preferably 1000° C. The organic binder is inventively carbonizable; that is, the binder is not completely volatilized by heating under non-oxidizing conditions, but rather a carbon residue forms. The resulting body, the green body, now consists of the added solids, particularly the ceramic particles, which are held together by a binding phase consisting of pyrolitically generated carbon. [0043] The cohesion of the initial blend is preferably selected so that the proportion of silicon carbide in the porous carbonaceous green body is at least 50% by mass, preferably at least 65%. The proportion of carbon from carbonized binder and added solids is typically over 4% by mass and preferably over 8%; the proportion of nitrides is over 1%, preferably over 3%, and particularly preferably between 3 and 12%. The nitrides are selected from at least one of the nitrides of Ti, Zr, Si, B, and Al. [0044] The carbon material that is added as a solid is selected from the following group: coal, coke, natural graphite, technical graphite, carbonized organic material, carbon fibers, glass carbon, and carbonization products. Natural graphite or synthetic graphite are particularly suitable. [0045] A substantial advantage of the invention is that expensive carbon fibers can be completely or almost completely omitted. [0046] It is also possible according to the invention to produce a multilayer green body from different initial blends. Compounds in which the region corresponding to the later material layer B has a higher nitride content are preferred. The ballistic behavior of the multilayer composite body is favorably influenced by this. [0047] In step b), the adding of a metal melt, a carbide-forming metal is infiltrated into the porous green body. The infiltration is supported by the capillary effect and the chemical reaction between the free carbon of the green body and the carbide-forming metal that takes place during the infiltration. In general, the infiltration is carried out at a reduced pressure or in a vacuum at temperatures of approx. 150° C. above the melting point of the infiltration metal. [0048] Silicon alloys, typically from Si and at least one element out of Ti, Fe, Cr, and Mo are preferred as the infiltration metal, but technically pure Si is particularly preferred. [0049] In the liquid metal infiltration, the infiltration metal and its products of reaction with carbon fill the pores of the green body in the outer region, whereas the inner region remains substantially free of infiltration metal and/or its products of reaction with carbon. The proportion of infiltration metal which is supplied by the infiltration in the interior of the inventive composite material, corresponding to material layer B, is typically under 1% by mass, and the proportion of metal carbide that is formed by the infiltration metal is under 3%. [0050] According to the invention, the chemical composition and porosity of the green body and the supply of infiltration metal are selected so that the green body is only partly infiltrated. The infiltration depth can be purposefully controlled specifically by way of the ratio of carbides, carbon and nitrides. [0051] The nitrides impair the cross-linking of the green body with the molten silicon. In particular, the infiltration depth of the silicon melt is reduced, and the degree of conversion of the green body is controlled. [0052] In step c), at least part of the free carbon is converted with the infiltration metal. The conversion can be controlled by way of the temperature and process duration. In this step the material layers A and B are formed. In layer A, a dense ceramic consisting of reaction-bonded metal carbide is formed, namely SiSiC in the preferred instance of infiltration with liquid silicon. In material layer B, where almost none of the infiltration metal reaches, a sintering reaction between the ceramic particles takes place at the temperature of step c), which leads, among other things, to a mechanical stabilization of the material layer. The stability (ultimate breaking strength) must only be high enough that the material B becomes handlable and does not disintegrate offhand. The actual mechanical stabilization of the material layer B occurs by way of the material layer A that is permanently bonded thereto. The stability of layer B can be increased by adding sintering aids that preferably contain Si compounds or powders to the blend for the green body. [0053] The metal melt is typically supplied by wicks or metal powder fills. The metal infiltration typically occurs substantially over the whole surface, so that the material layer A produces a closed material surface. When plate-type green bodies are used, the resulting component includes the layer sequence of material layers A B A in the direction of the surface normals, the preferred direction of the ballistic threat. [0054] This simple procedure for achieving this preferred layer structure is one of the significant advantages of the inventive method. [0055] The mechanical stability of the material layer B can be improved without the typical inventive characteristics resembling a loose powder fill being lost by additionally filling the pores of the material B with a soft material. This can be accomplished by a melt infiltration with a thermoplastic polymer or a liquid infiltration with a polymer resin. The pores are preferably filled at least 30% with polyolefins or epoxy resins. [0056] In another advantageous development of the invention, the pores are infiltrated with glues that are particularly suitable for gluing a backing. Backing materials made of aramide fibers are particularly suitable for this. [0057] In a particularly advantageous development of the invention, the composite body, particularly the material layer B, is infiltrated with a light alloy, particularly Al. [0058] When the pores are filled with a soft material, the residual porosity of the layer B is preferably under 15%. [0059] Filling the pores of the material layer B with a polymer can be particularly advantageous for gluing on a backing, particularly a backing made of fiber mats or fabrics.
A ceramic composite body includes at least two layers: material layer A and material layer B. Material layer A contains phases of a metal and the carbide of this metal. Material layer B contains silicon carbide that has been loosely bound by sintering. A method for fabricating the composite body is included and a protective armor against projectiles.
8
BACKGROUND The present invention relates generally to setting tools for packers and more particularly to a hydraulic setting tool for packers, which is capable of setting the packer and opening the packer valve in one trip. Generally, the production efficiency of an operating oil and/or gas well decreases over time. This is due to a number of factors. In some cases, it is simply due to the fact that a reservoir containing hydrocarbons is near depletion. In many other cases, it is due to the fact that a path along which the hydrocarbons flow becomes blocked. This can occur for a number of reasons, such as production screens becoming plugged and the closing of a fracture through which the hydrocarbons flow. When this occurs, the well needs to undergo what is known in the art as a “workover.” A workover is an operation to open the path along which hydrocarbons flow. During a workover, production tubing is removed from the well and workover tools are sent downhole in its place. One of the workover tools is a packer. A packer is a device placed in the region of the well that needs treatment. The packer isolates the region needing treatment from the rest of the well. Furthermore, the packer has a valve that can be opened and closed to control the flow of treatment fluid into the subterranean formation. When the workover is complete, the packer is drilled out of the well and the production tubing is inserted back into the well thereby enabling production to resume. In order to install packers into the well and control the opening and closing of their valves, specialized equipment known as “setting tools” have been developed. Generally, there are two basic types of setting tools, those characterized as mechanical and those characterized as hydraulic. Both types of setting tools are attached at the end of a workstring and are operable from the surface. Conventional mechanically operated setting tools require that the workstring be rotated in order to set the packer. This raises a number of problems in horizontal wells. For one, rotation of the workstring in a horizontal well can cause the workstring to break. Furthermore, rotation of the workstring at the surface may cause a delayed rotation downhole or no rotation at all. In either case, the well operator cannot be certain that the packer has been set. Drag spring mechanical setting tools have recently had the additional problem of not setting the packer when used in synthetic fluids. These drag spring mechanical setting tools do not offer enough resistance to rotate properly in the new synthetic fluids and thereby fail to set the packers. Conventional hydraulic setting tools typically employ the use of a ball or plug to create the necessary fluid pressure to activate the packer. A drawback of this technique is that the ball or plug has to be removed from the workstring after the packer is set before performing additional operations. This requires recirculation of the fluid to the surface, which in turn takes time and adds expense to the operation. A further drawback of conventional mechanical and hydraulic setting tools is that it typically requires at least two trips downhole with the workstring to accomplish the tasks of setting the packer, opening the packer valve and pumping the treatment fluid into the subterranean formation through the packer. The necessity of two trips to accomplish these tasks takes time and thus adds expense to the operation. Furthermore, conventional setting tools are limited in that multiple setting tools are typically required to set different size packers. This is particularly problematic in offshore applications where space is limited and transporting and storing multiple setting tools on site can be a challenge. SUMMARY The present invention provides a hydraulic setting tool for packers, which meets the needs described above and overcome the deficiencies of the prior art. In its preferred embodiment, the hydraulic setting tool in accordance with the present invention has the ability to both set the packer and open the valve in the packer in one trip. It accomplishes this through the use of an outer sleeve and an inner mandrel coaxially disposed within the outer sleeve and adapted to move axially relative to the outer sleeve. In another aspect of the present invention, the setting tool includes first means for locking the inner mandrel into a first predetermined axial position relative to the outer sleeve. This is the position in which the setting tool is “run-in” the well. Preferably, the first locking means comprises a locking ring housing disposed between the inner mandrel and the outer sleeve and is adapted to be axially movable relative to the inner mandrel and outer sleeve. The first locking means also comprises a piston pin housing attached to a housing connection, which connects the piston pin housing to the inner mandrel. It further preferably comprises a shear pin adapted to fail under a predetermined load, which temporarily secures the locking ring housing to the piston pin housing. The first locking means additionally comprises four locking lugs that are disposed between a flanged end of the locking ring housing and the inner mandrel, which locks the inner mandrel to the outer sleeve so as to make it axially immovable. In another aspect of the present invention, the first locking means further comprises a shear coupling disposed between the inner mandrel and the outer sleeve wherein the shear coupling has a shoulder against which a flanged-shaped portion of the inner mandrel abuts. It further comprises a shear pin adapted to fail under a predetermined load, which temporarily secures the shear coupling to the outer sleeve thereby making the inner mandrel axially immovable relative to the outer sleeve in an upward direction. The predetermined load necessary to cause the shear pin that temporarily secures the shear coupling to the outer sleeve to fail is preferably greater than the predetermined load necessary to cause the shear pin that temporarily secures the locking ring housing to the piston pin housing to fail. The first locking means thus prevents the setting tool from prematurely setting the packer during run-in. The first locking means is disengaged by pumping fluid into the setting tool until both shear pins fail. Additional fluid pressure is subsequently added to force the inner mandrel upward relative to the outer sleeve, which in turn sets the packer. In yet another aspect of the present invention, the hydraulic setting tool further comprises means for biasing the inner mandrel into a second predetermined axial position relative to the outer sleeve. In this position, the setting tool is able to open the valve in the packer. Preferably, the biasing means comprises a helical spring, which at one end engages a shoulder formed in the inner mandrel and at another end engages a shoulder formed in the outer sleeve. In still another aspect of the present invention, the hydraulic setting tool includes second means for locking the inner mandrel into the second predetermined axial position. The second locking means preferably comprises a locking key disposed in a groove in the outer sleeve and a spring, which forces the locking key into a groove formed in the inner mandrel when the inner mandrel is in the second predetermined axial position thereby locking the inner mandrel to the outer sleeve so as to make it axially immovable. Other and further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the description of preferred embodiments which follows. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention is better understood by reading the following description of non-limitative embodiments with reference to the attached drawings wherein like parts of each of the several figures are identified by the same referenced characters, and which are briefly described as follows: FIGS. 1–3 are schematic diagrams of non-continuous portions of the upper, middle and lower sections of the hydraulic setting tool in accordance with the present invention shown in a “run-in” position. FIGS. 4–6 are schematic diagrams of non-continuous portions of the upper, middle and lower sections of the hydraulic setting tool in accordance with the present invention shown in a “shear-off” position. FIGS. 7–9 are schematic diagrams of non-continuous portions of the upper, middle and lower sections of the hydraulic setting tool in accordance with the present invention shown in a “stinger-locked” position. FIG. 10 is an enlarged schematic diagram of that section of the hydraulic setting tool in accordance with the present invention showing the locking mechanism that locks the hydraulic setting tool in both axial directions. FIG. 11 is an enlarged schematic diagram of the upper section of the hydraulic setting tool in accordance with the present invention illustrating the mechanism that locks the hydraulic setting tool in the stinger-locked position. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing one side of a drillable packer, which is attached at an end of the hydraulic setting tool in accordance with the present invention. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, as the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The details of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to the figures. Turning to FIGS. 1–3 , a setting tool in accordance with the present invention is shown generally by reference numeral 10 . Setting tool 10 comprises an outer sleeve 12 and an inner mandrel 14 . The outer sleeve 12 is formed generally of a tubular shaped steel pipe and connects at one end to a workstring (not shown). The inner mandrel 14 is also generally tubular shaped and formed of steel. The inner mandrel 14 is coaxially disposed within the outer sleeve 12 and is adapted to move in the axial direction relative to the outer sleeve 12 . A drillable packer 68 is attached to the end of the inner mandrel 14 . Although details of the setting tool 10 are discussed with reference to drillable packer 68 , it will be understood that setting tool 10 can be used with a retrievable packer, drillable and retrievable bridge plugs, and similar downhole tools. Setting tool 10 further comprises a spring 16 which abuts at one end against a shoulder of the outer sleeve 12 and abuts at the other end against a shoulder against the inner mandrel 14 , as shown in FIG. 1 . In compression, the spring 16 supplies an axial force against the inner mandrel 14 tending to move the inner mandrel 14 downward relative to the outer sleeve 12 . Spring 16 is preferably formed of steel and assumes the shape of a helical coil. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other equivalent biasing means may be employed to move the inner mandrel 14 relative to the outer sleeve 12 . Setting tool 10 further comprises a bi-directional locking device referred to generally by reference numeral 18 . The bi-directional locking device 18 comprises a locking ring housing 20 , which is generally tubular shaped and coaxially disposed between an outer surface of the inner mandrel 14 and an inner surface of the outer sleeve 12 , as best seen in FIG. 10 . Locking ring housing 20 is adapted to move axially relative to the outer sleeve 12 and the inner mandrel 14 . The locking ring housing 20 comprises an inner O-ring 22 and an outer O-ring 24 . Inner and outer O-rings 22 and 24 are preferably formed of an elastomeric material. The inner O-ring 22 seals the locking ring housing 20 against the outer surface of the inner mandrel 14 and the outer O-ring 24 seals the locking ring housing 20 against a housing connection 26 , which is disposed within outer sleeve 12 . The locking ring housing 20 divides the space between the inner mandrel 14 and the outer sleeve 12 into two chambers, an upper chamber 28 and a lower chamber 30 . Fluid is allowed to enter lower chamber 30 through ports 32 formed in the inner mandrel 14 , as shown in FIGS. 3 and 10 . The inner and outer O-rings 22 and 24 provide a hermetic seal thereby preventing fluid from entering the upper chamber 28 through the lower chamber 30 . Bi-directional locking device 18 further comprises a piston pin housing 34 disposed between the locking ring housing 20 and the housing connection 26 . Piston pin housing 34 is attached on one side to housing connection 26 and on the other side to locking ring housing 20 . The piston pin housing 34 comprises an annular recess into which a shear pin 36 is placed. The shear pin 36 temporarily attaches the piston pin housing 34 to the locking ring housing 20 . Shear pin 36 is designed to fail at a predetermined load, which corresponds to an upward fluid pressure applied to the locking ring housing 20 created by pumping fluid down hole into the lower chamber 30 through ports 32 . In one example according to the present invention, the shear pin 36 shears under a pressure of 850 psi. The locking ring housing 20 further comprises flange 38 at a down hole end, which is designed to abut against a plurality of locking lugs 40 . Preferably, there are four locking lugs 40 disposed around the circumference of the inner mandrel 14 . More preferably, the locking lugs 40 are spaced equidistant around the circumference of the inner mandrel 14 , i.e., they are disposed 90° apart from one another. Locking lugs 40 are designed to abut against the flange 38 of the locking ring housing 20 , and a shoulder formed in the outer sleeve 12 , and reside in a groove in the inner mandrel 14 . Locking rings 40 act as a wedge and prevent bi-directional axial movement of the inner mandrel 14 relative to the outer sleeve 12 . Setting tool 10 comprises another locking device 42 , which prevents inner mandrel 14 from moving relative to the outer sleeve 12 in a “run-in” position. The locking device 42 includes a shear coupling 44 , which is attached to the outer sleeve 12 by shear pin 46 , as shown in FIG. 3 . The shear coupling 44 is coaxially disposed between the inner mandrel 14 and the outer sleeve 12 . It has an annular recess formed within it for threading engagement with the shear pin 46 . The shear pin 46 is designed to fail at a predetermined load, which is preferably higher than the predetermined load necessary to cause shear pin 36 to fail. In one embodiment, the shear pin 46 fails at approximately 1,200 psi. The shear coupling 44 also includes a shoulder, which is designed to abut against a flange 48 formed on an outer surface of the inner mandrel 14 . Shear coupling 44 prevents upward movement of the inner mandrel 14 relative to the outer sleeve 12 , and bi-directional movement of the packer 68 relative to the outer sleeve 12 . More specifically, it prevents the inner mandrel 14 from moving axially relative to the outer sleeve 12 in the event that the setting tool 10 is inadvertently thrust against an obstruction during run-in. It thereby prevents premature setting of the packer 68 . Setting tool 10 comprises another locking device 50 , which is provided to place the setting tool 10 in a “stinger-locked” position as shown in FIGS. 7–9 . In the stinger-locked position, the setting tool 10 is able to open a valve of the packer 68 . The locking device 50 comprises a plurality of locking keys 52 , as shown in FIG. 5 . Preferably, eight locking keys 52 are provided around the circumference of the inner mandrel 14 . More preferably, the locking keys 52 are spaced equidistant around the circumference of the inner mandrel 14 , i.e., 45° apart from one another. The locking keys 52 are disposed between inner mandrel 14 and the outer sleeve 12 , as shown in FIG. 11 . The locking keys 52 are generally rectangular-shaped, and generally radius-shaped in cross section. The locking keys 52 are housed within a recess in the inner surface of the outer sleeve 12 and are forced into engagement with the outer surface of the inner mandrel 14 by a retaining spring 54 . A recessed groove 56 is formed along the outer surface of the inner mandrel 14 and is designed to accommodate the eight locking keys 52 . In particular, the groove 56 is approximately equal to or slightly larger in length and width to the locking keys 52 . The retaining spring 54 forces the locking keys 52 into the groove 56 when the groove 56 is directly aligned under the locking keys 52 , which occurs in the stinger-locked position. Inner mandrel 14 is placed in the stinger-locked position by the spring 16 , as will be described in more detail below. The operation of the setting tool 10 in accordance with the present invention will now be described. In operation, the setting tool 10 (which is attached at one end to the workstring and has hanging from it at the other end packer 68 ) is placed into the wellbore, which is typically filled with fluid. A fill-in valve, which is part of the workstring (not shown) is provided to allow the fluid within the well to flow into the inside of the workstring and setting tool 10 . The fill-in valve is configured such that once the desired depth is achieved the fill-in valve closes. The fill-in valve employs a sleeve, which is held in place by shear pins, which shear once the desired depth is reached. The shearing of the shear pins causes the sleeve to slide over input ports, which in turn closes the flow of fluid into the workstring and setting tool 10 . As those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, other mechanisms may be employed to fill the workstring and setting tool 10 while running in the wellbore. The configuration shown in FIGS. 1–3 is the configuration in which the setting tool 10 is placed into the wellbore. This is known as the run-in position. In this position, spring 16 is partially compressed and therefore is run-in in a partially pre-loaded condition. Also, in this position, the bi-directional locking device 18 is placed in the locked position and thereby bi-directionally locks inner mandrel 14 to the outer sleeve 12 . Furthermore, in the run-in position, the locking device 42 is also placed in the locked position, which precludes the inner mandrel 14 from moving upward relative to the outer sleeve 12 . Once the setting tool 10 has reached its desired position within the well, i.e., the position wherein it can set the packer 68 , the workstring ceases to be lowered into the well. As previously mentioned, the shear pins 36 and shear pins 46 engage locking devices 18 and 42 , respectively, which in turn prevent the inner mandrel 14 from moving axially in either direction relative to the outer sleeve 12 . This pre-locked position prevents such movement and therefore premature setting of the packer 68 in the event that any unexpected movement occurs downhole. In order to set the packer 68 , fluid is pumped down into the setting tool 10 through the inside of the inner mandrel 14 . The fluid exits ports 32 and in turn enters lower chamber 30 . As the pressure builds, it applies an upward force onto the locking ring housing 20 . The inner and outer O-rings 22 and 24 prevent the fluid from entering into the upper chamber 28 . Once sufficient pressure is reached, the shear pin 36 fails forcing the locking ring housing 20 to push upward, which in turn moves the flange 38 out of engagement with the locking lugs 40 . This in turn disengages the bi-directional locking device 18 , which but for the engagement of the locking device 42 would otherwise allow the inner mandrel 14 to move axially relative to the outer sleeve 12 . In order to disengage the locking device 42 , fluid is continued to be pumped down the workstring to the setting tool 10 . Additional pressure is applied until the shear pin 46 ultimately fails. As pointed out above, the full pressure required to shear pin 46 is higher than that necessary to shear the shear pins 36 . Once the shear pin 46 has failed, the inner mandrel 14 is free to move axially in either direction relative to the outer sleeve 12 . The fluid pressure forces the inner mandrel 14 upward. As the inner mandrel 14 is forced upward, it compresses the spring 16 as shown in FIG. 4 . It is this upward movement of the setting tool 10 which sets the packer 68 . As shown in FIG. 12 , as the inner mandrel 14 is pushed upward, wedges 60 press against slips 62 and force them into an interference fit engagement with the inner wall of casing string 64 . Flange tips formed on the slip 62 compress against an elastomeric membrane 66 forcing it into engagement with the inner wall of the casing string 64 in turn causing it to form a hermetic seal between the inner wall of the casing string 64 and the packer 68 . Fluid is continuously pumped downhole during this step in the process thereby increasing the pressure to the point that tension sleeve 70 connecting the setting tool 10 to the packer 68 shears in tension. The pressure required to shear the tension sleeve 70 from the packer 68 is higher than that required to shear the pins 46 . This position, the “shear-off” packer position, is shown in FIGS. 4–6 . Once the packer 68 has been set, the next step is to open the valve within the packer 68 so that the treatment fluids can be pumped down into the workstring into the formation. This is accomplished by bleeding off the pressure of the fluid being pumped down through the workstring into the setting tool 10 . By bleeding off the pressure, the spring 16 , which in the shear-off packer position is in compression, forces the inner mandrel 14 to move downward, which in turn pushes against a sliding valve 72 formed within the packer 68 . This action forces the sliding valve 72 downward, which in turn aligns ports 76 within the sliding valve 72 with a port 78 formed within packer mandrel 74 , which in turn, communicates with a subterranean formation. The setting tool 10 is locked into this position by activation of the locking device 50 . It is this position that the locking keys 52 recess into the groove 56 . Retaining spring 54 forces the locking keys 52 into engagement with the groove 56 , which axially fixes the inner mandrel 14 to the outer sleeve 12 . The setting tool 10 is held in this position while the treatment fluids are pumped into the subterranean formation. When the treatment of this region of the subterranean formation is complete, the entire workstring is pulled out of the well. As this occurs, the sliding valve 72 moves into the closed position thereby isolating the inside of the well from the subterranean formation. Once the workover is complete, the workstring and setting tool 10 are pulled out of the well, the packer 68 is drilled out of the casing string 64 or wellbore, as is the case, and the well is then prepared for being taken back on line. Therefore, the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objects and attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those that are inherent therein. While numerous changes may be made by those skilled in the art, such changes are encompassed within the spirit of this invention as defined by the appended claims.
A hydraulic setting tool for packers capable of mechanically setting the packer and opening a valve in the packer in one trip. The tool comprises an outer sleeve and an inner mandrel coaxially disposed within the outer sleeve and adapted to move axially relative to the outer sleeve. The tool further comprises three locking mechnisms that unlock under different fluid pressure loads. Two of the locking mechanisms lock the inner mandrel to the outer sleeve in a run-in position. Once a sufficient fluid pressure has been reached to unlock both of these locking mechanisms, the inner mandrel moves upward relative to the outer sleeve to set the packer. A spring forces the inner mandrel into a third position relative to the outer sleeve, which is maintained by the third locking mechanism. This third position is used to open the packer valve.
4
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to measuring devices and, more particularly, to apparatus for measuring a number of particles and an amount of pigment in a test liquid. To measure the number and the size of blood components (leukocytes, corpuscles, etc.) in a blood sample, the prior art mixes the blood sample with an electrically conducting liquid (an electrolyte), and passes a fixed volume of the mixture through a minute hole. Electrodes on opposed sides of the minute hole pass an electric current through the mixture, and particularly through the hole. The electrical resistance of blood components is different from that of the electrolyte. As a result, when a particle of blood component passes through the minute hole, it partly blocks the minute hole, thereby changing the electrical resistance therethrough. A resulting pulse change in resistance is detected. The pulses are counted while the fixed quantity of the mixture is drawn through the minute hole to indicate the amount of blood component particles in the mixture. The amount of hemoglobin (red pigment) in the mixture is measured with a colorimeter. When the number of leukocytes and the amount of hemoglobin are measured by conventional apparatus using a test mixture containing hemolyzed red blood corpuscles, two separate liquid routes are required: one for measuring the number of leukocytes, the other for measuring the amount of hemoglobin. Therefore, the liquid routes of conventional devices are complicated and expensive. Conventional devices also require large amounts of test mixture and a large amount of liquid for cleanup between tests. In addition, conventional fluid control systems and devices controlling operation of fluid circuits, as well as devices for moving various parts of control systems, are bulky and inconvenient. Elements of such control systems frequently use tubes. Furthermore, testing of blood components is frequently done in a series of tests of different blood samples. Purging of the equipment between tests is required in preparation for the next test. An automated technique for performing the tests and for performing the cleanup is desirable. OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide an automatic apparatus for measuring a liquid specimen which detects changes in the electrical resistance as a mixture of an electrolyte and blood components is drawn through a minute aperture. It is a further object of the invention to provide an automatic apparatus for testing a liquid specimen which utilizes a compact and convenient control system. Briefly stated, the present invention provides a control system for a particle detector for detecting particles of blood components in an electrolyte. The apparatus employs sets of cams mounted on one-way clutches, positioned on a shaft of a motor. When the shaft is rotated by the motor in a clockwise direction, one set of cams moves together with the shaft, and when the shaft is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, another set of cams rotates in the counterclockwise direction. The rotation of cams controls movement of pistons which, together with cavities, form syringes and valves interconnected with passages. The valves and syringes are operated in sequence to prepare a specimen for measurement, to perform the measurement, and to clean up and purge the system between measurements. According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a control system for controlling work of an analyzer of a liquid specimen comprising: a plurality of cams, means for rotating the plurality of cams, a plurality of pistons mounted for moving in plurality of cavities, means for resiliently urging the plurality of pistons into contact with respective ones of the plurality of cams, at least a first of the plurality of pistons including means for displacing a fixed quantity of the liquid specimen, and at least some of a remainder of the pistons including means for forming valves controlling a flow of the liquid displaced by the first of the plurality of pistons. According to a feature of the invention, there is provided a control system for controlling an analyzer of a liquid specimen comprising: a shaft, a first plurality of cams, a second plurality of cams, a first one-way clutch on the shaft, the first one-way clutch being of a type capable of transmitting torque from the shaft only during rotation of the shaft in a first direction, means for connecting torque from the first one-way clutch to the first plurality of cams, a second one-way clutch on the shaft, the second one-way clutch being of a type capable of transmitting torque from the shaft only during rotation of the shaft in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, means for connecting torque from the second one-way clutch to the second plurality of cams, a first plurality of pistons mounted for moving in a first plurality of cavities, the first plurality of pistons contacting the first plurality of cams, a second plurality of pistons mounted for movement in a second plurality of cavities, the second plurality of pistons contacting the second plurality of cams, means cooperating with at least some of the pistons for forming syringes effective for displacing a quantity of the liquid, and means cooperating with at least some of a remainder of the pistons mounted for forming valves controlling a flow of the liquid displaced by the syringes. According to a further feature of the invention, there is provided a control system for controlling liquid flow in a particle detector, comprising: a plurality of cams, means for selectively rotating the plurality of cams in a right-hand and a left-hand direction, a plurality of pistons mounted for movement in a plurality of cavities, the plurality of pistons contacting the plurality of cams; at least one of the plurality of pistons and one of the plurality of cavities forming a syringe effective for displacing a fixed quantity of the liquid, and at least some of a remainder of the plurality pistons and the plurality of cavities forming valves controlling a flow of the liquid displaced by the syringe. According to a still further feature of the invention, there is provided a control system for handling a specimen comprising: a syringe, a tube, means for actuating the syringe to draw a predetermined quantity of the specimen into the tube, and means for enlarging a capacity of the tube to a value sufficient to contain at least the predetermined quantity, whereby none of the specimen is drawn into the syringe. According to a still further feature of the invention, there is provided a control system for handling a specimen comprising: a first syringe, a detector immersed in the specimen, a first tube from the first syringe to an interior of the detector, a second syringe, a second tube immersed in the specimen, a colorimeter, means for connecting the second tube to the second syringe, the means for connecting including means for passing a fluid through the colorimeter, and common means for driving the first syringe, the second syringe and the means for connecting. According to a still further feature of the invention, there is provided apparatus for preparing a diluted mixture of a specimen and a diluting liquid comprising: a first syringe, a capacity of the first syringe being a first predetermined quantity, a second syringe, a capacity of the second syringe being a second predetermined quantity, at least one valve, means for selectively closing and opening the at least one valve, first means for drawing the first predetermined quantity of the specimen into the first syringe, second means for drawing the second predetermined quantity of the diluting fluid into the second syringe, means for expelling the first and second predetermined quantities from the first and second syringes through a common exit, means for commonly driving the first and second means for drawing, the means for expelling and the means for selectively closing and opening the at least one valve, the means for commonly driving including a motor driving a plurality of cams, the means for commonly driving including a first piston forming part of the first syringe, a second piston forming part of the second syringe and a third piston forming part of the valve, and the first, second and third pistons being in actuation contact with the plurality of cams. According to a still further feature of the invention, there is provided apparatus comprising: a specimen dilution device, the specimen dilution device including first and second syringes, and at least a first valve, first means for driving the specimen dilution apparatus, a specimen measurement apparatus, second means for driving the specimen measurement apparatus, the first and second means for driving including a reversible common motor, means for connecting the reversible common motor to drive the first means for driving during rotation of the motor in a first direction, and means for connecting the reversible common motor to drive the second means for driving during rotation of the motor in a second direction, opposite to the first direction. The above, and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate the same elements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit of an apparatus for measuring a fluid according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram for a portion of the control system of FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a side view, partly in cross-section, of a control system and detector according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross section of one of the valves depicted in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross section of one of the syringes depicted in FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown, generally at 8, a liquid measurement system according to an embodiment of the invention. A detector 40, for measuring a number and size of particles in blood, is immersed in a diluted specimen 54 contained in a beaker 52. An electrolyte is used for the diluent in diluent specimen 54. The electrolyte and particles in the specimen to be measured have different electrical resistances. An aperture plate 42 has a minute hole 43 therein communicating between the outside and inside of cylindrical detector 40. A first electrode 51 is disposed inside detector 40, and a second electrode 53 is disposed in diluted specimen 54 outside detector 40. A detecting device 55 monitors the electrical resistance between electrode 51 and electrode 53. A switchable valve 56 alternately connects fluid from a diluting liquid tub 60 and a syringe liquid tub 58 to the junction of an isolating chamber Z1 and a valve V2. A valve V1 leads from isolating chamber Z1 to a tube 46, whose end is located inside cylindrical detector 40, and to a syringe C1. A piston P1, in syringe C1, is driven to inspirate and aspirate fluid in sequence with other operations of liquid measurement system 8. Valve V2 is connected through a valve V3 to a tube 50 whose end is immersed in diluted specimen 54 in beaker 52. A junction of valves V2 and V3 is connected through a colorimeter 48 and a valve V4 to a syringe C2. A piston P7 in syringe C2 is driven to inspirate and aspirate fluid in sequence with other operations of liquid measurement system 8. A line 49 is connected from cylindrical detector 40, through an isolating chamber Z2 and a valve V5 to syringe C2. A waste liquid tub 64 receives waste liquid from syringe C2. A check valve 62 prevents return flow of liquid from waste liquid tub 64 to syringe C2. A separate portion of control system 11 prepares diluted specimens for use in the measurement operation. A syringe C4 receives diluting liquid (electrolyte) from a diluting liquid tub 70. A check valve 68 prevents return of the liquid to diluting liquid tub 70. A piston P10 is driven to inspirate and aspirate diluting liquid to and from syringe C4 in sequence with other operations. A specimen syringe C3 is connected to syringe C4 through a valve V6. Syringe C3 is also connected to a pipet 66. A piston P8 is driven to inspirate and aspirate the sample to be tested in sequence with other operations. Isolating chambers Z1 and Z2 provide relatively large volumes in series with the flow of fluids, thereby isolating elements downstream thereof from upstream flow vibrations. As will be further detailed hereinafter, three operations are performed during a cycle of control system 11. That is, 1) the number of particles in a fixed volume of diluted specimen 54 is counted, 2) the concentration of hemoglobin in diluted specimen 54 is measured, and 3) a new diluted specimen is prepared. The timing diagram in FIG. 2 shows the sequence of valve and syringe actuations making up a cycle of the particle-counting and hemoglobin-measurement operations of liquid measurement system 8. The horizontal axis of the timing diagram is divided into 360 degrees, representing one cycle of the counting and measurement operations of control system 11. As will become apparent hereinafter, the sample-preparation operation takes place in a separate cycle. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 together, from 0 to about 10 degrees, all valves remain closed and syringe C1 is moved in the aspirating direction. This forces some fluid from syringe C1 through tube 46 to clear any possible clogging particles therein. At about 20 degrees, valves V1 and V5 are opened. At about 40 degrees, syringe C2 is actuated in the aspirating direction. This causes a flow of syringe liquid to flow from syringe liquid tub 58, through isolating chamber Z1, valve V1, tube 46, cylindrical detector 40, line 49, isolating chamber Z2 and valve V5 to syringe C2. This flow purges these elements of materials remaining from a prior measurement. At the same time, syringe C1 is actuated in the aspirating direction to discharge any material remaining therein into the flow of material to syringe C2. This continues to about 60 degrees. At about 75 degrees, valves V1 and V5 are closed, and valves V2 and V4 are opened. At about 80 degrees, syringes C1 and C2 are actuated in the inspirating direction. Syringe C2 draws a clean supply of dilution liquid from diluting liquid tub 60 through valve V2, colorimeter 48 and valve V4. This purges any remaining material in colorimeter 48, and fills colorimeter 48 with a clean supply of dilution liquid which can then be used for a baseline measurement of light transmission. Syringe C1 begins to draw in a predetermined fixed quantity of diluted specimen 54 from which the number of particles are to be counted. Syringe C1 continues this inspiration from about 80 degrees to about 330 degrees. At about 100 degrees, syringe C2 stops inspiration. At about 110 degrees, valves V2 and V4 are closed. At about 155 degrees, valves V3 and V4 are opened. At about 165 degrees, syringe C2 is actuated in the inspirating direction. This draws a sample of diluted specimen 54 through tube 50, valve V3, colorimeter 48 and valve V4 into syringe C2. As the sample of diluted specimen 54 is drawn through colorimeter 48, the amount of hemoglobin in diluted specimen 54 is determined by measuring the attenuation of light passing through the portion of diluted specimen 54 in colorimeter 48. At about 195 degrees, actuation of syringe C2 is halted. At about 200 degrees, valves V3 and V4 are closed. At about 240 degrees, valves V2 and V4 are opened. At about 265 degrees, syringe C2 is actuated in the inspirating direction. This again draws syringe liquid from syringe liquid tub 58 through colorimeter 48 to purge colorimeter 48 in preparation for the next cycle. At about 285 degrees, actuation of syringe C2 is halted. At about 300 degrees, valves V2 and V4 are closed. At about 310 degrees, syringe C2 is actuated in the ejecting direction. This expels all fluid accumulated in syringe C2 during prior phases through check valve 62 into waste liquid tub 64. This continues until 360 degrees. At about 330 degrees, actuation of syringe C1 is halted. At this time, syringe C1 has completed inspiration of the predetermined fixed quantity of diluted specimen 54. In addition to the above activities, the remaining part of control system 11 is engaged in preparing a diluted specimen for the next test. Initially, valve V6 is closed. Syringe C4 is actuated to draw in a predetermined fixed quantity of dilution fluid from diluting liquid tub 70. At the same time, syringe C3 is actuated to draw a predetermined fixed quantity of a specimen through pipet 66 from a container (not shown) containing the specimen. The ratio of the quantities of liquid drawn into syringes C3 and C4 are such that, when the quantities are mixed, the desired dilution of the specimen is attained. On completion of the inspiration of specimen and dilution fluid, valve V6 is opened and syringes C3 and C4 are actuated in the aspirating direction. The liquids therein are expelled through pipet 66 into a suitable container such as a beaker 52, in preparation for the next test. Referring now also to FIG. 3, control system 11 is implemented as a unitary assembly which includes all of valves V1-V6, syringes C1-C4, as well as the remainder of the elements shown schematically in FIG. 1. A supporter 22 contains first and second aligned bearings 12 and 14. A shaft 10 is rotatably supported in bearings 12 and 14. A reversible motor 16 is mounted on supporter 22 through a fixture 18. Motor 16 drives shaft 10 through a connecting member 20. One-directional clutches 24 and 26 are disposed on shaft 10 within a cylindrical member 32. One-directional clutches 24 and 26 transmit torque to cylindrical member 32 only in response to rotation of shaft 10 in a single direction. A second pair of one-directional clutches 28 and 30 are disposed on shaft 10 within a second cylindrical member 34. When looking from the side of motor 16, one-directional clutches 24 and 26 transmit torque to cylindrical member 32 when shaft 10 spins in the right-hand direction (the direction of advance of a right-hand screw), and is incapable of transmitting torque when shaft 10 spins in the opposite direction. From the same perspective, one-directional clutches 28 and 30 and are capable of transmitting torque to cylindrical member 34 only when shaft 10 spins in the left-hand direction. One-directional clutches 24 and 26 are called a first group of one-direction clutches, and one-directional clutches 28 and 30 are called a second group of one-direction clutches. Cams K1-K7 are fixed on cylindrical member 32, and are called a first group of cams. Cams K8-K10 are fixed on cylindrical member 34, and are called a second group of cams. The first group of cams perform the actuating functions for valves V1-V5 and syringes C1-C2. The second group of cams perform the actuating functions for valve V6 and syringes C3-C4. When shaft 10 spins in the right-hand direction, one-directional clutches 24 and 26 drive cylindrical member 32, and cams K1-K7, affixed thereon, in the right-hand direction. During right-hand rotation of shaft 10, cylindrical member 34, and cams K8-K10 thereon, remain stationary. When shaft 10 spins in the left-hand, cylindrical member 34, and cams K8-K10, affixed thereon, are also driven in the left-hand direction. During left-hand rotation of shaft 10, cylindrical member 32, and cams K1-K7, affixed thereon, remain stationary. A plurality of holes in supporter 22 each contains one of pistons P1-P10. Each hole also includes one of springs S1-S10 to urge its respective piston upward into contact with its respective cam K1-K10. Cam K0 and a sensor (not shown on the drawings) detect a rotation angle of cams in the first group, K1-K7. Cam K11 and a sensor (not shown on the drawings) detect a rotation angle of the second group of cams, K8-K10. A cylinder block 36 is affixed below supporter 22. A cylinder block 38 is affixed below cylinder block 36. Cylinder block 36 includes cavities A1-A10, aligned with pistons P1-P10. Cylinder blocks 38 also includes cavities B2-B10 aligned with similarly subscripted cavities in cylinder block 36. The pistons and cavities in FIG. 3 form all of the syringes and valves of FIG. 1. Syringe C1 is formed by cavity A1 and piston P1. Syringe C2 is formed by cavities A7 and B7 and piston P7. Syringe C3 is formed by cavities A8 and B8 and piston P8. Syringe C4 is formed by cavities A10 and B10 and piston P10. Valve V1 is formed by piston P2 and cavities A2 and B2. Valve V2 is formed by piston P3 and cavities A3 and B3. Valve V3 is formed by piston P4 and cavities A4 and B4. Valve V4 is formed by piston P5 and cavities A5 and B5. Valve V5 is formed by piston P6 and cavities A6 and B6. Valve V6 is formed by piston P9 and cavities A9 and B9. The operation of the fluid circuit is explained below. A liquid specimen is prepared during rotation of shaft 10 in the left-hand direction. Cams K1-K7 of the first group of cams remain stationary while cams K8-K10 of the second group of cams spin in the left-hand direction. Cam K9 initially holds piston P9 stationary in the closed position, thus maintaining valve V6 closed. Syringe C4 draws in a predetermined amount (e.g. 5 ml) of diluting liquid from diluting liquid tub 70. At the same time, syringe C3 draws in a predetermined amount (e.g. 20 microliters) of blood, which is the liquid specimen, from pipet 66. When shaft 10 reaches a predetermined angle in its left-hand rotation (e.g. 150 degrees), cam K9 moves piston P9 upward into the open position of valve V6. At about this time cams K8 and K10 begin urging pistons P8 and P10 in the downward direction to force the fluids from syringes C3 and C4 out of control system 11 through pipet 66 and into an external container (not shown). When shaft 10 reaches its original rotational position, cam K11, together with its sensor, senses this condition and halts left-hand rotation of motor 16, thereby ending the sample-preparation part of the operation. Motor 16 is then driven through a cycle in the right-hand direction to produce the valve and syringe actions for counting and measuring described in the foregoing. Upon shaft 10 returning to its initial rotational position, cam K0, with its detector, terminate right-hand rotation of motor 16, thereby completing the counting and measuring operation. In one method of using the apparatus, red blood corpuscles are hemolyzed, and hemoglobin is eluted by adding a small amount (e.g. 100 microliters) of a hemolyzing liquid drop by drop to the mixture in a beaker. Leukocytes are not hemolyzed. Diluted specimen 54 is diluted about 250 times. The volume capacity of tube 46 can be increased to make it greater than the predetermined fixed quantity of fluid drawn in by syringe C1 to perform the measurement of particles in diluted specimen 54. The volume capacity of syringe C1 is increased by coiling tube 46 to increase its length. In this way, diluted specimen 54 is prevented from entering syringe C1, thus preventing contamination of syringe C1. The cylinders used in the invention do not have to be separated, and may be constructed as desired. If it is desired to count the number of leukocytes and the amount of hemoglobin in a predetermined fixed quantity of the specimen, hemolysis is necessary. However, hemolysis is not required to count the number of red blood corpuscles. To count the number of red blood corpuscles, the prepared diluted specimen is further diluted about 62,500 times and placed in beaker 52. The difference in size between leukocytes and red blood corpuscles may require that the diameter of minute hole 43 be adjusted so that a suitable electrical signal is produced as a particle passes therethrough. One skilled in the art would have no difficulty in determining a suitable hole size, given the present disclosure. One-directional clutches 24, 26, 28 and 30 allow the samplepreparation and measurement operations to be performed using a single reversible motor 16. Other techniques could be employed to achieve the same effect. For example, it is within the contemplation of the invention that both types of operation could be performed at the same time during a single rotation of shaft 10. However, the reversible operation of the preferred embodiment permits control system 11 to be built compactly and at low cost. All of valves V1-V6 operate in essentially the same way. Thus, the following description of valve V1 will suffice as a complete description of all of the valves. Referring now to FIG. 4, an O-ring E2 at the junction of supporter 22 and cylinder block 36 seals the junction between these two elements and also seals against piston P2. A second O-ring F2 at the junction of cylinder blocks 36 and 38 seals the junction between these two elements and against piston P2 to form a sealable chamber A2 between itself and O-ring E2. A path T21 enters the sealable chamber A2 through cylinder block 36. Chamber B2, below O-ring F2 is joined by a path T22. When piston P2 is in the lowered (closed) position shown, O-ring F2 is in sealing contact with piston P2, and thereby prevents liquid communication between paths T21 and T22. When piston P2 is raised so that its peripheral surface is out of contact with O-ring F2, liquid communication between paths T21 and T22 is enabled. One end of tube 46 (FIG. 1) is connected to path T21. The other end of tube 46 passes into cylindrical detector 40. Path T21 is also connected to syringe C1. Path T22 is connected to isolating chamber Z1 (FIG. 1). The embodiment of the present invention also allows elimination of errors caused by the presence of the air in the syringes. In particular, the expansion and contraction of air in syringe C4 can cause quantitative errors. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 5 eliminates the trapping of air bubbles which can lead to such errors. Referring to FIG. 5, there is shown a piston P10a which, together with cavity B10a, forms syringe C4. The bottom 73 of piston P10a is a generally conical surface 74. Conical surface 74 of bottom 73 helps prevent the trapping of air bubbles below piston P10a by permitting them to float upward along its surface. A spiral groove 72 in the interior surface of cavity A10a helps the evacuation of trapped air bubbles. Therefore, bubbles of air travel up along conical surface 74 and then along spiral groove 72 to be ejected from syringe C4 through path T101. One skilled in the art, with the present disclosure for reference, would be fully enabled to define the shapes of cams K1-K11 to perform the valve and fluid-displacement functions described herein. Thus, further description of the shapes of cams K1-K11 is omitted herefrom. The apparatus for measuring the test liquid of the present invention has a number of advantages in comparison with prior art devices. It can be easily miniaturized, and its cost may be less. Having described preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
A control system for a particle detector for detecting particles of blood components in an electrolyte employs sets of cams mounted on one-way clutches, which are positioned on a shaft of a motor. When the shaft is rotated by the motor in a clockwise direction, one set of cams moves together with the shaft, and when the shaft is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, another set of cams rotates in the counterclockwise direction. The rotation of cams controls movement of pistons which, together with cavities, form syringes and valves interconnected with passages. The valves and syringes are operated in sequence to prepare a specimen for measurement, to perform the measurement, and to clean up and purge the system between measurements.
6
This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119, from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/291,414 for “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACTIVATING AN ISOLATED DEVICE,” filed on Dec. 31, 2009 by Kyle Karren and Athanasios Gkourlias, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The present disclosure is directed to controlling a device/circuit contained within a hermetically sealed unit using a non-mechanical stimuli, and more particularly controlling a complete discharge circuit within a sealed housing, in order to neutralize a battery's potential using a non-contact external actuation. BACKGROUND & SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE A complete discharge device (CDD) generally consists of a resistive load component and an activation component to complete a resistive short circuit between the terminals of a battery, for the purpose of discharging residual power. The incorporation of a CDD into a lithium battery is primarily intended to expend the residual energy remaining in an otherwise functionally depleted battery, thereby making the lithium non-reactive and inert. Interestingly, a study conducted on various lithium-sulfur dioxide (Li—SO 2 ) batteries by the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) shows that Li—SO 2 batteries when discharged through the use of a CDD, to a voltage of less than one volt, per cell, are considered to be non-reactive. This fact is significant because in most regions, non-reactive lithium-sulfur dioxide meets the criteria as non-hazardous waste for disposal purposes, but only when equipped with a CDD. The absence of a CDD often necessitates a disposal process including costly procedures for the handling and disposition of hazardous waste materials. Therefore, the complete discharge of a lithium sulfur dioxide battery, as well as similar batteries, is believed essential to alter the classification of the battery from hazardous to non-hazardous waste. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments provide for controlling or activating a complete discharge circuit within a sealed housing, for example, by positioning a magnetic field adjacent the sealed battery housing to activate the complete discharge circuitry. A Conventional CDD includes various switches in combination with an activation method to short circuit the battery terminals using a power dissipation means, such as a load resistor. Examples of batteries with conventional complete discharge devices are the BA-5590 (Li/S02) battery, as manufactured by Saft America, Inc. Bagvolet, France and the BA-5390 as manufactured by Ultralife Corporation, Newark, N.Y. For example, spring contacts biased toward each other, and an insulating pull-tab arrangement between them, are used in conjunction with a resistive discharge circuit. It is also believed that other circuit activation means include a rigid plastic rod that is pushed into the battery to activate the discharge operation (e.g., Li/S02 battery cells formerly manufactured by Hawker Energy Products, Inc., now EnerSys Energy Products Inc., of Warrensburg, Mo.). Nonetheless, while suitable for battery energy depletion, the known schemes include inherent shortcomings with the use of an insulating pull-tab, or a rod, both from a manufacturing, as well as a performance and utility standpoint. For instance, if the spring contact loses its bias, the removal of the pull-tab would fail to activate the circuit. Similarly, the tab material must be resistant to deformation or penetration by the contacts, and must be resistant to movement until complete discharge is required. A further potential problem, when using a tab or material between the contacts, is that residual material, oxidation and/or corrosion may accumulate on the contacts thereby prohibiting the activation of the discharge circuit. Finally, and perhaps foremost, an inserted tab is generally invasive within the battery case itself, thereby requiring an aperture for it to pass through; consequently, the cells have limited protection from the ambient environment due to a breach of the enclosure, most notably submersion in a liquid. Batteries used in military application, for example, are often required to endure exposure to, or immersion in, salt water to a considerable depth without discharging. Also, military specifications may require that certain types of lithium based batteries be manufactured with a CDD that is manually activated to assure complete discharge once the battery has been taken out of service. It should be noted that it is also desirable, and possibly required, to include a state of charge indicator that can be activated on demand, to determine the remaining charge/capacity (or presence thereof) within in the battery. One of the potential alternatives to mechanical actuation of a CDD in a battery relies on the use of light to activate a photo-sensitive switch. However, this has, in many cases, proved to be inadequate due to the probability of mistakenly discharging a battery with inadvertent light reaching the sensor and unintentionally activating the CDD. Moreover, in some cases, the intensity of the ambient light breaches the shutter used to shield the sensor. Obviously, the converse is equally problematic wherein there is insufficient ambient light available when complete battery discharge is desirable. Although a light source may be built into the battery to assist in activating the complete discharge device, the need for a built in light source adds superfluous cost and complexity to a single use, simplistic battery design. In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, the use of an external non-mechanical stimuli, such as external fields (e.g., magnetic fields) provides for remote activation for controlling the state of a CDD located within a sealed battery housing. In one example an electro or permanent magnetic field source is directed through a non-ferrous region of a battery housing to activate the operation of an internal circuit, CDD and/or state of charge indicators, for example. Accordingly, the magnetic field is encouraged to permeate the outer housing and thereby mitigate the need to physically pass through the housing to activate a discharge circuit. In one embodiment, magnetic field sensors may include non-contact sensing devices based on the Hall-effect principle, whereby a voltage differential is sensed in a conductor as a function of the presence of either a parallel or perpendicular magnetic field, which in turn forward biases a solid state switch. Consequently, magnetic fields are able to pass directly through non-ferrous materials, thereby eliminating the need for direct physical contact to activate a switch connected to the CDD. However, a Hall-effect switch requires power in order to sense the change in field direction, and the actual Hall sensor must be positioned between the poles of the external magnet, which may lead to a unique battery housing form factor. As the Hall-effect switch is an active component, it provides a constant power drain during the entire life cycle of the battery, thereby reducing the power available to operate a device. Accordingly it may not be a suitable alternative in many applications. Several disclosed embodiments employ a passive, reed type switch within a sealed housing to complete the discharge circuit when activation is required. The reed switch is a continuity device consisting of a pair of electrical contact points located on at least two metal fingers having the contact end portions separated by a small air gap on the distal end and having the proximal ends hermetically sealed within a tubular glass envelope. At least one of the reed fingers is made from a magnetic/conductive material and is operable when positioned in the proximity of an applied magnetic field, for example, a permanent magnet or an electro-magnet. Such a switching device is passive and therefore does not require or draw power in order to be operational. Conventionally, there are two reed switch configurations: “normally open” and “normally closed” positions. The metal reeds on a normally open (NO) switch stay open when there is no magnet field in proximity of the switch. In the presence of a magnetic field, the contacts of a normally-open reed switch will close thereby making contact. Conversely, a normally-closed (NC) reed switch is closed when it is not near a magnet field; but will open the contacts in the presence of a magnet, thereby breaking contact. The aforementioned magnetic field sensors are not considered to be exclusive to a CDD, on the contrary isolated or externally remote activation of an internal control circuit is well suited for devices such as cameras, computers, GPS, cell phones and the like that may be further adaptable for use in hostile environments by sealing the devices in a housing that is only permeable to a magnetic or other field. Therefore, any devices operating in a sealed environment, could be activated (and/or deactivated) by non-mechanical stimuli such as magnetic sources outside the sealed unit, that would trigger or displace magnetically sensitive components sealed within the unit. It is desirable to provide a system for activating a device or circuit in a sealed housing that enables activation using an externally applied non-mechanical stimuli, such as magnetic fields, visible light, infra-red, acoustics, pressure, or radio frequencies, for example. It is further contemplated that in accordance with an alternative embodiment, a CDD may include internal battery terminals connected to the external battery terminals, whereby an internal switch provides an electrical connection to the exposed terminals and, upon disposal, the switch is placed in an open state. Additionally, it is conceivable to provide a resistive discharge path in combination with an external terminal disconnection means from the internal battery. In accordance with embodiments described herein, there is provided a battery system including a complete discharge device within a sealed housing, comprising: (a) a passive switch component sensitive to a non-mechanical stimuli, said switch component (e.g., reed switch) located within the sealed housing; (b) a magnetic field source (e.g., magnetic coil, permanent magnet), said magnetic field source being physically separated from said switch component by the housing, wherein said continuity component is responsive to a variation in the magnetic field caused by relative motion between the magnetic field source and switch component; and (c) a complete discharge circuit, located inside the housing and operatively controlled by said switch component, such that upon activation by said switch component the complete discharge circuit depletes the energy potential within the battery. According to further aspects of embodiments described herein there is provided a system for activating a device, comprising: (a) a passive switch, said switch being responsive to a non-mechanical stimuli (e.g., a change in a local magnetic field); (b) a source of non-mechanical stimuli, the source located at a position separated from said sensor and the device; and (c) a circuit, connected to said passive switch wherein the circuit is controlled by said switch and where said switch is responsive to a variation in the non-mechanical stimuli. According to yet another aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a method for controlling the activation of continuous discharge device in a sealed battery housing, comprising: (a) varying a non-mechanical stimuli (e.g., a magnetic field), using a source located outside the housing and physically separated from the continuous discharge device, the housing being permeable to a magnetic field; (b) detecting the variance of the magnetic field using a passive switch component; and (c) in response to the switch component (e.g., SCR or triac), activating the continuous discharge device. It should be appreciated that instead of an SCR, any solid state or mechanical relay may also be used in order to connect the discharge device In embodiments, a NO/NC reed switch may be used and each lead connected to the activation or deactivation pin, respectively. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The embodiments disclosed herein may take form in various components and arrangements of components, and in various steps and arrangements of steps. The drawings are only for purposes of illustrating the embodiments and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure or the appended claims. FIG. 1 illustrates a reed switch and an exemplary magnetic field source; FIG. 2 depicts an overview of a magnetic field acting to initiate a circuit; FIG. 3 is a partial cutaway view showing the circuit board to the magnet source orientation, in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 2 , FIG. 4 is a functional electrical diagram illustrating an embodiment of a complete discharge circuit configuration; FIG. 5 is a functional electrical diagram illustrating an internal positive terminal connection/disconnection circuit configuration; FIG. 6 is a conceptual illustration of a spring biased sliding magnet; and, FIG. 7 is a schematic circuit including a field effect transistor The various embodiments described herein are not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments described. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION For a general understanding of the embodiments, reference is made to the drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals have been used throughout to designate identical or equivalent elements. It is also noted that the various drawings illustrating the embodiments are not drawn to scale and that certain regions may have been purposely drawn disproportionately so that the features and concepts disclosed herein may be properly illustrated. Referring to FIG. 1 , there is shown an example of a magnetic field source 210 in relation to a sensor or switch 140 . Although various magnetic materials may be employed as the source of the magnetic field, it is believed that commonly available ferromagnetic materials (e.g., iron, nickel, cobalt) have a suitable flux density and coercive force for non-mechanical activation of a switch component. The arrangement of the magnet assembly, depicted in FIG. 1 , is a thin, possibly flexible strip of ferromagnetic material mounted or affixed to a pliable tab or label 220 . Tab 220 may have pressure sensitive adhesive thereon or similar means permitting it to be removably attached to a housing or similar structure in proximity to the battery. Referring also to FIG. 2 , the mounting of the magnetic field source (e.g., magnet) 210 on tab 220 facilitates the removal of the magnetic field source 210 as the tab is pulled away from housing 110 , along with magnetic field source 210 , from within retention depression 212 . Switch 140 may include a reed type switch that includes a passive mechanical contactor for electrical current. In one embodiment, reed switch 118 comprises two identical flat ferromagnetic reeds, 110 and 112 , sealed in a dry inert-gas atmosphere within a glass capsule or similar, thereby protecting the contacts from contamination. The reeds are affixed in the capsule in a cantilever form so that their free ends overlap and are separated by a small air gap. The reed switch includes a pair of electrical contact points on metal fingers separated by a small air gap on the distal end and having the proximal ends hermetically sealed within a tubular glass envelope. At least one of the reed fingers, or at least a portion thereof, is made from a magnetic/conductive material and is operable or moves when positioned in the proximity of an applied magnetic field, for example, a permanent magnet or an electro-magnet. More specifically, when a magnetic field is generated parallel to the reed switch, the reeds become flux carriers in a magnetic circuit and the overlapping ends 114 of the reeds become opposite magnetic poles, which attract each other. If the magnetic force between the poles is strong enough to overcome the restoring force of the reeds, the reeds are drawn together, thus providing electrical continuity between the contacts. The reed-type switching device is passive and, therefore, does not require or draw power in order to be operational. As noted previously, there are two types of reed switches: “normally open” and “normally closed” reed switches. The electrically conductive reeds, 118 and 112 respectively, on a normally closed switch open only when there is a magnetic field near the switch. In the disclosed embodiment, given the presence of a magnetic field, the contacts of a NC reed switch will remain open. Reed switch 140 contains at least a pair of electrically conductive metal reeds, which have contact end portions 114 separated by a small air gap when the switch is open (non-conducting). Typically, the reeds are each hermetically sealed in opposite ends of tubular glass envelope of switch 118 . Notably, the hermetic sealing of a reed switch 140 makes them suitable for use in explosive atmospheres, where electrical arcing from conventional switches may constitute a hazard. However, cost considerations may inevitably eliminate the glass envelope of the reed switch, as they are further located within the sealed battery enclosure thus making the envelope redundant. Again, it is noted that a battery with enclosed electronics is only one example of utilizing a non-mechanical stimuli such as magnetic activation to control an isolated switch. Although described relative to the activation of circuitry within a sealed battery housing, the disclosed embodiments are also applicable to other embodiments where an isolated or embedded switch is to be activated. In the following figures, more detail is provided regarding the battery related embodiments described above. Referring again to FIG. 2 , sealed battery 310 is enclosed within housing 110 , along with various circuit components to completely discharge battery 310 upon user demand. Reed switch 140 provides a non-invasive method to control the internal electronics necessary for discharging the electrical potential of the battery. Accordingly, sealed housing 110 encloses and isolates the complete discharge device or circuits that are held in an inactive status during the life of battery 310 , by an ever present externally applied magnetic field source 210 situated within depression 212 of the battery housing 110 , located in the proximity of internal reed switch 140 . In the absence of a magnetic field, NC reed switch 140 closes, thereby providing a voltage to trigger silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) 350 , or a similar semi-conductor device, which is “locked” or forward biased to allow current to pass through load resistor 352 until battery 310 is depleted of substantially all electrical potential. Notably, the magnetic source 210 and reed switch 140 should be in place before the CDD is connected to assure no premature discharge of the battery. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 3 , a magnetic field source 210 is operatively affixed within depression 212 , at a position on the outside of sealed housing 110 , in proximity to reed switch 140 . Reed switch 140 (e.g., a normally-open or normally-closed device) may be used as a passive switch to conduct an electrical current that is subsequently used to forward bias a semi-conductor component, such as a thermister, selenium controlled rectifier (SCR), a triac, or insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) for example, for the purpose of activating a complete discharge device. Alternatively, reed switch 140 may be a nominally open switch and on its own operate in the manner of a switch suitable for providing a limited current flow directly through resistor 352 , in response to variation in an externally applied magnetic field. The magnetic field source (magnet or magnetic coil) used to actuate the sensor 140 can be provided by most any object that exhibits the characteristics of a magnetic field. However, in consideration of power conservation an electro-magnet, while providing substantially more magnetic force, could potentially yield an undesirable continual current drain on the battery. The same would be true for a dynamic electronic switch, such as a Hall-effect detector, which necessitates a continual standby circuit drain on the battery or other power source to be operable. In this regard mechanical reed switch 140 provides a significant advantage as a passive switching device, dependent only upon a change in magnetic field for operability. As further illustrated in FIG. 3 housing 110 is designed to be impervious or impermeable to the surrounding atmosphere, especially salt water, hence the requirement for a non-invasive and passive external control of battery operation. As a further aspect of the embodiment, a second reed switch 142 could conceivably be associated with a circuit designed to indicate the remaining charge in the battery. In this situation, due to the current measurement required to ascertain the remaining battery power, a momentary switch 214 is activated by, for example, sliding magnetic field source 210 , within cavity 212 , over reed switch 142 . Once the battery life is displayed a spring could return magnet 210 , of momentary switch 214 , to a neutral position, allowing reed switch 142 to return to the normally open position. Notably, this switch embodiment is adaptable to either normally closed or open operation, and can be momentary in either configuration. Now, referring to FIG. 4 , the electrical elements of an exemplary complete discharge device are presented, including as at least three functional elements; (i) switching circuit 306 , (ii) complete discharging load connection 304 and (iii) discharge indicator 302 . As previously noted, reed switch 140 essentially provides the trigger current from a voltage divider comprising resistors 146 and 144 to the battery current discharge circuit within section 304 , in this case SCR 350 . Load resistor 352 is used to dissipate the heat generated from the current of the residual battery power (watts), as a function of voltage times the current [P=(I)(E)]. Once triggered, SCR 350 will remain in a conductive state until the current drop across resistor 352 falls below 3 mA. Concurrently, as the residual power is being consumed and dissipated across resistor 352 , LED 345 provides an indication of such dissipation, for example, being illuminated during discharging and turning off once the battery discharge cycle has been completed. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that an electrical “latch” is preferred as the control for the CDD to assure complete or adequate discharge of the battery, wherein once discharge is initiated, regardless of any subsequent replacing of the magnetic field source 130 , discharge continues to completion. Therefore, it is noted that when SCR 350 is turned on by a positive gate current it will remain in the latched and forward conductive state, independent of the gate current initially passed from reed switch 140 , as long as the anode to cathode current remains above a specific holding level. For example, an industry standard SCR, such as C106 from Motorola and others, will conduct up to a maximum current of 4 amps (DC) and will subsequently turn off only when the current reaches a minimum holding level of 3 mA., which would be indicative of a fully discharged battery. Additionally, a visual discharge indicator, such as light emitting diode (LED) 345 is illuminated as long as current is being dissipated across load resistor 345 whereas at the time battery 310 is completely discharged LED 345 , will be off. An alternative embodiment for the use of a magnetically activated reed switch 140 , within battery case 110 , is shown in the functional schematic of FIG. 5 . Referring to FIG. 5 , an internal connection, caused by switch 140 and SCR 350 results in the external terminal 158 to substantially be one and the same as the internal terminal 530 of battery cell 310 . Alternatively, the same circuit within housing 110 could cause at least one of the battery terminals to be electrically isolated and disconnected from the external terminal 158 to prevent accidental discharge via a short circuit between the external terminals when not in service. Accordingly, FIG. 5 illustrates a general schematic including a battery terminal switching circuit whereby the DC power to positive terminal 530 is switchable from (i) an open external terminal for storage transporting and disposal to (ii) terminal 158 having positive power applied from internal terminal 530 , when in use. As is evident in FIG. 5 , SCR 350 provides the basis for positive external terminal 158 to be electrically connected and/or disconnected from the primary cell(s) of battery 310 . When external magnet 210 is removed from battery case 110 , reed switch 140 detects a change in the magnetic field and gates SCR 350 which, in turn, is forward biased to allow the terminal 158 to be electrically in connection to the positive terminal 530 of battery 310 . FIG. 6 is yet another example of a system for magnetically motivating a passive internal switching device that is sealed within a housing. Like the mechanically biased reeds of the earlier embodiments, actuator 630 is also a magnet and is physically connected to a spring-biased slider switch 650 to activate an associated circuit. The position of actuator 630 is determined by the magnetic attraction of actuator 630 to the magnetic field source 620 and the opposing force of the attached spring 640 . When the magnetic field source 610 is moved a sufficient distance away from the actuator 630 , the force of the spring 640 overcomes the magnetic field force and actuator 630 changes position to an off state. Magnetic field source 220 is mounted outside of housing 110 and is moveable. In this embodiment, actuator 630 comprises a simple magnet whereby the alignment of the poles with magnetic source 220 poles causes actuator 630 and thereby a contactor in switch 650 to move towards the closed direction. On the other hand, opposing pole alignment (e.g. N→S and S→N), in combination with spring 640 may be used to cause switch 650 to be held in a normally closed position. Referring next to FIG. 7 , depicted therein is a circuit that may be used in accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein. Although the circuit symbols and labels depict particular characteristics of the components, it should be appreciated that such information is for purposes of describing the circuit, and that alternative characteristics or components may be used or substituted to accomplish a similar function. For example, the value of the SCR load resistor 706 could vary depending upon the battery and the desired rate of the discharge. In operation selenium controlled rectifier (SCR) 716 will forward conduct once the magnetic field is removed from normally closed reed or similar switch 704 , which then opens, thereby placing the load resistor 706 directly across the terminals of battery 702 , in order to bleed off any residual energy. Accordingly, light emitting diode 720 will be on as long as there is a voltage drop across load resistor 706 . Concurrently, the disconnect circuit relies on comparator 708 to sense the opening of switch 704 in order to gate MOSFET 714 , which in turn disconnects the internal ground return from the external negative terminal. Although the various embodiments described herein are directed to the activation of a device or circuit in a sealed housing using a non-mechanical stimuli, for example, in response to a change in an externally applied magnetic field, it is understood that aspects of the disclosed embodiments may also be suitable for use with alternative energy types or fields. While various examples and embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the spirit and scope of the disclosure are not limited to the specific description and drawings herein, but extend to various equivalents thereof as well as other modifications and changes.
Disclosed is a system and method for controlling the activation of isolated circuitry, and more particularly complete discharge devices for batteries, and similar circuits that are enclosed within sealed housings.
8
BACKGROUND--FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to internal combustion rotary engines having rotors that move inside a cylindrical cavity with cyclic rotary motion superposed on uniform rotary motion. It is concerned specifically with a glow ignition system whereby such engines can be operated with other fuels instead of being limited to methanol-based fuels as are other glow ignition engines. BACKGROUND--PRIOR USE OF GLOW IGNITION SYSTEMS Glow ignition for internal combustion engines was introduced in the late 1940's by Arden as described in the book by Gierke (2-Stroke Glow Engines for R/C Aircraft, pp 21-24). Glow ignition rapidly replaced the spark ignition systems that were previously used because it was simpler, lighter weight, lower cost, and more reliable. However, it required the use of methanol-based fuels and hence was utilized only in very small engines used to propel model airplanes, model boats and model cars. In a glow ignition system, a coil of platinum alloy wire contained in the glow plug is heated by passing current through it while the engine is started. After the engine has been started, the battery supplying current to the coil is removed and the engine not only continues to run, but also can be throttled from high speeds to lower speeds without the use of a separate mechanism to control the time of ignition. There are several reasons that this is possible, namely a) the platinum wire element serves as a catalyst for oxidation of the methanol, b) the fuel-air mixture is heated by compression, and c) the glow plug element looses heat to the cylinder head and to the fresh fuel-air intake mixture before this mixture has been compressed to the point where ignition can take place. The balance between heating and cooling of the glow element establishes the time at which ignition takes place. As the engine speeds up under throttle control, the glow element cools less between cycles and the ignition time is advanced, much like the automatic advance systems used in spark ignition engines. An earlier time of ignition is promoted by the use of a glow plug that cools less between cycles (a so-called "hot plug") and a later time of ignition is promoted by the use of a plug that cools more between cycles (a so-called "cold plug") as described in Gierke's book, pp. 28 & 29. One of the serious disadvantages of the conventional glow ignition system is that it cannot be used with fuels other than methanol or methanol-nitromethane mixtures. Methanol is an ideal fuel for use with glow ignition, but is more expensive and less readily available than gasoline in some countries. Addition of nitromethane cures some, but not all, of the problems of running glow ignition with gasoline--but it costs 10 times as much as methanol. If gasoline is used as a fuel in a glow ignition engine, there is a tendency for preignition and rough running as noted by Higley in his book (All About Engines, p.29). This results from the difference in properties of gasoline and methanol. First, ordinary gasoline has an octane rating of typically 87-92 compared with methanol which has an octane rating of 98 (refer to Obert, Internal Combustion Engines, p. 225). Second, gasoline has a higher specific energy content (43,000 kJ/kg) compared to methanol (19,700 kJ/kg), and it has a lower heat of vaporization (350-400 kJ/kg) compared to methanol (1000 kJ/kg) as stated by Thomas (refer to Chapter 5 in the book by Arcoumanis, Internal Combustion Engines, p. 263). Third, oxidation of gasoline is less readily catalyzed by the platinum alloy of a glow plug element than is methanol. Finally, the quantity of liquid fuel passing through an engine of given power output is less for gasoline which has a stoichiometric air-fuel ratio of 14.7 compared to 6.4 for methanol. Thus, the problems of using fuels other than methanol with glow ignition are many, and there is no single solution that will cure all of them. Adding nitromethane helps to avoid detonation by increasing the combustion time but is costly. Lowering the compression ratio is necessary to reduce the tendency for preignition but this lowers the efficiency and the power output. Providing more cooling of the engine to compensate for the smaller mass of fuel used and the lower heat of vaporization increases the engine weight. Using a colder plug improves the high speed operation but interferes with the ability of the engine to idle at low speed. In addition to these problems, a most serious disadvantage of glow ignition is one that is present even when methanol-based fuel is used. Once the design of the engine (and hence the compression ratio) is fixed and the glow plug and fuel formula are selected, the only parameter that can be used to adjust the ignition timing is the fuel-air mixture. This must be set on the fuel-rich side of the stoichiometric mixture in order to avoid detonation (refer to Peter Chinn's book, Model Four-stroke Engines, pp. 92-94). While this may be acceptable for very small engines that are used in limited numbers (e.g. model airplane engines), it is not acceptable for engines in wide usage because of poor fuel economy and excess unburned hydrocarbons in the exhaust. All of the disadvantages and problems of the use of glow ignition discussed in the foregoing are overcome by the present invention. OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION The object of this invention is to provide an engine which has the following advantages over conventional reciprocating-piston engines: a) larger intake and exhaust ports, b) no requirement for separate valves and camshaft, c) more uniform torque, d) less vibration, e) higher power-to-weight ratio, f) lower exhaust noise, g) lower exhaust temperature, h) higher overall efficiency, i) high efficiency over a wider range of speeds, j) operation with readily available automotive fuels, and k) operation with a simple, inexpensive and reliable ignition system. The first five of these advantages are inherent advantages of rotary engines over reciprocating-piston engines. The latter six of these advantages are provided specifically by the present invention. A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotary engine that overcomes the disadvantages of the Wankel rotary engine by having simpler construction, higher thermal efficiency and the possibility of more complete combustion of the fuel. The present invention is a form of rotary engine that has a simple glow ignition system and yet provides for operation with a variety of fuels. It affords the possibility of high efficiency with various types of fuels and also lower emissions than normally provided by engines with glow ignition and engines with two-stroke cycle operation. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The rotary engine of the present invention is similar to ones described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,179 and the references cited therein. It has two interdigitated rotors, each of which has two vanes located 180 degrees apart. The rotors move in a cylindrical cavity with cyclic rotary motion superposed on uniform rotary motion. One way to accomplish the desired motion consists of a planetary transmission gear with planet gears having half the radius of a fixed sun gear. The shafts connected to the planet gears contain cranks that drive connecting rods linked to cranks on the rotors. However, other mechanisms having internal and external gears, or elliptical gears, or cams could also be used. The two vanes of each of the rotors divide the cylindrical cavity into four chambers whose size changes in such a way that the four cycles of an Otto cycle engine occur in one revolution of the output shaft. As in U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,179, a variable compression ratio and an expansion ratio greater than compression ratio is obtained by venting the chamber in which compression occurs to an adjacent chamber by means of a duct connecting these two chambers. Ignition is done in the present invention by multiple glow plugs. At least one glow plug is located in the housing at an angular position that corresponds closely to the position where the compressed fuel-air mixture gas has minimum volume. In addition, one or more glow plugs are located at an angular position that corresponds to the position where the fuel-air mixture gas has not yet been compressed to its minimum volume. The first glow plug (or plugs) remains active at all times regardless of whether the engine is going fast or slow, while the second plug (or plugs) operates to cause ignition only when the engine is traveling at speeds higher than the idling speed. The operation of the two plugs in this way is possible because in reciprocating-vane rotary engines the volume of the compressed fuel-air mixture is moving while it is also changing its size. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES FIG. 1a, 1b, and 1c are exploded views of three alternative types of rotors of the type used in reciprocating-vane rotary engines. FIG. 2 shows a planetary gear drive for a rotary engine consisting of one sun gear and four planet gears. FIG. 3 shows the time dependence of the position of the vanes in a typical reciprocating-vane rotary engine. FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c are drawings which show different forms of rotary engines that have a glow plug ignition system and an expansion ratio greater than compression ratio. FIGS. 4aa, 4bb, and 4cc are drawings which show the type of glow plug used in the glow ignition system. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the position of the vanes when close to the ignition point relative to the location of the intake and exhaust ports and the location of the glow ignition plugs. FIG. 6 is a plot of the expansion ratio for complete expansion as a function of the compression ratio. FIG. 7 shows plots of the efficiency versus compression ratio for three different types of cycles. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The glow ignition system of the present invention is intended for use with a basic rotary engine of the so-called cat-and-mouse type. One form of such an engine utilizes two rotors connected to a planetary gear drive as in U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,179. In one version, rotor A consists of a circular end plate 1 having a hub 2 and diametrically opposed radial vanes 3 and 4. Similarly, rotor B consists of a circular end plate 6 having a hub 7 and diametrically opposed radial vanes 8 and 9. Rotor A has an axial shaft 5 rigidly attached to it. When the two rotors are interdigitated or nested together, a shaft 5 passes through an axial hole of appropriate size in rotor B so that rotor B is free to rotate about shaft 5. The two rotors seal may against each other on their contacting surfaces. A thrust bearing 10 located on shaft 5 constrains rotor B relative to rotor A and prevents the two rotors from moving apart. The rotors of FIG. 1a contain one or more sealing rings such as 90 and 91 located on the circumference of the circular end plates 1 and 6, as well as peripheral sealing strips 92 and 93, and radial sealing strips such as 94 and 95 located on the vanes 3, 4, and 8, 9. In large engines, these sealing strips are required in order to allow for differential thermal expansion of the rotors and the housing in which they are used. Alternative forms of the rotors are shown in FIG. 1b and FIG. 1c. Each of the rotors in FIG. 1b have a hub 2b (or 7b) and two vanes 3b and 4b (or 8b and 9b). The vanes have peripheral sealing strips, e.g. 92b and 93b, and radial sealing strips, e.g. 94b and 95b. In addition, the distal ends of the vanes contain radial sealing strips, e.g. 96b and 97b, and the distal faces of the hubs contain arcuate sealing strips, e.g. 98b and 99b. Sealing strips 98b and 99b may be connected to strips 96b an 97b by link blocks in a manner as is well known in rotary engine technology. FIG. 1c shows rotors similar to those shown in FIG. 1b but having hubs 2c and 7c whose distal ends extend beyond the vanes and contain sealing rings such as 100 and 101. It will be understood by those familiar with similar rotary engines that the inner partially cylindrical portion of the vanes of the rotors shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c could have sealing strips to improve the seal with the hub of the mating rotor. In addition, the proximal face of the hub of one rotor could have arcuate sealing strips like 98b and 99b to improve the seal with the face of the hub of the mating rotor. However, these sealing strips are less important than the ones shown in the Figures because the two rotors would usually be made of the same material and would operate at similar average temperatures. Alternatively, the hubs of the rotors shown in FIGS. 1b and 1c could be tapered and the seal between the mating surfaces could be maintained by a constraining means or a thrust bearing that allows the rotors to rotate relative to each other but prevents them from moving apart. A preferred form of planetary gear transmission system for the motion of the rotors shown in FIG. 2. This Figure shows a balanced gear transmission system with four planetary gears and a single sun gear. In this Figure, based on rotors of the type shown in FIG. 1a, letters a and b are used following numerals to denote similar parts on the same drawing. In this transmission system, a crank 18 connected to rotor A by a shaft 5 has two diametrically opposed arms containing two crank pins 17a and 17b that engage two connecting rods 19a and 19b. These connecting rods drive separate crank disks 21a and 21b (not shown) through two pins 20a and 20b (not shown). The crank disks 21a and 21b are connected to two diametrically opposed planet gears 22a and 22b by two shafts 23a and 23b. The planet gears 22a and 22b roll about a sun gear 27 having a hub 28 that is fixed to the gear housing (not shown). Rotor B has two diametrically opposed crank pins 16a and 16b that engage two connecting rods 29a and 29b. These connecting rods couple with two crank pins 30a (not shown) and 30b on separate crank disks 31a (not shown) and 31b. The crank disks drive diametrically opposed planet gears 32a and 32b via separate shafts 33a and 33b. In this balanced drive, the planet gears 22a and 22b are located at an angular position 90 degrees from the planet gears 32a and 32b about the axis of the planet cage 24. It can be seen from FIG. 2 that entire gear transmission has nearly perfect axial symmetry about the drive shaft. This not only provides for less vibration and higher operating speeds but also provides better balance of forces and the possibility of greater power transmission due to the doubling of the number of planet gears, crank disks, connecting rods and pins. When rotors of the type shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c are used with the planetary drive of FIG. 2, the rotors move with oscillatory angular motion superposed on uniform angular motion. For schematically representing this motion, we can use the following equation to represent the position of the vanes: θ(deg)=[2ωt+nπ+sin(2ωt+nπ)](180/π)(1) where θ is the angular position of a vane relative to the housing, ω is the angular velocity of the output shaft (rad/sec), t is the time, and n is an integer that is even or odd depending on the rotor. FIG. 3 shows plots derived from Eq. (1). The four spaces between the rotors are labeled chambers I, II, III and IV for a shaft angle between 0 and 90 degrees. While intake is occurring in chamber I, compression is occurring in chamber II, expansion is occurring in chamber III and exhaustion is occurring in chamber IV. For the planetary drive, the actual equation will be considerably more complicated and the curves will have slightly different shape. Nevertheless, FIG. 3 illustrates the important features of reciprocating-vane rotary engines, namely: a) as the rotors move about their axis, the volume between them changes size, from a maximum to a minimum twice as ωt changes by 360 degrees, b) the maximum volume occurs in one chamber between the vanes when minimum volume occurs in an adjacent chamber, c) the vanes have a dwell in their motion that always occurs at the same values of θ, and d) as the volume between the vanes changes size, the position of the centroid of that volume is also changing. The first three of these features provides the timing of the intake and exhaust portions of the four-stroke cycle. The last of these features provides for timing of the ignition. Moreover it also provides the possibility that ignition plugs can be located at more than one position in the housing (i.e. value of θ). An ignition plug at one position can correspond to a volume of the compressed fuel-air mixture close to the minimum volume while another ignition plug (or plugs) can correspond to a volume of the compressed mixture in advance of the position of minimum volume. This point will be discussed further in conjunction with FIG. 5. FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c show views of the rotary engine normal to the rotor axis. In FIG. 4a, as in FIG. 3, the four chambers representing the volume between the rotor vanes are labeled I, II, III and IV. In FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c a duct or passageway connects the chamber in which compression takes place (e.g II) back to the intake chamber (e.g. I. By passage of some of the fuel-air mixture through the duct, the net compression ratio becomes smaller than the expansion ratio. In FIG. 4a, a simple duct 70 in the wall of the cylindrical cavity 50 is used, as in the principle of "vented compression" described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,179. In FIG. 4b, the duct or passageway designated by 39 contains a pressure sensitive valve, as in the principle of "controlled vented compression" and in FIG. 4c, the duct designated by 39' contains a simple value which used to provide "adjustable vented compression". Also, in FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c, two glow ignition plugs 51a and 51b are shown. Plug 51a is located at position P1 and plug 52b is located at position P2. P1 and P2 differ principally in their angular location about the axis of the cylindrical cavity, although they may also be offset in the longitudinal direction (out of the plane of the drawing) in order to avoid interference with each other. The glow plugs, which are shown in detail in FIGS. 4aa, 4bb and 4cc, contain a coil of wire 52 consisting of a metal or alloy which has a high melting point and is suitable for ignition of the fuel air mixture. This coil has one end attached to the plug housing 53 and the other end attached to an insulated electrical feed-though as in conventional glow plugs. In FIG. 4b, the passageway 39 extending annularly around the cylindrical rotor housing may be a passageway located in the housing or in a separate duct outside the housing that has connections through the external radial wall of the housing. This passageway is provided with a one-way, pressure-activated control element, this is shown for purposes of illustration in FIG. 4b as a poppet valve 40 contacting a rocker arm 41 supported by a pivot 42 and loaded by a spring 43. The valve 40 may remain closed when the engine is running at high speed because air cannot flow fast enough into the intake to provide complete induction. However, at moderate speeds and especially when accelerating from low speeds, as compression takes place, the gas pressure builds up high enough to open the valve 40 and prevent over-compression which would result in preignition. In FIG. 4b, a screw 44 is used to adjust the spring force on the poppet valve 40 so that the compression ratio can be varied in order to accommodate various grades of gasoline or various alternate fuels. For example, a higher spring pressure would cause the poppet valve to remain closed longer and the compression ratio could be made higher. A suitable location of the port 45 of FIG. 4b or port 45' of FIG. 4c determines the base compression ratio for a given intake port position and vane width. Similarly, in FIG. 4a, the geometry establishes a base compression ratio. The compression ratio may be modified by the valves of FIG. 4b and FIG. 4c during engine operation. The valve 40' of FIG. 4c contains an adjustment structure 46 whereby the conductance of the duct 39' may be changed either manually or by a linkage to the engine throttle. An increase of the compression ratio to values greater than the base compression ratio will advance the point at which ignition occurs. This type of adjustment is important when gasoline-type fuels are used because, unlike methanol-containing fuel mixtures, gasoline does not have fixed volatility nor does it always have the same ignition characteristics in the presence of a hot catalyst. Gasolines that are used in automobiles are not simple mixtures of specific hydrocarbons; their formulations vary as a function of manufacturer, grade of gasoline, and seasonal or regional considerations. However, as far as the base compression ratio is concerned, for use with gasoline having an octane rating of 87, the base compression ratio should typically not be greater than 6 in order to avoid preignition problems. Fortunately, gasolines no longer contain tetraethyl lead but use alcohols as octane enhancers--resulting in better performance when using glow ignition due to the improved catalytic behavior. FIG. 5 shows details concerning the position of the vanes as a function of time. This figure shows the actual vane positions for the planetary gear drive system described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,179 for the following values of the parameters discussed therein: U=0.70, V=1.43, and L=2.55. The vanes shown have peripheral sealing strips, e.g. 93 and 94, and the position of the glow plugs P1, and P2, are indicated on this figure. The glow plug at position P1 is a "hot plug". It also retains heat due to being shielded most of the time by the rotors. This plug maintains the ignition when the engine is idling. The glow plug (or plugs) at position P2 is a cold plug. It should cool sufficiently between cycles so that the ignition point when the engine is running at high speed is advanced, but not advanced too far. Optimum ignition timing is adjusted by varying the compression ratio while the engine is running. In the present invention, varying the compression ratio has only a minor effect on the engine efficiency--this being determined mainly by the expansion ratio. This is illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 6 shows the variation of the expansion ratio required for complete expansion as a function of compression ratio. Complete expansion is defined as that expansion which will reduce the exhaust gas pressure to atmospheric pressure. This expansion ratio is given by Stone (Introduction to Internal Combustion Engines, p. 53), namely: r.sub.e =.sup.γ √(θr.sub.c +r.sub.c.sup.γ)(2) where γ is the ratio of the specific heat at constant pressure to the specific heat at constant volume and θ is the ratio of the temperature after constant volume combustion to the temperature before combustion has taken place. In FIG. 6, r e /12 is plotted for convenience in examining the case where the expansion ratio is 12. The value of γ is assumed to be 1.4, and θ is taken as 5, although it can be considerably larger than this. It can be seen that for a compression ratio of 6, the expansion ratio for complete expansion is slightly greater than 12 for r c =6. Continuing with this example, the efficiency is plotted in FIG. 7 as a function of compression ratio r c for r e =12 and θ=5. This curve (which does not include pumping loss) is labeled `Wittry` and is compared with the efficiency for complete expansion (labeled `Atkinson`) and for the compression ratio equal to the expansion ratio (labeled `Otto`). The plots are derived from Eq. 1 and the general equation given by Stone: η=1-[(γ-1)r.sub.e.sup.γ +r.sub.c (θ-γr.sub.e.sup.γ-1)+r.sub.c.sup.γ ]/(θr.sub.c r.sub.e.sup.γ-1) (2) where r e is the expansion ratio, r c is the compression ratio and the other quantities are as defined previously. From FIG. 7 it can be seen that the Wittry curve provides considerably higher theoretical efficiency than the Otto curve for r c between 6 and 12 due to the more complete expansion. In fact, it is more like the efficiency for the Otto curve at r c =10. Also, it may be seen that the Atkinson curve provides slightly higher efficiency than the Wittry curve. However, examination of FIG. 6 shows that it would be very difficult to achieve the expansion ratios that would be needed for the Atkinson curve to apply when r c is significantly greater than 6. In any case, it can be seen that the vented compression principle and the use of r e >r c makes it possible to have both a high efficiency and also an adjustable compression ratio as is required for the glow ignition system to work well with gasoline as a fuel. SUMMARY AND RAMIFICATIONS It should be apparent that the invention described in this specification accomplishes all of the objectives of providing an engine that is superior to conventional internal combustion engines by providing the advantages of the rotary engine. It also allows the use of glow ignition with ordinary gasoline as well as with alternative fuels. Glow ignition further reduces the cost and weight of the engine. In addition, because the engine operates on the four-stroke cycle, the efficiency is high and the polluting emissions are low. While the above description contains many specifications, these should not be construed as limitations of the scope of the invention but as examples of some preferred embodiments. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the embodiments described but by the appended claims.
A rotary engine in which two rotors having interleaving radial vanes revolve inside a cylindrical cavity and are connected to a planetary output gear system which causes them to alternately speed up and slow down. The radial vanes divide the cylindrical cavity into four chambers in which intake, compression, explosion and exhaustion occur. At least two glow plugs, each of which contains a coil of refractory wire, are located at different angular positions relative to the axis of the cavity. The glow plugs are selected so that one, which cools more rapidly than the other, will cause ignition at an earlier time than another of the glow plugs that cools more slowly. A passageway containing an adjustable, pressure-sensitive, valve vents the compression chamber to the intake chamber to allow the compression ratio to be varied, to allow a greater expansion ratio than compression ratio, and to allow adjustment of the time at which ignition occurs during each cycle.
5
This invention is in the field of intumescent mat materials, especially flexible, resilient mat materials adapted to serve, among other things, as heat-activated firestops in openings through the walls, floors and ceilings in buildings and to support, protect and cushion the fragile ceramic catalyst support found in catalytic converters for motor vehicles. BACKGROUND The catalytic converter in a motor vehicle is a part of its exhaust system and functions to decrease air pollution generated by such vehicles. In general terms, a catalytic converter includes a housing with an exhaust gas inlet at one end and an exhaust gas outlet at the other end. Within the housing, the exhaust gas contacts a catalyst which is carried on a support member capable of withstanding the temperature of the gas, i.e., as high as about 1200° C. In order to withstand the heat, the support member is generally a monolithic ceramic honeycomb structure onto which the catalyst is applied. The ceramic materials employed are brittle, fragile and easily broken. Consequently, the catalyst support must be protected from excessive vibration and shock which could fracture it. In order to cushion the catalyst support, a flexible, resilient intumescent mat material, having a nominal thickness between about 3 mm and about 12 mm and a density of about 0.3 to about 0.8 grams/cm 3 , is generally wrapped around the catalyst support, separating it from the housing wall. The first time the engine is run, the exhaust gas heats the intumescent mat, triggering its expansion to fill any void between the mat and the housing wall. The temperature at which intumescence occurs and the degree and permanence of the expansion attained are important parameters in this application. If the mat fails to expand properly at the exhaust gas temperature the catalyst support will not be effectively held in place. As the exhaust gas initially enters the converter, the metal housing expands to a greater extent in response to the rising temperature than the ceramic catalyst support, creating an increasing gap between the two. The expansion of the intumescent mat must be both fast enough and large enough to tightly hold the catalyst support in place. The expanded mat also serves as a gas seal, preventing exhaust gas blow-by. Diesel engines typically run at lower temperatures than gasoline engines, and the intumescent mat in a diesel engine catalytic converter is typically at a lower temperature than the corresponding intumescent mat in a gasoline engine, i.e., about 285° C., versus about 600° C. for a gasoline engine. The intumescent response of the mat in a diesel engine converter must be tailored to the lower temperature to ensure that the catalyst support is properly held in the catalytic converter and that exhaust gas blow-by is prevented. The use of a firestop material to make a seal in openings through fire-resistant building dividers is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,363,199. The firestop material disclosed in the '199 patent includes ceramic fiber and a fire resistant molding compound and is not intumescent. An intumescent firestop material offers advantages, including a more effective seal against the walls of the opening. In such applications, the degree to which the intumescent mat expands is critical, for it must fill the space it is designed to occupy and must do so at a rapid rate. Intumescent response at a relatively low temperature, rapid rate of expansion, and a high degree of expansion are all desirable. A high degree of expansion ensures that the sheet material will be pressed firmly against the periphery of the opening to be sealed. Intumescent mat materials typically have employed unexpanded micaceous minerals as the intumescent agent. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,916,057 and GB 1 513 808 disclose intumescent mat materials adapted for use in catalytic converters. The mat materials contain up to about 75 wt % to 85 wt % unexpanded vermiculite. The use of unexpanded vermiculite as the intumescent agent and expanded vermiculite as a filler in a mat material intended for catalytic converter applications is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,385,135. In U.S. Pat. No. 4,305,992, it is noted that unexpanded vermiculite undergoes a "negative expansion," i.e., a contraction, as it is heated in the 300° to 350° C. temperature range, expanding only when heated to 375° C. or higher. This initial contraction leaves the catalyst support open to damage unless and until the intumescent sheet expands sufficiently to bridge the space between the catalyst support and the housing wall. As disclosed in the '992 patent, treating the unexpanded vermiculite with an ammonium salt before using it reduces the initial contraction. This chemically treated (ion-exchanged) vermiculite is referred to as "IE vermiculite". The term "unexpanded vermiculite" is used herein to refer to either chemically treated or non-chemically treated vermiculite. Although unexpanded vermiculite is commonly used as the intumescent agent in mat materials for catalytic converters, particulate graphite which has been treated with an oxidizing agent also becomes intumescent. The preparation of intumescent or expandable graphite is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,454,190, where it is employed in making intumescent fiber felts for thermal insulation. The expandable graphite described in the '190 patent undergoes intumescence only when heated in the range 350° C. to 600° C., temperatures which are higher than desired for many applications, such as firestops or catalytic converters. One advantage touted in the '190 patent for expandable graphite over unexpanded vermiculite as an intumescent agent is that the graphite burns off after it has caused the felt to expand. This "advantage" is, in fact, a disadvantage in other applications, e.g., catalytic converters. In these applications, it is important that, once expanded in response to a sufficient temperature increase, the mat cannot shrink substantially if the mat is maintained at the increased temperature or cooled and then heated again repeatedly. With expandable graphite as the sole intumescent agent, it has been found that the mat shrinks upon continued heating at elevated temperatures, and the holding pressure of the mat against the catalyst support diminishes correspondingly. The combination of vermiculite and graphite in a mat-like product has also been disclosed in the prior art. For example, a protective sheath or boot for electrical components is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,018,983. The product comprises a thermoplastic resin incorporating a heat-resistant fiber, which can be graphite fiber, and an intumescing or foaming component which can be vermiculite. A flexible mat useful as a gasket material or support, and containing exfoliated vermiculite together with graphite as a filler, is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,271,228. A mat material suitable for use in gaskets and containing both vermiculite and graphite flake is also disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,443,517. A flexible mat material suitable for spiral-wound gaskets is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,529,662, and the material can include mica or chlorite as well as graphite. A gel which can contain exfoliated vermiculite and graphite as a filler is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,676,929. Aside from U.S. Pat. No. 4,018,983, there is no indication that intumescence is a property of the articles containing both vermiculite and graphite which are described in the aforecited prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Consequently, it is one object of this invention to produce a flexible, resilient, intumescent mat material containing unexpanded vermiculite as an intumescent agent, but an intumescent mat which expands at a lower temperature and with a higher degree of expansion than typically observed using vermiculite. It is another objective to produce a raw vermiculite-containing intumescent mat which also exhibits decreased initial contraction upon being heated. It is a further objective to obtain the aforesaid improvements in response temperature, initial contraction, and degree of expansion without introducing substantial shrinkage upon prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures or thermal cycling. In attaining these objectives this invention provides, in one aspect, a flexible, resilient, intumescent mat material comprising about 15 weight percent (wt % hereinafter) to about 60 wt % fiber; about 3 wt % to about 9 wt % binder; about 20 wt % to about 60 wt % unexpanded vermiculite; and about 5 wt % to about 60 wt % expandable graphite. In another aspect, this invention provides an improvement in a flexible, resilient, intumescent mat material containing unexpanded vermiculite, which comprises replacing up to about one-half the unexpanded vermiculite with an equal weight of expandable graphite. In yet another aspect, this invention provides a slurry from which the aforesaid flexible, resilient, intumescent mat material can be produced. In still further aspects, this invention provides a catalytic converter and a firestop material, both of which include the new flexible, resilient, intumescent mat material of this invention. The invention, together with the manner and the means by which it can be carried out will be clarified by reference to the drawings which accompany this specification and to the detailed description which follows. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 displays in graphic form the relative expansion as a function of temperature for intumescent mat materials of this invention as well as intumescent mat materials of the prior art. FIG. 2 graphically illustrates mat shrinkage at an elevated temperature for mat materials within the scope of the invention. FIG. 3 is a view in perspective illustrating a catalytic converter of this invention. FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic sectional view showing the firestop material of this invention in use. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The flexible, resilient intumescent mat material of this invention can be produced in several different ways, but a conventional paper-making process, either hand laid or machine laid, is preferred. A handsheet mold, a Fourdrinier paper machine, or a rotoformer paper machine can be employed to make the intumescent mat. In any case, a flocculated aqueous slurry containing a number of components, as set forth below, is pressed to remove most of the water, and the mat is then dried. This process is well known to those skilled in the art. Flexible, resilient intumescent mats in a range of thicknesses can be produced. Mats which are about 1 to about 13 mm thick are especially useful in firestop and catalytic converter applications; mats of lesser thickness can be stacked to produce thicker material as a given application requires. Variations in the composition of the mat lead to changes in its density in the range of about 0.3 to about 0.8 grams/cm 3 . A slurry from which the intumescent mat is produced includes water as the carrier medium, together with active ingredients, referred to hereinafter as "solids." In general, the solids will constitute no more than about 10 wt % of the slurry, preferably between about 1 wt % and about 5 wt %. The solids in the slurry, which become components of the final intumescent mat, comprise at least three elements, fiber, binder and intumescent agent. The fiber constitutes between about 15 wt % and about 60 wt % of the solids, the binder (excluding any vehicle associated specifically therewith) between about 3 wt % and 9 wt % of the solids, and the intumescent agent constitutes between about 30 wt % and 85 wt % of the solids. It should be understood that the solids in the slurry become the components of the mat. In most cases other materials, e.g., a flocculating agent, will also be present in much lesser amount. The fiber constitutes about 15 wt % to about 60 wt % of the solids in the slurry and, e.g., between about 15 wt % and about 45 wt %. Preferably, the fiber constitutes between about 25 wt % and about 40 wt % of the solids, e.g., about 30 wt %. The fiber to be employed can be organic or inorganic or mixtures thereof. Suitable organic fibers include rayon, polyester and cellulose. At least half the fiber should be inorganic, especially if the sheet will experience temperatures above about 300° C. Inorganic fibers which can be employed alone or in combination include crysotile or amphibole asbestos, carbon, glass fibers such as chopped E glass, refractory filaments, including zirconia-silica fibers, crystalline alumina, zirconia and similar fibers, and alumina-silica fibers, such as those sold by The Carborundum Company, Niagara Falls, N.Y., under the FIBERFRAX® trademark. The last named fiber is preferred in that it retains its properties to temperatures in excess of 1000° C. A decrease in shrinkage of the intumescent mat upon prolonged exposure to high temperatures is generally obtained by employing low shot, inorganic fiber. "Shot" are the spherical beads found on the ends of ceramic fibers. Replacing the weight of the missing shot with additional intumescent agent further decreases contraction of the mat upon prolonged heating. With regard to the binder, which constitutes between about 3 wt % and about 9 wt % of the solids in the slurry and in the mat, preferably between about 2 wt % and about 7 wt %; e.g., about 6 wt %, it is preferred that it be an elastomeric material to provide flexibility and resilience to the mat. There are a number of aqueous latices which can be employed in the slurry. For example, acrylic latices, such as polyacrylonitrile, as well as vinyl latices, such as poly(vinyl chloride), poly(styrene-co-butadiene), etc. can be employed effectively. The intumescent agent is a mixture of unexpanded vermiculite and expandable graphite which together constitute between about 30 wt % and about 85 wt % of the solids, preferably about 60 wt % of the solids in the slurry and in the mat. The relative amounts of these two agents, unexpanded vermiculite/expandable graphite, can range from about 9/1 to about 1/2 on a wt % basis. Preferably, the unexpanded vermiculite will constitute between about 30 wt % and about 50 wt %, e.g., about 40 wt %, of the solids in the slurry and in the mat. It is preferred that the expandable graphite constitute between about 10 to 15 wt % and about 30 to 40 wt %, e.g., about 20 wt %, of the solids in the slurry and in the mat. The average particle sizes of the intumescent agents will typically be in range of about 0.15 to 0.85 mm. The invention will be clarified by reference to the following Examples. EXAMPLE 1 To a 20 l beaker equipped with a Lightning Labmaster Mixer and containing 9.52 l of water is added the following while stirring at 1750 rpm: 109 g FIBERFRAX ceramic fiber available from The Carborundum Co., Niagara Falls, N.Y. After stirring the slurry for 1 min., 33 g of HYCAR 26083 acrylic latex binder containing 52% solids and obtainable from B. F. Goodrich Chemical Co., Cleveland, Ohio, is added to the beaker, followed by 111 g unexpanded vermiculite, obtainable from W. R. Grace Co., Cambridge, Mass. as Grade No. 4, and 33.2 g unexpanded expandable graphite, an acid-treated natural graphite flake obtainable from Asbury Graphite Mills, Inc., Asbury, N.J. as Grade No. 3335. After stirring the slurry for 2 min., the pH is measured, and 10% aqueous sodium hydroxide is added until the pH of the slurry is 10.0, at which time 27 g of a 10 wt % aqueous solution of aluminum sulfate (alum) is added, causing flocculation of the slurry. The slurry is then poured into a handsheet mold having a screen area of 29.5 cm×29.5 cm available from Williams Apparatus Co., Watertown, N.Y. The resultant sheet is pressed and dried affording a flexible, resilient, intumescent mat of this invention 4.95 mm thick and weighing 280 g. EXAMPLE 2 Example 1 is repeated, except that 72.1 g of unexpanded vermiculite and 72.1 g of expandable graphite are employed. EXAMPLE 3 Example 1 is repeated, except that all of the expandable graphite is replaced by an equal weight of the unexpanded vermiculite. The resultant mat is not of this invention. EXAMPLE 4 Example 1 is repeated, except that all of the unexpanded vermiculite is replaced by an equal weight of the expandable graphite. The resultant mat is not of this invention. EXAMPLE 5 The intumescent mats of Examples -4 are heated from about 50° C. to about 800° C. at a rate of 20° C./min while measuring the relative thickness of the mats. These measurements are carried out in a dilatometer built for the purpose and enclosed in a furnace chamber. In each case, a mat sample of 1 inch diameter is held between two horizontal quartz plates, the upper plate is loaded to 50 psi, and the relative thickness of the mat is measured mechanically as a function of time/temperature. The results appear in FIG. 1 in which "Relative Expansion" is defined as 1+[thickness at temperature-initial thickness]. EXAMPLE 6 Example 1 is repeated except that 81.1 grams of ceramic fiber of the low shot type, i.e., FIBERFRAX W707 ceramic fiber (low shot), is substituted For that employed in Ex. 1. Also, 138 grams of the unexpanded vermiculite, and 33 grams of the graphite flake are employed, making the total solids content of the slurry comparable to Example 1. EXAMPLE 7 The intumescent mats of Examples 1 and 6 are expanded in the manner of Example 5. The mats are then heated at 750° C. for about two hours, the relative expansion of the mats being followed as a function of time. The results appear in FIG. 2, the result of using the low shot fiber and replacing the lost weight with intumescent agent being evident. With reference now to FIG. 3, catalytic converter 10 includes a generally tubular housing 12 formed of two pieces of metal, e.g., high temperature-resistant steel, held together at flange 16. Housing 12 includes an inlet 14 at one end and an outlet (not shown) at its opposite end. The inlet 14 and outlet are suitably formed at their outer ends whereby they may be secured to conduits in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine. Converter 10 contains a fragile structure, such as frangible ceramic monolith 18 which is supported and restrained within housing 12 by intumescent sheet material 20. Monolith 18 includes a plurality of gas-pervious passages which extend axially from its inlet end face at one end to its outlet end face at the opposite end. Monolith 18 is constructed of a suitable refractory or ceramic material in known manner and configuration. Monoliths are typically oval or round in cross-sectional configuration, but other shapes are possible. The intumescent sheet material 20 includes intumescent mat 22 of this invention which has a substantially uniform thickness and which is adhesively bonded to a reinforcing layer 24. In some embodiments it may be desirable to also include ceramic fiber layer 26 which can be placed against the monolith 18. The intumescent mat of this invention can also be employed as a firestop between rooms or other spaces separated by a divider having a passage therethrough. For example, with reference to FIG. 4, pipe 40 passes through divider 41, a concrete floor. Intumescent firestop 42 of this invention is inserted into the passage space between the floor and the pipe. Although not required, the installation is preferably completed by sealing one or both ends of the passage with a refractory putty 43. In this regard, FYRE PUTTY® brand refractory putty, available from The Carborundum Company, Niagara Falls, N.Y. performs very well in this application. It will be evident that this invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically exemplified herein but is to be accorded the full breadth set forth in the following claims.
A flexible, resilient, intumescent mat material comprising fiber, binder, and an intumescent agent which includes a mixture of unexpanded vermiculite and expandable graphite undergoes intumescence at a lower temperature, with an enhanced degree of expansion and with a lesser degree of contraction upon prolonged heating. The intumescent mat can be employed in catalytic converters for motor vehicles and as a firestop material.
8
CROSS REFERENCE [0001] This non-provisional application claims priority of provisional application Ser. No. 61/796,151 entitled Pet Hair Conditioning and Shine Composition filed on Nov. 5, 2012. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention is in the technical field of pet grooming and conditioning compositions. More particularly, the present invention is in the technical field of a naturally derived composition that emulates canine sebum with regard to composition and performance. [0003] Canine sebum is produced in the sebaceous glands present in the skin of dogs. This oily mixture of fatty acids, sterols, triglycerides and other biological materials coats the hair and fur and performs a variety of functions at the skin and hair surfaces such as hair and skin conditioning, providing shine to the hair, providing elasticity to the hair and fur, waterproofing of the hair and skin and protection of hair and skin, as well as reduction of transepidermal water loss. Traditional grooming practices such as shampooing strip this natural sebum from the coats of pets such as dogs and leaves the hair/fur and skin vulnerable to the environment and lacking luster, shine and conditioning. [0004] The present invention is a plant derived substitute for canine sebum that may be applied to the dog directly or added to pet grooming shampoos and conditioners, detanglers and maintenance products such as shine sprays that reproduces the performance and mimics the composition of canine sebum and re-fats the hair and skin. The present invention can be added to traditional products to replenish the natural oils that shampooing removes or it can be applied directly to the hair and fur of a dog (canine). [0005] While some of the prior art may contain some similarities relating to the present invention, none of them teach, suggest or include all of the advantages and unique features of the invention disclosed hereunder. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0006] The present invention is a naturally derived composition that utilizes raw materials to produce a composition that mimics canine sebum in performance and chemical composition and content. [0007] The composition comprises about 42% plant sterol esters, about 25% jojoba oil, about 20% olive oil, about 7% safflower oil, about 5% almond oil, and about 1% tocopherol (plant derived). [0008] Preferably, the composition comprises 42% plant sterol esters, 25% jojoba oil, 20% olive oil, 7% safflower oil, 5% almond oil, and 1% tocopherol (plant derived). [0009] The invention accordingly comprises the features of construction, combination of elements, and arrangement of parts which will be exemplified in the construction hereinafter set forth, and the scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE TABLES [0010] For a fuller understanding of the nature and object of the invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the tables in which: [0011] Table 1 is a composition of the present invention. [0012] Table 2 is an alternate embodiment of the composition of the present invention. [0013] Table 3 is another alternate embodiment of the composition of the present invention. [0014] Table 4 is the composition of the jojoba oil of the present invention. [0015] Table 5 is the composition of the olive oil of the present invention. [0016] Table 6 is the composition of the peanut oil of the present invention. [0017] Table 7 is the composition of the safflower oil of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0018] In mammals such as dogs (canines) the sebaceous glands are microscopic glands that secrete an oily/waxy substance that protects, waterproofs and softens (plasticizes) the skin and hair of mammals (keratin polymer). There is evidence to indicate that sebum offers antimicrobial activity to the skin surface and even certain essential vitamins such as vitamin E. Anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory activity can be demonstrated from sebum. Sebum and sebaceous secretions in conjuction with apocrine secretions also play a thermo-regulatory role in that in hot conditions emulsification of these combined secretions may prevent the loss of transepidermal water and prevent moisture loss. This can modify internal temperature. Sebum performs a very important evolutionary function on the hair and skin of dogs and is responsible for a healthy and attractive coat and skin. [0019] The oily/waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands of dogs is called sebum. Sebum is derived from the Latin, meaning fat or tallow. The sebaceous glands are composed of very specialized cells that that produce sebum and as the cells fill with sebum, ultimately burst and release the sebum onto the skin and hair. [0020] Sebum is composed of triglyceride oils, squalene, waxy diesters, fatty acids and other biological products of the fat producing cells in the sebaceous glands. The composition of canine sebum is unique and has a fatty acid/triglyceride/wax diester and other fat producing cell metabolite composition different from any other species of mammal. This unique composition of sebum is provides for its superior performance and protection of the hair and skin. [0021] Modern shampoos remove naturally produced sebum from the hair and skin of dogs. This loss of sebum removes a critical natural component from the biological systems that protect the hair and skin, control internal temperature and protect the animal from the elements. It also makes the hair and skin drier and less pliable, reduces luster and conditioned feel. It is thereby important to reapply a sebum substitute that is as close to the composition of natural canine sebum as possible. [0022] The present invention is a canine sebum substitute that contains many of the naturally occurring sterols, triglycerides, waxes, fats and oils present in canine sebum, thereby replacing the sebum necessary for proper biological function and beautification of hair and skin. The invention also contains plant derived ingredients. No substitute for canine sebum exists and no sebum substitute exists that is completely plant derived that can be used as is on the hair of canines or used as an additive for pet shampoos and conditioning and maintenance products. [0023] Tables 1 through 7 identify the components of the present invention by percentages of weight. [0024] It should also be noted the tocopherol acetate can be substituted for tocopherol. [0000] TABLE 1 Canine Sebum Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Plant Sterol Esters 42% 42% Jojoba Oil 25% 25% Olive Oil 20% 20% Peanut Oil  7%  7% Almond Oil  5%  5% Tocopherol (plant derived)  1%  1% [0000] TABLE 2 Canine Sebum Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Plant Sterol Esters 42% 42% Jojoba Oil 25% 25% Olive Oil 20% 20% Safflower Oil  7%  7% Almond Oil  5%  5% Tocopherol (plant derived)  1%  1% [0000] TABLE 3 Canine Sebum Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Sterol Esters 42% 42% Cholesterol  9%  9% Wax Diesters 32% 32% Triglycerides  7%  7% [0000] TABLE 4 Jojoba Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Palmitic Acid 3% 3% Palmitoleic Acid 1% 1% Stearic Acid 1% 1% Oleic Acid 5-15%     5-15%     Linoleic Acid 5% 5% Linolenic Acid 1% 1% Arachidic Acid 0.5%   0.5%   Eicosenoic Acid 65-80%     65-80%     Behenic Acid 0.5%   0.5%   Erucic Acid 10-20%     10-20%     Lignoceric Acid 5% 5% [0000] TABLE 5 Olive Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Palmitic Acid 13% 13% Stearic Acid  3%  3% Oleic Acid 71% 71% Linoleic Acid 10% 10% Alpha Linolenic Acid  1%  1% [0000] TABLE 6 Peanut Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Palmitic Acid 11% 11% Stearic Acid  2%  2% Oleic Acid 48% 48% Linoleic Acid 32% 32% Unidentified  7%  7% [0000] TABLE 7 Safflower Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Myristic  0.5%  0.5% Oleic 13-21% 13-21% Palmitic Acid  3-6%  3-6% Linoleic 73-79% 73-79% Linolenic  0.2%  0.2% Stearic  1-4%  1-4% [0025] In broad embodiment, the present invention is a plant derived substitute for canine sebum that offers the protection, performance and functional equivalence of naturally produced canine sebum on the hair and skin of dogs. [0026] The advantages of the present invention include, without limitation, ease of formulation, low cost, plasticization of hair and skin keratin, increased conditioning and improvement of hair feel, anti-microbial activity, thermo-regulatory contribution, shine improvement, aid in the reduction and control of topical parasites. [0027] While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of the unique composition of canine sebum and the value of having a plant derived canine sebum substitute which is the embodiment, method and example herein provided. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention. [0028] In operation, the canine sebum substitute may be used on the hair and skin of dogs or be added to pet grooming products as needed to provide the benefits provided by canine sebum. These pet grooming products include shampoos, conditioners, shine sprays, and hair detanglers. The composition may be prepared by simple mixing at room temperature. All oils are soluble together. [0029] It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description are efficiently attained and since certain changes may be made in the above construction without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawing shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. [0030] It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of 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. [0031] Now that the invention has been described, [0000] TABLE 1 Canine Sebum Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Plant Sterol Esters 42% 42% Jojoba Oil 25% 25% Olive Oil 20% 20% Peanut Oil  7%  7% Almond Oil  5%  5% Tocopherol (plant derived)  1%  1% [0000] TABLE 2 Canine Sebum Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Plant Sterol Esters 42% 42% Jojoba Oil 25% 25% Olive Oil 20% 20% Safflower Oil  7%  7% Almond Oil  5%  5% Tocopherol (plant derived)  1%  1% [0000] TABLE 3 Canine Sebum Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Sterol Esters 42% 42% Cholesterol  9%  9% Wax Diesters 32% 32% Triglycerides  7%  7% [0000] TABLE 4 Jojoba Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Palmitic Acid 3% 3% Palmitoleic Acid 1% 1% Stearic Acid 1% 1% Oleic Acid 5-15%     5-15%     Linoleic Acid 5% 5% Linolenic Acid 1% 1% Arachidic Acid 0.5%   0.5%   Eicosenoic Acid 65-80%     65-80%     Behenic Acid 0.5%   0.5%   Erucic Acid 10-20%     10-20%     Lignoceric Acid 5% 5% [0000] TABLE 5 Olive Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Palmitic Acid 13% 13% Stearic Acid  3%  3% Oleic Acid 71% 71% Linoleic Acid 10% 10% Alpha Linolenic Acid  1%  1% [0000] TABLE 6 Peanut Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Palmitic Acid 11% 11% Stearic Acid  2%  2% Oleic Acid 48% 48% Linoleic Acid 32% 32% Unidentified  7%  7% [0000] TABLE 7 Safflower Oil Composition COMPONENTS About % Preferred % Myristic  0.5%  0.5% Oleic 13-21% 13-21% Palmitic Acid  3-6%  3-6% Linoleic 73-79% 73-79% Linolenic  0.2%  0.2% Stearic  1-4%  1-4%
A canine sebum substitute utilizes plant derived raw components that contain essential fatty acids, triglycerides and sterols present in canine sebum applied directly to the coat or added to pet products such as shampoos, conditioners, shine sprays, and detanglers to re-fat the hair and skin of dogs and improve shine and condition.
0
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] A. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a building support system, and more particularly to a temporary support system for supporting manufactured homes during foundation process. [0003] B. Description of the Prior Art [0004] Manufactured homes are transported to a customer's site for a permanent or semi-permanent setup. One way in practice is through cast-in-place and on-the-ground building foundations wherein the complete building is suspended while vertical supports such as construction piers and stanchions at selected locations in the foundation plan are engaged at their top ends to an undercarriage of the building and their bottom ends are buried in fabric containers of cementitious slurry until the piers and stanchions become an integral foundation in the solid block of concrete conformed to the ground for the leveled dwelling house. [0005] For the suspension of the building, various designs of support are known. U.S. Pat. No. 4,348,843 discloses height-adjustable I-Beam stanchions for supporting the I-Beam bearing the mobile home undercarriage. The stanchion has two angle iron support arms extending from the bottom of the stanchion at right angle to each other reaching the undercarriage to assist in supporting the I-Beam and undercarriage. [0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,727,767 offers a mobile home support stand for permanently supporting a mobile home to counteract high winds and/or earth vibrations. The support stand has a support stud functioning as a screw-jack disposed between a ground steel post and a home I beam, and a hold down assembly clamps the post and beam together. [0007] Using these and other known structures the required time to finish the home supporting was slow because ten or more of such vertical supports must be erected one by one for each undercarriage I beam and the total number multiplies depending upon the type or size of the manufactured home to build. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0008] When a, manufactured housing arrives at the site, the flooring assembly is typically supported at its underside by horizontal parallel beams or joists and also vertically supported by foundations that stand firmly on the ground. [0009] The present invention provides a temporary tripod support system during preparation of the home foundation of concrete piers and the like. At locations along the sidewalls and mate line of home the tripod supports may be installed in a number significantly less than conventional design supports. [0010] The tripod support system comprises multiple tripods each having a triangular transverse frame to support an extended undercarriage area. [0011] Due to its triangle top, each tripod makes two separate supporting abutments with its overlying straight perimeter or mating line joist at the same time thereby reducing the total number of supporting installations and labors in half which no other precedent supports could offer. [0012] During the operation of the inventive tripod supports a ground surface cast-in-place foundation assembly may be made with a plurality of buttress assemblies set in the foundation to vertically engage the perimeter beam of the level modular home. [0013] Such buttress assembly may include a means for seating the perimeter beam, a tubular stanchion having an upper and lower end, an anchor base plate fixedly connected to the lower end of the stanchion and a couple of transverse tabs attached to the intermediate portions of the stanchion; and a flowable and settable foundation material which envelopes at least a portion of the buttress assembly, whereby the foundation material conforms to the shape of a porous fabric container into which it is poured, and it sets with the enveloped portion of the buttress assembly embedded therein. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0014] FIG. 1 is a partial side view of a tripod support of the present invention in operation showing one of three piers of the tripod supporting a sidewall or mate line of a home. [0015] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the tripod showing its saddle jacks in position at each junction of the three cross.beams. [0016] FIG. 3 is a partial cross sectional view of the saddle jack according to the present invention. [0017] FIG. 4 shows in detail the saddle jack holding two adjacent cross beams at their junction. [0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the tripod support system supporting sidewalls of the manufactured home on site. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT [0019] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , a tripod support 10 is shown assembled to buttress the bottom of a sidewall of home 11 . The tripod support 10 has three identical piers of which piers 12 and 13 are numbered in FIG. 2 . The pier 12 comprises four metal legs 15 through 18 welded to a rectangular bottom frame 19 , which is in turn fastened by nails or screws to a bearing pad 20 laid on the ground. The pad 20 may be made of wood. The legs 15 - 18 are converged at their upper ends where they are welded together. At the top of the legs a stopper nut 21 is rotatably installed. The nut 21 is positioned so that its inner threads extend vertically in the center of the pier 12 . [0020] Triangular framework 22 of three cross beams 22 a , 22 b and 22 c are suspended to make contact with the sidewall 11 . This suspension is enforced by three saddle members 23 adjustably threaded to the nut 21 of the pier 12 through a rod 24 which has corresponding threads formed on its outer faces and is welded to the bottom of the saddle member 23 as shown in detail in FIG. 3 . Thus, the saddle member 23 , threaded rod 24 and nut 21 together constitute a saddle jack assembly 25 for buttressing the cross beams 22 a - 22 c at their junctions. [0021] Referring further to FIG. 4 , the saddle member 23 with rod 24 of the saddle jack assembly 25 is adapted to be transported as a loose component to the construction site where it is assembled with the cross beams as well as the corresponding pier. [0022] The cross beams 22 a - 22 c have a common structure so that they can be interchangeably laid to extend between any two saddle jack assemblies 25 forming the triangular framework 22 . In a right handed configuration, the four walls cooperate, two of them holding a right supporting beam and two of them holding a left supporting beam. The right supporting beam extends beyond the end of the left supporting beam. Because they are identical, the beams can be interchanged, and the saddle jacks can also be interchanged. The top of view of the saddle jack shows that the configuration can be reversed so that the left beam protrudes beyond the end of the right beam, so that the top view is a mirror image. Taking a mirror image configuration translates a right handed configuration into a left handed configuration. [0023] The saddle member 23 has a horizontal plate 26 comprising an elongated main plate section 27 and a crossing plate section 28 extending from the main plate section so that the longitudinal axis of the section 27 and an extension of the longitudinal axis of the section 28 meet at an angle A of about 60°. In addition, the crossing plate section 28 has two end walls of which a shorter wall 29 stands upright from a shorter lateral end of the plate section 28 facing clockwise direction in FIGS. 2 and 4 and a longer wall 30 stands upright from a longer lateral end at the other side. The opposing walls 29 and 30 may have a third bridging wall between them as shown in FIG. 2 to limit the cross beam 22 a in its longitudinal movements although an open structure of FIG. 4 works well to hold the beam. [0024] On the other hand, the main plate section 27 has a first end wall 31 extending along the entire lateral edge of the plate section 27 facing approximately the same direction of the shorter end wall 29 of the plate section 28 . The first end wall 31 also joins the shorter end wall 29 at an inner merging point 32 between the plate sections 28 and 28 . [0025] However, at the other side of the first end wall 31 the main plate section 27 has a second end wall 33 extending from an open end 34 of the main section 27 and terminating short of a virtual extension line of the shorter end wall 29 to allow for laying the cross beam 22 a past the second end wall 33 . The second end wall 33 faces inwardly of the triangular framework 22 in FIG. 2 . The threaded rod 24 may be centered along a line connecting the inner merging point 32 and an outer merging point 35 . [0026] The cross beams 22 a and 22 b are shown as seated in the saddle jack assembly 25 making an angled joint of the beams each having rectangular cross sections. The beam 22 a has a first blunt end 36 adapted to be seated on the saddle member 23 defined by the plate section 28 and the opposing Walls 29 and 30 . The other second end of the beam 22 a is not shown in FIG. 4 but is similar to the next cross beam 22 b wherein its abutment end 37 is cut at the angle A to make an angled assemblage with the opposing side of the blunt end 36 of the cross beam 22 a when the cross beam 22 b is seated on the saddle member 23 defined by the plate section 27 and the opposing walls 31 and 33 . [0027] The saddle jack has an interior connection and an exterior connection. The interior connection has a portion of the connection inside of the triangle formed by the horizontal supporting beams, and the exterior connection is located outside of the triangle formed by the horizontal supporting beams. The first connection is the interior connection shown in FIG. 4 as a bolted connection 44 , 45 . The exterior connection is also shown as a bolted connection 40 , 41 . Assembling the blunt end 36 of the cross beam 22 a with the saddle jack assembly 25 may be done by using a thru bolt 40 and a nut 41 threaded through an opening 42 in the end wall 29 and an opening 43 in the end wall 30 . Likewise, the mating abutment end 37 of the cross beam 22 b may be assembled with the saddle jack assembly 25 using a thru bolt 44 and a nut 45 threaded through an opening 46 in the end wall 31 and an opening 47 in the end wall 33 . Optionally, washers 48 may be used with these fastening members. [0028] FIG. 5 shows the tripod support system of the present invention applied to the manufactured home 11 on site. [0029] The home 11 has been suspended by the tripod support system of the present invention in which two of several tripod supports for the visible sidewall are demonstrating the actual field installations. [0030] During the operation of the tripod supports a ground surface cast-in-place foundation assembly 100 is made with a plurality of buttress assemblies 101 set in the foundation to vertically engage the perimeter beam of the level modular home 11 . [0031] When the home foundation 100 is solidified, the tripod supports 10 may be easily retrieved by first turning a round of the stopper nuts 21 to lower the saddle jack assemblies 25 out of engagements with the home 11 . The released tripod supports 10 can be immediately disassembled at their joints by unscrewing the nuts 41 and 45 of the saddle jack assemblies 25 into small and easy parts to transport to the next construction site. The nuts can be tightened against the pier, as seen in figure one, allowing the vertical and rotational retention of the saddle jack. The nuts can also be called locking nuts. [0032] Therefore, while the presently preferred form of the tripod support system has been shown and described, and several modifications thereof discussed, persons skilled in this art will readily appreciate that various additional changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention, as defined and differentiated by the following claims. Call Out List of Elements [0033] 10 Tripod Support [0034] 11 Home [0035] 12 , 13 Pier [0036] 15 - 18 Leg [0037] 19 Bottom Frame [0038] 20 Bearing Pad [0039] 21 Stopper Nut [0040] 22 Triangular Framework [0041] 22 a - 22 c Cross Beam [0042] 23 Saddle Member [0043] 24 Threaded Rod [0044] 25 Saddle Jack Assembly [0045] 26 Horizontal Plate [0046] 27 Main Plate Section [0047] 28 Crossing Plate Section [0048] 29 Shorter End Wall [0049] 30 Longer End Wall [0050] 31 First End Wall [0051] 32 Inner Merging Point [0052] 33 Second End Wall [0053] 34 Open End [0054] 35 Outer Merging Point [0055] 36 Blunt End [0056] 37 Abutment End [0057] 40 , 44 Thru Bolt [0058] 41 , 45 Nut [0059] 42 , 43 , 46 , 47 Opening [0060] 48 Washer [0061] 100 Cast-in-Place Foundation [0062] 101 Buttress Assembly
A temporary tripod support system for use during preparation of the home foundation of concrete piers and the like. At locations along the sidewalls and mate line of home the tripod supports may be installed in a number significantly less than conventional design supports. The tripod support system comprises multiple tripods each having a triangular transverse frame to support an extended undercarriage area. Due to its triangle top, each tripod makes two separate supporting abutments with its overlying straight perimeter or mating line joist at the same time thereby reducing the total number of supporting installations and labors in half.
4
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a lace provided with a tubular lace body. 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as to a lace which needs to be pass through a hole for fixation, a lace, where its core is made of a linear material having elasticity such as a rubber, the outer periphery of the core is covered with fiber, and the fiber portion has knobby portions for hooking into holes of a lace-up shoes, thereby being fixed without lacing, is well-known. The knobby portions are braided so as to hook the hole after passing through the hole of the lace-up shoes, and can freely vary its diameter depending on the tension put on the lace. Therefore, the lace has a configuration, where a plurality of knobby portions, of which ends are fixed by the rubber of the core, and the core which is inelastic (flexible) and not fixed, are braided and placed. When a tension is put on the core of rubber, the rubber portion extends and the distance between the ends extends, so that the core of the knobby portion becomes flat, and the diameter becomes smaller. Moreover, when the tension is not put on the lace, the rubber portion becomes normal length, and the distance between the ends also becomes normal, so that the shape of the knobby portion is restored to be original, and the diameter becomes greater. Thus, it is possible to control variation of the diameter of the knobby portion by the tension put on the lace, so that the shoe lace which does not loosen without lacing can be made as described above. For example, the Japanese Patent No. 3493002 discloses such lace provided with knobby portions. 3. Related Art Documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 3493002 However, in the above technology, the both ends of the inelastic knobby portion are fixed to the rubber core, so that the rubber portion cannot extends under high tension. The reason is that the knobby portion is braided by the inelastic fiber and the rubber portion is fixed by the inelastic. Moreover, the rubber portion corresponding to the core of the knobby portion repeats extension and shrinks in response to the high tension. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, there are a portion that is subjected to heavy stretching force and a portion that is subjected to no stretching force, and when large strain is accumulated at the boundary between the portions subjected to different stretching forces and the strain reaches the limit, the lace ruptures. In order to solve the above problem, we provide a lace provided with tubular lace body of elastic material, comprising knobby portions repeatedly placed at intervals, of which diameter vary depending on tension on the knobby portion in an axial direction. According to the present invention mainly having the above configuration, the lace having an economical advantage, which is not easily torn and does not get loose without lacing, can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a portion of a lace of a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing that the lace of the first embodiment is under tension in an axial direction. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing that the lace of the first embodiment is used for a shoe lace. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing that the lace of the first embodiment is used for a lace for trousers. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of fixing process by using the lace of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an entire lace of a second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of a lace of a third embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of a lace of a fourth embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of a lace of a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a braided portion of a lace body of a sixth embodiment. FIG. 11 is a side view of both sides of the lace of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view when the lace of the present invention is configured to be a rubber tube. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of the present invention will be described hereinafter. Relationship between Claims and Embodiments is as follows. The first embodiment will mainly describe Claim 1 . The second embodiment will mainly describe Claim 2 . The third embodiment will mainly describe Claim 3 . The fourth embodiment will mainly describe Claim 4 . The fifth embodiment will mainly describe Claim 5 . The sixth embodiment will mainly describe Claim 6 . The present invention is not to be limited to the above embodiments and able to be embodied in various forms without departing from the scope thereof. First Embodiment Outline of First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a portion of a lace of a first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1 , the lace of the first embodiment is a lace provided with tubular lace body of elastic material, comprising a knobby portion repeatedly placed at intervals, of which diameter varies depending on tension on the knobby portion in an axial direction. This configuration enables to provide a lace which is not easily torn under high tension which is repeatedly put on the lace body. Note that the design of the lace of FIG. 1 continues only in horizontal direction in the elevation view, and FIG. 11 is a side view of both sides of the lace of the present invention. Configuration of First Embodiment As shown in FIG. 1 , a ‘lace’ 0100 of a first embodiment is a lace provided with tubular lace body comprising knobby portions repeatedly placed at intervals. Specifically, the knobby portions are configured by repeated placed ‘cores’ 0101 , and ‘ends’ 0102 . FIG. 2 is a diagram showing that the lace of the first embodiment is under tension in an axial direction. As shown in FIG. 2 , when putting the tension in the axial direction, the diameter of the knobby portion varies, such that the knobby portion shrinks. When removing the tension in the axial direction, the diameter of the knobby portion varies, such that the knobby portion expands. The ‘knobby portion’ of the first embodiment is ‘repeatedly placed at intervals’. Therefore a plurality of knobby portions is placed on the lace body. The plurality of knobby portions may be placed only with intervals between the cores, and the interval is not necessary to be regular. Therefore, the knobby portion may be placed at regular intervals or at random, and the interval is design variation. As show in FIGS. 3 and 4 , it is possible to provide laces for various cases such as a case of lacing up shoes or a case of fastening trousers. Moreover, as to the knobby portion, ‘diameter varies depending on tension on the knobby portion in an axial direction’. Specifically, as the tension in the axial direction increases, the diameter is reduced, and as the tension in the axial direction decreases, the diameter increases. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of fixing process by using the lace of the first embodiment. The process includes the following steps. At the outset, in a step S 0501 , tension on the lace is put in an axial direction, such that the diameter of the knobby portion is reduced. Subsequently, in a step S 0502 , the lace under tension is made to pass through a hole. Subsequently, in a step S 0503 , it is determined whether lace length is suitable for keeping fixed state. If the length is not suitable, the step S 0502 is repeated. If it is determined that the length is suitable, processing shifts to a step S 0504 . Subsequently, in a step S 0504 , the tension put on the lace is reduced, such that the diameter of the knobby portion increases, thereby expanding the knobby portion. Thus, it is possible to keep the state of being fixed only by hooking the knobby portion on the hole without lacing. Note that the ‘knobby portion’ of the present invention is a portion having diameter greater than that of a non-knobby portion with no tension in the axial direction. Therefore, the knobby portion is a part of the lace body, and configured by the after-mentioned elastic material similar to the lace body. The terms ‘configured by the elastic material’ means that the lace is configured by a material having a property of elasticity. Examples of the elastic material include natural rubber and synthetic rubber. The lace may be configured to be rubber tube as shown in FIG. 12 by singularly using such material, or may be configured by combination of such materials and inelastic materials such as polyester, nylon, acryl or polyurethane. Therefore, according to this configuration where the entire lace body made of elastic material, the entire lace body can extend and shrink under tension in the axial direction, so that distortion is not easily caused on the respective portions of the lace, thereby providing the lace which is not easily torn under high tension which is repeatedly put on the lace body. Effects of First Embodiment According to the lace of the first embodiment having the above configuration, the lace can preserve the knobby portion under high tension, and can be repeatedly used, thereby solving the problem of the conventional technology. Second Embodiment Outline of Second Embodiment FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an entire lace of a second embodiment. As show in FIG. 6 , the lace of the second embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment, and the elastic material is braided by rubber and less-elastic normal material. This configuration enables extension and shrink in the axial direction without heavy load for the lace. Functional Configuration of Second Embodiment The configuration of the lace of the second embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment as described with reference to FIG. 1 . Hereinafter, description of difference in configuration of the elastic material is mainly provided. The ‘rubber-like material’ is a material having elasticity and a thread-like shape, and can well expand under tension in the axial direction. Note that the term ‘rubber-like material’ does not exclude a rubber material, and therefore, includes any type of rubber such as natural rubber and synthetic rubber. The configuration braided by the rubber-like material enables sufficient extension with small tension in the axial direction. The ‘less-elastic normal material’ is fiber material with less elasticity in comparison with the rubber-like material. Therefore, the term ‘less-elastic’ is a technical term and means ‘poor in elasticity’ and does not mean ‘not elastic’. Examples of the less-elastic normal material include the polyester, nylon, acryl, and polyurethane. The configuration braided by such normal fiber materials with high line density enables to provide the lace with durability to tear. Moreover, using the normal material, it is possible to form various shape of knobby portions, which are hard to be formed in using only the rubber-like material. The rubber-like material and the normal material configure the elastic material of the first embodiment by braiding them with each other. The term ‘braiding’ means general method for braiding the rubber-like material and the normal material in straight lines crossing each other diagonally. This configuration makes it possible to utilize both advantages of the rubber-like material and the normal material. Specifically, the rubber-like material is provided with durability to shrink and tear under strong tension in the axial direction by being braided with the normal material with high durability, and the normal material is provided with elasticity in the axial direction without heavy load by being braided with the rubber-like material. Moreover, in the braiding, timing of crossing the materials and amounts of the materials to be used may be appropriately determined. Therefore, the ratio of the rubber-like material and the normal material may be equal, or may be 1:5 or 1:7 where the normal material is more used than the rubber-like material. Here, in order to secure the elasticity sufficient for performance of the lace of the first embodiment, for example, the suitable ratio between the rubber-like material and the normal material is approximately 1:7. Hereinafter, a description of forming the knobby portion placed on the lace body of the first embodiment made by braiding the elastic material is provided. As described above, the knobby portion is necessary to be formed, such that the diameter thereof varies depending on tension on the knobby portion in an axial direction, and this function is necessary to be secured even in the braided configuration. Specifically, it is possible to make partial pitch variation in the braiding, for example, a portion of the lace may be loosely braided in comparison with other portions. This makes it possible to make deflection on the knobby portion, such that the knobby portion is more extendable, and to configure the lace body by the rubber-like material and normal material without patch of separately braided materials at the core and the end of the knobby portion. Effects of Second Embodiment According to the lace using the normal material of the second embodiment, in addition to the first embodiment, it is possible to provide laces of various designs, and to provide the lace not only with durability to tear. Moreover, the normal material reduces friction drag with the hole, and provides the lace with smoothness in moving. Third Embodiment Outline of Third Embodiment FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of a lace of a third embodiment. As show in FIG. 7 , the lace of the third embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment, and further comprises a ‘centrally-placed lace’ 0705 that is centrally placed in a ‘tube’ 0703 configured by tubular structure of the lace body, consists of less-elastic material, configures a core of the knobby portion, and is balled up at a ‘portion corresponding to knobby portion’ 0704 so as to follow a variation of distance between ends of the knobby portion in response to the variation of the diameter of the knobby portion. According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce difficulty in restoring the original state of the knobby portion due to repeated use of the lace. Configuration of Third Embodiment The configuration of the lace of the third embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment as described with reference to FIG. 1 . Hereinafter, description of difference in configuration of the centrally-placed lace is mainly provided. The ‘centrally-placed lace’ has a function of following a variation of distance between ends of the knobby portion in response to the variation of the diameter of the knobby portion, and is balled up at the portion corresponding to the knobby portion, thereby configuring the core of the knobby portion. The ‘variation of distance between ends of the knobby portion in response to the variation of the diameter of the knobby portion’ means that the variation of the diameter of the knobby portion is caused by the tension in the axial direction put the lace body, and the distance between ends of the knobby portion varies in response to the variation of the diameter. The ‘function of following’ the variation is, for example, when the distance between ends of the knobby portion is reduced, the after-mentioned balled-up portion of the centrally-placed lace further shrinks, and when the distance between ends of the knobby portion increases, the balled-up portion of the centrally-placed lace extends. Here, the balled-up portion of the centrally-placed lace is made at the portion corresponding to the knobby portion. According to this configuration, the elastic material configuring the lace body forms the knobby portion along the portion corresponding to the knobby portion of the centrally-placed lace, so that the portion corresponding to the knobby portion works as the core for forming the knobby portion. Moreover, by internally placing the centrally-placed lace as the core, the knobby portion can preserve the firmness to endure the repeated use. Note that it is necessary to prevent position gap at the portion corresponding to the knobby portion in order to function the centrally-placed lace as the core of the knobby portion. In order to secure the function as the core of the knobby portion, it is required that the centrally-placed lace connects the respective portions corresponding to the knobby portion and has the thread-like form where it is fixed at the ends of the lace. Note that since the centrally-placed lace is not necessary to extend or shrink the lace, the centrally-placed lace may be configured by inelastic material, not by elastic material. Therefore, even when putting the tension in the axial direction on the lace body and extending it, the centrally-placed lace does not extend like the rubber-like material. The centrally-placed lace has slightly longer than the lace body, and the ‘balled-up portion’ has, for example, a spirally-twisted form. According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce difficulty in restoring the original state of the knobby portion when the balled-up portion gets entangled in repeated use of the lace. Effects of Third Embodiment According to the lace having the configuration of the third embodiment, in addition to the first embodiment, it is possible to reduce difficulty in restoring the original state of the knobby portion of the lace body due to repeated use of the lace. Fourth Embodiment Outline of Fourth Embodiment FIG. 8 is a view showing an outline of a lace of a fourth embodiment. As show in FIG. 8 , the lace of the fourth embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment, and the diameter W1 of the ‘core of the knobby portion’ 0801 of the lace body is 1.5 times or more of the diameter W2 of the ‘end of the knobby portion’ 0802 of the lace body without tension in the axial direction. According to this feature in the shape of the knobby portion, the lace easily hooks on the hole, and can smoothly move upon adjusting its length. Configuration of Fourth Embodiment The configuration of the lace of the fourth embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment as described with reference to FIG. 1 . Hereinafter, description of difference in diameter of the knobby portion is mainly provided. The state ‘without tension in the axial direction’ is a state that tension on the lace does not exist. Under this state, for example as shown in FIG. 3 , the core of the knobby portion has the diameter greater than the ends of the knobby portion, and functions as a fixture by being hooked on the hole. Therefore, for the function of the knobby portion, the diameter of the core of the knobby portion is required to be greater than that of the hole. Meanwhile, when the diameter of the core of the knobby portion becomes excessively greater, the balance in the shape of the entire lace is lost, thereby spoiling the appearance of the lace. Moreover, it is necessary to put excessive tension in the axial direction on the lace to reduce the diameter of the core of the knobby portion and level the diameter of the entire lace. It is assumed that the lace is daily used as the fixture by men and women of all ages, it is preferable that the diameter of the core of the knobby portion varies with the minimum tension in the axial direction, such that elders and children who are less powerful can use the lace. Therefore, it is preferable that the knobby portion easily hooks on the hole, and the diameter of the entire lace is easily leveled. In this regard, by using the lace of the present invention, where the diameter of the core of the knobby portion on the lace body was 7 mm, and the diameters of the ends were 4 mm, it was possible to reduce the diameter of the core of the knobby portion and to level the lace body without putting heavy tension in the axial direction. Effects of Fourth Embodiment According to the lace having the configuration of the fourth embodiment, in addition to the first embodiment, the lace easily hooks on the hole, and can smoothly move upon adjusting its length. Fifth Embodiment Outline of Fifth Embodiment FIG. 9 is a view showing an outline of a lace of a fifth embodiment. As show in FIG. 9 , the lace of the fifth embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment, and the diameter W3 of the ‘core of the knobby portion’ 0901 of the lace body is 1.3 times or less of the diameter W4 of the ‘end of the knobby portion’ 0902 of the lace body under tension in the axial direction. According to this feature in the shape of the knobby portion, the lace can smoothly passes through the hole. Configuration of Fifth Embodiment The configuration of the lace of the fifth embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment as described with reference to FIG. 1 . Hereinafter, description of difference in diameter of the knobby portion under tension is mainly provided. The state ‘under tension in the axial direction’ is a state that tension is put on the lace. In this state, for example as shown in FIG. 2 , the diameter of the core of the knobby portion becomes smaller than that of the state without tension in the axial direction, and the lace can pass thorough the hole without hooking. Therefore, for the function of the knobby portion, the diameter of the core of the knobby portion is required to be sufficiently small for passing through the hole under tension in the axial direction. It is ultimately preferable that the ‘diameter sufficient small for passing through the hole under tension in the axial direction’ is the same as that of the ends of the knobby portion. However, in the lace of the present invention, the elastic material is used for the lace body, and the lace has the tubular shape. Therefore, there is a room inside the tube, and if the diameter of the core of the knobby portion is slightly greater than that of the ends, the knobby portion extends to the room inside the tube upon passing through the hole, hereby passing the hole having the same diameter as that of the ends. In this regard, by using the lace of the present invention, where the diameter of the core of the knobby portion on the lace body was 7 mm, and the diameters of the ends were 4 mm, it was possible to make the lace pass through the hole having 4 mm diameter by putting the tension in the axial direction on the lace even in the state that the diameter of the core of the knobby portion was approximately 5 mm. Effects of Fifth Embodiment According to the lace having the configuration of the fifth embodiment, in addition to the first embodiment, the lace can smoothly passes through the hole. Sixth Embodiment Outline of Sixth Embodiment FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a braided portion of a lace body of a sixth embodiment. As show in FIG. 9 , the lace of the sixth embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment, and the lace body is braided at 45 degrees angle to the axial direction. According to this feature, the lace can smoothly passes through the hole. Configuration of Sixth Embodiment The configuration of the lace of the sixth embodiment is basically similar to that of the first embodiment as described with reference to FIG. 1 . Hereinafter, description of difference in braiding angle of the lace body is mainly provided. As shown in FIG. 10 , the terms ‘the lace body is braided at 45 degrees angle to the axial direction’ mean a state where the rubber-like material and the normal material are braided at approximately 45 degrees angle. As described above, it is preferable that the lace body can pass through the hole without hooking, and degree of the hooking can vary depending not only on the diameter of the knobby portion but also on surface shape of the knobby portion. Specifically, as the surface shape of the knobby portion gets smooth, the lace body can easily pass through the hole. Here, as the braiding angle gets wide, the braiding gets loose, thereby the lace easily hooks on the hole. Meanwhile, as the angle gets narrow, the diameter of the lace body is reduced, the diameter of the knobby portion relatively becomes greater, and it becomes difficult to make the diameter of the knobby portion small and to make the lace pass through the hole unless heavy tension in the axial direction is put on the lace. In this regard, by using the lace of the present invention, where the lace body is braided by the rubber-like material and the normal material at approximately 45 degrees angle to the axial direction, it is possible to make the lace smoothly pass through the hole without causing the above problem. Effects of Sixth Embodiment According to the lace having the configuration of the fifth embodiment, in addition to the first embodiment, the lace can smoothly passes through the hole. DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS 0100 Lace 0101 Core of knobby portion 0102 End of knobby portion 0103 End 0200 Lace 0201 Core of knobby portion 0202 End of knobby portion 0701 Core of knobby portion 0702 End of knobby portion 0703 Tubular portion 0704 Portion corresponding to knobby portion 0705 Centrally-placed lace 1201 Core of knobby portion 1202 End of knobby portion
In the conventional lace with knobby portions having elastic rubber core, there is difference in degree of stretch between both ends and core of the knobby portion. Therefore, there are a portion that is subjected to heavy stretching force and a portion that is subjected to no stretching force, and when large strain is accumulated at the boundary between the portions subjected to different stretching forces and the strain reaches the limit, the lace ruptures. In order to solve the above problem, we provide a lace provided with tubular lace body of elastic material, comprising knobby portions repeatedly placed at intervals, of which diameter vary depending on tension on the knobby portion in an axial direction.
3
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/543,575, filed Jul. 6, 2012, and issued Dec. 31, 2013 as U.S. Pat. No. 8,617,457, and claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/505,958, entitled Method and Apparatus for Condensing Liquid Magnesium and Other Volatile Metals from Low-Pressure Metal Vapor, filed on Jul. 8, 2011, the contents of which are incorporated in its entirety by reference herein. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The invention generally relates to recovering metallic species in a vapor state, and, more specifically, to condensing vapors of metals to achieve relatively high recovery of the same. 2. Description of Related Art Magnesium is the lowest-density engineering metal, with alloys exhibiting outstanding specific stiffness and strength. It exhibits a relatively low boiling point among metals, such that several processes produce it as a vapor, which enables in-line distillation. However, it also exhibits the highest vapor pressure at its melting point of all metals: nearly 2 torr. This makes it difficult to condense magnesium vapor as a liquid, because even with perfect mass transfer, significant magnesium remains in the vapor phase at its melting point, so one must control temperature very carefully to avoid either leaving significant magnesium in the vapor phase or producing solid metal particles. A liquid metal product is advantageous over solid product because it is much easier to remove a liquid from the process and cast it into ingots or parts, alloy it with other metals, or form other useful products than would be the case for solids. Condenser apparatus such as those of Allen (U.S. Pat. No. 2,514,275) and Pidgeon (U.S. Pat. No. 2,837,328), which have been the norm in the magnesium industry for decades, produce only solid magnesium. A liquid magnesium condenser by Schmidt (U.S. Pat. No. 3,505,063) produces magnesium-aluminum alloys which are suitable for aluminum alloy production, but do not contain sufficient magnesium for magnesium-base alloys. A device by Schoukens et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 7,641,711) condenses liquid magnesium from vapor with magnesium partial pressure of 0.7-1.2 atmospheres (70-120 kPa). This device recovers magnesium as a liquid for processes such as the Magnatherm metallothermic magnesium reduction technology (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,971,833 and 4,190,434), which can produce magnesium at that pressure. However, at the high temperature over 1800° C. required for metallothermic production near atmospheric pressure (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,090,996 and 5,383,953), other elements such as manganese, iron, nickel and copper are volatile and can enter the magnesium product as impurities. And Schoukens' condenser is not as effective when input magnesium partial pressure is below 0.7 atmospheres (70 kPa), e.g. the Pidgeon process (see U.S. Pat. No. 2,387,677) and similar low-pressure metallothermic reduction processes. Schmidt's patent (U.S. Pat. No. 3,505,063) gives another reason for difficulty in producing liquid magnesium from a metallothermic reduction vapor stream, which is the variable or “pulsed” rate of magnesium entry into the condenser and its vapor pressure, making it very difficult to control condenser temperature tightly enough to reliably produce liquid magnesium. The Solid Oxide Membrane (“SOM”) electrolysis process (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,976,354 and 6,299,742) shown in FIG. 1 efficiently produces pure oxygen gas and metals from metal oxides. When producing magnesium by SOM electrolysis (see, e.g., A. Krishnan, X. G. Lu and U. B. Pal, “Solid Oxide Membrane Process for Magnesium Production directly from Magnesium Oxide,” Metall. Mater. Trans. 36B:463, 2005), it is convenient to operate the electrolysis cell above the 1090° C. boiling point of magnesium, as operating at this temperature promotes high ionic conductivity of the zirconia SOM and purifies the magnesium product by distillation (as shown in FIG. 1 ). Unfortunately, when the magnesium product partial pressure is above a threshold, it reacts with and damages the zirconia SOM; that threshold equilibrium magnesium partial pressure is approximately 0.15 atm at 1150° C. and 0.33 atm at 1300° C. (15 and 33 kPa respectively). Unlike metallothermic reduction, in SOM Electrolysis the electric current determines the rate of magnesium production. And because it is easier to control the current in SOM electrolysis than the reaction rate in metallothermic processes, there is far less fluctuation in magnesium partial pressure and temperature at the condenser. This facilitates (but is not necessary for) operating a liquid condenser for this process, at whose magnesium partial pressure the condenser of Schoukens et al. is not effective as mentioned above. On the other hand, it is difficult to shut down and restart a self-heated electrolysis cell, such as SOM electrolysis of magnesium, due to salt freezing and other phenomena. Thus it is important for a magnesium condenser for this process to be able to operate continuously without periodically shutting off. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In one aspect of the invention, an apparatus and method for condensing metal vapor is disclosed. In another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for condensing metal vapors includes at least one inlet conduit for receiving a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas and a holding tank operatively connected to the at least one inlet conduit for receiving the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas from the at least one inlet conduit. The apparatus also includes at least one outlet conduit operatively connected to the holding tank for receiving the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas from the holding tank and at least a first cooling device operatively connected to the at least one outlet conduit to cause at least a portion of the metal vapor entering the at least one outlet conduit to condense to solid metal. The apparatus further includes at least one heater operatively connected to the at least one outlet conduit for causing at least a portion of the solid metal to melt and subsequently flow in to the holding tank and at least one sealing mechanism located at a distal end of the at least one outlet conduit for sealing the distal end of the at least one outlet conduit and preventing remaining metal vapor and carrier gas from exiting the distal end of the outlet conduit when the outlet conduit is being heated. In a further aspect of the invention, an apparatus for condensing metal vapors includes at least one inlet conduit for receiving a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas and a holding tank operatively connected to the at least one inlet conduit for receiving the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas from the at least one inlet conduit. The apparatus also includes at least one outlet conduit operatively connected to the holding tank for receiving the mixture of metal vapor and gas from the holding tank. The at least one outlet conduit has a proximal end located proximal to the holding tank and a distal end located distal to the holding tank. The at least one outlet conduit has a plurality of sections. The apparatus further includes a plurality of cooling devices operatively connected to the corresponding plurality of sections of the at least one outlet conduit to cause some of the metal vapor inside the corresponding section of the at least one outlet conduit to condense to solid metal and a plurality of heaters operatively connected to the corresponding plurality of sections of the at least one outlet conduit to cause the solid metal within the corresponding section of the at least one outlet conduit to melt. The apparatus also includes a controller for controlling the plurality of cooling devices and the plurality of heaters. The controller causes (1) a first cooling device of the plurality operatively connected to a first section of the at least one outlet conduit to cool and condense the metal vapor inside the first section of the at least one outlet conduit to solid metal, (2) subsequent to the operation of the first cooling device, a first heater of the plurality operatively connected to the first section of the at least one outlet conduit to heat and melt the solid metal inside the first section of the at least one outlet conduit, (3) a second cooling device of the plurality operatively connected to a second section of the at least one outlet conduit to cool and condense the metal vapor inside the second section of the at least one outlet conduit to solid metal, and (4) subsequent to the operations of the second cooling device, a second heater of the plurality operatively connected to the second section of the at least one outlet conduit to heat and melt the solid metal inside the second section of the at least one outlet conduit. In still another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for condensing metal vapors includes at least one inlet conduit for receiving a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas and a holding tank operatively connected to the at least one inlet conduit for receiving the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas from the at least one inlet conduit. The apparatus also includes at least one outlet conduit operatively connected to the holding tank for receiving the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas from the holding tank, at least a first cooling device operatively connected to the at least one outlet conduit to cause at least a portion of the metal vapor entering the at least one outlet conduit to condense to solid metal, and at least one mechanical device positioned inside the at least one outlet conduit that operates to push the solid metal from the at least one outlet conduit to the holding tank. In yet a further aspect of the invention, an apparatus for condensing metal vapors includes at least one inlet conduit for receiving a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas, a holding tank operatively connected to the at least one inlet conduit for receiving the metal vapor and carrier gas from the at least one inlet conduit, and at least one set of outlet conduits operatively connected to the holding tank for receiving the metal vapor and gas mixture from the holding tank. Each outlet conduit of the set has a shared input section and a shared output section, and each outlet conduit of the set has an individual output section. The apparatus also includes a set of cooling devices. Each cooling device is operatively connected to a corresponding outlet conduit to cause some of the metal vapor inside the outlet conduit to condense to solid metal. The apparatus further includes a set of heaters. Each heater being operatively connected to a corresponding outlet conduit to cause the solid metal inside the outlet conduit to melt. The apparatus also includes a plurality of valves operatively connected to the set of outlet conduits and a controller for controlling the set of cooling devices, the set of heaters, and the plurality of valves to cause the metal vapor and gas mixture to pass from the shared input section through the set of outlet conduits in parallel to the shared output section when each of the set of cooling devices is condensing solid metal in each of the corresponding outlet conduits, and to cause the metal vapor and gas mixture to pass from the shared input section through the set of outlet conduits in series to the individual output section of an outlet conduit of the set in which a corresponding cooling device is condensing solid metal when a heating device of the set is melting solid metal in the other outlet conduit of the set. In another aspect of the invention, a method for condensing metal vapors includes directing a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas in to at least one inlet conduit, directing the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas in to a holding tank and subsequently in to at least one outlet conduit operatively connected to the holding tank, and cooling the at least one outlet conduit to cause some of the metal vapor inside the at least one outlet conduit to condense to solid metal. The method further includes, subsequent to condensing solid metal, stopping the cooling of at least one of the outlet conduits and commencing heating of the same outlet conduits to cause the solid metal to melt to form liquid metal, collecting the liquid metal in the holding tank, and preventing the remaining metal vapor and carrier gas from exiting the same outlet conduits during at least a portion of the heating of the same outlet conduits. In still a further aspect of the invention, a method for condensing metal vapors includes directing a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas in to at least one inlet conduit and directing the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas in to a holding tank and subsequently in to at least one outlet conduit operatively connected to the holding tank. The at least one outlet conduit has a plurality of sections, and the first section is proximal to the holding tank. The method further includes cooling the first section of the at least one outlet conduit to cause some of the metal vapor inside the first section of the at least one outlet conduit to condense to solid metal, and, subsequent to condensing solid metal in the first section of the at least one outlet conduit, stopping the cooling of the first section of the at least one outlet conduit and commencing heating of the first section of the at least one outlet conduit to cause the solid metal to melt to form liquid metal. The method also includes cooling a second section of the at least one outlet conduit. The second section is distal to the first section of the at least one outlet conduit, to cause some of the metal vapor inside the second section of the at least one outlet conduit to condense to solid metal. The method also includes, subsequent to condensing solid metal in the second section of the at least one outlet conduit, stopping the cooling of the second section of the at least one outlet conduit and commencing heating of the second section of the at least one outlet conduit to cause the solid metal to melt to form liquid metal, collecting the liquid metal in the holding tank, and preventing the metal vapor and carrier gas from exiting the at least one outlet conduit during at least a portion of the heating of a distal-most section of the at least one outlet conduit. In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for condensing metal vapors includes directing a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas in to at least one inlet conduit, directing the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas in to a holding tank and subsequently in to at least one outlet conduit operatively connected to the holding tank. The method also includes cooling the at least one outlet conduit to cause some of the remaining metal vapor inside the at least one outlet conduit to condense to solid metal, and pushing the solid metal out of the at least one outlet conduit in to the holding tank. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic of a SOM electrolysis process for producing magnesium vapor. FIG. 2 is a schematic of a condenser according to a first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic of a second condenser embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4 . block diagram of a metal vapor source condenser and holding tank according to a third embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic of a fifth condenser embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic of a fifth condenser embodiment of the invention during normal operation of the condenser. FIG. 7 is a schematic of a fifth condenser embodiment of the invention during operation of the condenser to melt solid metal deposits in the condenser. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This disclosure describes methods and apparatuses for condensing liquid magnesium or other liquid metals or other species from the vapor state. Certain embodiments condense vapors with a partial pressure between 100 Pa and 70 kPa and recover over 95% of the input metal vapor in the liquid product. The embodiments are useful for producing liquid magnesium in combination with SOM Electrolysis, metallothermic reduction, distillation, and similar processes where it is necessary or convenient to form metal at low vapor pressure. FIG. 1 shows a schematic of an exemplary SOM electrolysis process and apparatus for obtaining pure magnesium metal from magnesium oxide (MgO). Magnesium oxide is heated in a molten salt bath and electrolyzed to form pure magnesium gas and pure oxygen gas. At the cathode of the exemplary apparatus, magnesium ions are reduced to form pure gaseous magnesium, which bubbles out of the molten salt bath. At the anode of the exemplary apparatus, oxygen anions are permitted to permeate a SOM membrane into liquid silver, where the oxygen anions are oxidized to pure oxygen gas, which bubbles out of the apparatus. Thus, the SOM apparatus shown in FIG. 1 can be a source of metal vapor, e.g., magnesium vapor. Other sources of metal vapor are also within the scope of the invention. FIG. 2 illustrates a condenser system 100 , which includes two condensing stages. The condenser system 100 includes a first condenser tube, conduit, or set of tubes or conduits (hereafter “inlet tube(s)”) 101 that carries the metal vapor from, e.g., a SOM electrolysis cell, with a carrier gas, illustratively argon, to a tank 102 . The tube/conduit walls are cooled by a fluid jacket 103 , illustratively with air or water as the cooling fluid, reducing the gas temperature from the entrance temperature to a temperature close to but not below the metal's melting point (m.p.), e.g., m.p.≦T≦m.p.+100° C. This range is illustrative; other values outside of this range are also within the scope of the invention. In addition, the use of a fluid jacket for cooling is but one illustrative example of how the conduit can be cooled. Other known chillers can be used and remain within the scope of the invention. As the gas temperature falls below the metal dew point (i.e. the temperature at which the metal equilibrium vapor pressure equals its partial pressure in the gas), then this condenses some of the metal in the vapor to a liquid 104 in the tube(s) 101 . The tube(s) 101 slope downward or descend vertically into the liquid metal tank 102 such that condensed liquid metal 104 in the tube(s) 101 flows into the tank 102 . The holding tank 102 contains the condensed liquid metal 104 , and the metal-bearing gas flows through this holding tank 102 past the condensed liquid metal 104 . The tank 102 is heated or cooled by an electric or gas heater or one or more fluid jacket(s) 105 to keep its temperature uniform and above though close to the metal's melting point, e.g., m.p.≦T≦m.p.+50° C. This range is illustrative; other values outside of this range are also within the scope of the invention. A second condenser tube, conduit, or set of tubes or conduits (hereafter “outlet tube(s)”) 106 leads the carrier gas-metal vapor mixture away from the tank 102 . The tube walls are cooled by a fluid jacket 107 and cool the gas to well below metal's melting point, condensing nearly all of the remaining metal as solids 108 . Mechanical action (physically pushing solid metal deposits out of the outlet tubes, e.g., into the liquid tank) and/or periodic remelting (periodically shutting off flow through one or more of the tubes, and heating it above the condensed metal melting point to melt the solid metal deposits) drives this metal into the holding tank 102 . A gas flow cutoff valve 109 located at the distal end of the outlet tube(s) 106 can be closed when an outlet tube 106 is being reheated to prevent metal vapor that results from the heating process from escaping the outlet tube 106 . One can heat the outlet tube(s) 106 to remelt the solid condensate 108 by electrical resistive heating elements 110 , by electromagnetic induction heating, by combustion flame, or by flowing hot fluid through a fluid jacket around it. This hot fluid can be hot fluid that is leaving fluid jacket 103 around the inlet tube(s) 101 that is subsequently diverted to the outlet tube(s) 106 to heat the outlet tube(s) 106 . For a magnesium condenser, the inlet tube(s) 101 , holding tank 102 and outlet tube(s) 106 can illustratively be made of carbon steel, nickel-free stainless steel alloys, carbon steel with a stainless steel cladding on the outside, titanium, or titanium alloys; other fabrication materials are also within the scope of the invention. Mechanical action to physically push solid metal deposits out of the outlet tubes can be achieved using a rod or cylinder with a slightly smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of the outlet tube(s). For example, the outer diameter of the rod or cylinder may be 0.25 inches to one inch smaller than the inner diameter of the outlet tube(s). This range is illustrative; other values outside of this range are also within the scope of the invention. The rod may be in a cylindrical shape for round outlet tube(s), or may be in the shape of a square or rectangle for outlet tube(s) that are square or rectangular in shape. The rod may be shaped in any way to match the shape of the outlet tube(s). Alternatively, a plunger device having a rod with a disc attached to the end, the disc being shaped in the same shape as the outlet tube(s) and having a slightly smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of the outlet tube(s), may be used. An additional method of removing solid metal from the outlet tube(s) is flushing the outlet tube(s) with liquid metal, which would result in melting of the solid metal and removal to the holding tank. To accomplish this, any liquid metal used to flush the outlet tube(s) must be sufficiently hot to melt the solid metal and avoid solidifying as it travels through the outlet tube(s). An additional method of removing solid metal from the outlet tube(s) is by further cooling the outlet tube(s) to achieve a sufficiently large thermal expansion coefficient difference between the solid metal within the outlet tube(s) and the metal of the outlet tube(s) itself. The large thermal expansion coefficient difference causes the solid metal within the outer tube(s) to peel off of the outlet tube(s). For example, because the thermal expansion coefficient difference between magnesium and steel is large—25 ppm per degree Celsius for magnesium and 12 ppm per degree Celsius for steel—if the outlet tube(s) are made of steel and contains solid magnesium, further cooling of the outlet tube(s) would result in peeling of the magnesium from the inner walls of the outlet tube(s). The peeled magnesium could then be more easily removed using mechanical action or by flushing the outlet tube(s) with liquid metal, as described above. The holding tank 102 optionally has a lid, cover, or other movable barrier 111 located above the surface of the liquid metal 104 and below the inlet tube(s) 101 and outlet tube(s) 106 to prevent evaporation of the liquid metal 104 contained in the holding tank 102 . This optional lid or cover 111 can be used to cover the liquid metal 104 in the holding tank 102 when there is no condensation of liquid metal occurring in the inlet tube(s) 101 and there is only solid metal condensation occurring in the outlet tube(s) 106 , which would occur when the partial pressure of the metal vapor in the carrier gas is below its equilibrium vapor pressure at its melting point. This lid or cover 111 is removed when the outlet tube(s) 106 are melting the solid metal to liquid metal or mechanically pushing the solid metal back to the holding tank 102 . One advantage of the features of the embodiments described herein is that the equilibrium vapor pressure of metal at the exit of the outlet tube(s) 106 can be much lower than that at the melting point of the metal, e.g., 10 − atm at 350° C. for magnesium, such that this apparatus can recover a larger fraction of the entering metal than would be possible without these features. This apparatus is therefore useful for condensing metal when its entering vapor pressure is well below the 0.7-1.2 atmosphere range, and even when the dew point of the entering metal vapor is below its melting point. It is also robust to fluctuations in input gas stream temperature and metal vapor pressure, such as those found in metallothermic production of magnesium. Another advantage is the ability to operate continuously without shutting off completely to remove condensed solid metal from the outlet tube(s), as some of those tubes can be selectively sealed off during melting, mechanical pushing, or flushing of the metal, while other tubes remain open and condensing more solid metal. Embodiments of the condenser apparatus are useful not only in conjunction with processes for primary production of metals such as magnesium, such as metallothermic and electrolysis processes, but also for processes which refine magnesium and other metals by distillation and electrorefining, and for other sources of metal vapor. FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment of a condenser system 200 that shares several of the features of condenser system 100 described above. In this second embodiment, the exits 201 of the inlet tube(s) 101 are submerged in the liquid metal 104 in the holding tank 102 such that they produce small bubbles 202 of metal vapor and the carrier gas of less than, e.g., 5 cm diameter, which float to the liquid metal surface. This range is illustrative; other values outside of this range are also within the scope of the invention. Such small bubbles 202 exhibit large surface area, which facilitates rapid gas-liquid heat and mass transfer kinetics, in order to cool the gas and condense some of its remaining metal as a liquid. Gas bubbles also stir liquid metal 104 , and in this case the carrier gas stirring the liquid metal 104 in the holding tank 102 can enhance heat transfer in order to keep the liquid metal temperature roughly uniform. As before, the liquid metal temperature should be above the metal's melting point. This stirring can also perform mixing of alloying elements, such as aluminum, manganese, rare-earth metals, and zinc into liquid magnesium, creating a homogeneous alloy. When zinc or other highly volatile metals are present in an alloy, the outlet tube(s) 106 can serve to condense and return any metal which evaporates back into the holding tank 102 . In this embodiment, the condensed liquid metal 104 thus serves as a coolant for the submerged portions of the tubes 101 and the gas mixture contained within them. FIG. 4 illustrates a third embodiment of a condenser system 300 . In this third embodiment, a gas pumping device or recirculating pump 301 recirculates the remaining carrier gas 302 , illustratively argon, from the outlet tube(s) exit back into a process chamber of a metal vapor source 303 , which generates the magnesium vapor, illustratively the SOM Electrolysis crucible. Optionally, the apparatus can continuously or periodically re-direct this argon through a cold trap in order to remove volatile elements or compounds by condensation; this cold trap is a condenser which cools the argon or other carrier gas, causing some of the volatile elements or other compounds that remain in the gas to condense out of the gas. Although not shown in the figure, the cold trap can be located between the condenser and carrier gas addition. This cold trap may illustratively be cooled by water, liquid nitrogen or argon, other refrigerants, or cold gases; other cooling fluids or devices are also within the scope of this invention. It may also have a heat exchanger such that argon or other carrier gas traveling from the condenser outlet tube(s) to the cold trap both heats and is partially cooled by the argon or other carrier gas returning from the cold trap, in order to reduce the energy or cooling fluid required to maintain the cold trap temperature. It may also include a means to add carrier gas before the recirculating pump 301 , which is the lowest-pressure part of the circuit, in order to maintain pressure and replace losses due to leakage. For this embodiment, the very low vapor pressure of metal remaining in the carrier gas 302 after solid metal condensation in the outlet tube(s) helps to prevent metal condensation in the cold trap and/or recirculation pump, which could cause clogging of the trap and/or pump and failure of the pump, and thus can be beneficial to the operation of the recirculating pump 301 . In a fourth embodiment of the invention, which shares many of the features of the previous embodiments of the invention, the outlet tube(s) have multiple melting zones along their length and operate in the following sequence. First, metal vapor enters a first zone of the outlet tube(s) from the holding tank. This first zone is the part of the outlet tube(s) that is closest to the holding tank. This first zone is initially cooled as described above, causing the metal vapor to condense to solid metal. This first zone is then heated as described above, causing the solid metal to melt to liquid metal, which flows back into the holding tank. This heating process creates some metal vapor, which moves further up the outlet tube(s) to a second zone of the outlet tube(s). This second zone of the outlet tube(s) is initially cooled, causing metal vapor received from the first zone to condense to solid metal. This second zone is then heated, causing the solid metal to melt to liquid metal, which flows back to the first zone of the outlet tube(s) and eventually to the holding tank. This heating process creates some metal vapor, which moves further up the outlet tube(s) to a third zone of the outlet tube(s). This third zone of the outlet tube(s) is initially cooled, causing metal vapor received from the second zone to condense to solid metal. This third zone is then heated, causing the solid metal to melt to liquid metal, which flows back to the second zone of the outlet tube(s) and eventually back to the first zone of the outlet tube(s) and to the holding tank. This heating process creates some metal vapor, which moves further up the outlet tube(s) to additional zones. As described above, an optional gas flow cutoff valve is located at the distal end of the outlet tube(s). This gas flow cutoff valve is open during this process, allowing carrier gas to exit the outlet tube(s). To clear out the solid metal from the last zone of the outlet tube(s) without allowing metal vapor to escape from the outlet tube(s), the gas flow cutoff valve is closed and the last zone is subsequently heated, causing the solid metal in the last zone to melt to liquid metal, which flows back to the previous zone. Because the gas flow cutoff valve is closed, any metal vapor that is created by the heating process remains in the outlet tube(s). The last zone of the outlet tube(s) is then re-cooled, and the gas flow cutoff valve is opened. Alternatively, multiple zones can be simultaneously heated during this process. In this fourth embodiment, each additional zone reduces the amount of metal vapor which exits the condenser, and/or reduces the downtime required for a given limitation on the amount of metal vapor exiting the condenser. That is, if operating continuously with one zone periodically melting results in a time-averaged fraction a of metal exiting the condenser during its heating time (for example, it heats and melts metal one tenth of the time, resulting in one tenth of the metal entering the second condenser tube, so a=0.1), then two zones can theoretically reduce the metal exit loss to a 2 (in this example a 2 =0.01 so 99% of the metal is retained), and three zones would reduce it to a 3 , and so on. Or if operating with one zone periodically melting results in a fraction of the time b in which the carrier gas flow is shut off (for example, it heats and melts metal without carrier gas flow one tenth of the time, resulting in one tenth downtime, so b=0.1), then operating with two zones can theoretically reduce downtime to b 2 (in this example, b 2 =0.01 so the process achieves 99% uptime), three zones would reduce it further to b 3 , and so on. In a fifth embodiment of the invention, shown in FIGS. 5-7 , a parallel system of outlet tubes allows for continuous metal vapor and carrier gas flow through the condenser without having to close off the flow for any period of time. FIG. 5 shows the parallel system of outlet tubes, with an inlet 401 for receiving metal vapor and carrier gas from the holding tank, a left condenser tube 402 and a right condenser tube 403 for condensing metal vapor to solid metal, a main exhaust 404 for exhausting carrier gas, a main exhaust outlet valve 412 , a right outlet exhaust 405 and a left outlet exhaust 407 for exhausting carrier gas, and a right outlet valve 406 and a left outlet valve 408 . The left condenser tube 402 also has a left condenser tube inlet valve 410 and a right condenser tube inlet valve 411 which are located proximal to the inlet 401 . FIG. 6 shows the parallel outlet tube system in parallel operation. Remaining metal vapor and carrier gas flows from the holding tank in to inlet 401 and subsequently in to left condenser tube 402 and right condenser tube 403 , which are both connected to inlet 401 . The left and right condenser tubes 402 and 403 are cooled by fluid jackets or other cooling means, which cool the vapor and gas to well below metal's melting point, condensing nearly all of the remaining metal as solids. The carrier gas subsequently flows out of the condenser through the main outlet 404 . FIG. 7 shows the mechanism by which the solid metal is melted and collected in the holding tank. The main outlet valve 412 is closed, the right condenser tube outlet valve 406 is opened, and the right condenser tube inlet valve 411 is closed. This causes the remaining metal vapor and carrier gas 413 to flow from the holding tank through inlet 401 , through the left condenser tube 402 , through the right condenser tube 403 , and out the right condenser tube outlet 405 . The left condenser tube 402 is then heated above the metal's melting point, causing the solid metal in the left condenser tube 402 to melt, and the resulting liquid metal 409 to flow back through inlet 401 in to the holding tank. Any metal vapor that results from this heating process is carried to the right condenser tube 403 , where it is re-condensed to solid metal. After this process is allowed to run for some time, the left condenser tube 402 is cooled below the metal's melting point. The right condenser tube outlet valve 406 is then closed, the right condenser tube inlet valve 411 is opened, the left condenser tube outlet valve 408 is opened, and the left condenser tube inlet valve 410 is closed. This causes the remaining metal vapor and carrier gas to flow from the holding tank through inlet 401 , through the right condenser tube 403 , through the left condenser tube 402 , and out the left condenser tube outlet 407 . The right condenser tube 403 is then heated above the metal's melting point, causing the solid metal in the right condenser tube 403 to melt, and the resulting liquid metal to flow back through inlet 401 in to the holding tank. Any metal vapor that results from this heating process is carried to the left condenser tube 402 , where it is re-condensed to solid metal. After this process is allowed to run for some time, the right condenser tube 403 is cooled below the metal's melting point. The condenser system is then returned to its standard operating state by closing left condenser tube outlet valve 408 , opening left condenser tube inlet valve 410 , and opening main outlet valve 412 . In certain of the embodiments described above, the various heaters, cooling device, valves, pumps, and other system elements are controlled by a process control system or controller (e.g. controller 112 of FIG. 2 ), such as any known in the art. For example, the control elements (heater, coolers, valves, etc.) can be connected to a Distributed Control System (DCS), Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), or other types of process automation equipment. The controller contains logic that modulates the valves to obtain the desired flow path through the various conduits of the condenser systems. In addition, the controller cycles the heaters and cooling devices (in the case of on/off devices) and/or modulates the heating and or cooling to obtain the desired temperature ranges. The control system, logic, and/or operation of the various equipment disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program product with associated database(s) for use with a computer system or computerized electronic device. Such implementations may include a series of computer instructions, or logic, fixed either on a tangible medium, such as a computer readable medium (e.g., a diskette, CD-ROM, ROM, flash memory or other memory or fixed disk) or transmittable to a computer system or a device, via a modem or other interface device, such as a communications adapter connected to a network over a medium. The medium may be either a tangible medium (e.g., optical or analog communications lines) or a medium implemented with wireless techniques (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular, microwave, infrared or other transmission techniques). The series of computer instructions embodies at least part of the functionality described herein with respect to certain embodiments of the system. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that such computer instructions can be written in a number of programming languages for use with many computer architectures or operating systems. Furthermore, such instructions may be stored in any tangible memory device, such as semiconductor, magnetic, optical or other memory devices, and may be transmitted using any communications technology, such as optical, infrared, microwave, or other transmission technologies. It is expected that such a computer program product may be distributed as a removable medium with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink wrapped software), preloaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board over the network (e.g., the Internet or World Wide Web). Of course, some embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a combination of both software (e.g., a computer program product) and hardware. Still other embodiments of the invention are implemented as entirely hardware, or entirely software (e.g., a computer program product). In one experiment conducted using an embodiment of the invention, magnesium vapor entered a condenser system at approximately 1000 degrees Celsius and was cooled to about 750 degrees Celsius in an inlet tube, causing some of the magnesium vapor to condense to liquid magnesium. The remaining magnesium vapor and carrier gas was directed to cooled outlet tubes that were cooled to 150 degrees Celsius, according to the invention. The gas that was exhausted from these outlet tubes contained no measurable amount of magnesium. In another planned series of experiments using an embodiment of the invention, metal vapor and carrier gas will be condensed to liquid metal in an inlet tube, the liquid metal will be collected in a holding tank, and the remaining metal vapor and carrier gas will enter a series of two outlet tubes that are connected in series and cooled. In one experiment, the first outlet tube which is connected to the holding tank will be periodically heated to melt the solid metal, which will flow back to the holding tank, or a mechanical device will be used to push the condensed solid metal back to the holding tank. The second outlet tube, which is connected to the distal end of the first outlet tube, will not be heated. At the end of the experiment, the first and second outlet tubes will weighed to determine the amount of solid metal in the two tubes. We anticipate that the additional mass of metal will be less than 1% of the mass of the metal in the holding tank. In a second experiment, the first and second outlet tubes will be cooled continuously. At the end of the experiment, the first and second outlet tubes will be weighed to determine the amount of solid metal in the two tubes. We anticipate that the additional mass of metal will be approximately 4% to 5% of the mass of the metal in the holding tank. We anticipate that this series of experiments will show the effectiveness of a two-stage condenser. It would be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the condenser apparatuses described herein can be used with numerous metals other than magnesium, including, inter alia, calcium, copper, zinc, sodium, potassium, lithium, and samarium. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. Several embodiments of the claimed invention have been shown, for example, in FIGS. 1-7 , but other embodiments exist that would also fall within the scope of the claims. The description above is illustrative; the invention is defined by the following claims.
Methods for condensing metal vapors comprising directing a mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas into at least one inlet conduit are provided. Some methods comprise directing the mixture of metal vapor and carrier gas into a holding tank for liquid metal and subsequently into at least one outlet conduit operatively connected to the tank; cooling the at least one outlet conduit to cause some of the metal vapor inside the conduit to condense to solid metal; subsequent to condensing solid metal, stopping the cooling of at least one of the outlet conduits and commencing heating of the same outlet conduits to cause the solid metal to melt to form liquid metal; collecting the liquid metal in the tank; and preventing the remaining metal vapor and carrier gas from exiting the same outlet conduits during at least a portion of the heating of the same outlet conduits.
2
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is a continuation, under 35 U.S.C. §120, of copending international application No. PCT/EP2013/058597, filed Apr. 25, 2013, which designated the United States; this application also claims the priority, under 35 U.S.C. §119, of German patent application No. 10 2012 207 044.3, filed Apr. 27, 2012; the prior applications are herewith incorporated by reference in their entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention [0002] The invention relates to a fabric tape or fabric web, in particular a forming wire, for a machine for manufacturing and/or processing a fibrous web, in particular a paper web, cardboard web or tissue web. [0003] Modern fabric tapes which are employed as a forming wire in a forming section of a paper-, cardboard- or tissue-making machine typically have a first fabric layer which provides a paper side which can be brought into contact with the paper web, and a second fabric layer which provides a machine side which can be brought into contact with elements of the machine. Different requirements are set here for the first and the second fabric layers, specifically in terms of the first fabric layer providing as good a fiber support as possible when forming and dewatering the fibrous web and of the second fabric layer essentially providing the wear volume and the dimensional stability of the fabric tape. [0004] Fabric tapes which are configured as forming wires in which the ratio of the number of longitudinal threads of the first fabric layer to the number of longitudinal threads of the second fabric layer is 1:1 are known from the prior art. Such forming wires have the disadvantage that the use of comparatively thick longitudinal threads of the second fabric layer, for providing an adequately high dimensional stability of the wire, leads to a rather open upper fabric layer having only slight fiber support. In order to overcome the disadvantages of such wires, in the past wires having a ratio of the number of longitudinal threads of the first fabric layer to the number of longitudinal threads of the second fabric layer of more than one have been proposed, such as 2:1, 3:2 or 5:2 for example. On account thereof, it became possible to achieve both satisfactory fiber support by way of the first fabric layer and also satisfactory dimensional stability by way of the second fabric layer. It has proven disadvantageous in the aforementioned wires that often an increased tendency toward visible hydraulic markings of the fibrous web produced thereon exists, as does insufficient planarity of the first fabric layer, since the longitudinal threads of the first fabric layer (first longitudinal threads) are only insufficiently supported by the longitudinal threads of the second fabric layer (second longitudinal threads). Insufficient planarity may lead to an undesirable accumulation of fibers and filler material in the “depressions” of the first fabric layer. [0005] In the case of the forming wires known from the prior art, these disadvantages are observed as the ratio of the number of upper longitudinal threads to the number of lower longitudinal threads increases. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0006] It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a forming wire which overcomes the disadvantages of the heretofore-known devices of this general type and which provides for a fabric tape for use as a forming wire in a machine for manufacturing and/or processing a fibrous web, such as in particular a paper web, cardboard web or tissue web, which, on the one hand, provides high fiber support for a fibrous web to be formed and dewatered thereon, in conjunction with good dimensional stability, and which, on the other hand, has only few hydraulic markings and also improved planarity of the first fabric layer, in contrast to the wires known from the prior art. [0007] With the above and other objects in view there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a fabric tape for a machine for manufacturing and/or processing a fibrous web, the fabric tape comprising: [0008] a first fabric layer having first longitudinal threads and first cross threads interwoven with said first longitudinal threads; [0009] a second fabric layer having second longitudinal threads and second cross threads interwoven with said second longitudinal threads; [0010] said first and second fabric layers being disposed on top of one another and having a weaving pattern repeated in repeats; [0011] said first longitudinal threads and said second longitudinal threads in each repeat being disposed in a plurality of groups, having one first group and one second group and at least one further of said first and/or second group; [0012] each said first group being formed by one first longitudinal thread and one second longitudinal thread disposed below said one first longitudinal thread; [0013] each second group being formed by two first longitudinal threads and one second longitudinal thread disposed below said two first longitudinal threads; [0014] said first and second longitudinal threads in each group, viewed in a projection perpendicularly onto said fabric layers, being disposed so as not to be offset or only slightly offset in relation to one another, so as to form at maximum a free space of half a diameter of a first longitudinal thread therebetween. [0015] In other words, the objects of the invention are achieved by a fabric tape, in particular a forming wire, for a machine for manufacturing and/or processing a fibrous web, that comprises a first fabric layer having first longitudinal threads and, interwoven therewith, first cross threads, and a second fabric layer having second longitudinal threads and, interwoven therewith, second cross threads, in which the two fabric layers are disposed on top of one another and the weaving pattern of the fabric tape is repeated in repeats and the first longitudinal threads and the second longitudinal threads in each repeat are disposed in a plurality of groups. The fabric tape according to the invention here comprises in each repeat one first group and one second group and at least one further group selected from the first and/or second group, wherein each first group is formed by one first longitudinal thread and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread, and each second group is formed in each case by two first longitudinal threads and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread, and wherein the first and second longitudinal threads belong to a respective group, when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers, are disposed so as not to be offset or only slightly offset in relation to one another, such that at maximum a free space of half a diameter of a first longitudinal thread is formed between them. [0016] For exemplification, FIGS. 4 and 5 , in a sectional plane which runs along the cross-thread direction CD and perpendicularly to the fabric layers and/or to the planes PS, MS defined thereby, show a second group 6 and a first group 5 of longitudinal threads 3 , 4 . It can be seen that the first and second longitudinal threads 3 , 4 are disposed on top of one another in such a manner that said threads, when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers and/or onto the planes PS, MS defined thereby—identified by the lines A-A—are disposed just that slightly offset in relation to one another that at maximum a free space of half a diameter d/2 of a first longitudinal thread 3 is formed between them. [0017] On account of the use of at least one first group and at least two second groups or of at least one second group and at least two first groups per repeat, according to the solution according to the invention, it is ensured that each first longitudinal thread is adequately supported by one second longitudinal thread. On account thereof, planarity of the first fabric layer is significantly increased in comparison with the fabric tapes known from the prior art. Since, furthermore, distinctly different dewatering behaviors are caused by way of the first and second groups and at least one first group and a plurality of second groups or at least one second group and a plurality of first groups are disposed in each repeat, a regular and thus easily visible hydraulic marking pattern of the fibrous web manufactured on such a fabric tape is effectively inhibited. [0018] Here, a first and a second longitudinal thread are not to be considered as being offset in relation to one another if the straight line connecting the center point of the cross-sectional area of the first longitudinal thread and the center point of the cross-sectional area of the second longitudinal thread runs vertically to a plane defined by the first fabric layer. [0019] Advantageous embodiments and refinements of the invention are stated in the dependent claims. [0020] Advantageously, different numbers of first and second groups are provided in each repeat. Since the first and second groups have different dewatering behaviors and thus marking behaviors, it has been demonstrated that on account of this measure of different numbers of first and second groups in the repeat, an irregularity in the marking pattern can be generated, on account of which the markings are significantly less visible. This embodiment furthermore offers the possibility of influencing the dewatering behavior of the wire. In the event, for example, that more first groups than second groups are employed, a wire having a higher dewatering performance can be achieved than when more second groups than first groups are employed. [0021] It is particularly conceivable in this context that the following applies: [0022] A=N×B; where A=number of the first groups in the repeat B=number of the second groups in the repeat N=integer greater than 1 [0026] or [0027] C=M×D; where C=number of the second groups in the repeat D=number of the first groups in the repeat M is an integer greater than 1. [0031] Specifically, the number of the first groups in the repeat may be 6 and the number of the second groups in the repeat may be 3, for example. Alternatively, the number of the second groups in the repeat may be 6 and the number of the first groups in the repeat may be 3, for example. [0032] If an unequal number of first and second groups in the repeat is provided, it is particularly advantageous for the first and second groups in the repeat to be disposed in a plurality of superordinate groups of longitudinal threads, wherein each superordinate group of longitudinal threads comprises a first group and a second group and at least one further group selected from the first or second group, and wherein the repeat is formed by an integral number of superordinate groups of longitudinal threads which are disposed next to one another in the cross-thread direction. This means that only an integral number of superordinate groups of longitudinal threads are disposed in the repeat and no further other first and/or second group which is not a component part of one of the superordinate groups of longitudinal threads is present. [0033] On account of the provision of a plurality of superordinate groups of longitudinal threads disposed next to one another in the repeat, a certain degree of regularity in the arrangement of the first and second groups is again achieved, on account of which a concentration of a plurality of identical groups being disposed immediately next to one another can be avoided. [0034] In this context, a superordinate group of longitudinal threads may be formed by one first group and two second groups, for example. It is also conceivable for a superordinate group of longitudinal threads to be formed by two first groups and one second group. [0035] Preferably, more second groups than first groups are provided in the repeat. Furthermore preferably, more second groups than first groups are provided in each superordinate group. [0036] In order to achieve good fiber support of the dewatered fibrous web formed on the fabric tape according to the invention, it is preferably provided that the first fabric layer has an outer side which faces away from the second fabric layer and which, in the intended use of the fabric tape, provides a paper side which can be brought into contact with the fibrous material. It is furthermore preferably provided that the second fabric layer has an outer side which faces away from the first fabric layer and which, in the intended use of the fabric tape, provides a machine side which can be brought into contact with the machine. [0037] In order to further avoid visible hydraulic markings as a result of a regular marking pattern it is furthermore advantageous for at maximum four of the same groups of the first or second group to be disposed directly next to one another. [0038] Possibly, but not ultimately, the following configurations of the invention are conceivable with respect to the arrangement of first and second groups within each superordinate group (note: in the following, a first group is identified here using the symbol 1:1 and a second group using the symbol 2:1). 1) Each superordinate group comprises the following three first and second groups 2:1-2:1-1:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.67. 2) Each superordinate group comprises the following five first and second groups 2:1-1:1-2:1-1:1-2:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.6. 3) Each superordinate group comprises the following four first and second groups 2:1-2:1-2:1-1:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.75. 4) Each superordinate group comprises the following five first and second groups 1:1-1:1-1:1-1:1-2:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.2. 5) Each superordinate group comprises the following four first and second groups 1:1-1:1-1:1-2:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.25. 6) Each superordinate group comprises the following three first and second groups 1:1-1:1-2:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.33. 7) Each superordinate group comprises the following eight first and second groups 1:1-1:1-2:1-1:1-1:1-2:1-1:1-2:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.375. 8) Each superordinate group comprises the following five first and second groups 1:1-2:1-1:1-2:1-1:1 and here has a ratio of the number of first longitudinal threads to the number of second longitudinal threads of 1.4. [0047] In the case of all abovementioned examples 1-3, more second groups than first groups are present in each superordinate group. In the case of all aforementioned examples 4-8, fewer second groups than first groups are present in each superordinate group. [0048] If more second than first groups are present, the focus of the wire construction is on a first fabric layer with a high number of fiber support points, wherein the fiber support points in the case of a plain weave are ascertained by multiplying the number of upper longitudinal threads by the effective number of upper cross threads, each pair of binder threads being classified in each case as an upper cross thread. On account of a high density of upper longitudinal threads, very thin upper cross threads may be used. The higher the ratio, the thinner the upper cross threads which may be used and the higher the number of fiber support points in a predefined number of upper cross threads. The number of pores is equal to the number of fiber support points. [0049] If more first than second groups are present, the construction focus of the wire is on a high fiber support index (FSI), since here more upper cross threads can be incorporated in the comparatively more open arrangement of upper longitudinal threads on the paper side of the first fabric layer. [0050] The fiber support index according to PCA awards double value to the number of upper cross threads as compared to the upper longitudinal threads. The shape of the openings (pores) formed on the paper side here is oriented in a cross-wise manner. The number of pores is equal to the number of fiber support points. These constructions are aimed at a very regular sheet formation, since the cross-wise oriented pores permit the paper fibers to penetrate the wire to a lesser extent and, on account thereof, very smooth fibrous-web surfaces can be achieved. [0051] The longitudinal threads of the fabric tape preferably provide only first and second groups. On account thereof, it is achieved that each upper longitudinal thread is supported by a lower longitudinal thread. [0052] In order to achieve further homogenization of the dewatering rates it is preferably provided that, when viewed in the direction along the cross threads, the first longitudinal threads are disposed offset in relation to the second longitudinal threads. [0053] The first and the second fabric layer of the fabric tape according to the invention are preferably connected to one another by binder threads which are disposed in pairs. [0054] In the case of the fabric tape according to the invention, the binder threads furthermore preferably extend in the direction of the cross threads. It should be noted at this stage that the longitudinal threads, in the intended use of the fabric tape in a paper-, cardboard- or tissue-making machine, extend in the conveying or machine direction of the fabric tape, and the cross threads extend in the machine cross direction. [0055] The two binder threads of the respective pair of binder threads are preferably interwoven in a mutually interchanging manner with first and second longitudinal threads, wherein the binder threads of each pair, when changing from being interwoven with first longitudinal threads to being interwoven with second longitudinal threads and vice-versa, intersect while configuring intersection points. [0056] The weaving path generated by interweaving the binder threads of one pair in a mutually interchanging manner with the first longitudinal threads preferably corresponds to a weaving path formed by interweaving a first cross thread with the first longitudinal threads. In this case, reference is made to “integral” binder threads, since the latter continue the weaving pattern formed by interweaving the first cross threads with the first longitudinal threads. [0057] Each pair of binder threads in the repeat preferably provides merely two intersection points. The small number of intersection points per repeat contributes toward a very smooth and planar paper side of the first fabric layer. [0058] It is furthermore provided that the binder threads of each pair, between immediately successive intersection points, form in each case first binder segments by interweaving with the first longitudinal threads, wherein at least one of the first binder segments of each pair of binder threads is formed in the repeat in that the respective binder thread, running on the outer side of the first fabric layer, intersects at least two, preferably at least three—such as, for example, four—not immediately successive first longitudinal threads. The long length of the first binder segments likewise contributes, as does the only small number of intersection points per repeat, toward a very smooth and planar paper side of the first fabric layer. [0059] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the binder threads, when changing from being interwoven with the first longitudinal threads to being interwoven with the second longitudinal threads and vice-versa, running between the two fabric layers, intersect at maximum four immediately adjoining, preferably at maximum three immediately adjoining second longitudinal threads. On account of the comparatively short inner float length of the binder threads between the two fabric layers a good balance is achieved between small thickness of the fabric tape according to the invention, on the one hand, and decoupling of the supporting binder points and covering binder points of the binder threads when interconnecting the two fabric layers by way of the binder threads. [0060] The binder threads of each pair of binder threads in the repeat together preferably form two first binder segments, wherein the one first binder segment is formed in that the one binder thread of the pair, when being interwoven with the first longitudinal threads, runs in an alternating manner on the outer side of the first fabric layer and between the first and second fabric layers and, running on the outer side of the first fabric layer, intersects at least two first longitudinal threads, and wherein the other first binder segment is formed in that the other binder thread of the pair, when being interwoven with the first longitudinal threads, runs in an alternating manner on the outer side of the first fabric layer and between the first and second fabric layers and, running on the outer side of the first fabric layer, intersects the same number of first longitudinal threads as the one binder thread, or up to four, in particular up to two fewer or more first longitudinal threads than the one binder thread. Also on account of the comparatively great length of the two first binder segments which, moreover, are of the same or almost the same length, the planarity of the first fabric layer is significantly increased, since, on account thereof, few intersection points of the mutually interchanging binder threads are created. [0061] The first fabric layer is preferably formed by interweaving the first longitudinal threads with the first cross threads and the binder threads, wherein the second fabric layer is formed by interweaving the second longitudinal threads with the second cross threads. This means that the binder threads are an integral component part of the first fabric layer and do not at all contribute toward forming the second fabric layer but merely connect the latter to the first fabric layer. [0062] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the weaving pattern of the first fabric layer forms a plain weave. [0063] It is also conceivable for the weaving pattern of the second fabric layer to be repeated in second repeats, wherein each second repeat is formed by N second longitudinal threads and 2×N second cross threads, wherein N is an integer greater than zero. [0064] It is particularly conceivable for the weaving pattern of the first fabric layer to form a plain weave and for the weaving pattern of the second fabric layer to be a regular or irregular satin weave, in particular a satin weave having N=5, or 6, or 8 second longitudinal threads and, according to the formula, 2×N=10, or 12, or 16 second cross threads. [0065] Alternatively thereto, it is conceivable for the weaving pattern of the first fabric layer to form a plain weave and for the weaving pattern of the second fabric layer to be a twill weave or a broken twill weave. [0066] The ratio of first warp threads to second warp threads is preferably greater than 1.5 and in particular smaller than 2. On account thereof, it is possible, for example, to provide both high fiber support with FSI values in the range from 260 to 300, in conjunction with high resistance to abrasion and/or dimensional stability of the fabric tape according to the invention. In this context, it is particularly conceivable for the ratio of first warp threads to second warp threads to be 5:3. [0067] The diameter of the second longitudinal threads preferably lies in the range from 0.15 mm to 0.45 mm, wherein in particular the first longitudinal threads have a diameter of 30% to 60%, preferably 38% to 53%, of the diameter of the second longitudinal threads. On account thereof, a fabric tape having a particularly fine first fabric layer, the second fabric layer of which, however, is sufficiently stable in order to provide a high wear volume and/or high dimensional stability, can be created. [0068] In order to achieve a particularly fine paper side which offers high fiber support, it is in particular conceivable for the first longitudinal threads to have a diameter of 0.1 mm or smaller. [0069] In order to provide high fiber support, it is in particular furthermore provided that the ratio of the number of first cross threads and pairs of binder threads to the number of second cross threads is greater than or equal to 2, in particular is 2:1, or 3:2, or 5:3. [0070] According to a further particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it is in particular conceivable for the first cross threads, the binder threads which are disposed in pairs, and the second cross threads to be disposed in first, second, third, and fourth cross-thread groups, wherein [0071] a first cross-thread group is formed by one first and one second cross thread and one pair of binder threads, [0072] a second cross-thread group is formed by two first cross threads and two second cross threads and one pair of binder threads, [0073] a third cross-thread group is formed by one first cross thread and two second cross threads and one pair of binder threads, and [0074] a fourth cross-thread group is formed by two first cross threads and one second cross thread and one pair of binder threads. [0075] The aforementioned refinement may also represent an invention which is independent of the present invention and may be the subject matter of a separate patent application. [0076] In this context, it is particularly conceivable for the cross threads and binder threads in the repeat to be disposed in a plurality of superordinate groups of cross threads, wherein one superordinate group of cross threads is formed by at least two cross-thread groups selected from the first, second, third or fourth cross-thread group, and wherein the repeat is formed by an integral number of superordinate groups of cross threads which are disposed next to one another in the longitudinal-thread direction. This means that only an integral number of the superordinate group of cross threads are disposed in the repeat and no further other first and/or second cross-thread group which is not a component part of one of the superordinate groups of cross threads is present. [0077] Here, under each first cross thread, one second cross thread is preferably disposed in such a manner that each first cross thread is supported by a second cross thread. On account thereof, cross-wise stability of the fabric tape according to the invention is significantly increased. [0078] When viewed in the direction along the longitudinal threads, at least some of the first and the second cross threads are preferably disposed so as to be offset in relation to one another. Here, a first and a second cross thread are not to be considered as being offset in relation to one another if the straight line connecting the center point of the cross-sectional area of the first cross thread and the center point of the cross-sectional area of the second cross thread runs vertically to a plane defined by the first fabric layer. [0079] In order to obtain as regular a first fabric layer as possible, it is particularly meaningful for the first cross threads and/or the binder threads to have a diameter of 80% to 120% of the diameter of the first longitudinal threads. [0080] In the case of the fabric tape according to the invention being a so-called “weft runner”, that is to say a fabric tape in which the machine side is substantially provided by the abrasion volume of the second cross threads, it is particularly meaningful for the second cross threads to have a diameter of 100% to 200% of the diameter of the second longitudinal threads. [0081] In the event that the threads do not have a circular cross-sectional area, the term diameter is intended to mean the diameter of a circular cross-sectional area which has the same surface area as the cross-sectional area which does not have a circular cross section. [0082] The first fabric layer of the fabric tape according to the invention, according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, preferably has a fiber support index (FSI) of 260 to 300, calculated according to the publication “Approved Standard Measuring Method” of the Papermachine Clothing Association (PCA), 19 Rue de la République, 45000 Orléans, France, dated June 2004. On account thereof, it is possible to ensure very good fiber support and retention. [0083] In order to achieve, on the other hand, a high dewatering performance, it is furthermore meaningful for high permeability to be provided despite the abovementioned high FSI value. According to a further particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it is thus provided that the fabric tape has a permeability in the range of 250 cfm to 450 cfm, preferably 300 cfm to 400 cfm, measured at a differential pressure of 100 to 127 Pa, as laid down in the publication “Approved Standard Measuring Method” of the Papermachine Clothing Association (PCA), 19 Rue de la République, 45000 Orléans, France, dated June 2004. [0084] Other features which are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. [0085] Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a forming wire, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. [0086] The construction and method of operation of the invention, however, together with additional objects and advantages thereof will be best understood from the following description of specific embodiments when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING [0087] FIGS. 1A , 1 B, 1 C, 1 D, and 1 E are highly diagrammatic view of various designs of the construction and the arrangement of the two layers of longitudinal threads, according to the invention; [0088] FIG. 2 shows a repeat of a further embodiment of a fabric tape according to the invention, in the direction of the cross threads; [0089] FIG. 3 shows the arrangement of the two layers of longitudinal threads of the fabric tape shown in FIG. 2 ; [0090] FIG. 4 shows the arrangement of a second group of longitudinal threads; and [0091] FIG. 5 shows the arrangement of a first group of longitudinal threads. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0092] Referring now to the figures of the drawing in detail and first, particularly, to FIGS. 1A to 1E thereof, there are shown a plurality of designs of the construction and the arrangement of longitudinal threads 3 , 4 in a first and second fabric layer 1 , 2 of a fabric tape according to the invention. The illustration of FIGS. 1A-1E shows the relative arrangement of the longitudinal threads 3 , 4 of a first and second fabric layer 1 , 2 , in a sectional plane which is perpendicular to the first and second longitudinal threads 3 , 4 . For the sake of clarity, an illustration of the cross threads and (any potential) binder threads of the fabric tape according to the invention has been dispensed with in FIGS. 1A-1E . It should furthermore be noted that the arrangements of first and second groups, shown in FIGS. 1A-1E , may be repeated several times in the repeat of a fabric tape according to the invention, that is to say that the arrangement shown in the respective figure in each case represents one superordinate group of longitudinal threads which is repeated several times in the repeat, wherein the repeat is formed only by an integral number of the shown superordinate groups of longitudinal threads which are disposed next to one another in the cross-thread direction. [0093] As can be identified in FIG. 1A , the two fabric layers 1 , 2 are disposed on top of one another, and the first longitudinal threads 3 and the second longitudinal threads 4 are disposed in a plurality of groups 5 , 6 . In the present case, four first groups 5 and one second group 6 are formed here, that is to say that one superordinate group of longitudinal threads is formed by four first groups 5 and one second group 6 . The first groups 5 are all disposed in an immediately adjoining manner to one another, followed by the one second group 6 . Each of the first groups 5 , in the present case, is constructed from one first longitudinal thread 3 and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread 4 , wherein, in the present case, the first and second longitudinal threads 3 , 4 , when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers, are disposed so as not to be offset in relation to one another. The second group 6 is furthermore constructed from two first longitudinal threads 3 and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread 4 , wherein, in the present case, the two first longitudinal threads, when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers 1 , 2 , are disposed so as to be only slightly offset in relation to one another, such that said two first longitudinal threads mutually overlap. In the present case, the ratio of first longitudinal threads to second longitudinal threads is 6:5=1.2. [0094] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A merely in that the fabric tape comprises only three first groups instead of four first groups, that is to say that one superordinate group of longitudinal threads is formed by three first groups 5 and one second group 6 . Therefore, the ratio of first longitudinal threads to second longitudinal threads is 5:4=1.25. Except for this, all other implementations realized in FIG. 1A also apply to the embodiment of FIG. 1B . [0095] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1C differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A only in that the fabric tape comprises only two first groups instead of four first groups, that is to say one superordinate group of longitudinal threads is formed by two first groups 5 and one second group 6 . Therefore, the ratio of first longitudinal threads to second longitudinal threads is 4:3=1.333. Except for this, all other implementations realized in FIG. 1A also apply to the embodiment of FIG. 1C . [0096] As can be identified in FIG. 1D , the two fabric layers 1 , 2 are disposed on top of one another, and the first longitudinal threads 3 and the second longitudinal threads 4 are disposed in a plurality of groups 5 , 6 . In the present case, seven first groups 5 and three second groups 6 are formed here, that is to say that one superordinate group of longitudinal threads is formed by seven first groups 5 and three second groups 6 . The arrangement of the first and second groups 5 , 6 in relation to one another here is such that an arrangement which is formed from three immediately adjoining first groups 5 is provided, followed by one united second group 6 , and in turn followed by an arrangement from three immediately adjoining first groups 5 , and on which, following therefrom, in turn one second group 6 , one first group 5 and again one second group 6 are disposed in an alternating manner. In the present case, each of the first groups 5 is constructed from one first longitudinal thread 3 and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread 4 , wherein, in the present case, the first and second longitudinal threads 3 , 4 , when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers, are disposed so as not to be offset in relation to one another. The second group 6 is furthermore constructed from two first longitudinal threads 3 and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread 4 , wherein, in the present case, the two first longitudinal threads, when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers 1 , 2 , are disposed so as to be only slightly offset in relation to one another, such that said two first longitudinal threads mutually overlap. In the present case, the ratio of first longitudinal threads to second longitudinal threads is 13:10=1.3. [0097] As can be identified in FIG. 1E , the two fabric layers 1 , 2 are disposed on top of one another, and the first longitudinal threads 3 and the second longitudinal threads 4 are disposed in a plurality of groups 5 , 6 . In the present case, three first groups 5 and two second groups 6 are formed here, that is to say that one superordinate group of longitudinal threads is formed by three first groups 5 and two second groups 6 . Immediately successive first groups 5 are in each case separated from one another by one second group 6 . In the present case, each of the first groups 5 is constructed from one first longitudinal thread 3 and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread 4 , wherein, in the present case, the first and second longitudinal threads 3 , 4 , when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers, are disposed so as not to be offset in relation to one another. The second group 6 is furthermore constructed from two first longitudinal threads 3 and, disposed therebelow, one second longitudinal thread 4 , wherein, in the present case, the two first longitudinal threads, when viewed in a projection which is perpendicular onto the fabric layers 1 , 2 , are disposed so as to be only slightly offset in relation to one another, such that said two first longitudinal threads mutually overlap. In the present case, the ratio of first longitudinal threads to second longitudinal threads is 7:5=1.4. [0098] FIG. 2 shows a repeat of a further embodiment of a fabric tape 100 according to the invention, in the direction of the cross threads. [0099] It should be pointed out that the illustration of FIG. 2 is a merely schematic one and in particular depicts the arrangement of the first and second longitudinal threads in relation to one another, according to the invention, only in an incomplete manner. The correct arrangement of the first and second longitudinal threads is depicted in FIG. 3 , however, without the cross threads and binder threads being shown there. [0100] The fabric tape 100 has a first fabric layer 101 and a second fabric layer 102 . The outer side of the first fabric layer 101 , which faces away from the second fabric layer 102 , here provides a paper side, and the outer side of the second fabric layer 102 , which faces away from the first fabric layer 101 , provides a machine side. [0101] The first fabric layer 101 is formed by interweaving first longitudinal threads 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 28, 30, and 32 with the first cross threads T1-T12 and with the binder threads Bi1-Bi12, which are disposed in pairs, wherein the weaving pattern of the first fabric layer is a plain weave. [0102] The second fabric layer 102 is formed by interweaving second longitudinal threads 2, 5, 7, 10, 13, 15, 18, 21, 23, 26, 29, and 31 with second cross threads B1-B12, wherein the weaving pattern of the second fabric layer is a satin weave which is repeated in second repeats which are formed from six second longitudinal threads and six second cross threads. [0103] The ratio of the first longitudinal threads to the second longitudinal threads in the present case is 5:3. Furthermore, the ratio of first cross threads and pairs of binder threads—here, each pair of binder threads counts as one first cross thread—to the second cross threads is 3:2. [0104] As can be obtained from the illustration of FIG. 2 , two first cross threads T1-T12 and two second cross threads B1-B12 are in each case disposed between two immediately successive pairs of binder threads Bi1/Bi2; Bi3/Bi4; Bi5/Bi6; Bi7/Bi8; Bi9/Bi10; Bi11/B12. [0105] The binder threads which are disposed in pairs of each pair are interwoven in a mutually interchanging manner with the first and the second longitudinal threads and here intersect when changing from being interwoven with first longitudinal threads to being interwoven with second longitudinal threads and vice-versa, while configuring intersection points K1, K2. In the present case, each pair of binder threads Bi1/Bi2; Bi3/Bi4; Bi5/Bi6; Bi7/Bi8; Bi9/Bi10; Bi11/Bi12 in the repeat provides two intersection points K1, K2, wherein the binder threads, when changing from being interwoven with the first longitudinal threads to being interwoven with the second longitudinal threads and vice-versa, running between the two fabric layers 101 , 102 intersect at maximum three immediately adjoining second longitudinal threads. [0106] Furthermore, in the present case the binder threads of each pair of binder threads in the repeat together form in each case two first binder segments BS1, BS2, wherein the one first binder segment BS1 is formed in that the one binder thread of the pair, when being interwoven with the first longitudinal threads, runs in an alternating manner on the outer side of the first fabric layer 101 and between the first and second fabric layers 101 , 102 and, running on the outer side of the first fabric layer 101 , intersects at least five first longitudinal threads, and wherein the other first binder segment BS2 is formed in that the other binder thread of the pair, when being interwoven with the first longitudinal threads, runs in an alternating manner on the outer side of the first fabric layer and between the first and second fabric layers and, running on the outer side of the first fabric layer, intersects the same number of first longitudinal threads as the one binder thread. [0107] FIG. 3 shows the relative arrangement of the first and second longitudinal threads of the fabric tape to one another, illustrated in FIG. 2 , using the example of the first longitudinal threads 1 , 3 , 4 , 6 and 8 and the second longitudinal threads 2 , 5 , and 7 . The arrangement shown here of first groups I and second groups II represents a superordinate group OG of longitudinal threads which is repeated four times in the repeat, such that the repeat of the fabric tape has the following arrangement of first and second groups: [0108] second group-first group-second group-second group-first group-second group-second group-first group-second group-second group-first group-second group. [0109] In other words, the repeat is formed by four superordinate groups OG of longitudinal threads which are disposed next to one another in the cross-thread direction. [0110] This means that in the present exemplary embodiment the longitudinal threads of the fabric tape 100 form only first and second groups, wherein, in the present case, eight second groups II and four first groups I are present in the repeat. [0111] One identifies that the first longitudinal threads 1 , 3 form a second group II with the second longitudinal thread 2 . One furthermore identifies that the first longitudinal threads 6 , 8 form a further second group II with the second longitudinal thread 7 . One first group, which is formed by the first longitudinal thread 4 and the second longitudinal thread 5 , is disposed between the two aforementioned second groups. What has been stated above correspondingly applies to first and second groups I, II, which are formed by the further first and second longitudinal threads.
A woven-fabric web, such as a forming fabric or forming wire, for a machine for producing and/or processing a fibrous web, has a first woven-fabric layer with first longitudinal threads and first transverse threads interwoven with the first longitudinal threads and a second woven-fabric layer with second longitudinal threads and second transverse threads interwoven with the second longitudinal threads. The weaving pattern of the fabric is repeated in pattern repeats. The first and second longitudinal threads are arranged in a plurality of groups in each pattern repeat, with a first group and a second group and at least one further of the first and/or second group. Each first group is formed from a first longitudinal thread and a second longitudinal thread arranged below the first longitudinal thread and the first and second longitudinal threads in each group are arranged at no offset or only a slight offset in plan view.
3
This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 639,693, filed Dec. 11, 1975. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to a method and arrangement for automatically positioning a working implement, such as a drill bit, to predetermined positions and/or predetermined directions in space, wherein said predetermined positions and directions are defined by given values of respectively coordinates and an angle or angles in a system of coordinates. The invention may to advantage be used for rock drilling, which means that the working implement is a drill bit. The invention, however, is applicable generally to positioning of different types of working implements, for instance for controlling of industrial robots. When applying the invention to rock drilling it is, due to the irregularities of the rock surface intended to be worked, necessary to undertake measures in order to safeguard that the drill bit does not get stuck during movement from one predetermined position to another. According to one aspect of the invention the predetermined positions are programmed such that they are in an imaginary plane which is spaced from the rock surface. A further object of the invention is to provide an automatic movement of the working implement to programmed positions according to a pattern, such as a drilling pattern, such that the working implement is moved to a predetermined position and/or is adjusted to a predetermined direction in shorter time than is obtainable in hitherto known constructions for automatic movement of a working implement. To this end, the actual values of the coordinates and/or the angle or angles are sensed continuously. According to another aspect of the invention, the sensed actual values are adjusted simultaneously toward the values programmed in advance. In doing so, a considerable saving of time is achieved when comparing with constructions where the different means for moving the working implement are actuated in turn. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above and other purposes of the invention will become obvious from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which one embodiment is shown by way of example. It is to be understood that this embodiment is only illustrative of the invention and that various modifications thereof may be made within the scope of the claims following hereinafter. FIG. 1 is a side view of a drill boom and a feed bar having a rock drilling machine movable to and fro therealong, in which the invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a top view of the drill boom according to FIG. 1. FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 show in block diagram form the control means for the hydraulic cylinders which determine the position of the drill boom and feed bar shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT In FIGS. 1, 2, a drill boom 10 is carried pivotally on a cross shaft 11 which is supported by a boom bracket 12. The pivotal angle α y of the drill boom 10 about the cross shaft 11 is adjusted by means of hydraulic elevating cylinders 13, 14, which are coupled pivotally between the boom bracket 12 and the drill boom 10. The drill boom 10 can be swung about a shaft 16 which is perpendicular to the cross shaft 11 by means of a hydraulic swing cylinder 15. The swing angle about the shaft 16 is depicted α x . The drill boom 10 carries a boom head 17 at its distal end. A cross shaft 18 is journalled in the boom head 17. The cross shaft 18 carries a feed holder 19. A feed bar 20 is carried longitudinally slidably on the feed holder 19 by means of guides fixed thereon. The feed bar 20 carries in conventional manner a rock drilling machine 21 mechanically fed to and fro therealong. The rock drilling machine 21 rotates a drill steel 22 and delivers impacts thereagainst. The drill steel is guided by means of a drill steel centralizer 23 on the feed bar. The drill steel 22 carries a drill bit 24. A feed displacing hydraulic cylinder 48 is attached on the one hand to the feed holder 19, and on the other to the feed bar 20. The feed bar 20 is adjusted longitudinally relative to the drill boom 10 by extension or contraction of the hydraulic cylinder 48. A hydraulic tilt cylinder 25 is coupled pivotally between the boom head 17 and the feed holder 19. By means of the hydraulic cylinder 28 the feed holder 19 can be swung about a shaft 27 which is perpendicular to the cross shaft 18. The swing angle relative to the drill boom 10 about the shaft 27 is depicted α k . In order to define the position and direction of the drill bit 24 in an arbitrary point in space it is necessary to know the coordinates and angles of the drill bit 24 in a system of coordinates in space. In FIGS. 1, 2, a system of coordinates is marked having its origin in the intersection point of the geometric axis of the shaft 16 and a plane which is perpendicular to said geometric axis and which traverses the geometric axis of the cross shaft 11. The Y-axis coincides with the geometric axis of the shaft 16, the X-axis is parallel with the cross shaft 11 and the Z-axis is perpendicular to the X- and Y-axes and extends in the longitudinal direction of the drill boom 10. The distances along the X-axis and the Y-axis, respectively, from a reference point on the shaft 16 at the level of the cross shaft 11 to an imaginary line, which runs in the desired tunnel direction and intersects an imaginary plane 187 containing the predetermined positions, are depicted respectively X o and Y o . Z o depicts the distance between the abovementioned reference point and plane. The distance between the geometric axes of the cross shaft 11 and the cross shaft 18 is depicted L5. L8 depicts the distance between the geometric axis of the cross shaft 18 and the centre line of the drill steel 22. The distance between the geometric axis of the cross shaft 18 and the drill bit 24 is depicted L10. In FIG. 2, the distance between the geometric axes of the shaft 16 and the cross shaft 11 is depicted L4. In the same figure, L7 depicts the distance between the centre line of the drill boom 10, which line intersects the origin O, and the centre line of the drill steel 22. By the abovementioned definitions, the coordinates of the drill bit 24 are as follows: X - X.sub.o = L4 sin (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) + L5 cos α.sub.y sin (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) + L7 cos (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) + L8 sin (α.sub.y + α.sub.s) sin (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) - L10 [cos α.sub.k cos (α.sub.y + α.sub.s) sin (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) - sin α.sub.k cos (α.sub.x + α.sub.o)] Y - Y.sub.o = L5 sin α.sub.y + L8 cos (α.sub.y + α.sub.s) + L10 cos α.sub.k sin (α.sub.y + α.sub.s) Z - Z.sub.o = L4 cos (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) + L5 cos α.sub.y cos (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) - L7 sin (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) - L8 sin (α.sub.y + α.sub.s) cos (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) + L10 [cos α.sub.k cos (α.sub.y + α.sub.s) cos (α.sub.x + α.sub.o) + sin α.sub.k sin (α.sub.x + α.sub.o)] In the above terms, α o depicts an angle in the XZ-plane for the drill boom 10 with respect to a given reference angle. The direction of the drill steel 22 and thus also the direction of the drill bit 24 are defined as follows: K = α.sub.o + α.sub.x + α.sub.k S = α.sub.y + α.sub.s The angle S depicts the direction of the drill steel 22 in a plane which traverses the centre line of the drill steel 22 and which is perpendicular to the shaft 18. K depicts the direction of the drill steel 22 in a plane which also traverses the centre line of the drill steel 22 and is perpendicular to said firstmentioned plane. The angles α x , α y , α k and α s , respectively, are measured by connecting an angle sensing means, preferably a synchro, to respective swing shaft. The distance L10 is divided into two components, a fixed one L9 which depicts the distance when the feed displacing hydraulic cylinder 48 is entirely contracted, and a variable one, constant .α z , which depicts the extension of the hydraulic cylinder 48. For measuring the component constant .α z , a rack member is mounted on the feed bar 20. The rack member cooperates with a gear wheel, which is mounted on the feed holder 19. The turning of said gear wheel is transferred to a synchro, whereby also the distance L10 is represented as an angle. In FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, a block diagram illustrates how the positioning of the drill boom shown in FIGS. 1, 2 is carried out. Synchros 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33 are in known manner provided with two unmovable windings, which are perpendicular to one another and one turnable winding. The turning of the turnable winding corresponds to the turning of the shaft connected thereto. The unmovable windings are energized with two sine-wave, 90° dephased, voltages, which are generated in oscillators 34, 35 and transmitted via leads 38, 39, 40 and power amplifiers 36, 37. When turning the shaft of a synchro, a sine-wave voltage having a constant amplitude is generated over the turnable winding. This sine-wave voltage is dephased with respect to the voltages generated in the oscillators 34, 35 such that the phase displacement is proportional to the turning angle. The oscillators 34, 35 are controlled in respect to frequency and phase angle from a generator 42 via a frequency divider 41. The output signals from the synchros are transmitted to signal converters 43, 44, 45, 46, 47 in which the signals are converted to pulse duration signals having the same frequency as the sine-wave signal but a pulse duration, which is proportional to the respective angle. A high frequency is superposed the pulse duration signals so that a high-frequent pulse train is obtained having a number of pulses which is proportional to respective angle. These pulse trains appear in a frequency which corresponds to the sine-wave voltage originally transmitted to the synchros. In a preferred embodiment, all synchros are fed with 400 Hz. The high frequency transmitted to the converters, has a frequency of about 400. 2.π.2 11 , i.e. about 5.1 MHz, which frequency is doubled in the converters. This means that 2π . 2 12 pulses correspond to the turning angle of one revolution, i.e. 2 12 = 4096 pulses per radian. As regards the synchro 29 and the converter 43, the high frequency is given a value such that α Z gets the same scale constant as the other lengths, L4, L5, L7, L8 and L9. Said frequency value is obtained by means of a binary-rate-multiplier which transforms a frequency from the generator 42 to a frequency which is suitable for the scale factor. L10 is obtained in binary form on the output of a counter 180 as the sum of L9 and the feed displacement corresponding to α Z . Signals of this type, i.e. signals where the number of pulses in a given time interval convey information of a particular measure, are here called rate-signals. The pulses can be spaced equally or unequally within the interval or a part thereof. The time interval must be so long that the pulses within two consecutive intervals will be refound in the same order and number when the information is unchanged. If the pulses are spaced equally within the whole interval they can be spoken of as a pulse frequency. Separate leads from the converters 43, 44, 45, 46, 47 are given signals indicating whether the angles are positive or negative with respect to the reference direction. Units 86 and 87 form the angular sums required in the positioning equations, viz.α x + α o and α y + α s . α o , which is the angle of the boom bracket 12 relative to the Z-axis in the XZ-plane, is measured when the drill rig has taken up its position and is then set on a thumb wheel switch 181. The angular sum unit 87 comprises a special converter for converting the angle from the thumb wheel switch 181 from degrees to radians. The angular sum from the two units 86 and 87 is obtained as a pulse-rate-signal having 4096 pulses per radian in analogous manner as the signal from the converters 43, 44, 45, 46, 47. In the above terms of the coordinates, sinus and cosinus of different angles are included. In order to get these values, the signals which represent the respective angles are transmitted to sin-cos-converters 82, 83, 84, 85. These converters give on its two outputs sinus and cosinus respectively of the angles and the angular sums in binary form and with 12 bit accuracy. Sinus 90°, thus, is represented by 2 12 . In order to get signals representing the lengths L4, L5, L7, L8, L10, and signals representing sinus and cosinus of the angles α o , α x , α y , α k , α s , which signals can be added and multiplied, there are binary-rate-multipliers 55-81 in the control diagram. The binary-rate-multipliers are designed such that if a rate signal is fed to the one input and a binary number to the other input there is obtained another rate-signal on its output representing the product of the two input measures. There is the following relation: r.sub.out = (r.sub.in × B.sub.in /4096) where r out = output rate-signal r in = input rate-signal B in = input binary number 4096 = 2 12 = maximum allowed input binary number Consequently, r out is always less than r in . The values of respectively L4, L5, L7, L8 and L9 corresponding to the dimensions of the drill rig are represented as binary numbers and are illustrated by 49, 50, 51, 52 and 53, respectively. Units 88, 89, 90, 91, 92 for handling signals have inputs for rate-signals with sign transmitted from the binary-rate-multiplicators (the sign-leads are not shown), inputs for signals 123, 126, 135, 132, 129 representing set values of the measures X, Y, Z, K and S and inputs for administering the function of the unit. The rate-signals represent the instantaneous value of the coordinates X, Y, Z and the angles K and S. The ratesignals fed to one of these units are added with their signs and are compared with a signal from a data processing computer 93, the latter signal being transformed to a rate-signal and representing the set value. The difference is transformed to a pulse duration signal having a sign signal for X, Y, Z, S, K, respectively, which pulse duration signal is fed to leads 112-121. In pulse-analogue- converters 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, these pulse duration signals are converted to an analogue voltage. The proportionality factor can be set by means of a binary signal from leads 124, 127, 136, 133, 130. Stabilizing nets being built-in optimize the dynamic characteristics of the different channels. The signals treated in the above manner are then transmitted to control magnet amplifiers 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, wherein they are amplified and adapted to control magnets 170, 171, 172, 173, 174. The control magnets actuate mechanically control valves 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, which give an oil flow being proportional to the input signal to the control magnet amplifiers. The speed of the hydraulic cylinders 15, 28, 48, 25, 14, thus, becomes proportional to the input signal to the control magnet amplifiers 165, 166, 167, 168, 169. In the following, a positioning of a drill bit to a predetermined position is described. In the computer 93 are stored coordinates of the positions, where the drill bit is to be moved, and the desired drilling direction in these positions. The programmed positions are in an imaginary plane, which lies in front of the rock surface. The set value of the X-coordinate of the first position is transmitted to the counter unit 88 from the output 122 of the computer 93 via the lead 123. The product of L4 and sin (α x + α o ), the respective values taken from the multipliers 56 and 57 respectively, is transmitted via the lead 94 to the unit 88. Values of respectively L5, cos α y and sin (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 58, 59 and 60 respectively. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 88 via the lead 95. Values of L7 and cos (α x × α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 61 and 62. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 88 via the lead 96. The values of L8, sin (α y + α s ) and sin (α x + α o ) are from the multipliers 63, 64 and 65. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 88 via the lead 97. The values of L10, cos α k , cos (α y + α s ) and sin (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 66, 67, 68 and 69. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 88 via the lead 98. The values of L10, sin α k and cos (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 70, 71 and 72. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 88 via the lead 99. The values fed into the unit 88 via the leads 94-99 are summed and the sum is the instantaneous actual X-coordinate value of the drill bit. This actual value is compared with the set value from the lead 123. Any differences between the actual value and the set value cause correction signals to be fed to pulse-analogue-converter 160 via leads 112, 113. The lead 112 indicates the duration of the correction signal while the lead 113 indicates the sign of the correction signal, i.e. in which direction the hydraulic cylinder in question, in this case the swing cylinder 15, has to be activated. The signal from the pulse-analogue-converter 160 is amplified in the amplifier 165, whereupon the signal actuates the control magnet 170. The control magnet adjusts a valve 175. Due to in which direction the valve 175 is adjusted hydraulic fluid is supplied to either of the two chambers of the hydraulic cylinder 15. The drill boom 10 is then swung. The set value of the Y-coordinate of the first position is transmitted to the counter unit 92 from the output 128 of the computer 93 via the lead 129. The product of the values of respectively L5 and sin α y obtained from the multipliers 58 and 78 respectively is transmitted to the unit 92 via the lead 109. The values of L8 and cos (α y + α s ) are obtained from the multipliers 63 and 79. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 92 via the lead 110. The values of L10, cos α k and sin (α y +α s ) are obtained from respectively the multipliers 66, 67 and 80. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 92 via the lead 111. The values fed into the unit 92 via the leads 109-111 are summed and the sum represents the instantaneous actual Y-coordinate value of the drill bit. This actual value is compared with the set value fed via the lead 129. Any differences between the actual value and the set value cause a correction signal, which is fed to the pulse-analogue- converter 164 via leads 120 and 121 respectively for respectively the duration and the sign of the signal. The signal is amplified in the amplifier 169 and is transmitted to the magnet 174. The magnet adjusts the valve 179, which controls the elevating cylinder 14. The drill boom 10 is then elevated or lowered. The set value of the Z-coordinate of the first position is transmitted to the counter unit 90 from the output 134 of the computer 93 via the lead 135. The product of the values of L4 and cos (α x + α o ) from the multipliers 56 and 81 respectively is fed to the unit 90 via the lead 102. The values of L5 cos α y and cos (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 58, 59 and 73. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 90 via the lead 103. The values of L7 and sin (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 61 and 74. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 90 via the lead 104. The values of L8, sin (α y + α s ) and cos (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 63, 64 and 75. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 90 via the lead 105. The values of L10, cos α k , cos (α y + α s ) and cos (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 66, 67, 68 and 76. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 90 via the lead 106. The values of L10, sin α k and sin (α x + α o ) are obtained from the multipliers 70, 71 and 77. The product of these values is transmitted to the unit 90 via the lead 107. The values fed into the unit 90 via the leads 102 - 107 are summed and the sum is the instantaneous actual value of the Z-coordinate of the drill bit. This actual value is compared with the set value fed via the lead 135. Any differences between the actual value and the set value cause a correction signal, which is transmitted to the pulse-analogue-converter 162 via leads 116 and 117 respectively for respectively the duration and the sign of the signal. The signal is amplified in the amplifier 167 and is then fed to the magnet 172. The magnet adjusts the valve 177, which controls the feed displacing cylinder 48. The feed bar 20 is then displaced. The set value of the angle K of the first drill hole is transmitted to the counter unit 89 from the output 125 of the computer 93 via the lead 126. The sum of α x , and α o is transmitted to the unit 93 via the lead 100. α k is fed into the unit 93 via the lead 101. α x and α o and α k are summed in the unit 89 and the sum is the instantaneous actual value of the angle K. This actual value is compared with the set value transmitted via the lead 126. Any differences between the actual value and the set value cause a correction signal, which is transmitted to the pulse-analogue-converter 161 via leads 114 and 115 for the duration and sign of the signal. The signal is amplified in the amplifier 166, whereupon it is transmitted to the magnet 171. The magnet adjusts the valve 176, which controls the swing cylinder 28. The feed bar 20 is then swung. The set value of the angle S of the first drill hole is transmitted to the counter unit 91 from the output 131 of the computer 93 via the lead 132. (α y + α s ) is fed into the unit 91 via the lead 108. This value is the instantaneous actual value of the angle S. This actual value is compared with the set value transmitted via the lead 132. Any differences between the actual value and the set value cause a correction signal, which is fed to the pulse-analogue-converter 163 via the leads 118 and 119 for respectively the duration and the sign of the signal. The signal is amplified in the amplifier 168, and is then led to the magnet 173. The magnet adjusts the valve 178, which controls the tilt cylinder 25. The feed bar 20 is then tilted. Between each of the leads 112-121 respectively a summation unit 147 is connected to a lead respectively 137-146. A lead 148 is connected between the summation unit 147 and the computer 93. The function of the summation unit 147 is to give order to the computer 93 when values of the next programmed point have to be taken out. Before this order is given, the values of X, Y, Z, K and S of the previous points have to be reached for a prescribed time. The condition for obtaining a signal from the summation unit 147 through the lead 148 is that all leads 137-146 have been without signal for a prescribed time. When the summation unit 147 has settled that the positioning is finished, the computer 93 gives order to lock the positioning, open the supply of flushing fluid, make a collaring and start the feed motor and rock drilling machine. The drill depth is measured by counting the number of pulses from a toothed wheel on the feed screw. A separate logical system, not shown in the block diagram, compares the actual drill depth with a drill depth programmed into the computer 93 via a lead 187. When similarity between measured and programmed drill depth is achieved, the drilling is stopped by reversing the feed motor. Due to the irregularities of the rock surface, the Z-coordinates of the predetermined positions are defined such that they are in an imaginary plane, which is spaced from the rock surface, whereby safeguarding that the drill bit does not get stuck during movement from one position to another. When the summation unit 147 has stated that the positioning in the imaginary plane is finished, the computer 93 gives order to lock the drill boom and the feed bar against a turning about their axes, after a prescribed time delay displace the feed bar to rest against the rock, open the supply of flushing fluid, make a collaring and start the feed motor and the rock drilling machine. The displacement of the feed bar as well as the collaring can of course alternatively be carried out manually. The desired values of the coordinates X, Y, and Z and the angles K, S and α are programmed starting from a given system of coordintes. Due to the face of country etc, it is not always possible to place the drill rig correctly in this system. In occurring cases, the given system of coordinates has to be transformed to one which coincides with the position in question of the drill rig. For this transformation there are correction units 181-186. The correction factors for respectively X, Y, Z, K and α are set by means of the respective unit or changer 181-186. The correction factors X o , Y o , Z o , K o , S o and α o are defined by directly measuring the position and inclination of the swing shaft 16 and the boom bracket 12 with respect to the geodetically determined line of the tunnel extension.
A working implement such as a rock drilling apparatus is automatically positioned to predetermined positions and/or directions. Particularly, a drill bit is moved to an imaginary plane spaced from the surface to be worked upon completion of a drill hole by programming the predetermined positions such that they are in said imaginary plane. The actual values of the position and/or direction of the working implement may be adjusted simultaneously toward set values corresponding to the predetermined position and/or direction.
4
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a process for producing octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane, which is useful as an intermediate for functional materials. This compound is particularly useful as a raw material for a heat-resistant parylene polymer film. There are several processes for producing octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane. J. Org. Chem. 1970, 35, 20-22 discloses a process for producing this target compound with a yield of 9-28% by a pyrolytic dimerization of a compound represented by the general formula (1) at a temperature of 600-800° C., where X is chlorine, bromine or SO 2 R′ where R′ is an alkyl group. U.S. Pat. No. 5,210,341 discloses a process for producing the target compound with a yield of 32% by a reductive dimerization of the compound represented by the general formula (1) where X is bromine, by TiCl 4 —LiAlH 4 at 70° C. There is another process for producing the target compound by a reductive dimerization of the compound represented by the general formula (1) wherein X is bromine, by a combination of Bu 3 SnSiMe 3 and CsF (see J. Org. Chem., 1997, 62, 7500-7502 and J. Org. Chem., 1999, 64, 9137-9143). WO 98/24743 discloses a process for producing 1,4bis(difluoromethyl)benzene by the steps of (a) chlorinating paraxylene to obtain 1,4-bis(dichloromethyl)benzene and (b) fluorinating this compound by a metal fluoride into the target product. In this publication, it is proposed that 1,4-bis(dichloromethiyl)benzene is fluorinated with CsF or KF under a slurry condition at a temperature of 180° C. or higher. Chemical Abstract, Vol. 124, 116848 discloses a process for producing 1,4-bis(trifluoroemthyl)benzene by fluorinating 1,4-bis(dibromomethyl)benzene by antimony trifluoride in the absence of solvent under a condition of 100-150° C. and 20-100 mmHg. J. Am. Chem., Soc., 82, 543 (1960) discloses a fluorination of terephthalaldehyde by sulfur tetrafluoride at 150° C. French Patent 2109416 discloses a fluorination of terephthalaldehyde by molybdenum fluoride and boron trifluoride. It is disclosed in J. Chem. Soc., Chem. Commun., 1993, 678 that 1-trifluoromethyl-4-difluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene can be synthesized by a silylmethylation of bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene through a photo-inducing reaction using tetramethyldisilane. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a process for producing octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane with a high yield, using La raw material that is easily available. According to the present invention, there is provided a process for producing octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane. This process comprises: reacting 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene with a halogenated silane represented by the general formula (1), in the presence of a low valence metal, thereby obtaining a compound represented by the general formula (2); and conducting in the presence of a fluoride ion a dimerization of said compound into said octafluoro [2, 2]p aracyclophane, R 3 SiX  (1) where each R is independently an alkyl group or aryl group, and X is a halogen atom, where R is defined as above. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The inventors have eager examined a dimerization of 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene by removing fluorine atom from this compound. In this examination, we unexpectedly found that it is possible to easily break C-F bond, which is generally difficult to be broken due to its large bonding energy, of 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene by setting a special intermediate (as a precursor of octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane), that is, the compound represented by the general formula (2), and that it is possible to produce octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane by a dimerization of this compound. Hereinafter, the reaction of 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene with the halogenated silane may be referred to as the first step, and the dimerization may be referred to as the second step. The halogenated silane used in the first step is not particularly limited. In the general formula (1) representing the halogenated silane, the alkyl group (R) may be a lower alkyl group (e.g., methyl group, ethyl group, propyi group, or isopropyl group), and the aryl group (R) may be phenyl group or tolyl group. Furthermore, X may be chlorine, bromine or. iodine. Preferable examples of the halogenated silane are chlorotrimethylsilane, chlorotriethylsilane, chlorophenyldimethylsilane, chlorodiphenylmethylsilane, and bromotriethylsilane. Of these, chlorotrimethylsilane is the most preferable, since it is easily available. The amount of the halogenated silane to be used in the first step may be 1 mole or greater (from the viewpoint of stoichiometry), preferably about 1-50 moles, more preferably about 1-10 moles, per mole of 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene. It is optional to use a solvent in the first step, as long as the solvent is inert under reaction conditions of the first step. Examples of such solvent are aliphatic hydrocarbons (e.g., pentane, hexane and heptane), aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g., benzene, toluene and xylene), nitrites (e.g., acetonitrile, propionitrile, phenylacetonitrile, isobutyronitrile, and benzonitrile), acid amides (e.g., N,N-dimethylformamide, N,N-dimethylacetoamide, methylformamide, formamide, hexamethylphosphoric acid, and hexamethyl phosphoric acid triamide), and lower ethers (e.g., tetrahydrofuran, 1,2-dimethoxyethane, diglyme, triglyme, diethyl ether, 1,2-epoxyethane, 1,4-dioxane, dibutyl ether, t-butyl methyl ether, and substituted tetrahydrofuran). Of these, N,N-dimethylformamide and tetrahydrofuran are preferable. It is optional to use a mixture of at least two of these solvents. The solvent may be in an amount of about 1-100 parts by weight, preferably 1-20 parts by weight, per one part by weight of the 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene. It is preferable to remove water as much as possible from the solvent to be used in the first and second steps. It is, however, not necessary to remove water completely. The amount of water generally contained in a commercially available solvent is acceptable in the first and second steps. Therefore, it is possible to directly use a commercially available solvent in the invention, without removing water. The low valence metal used in the first step is not particularly limited. In this specification, the low valence metal can be defined as being an element that belongs to typical elements and as being a metal that does not have an oxidation number of 5 or greater under a normal condition. It may be a metal element, for example, selected from magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, cadmium, tin, titanium, and sodium. Furthermore, the low valence metal may be in the form of a metal alloy containing at least one of these metal elements as a major component. Examples of such metal alloy ate an alloy of zinc and copper, Raney nickel, an alloy of silver and zinc, and an alloy of copper and magnesium. Furthermore, metal ion in a low oxidation state may also be applicable, such as titanium trichloride, samarium diiodide, and chromium dichloride. Furthermore, such metal ion in a low oxidation state may be in the form of a metal complex such as sodium naphthalenide, sodium benzophenon ketyl complex, or tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium. Still furthermore, the low valence metal may be in the form of a mixture of the metal element or the metal alloy and the metal compound or the metal complex. Examples of such mixture are a mixture of titanium tetrachloride and metallic zinc, a mixture of titanocene dichloride and zinc, a mixture of samarium diiodide and samarium, and a mixture of samarium diiodide and magnesium. Of these, it is preferable to use magnesium or a mixture containing magnesium. When the low valence metal is used in the form of a metal element (metallic form), its shape is not particularly limited. In fact, it may be in the form of powder, granules, aggregates, porous solid, chips or rod. For example, it is possible to directly use a magnesium having a known shape generally used for Grignard reaction. The amount of the low valence metal may be about 1-50 moles, preferably about 1-10 moles, per mole of the 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene. The reaction temperature of the first step may be a temperature of −78 to 120° C. The reaction time may be varied depending on the reagents, and may be adjusted to about 10 minutes to about 20 hours. The reaction pressure of the first step may be in the vicinity of normal pressure. The other reaction conditions of the first step may be the same as those of a reaction using a conventional organic magnesium compound. In the first step, it is optional to use various reaction accelerations generally used in Grignard reaction, in order to accelerate the reaction. For example, it is optional to add to the reaction system a halogen (e.g., bromine or iodine), Grignard's reagent, an organic halide (e.g., ethyl bromide, methyl iodide, methylene diiodide, ethyl iodide, or β -bromoethyl ether), or ethyl orthosilicate. Furthermore, it is optional to conduct stirring or ultrasonic agitation as the reaction acceleration. Each reaction of the first and second steps does not. depend on pressure. Thus, when the reaction is conducted under a pressurized condition, the pressure may be 1.0 MPa or lower. The reaction may be conducted under an atmosphere of air. It is, however, preferable to conduct the reaction under an atmosphere of inert gas (e.g., nitrogen, argon or helium). It is preferable to subject a crude product of the first step, which contains the target compound represented by the general formula (2), to purification, depending on the use of this target compound. This purification is not particularly limited, and may be conducted by a conventional extraction. or column chromatography. As stated above, the second step is conducted by a dimerization of the compound (represented by the general formula (2)) into octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane, in the presence of a fluoride ion. This presence of a fluoride ion can be achieved by adding a fluoride. This addition of fluoride may be replaced with the addition of a compound that accelerates the release of fluorine atom from the compound represented by the general formula (2). Examples of the fluoride are alkali metal fluorides (e.g., sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, and cesium fluoride), alkali earth metal fluorides (e.g., barium fluoride and magnesium fluoride ), fluorides of other metals (e.g., copper fluoride and chromium fluoride), and ammonium fluoride. Examples of the fluorine-release-accelerating compound are quaternary ammonium salts in which an alkyl or aryl group is bonded to N, such as triethylbenzylammonium chloride, tetramethylammonium chloride, triethylbenzylammonium bromide, trioctylmethylammonium chloride, tributylbenzylammonium chloride, trimethylbenzylammonium chloride, N-laurylpyridinium chloride, n-butylammonium hydroxide, tetramethylammonium hydroxide, trimethyjbenzylammonium hydroxide, trimethylphenylammonium bromide, tetramethylammonium bromide, tetraethylammonium bromide, tetra-n-butylammonium bromide, tetrabutylammonium hydrosulfate, N-benzylpicolinium chloride, tetramethylammonium iodide, and tetra-n-butylammonium iodide. The anion of the fluorine-release-accelerating compound is not particularly limited. The amount of the fluoride or the fluorine-release-accelerating compound may be a catalytic amount. In fact, it may be 0.0001. to 1 mole, preferably 0.001 to 0.5 moles, per mole of the 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene. Furthermore, it is optional to use a crown ether in order to accelerate the second step. The amount of this crown ether may be about 0.001 to 10 moles, preferably 0.01 to 1 mole, per mole of the fluoride. It is preferable to use a solvent in the second step. This solvent is preferably a nonpolar solvent or a solvent that is low in polarity. In fact, Examples of the solvent are aromatic hydrocarbons, condensed-ring aromatic compounds, polycyclic aromatic compounds, and aliphatic hydrocarbons. Of these solvents, aromatic hydrocarbons are preferable. Concrete examples of the aromatic hydrocarbons are toluene, xylene, ethylbenzene, cumene, mesitylene, durene, and tetralin). Of these, mesitylene, o-xylene, m-xylene, and p-xylene are particularly preferable. It is optional to use a mixture of aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g., SOLVES SO (trade name)). Examples of the condensed-ring aromatic compounds and polycyclic aromatic compounds are mono-, di- and tri-methylnaphthalenes, mono-, di- and tri-isopropylnaphthalene, ethyl diphenyl, and dibenzyltoluene. Examples of the aliphatic hydrocarbons are heptane and octane. It is optional to use a mixture of at least two of the above-mentioned solvents. When the second step is conducted under a normal pressure, it is preferable to use a solvent having a high boiling point. So that, these exemplary solvents are preferably those having a boiling point of higher than 100° C. more preferably 120-300° C. It is, however, possible to use a lower-boiling-point solvent in the reaction under a pressurized condition. The reaction temperature of the second step may be about 100-300° C., preferably about 130-250° C. If it is lower than about 100° C., desilylated compounds, for example, a compound represented by the following formula may be produced. With this, the yield of octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane may be lowered. The second step can be conducted by charging a reaction vessel with 1-trifluoromethyl-4-cdifluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene, a solvent, a fluoride and the like and then by maintaining the reaction vessel at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time. During the reaction, it is optional to conduct stirring and reflux of the contents of the reaction vessel. After the reaction, a solid matter can be collected by removing the catalyst and then by distilling the solvent off or by filtration. This solid matter can be purified by a conventional method. For example, it may be recrystallization, sublimation or column chromatography. The following nonlimitative examples are illustrative of the present invention. EXAMPLE 1 At first, 288 mg (12 mmol) of magnesium powder and 2.6 g (24 mmol) of chlorotrimethylsilane were added to 20 ml of N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). Then, 1.28 g (6 mmol) of 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene were dropped to the resulting mixture, followed by stirring for 30 minutes under an argon atmosphere at room temperature. Then, ammonium chloride was added, thereby terminating the reaction. Then, the reaction liquid was extracted with hexane, and the resulting extract (hexane solution) was dried with magnesium sulfate. Then, it was found by 19 FNMR for analyzing fluorine that the dried extract contained 64% of 1-trifluoromethyl-4-difluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene and 5% of 1-trifluoromethyl-4-fluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene. The dried extract was subjected to a Kugelrohr distillation, thereby obtaining 961 mg of 1-trifluoromethyl-4-difluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene (yield: 56%) in the form of a colorless oil-like substance. The analytical data of this product are as follows. Boiling point: 95° C. (30 mmHg); 1 HNMR (200 MHz, CDCl 3 ): δ=0.15 (S, 9H), 7.46 (d, J=8.6Hz, 2H), 7.68 (d, J=8.6Hz, 2H); 19 FNMR (188 MHz, CDCl 3 , internal standard: C 6 F 6 ): δ=48.7(s, 2F), 99.0 (s, 3F); Elemental analysis (C 10 H 13 F 3 Si): calculated value (C: 79.27, H: 9.15); measured value (C: 79.53, H: 9.14). EXAMPLES 2 AND 3 In each of these examples, Example 1 was repeated except that the reaction conditions were modified as shown in Table 1. TABLE 1 Reaction Reaction a* Mg Temp. Time Product Yield (%) (mmol) (mmol) (° C.) (hr) b* c* Ex. 1 6.0 12.0 Room Temp. 0.5 64 5 Ex. 2 0.6 0.66 Room Temp. 3 35 7 Ex. 3 0.6 1.20 Room Temp. 1 58 15 *a: 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene; *b: 1-trifluoromethyl-4-difluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene; *c: 1-trifluoromethyl-4-fluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene, as shown by the following formulas. EXAMPLE 4 At first, 107 mg (0.4 mmol) of 1-trifluoromethyl-4- difluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzeene and 6.1 mg (0.04 mmol) of cesium fluoride were added to 1.0 ml of mesitylene. Then, the reaction was conducted for 24 hr for 160° C. After the reaction, the reaction liquid was analyzed by 19 FNMR for fluorine. With this, the yield of octafluor[2,2]paracyclophane was found to be 53%. The reaction liquid was filtered, followed by recrystallization from chloroform at room temperature, thereby obtaining 30 mg of a colorless octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane (yield: 48%). The analytical data of this target product were as follows. Melting point: 261° C.; 1 HNMR (200 MHz, CDCl 3 )): δ=7.16 (s, 8H); 19 FNMR (188 MHz, CDCl 3 , internal standard: C 3 F 6 ): δ=43.5(s, 8F). EXAMPLE 5 AND REFERENTIAL EXAMPLE In each of Example 5 and Referential Example, Example 4 was repeated except that the reaction conditions were modified as shown in Table 2. In Referential Example, 1-trifluoromethyl-4-difluoromethylbenzene was formed. TABLE 2 Reaction b* Temp. Reaction Product Yield (%) (mmol) Solvent (° C.) Time (hr) d* Ex. 4 0.4 mesitylene 160 24 53 Ex. 5 0.4 o-xylene 140 24 21 Ref. Ex. 0.4 toluene 100 24 a trace amount *b: 1-trifluoromethyl-4-difluorotrimethylsilylmethylbenzene; and *d: octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane, as shown in the following formulas. The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2000-35548 filed on Feb. 14, 2000, including specification, claims and summary, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
A process for producing an octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane includes the steps of (a) reacting 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene with a halogenated silane represented by the general formula (1), in the presence of a low valence metal, thereby obtaining a novel compound (precursor) represented by the general formula (2); and (b) conducting in the presence of a fluoride ion a dimerization of the compound into the octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane, R 3 SiX  (1) where each R is independently an alkyl group or aryl group, and X is a halogen atom, where R is defined as above. It is possible to produce octafluoro[2,2]paracyclophane with a high yield from 1,4-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene, which is easily available, via the above compound.
2
This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/119,048 filed Feb. 8, 1999. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention pertains to fuel delivery systems, and more particularly to systems for delivering gaseous fuel to internal combustion engines. 2. Description of the Prior Art Various types of fuel delivery systems have been developed for internal combustion engines. For example, carburetors have been in use for many years and are now highly refined. Similarly, direct fuel injection systems are well known and in widespread use. A common characteristic of prior fuel delivery systems is that the fuel is vaporized at locations either within or very close to the combustion cylinders. In carburetor systems, the carburetor is invariably located adjacent the engine intake manifold. In direct injection systems, the fuel is not vaporized until it is actually inside the combustion cylinder. In both types of systems, therefore, a pump is required to deliver liquid fuel from a storage tank to the engine. Despite their general suitability for automotive applications, both carburetor and direct injection systems have certain disadvantages. Both types of systems require high accuracy, and therefore expensive, components for proper operation. Especially with direct injection systems, those components include costly high pressure injector pumps. Both carburetor and direct injection systems are highly susceptible to failure from dirt, moisture, and other contaminants, and servicing a failed system requires skill and unproductive down time. In addition, the prior systems are not able to readily change the air/fuel ratio of the vaporized fuel. Thus, notwithstanding past technological developments in automotive fuel systems, further refinements to fuel delivery is highly desirable. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present invention, a fuel vapor system is provided that more efficiently and economically delivers fuel to internal combustion engines than prior systems. This is accomplished by apparatus that includes a fuel vapor generator located remote from the engine. According to one aspect of the invention, the fuel vapor generator comprises a reservoir having an air inlet, a liquid fuel inlet, and a fuel vapor outlet. The air inlet is open to the atmosphere when the engine is operating but is closed when the engine is not in operation. The fuel inlet is closed to the atmosphere when the engine is in operation. The fuel vapor outlet is connected by a suitable fuel vapor passage to the intake manifold of the engine. A liquid fuel line with a small fuel pump leads from the reservoir to an auxiliary fuel inlet in the fuel vapor passage. There is also an auxiliary air inlet in the fuel vapor passage. Preferably, the auxiliary air inlet is upstream of the auxiliary fuel inlet. Submerged in the fuel near the bottom of the reservoir is a bubble pan. The bubble pan has a large number of very small holes in it. The bubble pan is connected to the air inlet by a tube. A number of sensors are present in the fuel vapor passage between the reservoir and the engine. A first sensor is located upstream of the auxiliary air inlet. A second sensor is located downstream of the auxiliary air inlet and the auxiliary fuel inlet. A third sensor is located in the fuel vapor passage upstream of the engine manifold. Additional sensors may be used in the engine and engine manifold. Another sensor monitors atmospheric conditions. All the sensors are connected to a computer. When the engine is started, the engine produces a vacuum in the fuel vapor passage and the reservoir. The air inlet to the reservoir opens to allow atmospheric air to flow to the bubble pan. The atmospheric air is diffused into myriad bubbles that rise through the fuel in the reservoir. Some fuel vaporizes in the air bubbles such that a fuel vapor is created in a space in the reservoir above the fuel. The fuel vapor is drawn from the reservoir into the fuel vapor passage and toward the engine. Each sensor measures the air/fuel ratio of the fuel vapor. The measured air/fuel ratio is compared in the computer to a desired ratio. If the air/fuel ratio is too rich at the first sensor, the computer controls an auxiliary air inlet valve to admit air into the fuel vapor passage. The computer controls the auxiliary air inlet valve to open the amount that produces the desired ratio as measured by the second sensor. If the air/fuel ratio is too lean at the first sensor, the auxiliary air inlet valve remains closed. Instead, the computer controls the fuel pump to inject fuel from the reservoir into the fuel vapor passage at the auxiliary fuel inlet and thus increase the ratio to the desired amount as measured by the second sensor. After the fuel vapor is thoroughly mixed, its ratio is measured a final time before it enters the engine manifold. The computer determines the desired air/fuel ratio, which changes almost continuously depending on atmospheric conditions and engine speed, load, or temperature. The fuel vapor system delivers a fuel supply to the engine that at all times is optimum for the particular prevailing conditions. If desired, a blower can be used to positively pump air through the bubble pan and fuel vapor passage to the engine. Also, exhaust gasses from the engine can be used to pre-heat the air entering the reservoir. The method and apparatus of the invention, using a bubble pan that diffuses atmospheric air into liquid fuel, thus delivers an ideal air/fuel ratio to an internal combustion engine. The sensors and computer assure that the ideal air/fuel ratio is delivered, even though the ideal ratio is constantly changing. Other advantages, benefits, and features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the fuel vapor system of the invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a modified embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Although the disclosure hereof is detailed and exact to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the physical embodiments herein disclosed merely exemplify the invention, which may be embodied in other specific structure. The scope of the invention is defined in the claims appended hereto. Referring to FIG. 1, a fuel vapor system 1 is illustrated that includes the present invention. The fuel vapor system 1 is particularly useful for delivering gaseous fuel to an internal combustion engine represented at reference numeral 3. The engine 3 may be any of a wide variety of engines as are used in automotive, marine, and aeronautical applications. The fuel vapor system 1 is comprised of a fuel vapor generator 4, a fuel vapor passage 7, and a control 9 that assures that a proper air/fuel ratio is supplied from the fuel vapor generator to the engine 3. Looking first at the fuel vapor generator 4, it is comprised of a reservoir 5 having a bottom wall 10, and a liquid fuel inlet 11. The fuel inlet 11 is tightly closed by a cap 13 when the engine is in operation. As shown, the reservoir is filled with liquid fuel 15 to a level 17. Submerged under the fuel 15 in the reservoir 5 is a bubble pan 19. The bubble pan 19 preferably has a size and shape that closely approximates the size and shape of the reservoir bottom wall 10. The bubble pan is formed with a very large number of small holes, not shown. A tube 21 passes through the reservoir and connects at one end 23 to the bubble pan. A second end 25 of the tube 21 is open to the atmosphere. There is a valve 27 and a filter 29 in the tube end 25. The fuel vapor passage 7 leads from the space 61 in the reservoir 5 above the fuel level 17 to the engine 3. In the fuel vapor passage are sensors 31, 33, and 35, each having the ability to measure the air/fuel ratio at its respective location. Each of the sensors 31, 33, and 35 is connected by a respective electrical line to a computer 37 of the control 9. Between the sensors 31 and 33 is an auxiliary air inlet 39 to the fuel vapor passage 7. The auxiliary air inlet 39 is open to the atmosphere through an air cleaner 41 and a valve 43. The valve 43 is operated by the computer 37. Between the auxiliary air inlet 39 and the sensor 33 is the outlet of an auxiliary fuel inlet 45. The auxiliary fuel inlet 45 is comprised of a fuel line 47 connected to the reservoir 5 below the fuel level 17. There is a filter 49 in the fuel line 47. An ejector pump 51 in the fuel line 47 is controlled by the computer. A fuel injector 53 sprays fuel inside the fuel vapor passage 7 in response to operation of the injector pump 51. There is a combination filter/mixer 55 in the fuel vapor passage 7 between the sensors 33 and 35. At the engine 3, the fuel vapor passage may divide into separate smaller passages at the intake manifold 57. In operation, the auxiliary air inlet valve 43 is closed, and the injector pump 51 is inoperative when the engine 3 is started. The valve 27 of the air inlet tube 21 is also closed at engine startup. The engine creates a vacuum at the intake manifold 57 when the engine starts. The vacuum draws fuel vapors from the space 61 in the reservoir 5 in a downstream direction 59 to the engine 3. The partial vacuum in the reservoir space 61 above the fuel level 17 causes air from the air inlet tube 21 to be drawn by means of numerous small bubbles 63 through the bubble pan 19 and through the fuel 15 to the reservoir space 61. The air movement as it is drawn from the air inlet tube 21 in the direction of arrow 65 automatically opens the valve 27. The numerous small bubbles 63 agitate the fuel 15 and cause it to evaporate into the space 61. The fuel vapors are thus continuously produced and drawn in the downstream direction 59 to the engine 3. Reference numerals 67 and 69 represent typical sensors in the engine 3 and intake manifold 57. The sensors 67 and 69 sense various instantaneous operating conditions of the engine that are affected by the air/fuel ratio of the fuel vapor. Reference numeral 71 represents a sensor that monitors atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. Other sensors, not shown, feed engine related data such as speed and gear ratio to the computer 37. Data from the sensors 67, 69, 71, and others is processed by the computer to calculate the ideal air/fuel ratio for the engine under the particular operating conditions at each moment. The ideal air/fuel ratio as calculated by the computer 37 is compared with the actual ratio leaving the reservoir 5 as measured by the sensor 31. If the actual air/fuel ratio as measured by the sensor 31 is too rich, the computer signals the auxiliary air inlet valve 43 to open. As a result, atmospheric air enters the fuel vapor passage 7 to dilute the fuel vapor. The corrected ratio is measured again by the sensor 33 for comparison with the ideal ratio from the computer. The computer operates the auxiliary air inlet valve as much as necessary until the air/fuel ratio sensed by the sensor 33 matches the ideal ratio from the computer. If the air/fuel ratio as measured by the sensor 31 is too lean compared with the ideal ratio set by the computer 37, the computer signals the fuel injection pump 51 to operate and inject liquid fuel into the fuel vapor passage 7. The rate of fuel injection is changed until the air/fuel ratio sensed by the sensor 33 matches the ratio determined by the computer. The fuel vapor passes through the filter/mixer 55, after which the air/fuel ratio is measured a final time by the sensor 35. If the sensor 35 measures any variations in the fuel vapor passage 7 downstream of the sensor 33, the computer controls the auxiliary air inlet valve 43 or the fuel injector pump 51 to make the necessary final adjustments. The fuel vapor system 1 is thus capable of changing the actual air/fuel ratio almost instantaneously to suit varying engine and atmospheric conditions. Upon engine shutdown, the air inlet valve 27 automatically closes. The computer 37 controls the auxiliary air inlet valve 43 to close. In that way, fuel vapor remains in the fuel vapor passage 7 and reservoir space 61, ready to enter the engine 3 at subsequent engine startup. It is a feature of the invention that the computer 37 can be programmed to set a desired air/fuel ratio that is the most suitable for the instantaneous operating and atmospheric conditions. For example, under certain conditions a fixed air/fuel ratio of 15/1 might be ideal. In that case, the fuel vapor system 1 will always deliver fuel to the engine 3 at a 15/1 ratio. On the other hand, for experimental or other reasons the computer can be programmed to call for any fixed or variable ratio, such as 20/1 or 30/1. In that manner, it is possible through computer programming to easily experiment to determine actual optimum ratios for all varied conditions, which change moment by moment. Evaporation of the fuel 15 in the reservoir 5 is a cooling process. To increase the efficiency of the engine 3 and the fuel vapor system 1, it may be desirable to pre-heat the air entering the air inlet tube 21. Such pre-heating is easily accomplished by having a simple heat exchanger to capture exhaust heat and preheat intake air entering the system. The preheating components are not shown. Further in accordance with the present invention, accessory equipment can easily be added to the fuel vapor system 1. Looking at FIG. 2, a fuel vapor system 73 is shown that is generally similar to the system 1 of FIG. 1. The system 73 has a blower 75 at the upstream end 25' of the air inlet tube 21'. The blower 75 produces a positive pressure in the fuel vapor passage 7', which may be desirable in some applications. The fuel vapor systems 1 and 73 of the invention have numerous advantages over conventional carburetor and direct injection systems. Some of the advantages are the fact that moisture in either the fuel 15 or inside the reservoir 5 do not affect the systems. Similarly, dirt and other contaminants in the fuel, bubble pan 19, or reservoir 5 does not affect the systems. The fuel tank can be located at any location in a vehicle, and it may be of any shape that enhances the safety and convenience of the particular vehicle. The ability of the systems to deliver the ideal air/fuel ratio at all times and under different operating and atmospheric conditions results in smooth running, low emissions, high power output, and high efficiency for the engine. In summary, the results and advantages of internal combustion engines can now be more fully realized. The fuel vapor system provides both an ideal air/fuel ratio to the engine as well as the ability to constantly change the air/fuel ratio in response to changing conditions. This desirable result comes from using the combined functions of the auxiliary air inlet 39 and the auxiliary fuel inlet 45. The auxiliary air inlet and the auxiliary fuel inlet cooperate with each other and with the control 9 to assure delivery of the ideal air/fuel ratio to the engine 3. The fuel vapor is created initially by the action of the air bubbles 63 passing through the reservoir fuel 15. The original air/fuel ratio in the reservoir space 61 is changed by the auxiliary air inlet and the auxiliary fuel inlet as commanded by the control. The control constantly updates the ideal air/fuel ratio by monitoring the atmosphere and engine operating conditions. Consequently, the air/fuel ratio is also changed as necessary to suit the conditions at hand. It will also be recognized that in addition to the superior performance of the fuel vapor system, its construction is such as to cost little, if any, more than traditional fuel delivery systems. Also, because the fuel vapor system is constructed of a rugged but simple design, it gives long service life with minimal maintenance. Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the invention, a fuel vapor system that fully satisfies the aims and advantages set forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
This system uses the fuel tank not only to store fuel, but as a generator to create a raw overly rich air/fuel mixture through the use of a bubble pan in the bottom of the fuel tank. This raw air/fuel mixture is then measured by sensors linked to a computer and additional air or fuel may be added by computer demand. Thus the computer can completely regulate the air/fuel mixture at all times in an ever changing way to meet climatic, engine, and load conditions. This total control of the air/fuel mixture in flexible and ever changing way should result in optimum combustion, a clean burn, extreme economy, and maximum engine power. This then is a system of computer controlled mixture.
5
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to new anionic surfactants derived from aromatic or substituted aromatic molecules and alkene sulfonic acid. More particularly this invention relates to alkyl, dialkyl and higher substituted aromatic sulfonates and methods for preparing the substituted aromatic sulfonates wherein an aryl compound is alkylated and sulfonated in one step with an alkene sulfonic acid prior to neutralizing the acid. The new surfactants and the new method to prepare them have the following advantages over existing aromatic sulfonate type surfactants: 1. Dialkyl and higher substituted aromatic sulfonates can be produced easily and in high yields. 2. Alkoxylated aromatic sulfonates can be produced easily and in high yields. 3. Mixed linear and branched substituted di-alkylaromatics can be produced easily and in high yields. 4. Alkyl benzene sulfonates can be produced without using, presently costly, conventional alkylation processes. 5. Sulfonated alkyl phenol alkoxylates can be produced without using, presently costly, conventional alkylation processes. 6. The new surfactants possess a unique structure where the sulfonate group is attached to the end of one of the alkyl chains rather than to the aromatic ring. 2. The Prior Art Alkyl benzene sulfonates have been popular surfactants for a wide variety of detergent and industrial use. Beginning just after World War II, synthetic detergents based on the reaction of propylene tetramer and benzene using AlCl 3 catalyst began to gain popularity and widespread use as laundry detergents. During the 1960s alkylbenzene sulfonates based on branched alkyl groups were found to be causing excessive foaming in sewage treatment plants and in rivers and lakes due to their slow biodegradability. Linear alkylbenzenes based on the reaction of linear olefins (U.S. Pat. No. 3,585,253 issued to Huang on Jun. 15, 1971) or linear chloroparaffins (U.S. Pat. No. 3,355,508 issued to Moulden on Nov. 28, 1967) were developed which gave acceptable detergency and were quickly biodegraded. Even more recently, the AlCl 3 process has been replaced by the HF process and the Detal Process because of environmental objections to the AlCl 3 process. Table 1 shows the typical yields obtained for detergent alkylates using HF catalyst. TABLE 1______________________________________Typical Yields of Detergent Alkylate (values in tons) Branched Alkylate Linear Alkylate______________________________________Material Charged Linear Paraffins -- 82.9 Benzene 39.9 34.3 Propylene tetramer 86.7 -- Total charged 126.6 117.3 Materials Produced Hydrogen -- 1.1 Light ends -- 3.8 HF regenerator bottoms 2.5 2.8 Light alkylate 8.0 -- Detergent alkylate 100.0 100.0 Heavy alkylate 16.1 9.6 Total produced 126.6 117.3______________________________________ Detergent use is the predominant market for alkylbenzenes and alkylbenzene sulfonates. These products; however; are also employed in considerable quantities as lubricants, coolants, industrial surfactants, dispersants, emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, demulsifiers and for many other uses. They find widespread use in many industries among which are petroleum recovery, refining, emulsion polymerization, textile dyeing, agriculture, industrial and institutional cleaning, drilling fluids, paper processing, coatings, and adhesives. Present processes are designed to optimize the yields of detergent alkylate (predominantly monoalkylbenzene). The yields of heavy alkylate (predominantly dialkylbenzene) are therefore low. These heavy alkylates however find considerable demand as oil soluble surfactants and specialty chemicals. Dialkylbenzene sulfonates (U.S. Pat. No. 4,004,638 issued to Burdyn, Chang and Cook on Jan. 25,1977, U.S. Pat. No. 4,536,301 issued to Malloy and Swedo on Aug. 20, 1985), alkyl xylene sulfonates (EP121964) and dialkyl phenol polyethoxy alkyl sulfonates (U.S. Pat. No. 4,220,204 issued to Hughes, Kudchadker and Dunn on Sep. 2, 1980) have all been used to increase the productivity of crude oil; however; the availability of these materials has been limited until this invention because of the low yields of heavy alkylates available for conversion to their corresponding sulfonates. In addition no commercially feasible process is available, until this invention, for producing di- and tri- alkylbenzenes where both linear and branched alkyl groups are present on the same benzene ring. Alkoxylated Alkyl Substituted Phenol Sulfonates have been produced and found to be useful as surfactants in numerous applications. U.S. Pat. No. 5,049,311 issued to Rasheed, Cravey, Berger and O'Brien on Sep. 17, 1991, lists many uses for these compounds including surfactants for Enhanced Oil Recovery, corrosion inhibitors, hydrotropes, foaming agents in concrete formation, surfactants for dye carriers, surfactants for fiber lubricants, surfactants for emulsion polymerization, textile detergents, foaming agents for drilling fluids, and agricultural emulsifiers. SUMMARY OF INVENTION The present invention resides in an improved process for producing novel sulfonated alkylaromatic compounds in which the aromatic group is sulfonated and alkylated in one step. The invention uses alkene sulfonic acid produced by the thin film sulfonation of an alpha-olefin to alkylate an aromatic compound such as benzene or naphthalene or a substituted aromatic compound such as alkylbenzene or alkylnaphthalene or phenol or alkoxylated phenol or alkoxylated alkylphenol to produce the corresponding sulfonic acid having an additional alkyl group derived from the alpha-olefin used during the reaction. The subsequent sulfonic acid may be used "as is" or neutralized with a variety of cations such as Na, K, Ca, Mg, Ba, NH 4 , MEA, DEA, TEA, iso-Propanol Amine,and other amines, etc. to form anionic surface active agents. Thus a benzene or a substituted aromatic compound of the formulation shown below is used. Naphthalene and any other polycyclic aromatic may be substituted for benzene with similar results and offer the additional advantage of forming di- and higher sulfonate derivatives. Where none is defined as no substitution or H in the structure below. ##STR1## R=none,alkyl (branched or linear C 1 to C 30 +) or alkoxylate (EO, PO, BO or mixtures) R'=none,alkyl(branched or linear C 1 to C 30 +) R"=none,alkyl(branched or linear C 1 to C 30 +) The benzene or substituted aromatic compound is reacted with the alkenesulfonic acid produced from the sulfonation of an alpha-olefin. The sulfonation of an alpha-olefin produces a mixture of alkene sulfonic acid and sultone whose composition is shown below. Alkene sulfonic acid is the precursor to alpha-olefin sulfonate or AOS which is a widely used surfactant with many applications for foaming, cleaning, emulsifying, and wetting. Alkene sulfonic acid is produced through the reaction of SO 3 with mono-olefinic hydrocarbon as known in the art (U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,061,617; 2,572,605 issued to Fincke on Oct. 23, 1951; 3,444,191 issued to Nelson on May 13, 1969). A process for producing high yields of alkene sulfonic acids is revealed by Weil, Stirton and Smith in JAOCS Vol. 41, October 1965, pp 873-875. CH 3 (CH 2 )nCH═CHCH 2 SO 3 H alkene sulfonic acid ##STR2## The ratio of alkene sulfonic acid to sultone is from 1:1 to about 1:4 depending on manufacturing temperature, pressure, flow rates and other parameters known to those skilled in the art. The position of the double bond of the alkene sulfonic acid and the number of carbons in the sultone ring can also vary depending on these same parameters. The alpha olefin sulfonic acid is reacted with benzene or substituted aromatic compounds at elevated temperature up to just under the decomposition temperature of the reactants and in the presence of a limited amount of water. A catalysts has been found useful to reduce the reaction temperature, the reaction times and improve yields. Useful catalysts include H 2 SO 4 , methane sulfonic acid, sulfosuccinic acid, and other strong acid catalysts generally used for alkylation. Higher temperatures, up to the decomposition temperatures of the reactants are preferred. Pressure may be necessary to reach the desired higher temperatures when using low boiling starting materials such as benzene and to prevent water from escaping during the early stages of the reaction. The alkali or alkaline metal salts of various carboxylic acids such as acetic, propionic or carbonates such as sodium or potassium carbonate may be used as catalysts if the corresponding alkali or alkaline earth sulfonate salt is desired rather than the free sulfonic acid. The reaction results in the product shown below. The free acid may be further reacted with any of a number of cations such as Na, K, NH4, Ca, Mg, Ba, Amines, etc. to form anionic surface active salts. Naphthalene and any other polycyclic aromatic may be substituted for benzene with similar results. None is defined as no substitution or H and the sum of n and m are defined as ≧5. ##STR3## R=none, alkyl(branched or linear C 1 to C 30 +) or alkoxylate (EO, PO, BO or mixtures) R'=none, alkyl(branched or linear C 1 to C 30 +) R"=none, alkyl(branched or linear C 1 to C 30 +) R'"=CH 3 (CH 2 )nCH(CH) 2 mSO 3 H Thus it is an object of the present invention to provide a one-step method of producing useful anionic surfactants which are derived from mono-substituted, and poly-substituted aromatic sulfonates. We define poly-substituted as having two or more substituents on an aromatic compound. More particularly the object of the present invention is to provide novel compounds and their methods of production wherein an aromatic compound is alkylated and sulfonated in one-step with an alkene sulfonic acid prior to neutralizing the acid. The alkene sulfonic acid may include an alkyl group which is either linear or branched, while the sulfonation leads to the formation of a product which has the functional sulfonate group attached to the alkyl group rather than the aromatic ring. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide methods of producing mono-, and poly-substituted alkylaromatic compounds where both linear and branched alkyl groups may or may not be present on the same cyclic ring. Additionally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a one-step method of producing mono-substituted, and poly-substituted alkylaromatic sulfonates whereby a alkene sulfonic acid is used to alkylate benzene, naphthalene, a monosubstituted aromatic compound, and a poly substitiuted aromatic compound, prior to neutralization of the sulfonic acid, to produce the corresponding sulfonic acid having the additional alkyl group derived from the alpha-olefin used in the sulfonation and wherein the method includes recycling water and unreacted aromatic to increase the yield of the alkylaromatic sulfonic acid. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Alpha-Olefin sulfonates are widely used as surfactants for personal care, emulsion polymerization, fire-fighting foam and a wide variety of other uses. These materials are produced by the sulfonation of an alpha-olefin using a thin film SO 3 reactor. Weil, Stirton and Smith (JOACS Vol 42, October 1965, pp 873-875) describe the reaction of hexadecene-1 and octadecene-1 with SO 3 followed by neutralization with NaOH to form the corresponding hexadecene sulfonates. The inventors note that the final product is not a single component but predominantly a mixture of two materials. These are the alkene sulfonate and the hydroxyalkane sulfonate. The hydroxyalkane sulfonate is present due to the formation of an intermediate sultone when SO 3 reacts with the alpha olefin. Neutralization with NaOH not only neutralizes the acid formed from this reaction but also opens the sultone ring forming additional alkene sulfonate and hydroxyalkane sulfonate. This results in a final product having approximately the following composition shown in Table 2: TABLE 2______________________________________Typical Products of Alpha-Olefin/SO.sub.3 /NaOH Reaction Component Approximate Amount by Weight______________________________________Alkene Sulfonate 60-70% 3-Hydroxy Sulfonate + 4-Hydroxy 30% Sulfonate Disulfonates 0-10%______________________________________ U.S. Pat. No. 3,845,114 issued to Sweeney and House on Oct. 29, 1974, teaches that the addition of limited amounts of water to AOS acid and the subsequent heating to 150° C. converts the sultone to alkene sulfonic acid and hydroxyalkane sulfonic acid. The presence of water during the ring-opening prevents dimerization of the alkene sulfonic acid. Removal of the water dehydrates the hydroxyalkane sulfonic acid back to sultone but leaves the alkene sulfonic acid intact. Repeating the process of adding limited amounts of water, heating to 150° C. and removing the water reduces the hydroxyalkane sulfonic acid content and increases the alkene sulfonic acid content. This process is shown below. ##STR4## In another early study, Ault and Eisner (JOACS Vol 39, February 1962, pp 132-133), describe the acid catalyzed addition of phenols and phenyl ethers to oleic acid. They discovered that by using an acid catalyst, such as polyphosphoric acid or methane sulfonic acid, they could produce aryl substituted stearic acids as shown below. ##STR5## U.S. Pat. No. 3,502,716 issued to Kite on Mar. 24, 1970, uses alkali or alkaline earth metal carboxylates reacted at high temperature with hydroxy sulfonic acid anhydrides to produce the corresponding alkali or alkaline earth alkene sulfonate salts. This work does demonstrate that AOS acids can be predominantly converted to salts of alkene sulfonic acids at high temperatures. U.S. Pat. No. 3,951,823 issued to Straus, Sweeney, House and Sharman on Apr. 20, 1976, teaches the reaction of AOS acid with itself and other sulfonated monomers to produce disulfonated dimers having good foaming properties for use in foam well cleanout applications. This reference specifically requires that both monomers contain a sulfonate group. This reference teaches that suitable starting materials must contain at least about 5 nonaromatic carbon atoms per molecule, a sulfonate functional group, i.e., --SO 3 --, and one of the following: (1) a carbon-carbon double bond, i.e., --CH═CH--; (2) an alkanol hydroxy group, or a sulfonate ester group of which the above sulfonate group is a component, i.e., a sultone, and the functional groups must be substituents attached to non-aromatic carbon atoms with the balance being carbon and/or hydrogen. Despite the prior innovations, and probably because di-substitute and higher substituted aromatic sulfonates were considered undesirable by-products, those skilled in the art have never attempted to use the AOS acid from the reaction of an alpha-olefin and SO 3 , before neutralization, to simultaneously alkylate and sulfonate an aryl compound such as benzene, naphthalene, or substituted benzene, and naphthalenes. The present invention forms new sulfonic acid and sulfonate derivatives by the simultaneous alkylation and sulfonation of aromatic compounds resulting in the formation of sulfonic acids and sulfonate derivatives which are useful as anionic surface active agents. The acid from the reaction of an alpha-olefin and SO 3 , and the subsequent repeated hydrolysis and dehydration with water results in the formation of alkene sulfonic acid as taught by U.S. Pat. No. 3,845,114 We have found that this strong acid can be used to alkylate aromatic compounds. An additional strong acid catalyst is beneficial to obtain useful yields of final product. In contrast to U.S. Pat. No. 3,951,823, our invention does not require that the reactants both contain at least about 5 nonaromatic carbon atoms per molecule, a sulfonate functional group, i.e., --SO 3 --, and one of the following: (1) a carbon-carbon double bond, i.e., --CH═CH--; (2) an alkanol hydroxy group, or a sulfonate ester group of which the above sulfonate group is a component, i.e., a sultone, and the functional groups must be substituents attached to non-aromatic carbon atoms with the balance being carbon and/or hydrogen. In fact the most preferred starting materials such as benzene, naphthalene, alkylbenzenes and alkylnaphthalenes do not meet any of the criteria mentioned in U.S. Pat. No. 3,951,823. EXAMPLE 1 78.0 g Benzene (1.00 Mole) was added to a five necked, 2000 ml round-bottom flask equipped with blade stirrer, thermometer, and water condenser. The two empty fittings were closed with ground glass stoppers. Table 3 list the charge for Example 1. While stirring, 240 g (0.839 Mole) of AOS acid (EW=286), having the analysis shown in Table 4 below, was added at 21° C. The temperature was gradually raised to 110° C. over a 3 hour period. A collection tube was added to recover any unreacted benzene that distilled over. The mixture was held at 110° C. until no benzene was observed distilling off. The recovered benzene was weighed and the activity of the alkylbenzene sulfonic acid was determined from the acid value and CID activity (2-phase titration) of the material remaining in the flask. 48.9 g of benzene were recovered. 266.3 g of product remained in the flask. The percent conversion was calculated as follows: 100×((78.0 g-48.9 g)/(0.8×78 g))=46.6% Activity of the product, determined by CID titration was found to be 44.4%. As is known to those skilled in the art, CID titration using Hyamine 1622 is a method of determining surfactant activity of anionic materials. The surface tension at 22° for a 0.10% solution neutralized to pH 7.0 with NaOH was found to be 42.9 mN/m and the critical micelle concentration (CMC) was found to be 0.05%. TABLE 3______________________________________Material Charge for Example 1 MATERIAL MW AMOUNT,g MOLE RATIO______________________________________Benzene 78.0 78.0 1.00 AOS Acid 286.0 240.0 0.839______________________________________ TABLE 4______________________________________Analysis of AOS Acid PROPERTY ANALYSIS______________________________________Acid Value, meq/g 1.55 CID Activity, meq/g 1.53 Average Molecular Weight, Calc 286 C14, % 65 C16% 35______________________________________ EXAMPLE 2 78.0 g Benzene (1.00 Mole) was added to a stainless steel 2 liter Parr Bomb reactor equipped with stirring, heat control, cooling cool and 300 PSI rupture disk. 28.3 g (0.100 Mole) of 70% sulfosuccinic acid catalyst which contained 8.49 g H 2 O was added. While stirring, 301 g (1.05 Mole) of AOS acid (EW=286), having the analysis shown in Table 4 above, was added at 21° C. The charge for Example 2 is listed in Table 5. The temperature was gradually raised to 150° C. and held at temperature for 4 hours. After 4 hours the temperature was lowered to below 110° C. and all the unreacted benzene and water was allowed to distill off and was collected, measured and reintroduced to the reaction flask. The flask was again heated to 150° C. and held at temperature for 4 hours. After 4 hours the temperature was lowered to below 110° C. and all the unreacted benzene and water was allowed to distill off and was collected, measured and reintroduced to the reaction flask. This process of reintroducing the water and benzene, heating to 150° C. for 4 hours, cooling to below 110° C. and distilling off the benzene and water was repeated a third time. Analysis of the final product after the third sequence of reacting and distilling indicated 92.6% conversion of the AOS acid to C14-16 alkylbenzene sulfonic acid. Activity of the product remaining in the flask, determined by CID titration, was found to be 92.5% assuming an equivalent weight of the product of 364. The surface tension at 220° for a 0.10% solution neutralized to pH 7.0 with NaOH was found to be 32.2 mN/m and the CMC was found to be 0.65%. The surface tension at the CMC was 29.5 mN/m and the Draves Wetting time for 0.10% sodium salt of the product was 4.2 seconds. These values indicate the product is an excellent surfactant. TABLE 5______________________________________Material Charge for Example 2 MATERIAL MW AMOUNT,g MOLE RATIO______________________________________Benzene 78.0 78.0 1.00 Water 18.0 8.5 0.47 Sulfosuccinic Acid 198.1 19.8 0.10 AOS Acid 286.0 301.0 1.05______________________________________ TABLE 6______________________________________Analysis of Product from Example 2 BENZENE % CON- g ACID, CID, %, AC- STEP GRAMS VERSION H.sub.2 O me/g me/g TIVITY______________________________________Before 78.0 0.0 8.5 1.83 1.09 Heating After 1st 17.9 77.0 8.5 2.84 2.10 76.4 Cycle After 2nd 10.2 86.9 8.5 3.12 2.38 86.4 Cycle After 3rd 5.8 92.6 8.5 3.28 2.54 92.5 Cycle______________________________________ EXAMPLE 3 253.5 g alkylbenzene (1.00 Mole) obtained by the HF alkylation of benzene using linear C10-C14 paraffin and having the analysis shown in Table 7 was added to a five necked, 2000 ml round-bottom flask equipped as Example 1. 10.0 g of reagent grade H 2 SO 4 was added and the stirrer was turned on. 301.0 g (1.05 Mole) AOS acid having the analysis shown in Table 4 above was added and the mixture heated to 140° C. over a two hour period. The charge for Example 3 is shown in Table 8. The mixture was held at 140° C. and periodically analyzed for increasing acid value (AV) until the value remained constant. After the AV remained constant the sample was cooled and the unreacted H 2 SO 4 was recovered by extracting the sample with an equal volume of deionized water. The amount of H 2 SO 4 recovered was 9.59 g or 95.9% of the amount added to the reaction. 529.1 g of product were recovered after extracting the H 2 SO 4 out with water. Analysis of this material gave 96.2% dialkyl benzene sulfonic acid assuming MW of 539. IR curves of the starting materials, AOS (FIG. 1) and Linear Alkylbenzene (FIG. 2) and the final product (FIG. 3) show the loss of sultone bands at 1330-1360, 940, 895 and alkene groups at 1700,1165,1040, 965 and 910 indicating the conversion of AOS acid into alkylated, alkylbenzene sulfonate. TABLE 7______________________________________Analysis of Linear AlkylbenzenePROPERTY ANALYSIS______________________________________Appearance Water white liquid Bromine Index, ppm 47 Color, Pt-Co <3 2-phenyl isomer, Wt % 15.6 Average Molecular Weight 253.5 Homologue Distribution, Wt % <C10 0.0 C10 1.6 C11 7.8 C12 + C13 82.2 C14 7.6 >C14 0.8______________________________________ TABLE 8______________________________________Material Charge for Example 3 MATERIAL MW AMOUNT,g MOLE RATIO______________________________________Linear Alkyl Benzene 253.5 253.5 1.00 Sulfuric Acid 98.0 10.0 0.10 AOS Acid 286.0 301.0 1.05______________________________________ EXAMPLE 4 229 g alkylbenzene (1.00 Mole) obtained by the HF alkylation of benzene using propylene tetramer and having the analysis shown in Table 9 was added to a five necked, 2000 ml round-bottom flask equipped as Example 1. 49.0 g of reagent grade H 2 SO 4 (0.500 Mole) was added and the stirrer was turned on. 301.0 g AOS (1.05 Mole) acid having the analysis shown in Table 4 above was added and the mixture heated to 150° C. over a two hour period. The charge for Example 4 is listed in Table 10. The mixture was held at 150° C. and periodically analyzed for increasing acid value (AV) until the value remained constant. After the AV remained constant the sample was cooled and the unreacted H 2 SO 4 was recovered by extracting the sample with an equal volume of deionized water. The amount of H 2 SO 4 recovered was 47.3 g or 96.5% of the amount added to the reaction. 528.5 g of product were recovered after extracting the H 2 SO 4 out with water. Analysis of this material gave 56.8% dialkyl benzene sulfonate assuming MW of515. TABLE 9______________________________________Analysis of Branched AlkylbenzenePROPERTY ANALYSIS______________________________________Appearance Water white liquid Bromine Index, ppm 30 Color, Pt-Co <3 Average Molecular Weight 229 Homologue Distribution, Wt % C9 3.7 C10 2.8 C11 9.3 C12 65.8 C13 15.5 C14 2.3 C15 0.6______________________________________ TABLE 10______________________________________Material Charge for Example 4 MATERIAL MW AMOUNT,g MOLE RATIO______________________________________Branched Alkylbenzene 229.0 229.0 1.00 Sulfuric Acid 98.0 49.0 0.50 AOS Acid 286.0 301.0 1.05______________________________________ EXAMPLE 5 226.0 g phenol with 3 mole EO (1.00 Mole) obtained by the alkylation of phenol using ethylene oxide was added to a five necked, 1000 ml round-bottom flask equipped as Example 1. 295.0 g C16 AOS acid (1.00 Mole) was added and the mixture heated to 150° C. over a two hour period. The charge for Example 5 is Listed in Table 11. The mixture was held at 150° C. and periodically analyzed for increasing acid value (AV) until the value remained constant. These values are shown in Table 12. After the AV remained constant the sample was cooled. 520.7 g of product were recovered. Analysis of this material gave 70.0% alkylphenolethoxy sulfonate assuming MW of 521. TABLE 11______________________________________Material Charge for Example 5 MATERIAL MW AMOUNT,g MOLE RATIO______________________________________Phenol + 3 EO 226.0 226.0 1.00 AOS Acid 295.0 295.0 1.00______________________________________ TABLE 12______________________________________Analysis of Reaction Mixture TIME @ 150° C. ACID VALUE______________________________________0 Hours 59.9 1 Hours 62.8 2 Hours 73.6 8 Hours 75.4______________________________________ EXAMPLE 6 94.0 g phenol (1.00 Mole) was added to a five necked, 1000 ml round-bottom flask equipped as Example 1. 306 g C16 AOS acid (1.04 Mole) was added and the mixture heated to 120° C. over a two hour period. The charge for Example 6 is shown in Table 13. The mixture was held at 120° C. and periodically analyzed for increasing acid value (AV) until the value remained constant (Table 14). After the AV remained constant the sample was cooled and 400 g of product were recovered. Analysis of this material gave 147.8 AV(100% alkyl phenolsulfonate assuming MW of 389). CID titration gave 2.47 meq/g or 405 EW. TABLE 13______________________________________Material Charge for Example 6 MATERIAL MW AMOUNT,g MOLE RATIO______________________________________Phenol 94.0 94.0 1.00 AOS Acid 295 306 1.04______________________________________ TABLE 14______________________________________Analysis of Reaction Mixture from Example 6 TIME @ 120° C. ACID VALUE______________________________________0 Hours 70.0 2 Hours 146 3 Hours 147 Theoretical 147______________________________________ EXAMPLE 7 Mixtures of natural and synthetic alkylarylsulfonates are used to provide ultra-low interfacial tensions (<1.0×10 -2 mN/m) when used in combination with various alkali materials such as NaOH or Na 2 CO 3 and contacted with crude oil. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,536,301 issued to Malloy and Swedo on Aug. 20, 1985 uses mixtures of mono and dialkylbenzene sulfonates to obtain ultra-low interfacial tensions against crude oil, U.S. Pat. No. 4,004,638 issued to Burdyn, Chang and Cook on Jan. 25, 1977 uses similar mixtures along with alkali agent to obtain ultra-low IFT and GB 2,232,428 filed by Muijs, Beers, and Roefs on Jun. 6, 1989, uses mixtures of dialkylbenzene alkali sulfonates and polyalkoxyphenyl-ether alkali sulfonates also to obtain low IFT values. All these references claim increased oil recovery by injection of the sulfonate mixtures into subterranean crude oil reservoirs. The utility of the products of the invention as surfactants for Alkaline Surfactant Polymer Flooding was evaluated in this example using surfactant compositions as formulated below. ______________________________________FORMULATION A______________________________________17.0 g Isopropanol 5.0 g Ethylene Glycol 16.4 g Deionized Water 11.6 g NaOH(50% aqueous) 30.0 g Dialkyl Benzene Sulfonate from Example 3 above 20.0 g Branched Monoalkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (98% active, E.W. = 309)*______________________________________ *Prepared by thin falling film sulfonation using Air/SO.sub.3 of alkylbenzene from the HF alkylation of benzene with propylene tetramer. ______________________________________FORMULATION B______________________________________17.0 g Isopropanol 5.0 g Ethylene Glycol 16.4 g Deionized Water 11.6 g NaOH(50% aqueous) 30.0 g Dialkyl Benzene Sulfonate, Commercial Source (94.6% active, E.W. = 429) 20.0 g Branched Monoalkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (98% active, E.W. = 309)*______________________________________ *Prepared by thin falling film sulfonation using Air/SO.sub.3 of alkylbenzene from the HF alkylation of benzene with propylene tetramer. Each of the two surfactant formulations above was diluted to 0.3 wt % with simulated field brine of the composition shown in Table 15. The alkalinity of each sample was adjusted to 0.6 to 1.40 wt % NaOH and the IFT of each sample against a Chinese crude oil at 45° C. was measured using a Model 500 Interfacial Tensiometer from the University of Texas, Austin, Tex. The results shown in Table 16 below indicate that the dialkylbenzene sulfonate produced by the invention gives ultralow interfacial tensions comparable to and somewhat superior to the heavy alkylbenzene sulfonate produce by the HF process. TABLE 15______________________________________Synthetic Brine Solution INGREDIENT CONC. mg/L______________________________________CO.sub.3.sup.-2 375 HCO.sub.3.sup.- 1342 Cl.sup.- 691 SO.sub.4.sup.-2 4.8 Ca.sup.+2 16 Mg.sup.+2 7.3 Na.sup.+ 1212 Total Dissolved Solids 3648______________________________________ TABLE 16______________________________________Interfacial Tensions Against Crude Oil, 45° C. INTERFACIAL INTERFACIAL TENSION, mN/m TENSION, mN/m NaOH, WT % FORMULATION A FORMULATION B______________________________________0.6 0.7 × 10.sup.-3 0.8 1.05 × 10.sup.-2 6.5 × 10.sup.-3 1.0 4.6 × 10.sup.-3 1.6 × 10.sup.-2 1.2 1.3 × 10.sup.-3 4.3 × 10.sup.-2 1.4 7.4 × 10.sup.-3______________________________________ The surface properties of the new compounds including low CMCs, low surface and interfacial tensions, and fast wetting times, make them ideal for a wide variety of surfactant applications including emulsifiers, wetting agents, dispersants, foaming agents, hydrotropes, detergents, and cleaners for industries and products such as oil field, agricultural, textile, corrosion inhibition, dye carriers, drilling fluids, lubricants,concrete, and cement.
New anionic surfactants and methods of preparation which are derived from aromatic or substituted aromatic molecules and alkenesulfonic acid. Wherein the aryl compound is alkylated and sulfonated in one-step with an alkene sulfonic acid prior to sulfonic acid neutralization. The methods allow the functional sulfonate group to be attached to the end of the alkyl chain rather than to the aromatic ring thus allowing for selective substituted groups, either branched, linear or alkoxylated or combinations thereof to be placed on the aryl compound prior to sulfonation and alkylation. The invention uses the alkene sulfonic acid produced from thin-film sulfonation of an alpha-olefin to alkylate benzene, mono-substituted aromatic, poly-substituted aromatic, alkylbenzene, alkoxylated benzene, polycyclic aromatic, mono-substituted polycyclic aromatic, poly-substituted polycyclic aromatic, naphthalene, alkylnaphthalene, phenol, alkylphenol, alkoxylated phenol, and alkoxylated alkylphenolalkyl substituted or polysubstituted cyclic or polycyclic compounds to produce the corresponding sulfonic acid having an additional alkyl group derived from the alpha-olefin used during the thin-film sulfonation which is either linear or branched.
8
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to semiconductor lasers and, more particularly, to high power semiconductor lasers providing high power output in a single diffraction-limited far field lobe. Many laser applications require high optical power with spatial coherency. Conventional lasers, i.e., solid-state, gas, and dye lasers, can provide these attributes, but the devices are generally large and complex. There is an increasing need to provide compact, electrically-driven semiconductor lasers in such fields as free-space communications, data storage, frequency doublers, and medical applications. The most common semiconductor laser structure presently used is the quantum well, graded-index separate confinement heterostructure (QW-GRINSCH). This structure contains a thin (<400 Å) small bandgap quantum well gain layer that is bounded by large bandgap cladding materials that are doped n-type and p-type on opposite sides to form an electrical junction. To reduce bandgap discontinuities and provide a better optical overlap to the gain region, the cladding layers are graded from the high bandgap materials to a lower bandgap alloy in the vicinity of the quantum well. Electrical injection of electrons is provided by a stripe of metal on top of the p-type cladding layer and a large area metal contact on the bottom of the n-type substrate layer. If a forward electrical bias is applied to the stripe, photons are emitted from the gain region as a result of electron-hole recombination. A pair of parallel facet mirrors are cleaved perpendicular to the plane of the junction forming what is known as a Fabry-Perot cavity, which provides the optical feedback to the photons emitted from the gain region. At a certain threshold bias, stimulated emission occurs, whereby the feedback provides an emission of light from the junction. To achieve high power in semiconductor lasers, the volume where gain occurs must be maximized. Due to quantization of the density of states, quantum well structures have higher gain per injected carrier than standard thick (bulk) active layers. To increase the gain from the quantum well structure, it is necessary to increase the gain volume while maintaining the thin transverse dimension of the quantum well. This might be accomplished by using large stripe widths. However, as stripe widths are increased above about 5 microns, filamentation effects and higher-order lateral modes are supported and the laser output can no longer be focused to a small spot in the far field. The use of narrow stripes with high injection current densities is not viable either; the higher injected current densities result in reduced device lifetimes. Further, the optical power impinging on the facets is limited to the catastrophic optical damage threshold of about 10 MW/cm 2 per facet, which limits the total power obtainable for a given metallization stripe width. Hence, there is a tradeoff with standard Fabry-Perot resonator designs between either having a wide stripe laser having a high output power, but poor coherence, or a narrow stripe laser with good coherence, but limited output power. To overcome these limitations, many techniques have been examined to achieve high power densities in a single optical mode, including arrays of coupled narrow stripe lasers, master-oscillator power amplifiers, and various unstable resonator geometries. In an unstable resonator laser, the cavity is fabricated such that any light rays that are not directly on the center of the lateral axis tend to diverge out of the lateral boundaries of the cavity. This geometry provides more gain to the fundamental mode, which has its peak energy at the central axis, while higher order modes, which have peak energies off the central axis, experience less gain before they diverge out of the cavity. The net result is that the cavity discriminates in favor of the fundamental mode and the cavity resonates in a single fundamental mode at higher power levels. In one approach to unstable resonator design for semiconductor lasers, shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,179,568, issued Jan. 12, 1993, the Fabry-Perot cavity was formed with curved facets for the end mirrors. However, a high precision manufacturing process, such as ion beam milling, is required to maintain losses at the mirrors within acceptable limits. The required high precision does not permit such devices to be formed in quantity and with reasonable reproducibility. Yet another approach is described in Paxton et al., "Semiconductor Laser with Regrown-Lens-Train Unstable Resonator: Theory and Design," 29 IEEE J. Quantum Electron., No. 11, pp. 2784-2792 (November 1993). A train of weak negative cylindrical lenses is grown into the structure to cause the fundamental mode to expand laterally as it propagates. For large changes in the effective index of refraction, however, each lens will act as a reflecting surface (as well as a diverging element) and will introduce concomitant cavity losses. One other approach, described in Chan et al., "Antiguiding Index Profiles in Broad Stripe Semiconductor Lasers for High-Power Single-Mode Operation," 24 IEEE J. Quantum Electron., pp. 489-495 (1988), provides a continuous variation of the index of refraction in the lateral dimension, with increasing index of refraction from the center of the resonator, so that the rays of the resonator mode curve away from the center of the laser. Simple, cleaved planar end mirrors may be used. But the device taught by Chan et al. provides an antiguiding layer of Ga 0 .7 Al 0 .3 As regrown on Ga 0 .85 Al 0 .15 As. These structures oxidize during the regrowth process with resultant poor electrical and optical performance (see, e.g., G. Guel et al., 21 J. Electron Mat. 1051 (1992)). Thus, the unstable resonator approach provides a means of obtaining a high power output with spatial coherency. In accordance with the present invention, a standard Fabry-Perot cavity is provided for laser resonance and a continuous, diverging medium is formed in the semiconductor structure, without significant oxidation effects, to cause higher order lateral modes to diverge out of the pumped region. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a semiconductor laser with a standard Fabry-Perot cavity for optical feedback and a continuous internal structure for removing unwanted higher order lateral lasing modes. It is also an object of the present invention to provide an antiguide layer for filtering out high order modes while enclosing the antiguide layer in cladding that is not subject to oxidation that cannot be removed. Another object of the present invention is to provide a semiconductor laser with reduced scattering and reflection losses. Yet another object of the present invention is to remove unwanted higher order modes from the resonant cavity before amplification of the unwanted modes. One other object of the present invention is to provide an unstable resonator that is easily manufactured with reproducible characteristics. Additional objects, advantages and novel features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION To achieve the foregoing and other objects, and in accordance with the purposes of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, the apparatus of this invention may comprise an improved semiconductor laser diode with a high optical output power in a single spatial mode and standard planar cleaved facets, a planar well graded index separate confinement heterostructure (QW-GRINSCH) active region. The improvement is an antiguide layer defining first and second surfaces and having a continuous lateral variation in index of refraction effective to form a waveguiding medium for undesired higher order optical modes resonating in a resonant cavity defined by the cleaved facets. First and second layers of GaAs overlie the first and second surfaces, respectively, to enclose the antiguide layer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, illustrate the embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings: FIG. 1A is a perspective cross-sectional view of a laser diode according to the present invention with an antiguide region below a QW-GRINSCH region. FIG. 1B is a magnified view of the conduction band energy E c configuration of the assymetric GRINSCH region. FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a shadow mask region after a second epitaxial growth step. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 with spun-on photoresist prior to removal of spacer and mask layers. FIG. 4 is a cross-section of a completed laser diode structure after a third epitaxial growth, oxide stripe definition, metallization, and ion implantation. FIG. 5 is a cross-section of an alternate device structure with an antiguide region above the QW-GRINSCH region. FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-section of the device shown in FIG. 5 incorporating a distributed feedback (DFB) region outside of the antiguide region. FIG. 7 is a three-dimensional perspective view of the antiguide region, showing the lateral thickness and effective index of refraction variation and illustrating the defocusing effect. FIG. 8 graphically depicts the transverse optical mode intensity profile at the center of the injection stripe for a device having the structure shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 9 graphically depicts the transverse optical intensity profile, as in FIG. 8, at the edge of the injection stripe. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, an unstable resonator semiconductor laser is obtained by creating a lateral variation in the effective index of refraction within the gain region while maintaining a cleaved Fabry-Perot cavity for optical feedback. The structure of a device formed according to the invention includes an assymetric planar QW-GRINSCH design, but also includes an antiguide layer of varying thickness that is coupled to the transverse optical mode supported by the GRINSCH and is clad with GaAs. As used herein, the longitudinal or "z" direction is the direction of light propagation; the lateral or "x" direction is the direction of the waveguiding action for the higher order modes; and the transverse or "y" direction is the direction of optical coupling for the resonant modes. In one embodiment the antiguide layer has a lower refractive index than the surrounding cladding layer and is thicker at the center than at the edge of injection stripe. The variation in refractive index and thickness provide a gradual effective index of refraction profile that is low in the center of the device and increases at the outer lateral edges of the antiguide layer. The effective index of refraction serves as a diverging waveguiding medium for light propagating in the longitudinal (z) direction that preferentially diverges higher order lateral optical modes out of the pumped cavity region. To reduce or prevent scattering or reflection optical losses, the antiguide layer generally maintains lateral (x) uniformity along the longitudinal (z) length of the device. A metal injection stripe on the semiconductor device, as explained below, may not be as wide as the antiguide layer, but the injection stripe and antiguide layer are preferably concentric for optimum performance. The degree of antiguiding, i.e., of optical waveguiding, and, hence, the round-trip lateral (x) magnification of the cavity, depends upon the effective lateral (x) profile of the device index of refraction. The effective index of refraction at a given lateral (x) position in the cavity is a function of many parameters, such as the thickness and composition of the antiguiding layer, the GRINSCH structure, the cladding layer compositions, and the position of the antiguiding layer with respect to the optical cavity. Ideally, the effective index of refraction should maintain a quadratic lateral dependence. Following the theory taught by Paxton et al., supra, if an unstable resonator has a quadratic lateral effective profile of the index of refraction given by n=n.sub.0 +n.sub.2 x.sub.2 where x is the lateral coordinate with x=0 being the center of the injection stripe, then the optical modes have cylindrical wavefronts in the lateral (x) direction with a radius of curvature given by ##EQU1## where n 0 is the refractive index at the center of the stripe and n 2 is a constant that reflects the strength of the antiguiding, as defined by Paxton. The radius of curvature is constant throughout the laser, unlike unstable resonators with curved facets, and the longitudinal optical mode rays follow positive exponential curves. The magnification M of the continuous unstable resonator is then given by ##EQU2## where L is the longitudinal length of the cavity. The creation of the quadratic effective index profile due to a laterally-varying antiguide layer embedded within an otherwise planar structure requires multiple epitaxial growth steps. The preferred epitaxial method for constructing these devices is conventional metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). It is preferable to create the antiguide layer by growth through a removable shadow mask as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,448,797. However, the antiguide layer can also be created by selectively etching a planar layer. The advantage of using shadow masking is that an epitaxial mask can be created in the growth sequence prior to the non-planar growth and the resulting shadow mask growth within the window will be smooth. The device as further described below advantageously combines conventional, simple processing steps with a standard Fabry-Perot laser design using cleaved facets. Further, the device retains a standard gain-guided waveguiding design and the emitting aperture and current injection area are increased while maintaining operation in the fundamental lateral optical mode. Hence, the maximum optical output power is increased, while reducing the optical flux density through the facets. As herein shown in the Figures, the present invention is depicted as a semiconductor laser providing high output powers in a single far field lobe. For purposes of illustration, the laser devices are described in the GaAs/AlGaAs material system with reference design thicknesses. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the principles described below are applicable to other material systems, i.e. , semiconductor materials formed from selected elements in Group III (B, Al, Ga, In) and Group V (N, P, As, Sb, Bi) of the Periodic Table and selected elements from Group II (Zn, Hg, Cd, Mg) and Group VI (S, Se, Te) of the Periodic Table. FIG. 1A depicts a perspective cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a semiconductor laser 10 according to the present invention. Semiconductor laser 10 includes nonplanar antiguide region 15 that is operatively located adjacent graded index separate confinement heterostructure (GRINSCH) gain region 14. Antiguide layer 15 has first and second surfaces that are clad with first and second GaAs layers 25 and 34, respectively. The use of GaAs minimizes oxidation at material interfaces and allows these interfaces to have good electrical and optical quality. GRINSCH region 14 has an asymmetric conduction band (E c ) profile, as shown in FIG. 1B, to shift the transverse optical mode (see FIGS. 8 and 9) towards antiguide region 15. The width of metallization contact 12 is defined by window 40 etched in a SiO 2 or Si 3 N 4 layer 13. In a preferred method of fabrication, three growth steps using metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) are conducted on substrate 17, which may be a n-doped (100)-oriented gallium arsenide (GaAs) material. In the first growth step, shown in FIG. 2, a n-type cladding layer 26 of approximately 1.5 micron thick Al 0 .4 Ga 0 .6 As is grown, followed by a 500 angstrom n-GaAs passivation layer 25, a 3-15 micron Al 0 .6 Ga 0 .4 As spacer layer 61 and a 1 micron thick GaAs mask layer 62. Window stripe 66 is then photolithographically defined on mask layer 62 and chemical etchants are used to etch mask layer 62 and spacer layer 61, while undercutting mask layer 62. The photolithographic masking and etching is conventional and is not part of the present invention. The second growth step, which occurs through the opening in mask layer 62 defined by window stripe 66, is known as shadow mask growth and is described in Demeester et al., "Non-Planar MOVPE Growth Using a Novel Shadow-Masking Technique," 107 J. Crystal Growth, pp. 161-165 (1991) and U.S. Pat. No. 4,448,797. The shadow mask growth, as shown in FIG. 3, provides the antiguide region 15 (FIG. 1 ) which consists of a n-Al 0 .7 Ga 0 .3 As layer 33 having a central thickness 1000 angstroms-0.5 microns along with a n-GaAs layer 32 having a thickness of 300-1000 angstroms. The thicknesses described above provide a lateral difference in the effective index of refraction of approximately 0.0005-0.025 between the center and the edges of the resulting antiguide region 15 (FIG. 1 ) over a distance of 20-200 μm, while maintaining a single optical transverse mode. After the second growth, photoresist 63 is spun onto the structure to protect layers 32 and 33 while spacer 61 and mask 62 are etched away. Photoresist 63 covering layer 32 is then removed using UV or plasma ozone treatments. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the third and final growth step is composed of a thin (50-100 angstroms) n-GaAs regrowth layer 34, a 0.2 micron thick n-Al 0 .4 Ga 0 .6 As cladding layer 35, the asymmetric undoped GRINSCH region 14 with 100 angstrom thick quantum well (QW)21 of In 0 .15 Ga 0 .85 As, bounded by barriers from compositions of Al 0 .2 Ga 0 .8 As to Al 0 .4 Ga 0 .6 As of thicknesses 1000 angstroms 22 below QW 21 and 3000 angstroms 20 above QW 21, a 1.5 micron thick upper cladding layer 19 of p-Al 0 .4 Ga 0 .6 As, and a 1000 angstrom thick contact layer 18 of p+-GaAs. Metal contact stripe 40 is then defined through dielectric 13. To prevent significant current spreading in the upper regions of semiconductor laser, a proton implant region 72 may be formed by conventional ion implantation techniques. FIG. 5 depicts in cross-section an alternate geometry for antiguide layer 15 (FIGS. 1 and 2). The semiconductor layers depicted in FIG. 5 are prime numbered and each layer is the same as the corresponding unprimed semiconductor layers depicted in FIGS. 1 2, and 4, with the same composition and geometry as discussed therein and is not separately discussed for FIG. 5. In the alternate geometry, GRINSCH region 14 (layers 20', 21', 22', 26', and 35') has an inverted assymetry from the structure as shown in FIG. 1, with thinner graded cladding 22'on top (closer to window 40') rather than on the bottom. In addition, antiguide region 15' (layers 32',33'), GaAs passivation layers 25', 32', and 34', and thin cladding layer 35' of Al 0 .4 Ga 0 .6 are doped with a p-type dopant (e.g., Zn, C, Mg) rather than a n-type dopant (e.g., Si, Te, S, Se). Again, antiguide region 15' is clad with GaAs layers 25' and 32'. The same design thicknesses may be used for the geometry of FIG. 4 as in the structure of FIG. 5, but the resulting effective differences in the index of refraction will be slightly different due to slight asymmetries between the structures. To maintain single optical mode operation, it is necessary to limit not only fundamental transverse (y) and lateral (x) mode waveguiding, but also longitudinal optical modes. Hence, a conventional distributed feedback (DFB) might be used as shown in FIG. 6 to maintain single longitudinal optical mode operation. The device fabrication steps outlined above are compatible with the creation of DFB gratings. DFB grating 71 (having a selected longitudinal length 50) can be etched into GaAs passivation layer 25' outside the longitudinal length 49 of antiguide region 15' and before back facet face 78. This fabrication step can occur prior to the third growth step after shadow mask layers 61 and 62 (FIGS. 2 and 3) have been removed. As pictorially shown in FIG. 7, nonplanar antiguide region 15' extends along the longitudinal (z-direction) direction 49 of the device structure. Ideally, antiguide region 15' exhibits a lateral thickness variation that provides a parabolic profile 45 of effective refractive index n eff in the lateral (x) direction. With such a profile, optical beams with a peak intensity aligned with the central lateral (z) axis 27 will have less divergence than off-axis beams; however, any beams that are off-axis, e.g., beams 28a and 28b, will diverge as beams 29a, 29b, respectively, out of antiguide region 15'. The transverse optical mode 72 in the center of the stripe has its peak intensity aligned with QW 21, as shown in FIG. 8. However, at the edges of the stripe, the transverse optical mode 73 is distributed more evenly over both the QW region 21 and antiguide region 15, (layers 32, 33, and 34), as shown in FIG. 9. In both FIGS. 8 and 9, conduction band energy (E c ) is shown for the material layers forming the semiconductor laser 10. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the notation X In indicates an increasing concentration of In and the notation X Al indicates an increasing concentration of Al to form the indicated conduction band energy levels. The above description is directed to an antiguide medium that acts to diverge off-axis beams from the Fabry-Perot cavity in order to suppress the high order beams. However, antiguide medium 33, (see, e.g., FIG. 4) can also act to converge all of the modes to the central axis if a high power and spatially incoherent beam is needed. In this case, a focusing waveguide medium is formed in place of antiguide medium 33 by replacing layer 33 with GaAs and layer 34 with Al 0 .4 Ga 0 .6 As. The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto.
A semiconductor laser diode provides high optical power output in a single diffraction-limited farfield lobe using a conventional Fabry-Perot resonant cavity and a planar well graded index separate confinement heterostructure (QW-GRINSCH) active region. An antiguide region is optically coupled to the active region of the laser. In one embodiment, the antiguide region has a lateral variation in the effective index of refraction that forms a diverging medium that causes higher order optical modes to have higher losses in the resonant cavity. The waveguide medium preferably varies in thickness and the thickness approximates a parabolic function in the lateral direction. The antiguide region is enclosed by GaAs layers to minimize oxidation at material interfaces during device fabrication.
7
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is a continuation of copending International Application No. PCT/DE01/04089 filed Oct. 29, 2001, which designates the United States. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to a fluid dosing device for a pressurized liquid with a chamber arranged in a housing, which is supplied with pressurized fluid by means of a liquid supply line and with a valve needle, which is guided through the chamber, the first end section of said valve needle being able to be lifted outside the chamber and the second end section thereof forming a valve which is connected to the housing, in conjunction with a valve seat provided on the housing. [0003] Various sealing or leadthrough elements for fluid dosing devices are known in the prior art. In cases where pressurized fuel at a pressure of up to 300 bar for example and a working temperature of −40° C. to +150° C. is dosed, special requirements are set for mass-produced products. In particular exacting requirements must be complied with in respect of embrittlement, wear and reliability. The fatigue strength of the O-ring seals used up to now does not comply with the above requirements. Diaphragm seals such as for example metal beads, etc. can also be used in place of O-ring seals. When such diaphragms are used as the leadthrough element for a valve needle through a pressurized chamber however the requirements relating to high axial flexibility are not complied with when the compression strength is adequate. [0004] The valve needle can also continue to be effected [sic] by means of a clearance fit of the needle in a cylindrical hole in the housing as in diesel injectors. A disadvantage of this is the unavoidable leakage along the needle leadthrough. The higher level of hydraulic loss also reduces the overall efficiency of the motor. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a tight leadthrough for the valve needle in a generic fluid dosing device in particular, which achieves the required fatigue strength. [0006] According to the invention this is achieved with a fluid dosing device for a pressurized fluid comprising a chamber located in a housing, to which the pressurized liquid is guided through a liquid supply line, a valve needle guided through the chamber, wherein a stroke can be applied to a first end section thereof outside of the chamber and the second end section thereof forming, in conjunction with a valve seat disposed on the housing, a valve which is connected to the chamber, and a flexible leadthrough element being provided for the first end section of the valve needle from the chamber outwards, which seals the chamber in said region in a tight manner, wherein at least one throttle point is provided circumferentially between the valve needle and the inner wall of the chamber in the section of the chamber between the leadthrough element and the mouth of the liquid supply line into the chamber, with a gap representing the throttle point being a few μm wide. [0007] The object can also be achieved by a fluid dosing device for a pressurized fluid comprising a chamber located in a housing, to which the pressurized liquid is guided through a liquid supply line, a valve needle guided through the chamber having a first end section outside of the chamber and a second end section which forms in conjunction with a valve seat disposed on the housing a valve which is connected to the chamber, and a flexible leadthrough element being provided for the first end section of the valve needle, which seals the chamber in said region in a tight manner, wherein at least one throttle point is provided circumferentially between the valve needle and the inner wall of the chamber in the section of the chamber between the leadthrough element and the mouth of the liquid supply line into the chamber, wherein the throttle point is formed by a gap having a width of a few μm. [0008] The fluid dosing device may further comprise bellows, in particular metal bellows, as the leadthrough element. The metal bellows may have a wall strength of 25 to 500 μm. The leadthrough element may be attached to an assembly sleeve, in particular by means of a welded connection. The throttle point may be created in the chamber by the assembly sleeve. An upper valve needle guide can be provided and the throttle point can be created in the chamber by the upper valve needle guide. The free cross-section between the valve needle and the inner wall of the chamber can be changed abruptly in the region of the throttle point. The gap in the region of the throttle point may be a few μm wide. Fuel can be used as the liquid and the fuel pressure may be in the range of between 1 and 500 bar. The diameter of a clearance fit of the valve needle can correspond to a hydraulically effective diameter of the metal bellows. [0009] According to the invention, at least one throttle point is arranged circumferentially between the valve needle and the inner wall of the chamber in the chamber section between the leadthrough element and the mouth of the liquid supply line into the chamber. Measurements have shown that metal bellows designed as leadthrough elements for use in high pressure injection valves, for example in vehicle engineering, can withstand static pressure loads up to approx. 200 bar without any problems. A much higher compression resistance can also be achieved by increasing the wall thickness. Further tests on moving metal bellows seals also showed that metal bellows subjected to high pressure do not suffer degradation during execution of an axial movement of up to 50 μm with a frequency of 50 Hz typical of the injection valves. Using metal bellows thus means that the fuel chamber is hermetically sealed with adequate compression strength. [0010] It was however surprisingly established that the metal bellows fail after approx. 10 min when used operationally in a high-pressure injection valve at a static pressure load of 200 bar. The reason for this is that during the opening and closing of the injection valve or injector, pressure waves are triggered in the fuel chamber of the injector, which fluctuate about the basic pressure set with an amplitude of up to ±50% of the fuel pressure set and a frequency of approx. 500 Hz-10 Hz, typically in the range of approx. 500-800 Hz, depending on the opening and closing times of the injector. The occurrence of such pressure oscillations results in failure of the metal bellows seal when pressure waves are triggered. The throttle points provided according to the invention protect the metal bellows from the destructive effect of these pressure oscillations. [0011] To summarize, therefore, according to the invention adequate tightness of the fuel chamber is achieved by means of the metal bellows, with the metal bellows seal being protected from pressure waves occurring during operation, thereby achieving a typical fatigue strength for vehicle engineering of at least 10 9 load cycles (approx. 2000 operating hours). [0012] Advantageously the metal bellows have a wall strength of 25 to 500 μm. These low wall strength levels have proven totally adequate at high pressures of for example 300 bar. Tests have shown that a configuration of the metal bellows in the form of semi-circular segments ranged adjacent to each other—visible in the longitudinal cross-section—offers particular advantages. These semi-circular segments can be supplemented by intermediate straight sections. [0013] According to a preferred embodiment the flexible leadthrough element is attached to an assembly sleeve, in particular by means of a welded connection. This is particularly favorable for manufacturing purposes, as metal bellows in particular can only be attached directly to the valve needle at relatively high cost. The assembly sleeve provides an element by means of which a precisely dimensioned throttle point can be achieved in the fuel chamber in a simple manner. [0014] In order to be able to create a suitable throttle point in the fuel chamber, an upper guide sleeve is configured as an alternative to or in addition to the appropriately dimensioned assembly sleeve, so that a narrow and as long as possible a clearance fit is achieved through this valve needle guide. As the upper valve needle guide is provided anyway in the fuel injector, additional components can be dispensed with. [0015] If both the assembly sleeve and upper valve needle guide throttle points are created at the same time in the fluid dosing device, the respective throttle gaps can be larger and/or shorter in the axial direction, without having a negative impact on the protective effect of the throttle points for the metal bellows. Also fitting errors are avoided, which may result in the valve needle jamming. However this also applies if the throttle point created by the assembly sleeves is dispensed with, with the throttle point created by the upper guide sleeve being designed accordingly. [0016] In order to prevent or significantly restrict propagation of the pressure waves in the fuel chamber in the direction of the metal bellows, the free cross-section between the valve needle and the inner wall of the chamber is changed abruptly in the region of the throttle point. This results in the required reflection of the pressure waves off the section of the inner wall of the chamber extending perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the pressure waves. [0017] The gap width of the throttle point is selected on the basis of the position of the throttle point in the fuel chamber and the length of the throttle gap taking into account the static and dynamic pressure conditions. A few μm have proved to be a typical value for the gap width of the throttle point in the fuel chamber of a high-pressure fuel injector. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0018] Four embodiments of the fluid dosing device according to the invention are described below using diagrammatic representations. These show: [0019] [0019]FIG. 1 a a longitudinal section of the first embodiment of the fluid dosing device, [0020] [0020]FIG. 1 b two cross-sectional representations along the lines A-A and B-B in FIG. 1 a, [0021] [0021]FIG. 2 a longitudinal section of the second embodiment, [0022] [0022]FIG. 3 a a longitudinal section of the third embodiment of the fluid dosing device and [0023] [0023]FIG. 3 b two cross-sectional representations along the lines A-A and B-B in FIG. 3 a. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0024] The actuator unit generally known per se is not shown for the purposes of simplicity in an injection value 1 shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 1 a, b according to a first embodiment. The fuel injection valve 1 has a housing 3 with a central hole, in which a valve body 5 is mounted. A valve needle 9 is guided in an axially displaceable manner in a valve body hole 7 of the valve body. To this end a lower or front and upper or rear guide sleeve 11 , 13 is attached to the valve body 5 in the upper and lower end sections of the valve body hole 7 and these guide sleeves create corresponding valve needle guides. The resulting narrow points are designed so that they do not impede or throttle a flow of liquid when the valve 1 opens and closes. To this end the valve needle 9 has a circumferentially projecting, rounded square cross-section according to FIGS. 1 a, b (section A-A and section B-B) at both the level of the lower and upper guide sleeves 11 , 13 or the two valve needle guides. The valve needle 9 with the rounded edge areas 14 is inserted into the two guide sleeves 11 , 13 with a clearance of less than 2 μm. The free gap between the four side surfaces of the square of the valve needle 9 and the cylindrical inner wall of the guide sleeves 11 , 13 is configured so that it is significantly larger to avoid any throttle effect. [0025] In the basic state a valve disk 15 configured at the front end section of the valve needle 9 seals a valve seat 16 on the valve body 5 . A valve body fuel supply line 17 is provided in the valve body and this opens into the valve body hole 7 with a mouth 19 between the lower and upper guide sleeves 11 , 13 when viewed in the axial direction. A housing fuel supply line 21 is also correspondingly provided in the valve housing 3 . At the upper end section of the valve needle 9 a spring plate 23 is attached to this. A nozzle spring 25 presses against this and is braced on the housing side, thereby tensioning the valve needle 9 in the closing direction. Above the upper guide sleeve 13 an outer assembly sleeve 27 is attached in the central hole of the valve housing 3 . The outer assembly sleeve 27 has a sleeve collar 44 at its lower end and this rests on a ring-shaped contact surface 45 on the housing 3 . The sleeve collar has an outer surface 46 , which is assigned to an inner wall 47 of the housing 3 . A sealing element 48 in the form of a sealing ring is inserted between the outer surface 46 and the inner wall 47 . The sleeve collar 44 is welded tightly to the inner wall 47 with a ring-shaped circumferential weld seam 49 . This creates a needle leadthrough through an opening in a sleeve base 29 , the leadthrough being sealed as described below. In a partial section of the outer assembly sleeve 27 restricted in the axial direction its inner wall forms a narrow point described in more detail below with the outer wall of an inner assembly sleeve 31 , which is in turn attached to the valve needle 9 . Cylindrical metal bellows 33 are welded to the outer and inner assembly sleeves 27 , 31 , the valve needle 9 being guided outwards by said bellows. The metal bellows 33 serve to seal the fuel chamber 35 off hermetically from an unpressurized, air-filled intermediate space 36 . The metal bellows 33 are preferably in the region of the opening on the sleeve base 29 and attached to a surface of the inner assembly sleeve 31 , which is turned towards the sleeve base 29 . [0026] Using the metal bellows 33 in the needle leadthrough allows the high-pressure area in the chamber 35 of the injection valve 1 to be sealed off totally, permanently and reliably from the intermediate space 36 with the drive area (not shown). Despite a low level of wall strength of for example 50 to 500 μm the metal bellows 33 can withstand very high pressures due to their very high level of radial rigidity, without suffering irreversible deformation. The metal bellows 33 can also be designed so that high mechanical flexibility, i.e. a small spring constant in the direction of movement of the valve needle or the axial direction, is achieved. This means that deflection of the valve needle 9 is not impaired and that the forces induced in the valve needle due to length changes in the needle leadthrough caused by temperature are kept as small as possible. Furthermore the use of the metal bellows 33 in the needle leadthrough means that fuel leakage can be prevented with a high level of reliability. [0027] The needle leadthrough sealed with the metal bellows in the outer assembly sleeve 27 can also be configured so that the forces caused by pressure and acting on the valve needle 9 mutually offset each other. This means that the valve needle 9 is generally kept pressure-free. For this the hydraulically effective diameter of the metal bellows is selected so that it corresponds exactly to the diameter of the valve seat 16 (not shown). As a result the pressure force triggered by the pressurized fuel acting on the valve needle 9 and the valve disk 15 and the force induced due to pressure by the metal bellows 33 in the valve needle mutually offset each other. This means there is no pressure force component acting on the valve needle 9 as a result. This ensures that the injection valve 1 exhibits a switching response which is almost completely independent of the fuel pressure, as the opening and closing forces are only determined by the actuator element, for example by piezo-actuators pretensioned in a spring tube, and the force of the pretensioned nozzle spring 25 . The metal bellows 33 also have a broad operating temperature range with the same level of functionality due to their metal material. Even thermal length changes in the metal bellows 33 only result in negligibly small changes of force at the valve needle 9 in the axial direction due to the low level of axial spring constant of the metal bellows. The metal bellows can also partially or wholly replace the nozzle spring 25 due to their mechanical spring effect in the axial direction. [0028] The outer sleeve housing 27 is configured according to FIG. 1 a so that it creates a narrow and as long as possible a clearance fit with the inner assembly sleeve 31 . The clearance here is only a few μm. The throttle effect of this long cylindrical fit means that rapid pressure changes in the fuel chamber 35 are kept away from the metal bellows 33 , while static pressures can act unhindered on the bellows wall. Also the pressure waves in the region of the cross-section change of the first throttle point 37 are reflected off the chamber wall section perpendicular to the axial direction or the front face of the sleeve, so that only a pressure wave with a greatly reduced pressure amplitude continues into the ring-shaped gap created by the first throttle point 37 . [0029] With a fuel injection valve 1 according to the second embodiment only one modification is made in FIG. 2 in the region of the first throttle point 37 compared with the valve 1 according to the first embodiment, to the effect that the free internal diameter of the sleeve collar 44 of the outer assembly sleeve 27 is reduced for the same throttle gap dimensions in favor of the external diameter of the inner assembly sleeve 31 . As in the valve according to the first embodiment the throttle gap between inner and outer assembly sleeves 27 , 31 is selected to be so small and long that an adequate throttle effect is achieved. The pressure waves triggered during the opening and closing of the valve 1 in the fuel chamber 35 cannot or can only slightly impact on the metal bellows 33 due to the short distance between the inner and outer assembly sleeves 27 , 31 . [0030] A fuel injection valve 1 according to the third embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 a, b has a second throttle point 39 in the region of the upper valve needle guide or the upper guide sleeve 13 as an alternative in place of the first throttle point according to the first two embodiments. As the fuel supply line 17 opens below the upper valve needle guide 13 into the space between the valve needle 9 and the valve body 5 or the fuel chamber 35 , the fuel to be injected into this does not have to pass the upper valve needle guide 13 . Therefore the upper valve needle guide can even be configured as a narrow, long cylindrical clearance fit of the valve needle 9 in the upper guide sleeve 13 , as shown in section B-B in FIG. 3 b. Unlike the lower valve needle guide (section A-A) the valve needle 9 here is not configured as a square but is cylindrical (section B-B). The pressure waves triggered during opening and closing processes are reflected off this second throttle point 39 and a dynamic volume exchange is throttled significantly in the direction of the metal bellows 33 . Integration of the throttle point 39 in the valve needle guide means that multifits can be avoided. The throttle effect of the upper valve needle guide 13 splits the fuel chamber 35 into two sub-volumes, namely a first and a second chamber sub-volume 41 , 43 . Although dynamic pressure changes of great amplitude are generated in the lower first sub-volume 41 of the fuel chamber 35 by the opening and closing of the injection nozzle, the action of these in the upper second sub-volume 43 of the fuel chamber 35 , where the metal bellows needle leadthrough is located, can be greatly reduced by the dynamic sealing effect of the second throttle point 39 . The metal bellows 33 are protected from dynamic pressure changes as a result. [0031] According to the fourth embodiment of a fuel injection valve (not shown) the throttle points 37 , 39 shown in FIGS. 1 or 2 and 3 are combined in one valve. The first throttle point 37 is created by the inner and outer assembly sleeves 27 , 31 and the second throttle point 39 is created by the upper guide sleeve 13 or the upper valve needle guide. [0032] In the embodiments disclosed bellows in the form of a metal bellows were disclosed as a flexible leadthrough element. The invention is however not limited to this type of flexible leadthrough element but can also be used with other types of flexible leadthrough elements such as for example a diaphragm or a flexible plastic or rubber sleeve. The diaphragm is preferably made of metal. The diaphragm and the sleeve are stuck or welded in the same way as the disclosed metal bellows to the inner and outer assembly sleeve 27 , 31 . [0033] In general the pressure in the second chamber sub-volume 43 can be adjusted by appropriate selection of the diameter of the clearance fit of the valve needle 9 in relation to the hydraulically effective diameter of the metal bellows 33 . Adjusting the diameter of the clearance fit to be bigger (or smaller) than the hydraulically effective diameter of the metal bellows 33 means that the pressure in the second chamber sub-volume 43 drops (or increases) when the injection valve is opened. It is particularly advantageous if the diameter of the clearance fit corresponds to the hydraulically effective diameter of the metal bellows 33 , because in this way the pressure in the second chamber sub-volume 43 remains essentially constant when the injection valve is opened; the metal bellows 33 are then only exposed to a constant pressure load in all operating states.
A fluid dosing device for a pressurized liquid is disclosed, which comprises a chamber ( 35 ) which is supplied with pressurized liquid by means of a liquid supply line ( 17, 19 ); a valve needle ( 9 ) which is guided through the chamber ( 35 ), the first end section of said valve needle being able to be lifted and the second end section thereof forming a valve in conjunction with a valve seat disposed on the housing ( 3 ). Metal bellows ( 33 ) are provided as a leadthrough element for the first end section of the valve needle ( 9 ). The metal bellows seal the chamber in said region in a tight manner. A throttle point ( 37, 39 ) is provided between the valve needle ( 9 ) and the inner wall of the chamber between the metal bellows ( 33 ) and the mouth ( 18 ) of the liquid supply line ( 17 ) leading into the chamber.
5
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an assembly comprising an extension tube and a sleeving conduit. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The principle of sleeving the main tube of a riser in offshore drilling is known from the prior art. However, prior art devices are based on the principle of a rigid connection between the sleeving conduit elements providing transmission of a longitudinal force and tightness between the inside and the outside of the sleeving. Such connections may be produced in the same manner as those ordinarily used for well tubing with a threaded assembly which is fairly time-consuming and difficult to effect, and whose reliability of tightness and mechanical strength over a given time period may be questionable after several assembly and disassembly operations. Specially designed connectors of the riser connector type are difficult to design in view of the small space available and would considerably increase the weight and cost of sleeving. Because of the principle upon which prior sleevings have been developed, the prior sleeving systems require the use of a sliding seal inserted into the sleeving in order to compensate for the differential longitudinal deformations of the sleeving conduit and the tube under the effect of variations in traction, pressure and temperature. This sliding seal, since it requires a long travel path, may be several meters in length and is difficult to use since the seal is subjected to substantial pressure differentials and especially since the seal would be located at a lower part of the sleeving conduit. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In offshore drilling, an assembly according to the present invention has a twin objective, namely, decreasing the volume of mud employed, and decreasing the total mass and apparent weight of the extension tube and its contents, thereby allowing the assembly to be used at considerable depths when the mud density is high and the wellhead tensioning capability is limited. "Extension tube", as used in this text, is understood to be the main conduit of a riser, with the conduit connecting the sea bed to a floating installation at the surface. The conduit may, for example, be a production, a drilling, or an intervention (maintenance) conduit in a well. The aim underlying the present invention essentially resides in providing an assembly of the aforementioned type which avoids the above mentioned disadvantages. According to the present invention, the extension tube has several elements adapted to be connected together. When the extension tube is to be use alone, for example, when a large-diameter passage is required, when, for example, drilling holes up to 171/2" in diameter are necessary, these elements of the extension tube are simply connected together. When the necessary passage diameter is smaller such as, for example, in the small-diameter drilling phases of 121/4" and above, a sleeving conduit is used to obtain the advantages noted above. According to the invention, the sleeving conduit, having an outside diameter less than an inner diameter of the extension tube, has several elements Each sleeving element and each tube element has means for supporting the former in the latter. Axial locking of a sleeving element to the extension tube is accomplished automatically upon connection of two adjacent sleeving elements of the extension tube which accommodates, with some clearance, the supporting means serving to hold the sleeving elements. Tightness between the sleeving elements is obtained by virtue of nesting of the sleeving elements. The assembly according to the invention allows the weight of the sleeving to be transferred to the extension tube in a stepped manner, thereby solving the problems created by differences in expansion between the extension tube and the sleeving conduit by dividing it, for a few centimeters, between each connection. Moreover, the assembly according to the invention is easy and quick to implement, with each conduit element simply being supported by an element of the extension tube. Thus, without a special assembly operation, the sleeving elements can be fitted into or removed from the corresponding tube elements. Of course this assumes that the elements of the extension tube are disassembled. By virtue of the features of the present invention, each sleeving element has only it own weight to support, and not the weight of the other sleeving elements below it. The sleeving principle according to the present invention has a number of advantages over prior art devices such as, for example, a tightness of the conduit elements may be achieved by simple nesting, and only minor modifications to the existing riser connectors to receive the sleeving are necessary, particularly in a "Clip Riser" which is a registered trademark of the Institut Francais du Petrole. Moreover, the sleeving requires no tensioning when fitted into the riser, and hence no time-consuming operations with expensive special tools. Furthermore, by virtue of the constructional features of the present invention, the sleeving is not dynamically stressed. Additionally, if during drilling with the aid of the sleeving, the riser must be refitted, this refitting and that of the sleeving are accomplished simultaneously, thereby affording considerable time savings. The same advantages apply to re-lowering the riser equipped with the sleeving. More generally, the present invention relates to an assembly having an extension tube and a sleeving conduit inside this tube, with the tube comprising several assembled elements. The sleeving conduit also has several elements and the assembly includes mean for fitting each of the conduit elements to a corresponding element of the tube. The fitting means are designed to support the elements of the conduit on an element of the tube. Each conduit element has two ends, one of which may be male and the other female. The male end is constructed to cooperate with the female end of the adjacent conduit element. Moreover, the assembly according to the invention may have means for creating tightness between the space inside the conduit and the annular space delimited by the inner wall of the tube and the outer wall of the conduit, with such means including seals. The male end of a conduit element may be constructed to slide in the female end of the adjacent conduit element in order to compensate for different degrees of deformation in the conduit and the tube without the stress of differences in traction, pressure and temperature. This prevents accumulation of stresses due to the bottom effect on the entire conduit, and limits them. Each element undergoes only the bottom effects to which it is subjected and supports only its own weight. The connecting means may include a supporting part attached to one end of the conduit element, with the supporting part being constructed to nest in a recess located at the end of an element of this tube. The supporting part may have passages for allowing circulation and/or communication through the annular space. The ends of two adjacent elements of the tube may cooperate with each other to limit displacements of the supporting part. The supporting part may be a suspension part or a bearing part supporting, in the first case, the load of a sleeving conduit element located below it and, in the second case, the load of a conduit element located above it. The assembly according to the invention may comprise sealing means at the upper and lower ends of the conduit, with the means providing tightness of the annular space delimited by the outer wall of the conduit and the inner wall of the tube. The sealing means of the lower part may be constructed to allow the conduit to slide relative to the tube. The development of offshore deep drilling with the use of the 21" extension tube associated with column head sealing systems known as 183/4" BOPs allows the use of steel to come under advantageous consideration for the sleeving conduit, although other lighter materials such as titanium alloys and composites could be considered. In particular, at least one of the conduit elements may be encircled by reinforcing bands. This banded portion of the conduit element may be located at the lower part of the conduit. Of course, an entire portion of conduit may be banded and could preferably be located at the lower part of the conduit. Banding of the conduit at its lower part allows the performance of this portion of conduit to be adjusted to its use conditions. Thus, at the lower part of the conduit, internal pressures increase, so that the conduit walls of this part must withstand the pressures. At least one of the conduit elements ma have flotation means, and the adjacent ends of two tube elements may have a bayonet type connector. The assembly according to the invention may comprise means for positioning, guiding, and supporting the conduit in the tube. The tube may have one opening in the vicinity of its lower end and another opening in the vicinity of its upper end, with these openings being constructed to be connected to means for circulating a fluid in the annular space delimited by the inner wall of the tube and the outer wall of the conduit. The assembly according to the invention may comprise at least one other conduit having several elements connected together, with this other conduit being inside the same conduit. Moreover, the assembly according to the invention may have means for assembling each of the elements of the other conduit to one element of the first conduit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be better understood and its advantages will emerge more clearly from the following description of particular and nonlimiting examples illustrated by the attached drawings, wherein: FIG. 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an assembly according to the invention as applied to the field of drilling; FIGS. 2, 3 and 4 are elevational views, partially in section of a lower end, a riser element, and an upper end of an extension tube equipped with sleeving, respectively; FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an alternative embodiment of a suspension part at the upper end of the sleeving; FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 are cross-sectional views of elements for protecting the threads, the seal retainers, or to block off a recess serving to support a sleeving element, with the protective or blocking element being fitted in the absence of the sleeving; FIG. 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the sleeving including another sleeving; FIG. 9 is a schematic view of an arrangement for filling of the annular space defined between the inner wall of the tube and the outer wall of the sleeving; and FIGS. 10 and 11 are cross-sectional views of portions of alternate arrangements wherein the supporting parts have support faces which support a weight of a sleeving. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals are used throughout the various views to designate like parts and, more particularly, to FIG. 1, according to this figure, a floating installation 54 supports an assembly according to the invention on a surface 53 of water by tensioning devices 55. A sleeving conduit 38, composed of tubular elements, is installed outside a drilling extension tube 39, with the sleeving conduit 38 including several elements 40, 41, 42. Each of the elements 40, 41, 42 is connected lengthwise at 43, 44, etc. to the extension tube. A link 46 between two consecutive sleeving elements 40, 41, provides a seal between the inside 47 of the sleeving and an annular space 48 located between the sleeving conduit 38 and extension tube 39, with no transmission of force in a longitudinal direction. The drilling extension tube 39 includes a plurality of elements 50, 56, 57, 58, 61 connected by connectors. An upper element 49 of the sleeving 38 may be installed in a first element of the extension tube 39 beyond a telescopic joining element 51, connected longitudinally to the extension tube 39, and also seal the annular space 48 created between the sleeving conduit 38 and the extension tube 39. The telescopic joining element 51 allows for the movements of the floating installation 54 relative to the sea bed to be absorbed These movements may be due to swell. The telescopic joining element 51 has two tubes, one of which slides inside the other. A lower sleeving element 60 may be installed in the last element 61 of the extension tube 39 located before wellhead 62, possibly with a flexible joint 63, a general lower sealing assembly 64 (BOP) designed by the individual skilled in the art, which may have an LMRP 65. This assembly is connected lengthwise to the extension tube and also ensures lower sealing of the annular space 48 created between the sleeving conduit 38 and the extension tube 39. Each element 40, 41, 42, 49, 60, etc. of the sleeving may hence be dimensioned solely as a function of the pressure differential between the inside of the sleeving and the annular space 48, with the only force applied in the longitudinal direction being a weight of the respective elements which may be disregarded. By its design, the sleeving according to the invention is dimensioned only for a pressure differential between an interior of the sleeving and the annular space, and practically does not operate traction-wise. The banding or reinforcing process described in FR-A-2491044 applies very well to this type of sleeving, and would allow the weight to be reduced still further by reinforcing only the lower sleeving elements, i.e. those subjected to the greatest stresses in a manner shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, wherein a banding or reinforcing layer 14a is provided only at the lower sleeving element but no banding or reinforcing layer is provided at the upper sleeving element (FIG. 4). The size of the banding or reinforcing layer 14a can be adapted to the stresses to which the various conduit elements are subjected. Thus, the more these elements are called upon to withstand major stresses, the larger the banding layer 14a may be. Thus, the banding or reinforcing layer 14 of the lowermost conduit element may be thicker than the banding or reinforcing layer 14b of the conduit element above it. Banding or reinforcing layer 14b may itself be above the banding or reinforcing layer 14c of the conduit element above the one containing the banding or reinforcing layer 14b. It will not be a departure from the present invention to make portions of several sleeving elements, each being composed of elements of the same type of banding or reinforcing (with the same performance). This makes it unnecessary to have a plurality of different types of sleeving elements and limits marking or identifying of these conduit elements. The pressure in the annular space 48 can easily be adjusted at any time by a line connecting the lower part 67 of the annular space 48 to the surface. The sleeving may be lightened by conventional syntactic foam arrangements 13 that are accommodated in a part of the annular space 48. A conduit 66, which may be a mud booster line, connects lower part 67 of the annular space 48 to a reservoir located on the floating support. This reservoir will be used to fill the annular space 48 when the sleeving is fitted and will serve to compensate for variations in volume that may continuously occur due to, for example, variations in temperature, riser tension, etc. Another conduit 68 may also connect upper part 69 of the annular space 48 to another reservoir located on the floating installation or support 54 in order to thus create a possibility of fluid circulating in the annular space 48. The same annular space 48 will be filled with sea water or any other low-density liquid such as, for example, fuel, liquid syntactic foam, etc., by lines 66 and 68. An example is given below of fitting the sleeving together, with a detailed description of certain elements according to the invention in particular but not limited case of drilling. In a first phase, drilling operations are conducted through a drilling riser a shown in FIG. 1 but not equipped with the sleeving. This riser or extension tube connects the floating installation or support 54 to a wellhead 62 anchored in the sea bed. The riser diameter is, for example, 21", with the progress of drilling being such that several casings 70, 71, etc. have been installed and cemented in order to hold the well walls. In FIG. 1, the 171/2" diameter drilling phase has just been completed, and a 133/8" casing has been installed and cemented. Drilling is now to continue in a smaller diameter, for example, 121/4" with a higher density mud. In order not to have to increase the tension at the head of the riser beyond the capacity of tensioners 55 and to keep the mud and spoil rise speed as constant as possible during the entire raising phase, it is necessary to sleeve the riser. If a BOP 64, having two sealing subassemblies 65 and 72, is used, the well can be closed by jaws located on sealing subassembly 72, the riser and LMRP 65 will be disconnected and brought to the surface in order for the female element 6, FIG. 2, of the lower connector of the riser, which may be a flex joint 63, to be above the spider located on the rotary table. On the drilling floating installation or support 54, the riser sleeving conduit elements 1, that is the bottom element and top element have already been equipped with a suspension part 2, sealing joints 3 (FIG. 3), 8 (FIG. 2), 9 (FIG. 2), and 26 (FIG. 4), floats and/or centering devices 15 (FIG. 3) which function to prevent the sleeving from buckling. Suspension parts 2, the riser elements of the bottom element, may have holes 4 to allow fluid to pass into an annular zone 7. Sealing part 5 of the lower part of the annular space 7, provided with its sealing joints 8 and 9, is installed in the female element 6 of a first connector of the riser, which may be that of the flex joint located just above the LMRP 65. The sealing part 5 may be attached by threading and, in this case, with a drilling operation, in the absence of the sealing part 5, care must be taken to protect threads 16 and the seal retainer by a protective part 17, (FIG. 5). A short element 10 of the riser is then connected to the female element 6, with the short element 10 being provided with an orifice 11 connected to conduit 12 (FIG. 2) 68 (FIG. 1) which may be the mud booster line. The assembly thus constituted is lowered to the spider located on the rotary table. A short sleeving element 14 (FIG. 2), 60 (FIG. 1), whose length corresponds essentially to that of the short element 10 of the riser, is then slid inside the riser. The end of the sleeving element 14 cooperates with the sealing part 5 to create a seal through seals 9 The sleeving element 14 has a suspension part 2 (FIG. 3), with the suspension part 1 resting on a shoulder 19 provided at the upper part of the short element 10. A riser element 18 is then connected and is longitudinally immobilized by its end 22 with a slight clearance with respect to the sleeving element 14 by the suspension part 2. The assembly is then lowered again to the rotary table. A riser sleeving element 1, fully equipped, is then introduced and creates a seal with the short element 10 by the sealing joints 3. The operation is thus repeated until the last riser sleeving element is installed. The annular space 48 is regularly filled with sea water either through conduit 12 or through orifices 4 of the suspension part 2 in order not to have to connect and reconnect hose 23 each time (FIG. 9). Care should be taken to never completely fill the last sleeving element, as long as it has not yet been immobilized in a longitudinal direction by the riser element above it since, even if it has no float, it will be buoyant (in the case of a 133/8" steel sleeving), with the water level in the sleeving corresponding to sea level, hence far lower, if the floating support is a semi-submersible platform with a considerable heightwise distance between the working bridge of the platform and the surface of the water. When the latter riser sleeving element is in place, the last riser element 24 (FIG. 4), 50 (FIG. 1) is connected, with the last riser element being provided with a orifice 37 allowing communication between the top of the annular space 48 and storage reservoirs located on the platform 54 via a hose 25 (FIG. 4 or 9), 68 (FIG. 1). The entire assembly is lowered again to the spider. The last short sleeving element 21 (FIG. 4) or 49 (FIG. 1) is fitted. The telescopic joining element 51 is then installed. Part of the joining element 51 immobilizes the upper short sleeving element 21 lengthwise and, by seals 26, provides the upper seal of the annular space which may now be entirely filled with sea water. The last part of the lowering of the riser is carried out conventionally. The tensioners or tensioning devices 55 are activated and the connection between the riser and the BOP 64 is effected. Hoses 23, 25 as well as the hoses of the other peripheral lines are reconnected. The liquid that is to occupy the annular space between the sleeving and the extension tube, if other than sea water (fuel, liquid syntactic foam, etc.) must be added at this point in time. This is accomplished by a pump 27 (FIG. 9) by injecting the liquid at the top of the annular space 48 through line 28. The sea water which previously occupied the annular space 48 rises through the conduit 12 and may be recovered in a tank 30 or be discharged to the sea through line 29 (FIG. 9). When the entire annular space 48 is filled with liquid, the line 29 will be closed and a valve 33 will be opened, and the buffer tank 31, preferably located at the level of the drilling floor, will be filled to the desired level. This buffer tank 31, known to the individual skilled in the art as "possum belly tank", will compensate for the variations in volume that may occur at any time during drilling, and will allow a constant pressure to be maintained at the upper part of the sleeving. The valve 32 will then be closed. It will not be a departure from the scope of the present invention to pressurize the annular space. This will allow the stresses in the tube and walls of the sleeving to be optimized. A drill string may be lowered inside the riser, through the sleeving, to the point above the BOP 64, the sea water contained in the sleeving may be displaced by mud, the BOP 64 may be re-opened and tested, and the 121/4" drilling may commence and continue normally. If necessary, the liquid in the annular space between the sleeving conduit and extension tube may be changed at any time. When the drilling operations are complete, the well is abandoned in a conventional manner when the last cement plug is set in place, the mud contained in the riser and the sleeving is replaced by sea water, and the fluid contained in the annular space 48 is recovered in the following manner. Sea water is pumped into the conduit 12 and, since valves 32, 33 and 36 are closed and valves 34 and 35 are open due to a set of valves the liquid can be returned to its storage reservoir. If the annular space 48 is filled with liquid syntactic foam with several different density levels, the liquids will be recovered one after the other from the lowest density to the highest density and each is placed in its storage reservoir by a set of valves. The riser, its sleeving, and the BOP 64 will then be raised by reversing the method used to lower them. FIG. 4A illustrates an alternative embodiment relating to the upper end of the upper short element 21 of the sleeving conduit. According to this alternative embodiment, seals 26A, retained by the upper element 21 of the sleeving conduit, cooperate with upper element 6A of the extension tube and not with part 22A of the telescopic connection elements. Seals 26A have the same functions as seals 26 in FIG. 4, namely, creating tightness of the annular zone 7 (FIG. 4) or 69 (FIG. 1) in their upper parts. FIG. 10 represents an alternative embodiment of the suspension device according to the present invention. According to this embodiment, supporting part 2a provides a resting support for the element of the sleeving conduit. The element 1a is located above the supporting 2a and has a support shoulder 1b and a male end 1c which cooperates with a female part 2b of the supporting part 2a. It will not be a departure from the present invention if the support system and stop, instead of being external to the sleeving conduit as shown in FIG. 10, are internal thereto. This can be accomplished by an internal shoulder le provided in the supporting part on which the lower end 1d will rest. Of course, this assumes that the sleeving conduit element 1a has no shoulder 1b. The upper end of the conduit element 1a cooperates with the supporting part above it in the same manner as the element 10a cooperates with the supporting part 2a. The upper male end of the element 10a cooperates with the element end 2c of the supporting part 2a. The upper male end of the element 10a is free to move axially in the supporting part 2a. FIG. 11 illustrates a supporting part 5a for supporting the lowest element 11a of the sleeving conduit, with the supporting part 5a being substantially identical to the sealing part 5 in FIG. 2. However, the supporting part 5a has a supporting surface 5b cooperable with a stop 11b integral with the lowermost element 11a. Supporting part 5a transmits the forces produced by the weight of the element 11a to the element 6 of the extension tube. In this embodiment, the upper element of the sleeving conduit may be identical to that of FIG. 4A, but without collar 21a, so as to allow free axial displacement of this element. Moreover, in this embodiment, the normal supporting parts have two ends and the normal sleeving conduit elements have two male ends each, with tightness between the various ends being produced by seals.
An assembly which includes an extension tube and a sleeving conduit disposed therein. The tube includes a number of components connected together. The sleeving conduit includes several components and the assembly includes a device for fitting each of the conduit components to a corresponding component of the tube. The assembly may be readily used in oil rigs at sea and/or petroleum exploration and exploitation at sea.
4
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates generally to cyclosiloxanes having at least one alkenyl substituent on a silicon atom as a bond layer with plastic substrates, articles comprised of same and a method of making such articles. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Plastics have found widespread use as a substrate material in numerous and diverse settings. Amongst other reasons, plastics are generally light weight, have high ductility and offer a high degree of visible light transmission. Certain plastics, such as polycarbonate (PC), have the added benefit of high impact strength. Applications for plastic substrates include but are not limited to automotive windows, headlamps and body panels, architectural windows, displays, solar cells and collectors, aircraft windows and canopies, and appliances. In most applications, the plastic substrate is provided with one or more functional coatings. For example, automotive windows require, at a minimum, both ultraviolet (UV) filtering coatings to protect them from exposure to sunlight, and abrasion resistant coatings to protect them from scratching. Additionally, automotive windows desirably have infra-red (IR) reflective coatings, transparent conductive coatings for heater grids, and/or electro chromic coatings. For displays, solar cells and dual-pane windows, barrier coatings to oxygen and water are important. While providing requisite functionality, coatings oftentimes have intrinsic characteristics that ultimately prove detrimental to the final layered article. For example, many coatings have modulus values and coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) that are significantly different than those of the underlying plastic substrate. This mismatch in properties can cause large strains in the coatings and at the layer interfaces during periods of thermal cycling and exposure to high humidity or water immersion. This in turn leads to delamination and/or cracking of the coatings. Several approaches to address this problem have been developed. One response has been to provide compliance between the substrate and the coatings by using a graded interface. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,927,704 discloses formation of a graded interface by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) to provide compliance. In this approach, vinyltrimethylsilane (VTMS) or hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) is used and the properties are gradually graded from that of the substrate to that of the coating. While helpful, this approach can only effectively be used in a slow deposition rate process. For low cost, high deposition rate processes that are commercially favored, this methodology is not economically practical. Another attempt to obtain compliance has been to use single bond layers. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,156,882 discloses the use of organosilicones of the general formula R 1 n SiZ (4-n) as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,224,378, and R 2 Si(OH) 3 as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,242,381. Included among specific compounds contemplated are hexamethyldisilazane (HMDZ), HMDSO, VTMS and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4). In U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,967 a laminate is disclosed where the first adhesion promoter layer is a plasma polymerized organosilicon polymer of dimethoxydimethylsilane (DMDMS), methyltrimethoxysilane, tetramethoxysilane, methyltriethoxysilane, diethoxydimethylsilane, methyltriethoxysilane, triethoxyvinylsilane, tetraethoxysilane, dimethoxymethlyphenylsilane, phenyltrimethoxysilane, 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, diethoxymethylphenylsilane, tris(2-methoxyethoxy)vinyl silane, phenyltriethoxysilane, dimethoxydiphenylsilane, tetramethyldisiloxane (TMDSO), HMDSO, HMDZ and tetramethylsilazane. Despite these endeavors, there is still a need for a bond layer that provides improved compliance thereby permitting more effective thermal cycling and hydrolytic stability. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention pertains to an article comprising a plastic substrate, and a bond layer on a surface of said plastic substrate, said bond layer comprising a plasma reacted cyclosiloxane, said cyclosiloxane having at least one C 2 to C 10 alkenyl group attached to a silicon atom; and a method for forming same. In one embodiment, the cyclosiloxane is heptamethyl(vinyl)tetrasiloxane. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Plastic Substrate: Without limitation plastic substrates include those comprised of thermoplastic polymers and thermoset polymers. The substrate, by way of exemplification only, typically comprises a polymer resin. For example, the substrate may comprise a polycarbonate. Polycarbonates suitable for forming the substrate are well-known in the art and generally comprise repeating units of the formula: where R 1 is a divalent aromatic radical of a dihydric phenol (e.g., a radical of 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propane, also known as bisphenol A) employed in the polymer producing reaction; or an organic polycarboxylic acid (e.g. terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid, hexahydrophthalic acid, adipic acid, sebacic acid, dodecanedioic acid, and the like). These polycarbonate resins are aromatic carbonate polymers which may be prepared by reacting one or more dihydric phenols with a carbonate precursor such a phosgene, a haloformate or a carbonate ester. One example of a polycarbonate which can be used as a plastic substrate in the present invention is LEXAN®, manufactured by General Electric Company. Aromatic carbonate polymers may be prepared by methods well known in the art as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,161,615; 3,220,973; 3,312,659; 3,312,660; 3,313,777; 3,666,614; 3,989,672; 4,200,681; 4,842,941; and 4,210,699. The plastic substrate may also comprise a polyestercarbonate which can be prepared by reacting a carbonate precursor, a dihydric phenol, and a dicarboxylic acid or ester forming derivative thereof. Polyestercarbonates are described, for example in, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,454,275; 5,510,448; 4,194,038; and 5,463,013. The plastic substrate may also comprise a thermoplastic or thermoset material. Examples of suitable thermoplastic materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinylacetate, polyvinylalcohol; polyvinylacetal, polymethacrylate ester, polyacrylic acids, polyether, polyester, polycarbonate, cellulous resin, polyacrylonitrile, polyamide, polyimide, polyvinylchloride, fluorine-containing resins and polysulfone. Examples of suitable thermoset materials include epoxy and urea melamine. Acrylic polymers, also well known in the art, are another material from which the plastic substrate may be formed. Acrylic polymers can be prepared from monomers such as methyl acrylate, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, methyl methacrylate, butyl methacrylate, cyclohexyl methacrylate, and the like. Substituted acrylates and methacrylates, such as hydroxethyl acrylate, hydroxybutyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexylacrylate, and n-butylacrylate may also be used. Polyesters may also be used to form the plastic substrate. Polyesters are well-known in the art, and may be prepared by the polyesterification of organic polycarboxylic acids (e.g., phthalic acid, hexahydrophthalic acid, adipic acid, maleic acid, terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid, sebacic acid, dodecanedioic acid, and the like) or their anhydrides with organic polyols containing primary or secondary hydroxyl groups (e.g. ethylene glycol, butylene glycol, neopentyl glycol, and cyclohexanedimethanol). Polyurethanes are another class of materials which can be used to form the plastic substrate. Polyurethanes are well-known in the art, and are generally prepared by the reaction of a polyisocyanate and a polyol. Examples of useful polyisocyanates include hexamethylene diisocyanate, toluene diisocyanate, isophorone diisocyanate, and biurets and triisocyanurates of these diisocyanates. Examples of useful polyols include low molecular weight aliphatic polyols, polyester polyls, polyether polyols, fatty alchohols, and the like. Examples of other materials from which the substrate may be formed include acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, VALOX® (polybutylenephthalate, available from General Electric Co.) XENOY® (a blend of LEXAN® and VALOX®, available from General Electric Co.) and the like. In the various embodiments of the invention, the substrate comprises a clear polymeric material, such as polycarbonate (PC) (sold under the trademark Lexan® by the General Electric Company), polyestercarbonate (PPC), polyethersulfone (PES) (sold under the trademark Radel® by Amoco), polyetherimide (PEI or polyimide) (sold under the trademark Ultem® by the General Electric Company) and acrylics. The plastic substrate can be formed in a conventional manner, for example by injection molding, extrusion, cold forming, vacuum forming, blow molding, compression molding, transfer molding, thermal forming, and the like. The article may be in any shape and need not be a finished article of commerce, that is, it may be sheet material or film which would be cut or sized or mechanically shaped into a finished article. The substrate may be transparent or not transparent. The substrate may be rigid or flexible. Blends of the foregoing materials with each other, and blends with additives such as fillers, plasticizers, tints, colors and the like are also contemplated. The preferred substrate is formed of polycarbonate. The term polycarbonate as used herein also intends blends of polycarbonate with other materials such as polyesters and impact modifiers. As appreciated by those in the art, the choice of plastic for the substrate and the thickness of the substrate itself is a function of the use setting for the article. Without limitation, the thickness of the substrate is typically not less than 0.05 mm; in other practices the thickness is about 4 mm to about 6 mm. Bond Layer: The bond layer (BL) is comprised of a plasma reacted cyclosiloxane wherein said cyclosiloxane has at least one C 2 to C 10 alkenyl group attached to a silicon atom. In one embodiment, the cyclosiloxane can be unsubstituted; in another embodiment it can be organo-substituted with one or more lower alkyl groups of C 1 , to C 3 , i.e. the cyclosiloxane can be substituted with one or more methyl, ethyl, propyl and/or isopropyl groups or combinations of same. In particular practices, the cyclosiloxane is configured as a cyclic trimer (or cyclotrisiloxane); a cyclic tetramer (or cyclotetrasiloxane); or a cyclic pentamer (or cyclopentasiloxane). At least one alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms is attached directly to a silicon atom of the cyclosiloxane. In a particular embodiment, only one such alkenyl group is so attached. For practices where the alkenyl group has 3 or more carbon atoms, the double bond can be located anywhere in the moiety. In another embodiment, the alkenyl group in this regard has a terminal carbon-carbon double bond. Examples of alkenyl groups include vinyl, allyl, hexenyl and the like. Without limitation, a particular cyclosiloxane contemplated by the invention has the structure: wherein each R is independently hydrogen, methyl or ethyl with the proviso that at least one R is a C 2 to C 10 alkenyl group, and n is an integer from 2 to 8. In one embodiment of this practice, at least one R is a C 2 to C 6 alkenyl group, and n is 3, 4 or 5. In another embodiment of this practice, each R is methyl with the proviso that only one R is a C 2 to C 6 alkenyl group, for example, vinyl, and n is 4. In an particular embodiment of the invention the cyclosiloxane is heptamethyl(vinyl)cyclotetrasiloxane (Vinyl-D4). The cyclosiloxane bond layer can be applied to the plastic substrate by plasma deposition methods known in the art, for example by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) as described e.g. in U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,032, by inductively coupled plasma (ICP), electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) and the like, or by expanding thermal plasma (ETP), especially in-line ETP as described in commonly-owned U.S. Pat. No. 6,397,776. The plastic substrate may be cleaned in known manners prior to the deposition of the cyclosiloxane, such as by being washed with alcohol solvents, e.g. ispropanol. The thickness of the bond layer depends upon the plastic substrate and the nature of the use setting for the article as aforesaid. Without limitation, use settings include those where the article is preferably a vehicle window, such as a car, truck, motorcycle, tractor, boat or airplane window. The substrate may also comprise a display screen, such as a television screen, LCD screen, computer monitor screen, a plasma display screen or a glare guard for a computer monitor. These screens also benefit from being coated with a UV absorption and IR reflective layers to prevent the screen from turning yellow and to prevent UV radiation and heat from damaging electronic components inside the display. The substrate may also comprise an electronic device substrate, such as a solar cell or a liquid crystal display (LCD) substrate. Without restriction, the bond layer in the ordinary course is no less than 10 nm thick. In various practices, the bond layer is about 20 nm to about 100 nm thick. For still other practices it is about 200 nm to about 500 nm thick. After the bond layer has been deposited by plasma reaction, other coatings may be applied on top of same as needed. For example, one or more UV absorption layers which are typically but need not be metal oxides, may be applied. By way of exemplification only, preferred metal oxides include zinc oxide (ZnO), doped zinc oxides such as indium doped zinc oxide (IZO) and aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ), cerium oxide (Ce 2 O 3 ) and the like as known in the art. Other coatings include transparent conducting coatings formed of materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO), tin oxide (SnO 2 ) and the like as known in the art. In yet another practice, one or more abrasion resistant coatings may optionally be employed, for example, such coatings may be applied over the UV absorbing layer. Abrasion resistant layers in this regard include those known in the art, e.g. those formed of plasma reacted and oxidized organosilicon materials such as D4, HMDSO, TMDSO and the like. IR reflective coatings may also be optionally employed. As known in the art, these include, without limitation, metals such as silver (Ag) and aluminum (Al), and IR reflective oxides such as e.g. ITO; and including multi-layer stacks such as, without limitation, TiO 2 /Ag/TiO 2 ; ZnO/Ag/ZnO; IZO/Ag/IzO; and AZO/Ag/AZO and their combinations. The invention is generally useful for any application requiring the use of coatings on plastic substrates. More specifically, it is useful as a bond layer for applications such as automotive windows, headlamps and body panels, architectural windows, displays, solar cells and collectors, aircraft windows and canopies, and appliances. The most specific application is automotive glazing. The following example is illustrative only and is not restrictive of scope. EXAMPLE Plasma reaction of heptamethyl(vinyl)cyclotetrasiloxane (vinyl-D4) onto polycarbonate (PC) substrates was used as a bond layer for UV filtering and abrasion resistant coatings to improve their resistance to thermal cycling and hydrolytic stability. All depositions were performed using an expanding thermal plasma (ETP) in an in-line configuration as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,397,776. A separate ETP was used for each of the layers. PC sheets were cleaned with isopropyl alcohol, rinsed, air dried, then baked overnight at 80° to 100° C. in vacuum. Substrates were loaded onto a rack in a load lock, pumped down to typically 1 mT then introduced into the in-line coater. The substrates were coated by translating past a series of ETPs. Typically, the first station was an infra-red (IR) heater to raise the surface temperature of the PC to the desired level prior to the bond layer deposition. For comparison, similar bond layers were formed using a variety of organosilicones, such as octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4), dimethyldimethoxysilane (DMDMS), vinyltrimethylsilane (VTMS) and tetramethyldisiloxane (TMDSO). The criteria for comparison was initial adhesion to the PC measured either by a cross hatch tape test (ASTM 1044 using a rating system with units of 1B to 5B) or a tensile pull test, adhesion after water immersion at 65° C. for 3 days (“WS adh”), and adhesion or cracking after 10 thermal cycles from −50 to 135° C. The performance of the coating as a bond layer was evaluated by repeating these tests on a 6-layer system consisting of the PC/BL/UV absorbing layer and 4 abrasion resistant layers. The UV absorbing layer was comprised of ZnO as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,032. The abrasion resistant layers were each made of plasma polymerized and oxidized D4. Table 1 compares the performance of these BL materials. Performance of the package is labeled “P-adh” and “P-WS adh” for initial adhesion and adhesion after water immersion. All of the materials studied provided good compliance to the stack during thermal cycling such that the 6-layer package passed the thermal cycle test with no loss of adhesion or cracking. The key differentiator was adhesion as initially deposited and after water immersion both as a stand alone coating and as a bond layer for the 6-layer structure. As shown in Table 1, V-D4 exhibited excellent adhesion initially and after water immersion both as a stand alone coating and as a bond layer for the 6-layer structure. For V-D4, a total of 34 samples were evaluated before and after water immersion. The mean adhesion and standard deviations were 3377 and 1617 initially and 2838 and 1243 after immersion showing no statistically significant deterioration after water immersion. The package also passed the cross hatch test (5B adhesion) after thermal cycling and water immersion. Several samples have also passed 6 days immersion. To further stress the bond layer, coatings of increasing thickness from 100 to 600 nm were applied to the PC. With V-D4, no difference in performance was observed. In comparison, D4 without the vinyl group had very low adhesion, which deteriorated after water immersion even for very thin coatings. Coatings of approximately 300 nm and greater failed water immersion. Packages with a thin D4 bond layer deteriorated during 3-day water immersion to typical values of 2–3B and several samples of 1B with spontaneous delamination. The performance of DMDMS was slightly better than D4 with improved initial adhesion, 1787 psia, but poor water soak performance, 316 psia. Package performance was typical of D4 with good initial adhesion but poor water soak performance, typical values being of 2–3B and several samples were 1B with spontaneous delamination. VTMS had good initial adhesions but also poor water soak performance. Most packages with VTMS bond layers, however, spontaneously delaminated during water immersion. TMDSO had poor initial adhesion and poor water immersion performance. An additional feature of the V-D4 bond layer is that no plasma treatment of the PC substrate is required, thus eliminating one process step and associated cost. Moreover, the practice of the present invention provides improved robustness to practice where oxygen is added to the plasma. For example, in practices heretofore, when additional oxygen was provided to the plasma using, e.g. D4 or DMDMS as hard layers, delamination occurred at thinner coating thicknesses, e.g. on the order of 300 nm. In contrast, the present invention, e.g. non-limitingly as embodied in the use of V-D4 as a bond layer, permits incorporation of about 0.2 liters per minute (LPM) to about 0.06 LPM of added oxygen to the plasma while maintaining adhesion even at the thicker coatings. e.g., 600 nm. TABLE 1 COMPARISON OF BOND LAYER MATERIALS Adhesion WS adh Max Thickness P-adh P-WS adh Material Psia, or B Psia, or B nm Psia, B Psia, B V-D4 3377 2838 >600 5B  5B D4 197 84 <300 5B 2–3B DMDMS 1878 316 <300 5B 2–3B VTMS 2000 5B <400 5B 1–2B TMDSO 300 4B — 5B  0B
An article of a plastic substrate and a bond layer of a plasma polymerized cyclosiloxane having select unsaturation and a method of forming same.
8
This application is a division, of application Ser. No. 08/262,007, filed Jun. 17, 1994, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,533,286. This invention relates to a luminous electric display unit of the inert gas-containing tube type and, more particularly, to such a display unit having an improved housing of simple and economical construction for supporting and protecting the lighting and electrical components of the sign. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Luminous electric signs of the inert gas-filled tube type have long been employed in commercial and business establishments to provide decoration and/or impart information. Typically, such signs are referred to as "neon signs" and may be hung or placed in various locations, such as storefront windows, to advertise a product, decorate, or provide message information. The tubular lighting elements of the sign may be conformed into an array of desired letters or decorative shapes, as in a glass tube-bending operation, and the array is supportably attached by suitable brackets or wires to a rigid open frame, to a support backing, or in some form of housing or box. In luminous signs of the neon tube type, it is desirable to protect the glass tubular lighting array from breakage, and to protect the various elements of the sign from collecting dust, foreign particles, and the like. In daylight conditions, it is often desirable that the lighted tubular array be backed by an opaque material for light containment and to provide solid background for better visibility of the sign. It is also known to provide luminous electric display units, typically called electric blackboards, wherein a fluorescent or photoconductive plate, such as an acrylic plastic board, is edge lighted by a light-emitting element to concentrate light in the board whereby hand written information placed thereon by suitable means, such as water-soluble erasable high-pigment crayons has a glow or brightness to display the information contained on the board. Luminous electric display units of the types described are disclosed in the following U.S. patents: ______________________________________U.S. Pat. No. 1,654,255 U.S. Pat. No. 2,082,523U.S. Pat. No. 2,763,948 U.S. Pat. No. 3,085,224U.S. Pat. No. 4,903,172______________________________________ BRIEF OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a luminous electric display unit of the inert gas-filled tube type having a support housing for the lighting array and electrical components of the unit which is of simplified and economical construction. It is another object to provide a luminous electric display unit which protects the lighting array and electrical elements of the unit against glass breakage and contamination by dust and foreign matter. It is a further object to provide a display unit having an improved support housing for the electrical and lighting elements of the unit to provide high visibility to the lighting elements. It is a more specific object, in one form of the invention, to provide a luminous electric display unit having an edge-lighted message board, and a back-lighted portion to display information apart from the edge-lighted message board. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above as well as other objects of the invention will become more apparent, and the invention will be better understood, from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, when taken together with the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a first embodiment of an electric luminous display unit of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a right side elevation view of the display unit of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the display unit of FIG. 1, with the glass tubing thereof removed to better show the grooves in and openings through the front face portion of the unit which receive and protect the tubing; FIGS. 4 and 5 are front and rear elevation views, respectively, of the glass tubing, only, of the luminous display unit of FIG. 1; FIG. 6 is a rear elevation view of the front face portion of the unit of FIG. 1, with the rear closure portion of the housing removed, showing electrical components and openings in the front face portion for receiving portions of the glass tubing therethrough; FIG. 7a is an enlarged, broken-away, sectional view of a groove portion of the unit shown in FIG. 1 taken generally along line VII--VII looking in the direction of the arrows thereof, and showing the position and mounting of the glass tubing in a groove of the display unit; FIG. 7b is a broken-away, sectional view of a groove portion of the unit, as in FIG. 7a, but showing alternate means for mounting the glass tubing in a groove of the display unit; FIG. 8 in an enlarged, sectional view of the display unit of FIG. 1, taken generally along lines VIII--VIII looking in the direction of the arrows thereof, and showing internal components of the unit; FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the electrical luminous display unit of the present invention; FIG. 10 is an enlarged, sectional view of the display unit of FIG. 9 taken generally along lines X--X and looking in the direction of the arrows; FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of the display unit of FIG. 9, with the front panel covering a compartment of the unit removed to show the interior thereof; and FIG. 12 is an enlarged, broken-away sectional view of a portion the unit of FIG. 11 taken along lines XII--XII and looking in the direction of the arrows thereof. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring now more particularly to the drawings, FIGS. 1-8 show, in the various views, one embodiment of the present invention. As seen, the electrical luminous display unit 10 includes a support housing 12 having a front face portion 14, and a rear closure portion 16, both formed of suitably rigid opaque plastic, such as a molded polystyrene resin. The front face portion 14 contains one or more elongated grooves 18, 20 for the receipt and protection of elongated glass tubing 22 for containing an inert gas, such as neon, which may be electrified to illuminate the tubing to convey visual information through transparent portions thereof. As shown, the visual information consists of block letters forming the word "OPEN" surrounded by a generally rectangular border of glass tubing. The glass tubing 22 for containing the inert gas is bent, as in a heat-shaping operation. In such shaping operation, a length of tubing, e.g., four feet, is suitably heated and bent in the shape of letters, e.g., OPEN. To separate and distinguish the letters, portions 22a of the length of tubing are bent to lie primarily in a plane separate from the plane of the letters of the message to be conveyed. These portions of tubing which are bent to lie in a separate plane, generally parallel to the plane of the letters, are called "transition" portions of the tubing. The transition portions 22a (FIGS. 4-6, and 8) are generally painted, or blacked out, to make them opaque and preclude passage of light therethrough. End portions of the inert gas-containing tubing 22 are connected to electrodes 24 (FIGS. 6 and 8) which are in turn connected by electric wiring 26 to a transformer 28 which conventionally converts energy from a power source (not shown), such as a 110 V electric power supply, to high voltage energy. The gas in the tubing is thus energized in conventional manner to illuminate the tubing and transmit light through the transparent portions thereof. As best seen in FIGS. 1, 7a, 7b, and 8, the portion of glass tubing 22 forming the visual information "OPEN" surrounded by the border tubing is received within and protected by grooves 18, 20 of generally semicircular cross-section which contain and surround a major portion of the glass tubing. The face portion 14 and grooves 18, 20 thus provide an opaque background for the illuminated tubing and concentrate the light emitted therefrom in a forward direction toward a viewer. Location of the tubing in the grooves also provides protection for the tubing. The tubing 22 is suitably mounted and retained in the grooves 18, 20 by suitable fastening means, such as a silicone adhesive 23 (FIG. 7a), thin copper attachment wires, or clips 25 (FIG. 7b) attached to the face portion 14 in the grooves 18, 20. To protect and hide the transition portions 22a of the glass tubing which lie in a plane behind the plane of the letters "OPEN" and inside the housing 12, portions of the grooves 18, 20 of the front face portion 14 of the unit 10 have elongated openings 18a, 20a therethrough (see FIGS. 3 and 6). These openings receive the transition portions 22a of the glass tubing therethrough for retention in the housing 12 of the unit, along with the electrical wiring 26, electrodes 24, and transformer 28 (see FIG. 8). The rigid molded front face of the unit may be attached to the rear face by suitable means, such as fastening screws 29 spaced about the periphery of the unit. If desired, for outdoor use of the display unit, the face of the unit may be further protected by a transparent cover 30 (FIG. 8). FIGS. 7a, 7b, and 8 more particularly show the location and an arrangement for support of the glass tubing 18, 20 in the grooves by suitable adhesive 23 (FIG. 7a) or spring clip 25 (FIG. 7b). As seen, the groves are so dimensioned as to receive the full diameter of the tubing therein, thus protecting the tubes while emitted light from the tubes is concentrated in a forward-facing direction for view by the human eye. Thus it can be seen that the display unit of FIGS. 1-8 provides a simplified, economical arrangement for supporting and protecting glass tubing and electrical components of a neon-type display sign, while providing improved visualization of the displayed information therefrom. FIGS. 9-12 show a modified form of illuminated display unit of the present invention wherein the unit is in the form of an edge-lighted, information board for illuminating hand written information or other indicia thereon. In this embodiment, the display unit 40 comprises a support housing 42 consisting of an opaque sheet of suitably rigid plastic, such as a molded polystyrene resin, which is shaped as a front face portion to provide a flat central surface for receipt and support of a light-transmitting board 44 of rigid material, such as an acrylic plastic, on which information may be written by hand or by the placement of suitable indicia. The board 44 may have an opaque paint on its back face to facilitate light transmission through its front face. As seen, surrounding the periphery of three sides of the rectangular board 44 and located in a continuous groove 46 in the peripheral portion of support housing 42 is an inert gas-containing glass tubing 48. As seen in FIGS. 10 and 12, the glass tubing 48 is received within peripheral groove 46 of the housing to lie approximately in the plane of the transparent display board 44 so as to provide edge lighting thereto, as well as to project border lighting of the board toward the viewer, while residing within the groove and below a peripheral rim 50 of housing 42 to be protected thereby. The tubing may be suitably supported in the groove, as by copper tie wires 52, and is spaced from the bottom of the grooves by spacer pads 54 of felt or the like. Alternatively, the tubing may be attached to the front face portion of the housing by adhesive or spring clip, as in the case of the tubing in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-8. Located in the upper peripheral edge portion of the housing 42 is an elongated compartment 56 (FIG. 11), a front panel 58 (FIG. 9) which is slidingly received in grooves 60 to enclose end portions 52 of the glass tubing 48, electrodes 64, wiring 66, and a transformer 68 (FIG. 10) which supplies power to the unit. As seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, the housing compartment 56 is divided by a midwall 70 on which is supported the transformer 68 and a portion of the rear of the housing compartment is enclosed by a removable backplate 72. As best seen in FIG. 12, the glass tubing 48 providing edge-lighting to the transparent display board 44 of the unit is recessed within the groove 46 with the rim 50 of the support housing providing additional protection for the tubing. Thus a continuous piece of glass tubing may be bent and shaped to not only provide edge-lighting and border lighting for the display board, but to back-light the front panel 58 of the compartment 56 on which more permanent visual information may be displayed, e.g., "SPECIALS", as seen. Thus it can be seen from the foregoing detailed description of the disclosed embodiments, the present invention provides an electrical illuminated display unit of simplified and economic construction in which the illuminated tubing and electrical components of the unit may be supportably maintained within grooves of a molded plastic support housing and wherein the grooves and housing provide tubing protection and an opaque background to concentrate light emitted therefrom in a forward direction for viewing by an observer.
An electric luminous display unit for conveying visual information including a housing comprising an opaque front face portion of substantially rigid molded plastic, an elongated groove in the front face portion of the housing, inert gas-containing glass tubing located in the groove and extending therealong, and electrical means located behind the front face portion of the housing and electrically connected to ends of the glass tubing for supplying electrical energy to illuminate the same. In one embodiment, an edge-lighted board is described for receiving written information thereon.
6
The invention described herein was made in the course of work supported in part by Public Health Service, Grant No. DAO4975 from the National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse. The Government has certain rights in this invention. This is a division of application Ser. No. 568,301, filed Aug. 16, 1990, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,091,391. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to a method for resisting damage to brain cells resulting from excess stimulation of the NMDA receptors thereof by glutamate and, more specifically, it relates to a method for accomplishing this in vivo without exposing the subject to meaningful untoward side effects. 2. Description of the Prior Art Neurodegenerative disorders such as stroke (ischemia), for example, may cause death or permanent impairment. Progressive nerve cell impairment may be caused by a number of means including ischemia, anoxia, trauma, and exposure to environmental or occupational neurotoxic agents. Nerve cells in the human brain communicate with each other through chemical signals. The excitatory chemical signal is effected by release of glutamate, which is an amino acid. The cells receiving these signals have receptors. With respect to glutamate, such cells have three main types of excitatory amino acid receptors. These are kainate, quisqualate, and N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA). Excess quantities of glutamate are potentially toxic to such nerve receptors and can damage the same. It has been found that in certain conditions such as ischemia, nerve cells die because of overstimulation by glutamate of the NMDA receptors. (These receptors are known as "NMDA receptors" as N-Methyl-D-Aspartate is a more effective agonist in this particular glutamate receptor at the other types of glutamate receptors). An analysis of the origin of ischemia-induced glutamate release from brain tissue is contained in Drejer, et al Journal of Neurochemistry, Vol. 45, Pages 145-151 (1985). In this situation, the glutamate is considered an agonist, i.e., a material that can directly activate a receptor. It has been known to use antagonists to counteract the effect of an agonist on a nerve cell receptor. In essence, the antagonists may be considered as binding to the receptor and displacing the agonist thereby resisting the undesired damage. See generally, co-pending United States patent application Ser. No. 395,396, filed Aug. 17, 1989 and Simon et al. Science 226:850-852 (1984), Gill et al J. Neuroscience 7: 3343-3349 (1987), Andine et al. Neuroscience Letter 90:208-212 (1988), Kochhar et al. Arch. Neurol. 45:148-153 (1988). It has previously been suggested that overstimulation of the NMDA receptors may cause nerve cell death in heart attack or stroke patients. See Barnes, Science Vol. 239 pp. 254-256 (1988). See also Hahn et al., Science USA, 85:6556 (1988). In respect of the abnormal activation of glutamate receptors specific for the synthetic analogue, NMDA has been indicated as contributing to progressive neurodegenerative disorders. See Choi et al., Neuron, Vol. 1, Pages 623-634 (1988); Choi et al., The Journal of Neuroscience, 7(2):Pages 357-368 (1985); and Choi et al. The Journal of Neuroscience 8(1):Pages 185-196 (1988). U.S. Pat. No. 4,806,543 discloses a method of reducing adverse effects of neurotoxic injury by administering an enantiomer of an analgesic opioid agonist or antagonist. The compounds are said to be useful for treatment of animal species having NMDA receptors. It has been suggested that selected antagonism of NMDA receptors can reduce hypoxic ischemic neuronal injury. See Steinberg et al., Stroke, Vol. 20., No. 9, Page 1247-1252 (1989). Co-pending United States patent application Ser. No. 395,396 discloses a class of simple amino acids which are derivatives of topa quinone, a potent glutamate agonist acting at non-NMDA (i.e., kainate or quisqualate) receptors. Topa quinone was found to be a good oxidizing agent acting at NMDA receptor redox modulatory sites. Topa quinone, however, is neurotoxic and it is highly unstable in solution. Among such suggested materials are magnesium (Nowack et al. Nature 307:462-564 (1984)); glycine (Johnson et al. Nature 325:529-531 (1987)); zinc (Westbrook et al. Nature 328:640-643 (1987)); (Peters et al. Science 236:589-593 (1987)); and polyamines, (Ransom et al. J. Neurochem. 51:830-836 (1988)). See also the reference to use of phencyclidine and ketamine, as well as 2-amino-7 phosphonohep tanoic acid (AP7) all suggested as NMDA receptor specific antagonists in Mayer et al. Tins Pages 59-61 (1987). It is also been suggested that the drug (+-5-methyl-10, 11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo [a,d]cyclohepten-5,10-imine maleate (MK-801) may provide neuroprotective effects in respect of the NMDA receptors. See Gill et al., Neuroscience, Vol. 25, No. 3, Pages 847-855 (1988). It is also been known that traumatic neuronal injury may contribute to neuronal degeneration which may be reduced by an NMDA antagonist. See Tecoma et al., Neuron, Vol. 2, Pages 1541-1545 (1989). Modulation of NMDA responses by reduction and oxidation as by using sulfhydryl redox reagents dithiothreitol (DTT) and 5-5-dithio-bis-2-nitrobenzoic acid (DTNB) NMDA responses has been considered in Aizenman et al. Neuron, Vol. 2, Pages 1257-1263 (1989). Regulation of NMDA function by reduction or oxidation is suggested. In spite of the recognition of the problem and efforts to employ means to block the consequences of abnormal activation of glutamate on NMDA, there remains a very real and substantial need for an improved method for both preventative measures and therapeutic measures so as to resist the adverse consequences of neurodegenerative disorders. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has met the above-described need by providing a method of resisting neurological damage caused by overstimulation of the NMDA receptor by glutamate. This is accomplished by exposing the receptors to an effective dosage of an oxidizing agent to decrease the activity of NMDA receptors activated by glutamate. This is preferably accomplished by using a material selected from the group consisting of pyrroloquinoline quinone and topa hydantoin. These materials serve to effect a change in the NMDA receptor through oxidation. The NMDA receptor is believed to contain one or more vicinal sulfhydryl groups which are exposed to the extracellular milieu. Oxidation of these sulfhydryl groups (i.e., conversion to a disulfide bond) decreases the overall state of activation of the NMDA receptor such that glutamate will still bind to the receptor, but the cellular response will be diminished. Pyrroloquinoline quinone and topa hydantoin can oxidize such sulfhydryl groups into a disulfide bond. The oxidation agent is selected so as to have an effective dosage while not being toxic to the subject in such dosage. It is an object of the present invention to provide an effective means of resisting neurological damage to neurons that may occur due to overstimulation of NMDA receptors resulting from neurological disorders. It is a further object of the present invention to administer NMDA receptor oxidation agents in high-risk individuals prior to their developing a stroke or other neurodegenerative disorder. It is further object of this invention to provide such a method which is safe to employ and effective even after the onset of attack on nerve cells as a result of such disorders. It is a further object of this invention to provide such a method which avoids undesired side effects, such as toxicity. These and other objects of the invention will be more fully understood from the following description. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS As used herein, "subject" means a member of the animal kingdom including human beings. As used herein, "neurodegenerative disorder" means a physical condition which has caused or may cause degradation of portion of a subject's nervous system, and shall expressly included, but not be limited to such conditions caused by trauma, a genetic predisposition, and other causes or diseases including, but not limited to stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amiotrophic lateral sclerosis, anoxia, and other similar diseases and epilepsy. As used herein "patient" means a member of the animal kingdom, including human beings who either has or is suspected of having a neurodegenerative disorder. The present invention contemplates a method of resisting neurological damage due to excessive production of glutamate by the brain and transmission of the same to the NMDA receptor of a central nervous system cell. The preferred method of the present invention involves administering a non-toxic effective dosage of an oxidizing agent to diminish NMDA receptor activation. The preferred material for use in this manner is pyrroloquinoline quinone (methoxatin) which is a bacterial redox coenzyme which may readily be synthesized in a manner well known to those skilled in the art. See generally, Gallop et al., Trends in Biochemical Sciences, 14:343-346, 1989, Pages 343-346. Kilgore, Science, Vol. 245, Pages 850-852 (1989) indicates that pyrroloquinoline quinone may be an important growth factor or vitamin. While this material has been recognized as providing certain nutritional benefits in rodents, it is not believed to have been suggested to be used as an oxidizing agent in minimizing neuronal damage via activation of the NMDA receptor in humans. It is currently believed that NMDA receptor oxidation which results from administering the pyrroloquinoline quinone material to a subject in accordance with this invention occurs through the conversion of vicinal sulfhydryl residue on the NMDA receptors extracellular surface to disulfide bonds. One of the advantages of pyrroloquinoline quinone is that it can be provided in therapeutically effective dosages without having meaningful undesired side effects such as toxicity. One of the problems with a number of other materials such as MK 801, for example, which have been attempted to be used to block NMDA reception of excess glutamate is they produce a large variety of undesirable side effects including toxicity and, as a result, cannot be used in human patients and, perhaps, are not suitable for the same reason for animal patients. Others involve a delicate balance between efficacy and toxicity and, as a result, are not suitable. With this material it is easy to maintain a desired therapeutic ratio, i.e., the ratio of amount of therapeutic activity to amount of toxicity. Another oxidizing agent usable in the method of the present invention is topa hydantoin which is a stable, non-toxic topa derivative. It will be appreciated, therefore, that the invention involves administering a non-toxic therapeutically effective dosage of a material selected from the group pyrroloquinoline quinone, and topa hydantoin. The oxidizing agent may preferably be administered orally although other a suitable means known to those skilled in the art may be employed. Depending upon the dosage form selected, suitable inert vehicles, buffering agents, binding agents, and the like, well known to those skilled in the art, may be employed. Those skilled in the art will know how to determine, by routine experimentation, the amount and frequency of administration of oxidizing agent necessary to provide sufficient resistance to neuronal damage via the NMDA receptor without employing a toxic level or potentially toxic level of the oxidizing agent. With respect to subjects who are not "patients" as defined herein, those at risk may be determined by routine screening to ascertain whether they have an abnormally high level of glutamate or related compounds in the central nervous system, and also those who have a genetic predisposition to the development of diseases, which have been linked to overstimulation of the NMDA receptors, e.g. Huntington's Disease. It will be appreciated, therefore, that not all oxidizing agents may be employed in the practice of this invention because some agents such as DTT and DTNB would tend to be too toxic to have any practical application. Other problems can make oxidizing agents unsuitable. For example, topa quinone although a good oxidizing agent is excitotoxic via non-NMDA receptor activation, it may not oxidize the NMDA receptors and is quite unstable as it breaks down in solution. The derivative, topa hydantoin, does not have this shortcoming. In order to confirm that pyrroloquinoline quinone was able to oxidize the NMDA receptor, both electrophysiological and toxicity tests were performed. EXAMPLE I In the electrophysiological tests, whole cell voltage-clamp recordings were performed on rat cortical neurons in vitro using the procedure set forth in Aizenman et al., Neuron, Vol. 2, Pages 1257-1263 (1989). It was observed that pyrroloquinoline quinone (5 micromolar) was able to initiate and at least partially effect reversal of the potentiating actions that two millimolar DTT had on NMDA induced currents. EXAMPLE II Toxicity assays were performed in accordance with Rosenberg et al., Neuroscience Letters, Vol. 103, Pages 162-168 (1989). A 5 minute exposure to 50 micromolar pyrroloquinoline quinone was sufficient to resist significant NMDA receptor mediated toxicity in rat cortical neurons in vitro. The pyrroloquinoline quinone was not toxic to neurons, even when present for a test period of 24 hours. It is believed that the action of pyrroloquinoline quinone on the NMDA receptor is probably mediated by oxidation of a redox modulatory site on the NMDA receptor. There is likely to be at least one pair of vicinal sulfhydryl groups on the extracellular surface of the NMDA receptor which form said redox modulatory site. It will be appreciated that the method of the present invention provides a safe and effective means for resisting neural damage via glutamate receptors specific for the synthetic analogue NMDA. All of this is accomplished in a safe, efficient manner which may use known oxidizing agents which are not neurotoxic. The oxidation reaction, unlike the drug blocking action, accomplishes this phenomenon in the following way. Glutamate may still bind to its receptor, but the activity of the receptor is diminished. A non-competitive blocker such as MK 801 may still bind effectively to its site of action after NMDA receptor oxidation. Therefore, the oxidation site (redox modulatory site) is distinct from the MK 801 binding site. The redox modulatory site used in the method of the present invention is also distinct from the other sites previously known to modify NMDA receptor function such as the glycine, zinc, magnesium and polyamine sites. Further, it will be appreciated that by diminishing the NMDA receptor activation during a stroke or other illness, the magnitude of the harm done can be diminished. While for convenience of reference herein, specific reference has been made frequently to stroke or ischemia, it will be appreciated that the invention is not so limited and that a wide variety of progressive neurodegenerative disorders and other neurodegenerative disorders may be treated beneficially or prevented by the method of the present invention. Whereas particular embodiments of the 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 may be made without departing from the invention as defined in the appended claims.
A method of resisting neurological damage caused by overstimulation of the NMDA receptor of nerve cells by glutamate includes exposing the NMDA receptors to an oxidizing agent to thereby diminish overall activity of the receptors following activation by glutamate. The oxidizing agent preferably is a material selected from the group consisting of pyrroloquinoline quinone and topa hydantoin.
0
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a disc player which is capable of playing both audio and video discs by means of a single pickup and more particularly to a disc player which is capable of placing accurately a plurality of spindle motors. In the prior art, no system has been proposed which can play both audio discs and video discs with a single pickup. Different player systems have been required for playing the two discs. More specifically, in a compact disc player (which will be referred to as "CD") or an optical type video disc player (which will be referred to as "LD"), a label indicating the content of the play has to be viewed by the operator (i.e., must be placed on the upwardly-facing disc side in case the disc is played in a horizontal position), while the signals should be read out from the lower side of the disc if automatic disc-loading or clamping operations are desired. However, in the compatible player which is capable of playing both kinds of discs (i.e., in which the center of rotation for playing the two discs is common and in which a common pickup is used), the clamping area of the LD and the read-in of the CD overlap, making it necessary to interchange the turntables. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to eliminate the aforementioned defects. According to the invention, there is provided a disc player which is characterized: in that a rotary driver for a video disc and a rotary driver for an audio disc are attached to a single holder; in that one of said rotary drivers is brought to a playing position by turning said holder; and in that a single pickup is disposed in said playing position, whereby the two discs are selectively played by said single pickup. The present invention provides as an object a disc player which can fix one of a plurality of spindle motors in a predetermined playing position with high accuracy. According to the present invention, there is provided a disc player comprising first drive means for driving a first turntable for a first kind of an information-recorded disc, second drive means for driving a second turntable for a second kind of an information-recorded disc, a single holder means for holding thereon said first and second drive means, holder drive means for driving said single holder means, pickup means for reproducing a signal from one of said first and second kinds of information-recorded disc when one of said discs is at a predetermined play position, and means for moving said single holder means and for locating said single holder means so that one of said first and second kinds of information-recorded disc is selectively positioned at said predetermined play position. According to the present invention, there is provided said first drive means having a spindle and a motor, said second drive means having a spindle and a motor, said holder drive means moving said holder means in a predetermined range, said disc player further comprising a pair of movable members provided near the endpoints of said predetermined range and means for biasing said movable members to move in opposite directions away from a center of said predetermined range. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In the accompanying drawings: FIG. 1 is a view showing a primary part of a first embodiment of a disc player; FIG. 2 is a top plan view showing a spindle motor interchanging device according to a second embodiment of the disc player of the present invention; and FIGS. 3, 4(A) and 4(B) are respective side views of the disc player shown in FIG. 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will now be described by way of example with reference first to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing an information-recorded disc player according to the present invention, in which reference numerals 101 and 102 indicate a video disc and an audio disc. Numeral 103 indicates a rotary driver for the video disc 101, which is constructed of a spindle motor 104 and a turntable 105. Numeral 106 indicates a rotary driver for the audio disc 102, which is constructed of a spindle motor 107 and a turntable 108. Incidentally, disc clamps are omitted from both the rotary drivers 103 and 106. Indicated at numeral 109 is a motor holder which has a shaft 109a protruding from the center thereof. This shaft 109a is rotatably borne by means of a bearing 110 and is connected through a reduction gear 111 to a turning motor 112. Moreover, the motor holder 109 has the rotary driver 103 of the video disc 101 mounted at one end and the rotary driver 106 of the audio disc 102 mounted at the other end. Furthermore, the motor holder 109 is bent at an angle θ and its shaft 109a is mounted at an angle so that one rotary driver 103 or 106 may be turned by 180° to the play position at the center of a decorative plate 113, from which the turntable 105 or 108 protrudes slightly. A pickup 114 is arranged in the aforementioned play position so that it can move radially of the two discs 101 and 102. If the two discs 101 and 102 are of the contactless optical type, the pickup 114 is an optical type, and if the discs 101 and 102 are of the electrostatic capacity type, it is an electrostatic capacity type. A cabinet 115 has a hood 116 hinged at 117 so that it can be opened and closed. A select button 118 is used to determine which of the rotary drivers 103 and 106 should be used. This select button 118 is set so that it can operate when the hood 116 is open. The operations of the aforementioned embodiment will be described as follows. At first, the hood 116 is opened, and the select button 118 is depressed. Then, the drive motor 112 rotates to transmit its turning force through the reduction gear 111 to the shaft 109a. Then, the motor holder 109 is turned by 180° on its shaft 109a so that the desired rotary driver 103 or 106 comes to the play position whereas the other rotary driver 103 or 106 comes below the decorative plate 113. Next, on the turntable 105 or 108 of the rotary driver 103 or 106, the video disc 101 or the audio disc 102 is loaded in the play position. After this, the hood 116 is closed to establish the play state, in which the pickup 114 runs from the innermost signal path to the outermost one of the video disc 101 or the audio disc 102 to read out the information signals recorded on the disc 101 or 102. Incidentally, the aforementioned embodiment is exemplified by the top-loading type but can be applied to a front-loading type. As means for selecting the two rotary drivers 103 and 106, the select button 118 is used, but an automatic detecting mechanism such as a light-receiving element may be used. The angle by which the motor holder 109 is turned need not be limited to 180°. The angle need only be such that one rotary driver 103 or 106 comes below the decorative plate 113 in the case of the top loading type. Similarly, the angle of inclination θ of the motor holder 109 may be suitably determined. In the embodiment shown, the motor holder 109 is turned at the fixed position, i.e., on its shaft 109a. However, one rotary driver 103 or 106 may be brought to the play position by turning the motor holder 109 once it is lowered and lifting it again. As has been described hereinbefore, according to the present invention, the rotary driver 103 for the video disc 101 and the rotary driver 106 for the audio disc 102 are attached to the single holder 109 such that one rotary driver 103 or 106 can be brought to the playing position by turning the holder 109, and the single pickup 114 is disposed in the playing position so that both the video disc 101 and the audio disc 102 can be selectively played. Since the two rotary drivers 103 and 106 and the single pickup 114 are integrated, the disc player can be small. FIGS. 2 to 4 show another embodiment of the invention having a mechanism in which motor mounting tables respectively having special spindle motors fixed thereon are swingable to change the motors. The spindle motors have to be positioned accurately, and neither vibration nor misalignment is allowed during an eccentric disc play (e.g., an unbalanced force of 1.5N is allowed for the LD standards). For this purpose, it is necessary to satisfy the following conditions: (1) The positionings must be simple to adjust and can enjoy reproducibility. (2) At the positioned points, the spindle motors must be fixed without looseness or backlash in their rocking and drive mechanisms. (3) Conditions (1) and (2) must be satisfied for both spindle motors. FIG. 2 is a top plan view showing a spindle motor interchanging device according to the embodiment of the invention. FIGS. 3, 4(A) and 4(B) are side views of the same, respectively. In FIGS. 3 and 4, an axis Z provides a predetermined position of the spindle motors. Indicated at numeral 2 is a motor mounting table which is so attached to a chassis 1 acting as a base that the motor mounting table 2 can rock or swing about a pin 3. In other words, the motor mounting table 2 has the shape of a circular sector which has its base portion hinged to the pin 3 fixed to the chassis 1. The motor mounting table 2 is formed with spindle motor mounting top faces 2a and 2b, on which are respectively fixed spindle motors 4a and 4b. On the chassis 1, there is mounted a drive motor 5. To this drive motor 5, there is attached a worm gear 6. The worm gear 6 meshes with the worm wheel 8a of a gear 8 which constitutes speed-reducing means together with the worm gear 6. The gear 8 is rotatably borne on a gear shaft 7. This gear shaft 7 is fixed to the chassis 1. The gear 8 is formed with a spur gear 8b, which is adapted to come into engagement with racks 12a and 12b as the motor mounting table 2 turns on the pin 3. An internal gear 9 is fixed on the side 2c of the motor mounting table 2. To each end of that side 2c one end of respective tension springs 10a and 10b is fixed. Thus, as the motor mounting table 2 turns about the pin 3, as described above, the spur gear portion 8b of the gear 8 comes into meshing engagement with the racks 12a and 12b which are biased outwardly by the action of the tension springs 10a and 10b and are made slidable along guides 11a and 11b. To the side 2c of the motor mounting table 2, adjusting screws 13a and 13b are attached. Onto these adjusting screws 13a and 13b are pressed the racks 12a and 12b which are biased by the tension springs 10a and 10b. To the side of the motor mounting table 2, there are attached drive motor stop switches 14a and 14b, and positioning pins 15a and 15b. These positioning pins 15a and 15b are adapted to abut against stops 16a and 16b, which are attached to the chassis 1, so that spindle motors 4a and 4b may be fixed in predetermined positions. The operation of the disc player having the construction according to the present invention as described thus far will now be explained. FIG. 3 shows the operational state in which the spindle motor 4a is fixed on the axis Z. First, when the drive motor 5 is actuated, the drive force of the motor 5 is transmitted to the worm gear 6, the gear 8 and the rack 12a so that the spindle motor mounting table 2 is turned on the pin 3 in the direction of arrow a. As is apparent from FIG. 4(A), moreover, if the tooth shape of the overlapped portions i of the racks 12a and 12b and the internal gear 9 are identically threaded by the adjusting screws 13a and 13b, the gear 8 meshes with the rack 12a, the internal gear 9 and the rack 12b in that order. If the motor mounting table 2 further turns in the direction of arrow a so that the positioning pin 15a abuts against the stop 16a, as shown in FIG. 4(A), the motor mounting table 2 is stopped so that the spindle motor 4b comes into alignment with the axis Z. Since the drive motor 5 continues to rotate, the rack 12b, which has been biased in the direction of arrow b in FIG. 4(B) by the tension spring 10b, is slid in the direction of arrow c in FIG. 4(B). When the drive motor stop switch 14b is depressed, the rotations of the drive motor 5 are stopped to interrupt the rack 12b. This is the state in which the motor mounting table 2 is forced to contact with the stop 16a by the tension of the tension spring 10b. Incidentally, the aforementioned embodiment is exemplified by the case in which the pin hinging the motor mounting table 2 rotates about the horizontal axis fixed horizontally at the chassis 1. However, the spindle motors may rotate on a vertical axis, move in a horizontal direction or reciprocate along other various paths. On the other hand, the driven gear is exemplified by the combination of the internal gear 9 and the racks 12a and 12b but a gear having another shape in accordance with the aforementioned paths may be used. In the aforementioned embodiment, furthermore, the drive motor 5 is mounted on the chassis 1 whereas the driven gear is attached to the motor mounting table 2 of the spindle motors, but this arrangement may be reversed. In the aforementioned embodiment, the gears are used as the driving power transmitting means, but friction wheels or plates may be used if the frictional forces are sufficient. In the aforementioned embodiment, two spindle motors are used, but three or more spindle motors may be used. According to the disc player of the present invention, as described above, the rack is divided into plural parts so that the spindle motors can be fixed at both ends of the paths of the reciprocal motions. Moreover, not only the back-lash of the gear but also the looseness due to the dimensional errors of the respective members can be absorbed, and the shocks when the positioning pins abut against the stops can be absorbed because the racks are mounted by means of the springs. As a result, the spindle motors can be replaced quickly. Further, even if the drive motor is stopped with the positioning pins being in reliable abutment against the stops, no load is applied to the motor and other members with the resultant effect that the positioning operations can be accurately conducted.
A disc player comprises a first driver for driving a first turntable for a first kind of an information-recorded disc, a second driver for driving a second turntable for a second kind of an information-recorded disc, a single holder for holding thereon the first and second drivers, holder drive means for driving the holder, and a pickup for reproducing signals from one of the first and second kinds of information-recorded discs at a predetermined play position, in which the single holder is moved so that one of the first and second kinds of information-recorded disc is selectively positioned at the predetermined play position.
6
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/423,093, filed Apr. 25, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,992,625 issue Jan. 31, 2006 entitled “CALIBRATION OF A DEVICE LOCATION MEASUREMENT SYSTEM THAT UTILIZES WIRELESS SIGNAL STRENGTHS” which is incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD This invention is related to IEEE 802.11 devices, and more specifically, to locating wireless devices using wireless signal strengths. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Knowledge of locations of users and devices inside a building is an important prerequisite for location-based services and aspects of ubiquitous computing. One promising approach to determining location is through triangulation by measuring IEEE 802.11 wireless signal strengths of wireless devices. One of the most attractive features of an IEEE 802.11 location-based system is that it does not require any extra infrastructure beyond a wireless network that already exists in many buildings. This is in contrast to other person-tracking systems that employ active/passive badges and cameras, which in turn require installation and maintenance of extra equipment. Using an 802.11 wireless client as a location sensor (e.g., a portable computer as a receiver) is becoming increasingly popular way of enabling location-based services. Triangulation of signal strengths from multiple access points (APs) may be used to pinpoint location of the receiving device down to a few meters. However, this level of accuracy comes at a price of requiring tedious and time-consuming manual labor in order to obtain spatially high-density calibration data of signal strengths as a function of location. Knowing radio signal strength measurements on a network client from a few different APs, researchers have shown how to compute location down to a few meters. This type of location measurement is especially attractive because it uses existing devices of a building and its users, and because it functions indoors where global positioning system (GPS) and cell phone location signals often break down. However, the accuracy of such systems usually depends on a meticulous calibration procedure that consists of physically moving a wireless client receiver to many disparate known locations, and different orientations, inside the building. It is often be impracticable to expect anyone to spend resources on such work—when presented with such prospect as part of a new product, software product planners often balk, complaining that system administrators are reluctant to even keep locations of printers updated, much less create and maintain a high-resolution table of IEEE 802.11 signal strengths. One alternative to manual calibration is to analytically predict signal strengths based on a floor plan of a building, physical simulation of radio frequency (RF) propagation, and knowledge of the locations of wireless access points. It was discovered, for the chosen simulation method, that physically simulating signal strengths increased median location error by approximately 46% (from 2.94 meters to 4.3 meters) over values obtained by manual calibration. Moreover, a good physical simulation usually requires a more detailed model of the building than is normally available. In the realm of IEEE 802.11 locations, one published work was based on the RADAR system, an in-building RF-based location and tracking system. RADAR worked based on a table of indoor locations and corresponding signal strengths. Using a manually calibrated table, the nearest neighbor algorithm gave a median spatial error of approximately 2.94 meters. Another table based on simulated radio wave propagation allowed the avoidance of most of the calibration work at the cost of increasing the median error to 4.3 meters. The RADAR work also looked at the problem of reducing calibration effort. It was found that reducing the number of calibration points from seventy to forty had only a small negative impact on accuracy. In follow-on work, RADAR was enhanced to use a Viterbi-like algorithm on short paths through the building. This further reduced the median error to approximately 2.37 meters. As part of Carnegie Mellon's Andrew system, a limited study of an IEEE 802.11 location system was performed using eight discrete locations in a hallway. A table of signal strength versus location was built. It was determined that upon returning to the eight locations, the system inferred the right location 87.5% of the time. Another location service used signal-to-noise ratios, instead of the more commonly used raw signal strengths. The location algorithm was a Bayesian network, manually trained at discrete locations in two buildings. The Bayes formulation allowed the inclusion of a priori probabilities of a person's location, as well as transition probabilities between locations. In one test on twelve locations in a hallway, the service was capable of identifying the highest probability to the correct location 97% of the time, not counting the 15% of the time it was inconclusive. In still another study, IEEE 802.11 was used to compute the location of wireless PocketPCs, both indoors and outdoors. Instead of manual calibration, a formula was used that approximated the distance to a wireless access point as a function of signal strength. Using a hill-climbing algorithm, the system computes location down to about ten meters (approximately thirty-five feet) using signal strengths from multiple access points. In yet another study of an IEEE 802.11 location system, Bayesian reasoning and a hidden Markov model were used. Not only were signal strengths taken into account, but also the probability of seeing an access point from a given location. Like other work, it was based upon a manual calibration. The system explicitly modeled orientation and achieved a median spatial error of approximately one meter using calibration samples taken approximately every 1.5 meters in hallways. Although in terms of accuracy, this may be perhaps the best result, the study also acknowledges the problem of calibration effort, and suggests that calibrated locations could be automatically inferred by outfitting the calibrator with an accelerometer and magnetic compass. Some of the conventional systems described hereinabove are explicitly working toward more accuracy, but at the expense of increased calibration effort. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. The present invention disclosed and claimed herein, in one aspect thereof, comprises an IEEE 802.11 location-based technique for coarsely calibrating a system used to determine a precise triangulated location in view of radio signal strengths at a given location. The calibration technique is based upon a regression function that produces adequately accurate location information as a function of signal strength regardless of gaps in the calibration data or minimally available data. Since rooms are a natural spatial fiducials in buildings, and assuming that manual calibration is the principal method for some time, the architecture of the present invention discloses a new IEEE 802.11 location system based upon a relatively easy calibration procedure of recording signal strengths down to room resolution (e.g., from an arbitrary point or set of points in each room of the building or from a more precise location within each room). The disclosed location algorithm is designed to work in spite of missing calibration data, that is, data that is unobtainable because a room, set of rooms, or even a building wing, may be inaccessible. The regression algorithm takes a set of signal strengths from known locations in a building and generates a function that maps signal strength to (x,y) location. This function may then be used to estimate new location(s). Radial basis functions, which are simple to express and compute, are used for regression. The fact that the algorithm regresses on signal strength to provide location makes it possible to skip rooms during calibration, yet still evaluate locations in those rooms. This is more difficult with most conventional IEEE 802.11 location algorithms that instead must classify signal strengths into only previously seen locations. Although accuracy goes down with reduced calibration data, it goes down surprisingly little. The results quantify the tradeoff between accuracy and effort, and suggest a prescription for manually calibrating systems of this type. One embodiment provides a more precise location measurement methodology, where calibration is accomplished by placing the receiver at one point at the location to be measured, and measuring signal properties based upon that single receiver location. The user selects the approximate location of the receiver on a map that shows the position of the receiver relative to the location to be measured. Additionally, an averaging function is provided that averages the last ten computed (x,y) locations to further reduce noise. In a second embodiment that is less precise, the user moves the receiver around at the location, e.g., in the room, while taking measurements at several calibration points. Thus the exact location of the receiver is not known. For purposes of calibration, the location of the receiver is taken as the (x,y) centroid of the room, no matter where in the room the receiver was located when the measurements were made. To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the invention are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the invention may be employed and the present invention is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features of the invention may become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates the geometry of the calibration procedure for a system that determines new location(s) based on signal characteristics. FIG. 2 illustrates a flow chart of the general calibration process of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates a flow chart of a process for determining new location information. FIG. 4 illustrates a more detailed flow chart of the process for determining the mapping from signal strengths to (x,y) location in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 5 illustrates a layout of a typical office floor of rooms utilized for a sample application of the calibration process of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary screenshot of a graphical user interface for facilitating signal strength logging of the calibration data. FIG. 7 illustrates a block diagram of a computer operable to execute the disclosed architecture. FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an exemplary computing environment in accordance with the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It may be evident, however, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the present invention. As used in this application, the terms “component” and “system” are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a server and the server can be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers. As used herein, the term “inference” refers generally to the process of reasoning about or inferring states of the system, environment, and/or user from a set of observations as captured via events and/or data. Inference can be employed to identify a specific context or action, or can generate a probability distribution over states, for example. The inference can be probabilistic—that is, the computation of a probability distribution over states of interest based on a consideration of data and events. Inference can also refer to techniques employed for composing higher-level events from a set of events and/or data. Such inference results in the construction of new events or actions from a set of observed events and/or stored event data, whether or not the events are correlated in close temporal proximity, and whether the events and data come from one or several event and data sources. The disclosed calibration architecture supports the premise that calibration efforts can be significantly reduced with only a minor reduction in spatial accuracy. This effectively diminishes one of the most daunting practical barriers to wider adoption of an IEEE 802.11 location-based measurement technique. Referring now to FIG. 1 , there is illustrated geometry of the calibration procedure for a system of the present invention that determines new location(s) based on signal characteristics. These new location(s) are expected to be within a region 100 . Region 100 may be a building, a floor of a building, or any other region that has coverage by one or more transmitters 110 . The transmitters 110 may be located internal and external to the region 100 . In order for the location system to be able to determine at least an (x,y) location, there must be at least three transmitters 110 whose signal characteristics can be measured in the region 100 . These transmitters 110 may be, but are not required to be, for example, access point (AP) transceivers disposed on a network. However, for purposes of this description, the phrase “transmitting device” and the term “transmitter(s)” should be understood to include any device that may or may not be disposed on a network and that transmits a signal. Region 100 is divided into sections 120 , which sections 120 may include, for example, rooms, hallways, or lounges in a building, and thus may be of variable size. Alternatively, the sections 120 may be particular locations within rooms. The transmitters 110 are not necessarily located in the sections 120 . Furthermore, there can be additional areas of region 100 that are not divided into sections 120 . The sections 120 may contain one or more calibration points 130 . During calibration, a receiver 140 is placed sequentially at every calibration point 130 . For each calibration point 130 , one or more signal characteristics of every receivable transmitter 110 are recorded. In one embodiment, the transmitters 110 are transceivers that are compliant with an IEEE 802.11 standard and the signal characteristics are the signal strengths of the transmitters 110 , measured at the calibration point 130 . Also, for each calibration point 130 , the identity of the corresponding section 120 is recorded. The identity of the corresponding section 120 can be indicated, for example, by a user selecting a section from a map. The spatial location of all sections 120 are also required for calibration. These spatial locations can be the centroid of the spatial extent of each section 120 . In another embodiment, there is only one calibration point 130 for each section 120 . The calibration point 130 is located at a known location inside each section 120 . The signal characteristics are then measured multiple times, while the receiver 140 is rotated in place at the single calibration point 130 . The spatial location of section 120 is taken to be the spatial location of the calibration point 130 . In yet another embodiment, there are multiple calibration points 130 for each section 120 . These calibration points 130 are chosen to be scattered throughout the section 120 . The signal characteristics may be measured one or more times for each calibration point 130 . The spatial location of section 120 is taken to be the centroid of the section 120 . With any of the embodiments, the signal characteristics are measured by receiver 140 at all calibration points 130 and the spatial locations from all sections 120 are gathered, at act 150 . Regression is then performed upon this data, at act 160 . Regression operates on the gathered data to produce a regression function, as indicated at an act 170 , which can be used subsequently to estimate new location(s) throughout the region 100 based on newly measured signal characteristics. These new location(s) are not constrained to lie on the calibration points 130 . Indeed, they are not even constrained to lie within sections 120 ; they can occur at locations that are inaccessible at the time of calibration. Referring now to FIG. 2 , there is illustrated a flow diagram of a general calibration process in accordance with the present invention. While, for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the methodology of FIG. 2 , and any subsequent methodologies in, e.g., the form of flow charts, are shown and described herein as a series of acts, it is to be understood and appreciated that the present invention is not limited by the order of acts, as some acts may, in accordance with the present invention, occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other acts from that shown and described herein. For example, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that a methodology could alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram. Moreover, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement a methodology in accordance with the present invention. At 200 , the receiver is brought to a calibration point 130 . At 202 , the spatial location of the receiver is then recorded. Note that recording of the spatial location information need not be performed at each calibration point, but may be recorded only once during calibration of a section 120 . The receiver then measures and records signal strengths of one or more transmitters of the location, as indicated at 204 . At 206 , if the signal strengths at more calibration points 130 must be measured, flow returns to 200 to bring the receiver to that next calibration point 130 , and continue the measurement and recording process for that calibration point 130 . If no other calibration point 130 must be measured, flow proceeds from 206 to 208 , to create a regression function. This regression function is trained via regression. The training set comprises the signal strengths measured at calibration points 130 and the spatial locations of sections 120 . The regression function is then determined that provides position in (x,y) coordinates as a function of signal strengths over the entire region 100 . Alternatively, the regression function may provide (x,y,z) coordinates, if the region 100 extends over multiple floors of a building. Referring now to FIG. 3 there is illustrated a flow diagram of a process for determining new location(s). At 300 , a receiver is brought to a general area of the new location. This location may be one that was previously visited or a location that is being visited for the first time. Signal strengths are then measured and recorded, as indicated at 302 . The signals may be received from any transmitters associated with region 100 . At 304 , the regression function is employed to estimate new location(s) within region 100 , based on the signal strengths measured by the receiver at 302 . The process then reaches a Stop block. The Algorithm Referring now to FIG. 4 , there is illustrated a more detailed flow diagram of the process for determining mapping from signal strengths to (x,y) location in accordance with the present invention. At 400 , signal strength vectors from every section 120 are clustered into K clusters. At 402 , all signal strength vectors are separated into a training set and a test set of vectors. At 404 , an untried value of sigma (σ) is chosen. At 406 , a kernel matrix is created from the training set. At 408 , the linear system is solved for coefficients of alpha (α) and beta (β). At 410 , the values of sigma (σ), alpha (α), and beta (β) are saved. At 412 , sigma (σ), alpha (α), and beta (β) are evaluated on the test set utilizing Equations (2) and (3). At 414 , it is determined if the last sigma (σ) has been reached. If NO, flow proceeds back to the input of 404 to choose another untried sigma (σ). If YES, flow is to 416 to save the best sigma (σ), alpha (α), and beta (β). Following is a detailed description of the algorithm and associated equations. In order to facilitate understanding of the mathematics discussed infra, each set of calibration signal strength readings is designated with a vector s i , where i indexes over substantially all calibration vectors in substantially all the room locations. Each calibration vector has a corresponding (x i ,y i ) giving the location from which it was taken. This may be the centroid of the spatial extent of section 120 or wherever the receiver is placed. Each signal strength vector s i has a plurality of elements, one element for each transmitter receivable in region 100 . The elements in s i corresponding to transmitters that were not sensed at the calibration point 130 were given a value of one less than the minimum signal strength seen for the whole experiment. The signal strengths are returned from a WRAPI (Wireless Research Application Programming Interface) library as integers in units of dBm, where dBm=10 log 10 (milliwatts). Many conventional IEEE 802.11-based location studies have formulated the task of location measurement as a classification problem, where the goal is to classify the signal strength vector into a discrete set of locations. This includes the probabilistic formulations where the classification result is given as a set of probabilities over all the possible locations. However, the classification formulation is unsuitable for a goal of completely skipping certain rooms during the calibration phase. If a trained classifier has never seen a certain room, it will not ever classify data as coming from that room. Instead, the present invention uses regression to form the regression function that maps signal strength vector(s) into locations. Thus, the present invention can map a signal strength vector into a new location that has never been calibrated. If classification (rather than regression) is still desired, a post-processing check can be made to determine which room, if any, contains the estimated location. Following is a description of how the signal strengths measured in accordance with the embodiments of FIG. 1 are used to generate the regression function that gives location as a function of the signal strength vector, after which the number of calibration vectors is reduced in a principled way to see how reducing the amount of calibration data affects the accuracy of location measurement. Regression fits a function to the calibration vectors s i and the corresponding room coordinates (x i ,y i ). The present invention utilizes kernel regression, which estimates new location(s) via the formula x ⁡ ( s ) = c x + ∑ j = 0 M - 1 ⁢ α j ⁢ K ⁡ (  s - s j *  ) , and ⁢ ⁢ y ⁡ ( s ) = c y + ∑ j = 0 M - 1 ⁢ β j ⁢ K ⁡ (  s - s j *  ) ; ( 1 ) where K(r) is a chosen kernel function, s j * are the chosen kernel function centers, and α j and β j are the computed weights based on calibration data. The Euclidean distance r between an observed signal strength vector s and a stored signal strength vector s j * is shown by ∥s−s j * ∥. The offset (c x ,c y ) can be computed in a number of ways, as is known in the art of machine learning. In one embodiment, the offset is simply the centroid of the training data, i.e., ( c x , c y ) = 1 N ⁢ ( ∑ i = 0 N - 1 ⁢ x i , ∑ i = 0 N - 1 ⁢ y i ) ; ( 2 ) where N is the number of calibration vectors (in the application provided herein, the number is 28,114). In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the kernel function is chosen to be an isotropic Gaussian kernel function: K ⁡ ( r ) = exp ⁡ ( - r 2 2 ⁢ σ 2 ) . ( 3 ) where σ is the radius, and r is the Euclidean distance ∥s−s j * ∥. This choice of kernel function also requires a choice of scale parameter sigma (σ), which is described below. Additionally, the choice of the M kernel centers s j * is also described below. The present invention uses a least-squares fit to compute the weights α j and β j based on the calibration data. To compute the α j (for the x coordinate), the squared error is minimized between the calibration data and x(s i ), which is, err = ∑ i = 0 N - 1 ⁢ ( x i - c x - ∑ j = 0 M - 1 ⁢ α j ⁢ K ij ) 2 , ( 4 ) where K ij =K(∥s i −s j * ∥). Minimizing with respect to α j gives a linear equation that can be solved for the vector a=(α 0 , α 1 , . . . , α M-2 , α M-1 ) T : K T Ka=K T x  (5) Here K is an N×M matrix of K ij , and x=(x 0 −c x , x 1 −c x , . . . , x N−2 −c x , x N−1 −c x ) T . Analogously, β j is obtained from K T Kβ=K T y. Note that K T K has size M×M, where M is a chosen number of stored signal strength vectors. K T K is a kernel matrix. One possible choice is to let each calibration point s i serve as a stored signal strength vectors, giving M=N. Solving Equation (5) with M larger than 27,000 (as is used in the embodiment of FIG. 1 ) would be extremely computationally intensive. In addition, the regression function produced when M=N may not smoothly generalize between calibration points 130 . Instead, the signal strength calibration vectors were clustered in each location, and the cluster centers were used as kernel centers. Using a standard k-means algorithm, computing k=5 signal strength clusters in each room, results in less than 700 kernel centers to represent all 118 rooms on the test floor. If the uncertainty of the location of calibration points 130 is known, each term in Equation (4) may be weighted by the inverse of the variance of the uncertainty for its corresponding calibration point. In the art, this is known as heteroscedastic regression. The only remaining choice was for the scale parameter σ. A simple linear search was performed over possible values of σ. For each candidate σ, the weights a and β were computed first using 70% of the calibration data. The candidates were evaluated using the remaining disjoint 30%. The system picked the σ that gave the least rms distance error in (x,y). In spite of the 70/30 split for computing σ, 100% of the calibration data was used to cluster for the kernel centers. As previously indicated, an optional step is to average together the results of the last several locations to reduce noise. The last ten (x,y) results were averaged together. As mentioned previously, a second set of test vectors were taken a few days separated from the training data. Using the embodiment where one calibration point 130 is taken per section 120 , the second set numbered 25,457 readings to serve as test data. When testing this data, the kernel regression method yielded an rms error of approximately 3.75 meters. Computation of the rms error is known in the art, and thus not shown here. APPLICATION EXAMPLES As indicated above, the location algorithm of the present invention works based on regression of signal strength training data taken from known room locations. Referring now to FIG. 5 , there is illustrated a layout of a typical office floor 500 of rooms 502 utilized for a sample application of the calibration process of the present invention. The floor 500 includes 132 rooms 502 of which 118 were accessible. The area of the floor 500 is approximately 2,680 square meters. The floor was taken to be region 100 . The building maps of the floors were extracted both as polygon representations and bitmaps. The coordinates of all maps were expressed in actual floor coordinates in meters. The algorithm was evaluated on the one floor 500 with the 118 different rooms. To study the problem of calibration effort, the amount of calibration data was reduced as if less time was spent in each room and as if certain rooms had been skipped. The 118 rooms were split into 137 sections, since in larger rooms, e.g., conference rooms, more receiver locations were used. The receiver locations were noted by making the location selection utilizing the map via the interface of FIG. 6 , described hereinbelow. The results indicated a calibration location for every 19.5 square meters. For calibration, each accessible section was entered with a wirelessly connected receiver, e.g., the portable PC, running the logging program. The logging program used the WRAPI interface to obtain signal strengths from all the visible IEEE 802.11 transmitters. The receiver measured signals for approximately sixty seconds in each location. Additionally, the receiver was oriented in a number of different ways to factor out orientation effects. A scan rate of 3.4 Hz was used providing approximately 200 scans for each location. Each scan yielded the set of signal strengths and the MAC (Media Access Controller) addresses of the wireless access points. On average, the wireless communication interface could “see” 3.9 AP's at any given time. As previously indicated, the first set of signal strength readings numbered 27,796, and the second set, taken a few days later to serve as test data, numbered 25,457. As a way of reducing noise and increasing accuracy, a running average filter was applied to the computed location vectors. The filter was ten samples long, which induced a delay of approximately 2.9 seconds at the scan rate of 3.4 Hz. To test the effect of reduced time, the first s seconds of calibration data were processed with the same training algorithm, and then tested with the entire test set. Accuracy does not suffer significantly even when the time spent in each location is only ten seconds. At ten seconds, the rms error had only increased by approximately 12% (or 0.45 meters) from the rms error at sixty seconds. At a data rate of 3.4 Hz, ten seconds of data yielded only thirty-four signal strength vectors. This indicates that it is not necessary to spend much time at each location during calibration. The effect of reducing the number of calibration locations from the original full set of 137 locations down to 10% of the original was tested. To choose k locations from the original calibration set, a k-means clustering algorithm was run on the original locations to make k clusters. The k original locations nearest the k cluster centroids were chosen as those for calibration. As determined, the rms error grows as the number of locations decreases. However, even at 50%, the rms error has only grown by 20% (0.74 meters), and at 20%, has grown by 42% (1.59 meters). At 10% of the original locations, the rms error is 9.19 meters, which is an increase of 145% (5.44 meters) over the best result at 100%. Therefore, this shows that there is a significantly diminishing return for moving to a denser set of calibration points. This experiment also suggests a way to choose calibration points in a space by starting with a dense set, for example, at the centroid of every room, and use k-means to cluster the set into a representative sub-sample. Furthermore, both the time spent at each location and the number of locations can be significantly reduced with only a minor degradation in accuracy. For example, spending thirty seconds in 40% of the locations increases the rms error by only approximately 21% (from 3.75 meters to 4.55 meters), yet reduces the calibration effort by much more than half. Referring now to FIG. 6 , there is illustrated an exemplary screenshot of a graphical user interface (GUI) 600 for facilitating signal strength logging of the calibration data. The GUI 600 facilitates the display of a floor graphical representation 602 of the floor 500 , and rooms thereof. The user indicates the location of the receiver by selecting a room from the floor representation 602 via a mouse, keyboard, or other conventional input device. Additionally, there is presented a signal strength subwindow 604 for presenting a signal strength indicator plot 605 that displays a representation of the measured signal strengths from nearby transmitters. For example, a first bar 606 includes a first color or fill pattern that indicates the signal was received from a transmitter on the current floor being calibrated. Associated with the bar 606 is data 608 that indicates the signal strength data, the floor on which the room is located, and the room number of the transmitter (i.e., 113/3/3327). In this particular example, the transmitter was in building number (113), room number 3327 (also denoted graphically at 610 ) of the third floor (3). A second bar identification 612 may be used to indicate measurements received from transmitters on floors other than the current floor being calibrated. The bar 612 is associated with room 113/4/4327, which is a room 4327 on the fourth floor of building 113. It is to be appreciated that the GUI can be programmed to provide a wide variety of graphical responses to measure signals, including flashing bars, and text, audio output signals, etc., commonly available for providing such interface features. The interface 600 also includes a Location Input subwindow 614 that allows the user to zoom in on a floor map via a Map Zoom subwindow, and choose a floor for calibration via a Floor Chooser subwindow. The interface 600 further includes a Scan Control subwindow 616 for selecting the scan rate (in Hertz) for signal detection. The user can also direct logging of the data to a location on the receiving device via a Logging path field 618 . The user may also select a remote network storage location by entering the corresponding network path in the path filed 618 . Once entered, all data is automatically stored in the designated file location. At first glance, an rms error of approximately 3.75 meters for the location system seems much worse than previous conventional studies obtaining a median error of approximately 2.94 meters in a first conventional experiment or approximately one meter for a second conventional experiment. However, both of these conventional systems required much more calibration effort. The first conventional experiment covered hallway outside of about fifty-four rooms with seventy calibration points. The second conventional experiment covered the hallway with calibration points approximately 1.5 meters (five feet) apart. In contrast, the disclosed examples used one calibration point per room on rooms with an average center-to-center spacing of approximately 2.85 meters. The other efforts also took much more care in making sure the locations of the calibration points were known. While the above first and second conventional experiments show what is achievable with a careful calibration, the disclosed methodology illustrates what is achievable with a practical one. One barrier to deploying an IEEE 802.11-based location system is the calibration effort. In the disclosed example, approximately four hours were spent calibrating 118 rooms on one floor of the building. It is desirable to know if this amount of calibration is really necessary. In particular, it is desirable to evaluate the effect of reducing the time spent in each room and reducing the number of rooms visited. By training on subsets of the original training data, the effects of reducing the time and number of rooms was simulated. In summary, calibration for IEEE 802.11-based location can be very tedious. In the disclosed application example, one floor of an office building was calibrated down to room resolution, which approximates what could be expected for a large-scale deployment of an IEEE 802.11 location system. Using radial basis functions to interpolate location as a function of signal strength, an rms error of approximately 3.75 meters was achieved on rooms whose mean spacing was approximately 3.27 meters. By formulating the problem as one of interpolation, it is possible to make the calibration process easier by skipping a significant fraction of the rooms. Additionally, it is unnecessary to spend much time in each room, as more time beyond a short minimum does not improve accuracy very much. In an alternative implementation, instead of measuring the strength of multiple transmitters from a single receiver at various calibration locations, the disclosed invention is equally applicable to determining the location of a transmitter by fixing a number of receivers at known locations and measuring the strength of a single transmitter at various calibration locations. The latter would be applicable to the case where the transmitter is a source of audio (e.g., a human), while the receiver is a set of audio microphones. In a further alternative embodiment, calibration and regression need not operate on signal strength. Various signal properties can be used, such as phase, autocorrelation, or spectrum. Regression can apply equally well to these alternative signal properties, even if each property itself is not a scalar. The input to a kernel regression system would then consist of a vector that comprises multiple vectors of signal properties, appended together. Referring now to FIG. 7 , there is illustrated a block diagram of a computer operable to execute the disclosed architecture. In order to provide additional context for various aspects of the present invention, FIG. 7 and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment 700 in which the various aspects of the present invention may be implemented. While the invention has been described above in the general context of computer-executable instructions that may run on one or more computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention also may be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the inventive methods may be practiced with other computer system configurations, including single-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which may be operatively coupled to one or more associated devices. The illustrated aspects of the invention may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where certain tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices. With reference again to FIG. 7 , there is illustrated an exemplary environment 700 for implementing various aspects of the invention includes a computer 702 , the computer 702 including a processing unit 704 , a system memory 706 and a system bus 708 . The system bus 708 couples system components including, but not limited to the system memory 706 to the processing unit 704 . The processing unit 704 may be any of various commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multi-processor architectures also can be employed as the processing unit 704 . The system bus 708 can be any of several types of bus structure including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus and a local bus using any of a variety of commercially available bus architectures. The system memory 706 includes read only memory (ROM) 710 and random access memory (RAM) 712 . A basic input/output system (BIOS), containing the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computer 702 , such as during start-up, is stored in the ROM 710 . The computer 702 further includes a hard disk drive 714 , a magnetic disk drive 716 , (e.g., to read from or write to a removable disk 718 ) and an optical disk drive 720 , (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk 722 or to read from or write to other optical media). The hard disk drive 714 , magnetic disk drive 716 and optical disk drive 720 can be connected to the system bus 708 by a hard disk drive interface 724 , a magnetic disk drive interface 726 and an optical drive interface 728 , respectively. The drives and their associated computer-readable media provide nonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executable instructions, and so forth. For the computer 702 , the drives and media accommodate the storage of broadcast programming in a suitable digital format. Although the description of computer-readable media above refers to a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk and a CD, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other types of media which are readable by a computer, such as zip drives, magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, cartridges, and the like, may also be used in the exemplary operating environment, and further that any such media may contain computer-executable instructions for performing the methods of the present invention. A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM 712 , including an operating system 730 , one or more application programs 732 , other program modules 734 and program data 736 . It is appreciated that the present invention can be implemented with various commercially available operating systems or combinations of operating systems. A user can enter commands and information into the computer 702 through a keyboard 738 and a pointing device, such as a mouse 740 . Other input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, an IR remote control, a joystick, a game pad, a satellite dish, a scanner, or the like. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit 704 through a serial port interface 742 that is coupled to the system bus 708 , but may be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, a game port, a universal serial bus (“USB”), an IR interface, etc. A monitor 744 or other type of display device is also connected to the system bus 708 via an interface, such as a video adapter 746 . In addition to the monitor 744 , a computer typically includes other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers, printers etc. The computer 702 may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer(s) 748 . The remote computer(s) 748 may be a workstation, a server computer, a router, a personal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainment appliance, a peer device or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described relative to the computer 702 , although, for purposes of brevity, only a memory storage device 750 is illustrated. The logical connections depicted include a local area network (LAN) 752 and a wide area network (WAN) 754 . Such networking environments are commonplace in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets and the Internet. When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 702 is connected to the local area network 752 through a network interface or adapter 756 . The adaptor 756 may facilitate wired or wireless communication to the LAN 752 , which may also include a wireless access point disposed thereon for communicating with the wireless adaptor 756 . When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 702 typically includes a modem 758 , or is connected to a communications server on the LAN, or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN 754 , such as the Internet. The modem 758 , which may be internal or external, is connected to the system bus 708 via the serial port interface 742 . In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer 702 , or portions thereof, may be stored in the remote memory storage device 750 . It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers may be used. Referring now to FIG. 8 , there is illustrated a schematic block diagram of an exemplary computing environment 800 in accordance with the present invention. The system 800 includes one or more client(s) 802 . The client(s) 802 can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The client(s) 802 can house cookie(s) and/or associated contextual information by employing the present invention, for example. The system 800 also includes one or more server(s) 804 . The server(s) 804 can also be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The servers 804 can house threads to perform transformations by employing the present invention, for example. One possible communication between a client 802 and a server 804 may be in the form of a data packet adapted to be transmitted between two or more computer processes. The data packet may include a cookie and/or associated contextual information, for example. The system 800 includes a communication framework 806 that can be employed to facilitate communications between the client(s) 802 and the server(s) 804 . Communications may be facilitated via a wired (including optical fiber) and/or wireless technology. The client(s) 802 are operably connected to one or more client data store(s) 808 that can be employed to store information local to the client(s) 802 (e.g., cookie(s) and/or associated contextual information). Similarly, the server(s) 804 are operably connected to one or more server data store(s) 810 that can be employed to store information local to the servers 804 . What has been described above includes examples 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 may 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. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.
An architecture for minimizing calibration effort in an IEEE 802.11 device location measurement system. The calibration technique is based upon a regression function that produces adequately accurate location information as a function of signal strength regardless of gaps in the calibration data or minimally available data. The algorithm takes a set of signal strengths from known room locations in a building and generates a function giving (x,y) as a function of signal strength, which function may then be used for the estimation of new locations. Radial basis functions, which are simple to express and compute, are used for regression. The fact that the algorithm maps signal strength to continuous location makes it possible to skip rooms during calibration, yet still evaluate the location in those rooms.
7
This application claims benefit of Ser. No. 60/137,655, filed Jun. 4, 1999. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The mammalian bombesin (Bn)-related peptides, gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) and neuromedin B (NMB) have a wide range of biological and pharmacological effects. These include stimulation of the release of numerous gastrointestinal hormones and peptides, stimulation of exocrine gland secretion chemotaxis, contraction of smooth muscle, effects in the central nervous system such as thermoregulabon, behavioral effects, maintenance of circadian rhythm, inhibition of TSH release and safety. Bn-related peptides also function as a growth factor in numerous normal cells (e.g., bronchial cells, endometrial stomal cells and 3T3 cells) as well as neoplastic cells such as human small cell lung cancer cells, rat hepatocellular tumor cells, prostatic cells and breast adenocarcinoma cells. Recent structure-function and cloning studies demonstrate that at least two classes of receptors mediate the actions of Bn-related peptides. One class, the GRP-preferring subtype (GRP receptor or GRP-R), has a high affinity for GRP and low affinity for NMB, whereas the other class, the NMB-preferring subtype (NMB receptor or NMB-R), has a high affinity for NMB and lower affinity for GRP. Both classes of receptors are widely present both in the central nervous system and in the gastrointestinal tract. Until recently, the physiological importance of Bn-related peptides in mediating various processes or which receptor subtype mediated the various reported biological effects of Bn-related peptides was unclear. Five different classes of Bn-receptor antagonists have been described. Jensen, R. T. et al. Trends Pharmacol. Sci. 12:13 (1991). Members of a number of these classes have high potency, long duration of action and selectivity for the GRP receptor and thus are useful even in vivo for defining the role of GRP or GRP receptors in mediating various physiological events. However, at present few antagonists for the NMB receptor which are sufficiently selective or potent have been described. (See, e.g., Coy, D., and Taylor, J., U.S. Pat. No. 5,462,926.) Further, NMB has been implicated in the inhibition of lung cancer and gliomas, Cancer Res 1991 Oct. 1 51:19 5205-11; J Cell Biochem Suppl 1996 24: 237-46, Peptides 1995 16:6 1133-40; J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1992 October 263:1 311-7), stimulation of appetite, (Eur J Pharmacol 1994 Dec. 12 271:1 R7-9; Am J Physiol 1997 January 272:1 Pt 2 R433-7; Pharmacol Biochem Behav 1996 August 54:4 705-11), stimulation of TSH secretion, (hypothyroidism), (Regul Pept 1996 Nov. 14 67:1 47-53), and inhibition of aldosterone secretion, (hyperaldosteronism), (Histol Histopathol 1996 October 11:4 895-7). Thus, the compounds of the present invention are useful in the investigation of the physiological role played by NMB, and in the development of therapeutic compositions for treatment of NMB-related indications. As is known in the art, agonists and antagonists of somatostatin are useful for treating a variety of medical conditions and diseases, such as inhibition of H. pylori proliferation, acromegaly, restenosis, Crohn's disease, systemic sclerosis, external and internal pancreatic pseudocysts and ascites, ViPoma, nesidoblastosis, hyperinsulinism, gastrinoma, Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, diarrhea, AIDS related diarrhea, chemotherapy related diarrhea, scleroderma, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, pancreatitis, small bowel obstruction, gastroesophageal reflux, duodenogastric reflux and in treating endocrinological diseases and/or conditions, such as Cushing's Syndrome, gonadotropinoma, hyperparathyroidism, Graves' Disease, diabetic neuropathy, Paget's disease, and polycystic ovary disease; in treating various types of cancer such as thyroid cancer, hepatome, leukemia, meningioma and conditions associated with cancer such as cancer cachexia; in the treatment of such conditions as hypotension such as orthostatic hypotension and postprandial hypotension and panic attacks; GH secreting adenomas (Acromegaly) and TSH secreting adenomas. Activation of type 2 but not type 5 subtype receptor has been associated with treating prolactin secreting adenomas. Other indications associated with activation of the somatostatin subtypes are inhibition of insulin and/or glucagon and more particularly diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, insulin insensitivity, Syndrome X, angiopathy, proliferative retinopathy, dawn phenomenon and Nephropathy; inhibition of gastric acid secretion and more particularly peptic ulcers, enterocutaneous and pancreaticocutaneous fistula, Dumping syndrome, watery diarrhea syndrome, acute or chronic pancreatitis and gastrointestinal hormone secreting tumors: inhibition of angiogenesis, treatment of inflammatory disorders such as arthritis; chronic allograft rejection; angioplasty; preventing graft vessel and gastrointestinal bleeding. Somatostatin agonists can also be used for decreasing body weight in a patient. Accordingly, the compounds of the instant invention are useful for the foregoing methods. Recently, it was reported that a native somatostatin (SS), somatostatin-14 (SS-14), inhibited the cross-linking of 125 I-GRP to a 120 kD protein in triton extracts of 3T3 cells and human small cell lung cancer cells which are known to possess bombesin receptors. Recent studies have also demonstrated SS-14 could also weakly inhibit binding to opiate receptors, and subsequent structure-function led to the identification of various D-amino acid-substituted and constrained amino acid-substituted cyclo somatostatin analogs that functioned as potent mu opioid receptor antagonists. All patents and publications mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a series of analogues having unique structural features, and to a method of selectively modulating biochemical activity of cells induced by somatostatin and/or neuromedin B. In one aspect the present invention is directed to a compound of the formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the α-nitrogen of AA 1 , AA 2 , AA 3 , AA 3b , AA 4 , AA 5 , AA 7 , AA 7b , and AA 8 each is, independently, optionally substituted with (C 1-4 )alkyl, (C 3-4 )alkenyl, (C 3-4 )alkynyl, or (C 1-5 )alkyl-C(O)—; AA 1 is absentor the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aac, Aic, Arg, Asn, Asp, Dip, Gin, Glu, Hca, Hyp, Lys, Mac, Macab, Orn, Pro, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp, Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr, Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, Iaa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4-Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, Pyp and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid; wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, CN, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 2-6 )alkenyl, (C 2-6 )alkynyl, (C 1-6 )alkoxy, Bzl, O-Bzl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 2 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aic, Arg, Hca, His, Hyp, Pal, F 5 -Phe, Phe, Pro, Trp, and X 0 -Phe Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr, Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, Iaa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, 1-Iqc, 3-Iqc, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4-Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, and Pyp; AA 3 is the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa, Tmpa, Mac, Macab, and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid; wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, CN, (C 1-4 )alkyl, (C 2-4 )alkenyl, (C 2-4 )alkynyl, (C 1-4 )alkoxy, Bzl, O-Bzl, NR 9 R 10 , Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr, Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, Iaa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, 1-Iqc, 3-Iqc, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4-Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, and Pyp; AA 3b is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Pal, 4-Pal, His, Arg, Nal, Trp, Bpa, F 5 -Phe, Phe, X 0 -Phe, R 11 , hArg, Bip, Tic Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, and Pala; AA 4 is a D- or L-isomer of an optionally substituted amino acid or of an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid; wherein said optionally substituted amino acid is selected from the group consisting of Trp, Lys, Orn, hLys, cis-4-Acha, trans-4-Acha, trans-4-Amcha, 4-Pip-Gly, N-Met-Trp, α-Met-Trp, His, hHis, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, and 4-Pip-Ala; wherein the side chain amino group of said optionally substituted amino acid is optionally substituted with R 3 and R 4 ; and wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, CN, (C 1-4 )alkyl, (C 2-4 )alkenyl, (C 2-4 1)alkynyl, Bzl, O-Bzl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 5 is absent, R 11 , Aic, A3c, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aib, β-Ala, Bpa, Cha, Deg, Gaba, Ile, Leu, Nal, Nle, Pro, Sar, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Trp, Val, Pal, F-Phe, Phe, X 0 -Phe, or an optionally substituted D- or L- isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of 4-Pip-Gly, 4-Pip-Ala, cis-4-Acha, trans-4-Acha, trans-4-Amcha, hLys, Lys, Orn, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, and Pala; wherein the side-chain amino group of said optionally substituted amino acid is optionally mono- or di-substituted with R 3 and R 4 ; AA 6 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid, Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa, Tmpa, Thr, Thr(Bzl), Ser, Ser(Bzl), hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, and Pala; AA 7 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid, A3c, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aib, Aic, β-Ala, Arg, Cha, Deg, Gaba, Ile, Leu, Nle, Pip, Pro, Sar, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Val, Tic, Htic, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Dip, Pal, Sala, and X 0 -Phe; AA 7b is absent or a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Bpa, Phe, F 5 -Phe, X 0 -Phe, Nal, Pro, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Trp, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, and Pala; AA 8 is absent or the D- or L- isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Maa, Maaab, Thr, Thr(Bzl), Ser, Ser(Bzl), Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), F 5 -Phe, and X 5 -Phe, and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid; R 1 and R 2 each is, independently, H, E—, E(O) 2 S—, E(O)C—, EOOC—, R 13 , or absent; R 3 and R 4 each is, independently, (C 1-12 )alkyl, (C 2-12 )alkenyl, (C 2-12 )alkynyl, phenyl, naphthyl, phenyl-(C 1-6 alkyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, naphthyl-(C 1-6 )alkyl, naphthyl-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, naphthyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 1-6 )alkyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, heterocyclyl-(C 1-4 )alkyl, heterocyclyl-(C 2-4 )alkenyl, heterocyclyl)-(C 2-4 )alkynyl, 1-adamantyl, 2-adamantyl, 9-fluorenylmethyl, dicyclopropylmethyl, dimethylcyclopropylmethyl, or benzhydryl; R 5 is —OR 6 , —NR 7 R 8 , or absent, wherein each R 6 , R 7 and R 8 is, independently, H, (C 1-12 )alkyl, (C 2-12 )alkenyl, (C 2-12 )alkynyl, phenyl, naphthyl, phenyl-(C 1-6 )alkyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, naphthyl-(C 1-6 )alkyl, naphthyl-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, naphthyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, 1-adamantyl, 2-adamantyl, 9-fluorenylmethyl, dicyclopropylmethyl, dimethylcyclopropylmethyl, or benzhydryl; R 9 and R 10 each is, independently, H, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 3-4 )alkenyl, (C 3-4 )alkynyl, 1-adamantyl, or 2-adamantyl; R 11 is, independently for each occurrence, a D- or L-amino acid of the formula: wherein m and n each is, independently, 1, 2, or 3, and p is 0, 1, or 2; R 12 is, independently for each occurrence, an optionally substituted moiety of the formula: R 13 is a moiety of the formula wherein q, r, s, and t each is, independently, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5; R 19 is absent, H, NH 2 , OH, (C 1-6 )hydroxyalkyl, N(R 27 R 28 ), SO 3 H, or an optionally substituted moiety selected from the group consisting of heterocyclyl, phenyl and naphthyl, wherein the optionally substituted moiety defined for R 19 is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected, independently for each occurrence, from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 2-6 )alkenyl, (C 2-6 )alkynyl, (C 1-6 )alkoxy, NH 2 , mono- or di-(C 1-6 )alkylamino, Bzl, and O-Bzl; R 20 is O or absent; R 21 is (C 1-6 )alkyl or absent; R 22 is N, O, C, or CH; R 23 is (C 1-6 )alkyl or absent, R 24 is N, CH, or C; R 25 is NH, O, or absent; R 26 is SO 2 , CO, or CH; R 27 and R 28 each is, independently, H or (C 1-6 )alkyl; E is, independently for each occurrence, an optionally substituted moiety selected from the group consisting of (C 1-12 )alkyl, (C 2-12 )alkenyl, (C 2-12 )alkynyl, phenyl, naphthyl, phenyl-(C 1-6 )alkyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, naphthyl-(C 1-6 )alkyl, naphthyl-C 2-6 )alkenyl, naphthyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, (cyclo(C 3-6 )alkyl)-(C 1-6 )alkyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 2-4 )alkynyl, heterocyclyl-(C 1-4 )alkyl, heterocyclyl-(C 2-4 )alkenyl, heterocyclyl-(C 2-4 )alkynyl, 1-adamantyl, 2-adamantyl, dicyclopropylmethyl, dimethylcyclopropylmethyl, 9-fluorenylmethyl, and benzhydryl; wherein the optionally substituted moiety defined for E is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, OH, Bzl, O-Bzl, NO 2 , CN, COOH, and SH; X 0 is halogen, NO 2 , OH, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 1-6 )alkoxy, mono- or di-(C l-6 )alkylamino, Bzl, O-Bzl, NR 9 R 10 , or CN; X 1 is H, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 2-6 )alkenyl, (C 2-6 )alkynyl, indolyl, imidazolyl, 1-naphthyl, 3-pyridyl, optionally ring-substituted benzyl, or a moiety which corresponds to the side-chain group of Arg, Leu, Gln, Lys, Tyr, His, Thr, Trp, Phe, Val, Ala, Lys, or His; wherein said optionally ring-substituted benzyl is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, OH, (C 1-6 )alkoxy, mono- or di-(C 1-6 )alkylamino, (C 1-4 )alkyl, (C 2-4 ) alkenyl, (C 2-4 )alkynyl, and NR 9 R 10 ; X 2 and X 3 each is, independently, H, halogen, OH, ═O, ═S, (C 1-12 )alkyl, (C 2-12 )alkenyl, (C 2-12 )alkynyl, phenyl, naphthyl, phenyl-(C 1-6 )alkyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, phenyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, naphthyl-C 1-6 )alkyl, naphthyl-(C 2-6 )alkenyl, naphthyl-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 1-6 )alkyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 2-5 )alkenyl, (cyclo(C 3-7 )alkyl)-(C 2-6 )alkynyl, heterocyclyl-(C 1-4 )alkyl, heterocyclyl-(C 2-4 )alkenyl, heterocyclyl-(C 2-4 )alkynyl, 1-adamantyl, 2-adamantyl, dicyclopropylmethyl, or dimethylcyclopropyl methyl; X 4 is H, OH, or NH 2 ; and X 5 is halogen, NO 2 , CH 3 , OH, Bzl or O-Bzl; provided that at least six amino acid residues are present; when AA 3 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa, or Tmpa, and AA 6 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa, or Tmpa, then AA 3 and AA 6 are connected by a disulfide bond; when AA 1 or AA 3 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Mac or Macab, then AA 8 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Maa and Maaab, and when AA 8 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Maa and Maaab, then AA 1 or AA 3 is a D- or L-isomer of Mac or of Macab, and AA 1 or AA 3 is connected by a disulfide bond with AA 8 ; AA 2 can be D- or L-Hca only when AA 1 is absent; when one of R 1 or R 2 is E(O) 2 S—, E(O)C—, EOOC—, or R 13 , the other is H; when R 5 is absent, then one of R 1 or R 2 is also absent, and the N-terminal amino acid and C-terminal amino acid together form an amide bond; when one of X 2 or X 3 is C═O or C═S, the other is absent; and said compound of formula (I) is not of the formula: D-Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-NH 2 ; Ac-Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-NH 2 ; L-4-NO 2 -Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-NH 2 ; Ac-L-4-NO 2 -Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-N H 2 ; Hca-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-NH 2 ; D-Dip-Tyr-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-Nal-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-Phe(4-O-Bzl)cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)Cha-Nal-NH 2 ; or D4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Phe(4-O-Bzl)-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Val-Tyr-NH 2 . In another aspect, this invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising one or more of a compound of formula (I), as defined hereinabove, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of eliciting an agonist effect from one or more of a somatostatin and/or neuromedin B subtype receptor in a subject in need thereof, which comprises administering a compound of formula (1), as described hereinabove, to said subject. In still another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of eliciting an antagonist effect from one or more of a somatostatin and/or neuromedin B subtype receptor in a subject in need thereof, which comprises administering a compound of formula (I), as described hereinabove, to said subject. In a further aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of binding one or more somatostatin and/or neuromedin B subtype receptor in a subject in need thereof, which comprises administering a compound of formula (I), as described hereinabove, to said subject. In a still further aspect, the present invention is directed to the use of one or more compounds according to formula I to bind to the neuromedin B receptor or to one or more of the somatostatin receptors, as when performing an in vitro or in vivo assay. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION One of ordinary skill will recognize that certain substituents listed in this invention may have reduced chemical stability when combined with one another or with heteroatoms in the compounds. Such compounds with reduced chemical stability are not preferred. In general, the compounds of formula (I) can be made by processes which include processes known in the chemical arts for the production of compounds. Certain processes for the manufacture of formula (I) compounds are provided as further features of the invention and are illustrated by the reaction schemes and examples included herein. In the above structural formulas and throughout the instant application, the following terms have the indicated meanings unless expressly stated otherwise: The term alkyl is intended to include those alkyl groups of the designated length in either a straight or branched configuration. Exemplary of such alkyl groups are methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, sec-butyl, tertiary butyl, pentyl, isopentyl, hexyl, isohexyl and the like. When the term C 0 -alkyl is included in a definition it is intended to denote a single covalent bond. The term alkoxy is intended to include those alkoxy groups of the designated length in either a straight or branched configuration. Exemplary of such alkoxy groups are methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, isopropoxy, butoxy, isobutoxy, tertiary butoxy, pentoxy, isopentoxy, hexoxy, isohexoxy and the like. The term halogen or halo is intended to include the halogen atoms fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine. The term cycloalkyl is intended to include a mono-cycloalkyl group or a bi-cycloalkyl group of the indicated carbon number known to those of skill in the art. The term dimethylcyclopropylmethyl refers to the structure The term aryl is intended to include aromatic rings known in the art, which can be mono-cyclic, bi-cyclic or tri-cyclic, such as phenyl, naphthyl and anthracyl. The term heterocycle includes mono-cyclic and bi-cyclic systems having one or more heteroatoms, such as oxygen, nitrogen and/or sulfur. The ring systems may be aromatic, for example pyridine, indole, quinoline, pyrimidine, thiophene (also known as thienyl), furan, benzothiophene, tetrazole, dihydroindole, indazole, N-formylindole, benzimidazole, thiazole, and thiadiazole. The ring systems also may be non-aromatic, for example pyrrolidine, piperidine, morpholine and the like. The chemist of ordinary skill will recognize that certain combinations of heteroatom-containing substituents listed in this invention define compounds which will be less stable under physiological conditions. Accordingly, such compounds are less preferred. As defined herein, certain residues or moieties are alternatively absent from certain peptides of the invention. Where the bond(s) to such a residue or moiety is indicated by a solid line it is understood that when the residue or moiety is absent a bond is formed between the remaining N-terminal residue or moiety(-ies) and the remaining C-terminal residue or moiety(-ies). Where the bond(s) to such a residue or moiety is indicated by dashed line(s) it is understood that when the residue or moiety is absent no bond is formed between the remaining N-terminal residue or moiety(-ies) and the remaining C-terminal residue or moiety(-ies). For example, in the following structure: the absence of AA 1 results in and the absence of AA 1 results in In the following structure: the absence of R 23 results in When a chemical structure as used herein has an arrow emanating from it, the arrow indicates the point of attachment For example, the structure is a pentyl group. When a line is drawn through a cyclic moiety, the line indicates that the substituent can be attached to the cyclic moiety at any of the available bonding points. For example, means that the substituent “X” can be bonded ortho, meta or para to the point of attachment. Similarly, when a line is drawn through a bi-cyclic or a tri-cyclic moiety, the line indicates that the substituent can be attached to the bicyclic or a tri-cyclic moiety at any of the available bonding points in any of the rings. For all formulas depicted herein the N-terminus is at the left and the C-terminus at the right in accordance with the conventional representation of a polypeptide chain. The symbol AA 1 , AA 2 , or the like in a peptide sequence stands for an amino acid residue, i.e., ═N—CH(R)—CO— when it is at the N-terminus or —NH—CH(R)—CO— when it is not at the N-terminus, where R denotes the side-chain of that amino acid residue. Thus, R is —CH(CH 3 ) 2 for Val. Also, when the amino acid residue is optically active, it is the L-form configuration that is intended unless D-form is expressly designated. Unless otherwise indicated, where an acetyl group appears at the N-terminus it is understood that the acetyl group is attached to the α-nitrogen rather than to the side chain of the N-terminal amino acid. For example, the structure of the amino acid sequence Ac4-NO 2 -Phe-AA 2 -AA 3 - . . . is: Where the substituent Y appears as, e.g., —OR 5 , at the C-terminus of the peptide, it is to be understood that —OR 5 is attached directly to the carbonyl carbon in replacement of the —OH group. E(O)C— stands for and EOOC— stands for What is meant by “aromatic α-amino acid” is an amino acid residue of the formula where Z is a moiety containing an aromatic ring. Examples of Z include, but are not limited to, a benzene or pyridine ring and the following structures with or without one or more substituent X on the aromatic ring (where X is, independently for each occurrence, halogen, NO 2 , CH 3 , OH, Bzl, or O-Bzl): Other examples of an aromatic α-amino acid of the invention are substituted His, such as MeHis, His (τ-Me), or His (π-Me). What is meant by nucleic acid base is an optionally substituted nucleic acid moiety of the formula: where R 1 and R 2 are as defined in the claims. In certain embodiments of the invention the side chain amino group of one or more amino acids is optionally mono- or di-substituted with R 3 and R 4 . For example, substituting R 3 onto the side chain amino group of 4-Pip-Gly would result in the following structure: The compounds of the instant invention have at least one asymmetric center. Additional asymmetric centers may be present on the molecule depending upon the nature of the various substituents on the molecule. Each such asymmetric center will produce two optical isomers and it is intended that all such optical isomers, as separated, pure or partially purified optical isomers, racemic mixtures or diastereomeric mixtures thereof, be included within the scope of the instant invention. The instant compounds can be generally isolated in the form of their pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts, such as the salts derived from using inorganic and organic acids. Examples of such acids are hydrochloric, nitric, sulfuric, phosphoric, formic, acetic, trifluoroacetic, propionic, maleic, succinic, D-tartaric, L-tartaric, malonic, methane sulfonic and the like. In addition, certain compounds containing an acidic function such as a carboxy can be isolated in the form of their inorganic salt in which the counter-ion can be selected from sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium and the like, as well as from organic bases. The pharmaceutically acceptable salts are formed by taking about 1 equivalent of a compound of formula (I) and contacting it with about 1 equivalent of the appropriate corresponding acid of the salt which is desired. Work-up and isolation of the resulting salt is well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art. The compounds of this invention can be administered by oral, parenteral (e.g., intramuscular, intraperitoneal, intravenous or subcutaneous injection, or implant), nasal, vaginal, rectal, sublingual or topical routes of administration and can be formulated with pharmaceutically acceptable carriers to provide dosage forms appropriate for each route of administration. Accordingly, the present invention includes within its scope pharmaceutical compositions comprising, as an active ingredient, at least one of the compounds of formula (I) in association with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Solid dosage forms for oral administration include capsules, tablets, pills, powders and granules. In such solid dosage forms, the active compound is admixed with at least one inert pharmaceutically acceptable carrier such as sucrose, lactose, or starch. Such dosage forms can also comprise, as is normal practice, additional substances other than such inert diluents, e.g., lubricating agents such as magnesium stearate. In the case of capsules, tablets and pills, the dosage forms may also comprise buffering agents. Tablets and pills can additionally be prepared with enteric coatings. Liquid dosage forms for oral administration include pharmaceutically acceptable emulsions, solutions, suspensions, syrups, the elixirs containing inert diluents commonly used in the art, such as water. Besides such inert diluents, compositions can also include adjuvants, such as wetting agents, emulsifying and suspending agents, and sweetening, flavoring and perfuming agents. Preparations according to this invention for parenteral administration include sterile aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, suspensions, or emulsions. Examples of non-aqueous solvents or vehicles are propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, vegetable oils, such as olive oil and corn oil, gelatin, and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate. Such dosage forms may also contain adjuvants such as preserving, wetting, emulsifying, and dispersing agents. They may be sterilized by, for example, filtration through a bacteria-retaining filter, by incorporating sterilizing agents into the compositions, by irradiating the compositions, or by heating the compositions. They can also be manufactured in the form of sterile solid compositions which can be dissolved in sterile water, or some other sterile injectable medium immediately before use. Compositions for rectal or vaginal administration are preferably suppositories which may contain, in addition to the active substance, excipients such as coca butter or a suppository wax. Compositions for nasal or sublingual administration are also prepared with standard excipients well known in the art. Further, a compound of this invention can be administered in a sustained release composition such as those described in the following patents. U.S. Pat. No. 5,672,659 teaches sustained release compositions comprising a bioactive agent and a polyester. U.S. Pat. No. 5,595,760 teaches sustained release compositions comprising a bioactive agent in a gelable form. U.S. application Ser. No. 08/929,363 filed Sep. 9, 1997, teaches polymeric sustained release compositions comprising a bioactive agent and chitosan. U.S. application Ser. No. 08/740,778 filed Nov. 1, 1996, teaches sustained release compositions comprising a bioactive agent and cyclodextrin. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/015,394 filed Jan. 29, 1998, teaches absorbable sustained release compositions of a bioactive agent. The teachings of the foregoing patents and applications are incorporated herein by reference. In general, an effective dosage of active ingredient in the compositions of this invention may be varied; however, it is necessary that the amount of the active ingredient be such that a suitable dosage form is obtained. The selected dosage depends upon the desired therapeutic effect, on the route of administration, and on the duration of the treatment, all of which are within the realm of knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art. Generally, dosage levels of between 0.0001 to 100 mg/kg of body weight daily are administered to humans and other animals, e.g., mammals. A preferred dosage range is 0.01 to 10.0 mg/kg of body weight daily, which can be administered as a single dose or divided into multiple doses, or provided for continuous administration. Compounds of the instant invention can be and were assessed for their ability to bind to a somatostatin subtype receptor according to the following assays. The affinity of a compound for human somatostatin subtype receptors 1 to 5 (sst 1 , sst 2 , sst 3 , sst 4 , and sst 5 , respectively) is determined by measuring the inhibition of [ 125 I-Tyr 11 ]SRIF-14 binding to CHO-K1 cells transfected with the sst receptor subtype. The human sst, receptor gene was cloned as a genomic fragment. A 1.5 Kb Psti-XmnI segment containing 100 bp of the 5′-untranslated region, 1.17 Kb of the entire coding region, and 230 bp of the 3′-untranslated region was modified by the Bg 1II linker addition. The resulting DNA fragment was subcloned into the BamHI site of a pCMV-81 to produce the mammalian expression plasmid (provided by Dr. Graeme Bell, University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill.). A clonal cell line stably expressing the sst 1 , receptor was obtained by transfection into CHO-K1 cells (American Type Culture Collection, Manassas, Va.) (“ATCC”) using the calcium phosphate co-precipitation method. The plasmid pRSV-neo (ATCC) was included as a selectable marker. Clonal cell lines were selected in RPMI 1640 media (Sigma Chemical Co., St. Louis, Mo.) containing 0.5 mg/ml of geneticin (Gibco BRL, Grand Island, N.Y.) ring cloned, and expanded into culture. The human sst 2 somatostatin receptor gene, isolated as a 1.7 Kb BamHI-HindIII genomic DNA fragment and subcloned into the plasmid vector pGEM3Z (Promega), was kindly provided by Dr. G. Bell (University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill.). The mammalian cell expression vector is constructed by inserting the 1.7 Kb BamHI-HindIII fragment into compatible restriction endonuclease sites in the plasmid pCMV5. A clonal cell line is obtained by transfection into CHO-K1 cells using the calcium phosphate co-precipitation method. The plasmid pRSV-neo is included as a selectable marker. The human sst 3 was isolated at genomic fragment, and the complete coding sequence was contained within a 2.4 Kb BamHI/HindIII fragment. The mammalian expression plasmid, pCMV-h3 was constructed by inserting the a 2.0 Kb NcoI-HindIII fragment into the EcoR1 site of the pCMV vector after modification of the ends and addition of EcoR1 linkers. A clonal cell line stably expressing the sst 3 receptor was obtained by transfection into CHO-K1 cells (ATCC) using the calcium phosphate co-precipitation method. The plasmid pRSV-neo (ATCC) was included as a selectable marker. Clonal cell lines were selected in RPMI 1640 media containing 0.5 mg/ml of G418 (Gibco), ring cloned, and expanded into culture. The human sst 4 receptor expression plasmid, pCMV-HX was provided by Dr. Graeme Bell (University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill.). The vector contains the 1.4 Kb NheI-NheI genomic fragment encoding the human sst 4 , 456 bp of the 5′-untranslated region and 200 bp of the 3′-untranslated region, cloned into the XbaI/EcoR1 sites of PCMV-HX. A clonal cell line stably expressing the sst 4 receptor was obtained by transfection into CHO-K1 cells (ATCC) using the calcium phosphate co-precipitation method. The plasmid pRSV-neo (ATCC) was included as a selectable marker. Clonal cell lines were selected in RPMI 1640 media containing 0.5 mg/ml of G418 (Gibco), ring cloned, and expanded into culture. The human sst 5 gene was obtained by PCR using a λ genomic clone as a template, and kindly provided by Dr. Graeme Bell (University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill.). The resulting 1.2 Kb PCR fragment contained 21 base pairs of the 5′-untranslated region, the full coding region, and 55 bp of the 3′-untranslated region. The clone was inserted into EcoR1 site of the plasmid pBSSK(+). The insert was recovered as a 1.2 Kb HindIII-XbaI fragment for subcloning into pCVM5 mammalian expression vector. A clonal cell line stably expressing the SST 5 receptor was obtained by transfection into CHO-K1 cells (ATCC) using the calcium phosphate co-precipitation method. The plasmid pRSV-neo (ATCC) was included as a selectable marker. Clonal cell lines were selected in RPMI 1640 media containing 0.5 mg/ml of G418 (Gibco), ring cloned, and expanded into culture. CHO-K1 cells stably expressing one of the human sst receptors are grown in RPMI 1640 containing 10% fetal calf serum and 0.4 mg/ml geneticin. Cells are collected with 0.5 mM EDTA, and centrifuged at 500 g for about 5 minutes at about 4° C. The pellet is resuspended in 50 mM Tris[hydroxymethyl]aminomethane hydrochloride, pH=7.4 at 25° C., (“Tris buffer”), and centrifuged twice at 500 g for about 5 minutes at about 4° C. The cells are lysed by sonication and centrifuged at 39,000 g for about 10 minutes at about 4° C. The pellet is resuspended in the same buffer and centrifuged at 50,000 g for about 10 minutes at about 4° C. and membranes in resulting pellet are stored at −80° C. Competitive inhibition experiments of [ 125 I-Tyr 11 ]SRIF-14 binding are run in duplicate in polypropylene 96 well plates. Cell membranes (10 μg protein/well) are incubated with [ 125 l-Tyr 1 ]SRIF-14 (Dr. Tom Davis, Univ. of Arizona, Tuscon, Ariz.) (0.05 nM) for about 60 minutes at about 37° C. in 50 mM HEPES, 0.2% BSA, 2.5 mM MgCl 2 . Bound from free [ 125 I-Tyr 11 ]SRIF-14 is separated by immediate filtration through GF/C glass fiber filter plate (Unifilter, Packard, Meriden, Conn.) presoaked with 0.3% polyethylenimine (P.E.I.), using Filtermate 196 (Packard) cell harvester. Filters are washed with 50 mM Tris-HCl at about 0-4° C. for about 4 seconds and assayed for radioactivity using Packard Top Count. Specific binding is obtained by subtracting nonspecific binding (determined in the presence of 0.1 μM SRIF-14) from total binding. Binding data are analyzed by computer-assisted nonlinear regression analysis (Data Analysis Toolbox, v.1.0, Molecular Design Limited, San Leandro, Calif.) and inhibition constant (Ki) values are determined. Whether a compound of the instant invention is an SST agonist or antagonist of somatostatin is determined by the following assay. Functional Assay: Inhibition of cAMP Intracellular Production CHO-K1 Cells expressing human somatostatin (SRIF-14) subtype receptors are seeded in 24-well tissue culture multidishes in RPMI 1640 media with 10% fetal calf serum (FCS). The medium is changed the day before the experiment. Cells at 10 5 cells/well are washed 2 times by 0.5 ml RPMI 1640 media. Fresh RPMI 1640 media with 0.2% BSA and supplemented with 0.5 mM 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (“IBMX”) is added, and the cells are incubated for about 5 minutes at about 37° C. Cyclic AMP production is stimulated by the addition of 1 mM forskolin (“FSK”) (Sigma Chemical Co., St. Louis, Mo.) for about 15-30 minutes at about 37° C. The agonist effect of a compound is measured by the simultaneous addition of FSK (1 μM), SRIF-14 (Bachem, Torrence, Calif.), (10 −12 M to 10 −6 M) and a test compound (10 −10 M to 10 −5 M). The antagonist effect of a compound is measured by the simultaneous addition of FSK (1 μM), SRIF-14 (1 to 10 nM) and a test compound (10 −1 M to 10 −5 M). The reaction medium is removed and 200 ml 0.1 N HCl is added. cAMP is measured using radioimmunoassay method (Kit FlashPlate SMP001A, New England Nuclear, Boston). Compounds of the instant invention can be and were assessed for its ability to bind to a neuromedin B receptor according to the following assay. Cell Culture: Balb 3T3 cells, expressing the rat NMB receptor, were obtained from Dr. R. T. Jensen (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.), and cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (“DMEM”) containing 10% fetal calf serum, 0.5 mg/ml of G418 (Gibco). The cells were maintained at 37° C. in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO 2 /95% air. Radioligand Binding: Membranes were prepared for radioligand binding studies by homogenization of the cells in 20 ml of ice-cold 50 mM Tris-HCl with a Brinkman Polytron (Westbury, N.Y.) (setting 6, 15 sec). The homogenates were washed twice by centrifugation (39,000 g/10 minutes), and the final pellets were resuspended in 50 mM Tris-HCl containing 5.0 mM MgCl 2 , and 0.1% BSA. For assay, aliquots (0.4 ml) were incubated with 0.05 nM [ 125 I-Tyr 4 ]bombesin (2200 Ci/mmol, New England Nuclear, Boston, Mass.), with and without 0.05 ml of unlabeled competing test peptides. After incubation (30 minutes, 4° C.), the bound [ 125 I-Tyr 4 ]bombesin was separated from the free by rapid filtration through GF/C filters (Brandel, Gaithersburg, Md.), which had been previously soaked in 0.3% polyethyleneimine. The filters were then washed three times with 5-ml aliquots of ice-cold 50 mM Tris-HCl, and the bound radioactivity trapped on the filters was counted by gamma spectrometry (Wallac LKB, Gaithersburg, Md.). Specific binding was defined as the total [ 125 I-Tyr 4 ]bombesin bound minus that bound in the presence of 1000 nM neuromedin B (Bachem, Torrence, Calif.). One embodiment of the method includes the step of contacting the cells with a peptide of Formula (II): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein AA 1 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aac, Aic, Arg, Asn, Asp, Dip, Gln, Glu, Hyp, Lys, Mac, Macab, Orn Pip, Pro, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp, Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr, Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, laa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, I-Iqc, 3-Iqc, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4-Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, Pyp and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid, wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, CN, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 2-6 )alkenyl, (C 2-6 )alkynyl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 2 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aic, Arg, Hca, His, Hyp, Pal, F 5 -Phe, Phe, Pro, Trp, X 0 -Phe, Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr, Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, laa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, I-Iqc, 3Iqc, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4-Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, and Pyp;AA 3 is the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa and Tmpa; AA 4 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Trp, N-Met-Trp, β-Met-Trp, His, hHis, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid, wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, (C 1-4 )alkyl, (C 2-4 )alkenyl, (C 2-4 )alkynyl, Bzl, O-Bzl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 6 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of 4-Pip-Gly, 4-Pip-Ala, cis-4-Acha, trans-4-Acha, trans-4-Amcha, hLys, Lys, Orn, hArg, Bip, Tic Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, and Pala, wherein the side-chain amino group of said amino acid is optionally mono- or di-substituted with R 3 and R 4 ; AA 6 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa, and Tmpa; AA 7 is absent or a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aic, A3c, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aib, β-Ala, Arg, Bpa, Cha, Deg, Gaba, His, lie, Leu, Nal, Nle, Pal, Phe, F 5 -Phe, Pro, Sar, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Trp, N-Me-Trp, Val, N-Me-Val, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, and X 0 -Phe; AA 8 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid, Maa, Maaab, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), F 5 -Phe, and X 5 -Phe; R 13 is a moiety according to the formula wherein R 21 is (C 1-4 )alkyl and s is 1, 2, 3, or 4; and X 0 is halogen, NO 2 , CH 3 , OH, Bzl, O-Bzl or CN; provided that at least one of AA 7 or AA 8 is present Another embodiment of the method includes the step of contacting the cells with a peptide of Formula (III): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein AA 1 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aac, Aic, Arg, Asn, Asp, Gin, Glu, Hca, His, Hyp, Lys, Mac, Macab, Orn, Pro, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp, Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, laa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, 1-Iqc, 3-Iqc, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4-Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, Pyp and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid, wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, CN, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 2-4 )alkenyl, (C 2-6 )alkynyl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 3 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa, and Tmpa; AA 3b is the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Arg, Bpa, F 5 -Phe, His, Nal, Pal, 4-Pal, Phe, Trp, erg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, and X 5 -Phe; AA is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Trp, N-Met-Trp, β-Met-Trp, His, hHis, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino add; wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, CN, (C 1-4 )alkyl, (C 2-4 )alkenyl, (C 2-4 )alkynyl, Bzl, O-Bzl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 5 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of 4-Pip-Gly, 4-Pip-Ala, cis-4-Acha, trans-4-Acha, trans-4-Amcha, hLys, Lys and Orn, and, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, wherein the side-chain amino group of said amino acid is optionally mono- or disubstituted with R 3 and R 4 ; AA 6 is a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen, Tpa, and Tmpa; AA 7 is absent or a D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aic, A3c, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aib, β-Ala, Arg, Bpa, Cha, Deg, Gaba, His, Ile, Leu, Nal, Nle, Pal, Phe, F 5 -Phe, Pro, Sar, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Trp, N-Me-Trp, Val, N-Me-Val, hArg, Bip, Tic, Htic, Dip, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, and X 0 -Phe; X 0 is halogen, NO 2 , CH 3 , OH, CN, Bzl or O-Bzl; R 1 and R 2 each is, independently, H, E-, E(O) 2 S—, E(O)C—, EOOC—, R 13 , or absent; R 5 is —OR 6 or —NR 7 R 8 ; R 13 is a moiety of the formula wherein R 21 is (C 1-4 )alkyl and s is 1, 2, 3, or 4; provided that: at least one of AA 1 or AA 2 is present; when AA 1 is a D- or L-isomer of Pro, Hyp, Arg, Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr, Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, laa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, 1-Iqc, 3-Iqc, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4 Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, Pyp or His, AA 2 cannot be a D- or L-isomer of Pro, Hyp, Arg, Pip, hArg, Bip, Bpa, Tic, Cmp, Inc, Inp, Nip, Ppc, Htic, Thi, Tra, Cmpi, Tpr, Iia, Alla, Aba, Gba, Car, Ipa, laa, Inip, Apa, Mim, Thnc, Sala, Aala, Thza, Thia, Bal, Fala, Pala, Dap, Agly, Pgly, Ina, Dipa, Mnf, Inic, I-Iqc, 3-Iqc, C4c, 5-Iqs, Htqa, 4-Mqc, Thn, α-Chpa, Cit, Nua, Pyp or His; when AA 7 is a D- or L-isomer of Thr or of Ser, AA 8 cannot be a D- or L-isomer of Thr or of Ser; at least one of AA 1 , AA 2 , AA 3b , AA 7 , AA 7b , or AA 8 is the D- or L-isomer of R 11 ; and when one of X 2 or X 3 is ═O or ═S, the other is absent; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Yet another embodiment of the method includes the step of contacting the cells with a peptide of Formula (IV): wherein AA 1 is absent, the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Aic, Hyp, Pro, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), and an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid; wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 2-6 )alkenyl, (C 2-6 )alkynyl, (C 1-6 )alkoxy, Bzl, O-Bzl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 2 is absent or the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of R 11 , Arg, F 5 -Phe, His, Pal, Phe, Trp, and X 0 -Phe; AA 2 is the D- or L-isomer of an optionally substituted aromatic α-amino acid, wherein said optionally substituted aromatic α-amino add is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, NO 2 , OH, (C 1-4 )alkyl, (C 2-4 )alkenyl, (C 2-4 )alkynyl, Bzl, O-Bzl, and NR 9 R 10 ; AA 4 is a D- or L-isomer of an optionally substituted amino acid selected from the group consisting of Lys, Orn, hLys, cis-4-Acha, trans-4-Acha, trans-4-Amcha, 4-Pip-Gly, and 4-Pip-Ala, wherein the side chain amino group of said optionally substituted amino acid is optionally substituted with R 3 and R 4 ; AA 5 is absent or a D- or L-isomer of R 11 , A3c, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aib, Aic, β-Ala, Bpa, Cha, Deg, F 5 -Phe, Gaba, Ile, Leu, Nal, Nle, Pal, Phe, Pro, Sar, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Trp, N-Me-Trp, Val, N-Me-Val, or X 0 -Phe; AA 6 is absent, the D- or L-isomer of R 11 , an aromatic α-amino acid, F 5 -Phe, Phe, Thr, Thr(Bzl), Ser, Ser(Bzl), or X 0 -Phe; AA 7 is absent, the D- or L-isomer of R 11 or the D- or L-isomer of an aromatic α-amino acid; AA 8 is a D- or L- isomer of R 13 ; R 1 is H, E-, E(O) 2 S—, E(O)C—, EOOC—, or R 13 ; R 13 is a moiety of the formula wherein R 21 is (C 1-4 )alkyl and s is 1, 2, 3, or 4; X 0 in the definition of AA 2 and AA 5 is halogen, NO 2 , OH, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 1-6 )alkoxy, mono- or di-(C 1-6 )alkylamino, Bzl or O-Bzl; X 0 in the definition of AA 6 is halogen, NO 2 , OH, (C 1-6 )alkyl, (C 1-6 )alkoxy, mono- or di-(C 1-6 )alkylamino, Bzl, O-Bzl, or NR 9 R 10 ; provided that: at least one of AA 1 or M 2 is present; when AA 1 is absent, AA 2 and AA 8 together form a bond; and at least two of AA 5 , AA 6 , and AA 7 are present, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Abbreviations (A(z))aeg (A)aeg where the amino group of the adenine moiety is protected with carbobenzyloxy, i.e., (A)aeg N-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(2-adeninyl-1-oxo-ethyl)-glycine (C(z))aeg (C)aeg where the amino group of the cytosine moiety is protected with carbobenzyloxy, ie., (C)aeg N-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(2-cytosinyl-1-oxo-ethyl)-glycine (G(z))aeg (G)aeg where the amino group of the guanine moiety is protected with carbobenzyloxy, i.e., (G)aeg N-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(2-guaninyl-1-oxo-ethyl)-glycine (T)aeg N-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(2-thyminyl-oxo-ethyl)-glycine A3c 1-Amino-1-cyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid A4c 1-Amino-1-cyclobutane-1-carboxylic acid A5c 1-Amino-1-cyclopentane-1-carboxylic acid A6c 1-Amino-1-cyclohexane-1-carboxylic acid Aaa 2-Aminoanthraquinone Aac an aminoalkyl carboxylic acid of the formula H 2 N—(CH 2 ) n —COOH, wherein n is 2-6 Aala Anthrylalanine Aba N-(4-aminobenzoyl)-β-alanine Abp 4-amino-1-benzylpiperidine Abu 2-Aminobutyric Acid Ac acetyl, i.e., CH3—C(O)—; Ach trans-1,4-Diaminocyclohexane 4-Acha 3-(4-aminocyclohexyl)alanine Ads 1-Amino-deoxy-D-sorbitol aeg Aminoethylglycine Agly Allylglycine Ahep 1-Amino-4-(2-hydroxyethyl) Piperazine Aib 2-Aminoisobutyric Acid Aic 2-aminoindan-2-carboxylic acid 5Aiq 5-Amino Isoquinoline Alla Allantoic add 4-Amcha 3-((4-aminomethyl)cyclohexyl)alanine Amp 1-Amino-4-methylpiperazine Apa 2,3-Diaminopropionic acid Api 1-(3-Aminopropyl)imidazole Bal 3-Benzothienylalanine Bip 4,4′-Biphenylalanine BOC Tertiarybutyloxycarbonyl Bpa 3-(4-biphenyl)alanine Bzl the benzyl radical Bzop 4-Benzoylphenylalanine C4c Cinnoline-4-Carboxylic add Car Carnosine Cbz carbobenzyloxy radical Cha 3-Cyclohexylalanine α-Chpa Alpha-cyclohexylphenylacetic acid Cit citrinin Cmp 4-Carboxymethylpiperidine Cmpi 4-Carboxymethylpiperazine Cpa 2-, 3-, or 4-chloro phenylalanine, unless otherwise indicated Dap 2,3-Diaminopropionic acid Dapy 2,6-Diaminopyridine DCM dichloromethane Deg Diethylglycine D-Ga D-Glucosamine Dip 3,3-Diphenylalanine DiPa 3,5-Diiodo-4-Pyridone-1-acetic acid DIPEA diisopropylethylamine DMF dimethylformamide Edp 4,4′-Ethylenedipiperidine Edt 4,4′-Ethylenedi-m-toluidine F 5 -Phe 3-(Pentafluorophenyl)-alanine Fala 2-Furylalanine FMOC 9-Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl Fpp 1-(4-Fluorophenyl)piperazine Gaba 4-Aminobutyric Acid Gba 4-Guanidinobenzoic acid HATU O-(7-azabenzotriazolyl)-1,1,3,3-tetramethyluronuim hexafluorophosphate HBTU O-(benzotriazol-1-yl)-1,1,3,3-tetramethyluronuim hexafluorophosphate Hca Hydrocinnamic acid (3-phenylpropionic acid) hCys homocysteine Hep 1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine hLys homolysine HOAT 1-hydroxy-7-azabenzotriazole Htic 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-7-hydroxy-3-carboxylic acid Htqa 4-Hydroxy-7-Trifluoromethyl-3-quinoline carboxylic acid Hyd Hydralazine Hyp 4-Hydroxyproline Iaa N-(3-Indolylacetyl)-L-Alanine Iia 2-Imino-1-imidazolidine acetic acid Ina N-(3-Indolylacetyl)L-Phenylalanine Inc Indoline-2-Carboxylic Acid Inic Isonicotinic acid Inip Isonipecotic acid Ipa 3-Indole Propionic Acid 1-Iqc 1-Isoquinolinecarboxylic acid 3-Iqc 3 Isoquinolinecarboxylic acid 5-Iqs 5-Isoquinoline sulfonic Acid Lys with its ε amino group substituted with R 3 and R 4 Lys(diEt) Lys with its ε amino group disubstituted by two ethyl groups Lys(iPr) Lys with its ε amino group monosubstituted by an isopropyl group Maa a mercaptoalkyl amine of the formula HS—(CH 2 ) n —NH 2 , wherein n is 2-6; Maaab a o-, m-, or p-(mercaptoalkyl)(aminoalkyl)benzene of the formula wherein m and n each is, independently, 0, 1, or 2. Mac a mercaptoalkyl carboxylic acid of the formula HS—(CH 2 ) n —COOH, wherein n is 2-6; Macab a o-, m-, or p-(mercaptoalkyl)(carboxyalkyl)benzene of the formula wherein m and n each is, independently, 0, 1, or 2. MBHA 4-methylbenzhydrylamine Me-Trp Trp with its indolyl nitrogen substituted with methyl Mim Mimosine Mnf 5-(4-methyl-2-nitrophenyl)-2-furoic acid Mpip 1-Methylpiperazine 4-Mqc 4-methoxy-2-quinolinecarboxylic acid Nal 3-(2-naphthyl)-alanine, unless otherwise indicated Nip Nipecotic acid Nle norleucine Nua Nicotinuric acid O-Bzl the benzyloxy radical Orn ornithine Orn with its amino group substituted with R 3 and R 4 Pal 3-(3-Pyridyl)-alanine, unless otherwise indicated 2-Pala 2-Pyridylalanine 3-Pala 3-Pyridylalanine 4-Pala 4-Pyridylalanine Pap 4′-piperazinoacetophenone Pen penicillamine Pgly Propargylglycine Phg phenylglycine Pip pipecolinic acid 4-Pip-Ala 3-(4-piperidyl)alanine 4-Pip-Gly (4-piperidyl)glycine Pnf para-Nitro-phenylalanine (i.e., 4-Nitro-phenylalanine) Ppc 4-Phenylpiperidine-4-carboxylic Acid Pyp 3-pyridine propionic acid Sala Styrylalanine Sar sarcosine (i.e., N-methylglycine) Thi Thiaproline 2-Thia 2-Thienylalanine 3-Thia 3-Thienylalanine Thn 1, 2, 3, 4-Tetrahydro-2-naphthoic acid Thnc 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydronorbarman-3-carboxylic acid Thza 4-Thiazolylalanine Tic 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-3-isoquinolinecarboxylic acid Tmpa 3-(p-thiomethylphenyl)-alanine Tpa 3-(p-thiophenyl)-alanine Tpr Thioproline Tra Tranexamic acid TrPa Tryptamine X-Phe phenylalanine with p-, o- or m-substituents X on its benzene ring, e.g., 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-alanine z carbobenzyloxy Administration of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of a compound covered by formula (I) into a patient whose disorder arises from biochemical activity induced by NMB or somatostatin is also within the present invention. In other words, the peptides can be provided in the form of pharmaceutically acceptable salts, e.g., acid addition salts, or metal complexes, e.g., with zinc, iron or the like. Illustrative examples of acid addition salts are those with organic acids such as acetic, lactic, pamoic, maleic, citric, malic, ascorbic, succinic, benzoic, palmitic, suberic, salicylic, tartric, methanesulfonic or toluenesulfonic acid, those with polymeric acids such as tannic acid or carboxymethyl cellulose, and those with inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid. Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, and also from the claims. It is believed that one skilled in the art can, based on the description herein, utilize the present invention to its fullest extent. The following specific embodiments are therefore to be construed as merely illustrative and not limitative of the remainder of the disclosure in any way whatsoever. All of the documents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In a preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula II, wherein AA 1 is absent, Ac-D-Phe, or the D- or L- isomer of R 11 , Pip, Pro, or Ser, or of an aromatic α-amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cpa, Dip, Nal, Pal, and Phe; AA 2 is Aic, Pal, Phe, F 5 -Phe, 4-NO 2 -Phe, Trp, Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), or absent; AA 3 is the D- or L- isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Pen, Cys, hCys and Tmpa; AA 4 is the D- or L-isomer of Trp or of His; AA 5 is Lys, hLys, N-Me-Lys, Orn, cis-4-Acha or 4-Pip-Ala; AA 6 is the D- or L-isomer of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cys, hCys, Pen and Tmpa; AA 7 is A3c, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aic, β-Ala, Gaba, Nle, F 5 -Phe, Phe, Pro, Sar, Ser, Thr, Thr(Bzl), Tyr, Val or absent; and AA 8 is R 11 , Nal, Thr, Thr(Bzl), Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), or absent; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In a more preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to the immediately foregoing, wherein AA 1 is absent or the D- or L- isomer of R 11 , Pip or Pro, or of an aromatic α-amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cpa, Dip, Nal, Pal, Phe, and Ac-Phe; AA 2 is Tyr, Pal, Phe, 4-NO 2 -Phe, Trp, or absent, AA 3 is a D- or L-isomer of Cys or Pen; AA 4 is D-Trp; AA 5 is Lys, Orn, or cis-4-Acha; AA 6 is a D- or L-isomer of Cys or Pen; AA 7 is A3c, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aic, β -Ala, Gaba, Nle, Phe, Pro, Sar, Thr, Thr(Bzl), Tyr, Val, or absent; and AA 8 is R 11 , Thr, Tyr, Nal, or absent; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In another preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula III, wherein AA 1 is R 11 , Aic, Hca, Pro, Ser, Ser(Bzl), Trp, Tyr, or a D- or L-isomer of an aromatic α-amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cpa, Nal, Ac-Nal, Phe, Ac-Phe, 4-NO 2 -Phe, and Ac-4-NO 2 -Phe; AA 2 is Pal, Phe, F 5 -Phe, Tyr, or absent; AA 3 is a D- or L-isomer of Cys, hCys, Pen or Tmpa; AA 3b is Pal, 4-Pal, His, Trp, Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), Phe, or R 11 ; AA 4 is a D- or L-isomer of Trp or His; AA 5 is Lys, N-Me-Lys, Orn, hLys, cis-4-Acha, or 4-Pip-Ala; AA 6 is a D- or L-isomer of Cys, hCys, Pen or Tmpa; AA 7 is R 11 , A4c, A5c, Abu, β-Ala, Gaba, Phe, F 5 -Phe, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Phe(4-O-Bzl), or absent; AA 7b , is R 11 , Nal, F 5 -Phe, X 0 -Phe or absent, wherein X 0 is halogen, NO 2 , CH 3 , OH, Bzl or O-Bzl; and AA 8 is R 11 , Nal, Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), or absent; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In a more preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to the immediately foregoing, wherein AA 1 is R 11 , Aic, Hca, Pro, Ser(Bzl), or a D- or L-isomer of an aromatic α-amino acid selected from the group consisting of Cpa, Nal, Ac-Nal, Phe, Ac-Phe, 4-NO 2 -Phe, and Ac-4-NO 2 -Phe; AA 2 is Pal, Tyr, or absent; AA 3 is a D- or L-isomer of Cys or Pen; AA 3b is R 11 , Pal, 4-Pal, Trp, Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), or Phe, wherein R 11 is (T)aeg; AA 4 is D-Trp; AA 5 is Lys, N-Me-Lys, Orn, or cis-4-Acha; AA 6 is a D- or L-isomer of Cys or Pen; AA 7 is R 11 , A5c, Abu, Ser(Bzl), Thr, Thr(Bzl), Phe(4-O-Bzl), Gaba, or absent; AA 7b is Nal, X 0 -Phe or absent; and AA 8 is Tyr or absent; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In yet another preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula IV, wherein AA 1 is Aic, Hyp, Cpa, D-Cpa, Nal, Pal, Phe, Pro, R 11 , Tyr or absent; AA 2 is Phe, Trp, F 5 -Phe, His, Tyr, Phe(4-O-Bzl), or R 11 ; AA is a D-isomer of Trp, His, or Pal; AA 4 is Lys, N-Me-Lys, Orn, hLys, cis-4-Acha, or 4-Pip-Ala; AA 5 is Pal, Phe(4-O-Bzl), Thr(Bzl), Thr, Sar, Gaba, β-Ala, A4c, A5c, A6c, Abu, Aic or absent; AA 6 is Thr, Tyr, Ser, F 5 -Phe, Cpa, Nal, or D- or L-Phe; AA 7 is Nal, Pal, or absent; and AA 8 is R 11 ; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In yet another more preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to the immediately foregoing, wherein AA 1 is Cpa, Nal, Pal, Phe, Tyr or absent; AA 2 is Phe, Tyr, Trp, or R 11 ; AA 3 is D-Trp; AA 4 is Lys, N-Me-Lys, or cis-4-Acha; AA 5 is Pal, Phe(4-O-Bzl), Aic, Gaba, A5c or absent; AA 6 is Thr, Nal, or D- or L-Phe; AA 7 is absent; and AA 8 is R 11 ; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In still yet another preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula II, wherein R 1 and R 5 are absent and the N-terminal amino acid and the C-terminal amino acid together form an amide bond; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In still yet another preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula III), wherein R 1 and R 5 are absent and the N-terminal amino acid and the C-terminal amino acid together form an amide bond; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In a most preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula II, wherein said compound is of the formula: Ac-D-Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-NH 2 ; Nal-Tyr-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-Nal-NH 2 ; Nal-Tyr-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Dip-Tyr-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 ; Dip-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 : Nal-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 ; Dip-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-Nal-NH 2 ; Nal-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-Nal-NH 2 ; cyclo(D-Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr); Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A3c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A6c-Nal-NH 2 ; (G(z))aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-β-Ala-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Sar-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Gaba-Nal-NH 2 ; or Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Pro-Nal-NH 2 ; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In another most preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula II, wherein said compound is of the formula: Phe-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr-NH 2 ; Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-NH 2 ; Ac-D-Phe-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Thr-NH 2 ; Nal-Tyr-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-Nal-N H 2 ; Nal-Tyr-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 ; Dip-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 ; Nal-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 ; Dip-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-Nal-NH 2 ; Nal-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-Nal-N H 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A3c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A6c-Nal-NH 2 ; (G (z))aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Cpa-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A5c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-β-Ala-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Sar-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Aic-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Gaba-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Pro-Nal-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-(A)aeg-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-A4c-Nal-NH 2 ; Cpa-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; Pro-Phe-cyclo(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Val-NH 2 ; Pro-Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Val-NH 2 ; Pip-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Nle-NH 2 ; (G)aeg-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)(G)aeg-NH 2 ; (C)aeg-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-(G)aeg-NH 2 ; Pro-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nle-Phe-NH 2 ; Pro-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr-Nle-NH 2 ; Pro-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr-Phe-NH 2 ; Cpa-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Gaba-NH 2 ; Cpa-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Gaba-Tyr-NH 2 ; Pip-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-N H 2 ; Pip-Phe-c(Cys-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)Gaba-NH 2 ; or Pro-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr-NH 2 ; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In yet another most preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula III, wherein said compound is of the formula: Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Phe-cyclo(Cys-Tyr-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; Ac-D4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr->Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-Phe(4-O-Bzl)-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-N H 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-NH 2 ; D4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 : Pro-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Nal-NH 2 ; Ser(Bzl)-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-N H 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 : (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-(T)aeg-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Ser(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Phe(4-O-Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-A5c-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-(T)aeg-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (C)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 : D-Cpa-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(Pen-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-N H 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Trp-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-N H 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Orn-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-hLys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-lamp-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Cha(4-am)-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Ser(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 : (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)Thr(Bzl)D-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Trp-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-c(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Pen)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (C)aeg-c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Ina-c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Mnf-c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Inp-c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 : Nua-c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Pyp-c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; c(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-Pal-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-Pal-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Tyr(Bzl)Thr-NH 2 ; (C)aeg-Phe-c(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-D-Trp-c(D-Cys-Pal-Lys-D-Cys)Thr(Bzl)-Leu-NH 2 ; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In still yet another most preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula III, wherein said compound is of the formula: Hca-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; Ac-Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; Ac-D-Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; Ac-D-Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-N al-N H 2 ; Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Phe-cyclo(Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 : Ac-D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-Pal-cyclo(D-Cys-Phe(4-O-Bzl)-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; 4-NO 2 -Phe-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-Nal-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Pro-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Nal-NH 2 ; Ser(Bzl)-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-N H 2 ; (C)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; Aic-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (C(z))aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (A(z))aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (A)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (G)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-4-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-(T)aeg-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 : (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)Ser(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Phe(4-O-Bzl)-Tyr-N H 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-A5c-Tyr-N H 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Abu-Tyr-NH 2 ; D-Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-(T)aeg-D-Trp-Lys-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-p-Me-Phe-NH 2 ; Ac-(T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; (T)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Nal-NH 2 ; D-Cpa-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)Nal-NH 2 ; (A)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; or (C)aeg-cyclo(D-Cys-Pal-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Thr(Bzl)-Tyr-NH 2 ; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In still another most preferred embodiment the invention features a compound according to Formula IV, wherein said compound is of the formula: cyclo(Trp-D-Trp-Lys-Phe(4-O-Bzl)-Phe-T)aeg); cyclo(Trp-D-Trp-Lys-Pal-Phe-(T)aeg); or cyclo(Phe-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Thr-(T)aeg); or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Preparation of Peptides Peptides were synthesized on Rink Amide MBHA resin, (4-(2′,4′-dimethoxyphenyl-Fmoc-aminomethyl)-phenoxyacetamido-norleucyl-MBHA resin), using a standard solid phase protocol of FMOC chemistry and cleaved with a TFA/Phenol/H 2 O/triisoproylsilane (83 ml/5 g/10 ml/2 ml) mixture. Peptides were cyclized in CH 3 CN/H 2 O (5 ml/5 ml) using EKATHIOX™ resin (EKAGEN Corporation, San Carlos, Calif.) and purified on C 18 silica (Rainin Instruments Co., Woburn, Mass., now Varian Analytical, Walnut Creek, Calif.), using acetonitrile/0.1% trifluoroacefic acid buffers. Homogeneity was assessed by analytical HPLC and mass spectrometry and was determined to be >95% for each peptide. Peptides having general structure that is, having a cyclic tetra- or pentapeptyl backbone, were synthesized on Rink Amide MBHA resin, (4-(2′,4′-dimethoxyphenyl-Fmoc-aminomethyl)-phenoxyacetamidonor-leucyl-MBHA resin), following a standard solid phase protocol of Fmoc-chemistry until the desired peptide was assembled. Final cleavage/deprotection was achieved by the treatment of the peptide-resin with a cocktail of TFA/Phenole/H 2 O/Triisopropylsilane (83:5:10:2 mL/g/mL/ml. Cyclization (S—S bond formation) was achieved by dissolving the linear peptide in a 50% mixture of CH 3 CN/H 2 O, except where otherwise indicated, followed by the addition of 2.5 eq. of EKATHIOX resin then stirring overnight. Peptides were purified on C 18 silica column using acetonitrile/0.1% TFA buffer. Homogeneity was assessed by analytical HPLC and MAS spectrometry and was determined to be >95% for each peptide except where otherwise indicated. Peptides having a carboxylic function at their C-Terminal were synthesized on Wang resin (p-Benzyloxybenzyl Alcohol resin), cleaved from resin and deprotected by cocktail B (TFA:Phenole:H 2 O:Triisopropylsilane in the ratio 88:5:5:2). Head-To-Tail cyclic peptides having the general structure of were synthesized first as a totally protected linear peptide on 2-chlorotrityl chloride resin. The first Fmoc deprotection was carried out using 5% piperidine in DMF/DCM (1:1) for about 10 minutes followed by 25% piperidine in DMF for about 15 minutes. All subsequent deprotections were performed using a standard solid phase protocol of FMOC chemistry. Protected linear peptides were obtained by treating the resin with acetic acid/TFE/DCM (1:1:8 by vol.) for about 60 minutes at room temperature. Head-to-tail cyclization was achieved using HATU/HOAT/DIPEA as the coupling/cyclization reagent The all-protected cyclic peptide was treated with a cocktail of TFA/Phenole/H 2 O/Triisopropylsilane (83:5:10:2 mL/g/mL/mL) for about 2½ hours to achieve final deprotection. Peptides were purified on C 18 silica column using acetonitrile/0.1% TFA buffer as eluant. Homogeneity was assessed by analytical HPLC and MAS spectrometry and was determined to be>97% pure for each peptide. As noted above, certain compounds of the invention incorporate one or more of the amino acid moiety R 11 , having the structure wherein R 12 , X 1 , X 2 , X 3 , X 4 , m, n, and p each is as defined in the claims. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art of chemical synthesis that the various R 11 amino acids may be readily synthesized using appropriate starting materials and known synthesis procedures. Examples of pertinent procedures may be found in the following publications, hereby incorporated by reference: aminoethylglycine: Tetrahedron, vol. 51, pp. 6179 (1995); Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters, vol 5, No. 11, p. 1159 (1995); Tetrahedron, vol. 53, no. 43, p. 14671 (1997); Nucleosides, Nucleotides, vol. 16 (10 & 11), p. 1893 (1997); α-α-dialkylated amino acid with nucleobase side chain, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, vo. 92, p. 12013 (1995); aminocyclohexylglycine, Chem. Eur. J. vol. 3. No. 6, p. 912 (1997); α-N-Boc-α-N-(thymin-1-ylacetyl)omithine, Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters, vol. 6, no. 7, p. 793 (1996); substituted proline, J. Chem. Soc. Perkin. Trans., vol 1, pp. 539, 547, 555 (1997); N-(aminomethyl)- β -alanine, Tetrahedron Left., vol. 36, No. 38, p. 6941 (1995); substituted omithine, Nucleosides & Nucleotides, vol 17 (1-3), pp. 219, 339 (1998); structure vi., Tetrahedron Left., Vol. 36, no 10, p. 1713 (1995); Tetrahedron Lett, Vol. 38, no 48, p. 8363 (1997); structure v., Tetrahedron Left., Vol 39, p. 4707 (1998); compound iv., J. Amer. Chem. Soc., vol. 119, p. 11116 (1997); aminoproline, Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Left., vol. 7, no. 6, p. 681 (1997); chiral polynucleic acid, Tetrahedron Lett., vol. 35, no. 29, p. 5173 (1994); Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Lett., vol. 4, no. 8, p. 1077 (1994). Below is a detailed description regarding the synthesis of Analog #1. Other peptides of the invention can be prepared by making appropriate modifications, within the ability of someone of ordinary skill in the art of peptide synthesis. Step 1: Preparation of Fmoc-Nal-O-tert-Butyl-Tyr-S-trityl-D-Cys-N-in-t-Boc-D-Trp-N-ε-t-Boc-Lys-S-trityl-D-Cys-Abu-Nal-4-(2′,4′-Dimethoxphenylamino methyl)phenoxyacetamido-norluacyl-4-methylbenzhydrylamine resin. Rink amide MBHA resin (Novabiochem, Inc., San Diego, Calif.), 1 g, (0.53 mmole), was placed in reaction vessel #1 (RV-1) of a Model 90 peptide synthesizer, (Advanced ChemTech, Louisville, Ky.). The peptide synthesizer was programmed to perform the following reaction cycle: a. Dimethylformamide; b. 25% piperidine in dimethylformamide (2 times for 15 minutes each, with 1 time wash with DMF in between); c. DMF washes (3×10 mL, 1 minute each); The resin was stirred with FMOC-Nal (2.12 mmol), 2-(1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)-1,1,3,3-tetramethyluronium hexafluorophosphate (HBUT) (2.01 mmole), and diisopropylethyl amino (4.24 mmole) in dimethylformamide for about 1½ hours and the resulting amino acid resin was then cycled through steps (a) to (c) in the above wash program. The Nal-resin was coupled with Fmoc-Abu, then cycled as described above. It was dried under vacuum. The following amino acids (1.4 mmole) were coupled successively to the peptide resin (0.35 mmole), by the same procedure: Fmoc-S-Trityl-D-Cys, Fmoc-N-ε-t-Boc-Lys, Fmoc-N-in-t-Boc-D-Trp. The peptide resin, after drying under vacuum, was split and one portion coupled with Fmoc-S-Trityl-D-Cys, Fmoc-O-t-butyl-Tyr. The coupled portion was split again and one portion coupled with Fmoc-Nal. After washing with DMF (3×10 mL, 1 minute each) and drying under vacuum, the completed resin weighed 0.242 g. Step 2: Preparation of H-Nal-Tyr-D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys-Abu-Nal-NH 2 The peptide resin obtained from Step 1 (0.24 g, 0.087 mmole) was mixed with a freshly prepared solution of TFA (8.8 mL), phenol (0.5 g), H 2 O (0.5 mL) and triisopropylsilane (0.2 mL) at room temperature and stirred for about 2½ hours. Excess TFA was evaporated under reduced pressure to an oily residue. Ether was then added to the oily residue and the free linear peptide was precipitated, filtered, then washed with dry ether. The crude peptide was then dissolved in 11 mL of CH 3 CN/H 2 O/0.1 N HOAc (5 mL/5 mL/1 mL), followed by the addition of 200 mg EKATHIOX® resin. The mixture was stirred overnight and then filtered. The filtrate was evaporated to a small volume then applied to a column (22-250 mm) of microsorb octadecylsilane silica (5 μm), followed by elution with a linear gradient (30% to 80%, 30 minutes) of acetonitrile in water, in which both solvents have 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid. Fractions were examined by analytical high performance liquid chromatography (“HPLC”) and pooled to give maximum purity. Lyophilization of the solutions from water gave 10 mg of the product as a white, fluffy powder. The product was found to be homogeneous by HPLC C 18 silica using the same eluant as immediately above, (tR=16.646 minutes). Infusion mass spectrometry confirmed the composition of the cyclic octapeptide; (MW 1178.45). OTHER EMBODIMENTS From the above description, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of the present invention, and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications of the invention to adapt it to various uses and conditions. Thus, other embodiments are also within the claims.
A novel class of analogs which exhibit both high affinity and selectivity for Neuromedin B and Somatostann receptors are claimed. One example is Nal-Tyr-cyclo(D-Cys-D-Trp-Lys-D-Cys)-Abu-Nal-NH 2 .
2
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims the benefit of Netherlands Patent Application No. 2009050 entitled “Device for Blocking a Vehicle, Method Therefore and Loading-Unloading Station Provided Therewith” filed Jun. 21, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to a device for blocking a vehicle such as a truck. Such devices are generally used in practice to block a truck during loading and unloading thereof, for instance at a loading-unloading station of a distribution centre. [0004] 2. Description of Related Art [0005] Devices for blocking trucks are per se known and are for instance described in EP 1 120 371 and EP 0 684 915. The blocking device known herefrom makes use of a drive to displace a carriage over a guide track. As soon as the truck is positioned correctly relative to the loading-unloading station a blocking means is extended and/or displaced in order to hold the rear wheel of the truck therewith and make driving or rolling away impossible. Such blocking devices are relatively complex due to the number of parts required, and particularly the drives required. [0006] A blocking device is also known from NL 2004466. The blocking device known herefrom makes use of displacing means to displace a carriage from a first rest position to a second blocking position, wherein use is made of an energy storage system such that energy produced by the first vehicle as it drives away can be used to displace the carriage for a second vehicle. [0007] A problem occurring in practice with blocking devices is the great variation in vehicles which can occur. Different vehicles have different wheel diameters. The blocking device does not therefore operate optimally for all vehicles, whereby locations provided with a blocking device, such as at a distribution centre, cannot be employed with full flexibility for all types of vehicle. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0008] The present invention has for its object to obviate or at least reduce the above stated problems with blocking devices. [0009] The present invention provides for this purpose a device for blocking a vehicle, comprising a guide track disposed along a driveway; a blocking means for blocking a wheel of the vehicle; and height-adjusting means for height adjustment of the guide track and/or the blocking means during use. [0013] A guide track according to the invention is for instance disposed along a driveway of a loading-unloading station of for instance a distribution center. A truck is reverse parked along the guide track for the purpose of loading and unloading. [0014] In the blocking position the blocking means, which in a currently preferred embodiment is provided on the carriage guided by the guide track, preferably engages on the rear wheel of a vehicle which is moving backwards relative to the device. Alternatively, the blocking means is for instance provided directly on the guide track. [0015] The blocking means preferably takes the form of a type of rod extending substantially in a direction away from the longitudinal direction of the guide track such that no rotating or folding movement need be performed in order to carry the blocking means to the activated and blocking position in which the vehicle is held fast. [0016] Further provided according to the invention are height-adjusting means with which the guide track can be adjusted in the height during use. Height adjustment of the guide track results in the guide track, and the blocking means directly or indirectly connected thereto, being adjusted in the height relative to the ground surface, and thereby relative to the vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the height-adjusting means can also directly adjust the blocking means in the height. Use can for instance be made here of a substantially vertical and/or rotation movement of the blocking means relative to the for instance fixedly disposed guide track. [0017] The blocking means can for instance be brought to the correct height in hydraulic manner by the height-adjusting means. In such an embodiment the guide track can if desired be disposed fixedly. It would in principle be possible in such an embodiment to optionally dispense with a guide track, although this will result in drawbacks in respect of positioning the vehicle and/or blocking means. Alternatively or additionally, a guide track can be provided in height-adjustable manner with an adjustability over a determined range in continuous or discontinuous manner (for instance using bolts and a predetermined pattern of holes). [0018] By providing height-adjusting means the blocking means can engage at a desired height on the wheel of the vehicle. The height-adjusting means are adapted here to the vehicle for blocking. This can be performed manually by a driver and/or a location manager, for instance an employee of the distribution center, as well as automatically. The engaging height of the blocking means on the wheel of the vehicle for blocking is hereby adapted to the type of vehicle. This increases the possible uses of the device according to the invention. It is also possible to adapt the actual engaging height of the blocking means to the blocking requirement, for instance a relatively low engaging height in order to prevent the vehicle rolling away during loading and/or unloading, and for instance a relatively high engaging height in order to prevent unauthorized driving away with the vehicle during parking of the vehicle. This enhances the applicability and the possible uses of the device according to the invention. [0019] In a currently preferred embodiment the device is provided with a carriage which is displaceable relative to the guide track such that the carriage can follow a moving truck. Preferably provided on the carriage is a locking member with which the carriage can be releasably locked relative to the guide track. The locking member preferably engages directly on the guide track. It is however also possible for the locking member to engage on for instance a ground surface on which the guide track is placed. The carriage is in this way also locked relative to the guide track. Using the displacing means the carriage can be moved from a first rest position, in which blocking of the vehicle is realized, to a second blocking position in which it is possible, following locking of the carriage relative to the guide track, to block the vehicle such that it is held stationary at the desired position. The displacing means further enable a reverse movement of the carriage after unlocking from the second blocking position such that the carriage returns to the first rest position. The vehicle can leave said position by being driven away from the blocking device. [0020] In a preferred embodiment the locking can be realized immediately after the vehicle has come to a standstill by having the carriage co-displace with the tire of the vehicle. [0021] The height-adjusting means preferably engage directly or indirectly at least at one position on the guide track and/or the blocking means. [0022] When the height-adjusting means engage directly on the blocking means, it is for instance possible to adjust a blocking means displaceable along the guide track in the height relative to the guide track using the height-adjusting means. A height-adjustable blocking means can hereby be provided at the desired position. [0023] If the height-adjusting means engage at one position on the guide track, the guide track can be placed at an adjustable angle relative to the ground surface when the height-adjusting means engage on or close to an outer end of the guide track. An alternative and/or additional embodiment is likewise possible wherein the height-adjusting means engage at one position on the guide track and the guide track as a whole is adjusted in the height using additional guides, for instance by displacing the guide track as a whole in the height. If the guide track is adjustable at an angle, the height of the blocking means can likewise be adapted to the wheel of the vehicle to be blocked. In a possible embodiment one outer end of the guide track is provided rotatably around a fastening point and height-adjusting means engage on the other outer end. [0024] In an advantageous preferred embodiment according to the present invention the height-adjusting means engage directly or indirectly at a second position on the guide track. [0025] Having the height-adjusting means engage at a second position on the guide track achieves that the whole guide track is adjustable in the height in controllable manner relative to the ground surface. A matching relation between a blocking means and the wheel to be blocked of the vehicle for blocking can hereby be achieved in accurate manner. [0026] In an advantageous preferred embodiment according to the present invention the device is provided with height-adjustable coupling means for fixing or holding the guide track at a desired height. [0027] Providing coupling means enables the guide track to be positioned at a nominal working height. These coupling means are for instance embodied as a bolt connection to an upright to which the guide track can be attached at a number of adjustable nominal fixed positions. This has the advantage that the nominal guide track height is adjustable subject to the anticipated category of vehicles, for instance delivery vans or trucks. Variation within these categories of vehicle can also be taken into account by applying the height-adjusting means according to the invention. When after a period of time a different category of vehicle has to be blocked, the nominal working height can be modified using the coupling means. This further increases the flexibility of the device according to the present invention. [0028] In an advantageous preferred embodiment according to the present invention the device comprises an anti-roll mode, wherein the blocking means engages at a first height, and a locking mode wherein the blocking means engages at a second, greater height. [0029] Providing a first rolling locking mode and a second locking mode enables the blocking means, depending on the situation, to engage at the optimum height. It has been found that during loading and unloading of a vehicle a blocking has the main purpose of preventing the vehicle from rolling away. For this purpose the blocking means has to engage on the wheel for blocking at a height of preferably at least 35% of the wheel diameter. If a vehicle is parked at the position for a longer period, for instance overnight, it is additionally desirable to prevent undesired movement of the vehicle, i.e. it is locked. The blocking means must here engage high on the wheel, preferably at least at 45% of the wheel diameter. It has been found that at this greater height it is no longer possible to displace the vehicle as it were over the blocking means. The selection of the setting for the anti-roll mode or the locking mode can be made by the driver of the vehicle and/or the employee of the loading-unloading station where the device is positioned, or in a more automatic manner wherein the setting is for instance made dependent on the use of the loading-unloading station. A coupling is present for this purpose between the control of the loading-unloading station on the one hand and the blocking device on the other. The use of at least two different adjustable heights achieves that the blocking can be made dependent on the wishes of the users. Engagement at a lower height as anti-rolling has the advantage that it can be performed relatively easily and quickly, wherein the attendant risk of damage is reduced. For locking purposes, for instance overnight, a greater height has to be employed so that there is actual locking. A careful positioning can be carried out for this purpose. The overall effectiveness of blocking means according to the invention is hereby increased. [0030] In a further advantageous preferred embodiment according to the present invention the device comprises a detector for detecting the required engaging height of the blocking means. [0031] Providing a detector allows the setting of the height-adjusting means to be performed in automatic or semiautomatic manner. This reduces the chance of mistakes. [0032] In a currently preferred embodiment the detector comprises determining means which are provided with at least a first contact means on a first side of the wheel and a second contact means on the other side of the wheel as seen in the travel direction thereof during use of the device. These contact means are for instance embodied as rollers engaging on the tread surface of the wheel. By determining the mutual distance between the at least two contact means while they are in contact with the wheel, and also the height of the contact means relative to the ground surface over which the wheel moves, it is possible to determine the diameter of the wheel for blocking. On the basis of the wheel height, and preferably in combination with the selection between the possible modes, including the locking mode and the anti-roll mode, the detector is hereby able to determine the required effective engaging height for the blocking means. A user-friendly device can in this way be realized according to the invention. In addition, an effective blocking means is realized through the use of the detector, wherein there is no loss of time waiting for a setting, since the detector is preferably operative during positioning of the vehicle relative to the guide track. [0033] In a further advantageous preferred embodiment according to the present invention the blocking means is provided on a displaceable carriage guided by the guide track. [0034] A flexible positioning of the blocking means relative to the vehicle is possible due to the use of the above discussed carriage. This makes use in practice a good deal easier. The carriage can be driven in various ways, including making use of a flexible member, such as a steel cable, and other similar ways as described in NL 2004466. The blocking device according to the present invention preferably makes use of a locking member, likewise as according to NL 2004466. [0035] In a further advantageous preferred embodiment according to the present invention the device comprises displacing means for displacing the carriage between a first rest position of the blocking means and a second blocking position, wherein the displacing means are provided with an energy storage system such that energy supplied by the vehicle is usable to displace the carriage. [0036] The use of an energy storage system for a blocking device is per se known from the above cited document NL 2004466. The height-adjusting means are preferably also operatively connected to the energy storage system for the purpose of displacing the guide track in the height. Potential energy can hereby be recovered in effective manner during the downward movement of the guide track and subsequently used for a subsequent vehicle during the upward movement of the guide track. An energy-efficient device is in this way realized. [0037] The present invention further relates to a loading-unloading station provided with a device as described above. [0038] Such a loading-unloading station provides the same effects and advantages as described in respect of the device. In addition, the use of the height-adjusting means makes it possible to use each individual station for all categories and types of vehicle. This further increases the utility of such a station. [0039] The present invention further also relates to a method for blocking a vehicle in a desired position, comprising of providing a device as described above. [0040] Such a method likewise provides the same effects and advantages as described in respect of the device and/or the loading-unloading station. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0041] Further advantages, features and details of the invention are elucidated on the basis of preferred embodiments thereof, wherein reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0042] FIG. 1 shows a view of a loading-unloading station at a distribution centre; [0043] FIGS. 2A-F show views of a first embodiment of the blocking device according to the invention; [0044] FIGS. 3A-F show views of alternative embodiments according to the invention; [0045] FIGS. 4A-B show views of a further embodiment according to the present invention; and [0046] FIGS. 5A-B and 6 A-B show views of a further embodiment according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0047] A loading-unloading location 2 ( FIG. 1 ) is provided at a building 4 . Each loading-unloading location 2 is provided with an opening or door 6 and a so-called dock shelter 8 for protection thereof. A truck 10 is reversed to loading-unloading location 2 , inter alia with rear wheels 12 . Truck 10 moves here substantially parallel to blocking device 14 . [0048] A blocking device 16 ( FIG. 2A-F ) is placed on the ground surface 18 . Device 16 is provided with guide track 20 which in the shown embodiment can be adjusted in the height relative to ground surface 18 using height-adjusting means 22 . Height-adjusting means 22 comprise an arm 24 , which is connected to support 28 on ground surface 18 using rotation shaft 26 , and a second arm 30 which is connected to second support 34 on ground surface 18 using second rotation shaft 32 . At the other outer ends the arms 24 , 30 are connected via respective rotation shafts 32 , 34 to guide track 20 . [0049] Provided in the shown embodiment on the front side of device 16 is an element 36 running obliquely upward and, at the other outer end of guide track 20 , a second rectangular element 38 for the purpose of indicating the position of device 16 . On the side where a wheel W is driven into device 16 , usually in reverse, is situated a ground plate 40 in which, in the shown embodiment, two recesses 42 , 44 are provided in which a first contact rod 46 and a second contact rod 48 are provided in the rest position ( FIG. 2A ). As soon as a wheel W reaches ground plate 40 , carriage 50 with contact elements 46 , 48 is uncoupled from ground plate 40 and, using wheels or rollers 52 , displaced in guide 54 of guide track 20 . In the shown embodiment contact means 46 , 48 also form blocking means. [0050] In the shown embodiment contact means 46 , 48 are in contact on either side with wheel W during use. Contact means 46 is mounted here on sub-part 56 of carriage 50 and contact means 48 on sub-part 58 of carriage 50 . In the shown embodiment sub-parts 56 , 58 are mutually connected using a spring 60 so that during use contact means 46 , 48 are held against the tread surface of wheel W. [0051] In the shown embodiment rollers 62 form part of the drive and/or locking mechanism in similar manner as described in NL 2004466. [0052] In the shown embodiment the mutual distance between sub-carriages 56 , 58 and the height of contact means 46 , 48 relative to ground surface 18 are determined using detectors 64 , 66 . The desired height adjustment can in this way be determined. [0053] In the shown embodiment wheel W has for instance a diameter of about 1050 mm and a first anti-roll height of guide track 20 is about 350 mm and a second locking height 450 mm ( FIG. 2E ). The adjustment between the different heights is possible via adjusting button 68 . This can otherwise be performed in fully automatic manner. [0054] As soon as wheel W moves backwards over ground plate 40 , contact means 44 , 46 are released and will follow wheel W. Arms 24 , 30 are simultaneously moved such that guide track 20 is carried upward from ground surface 18 as carriage 50 follows wheel W. During following the desired blocking height is determined in the shown embodiment using detectors 64 , 66 and setting 68 . Wheel W is then secured at the desired position. [0055] In an alternative embodiment blocking device 70 ( FIG. 3A-3F ) is for the greater part provided with the same components as the above discussed blocking device 16 . Only the differences will therefore be discussed below. Blocking device 70 is provided on only one side with height-adjusting means 22 . Also provided is a carriage 72 which consists in this embodiment of a single part. It is noted here that blocking device 70 can likewise be provided with a carriage 50 provided with sub-part 56 and sub-part 58 , while blocking device 16 ( FIG. 2A-F ) can also be provided with a single carriage 72 ( FIG. 3A-F ). It is otherwise the case that components of the shown separate embodiments are interchangeable. [0056] Blocking device 70 is further provided with coupling means 74 wherein guide track 76 is connected at one outer end to upright 80 using rotation shaft 78 . In the shown embodiment guide track 76 is in the rest position ( FIG. 3A ) with a first outer end placed on ground surface 18 . Wheel W travels over the ground plate 82 with a recess 84 arranged therein for blocking element 86 , after which blocking element 86 and carriage 72 will follow wheel W, wherein guide track 76 is simultaneously carried upward ( FIG. 3C ). [0057] In the shown embodiment of device 70 guide track 76 is then further displaceable in the height ( FIG. 3E ) by making use of guides 88 on the outer ends of guide track 76 . Guide track 76 can hereby be carried further upward, for instance from a height of about 350 mm to a height of about 450 mm. [0058] It is optionally also possible to provide guide track 76 only with this height-displaceable option, wherein guide track 76 is displaced from ground surface 18 to the desired height, or to provide guide track 76 rotatably only at an outer end, wherein guide track 76 therefore lies at an angle to ground surface 18 in most positions of use. [0059] In the shown embodiment blocking device 70 is embodied such that in a first nominal position ( FIG. 3C and D) guide track 76 is provided at the anti-roll height, wherein blocking element 86 prevents wheel W rolling away during for instance loading and unloading. In a locking position ( FIG. 3E and F) guide track 76 is brought to a greater height such that blocking element 86 locks wheel W against undesired driving away thereof. [0060] A further alternative embodiment of blocking device 90 ( FIG. 4A-B ) is based largely on blocking device 10 ( FIG. 2A-F ). In the shown embodiment blocking device 90 ( FIG. 4A-B ) is provided with a carriage 92 enclosing guide track 94 for the greater part. Blocking element 96 blocks wheel W. Blocking device 90 is provided with guide track 94 on which a guide surface or guide rail 98 is provided over which carriage 92 is displaceable with wheels 100 . Travel wheels 102 enable displacement of carriage 92 over guide track 94 . [0061] Blocking element or blocking rod 96 engages on tread surface 104 of wheel W. In the shown embodiment travel wheels 102 move in bent edge 103 of side edge 105 . [0062] When a truck has to be positioned close to opening 6 of loading-unloading location 2 , it will move first with rear wheel 12 over ground plate 40 in backward direction. The passage of rear wheel W is detected using sensors 106 , 108 , ( FIG. 2A ), after which carriage 50 is released if blocking rod 48 is present in recess 44 , and will follow this wheel 12 in the direction of opening 6 . [0063] Sensors 106 , 108 can be diverse types of sensor, for instance for determining the wheel diameter and/or detecting obstacles such as mudguards. [0064] After reaching the desired loading-unloading position for truck 10 , the locking and/or anti-rolling is activated in the above described manner using control button 68 . Once loading and/or unloading is fully completed, the locking and/or the anti-rolling is disengaged and truck 10 can move forward along guide track 20 . In the advantageous embodiment carriage 20 is pushed forward here such that telescopic springs (not shown) of the energy storage system 110 ( FIG. 2A ) are extended and thereby as it were tensioned. Once truck 10 has reached the front side of guide track 20 , blocking rod 48 is pressed into recess 44 of ground plate 40 . Energy is hereby stored in system 110 and ready for use with a subsequent truck 10 . Use can also be made of telescopic springs during the change in height of guide track 20 , whereby no or only minimal net external energy need be supplied for the purpose of height adjustment of guide track 20 . [0065] In a further alternative embodiment blocking device 112 ( FIG. 5A-B and 6 A-B) is provided with a height-adjustable blocking rod 114 which can engage on wheel W. Guide track 116 is fixedly dispensed and carriage 118 moves substantially only in horizontal direction over guide track 116 . Carriage 118 can be secured in known manner here on guide track 116 using fixation mechanism 120 . Arm 124 on which blocking rod 114 is mounted is rotated around shaft 126 via mechanism 122 . As a result of the rotation the rod 114 is moved in the height relative to the ground surface and the wheel W movable thereon. In the shown embodiment the height-adjustable guide 128 is co-displaced here between a high position ( FIG. 6A and 6B ) and a low position ( FIG. 5A and B), wherein the height varies for instance from 425 mm to 325 mm. Other heights are also possible. It will be apparent that diverse components of the shown embodiments are mutually interchangeable. As already discussed, carriage 20 can for instance also be applied in other embodiments. Ground plate 40 can for instance also be used in other embodiments. The optional use of the energy storage system 110 can likewise be implemented in the different embodiments. Other components can also be used here. [0066] In the shown embodiments guide track is 20 , 94 are provided over a length of about 3 to 3.5 m, and guide track 20 , 94 is adjustable in the height from ground surface 18 to a height of about 500 mm thereabove. Other heights are of course also possible. Intermediate heights are likewise possible in diverse embodiments, wherein specific possibilities are provided for said anti-roll mode and locking mode. [0067] The present invention is by no means limited to the above described preferred embodiments thereof. The rights sought are defined by the following claims, within the scope of which many modifications can be envisaged. It is noted here that diverse mechanical reversals are possible within the scope of protection of the present invention. This relates for instance to tensioning and slackening of spring 60 in blocking device 16 .
Disclosed is a device for blocking a vehicle, a method making use of such a device and a loading-unloading station provided therewith. The device includes a guide track disposed along a driveway, a blocking means for blocking a wheel of the vehicle, and height-adjusting means for height adjustment of the guide track and/or the blocking means during use. The device preferably includes an anti-roll mode, wherein the blocking means engages at a first height, and a locking mode, wherein the blocking means engages at a second, greater height
1
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention concerns the production of paper and paperboard. 2. Brief Description of Related Art Conventional paper or paperboard manufacture involves forming a fibrous stock containing additives such as pigments, fillers and sizing agents and dewatering the stock on a metal or fabric wire to form the basis for the paper or board sheet. Such processes have been subject to the conflicting requirements that ready drainage of the stock should occur and that there should not be undue loss of additives and of fibre from the stock in the course of drainage, that is, that the retention of such additives and fibre on the wire should be high. This acts not only to give a saving in raw material costs and a reduction in the energy required to dry the sheet but also reduces effluent treatment requirements as a result of a lower content of suspended solids, and lower COD and BOD loadings, in the purge water. Sheet formation and surface properties may also be improved. There have been many attempts to optimise drainage and retention properties by the use of combinations of additives, which include polyelectrolytes such as high molecular weight polyacrylamide and its copolymers, which act as flocculants. It has been proposed to use colloidal swelling clays in conjunction with the high molecular weight, relatively low charge density polyacrylamides which have traditionally been used as flocculants, which may be non-ionic, anionic or cationic in nature and may be selected to suit the charge demand of the stock. U.S. Pat. No. 3,052,595, for example, discloses the addition of bentonite to filled stock followed by an acrylamide homopolymer or copolymer which may include at most about 15% by weight of a functional comonomer which may be anionic or cationic in nature, corresponding to a charge density of at most about 2 m.eq./g. The affect of the above combination is that the polymer and the bentonite "are mutually activating whereby increased retention of the filler in the paper web and decreased turbidity of the resulting white water are obtained". More recently, EP-A-0017253 disclosed that the fibre retention and dewatering properties of substantially filler-free stocks may be improved dramatically by including in the stock a high molecular weight polyacrylamide and a bentonite-type clay. The polyacrylamide may contain not more than 10% of either cationic or anionic units and is limited thereby to low charge density material. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,753,710 and 4,913,775 disclose a process, the Hydrocol process, comprising adding a high molecular weight linear cationic polymer to thin stock to form large flocs, subjecting the flocculated suspension to significant shear and adding bentonite to the sheared suspension. It is explained that the effect of shearing is to break the flocs down into microflocs which are sufficiently stable to resist further degradation. A further and more detailed explanation of the Hydrocol process mechanics is provided by the inventor in TAPPI Proceedings, 1986 Papermakers Conference, pages 89-92. On page 90, it is noted that the inventor states that the "key to achieve supercoagulation is to balance the charges and surface area of the pre-treated stock with the charge and surface area of the secondary addition". Furthermore, on column 10, lines 26-43, of U.S. Pat. No. 4,753,710 and column 10, lines 59-66, of U.S. Pat. No. 4,913,775, it is stated that in the process it is essential to use a cationic polymer as the flocculant, rather than a non-ionic or anionic polymer. It is an object of the present invention to provide a process for making paper and paperboard in which the drainage and retention properties of the stock are modified. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, paper or paperboard is made by forming an aqueous cellulosic suspension, passing the cellulosic suspension through one or more shear stages, draining the suspension to form a sheet and drying the sheet, wherein the cellulosic suspension that is drained includes organic polymeric material and inorganic material, wherein said organic polymeric material is a flocculant having a molecular weight above 500,000 is added to the suspension before one of the said shear stages and wherein said inorganic material comprises bentonite which added to the suspension after that shear stage, characterised in that the organic polymeric material comprises a synthetic anionic or non-ionic polymer. Preferably the organic polymer comprises an anionic polymer. The process of the present invention gives an improvement in retention and/or drainage properties comparable with the improvement in properties attained by use of the prior art Hydrocol process, which is surprising when U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,753,710 and 4,913,775 categorically teach that a cationic polymer must be used rather than a non-ionic or anionic polymer and when the charges in the flocculated stock are put further out of balance by the later addition of bentonite. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The amount of bentonite added is generally in the range disclosed on column 10, lines 44 to 46, of U.S. Pat. No. 4,753,710. The bentonite used in the present invention can be any of the anionic swelling clays disclosed on column 10, line 47, to column 11, line 2, of U.S. Pat. No. 4,753,710. The bentonite can have a dry particle size as disclosed on column 11, lines 3 to 11, of U.S. Pat. No. 4,753,710. The bentonite is generally added to the aqueous suspension in the form disclosed on column 11, line 12 to 16, of U.S. Pat. No. 4,753,710. The amount of bentonite that has to be added is generally in the range 0.03 to 0.5%, preferably 0.05 to 0.3% and most preferably 0.08 or 0.1 to 0.2%. The bentonite can be any of the materials commercially referred to as bentonites or as bentonite-type clays, i.e., anionic swelling clays such as sepialite, attapulgite or, preferably, montmorillonite. The montmorilonites are preferred. Bentonites broadly as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,305,781 are suitable. Suitable montmorillonite clays include Wyoming bentonite or Fullers Earth. The clays may or may not be chemically modified, e.g., by alkali treatment to convert calcium bentonite to alkali metal bentonite. The swelling clays are usually metal silicates wherein the metal comprises a metal selected from aluminum and magnesium, and optionally other metals, and the ratio silicon atoms:metal atoms in the surface of the clay particles, and generally throughout their structure, is from 5:1 to 1:1. For most montmorillonites the ratio is relatively low, with most or all of the metal being aluminum but with some magnesium and sometimes with, for instance, a little iron. In other swelling clays however, some or all of the aluminum is replaced by magnesium and the ratio may be very low, for instance about 1.5 in sepialite. The use of silicates in which some of the aluminum has been replaced by iron seems to be particularly desirable. The dry particle size of the bentonite is preferably at least 90% below 100 microns, and most preferably at least 60% below 50 microns (dry size). The surface area of the bentonite before swelling is preferably at least 30 and generally at least 50, typically 60 to 90, m 2 /gm and the surface area after swelling is preferably 400-800 m 2 /g. The bentonite preferably swells by at least 15 or 20 times. The particle size after swelling is preferably at least 90% below 2 microns. The bentonite is generally added to the aqueous suspension as a hydrated suspension in water, typically at a concentration between 1% and 10% by weight. The hydrated suspension is usually made by dispersing powdered bentonite in water. The organic polymer has a molecular weight above 500,000, preferably above 1 million and more preferably above 5 million, such as in the range 10 to 30 million or more. The anionic polymer is a homopolymer or copolymer and more preferably is a partially hydrolysed homopolymer of acrylamide, acrylonitrile or methacrylamide monomers, a partially hydrolysed copolymer of the same monomers alone or a copolymer of the same monomers and acrylic acid and/or methacrylic acid monomers. Particularly suitable polymers include hydrolysed polymers of acrylamide, acrylonitrile and methacrylamide, hydrolysed copolymers of the same monomers, copolymers of acrylamide acrylonitrile and/or methacrylamide and acrylic acid and/or methacrylic acid. The alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts of the polymers are also of use in this invention. The anionic polymer preferably has a relatively low charge density. For example, the charge density of the polymer is preferably below 5 equivalents per kilogram of polymer, more preferably 0.01 to 4, and yet more preferably 0.05 to 3.5. The non-ionic polymer is a homopolymer or copolymer and is preferably a non-hydrolysed polymer, including homopolymers and copoloymers, of acrylamide, methacrylamide, or acrylonitrile or a polyalkoxylate formed from, for example, the condensation of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide or butylene oxides or mixtures thereof. The amount of organic polymer used in the present invention is preferably more than 0.005%, but preferably less than 0.25%, based on the weight of dry stock. Typically, the dosage of polymer will normally be from 0.01% to 0.2%, preferably from 0.01 to 0.1% and more preferably from 0.02 to 0.07%. The shearing stage may be obtained by passing the stock through a cleaning, mixing or pumping stage. Passing the stock through a centriscreen is particularly advantageous, though simple turbulence mixing obtainable by passing the stock along a length of pipeline may be just as effective. Preferably, before addition of the polymer, the cellulosic suspension carries a neutral or anionic demand. Preferably, the cellulosic suspension carries an anionic demand. In one embodiment of the present invention, the stock is initially dosed with a cationic donor, such as alum or most preferably a low molecular weight cationic polymer. The polymeric donor is preferably used in an amount of from 0.01% to 0.25% active product based on stock solids. Typically, such cationic polymeric donors have low molecular weight, e.g. less than 200000, preferably less than 20000, and carry a high cationic charge, e.g. above 70% of the monomers used to form the polymer carry a cationic charge. Polyamines, polyquaternaryamines and polyimidoamine are most preferred, especially homopolymers of amines. The invention is preferably utilised in cationic papermaking systems, which are preferably alkaline or neutral in nature, for the production of writing and printing papers, bond and bank grades, newsprint, linear board, security and computer paper, photocopy paper, sack paper, filler board, white lined carbon, wrapping/packaging paper, plasterboard, box board, corrugated board, towelling and tissue paper. Other additives usually used in the manufacture of paper or paperboard are compatible with the present invention. Among such additive are fillers, clays (non-swelling), pigments such as titanium dioxide, precipitated/ground calcite, gypsum, sizes such as rosin/alum or synthetic sizes such as the alkylketene dimers or alkyl succinic anhydrides, wet or dry strength resins, dyes, optical brighteners and slimicides. The present invention will now be illustrated with reference to the following tests in which the performance of the present invention was compared with the conventional use of polymeric flocculants. A standard volume of a fine paper stock was introduced into a standard Britt Jar apparatus (for measuring fine retention--TAPPI Method T261, 1980) and an anionic flocculant introduced in a given quantity followed by mixing under high shear conditions (1500 rpm) for 30 seconds. After this mixing stage in some tests a given quantity of a commercial swelling clay was added in the form of an aqueous suspension comprising 10 g/l clay. The clay was mixed in by low shear for 15 seconds and the retention tests performed to give results expressed as % fines retained by weight of originally present fines. The results on two different batches of fine paper stock, having a pH of 7.2 and an anionic demand, are given below: ______________________________________Retention study results:Headbox consistency 0.74%Fines fraction 46%______________________________________ % Fines Retention Batch 1 Batch 2______________________________________Blank 76 51Percol.sup.1 110L @ 2 lb/ton 82 85Percol 110L @ 2 lb/ton plus 86 87Hydrocol O.sup.2 @ 4 lb/ton______________________________________ .sup.1 Percol 110L is a high molecular weight anionic polymeric flocculan available from Allied Colloids. .sup.2 Hydrocol O is a bentonite clay available from Allied Colloids. The above results indicate a surprising improvement in retention properties of stocks treated in accordance with the present invention.
Paper or paperboard is made by forming an aqueous cellulosic suspension, passing the cellulosic suspension through one or more shear stages, draining the suspension to form a sheet and drying the sheet, wherein the cellulosic suspension that is drained includes organic polymeric material and inorganic material, wherein said organic polymeric material is a flocculant having a molecular weight above 500,000 and is added to the suspension before one of the said shear stages and wherein said inorganic material comprises bentonite which added to the suspension after that shear stage, characterised in that the organic polymeric material comprises an anionic or non-ionic polymer.
3
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a no-lube telescoping, or sliding, landing gear utilizing high strength synthetic, or natural fiber ribbons or strands as support for extending or lifting an apparatus. [0002] Landing gears are generally designed to have a gear system that motivates a landing portion to the ground thereby supporting an apparatus such as a trailer. Oftentimes these landing systems require frequent maintenance, including the addition of lubricants, to function properly. Additionally, to support high-weight loads, strong, heavy gearing mechanisms are required. [0003] Thus, a landing gear that is lighter and stronger and functions properly without a lubricant is desired. [0004] These and other features, advantages and objects of the present invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, and appended drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0005] One aspect of the present invention relates to a landing gear assembly that comprises a first leg member adapted to couple to a vehicle frame member, and a second leg member operably coupled to the first leg member and moveable between a raised storage position and a lowered-in use position. The landing gear assembly further comprises a flexible member operably coupled with the drive mechanism and the second leg, such that the drive mechanism extends the flexible member and moves the second leg from the storage position to the in-use position, and wherein the flexible member is adapted to support a weight exerted on the first and second leg members. [0006] Another aspect of the present invention is a vehicle frame assembly that comprises a vehicle frame, and a landing gear assembly. The landing gear assembly comprises a first leg member adapted to couple to a vehicle frame member, and a second leg member telescopingly coupled to the first leg member and moveable between a raised storage position and a lowered in-use position. The landing gear assembly also comprises a winch assembly including a first pulley, and a transit pulley operably coupled to the first leg member. The landing gear assembly further comprises a flexible member operably coupled with the drive mechanism and the second leg, wherein the flexible member extends from the first pulley, about the transit pulley, and is fixedly coupled to the second leg member, the drive mechanism extending the flexible member and moving the second leg member from the storage position to the in-use position, and wherein the flexible member is adapted to support a weight exerted on the first and second legs. [0007] Due to the heavy weight and cumbersome nature of standard landing gears, a significant weight advantage is achieved by replacing traditional threaded rod and gear mechanisms with pulleys/rollers and fibers. The present invention provides a landing gear having fibers that are of high tensile strength and withstand fatigue and elongation. Furthermore, the fibers are resistant to heat, chemicals, and degradation without compromising excellent flexibility that is better than steel cable. Moreover, the present inventive landing gear includes an uncomplicated design, can be operated by even unskilled workers, is efficient in use, capable of a long operating life, and is particularly well adapted for the proposed use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0008] FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a semi-trailer unhitched from an associated truck tractor, and having a landing gear thereon supporting a front end of the semi-trailer; [0009] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional front side elevation view of the landing gear taken along the line II-II, FIG. 1 ; [0010] FIG. 3 is a top cross-sectional view of the landing gear taken along the line III-III, FIG. 2 ; [0011] FIG. 4 is a front cross-sectional view of the landing gear taken along the IV-IV, FIG. 3 ; and [0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative landing gear assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0013] For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. [0014] The reference numeral 10 ( FIG. 1 ) generally designates a landing gear assembly embodying the present invention. In the illustrated example, the landing gear assembly 10 supports a forward end of a semi-trailer 12 . The landing gear 10 typically includes a pair of leg assemblies spaced across a width of the trailer 12 and located near respective front corners of the trailer 12 . The landing gear assembly 10 is capable of extending to engage a ground surface 14 or other supporting surface to hold up the front end of the semi-trailer 12 as is well understood in the art. A shoe 16 of the landing gear assembly 10 is pivotally mounted on a lower portion thereof for engaging the ground surface 14 . The landing gear assembly 10 is also capable of retracting to an up and out of the way position or a storage position when the semi-trailer 12 is being pulled over the road by a tractor (not shown). A crank handle 18 is used to adjust the landing gear assembly 10 between the raised storage position and the lowered in-use position, as described below. The following description is confined to the landing gear assembly 10 as illustrated in FIG. 1 , however, it is noted that the landing gear assembly (not shown) associated and supporting an opposite side of the semi-trailer 12 is constructed and coupled to the trailer 12 in a similar manner. Such constructions are well understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and will not be further described herein. [0015] The landing gear assembly 10 comprises a first leg member 20 fixedly coupled at a first end 22 to a vehicle frame member 24 , and a second leg member 26 having an interior space 28 telescopingly receiving the first leg member 20 therein. A winch assembly 30 is connected to the first end 22 of the first leg member 20 and is operably coupled to the second leg member 26 by a flexible ribbon 32 , as is described below. The winch assembly 30 is driven by a drive mechanism 34 that includes the crank handle 18 . [0016] The first leg member 20 ( FIG. 3 ) includes a mounting plate portion 36 including a plurality of mounting apertures 38 that receive bolts 40 therein mounting the first leg member 28 to the vehicle frame member 24 . The first leg member 20 also includes a T-shaped slide portion 42 that telescopingly engages the second leg member 26 , as described below. The first leg member 20 further includes a pair of guide portions 44 spaced outside the slide portion 42 that guide the second leg member 26 when telescoping between the raised and lowered positions, as described below. [0017] The second leg member 26 comprises a C-shaped, cross-sectional configuration including tab portions 46 that engage with the T-shaped slide portion 42 of the first leg member 20 , thereby telescopingly coupling the first leg member 20 and the second leg member 26 . The first leg member 20 and the second leg member 26 cooperate to form an interior space 48 within which the winch assembly 30 is located. The second leg member 26 further includes a longitudinally-extending pocket 50 that serves to reduce the overall weight of the landing gear assembly 10 . [0018] The winch assembly 30 ( FIG. 4 ) includes a first pulley 52 operably connected to the second leg member 26 by the flexible ribbon 32 , and to the drive mechanism 34 by a gear train 54 . The drive mechanism 34 includes the manual crank handle 18 fixedly connected to an input or drive shaft 56 that is shiftable between a first position providing a first drive speed, and a second position providing a second drive speed, as described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/412,688, filed on Apr. 27, 2006, entitled L ANDING G EAR AND M ETHOD OF A SSEMBLY, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/405,079, filed on Apr. 1, 2003, entitled L ANDING G EAR AND M ETHOD OF A SSEMBLY, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in the entirety. A first input gear 58 and a second input gear 60 are fixed about the drive shaft 56 . A first output gear 62 and a second output gear 64 are fixedly coupled to an output shaft 66 , and are engagable with the first input gear 58 and the second input gear 60 when the drive shaft 56 is located in position A and position B, respectively. It is noted that the gearing ratios as provided between the input gears 58 , 60 and the output gears 62 , 64 drive the first pulley 52 at a relatively slower and faster speed when the drive shaft 56 is located in positions A and B, respectively. [0019] As best illustrated in FIG. 2 , the flexible ribbon 32 extends from the first pulley 52 downwardly about a transit pulley 68 that is rotationally coupled to a second end 70 of the first leg member 20 , and upwardly to an end 72 that is fixedly connected to an upper end 74 of the second leg member 26 . In operation, rotating the crank handle 18 in a first direction as represented by reference numeral 76 retracts or wraps the flexible ribbon 32 about the first pulley 52 , thereby shortening the overall effective length of the flexible ribbon 32 and forcing the second leg member 26 downwardly with respect to the first leg member 20 in a direction as represented by directional arrow 78 . A second pulley 80 ( FIG. 4 ) is fixed for rotation with the drive shaft 56 and is coupled to the second leg member 26 by a second flexible ribbon 82 , wherein an end of the second flexible ribbon 82 is fixedly connected to the second leg member 26 . In operation, the second leg member 26 is retracted or moved from the lowered in-use position to the raised storage position by moving the handle 18 in a direction 84 which retracts or wraps the second flexible ribbon 82 about the second pulley 80 , thereby moving the second leg member 26 upwardly in a direction 86 with respect to the first leg member 20 . [0020] The reference numeral 10 a ( FIG. 5 ) generally designates another embodiment of the present invention, utilizing additional pulleys therein to multiply the mechanical force generated. Since the landing gear assembly 10 a is similar to the previously-described landing gear assembly 10 , similar parts appearing in FIGS. 2-4 and FIG. 5 , respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “a” in the numerals of the latter. In the illustrated example, the second leg member 26 a is telescopingly received within the first leg member 20 a. The flexible ribbon 32 a extends downwardly from the first pulley 52 a of the winch assembly 30 a, about a first transit pulley 68 a pivotally coupled to a distal end 88 of the first leg member 20 a, about a second transit pulley 92 that is pivotally connected to the upper end 74 a of the second leg member 26 a, and is fixedly connected at an end 94 to the distal end 88 of the first leg member 20 . The landing gear assembly 10 a further includes return mechanisms similar to that previously described with respect to the landing gear assembly 10 . In operation, the landing gear assembly 10 operates in a similar manner to that of the landing gear assembly 10 as previously described. [0021] Due to the heavy weight and cumbersome nature of standard landing gears, a significant weight advantage is achieved by replacing traditional threaded rod and gear mechanisms with pulleys/rollers and fibers. The present invention provides a landing gear having fibers that are of high tensile strength and withstand fatigue and elongation. Furthermore, the fibers are resistant to heat, chemicals, and degradation without compromising excellent flexibility that is better than steel cable. Moreover, the present inventive landing gear includes an uncomplicated design, can be operated by even unskilled workers, is efficient in use, capable of a long operating life, and is particularly well adapted for the proposed use. [0022] In the foregoing description, it will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the concepts disclosed herein.
A landing gear assembly comprises a first leg member adapted to couple to a vehicle frame member, and a second member operably coupled to the first leg member and moveable between a raised storage position and a lowered in-use position. The landing gear assembly further comprises a flexible member operably coupled with the drive mechanism and the second leg, such that the drive mechanism extends the flexible member and moves the second leg from the storage position to the in-use position, and wherein the flexible member is adapted to support a weight exerted on the first and second legs. In certain embodiments disclosed herein, the flexible member comprises a ribbon constructed of natural fibers. Other embodiments comprise additional pulleys and flexible members adapted to raise the second leg member from the in-use position to the raised storage position.
1
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/018,372 entitled “CONTROLLER FOR MEDICAL WARMING CABINETS” filed on Dec. 31, 2007. The content of that application is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein. STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH [0002] Not applicable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] This invention is directed at medical warming cabinets. In particular, this invention is directed at a data logging module for a medical warming cabinet and a method of monitoring a medical warming cabinet. [0004] Medical warming cabinets may be used to warm blankets, fluids, and the like. Commonly, medical warming cabinets include one or more compartments that are accessible through a door. Each compartment is heated by at least one heating element that is operated by a controller. In typical operation, the door is open, the items to be heated are placed on structures inside the compartment, the door is closed, and the items are retained in the compartment for a period of time while they are heated. [0005] Medical warming cabinets must operate under the proper temperatures and parameters to avoid overheating and/or spoilage of the items being heated. To this end, the controllers are often programmed to keep each of the compartments within a particular temperature range and alert the user if there has been non-compliance with the desired heating treatment. The user can control the temperature and/or thermal treatment parameters in the cabinet via a user interface such as a control panel. [0006] However, there may be temporary disruptions in temperature that do not significantly impact the thermal treatment of the items. For example, the door to the chamber could be opened, causing a temporary outflux of heated air that causes the temperature in the compartment to quickly drop. Yet, the items being heated may substantially retain their temperature and stay within a usable range. [0007] Further, medical warming cabinets are not well adapted to provide thermal treatment information back to the user. Due to cost limitations and the desire to keep the user interface as simple as possible, the control panel for most medical warming cabinets is small and limited in function. Most medical warming cabinets are limited to providing current temperature, set point information, and the minimum and maximum temperature range information. Even then, in most cabinets, a single display screen must be used to toggle between each of these values. [0008] Hence, there is a need for improved monitoring, recordation, and analysis of thermal treatment information for medical warming cabinets. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] A method of monitoring a medical warming cabinet is disclosed. The medical warming cabinet includes a heating chamber heated by a heating apparatus. Access to the heating chamber is provided through a door into the heating chamber. The method includes sampling a temperature of the heating chamber at predetermined intervals and a state of the door. The temperature, the state of the door, and a time of the sampling is recorded in a data packet on a memory device. A message is provided indicating when the memory device is reaching capacity prior to the memory device reaching capacity. [0010] In another form, the disclosed method also includes the steps of sampling a temperature of the heating chamber at predetermined intervals and a state of the door and recording the temperature, the state of the door, and a time of the sampling in a data packet on a memory device. A selected plurality of the data packets excluding data packets within a predetermined time after the door indicates the door is open are analyzed. A report is generated summarizing the analysis of the selected plurality of the data packets. [0011] A data logging module for a controller in a medical warming cabinet is also disclosed. The medical warming cabinet includes a heating chamber heated by a heating apparatus. Access to the heating chamber is provided through a door into the heating chamber. The data logging module includes a temperature sensor sampling a temperature in the heating chamber; a door sensor sampling a state of the door; a memory device recording the temperature, the state of the door, and a time of the sampling in a data packet at a predetermined interval; and a display that displays a message indicating that the memory device is reaching capacity prior to the memory device reaching capacity. [0012] The data obtained may be transferred to an external memory device. This may be performed, for example, using a bus port, such as a USB port to transfer data from the memory device to a removable external memory device such as a USB flash memory drive. In this way, as the memory device in the medical warming cabinet approaches capacity, the data packets can be transferred and stored in a separate system, such as, for example, a personal computer. Moreover, the data can be analyzed to provide reports including the most relevant data. [0013] Additionally, this added functionality can be made with only minor additions to the control panel. Thus, the control panel can remain simple to use and inexpensive to produce, while the medical warming cabinet offers advanced features related to monitoring, recording, and analyzing the thermal treatment of the items contained therein. [0014] These and still other advantages of the invention will be apparent from the detailed description and drawings. What follows is merely a description of some preferred embodiments of the present invention. To assess the full scope of the invention the claims should be looked to as these preferred embodiments are not intended to be the only embodiments within the scope of the claims. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medical warming device with a controller including a removable memory module; [0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a medical warming device controller with a removable memory device that has been removed; [0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a medical warming device controller with a removable memory device that has been installed; and [0018] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a medical warming device controller with a removable memory device that has been installed and a bus port. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0019] Referring now to FIG. 1 , a medical warming cabinet 10 includes a door 11 and walls 12 that define a compartment or heating chamber 13 . The heating chamber 13 receives and warms medical items, such as blankets, fluids, and the like. [0020] The door 11 provides access to the heating chamber 13 . As shown, the door 11 is hinged to the walls 12 by hinges 17 . A door sensor 19 is present that detects whether the door 11 is open or shut. The door sensor 19 may be any kind of sensor including, but not limited to, a mechanical button, switch, or lever that is depressed when the door 11 is closed, an optical sensor, an electrical sensor, a magnetic sensor, and the like. [0021] A heating apparatus 15 heats the heating chamber 13 and is controlled by a controller 14 . The heating apparatus 15 can be a heating element, with or without a heat circulating fan, or a low-heat-density electrothermal cable or pad array that is mounted against the inside or outside of the walls 12 define the chamber 13 . [0022] The controller 14 is configured to operate the heating apparatus 15 at a particular temperature that is selected by a user. The controller 14 is connected to the door sensor 19 and a temperature sensor 21 for measuring the temperature of the heating chamber 13 . Although the temperature sensor 21 is shown as being placed on a side wall of the heating chamber 13 , it may be placed in any one of a number of positions within the heating chamber 13 . [0023] The controller 14 is connected to the removable storage device 16 . Preferably, the removable storage device 16 is not accessible external to the exterior 12 without disassembling the cabinet 10 . The controller 14 includes a plurality of operator inputs 18 and a display 20 . The controller 14 can be configured differently depending on the information stored on removable storage device 16 . [0024] The removable storage device 16 includes information for the operation of the cabinet 10 . The information can be stored in a configuration file format. The information can include model, serial, and software version information. The information can include software versions and heating control algorithm information such as allowable temperature ranges and proportional-integral-derivative controller (PID controller) parameters. [0025] For fluid warming cabinets, the controller can be configured to allow for individual temperature controls for irrigation fluids (IRR) and injection fluids (INJ). For example, the IRR temperature can be adjusted within a first range and the INJ temperature can be set within a second range, which is typically lower than the IRR range. The appropriate range of temperatures is available automatically once a user selects the type of fluids to be warmed. The user can then input a setpoint within the range of temperatures. Furthermore, fluid warming cabinets can include an alarm that indicates when a temperature exceeds a temperature that is a certain amount higher than the set temperature. Fluid warming cabinets may include a fan for air-mixing to enhance temperature accuracy. [0026] The information in the configuration file stored on the removable storage device 16 can include the type of warmer, the model number, the serial number, the year of manufacturing, the month of manufacturing, the date of manufacturing, the type of warmer (i.e., blanket or fluid), the injection fluids warming minimum temperature, the injection fluids maximum temperature, the irrigation fluids minimum temperature, the irrigation fluids maximum temperature, the blanket minimum temperature, the blanket maximum temperature, PID integration compensation term normalized to 150 degrees F., PID “D” term normalized to 150 degrees F., PID “I” term normalized to 150 degrees F., PID “P” term normalized to 150 degrees F.; PID “D” sampling period in half seconds, check door sensor enable; the frequency of any data collection module, the number of temperature sensors, the output type (e.g., solid state relay or mechanical relay), and control limits for the relay on each side of the setpoint. The temperature parameters can be in Fahrenheit or Celsius. [0027] The controller 14 is further configured to be replaceable, so that if the controller 14 fails, the controller 14 can be removed from the warming cabinet 10 and replaced with a new controller. The controller 14 can be configured to be replaceable through the use of removable connectors and lines that connect the controller 14 to the other components of the cabinet 10 , such as a power supply, relays, the heating apparatus, and sensors. Because the removable memory device 16 can be removed from the controller 14 that is being replaced, the removable memory device 16 can be easily inserted into the new controller. Accordingly, the new controller is configured to operate exactly like the failed controller without having to tediously input the control parameters by using the user inputs and without requiring a specialized programming device. Furthermore, the controller 14 can be updated simply by removing an old removable storage device and either updating the old device or inserting a new removable storage device 16 including the updated information. Once the new removable memory device is installed in the controller, the controller 14 loads the information, such as by loading a configuration file, from the removable memory device 16 . In this way, the controller 14 can be also be easily updated. [0028] For clarity, the removable storage device 16 is not the same as the external memory device that will be described later with respect to the data logging module. The removable storage device 16 is designed to be permanently retained in the controller 14 , except when, for example, replacing a faulty controller or upgrading the information for operation of the cabinet 10 . As described above, this typically involves disassembly of the cabinet 10 . In contrast, the external memory device is for offloading data from the cabinet 10 , such as information that has been recorded pertaining to the operation of the cabinet 10 . As will be described below, this periodic transferring of data is intended to be easy accessible by the user. [0029] FIGS. 2 and 3 show a controller 30 for use with a medical warming cabinet. The controller 30 includes a removable memory socket 32 , user display 34 , user inputs 36 , LEDs 38 , and a plurality of connectors 40 for connection to other components of a warming cabinet. In FIG. 2 , a removable memory device 42 is shown removed from the removable memory socket 32 . In FIG. 3 , the removable memory device 42 is shown inserted into the removable memory socket 32 , which can be a bus port. The removable memory device 42 can be a memory chip, memory stick, memory card, and the like. The removable memory socket 32 is configured to allow for the information stored on the removable memory device 42 to be loaded by controller 30 . The controller 30 can comprise a plurality of printed circuit boards including a processor, memory, buses, communication lines, and other electrical components as is well understood in the art. [0030] FIG. 4 shows a controller 50 for use with a medical warming cabinet. As discussed in more detail below, the controller 50 includes a processor and memory device configured to operate as a data logging module. The memory device may be a portion of the removable storage device 16 , memory onboard the controller, or any other type of memory storage. Controller 50 includes a display 52 , user inputs 54 , LEDs 56 , and a plurality of connectors 58 for connection to other components of a warming cabinet. The controller 50 can comprise a plurality of printed circuit boards including a processor, memory, buses, communication lines, and other electrical components as is well understood in the art. Controller 50 is connected by bus lines 60 to a bus port 62 , which is configured to receive a data logging memory device (not shown) that can be read/written by the controller 30 . In one embodiment, bus port 62 is a universal serial bus (USB) port and memory device is a USB flash drive. Bus port 62 is disposed on the warmer to be conveniently accessible without disassembling the warmer in which it is installed. Controller 50 can also include a removable control memory socket/port (not shown) configured to accept a removable control memory device 64 , which in FIG. 4 is shown inserted into the removable memory socket. [0031] The data logging module of the controller 50 is configured to log (i.e., sample and record) operational data by sampling data at a predetermined sample rate and storing data packets for each sample. The data packets can include a time/date stamp, the current set point for the warmer compartment, a first measured temperature of the compartment provided by a first temperature sensor (such as temperature sensor 21 ), a second measured temperature of the compartment provided by a second temperature sensor, a state of a door sensor 19 on the warmer, the warmer type, and error logging. All data sampling packets for temperature can be taken from the first sensor 21 , but a preferred method is to have an additional sensor and circuitry for independent reporting of the warmer function. In an embodiment, the data packets are sampled at a rate of one per hour and are stored in a memory sized to store six months of data. [0032] In one embodiment, the memory device is a circular memory buffer. As the operational information is sampled and recorded, the data packets are stored in the circular memory buffer and, when the memory is full, the oldest of the data packets are overwritten during the step of recording. [0033] The controller 50 can be configured to use the display 52 to indicate that the data logging memory is full and a download is required or as the memory device is reaching capacity. In one embodiment, a message, such as the word “full”, can flash alternately with a displayed temperature of the compartment. When a data logging memory device or external memory device is inserted into the bus port 62 , the controller 50 automatically transfers the logged data to the data logging memory device. The controller 50 indicates on display 52 that the data is being downloaded to the data logging memory device and also indicates when the download has completed. In an embodiment, the display 52 shows “USB DMP”during the download and “USB DONE” once the download has completed and until the data logging memory device has been removed. Once the data logging memory device has been removed, the display function is returned to normal operation. The data can be written to the data logging memory device in a comma delimited format or summarized in a report having. In one embodiment, the user inputs 54 are not locked out when the data is being downloaded. [0034] The controller 50 can be configured to summarize the logged data in a report format. The report format can be configured to exclude samples that were taken, for example, within two hours of when the door was open or, according to another example, within two hours of when the warmer was turned on. Of course, two hours is only one example and other lengths of time could be selected when determining which samples to exclude from the report. The report can be a text file including the following information: model number, serial number, date of manufacture of unit, date of report/download, software version, frequency a reading was taken, separate report sections for each set point, units, warmer mode, or month change of greater than eight valid readings, and an overall statement summarizing the accuracy of the data and indicating how the data was collected. The separate report section for each set point, units, warmer mode, or month change of greater than eight valid readings including the following information: period of accuracy the section covers, number of days the section covers, number of readings evaluated for the accuracy calculation, number of readings excluded from the accuracy calculation due to the door being opened within a specified time of a reading, mode of warming, warmer accuracy specification, warmer setpoint temperature, average temperature, temperature range, and accuracy evaluation statement indicating if the unit passed or failed to meet the specified accuracy at the selected set point. [0035] The controllers of the present invention can be set by a user to operate in Fahrenheit and Celsius and allows a user to input a temperature within a range of temperatures. The controllers can include a timer that allows a user to control when the cabinet turns on and off. The controllers can also have a lock-out feature and a series of prompt sequence indicators. The controllers can also control interior lighting. The cabinet can include a warming shut-off system that is separate from controller and is configured to prevent overheating. [0036] A warmer can include two compartments that are warmed separately, which allows for flexibility in choosing particular temperatures for warmed blankets or warmed fluids. Combination cabinets can include a blanket warming compartment and a fluid warming compartment. The compartments can be controlled by separate controllers. Alternatively, a single controller can be configured to control more than one compartment. [0037] While there have been shown and described what is at present considered the preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims.
A data logging module and a method of monitoring a medical warming cabinet is disclosed. A temperature of the heating chamber and a state of a door of the heating chamber are sampled at predetermined intervals and recorded as data packets on a memory device. A display may provide a message when the memory device is reaching capacity. Moreover, a selected of the data packets may be analyzed (such as the data packets excluding the data packets when the door is open) for the generation of a report. The data packets from the memory device may be transferred from the memory device to an external memory device as necessary.
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TECHNICAL FIELD Embodiments of the invention are directed, in general, to identifying the individual responses of cascaded components given an overall channel response and, more specifically, to identifying and eliminating a feedback channel response from an overall system response by introducing a frequency shift to a feedback channel or to a transmission channel or to both channels. BACKGROUND Pre-distortion is used in transmission systems to compensate for the linear and nonlinear effects of the transmission channel upon the signals to be transmitted. An adaptation engine may generate an error correction signal for a pre-distortion circuit. The error correction signal causes the pre-distortion circuit to modify the input signal in a way that counteracts the transmission channel response. As a result, the system output signal should be equivalent to the input signal with some gain value applied without other modification. The adaptation engine must know the transmission channel response in order to generate the correct error correction signal. The transmission channel response can be measured using external monitoring equipment that inputs a known signal and analyzes the output after passing through the transmission channel. The use of such external measuring equipment is not practical when the system is in use outside a production or test environment. An adaptation engine internal to the system can also be used to measure a transmission channel response. The adaptation engine receives both the system input signal and the system output signal and then compares the input and output signals to determine the transmission channel response. As a result, the adaptation engine can determine the transmission channel response for current operating conditions. However, in such systems, the system output signal is provided to the adaptation engine via a feedback channel. Because the output signal must be down-converted, mixed, filtered or otherwise modified in the feedback channel before being applied to the adaptation engine, the feedback channel introduces its own response to the output signal in addition to the transmission channel response. Accordingly, the adaptation engine generates an error correction signal designed to counteract both the transmission channel response and a feedback channel response. Only the transmission channel portion of the pre-distortion will have been neutralized when the signal reaches the system output. As a result, the output signal will still include the inverse of the feedback channel, which was unintentionally included in the error correction signal from the adaptation engine. The feedback channel response must be identified by the system and eliminated from the pre-distortion correction. SUMMARY Embodiments of the invention provide a system and method for removing feedback channel response from a pre-distortion circuit in real-time. The system learns the feedback channel response and transmit channel response on its own without requiring factory calibration. The feedback channel response is identified in one embodiment by shifting the frequency of a feedback signal, which allows it to be identified within the combined system response. Alternatively, the frequency of the transmit channel may be shifted so that the transmit channel response can be identified within the combined system response. In a further alternative, both the transmit and feedback channel frequencies are shifted by different amounts to calculate the transmit and feedback channel responses. The transmit and feedback responses are calculated at the same time using singular value decomposition (SVD). In one embodiment, a plurality of shifted feedback signals are created by shifting a feedback signal frequency by a plurality of offset values. The feedback signals are modified by a transmission channel response and a feedback channel response. The plurality of shifted feedback signals are compared to an input signal to identify the transmission channel response and/or a feedback channel response. A control signal is generated for a pre-distortion circuit. The control signal causes the pre-distortion circuit to modify the input signal by an inverse of the transmission channel response. The plurality of offset values may be selected from integer multiples of 2π/N, where N is a selected number of measurement points between π and −π. The value of N may also correspond to a length of a Discrete Fourier Transform used to convert feedback signal measurements to the frequency domain. The shifted feedback signals are divided by the input signal to calculate a plurality of composite system responses, each of the composite system responses comprising the transmission channel response and the feedback channel response. The composite system response is measured at a plurality of operating frequencies and at the plurality of offset values. The measurements are stored in a matrix and singular value decomposition is applied to the matrix of measurements to calculate the transmission channel response and the feedback channel response. A primary coordinate of the matrix may correspond to the transmission channel response, and a secondary coordinate of the matrix may correspond to the feedback channel response. The measurements may be taken using a plurality of offset values that are not evenly spaced. In another embodiment, a system comprises a pre-distortion circuit coupled between a system input and a transmission channel output. A mixer is coupled between the transmission channel output and an adaptation circuit in a feedback channel. The mixer offsets a frequency of a feedback signal away from a frequency of an output signal. The adaptation circuit is coupled to the pre-distortion engine and receives an input signal from the system input and the feedback signal. The adaptation circuit compares the input signal to the feedback signal at a plurality of feedback signal frequency offsets to generate a plurality of composite responses for the system. The adaptation circuit compares measurements of the plurality of composite responses to identify a transmit channel response and/or a feedback channel response. The adaptation circuit generates an error correction signal for the pre-distortion circuit based upon the transmit channel response and/or a feedback channel response. The error correction signal causes the pre-distortion circuit to modify the input signal by an inverse of the transmit channel response. The plurality of feedback signal frequency offsets may be selected from integer multiples of 2π/N, where N is a selected number of measurement points between π and −π. The value of N may correspond to a length of a Discrete Fourier Transform used to convert feedback signal measurements to the frequency domain. In a further embodiment, a plurality of shifted signals are created by shifting a digital input signal by a plurality of offset values. The shifted signals are up-converted to create a plurality of transmission signals centered at a selected output frequency. The transmission signals are down-converted in a feedback circuit to create feedback signals. The feedback signals are modified by transmission channel responses at the plurality of offset values and a feedback channel response. The plurality of feedback signals are compared to an input signal to identify a transmission channel response and/or a feedback channel response. A control signal is generated for a pre-distortion circuit. The control signal causes the pre-distortion circuit to modify the input signal by an inverse of the transmission channel response and/or a feedback channel response. The shifted feedback signals are divided by the input signal to calculate a plurality of composite system responses. Each of the composite system responses comprises the transmission channel response and the feedback channel response. The composite system response is measured at a plurality of operating frequencies and at the plurality of offset values. The measurements are stored in a matrix, and a singular value decomposition is applied to the matrix of measurements to calculate the transmission channel response and the feedback channel response. A primary coordinate of the matrix corresponds to the transmission channel response, and a secondary coordinate of the matrix corresponds to the feedback channel response. The measurements may be taken using a plurality of offset values that are not evenly spaced. Another exemplary embodiment comprises system having a digital mixer coupled to a system input for receiving an input signal. The digital mixer creates a plurality of shifted input signals having an offset frequency. A local oscillator is coupled to a transmission channel mixer and to a feedback channel mixer. The local oscillator generates a local oscillator signal that is used in the transmission channel mixer to up-convert the plurality of shifted input signals to a plurality of output signals each at the same output frequency. The local oscillator signal is used in the feedback channel mixer to down-convert the plurality of output signals to feedback signals. An adaptation circuit receives the feedback signals and the input signal. The adaptation circuit compares the input signal to the feedback signals to generate a plurality of composite responses for the system, each of the composite responses corresponding to a different offset frequency. The adaptation circuit identifies a transmit channel response and/or a feedback channel response from the plurality of composite responses. A pre-distortion circuit is coupled between the system input and the digital mixer. The adaptation circuit generates an error correction signal for the pre-distortion circuit based upon the transmit channel response. The error correction signal causes the pre-distortion circuit to modify the input signal by an inverse of the transmit channel response. The frequency of the local oscillator signal is selected by subtracting the offset frequency from a desired output signal frequency. The adaptation circuit measures the composite system response at a plurality of operating frequencies and at the offset frequencies, stores the measurements in a matrix, and by applying a singular value decomposition to the matrix of measurements to calculate the transmission channel response and/or a feedback channel response. A primary coordinate of the matrix corresponds to the transmission channel response, and a secondary coordinate of the matrix corresponds to a feedback channel response. The measurements may be taken using a plurality of offset frequencies that are not evenly spaced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, wherein: FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a digital RF system including a transmission path and a feedback channel; FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a digital RF system that has been modified to remove feedback channel response (H FB ); FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a system adapted for transmit channel and/or feedback channel response separation and identification; FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a system adapted for identifying transmit and feedback channel responses using dual local oscillators; FIG. 5A is a block diagram of a system adapted for transmit channel and/or feedback channel response separation and identification using a single local oscillator system; FIG. 5B is a block diagram of a system adapted for transmit channel and/or feedback channel response separation and identification using a single local oscillator system; FIG. 6 illustrates an equivalent model of a digital RF system including a transmission path and a feedback channel; FIG. 7 illustrates a transmit channel transfer function H TX at operating frequency w and feedback channel transfer functions H FB at offset frequencies ω−Δω, ω+Δω, and ω+2Δω; FIG. 8A illustrates the location of uniformly spaced measurement data resulting from uniformly spaced offset values; and FIG. 8B illustrates the location of non-uniformly spaced measurement data resulting from non-uniformly spaced offset values. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. One skilled in the art may be able to use the various embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a digital RF system 100 including a transmission path 11 and a feedback channel 12 . Digital baseband signal (X), which is to be transmitted as an RF signal, is input to both digital pre-distortion (DPD) circuit 101 and DPD adaptation circuit (DPD Adapt) 102 . After passing through DPD circuit 101 , the digital baseband signal is then converted to an analog baseband signal in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 103 . The analog baseband signal is up-converted to the transmit frequency in TX RF circuit 104 and amplified in power amplifier (PA) 105 . The output signal (Y) at PA 105 is fed to an antenna or other interface or circuit (not shown) for transmission. The system output is also routed to a feedback loop 12 where it is down-converted to an analog baseband signal in FB RF circuit 106 . The analog baseband signal is then converted to digital baseband in analog-to-digital convertor (ADC) 107 . The digital baseband output (Z) of ADC 107 is input to DPD Adapt 102 , which compares the feedback signal Z to input signal X and generates error correction signal 108 for DPD 101 . The responses for TX RF circuit 104 , PA 105 , and FB RF circuit 106 are designated as H TX , H PA , and H FB , respectively. Initially the DPD is a simple pass through system, and the feedback signal is equal to the input signal modified by these responses—e.g., Z=H FB H PA H TX X. Because the feedback signal Z is actually used by DPD adaptation circuit 102 to generate an error correction signal, DPD 101 is adapting for all three responses—H TX , H PA and H FB . Accordingly, when signal Z is compared to input X in DPD Adapt 102 , error correction signal 108 drives DPD 101 to apply inverse response (H TX −1 H PA −1 H FB −1 ). This means that DPD 101 mistakenly incorporates the feedback channel response (H FB ) into the inverse model. As a result, the system not only corrects for the non-idealities of the transmit channel (i.e., H TX , H PA ), but also for non-idealities of the feedback channel (H FB ). When input signal X passes through the transmit channel, only responses H TX and H PA are canceled out of signal Y before it is transmitted. Accordingly, in system 100 , transmitted signal Y is the input signal X improperly modified by the feedback channel correction (H FB −1 ). This is troublesome because the desired transmit signal Y should be equal to the input signal X multiplied only by some linear gain and not further modified by some other response. It is important to note that system 100 appears to be working correctly from the viewpoint of DPD 101 because both inputs to DPD adaptation engine 102 are equal. This problem can be corrected by identifying the feedback channel response (H FB ) and then removing it from the feedback path before DPD adaptation engine 102 . FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a digital RF system 200 that has been modified to remove feedback channel response (H FB ). In system 200 , the feedback channel is inverted (H FB −1 ) in feedback correction block 201 prior to being fed into DPD adaption engine 102 . As a result, DPD 101 will only invert responses H TX and H PA . The same responses H TX , H PA , and H FB appear in the feedback signal Z in system 200 as system 100 —(i.e. Z=H FB H PA H TX X). When signal Z is passed through feedback correction block 201 , it is modified by the inverse of the feedback channel (H FB −1 ). As a result, the output of feedback correction block 201 is Z′=H FB −1 H FB H PA H TX X=H PA H TX X. This feedback signal Z′ is used by DPD adaptation in system 200 to generate error correction signal 202 . Therefore, DPD 101 adapts based on transmit channel responses H TX and H PA only. Output signal Y in system 200 is equal to input X because DPD 101 does not incorporate the feedback channel response (H FB ) into the inverse model. Accordingly, system 200 only corrects for the non-idealities of the transmit channel (i.e., H TX , H PA ). To achieve the advantages of system 200 , the feedback channel response (H FB ) must be accurately identified and separated from the overall composite response at the output of ADC 107 . FIG. 3 illustrates a system 300 for feedback channel separation and identification. A frequency offset is introduced between the transmit channel 31 and feedback channel 32 . Local oscillator (LO) 301 generates offset frequency Δω, which is combined with the feedback channel signal by mixer 302 . By taking multiple measurements, each with a different frequency offset, at DPD adaptation engine 102 , enough information can be obtained to accurately separate the feedback channel response from the overall composite response Z″. DPD adaptation engine 102 can then apply the inverse of the frequency channel response (H FB −1 ) prior to computing error correction signal 303 for DPD 101 . Assuming that ω is the frequency used for up-conversion in TX RF 104 and down-conversion in FB RF 106 , then the composite response of system 300 at DPD adaptation engine 102 can be represented as H(ω, Δω)=H TX (ω)·H PA (ω)·H FB (ω+Δω). A dual local oscillator system may be used to introduce the necessary frequency offset between the transmit and feedback channels. FIG. 4 is a schematic representation for a dual LO system 400 . The input digital signal is first processed by pre-distortion device 401 and then converted to analog in DAC 402 . The baseband analog signal is up-converted using LO TX from local oscillator 403 in mixer 404 . FIG. 4 has been simplified by combining the response for the entire transmission channel, including the transmit RF components and power amplifier, into the forward channel response H TX . The feedback signal is down-converted using LO FB from local oscillator 405 in mixer 406 and then digitized in ADC 407 . DPD adaptation engine 408 compares the input signal and feedback signal and then generates error correction signal 409 . In one embodiment of system 400 , transmit local oscillator LO TX is held constant while feedback local oscillator LO FB is varied. The difference between these two local oscillator frequencies is the Δω 301 shown in FIG. 3 (i.e. Δω=LO TX −LO FB ). In an alternative embodiment of system 400 , feedback local oscillator LO FB is held constant while transmit local oscillator LO TX is varied. In a more general system, either one or both LO TX and LO FB could be shifted separately or shifted at the same time by different amounts. As an example, in system 400 , multiple data points may be measured by keeping LO TX constant and varying LO FB . These measurements are used to calculate the transmission and feedback channel responses using, for example, the process described below. In another embodiment, multiple data points are measured by keeping LO FB constant and varying LO TX . These measurements are used to calculate the transmission and feedback channel responses. In another embodiment, multiple data points may be measured by varying both LO TX and LO FB by unequal amounts. These data points may be used to populate matrix C (Equation 6), which is then used to solve for the transmission and feedback channel responses. Similar techniques can also be applied to a single LO system as illustrated in FIG. 5A in which local oscillator 501 generates an LO frequency used for up-converting the transmitted signal in mixer 502 and down-converting the feedback signal in mixer 503 . The frequency offset Δω is added to the frequency (ω) of local oscillator 501 . As a result, the signal passing through the transmit channel is ω+Δω—i.e. the transmit signal varies. On the other hand, the feedback signal remains at the same frequency and is not affected by the frequency shift Δω after transmitted signal is down-converted in mixer 503 . Multiple measurements may be taken as Δω is varied and then used to solve for the transmit and feedback channel responses. FIG. 5B illustrates an alternative embodiment of a single LO system 550 in which local oscillator 551 generates an LO frequency used for up-converting the transmitted signal in mixer 552 and down-converting the feedback signal in mixer 553 . A frequency offset Δω 1 is added to the transmission channel at digital mixer 554 . To compensate for the Δω 1 frequency shift added by digital mixer 554 , the frequency generated at local oscillator 551 is set to (ω−Δω 2 ) so that the output of system 550 through H TX is centered at ω (assuming Δω 1 =Δω 2 ). While the transmit channel frequency remains constant, the frequency of the feedback channel changes with Δω 2 (i.e. Δω FB =Δω 2 ). This allows DPD adaptation engine 555 to measure the combined system response over multiple values of Δω 2 and to solve for the transmit and feedback channel responses using these measurements. In an alternative embodiment, rather than holding one of the channels at a constant frequency, the values of Δω 1 and Δω 2 may be varied independently (i.e. Δω 1 ≠Δω 2 ). This would allow both the transmit channel frequency and feedback channel frequencies to be varied at the same time. As a result, the frequency passing through H TX would be centered at ω and varied by the difference between Δω 1 and Δω 2 (i.e. ω+Δω 1 −Δω 2 ). On the other hand, the frequency shift passing through H FB (Δω FB ) after down-conversion in mixer 553 would be varied by Δω 1 . This is because the Δω 2 frequency shift added in mixer 552 is removed in mixer 553 before the feedback signal enters H FB . In the case where Δω 1 is set to 0 or is held constant (e.g. Δω 1 =0), but the value of Δω 2 is shifted, then system 550 of FIG. 5B would operate in a similar manner as system 500 of FIG. 5A with the exception that the frequency shift would be subtracted from frequency ω in system 550 and added to frequency ω in system 500 . FIG. 6 illustrates an equivalent model 600 of the feedback system simplified using a few further assumptions. To isolate the transmit-feedback system from the DPD, the signals used will be the input to the DAC and the output of the ADC. The effects of the DAC and PA can be merged into H TX 601 and the effects of the ADC merged into H FB 602 . In the simplified system of FIG. 6 , H TX 601 represents all the effects of the transmit channel, and H FB 602 represents all the effects of the feedback channel. In the dual-LO architecture, the transmit LO TX is held constant and changes in LO FB are represented by Δω 603 . The overall feedback response is identified by taking multiple measurements of the feedback signal using different frequency offsets (Δω) between the transmit and feedback LOs. By sending a signal through system 600 in FIG. 6 and observing the output, the overall system response for that specific frequency offset can be obtained. X(ω) and Z(ω) are the frequency-domain representations of the system input and feedback respectively, and H TX and H FB are the transmit and feedback channel responses of the system. By changing the feedback signal by frequency shift Δω, the following equation is obtained: Z (ω+Δω)= X (ω)· H TX (ω)· H FB (ω+Δω)  Eq. 1 By dividing the inputs signal out of Equation 1, the overall system response or composite transfer function H(ω,Δω) is defined as: Z (ω+Δω)/ X (ω)= H (ω,Δω))= H TX (ω)· H FB (ω+Δω)  Eq. 2 FIG. 7 illustrates the transmit channel transfer function H TX 701 at operating frequency ω and feedback channel transfer functions H FB 702 - 704 at offset various frequencies ω−Δω, ω+Δω, and ω+2Δω. Composite transfer function H(ω, Δω) as measured at the various offset frequencies will be H TX (ω) 701 multiplied by one of H FB (ω+Δω) 702 - 704 depending upon the offset frequency used. In embodiments of the invention, the frequency offset Δω is selected to correspond to discrete positions in the frequency domain. Acceptable Δω values correspond to the desired resolution of the channel estimates. Specifically, frequency shifts equal to integer multiples of 2π/N are desired, where N is the desired number of discrete frequency points between −π to π. Equivalently, N can be thought of as the length of the Discrete Fourier Transform used to initially convert the measurements to the frequency domain. By choosing from these values of Δω, the resulting frequency shifts are guaranteed to correspond to the desired discrete frequencies. Because the frequency shifts are chosen to map to discrete points in the frequency domain, the composite transfer function can be discretized as shown below in Equation 3, where Δn is the integer shift corresponding to Δω. When measurements are taken at multiple points in the frequency domain for the same Δω, the measurements will be of the form shown in Equation 4, where N is the measurement length. H ⁡ [ n , Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] = Y ⁡ [ n + Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] X ⁡ [ n ] = H TX ⁡ [ n ] · H FB ⁡ [ n + Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] Eq . ⁢ 3 [ H ⁡ [ 1 , Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] H ⁡ [ 2 , Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] ⋮ H ⁡ [ N , Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] ] = [ H TX ⁡ [ 1 ] · H FB ⁡ [ 1 + Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] H TX ⁡ [ 2 ] · H FB ⁡ [ 2 + Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] ⋮ H TX ⁡ [ N ] · H FB ⁡ [ N + Δ ⁢ ⁢ n ] ] Eq . ⁢ 4 The acquired data must be structured in a meaningful way in order to separate H FB and H TX from the composite response. This is accomplished by arranging the measurements into a matrix having a primary coordinate corresponding to the discrete frequency positions of H TX and a secondary coordinate corresponding to discrete frequency positions of H FB at the measurement data points. This equates to placing the measurements along the correct diagonal of the matrix. For simplicity, the matrix may be designated as C and H TX [n]=a n and H FB [n]=b n . Then, the mapping of H into C is shown in Equation 5 below. This rule is only applied when n+Δn is between 1 and N, thereby eliminating data that is corrupted by out-of-band information resulting from the frequency shifts. The structure of the complete C matrix is shown in Equation 6. H[n,Δn]=a n b n+Δn →C[n,n+Δn]   Eq. 5 C = [ c 1 , 1 c 1 , 2 ⋯ c 1 , N c 2 , 1 c 2 , 2 ⋮ ⋮ ⋱ c N - 1 , N c N , 1 ⋯ c N , N - 1 c N , N ] =   [ a 1 ⁢ b 1 a 1 ⁢ b 2 ⋯ a 1 ⁢ b N a 2 ⁢ b 1 a 2 ⁢ b 2 ⋮ ⋮ ⋱ a N - 1 ⁢ b N a N ⁢ b 1 ⋯ a N ⁢ b N - 1 a N ⁢ b N ] Eq . ⁢ 6 For a fixed offset frequency Δω in the feedback loop, as the input frequency ω is varied during measurements, the frequency of the feedback signal stays the same distance (Δω) away from the input signal frequency. As a result, for each integer shift Δn, matrix C is populated along diagonals c i,i±n corresponding to where the measurements have been taken. The other values of the C matrix will be null. The rationale for restructuring the data into matrix form is that if matrix C was fully populated, then it would be a Rank-1 matrix, as shown in Equation 7. Because of this, vectors a and b can be found from C using the well-known singular value decomposition (SVD), which provides for factorization of a rectangular matrix. C = [ a 1 a 2 ⋮ a N ] · [ b 1 ⁢ ⁢ b 2 ⁢ ⁢ ⋯ ⁢ ⁢ b N ] = a -> ⁢ b -> T Eq . ⁢ 7 A brief review of SVD is provided below. Given a matrix A, it can be decomposed as shown in Equation 8, where U and V are unitary matrices and S is a diagonal matrix of the singular values of A organized in descending order. V H is the conjugate transpose or Hermitian transpose of matrix V. A = USV H = [ u -> 1 ⁢ ⁢ u -> 2 ⁢ ⁢ ⋯ ⁢ ⁢ u -> N ] · [ σ 1 0 ⋯ 0 0 σ 2 ⋮ ⋮ ⋱ 0 0 ⋯ 0 σ N ] · [ v -> 1 H v -> 2 H ⋮ v -> N H ] Eq . ⁢ 8 Matrix A is assumed to be an N-by-N square, and u i and v i are the i th column of U and V respectively and σ i , is the i th largest singular value. Equation 8 can be simplified to Equation 9 shown below. A = ∑ i = 1 N ⁢ ⁢ σ i ⁢ u -> i ⁢ v -> i H Eq . ⁢ 9 Because matrix C is a Rank-1 matrix, its SVD will only have one non-zero singular value in matrix S of Equation 8. Therefore, matrix C can be represented by equation 10. C=σ i {right arrow over (u)} i {right arrow over (v)} i H   Eq. 10 As noted above, for each offset frequency Δω, the values in matrix C are filled along a diagonal. Unmeasured values are set to zero in matrix C. It is not desirable to take all 2N−1 measurements necessary to completely fill matrix C. Instead, embodiments of the invention solve for the full, optimal matrix C from a partially filled matrix C designated as matrix C E , where E is the location where measurement data exists. This algorithm is described below, where Ĉ is an approximation of C. T 1 (Ĉ) is the best Rank-1 approximation of Ĉ obtained using SVD. 1. Initialize Ĉ as T 1 (C E ) 2. Set values of Ĉ in E equal to those of C E in E 3. Set Ĉ equal to T 1 (Ĉ) 4. Return to step 2 and repeat until convergence This algorithm takes the largest singular σ value and the values of the related {right arrow over (u)} and {right arrow over (v)} parameters, which gives the closest approximation to the complete matrix C, and then refines the estimation by repeating. The algorithm continues until convergence, which may be defined, for example, by an error level determined between sequential estimates of the C matrix. The best Rank-r approximation from the SVD is defined in Equation 11. The Rank-1 approximation of Equation 11 is equivalent to Equation 10. T R ⁡ ( C ) - ∑ i = 1 R ⁢ ⁢ σ i ⁢ u -> i ⁢ v -> i H Eq . ⁢ 11 It should be noted that the method set forth above is just one way of identifying the transmit channel response and feedback channel response within the frequency-shifted composite responses. Embodiments of the invention minimize the cost function given in Equation 12. F ⁡ ( a , b ) ≡ ∑ i , j ∈ E ⁢  C i , j E - ( a -> · b -> T ) i , j  2 Eq . ⁢ 12 To prevent constructive interference in the noise space, embodiments of the invention use measurements that are not equally spaced. This is accomplished, for example, by perturbing the equally spaced locations based on a uniform, discrete random variable. This results in non-uniform frequency shifts between the points where measurements are taken. An example of uniformly spaced data is illustrated in FIG. 8A and non-uniformly spaced data in C E is illustrated in FIG. 8B , where the diagonal lines illustrate the location of measurement data for different values of Δω. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions, and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
Systems and methods for identifying a transmission channel response and a feedback channel response from a plurality of composite system responses are disclosed. A plurality of shifted feedback signals are created by shifting a feedback signal frequency by a plurality of first offset values and/or by shifting a transmission signal frequency by a plurality of second offset values. The feedback signals are compared to an input signal to identify the transmission channel response and/or a feedback channel response. A control signal is generated for a pre-distortion circuit to modify the input signal by an inverse of the transmission channel response. The composite system response is measured at a plurality of operating frequencies and at the plurality of offset values. The measurements are stored in a matrix and singular value decomposition is applied to the matrix of measurements to calculate the transmission channel response and feedback channel response.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to water saving plumbing fixtures. More particularly, it relates to improved means for using a pump to assist in the operation of plumbing fixtures such as toilets and urinals. DISCUSSION OF THE PRIOR ART Gravity feed toilets of the type having a reservoir at least partially above the level of a toilet bowl have in the past typically had a water capacity of 3 or more gallons for flushing the toilet. In recent years the efficiency of these toilets have been improved such that in many cases 1.6 gallons of water is sufficient to clean the bowl. However, where especially large amounts of feces are present double flushing may still be needed to completely clean the bowl. Moreover, it was hoped that additional water savings could be effected if these toilets could be made even more efficient during normal flushes and if less water could be employed to flush when only urine and toilet tissue are in the bowl. One known way to reduce the amount of water needed to effect flushing is to pressurize the flush water. See U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,979,731, 3,431,563 and 5,036,553. However, these prior systems were complex, costly and usually not suitable to completely fit in standard size toilets. They also suffered from other problems. Thus a need exists for an improved pump operated plumbing fixture which alters the amount of water used based on the type of material to be flushed, more efficiently sequences the flush water with respect to the rim portion and the bowl portion, permits water distribution to multiple fixtures from a single reservoir, permits alternative placement of the reservoir, permits an aesthetically pleasing compact design, resolves potential water overflow problems, meets safety standards relating to electrical shorting, and has good bowl cleaning and waste evacuation characteristics SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In one aspect, the invention provides a plumbing fixture for receiving flushable waste comprising at least one receptacle for receiving the waste, a reservoir tank for storing a volume of flush water, a pump motor and pump (both positioned in the reservoir tank), the inlet of the pump being in communication with the interior of the reservoir tank, a conduit connected between a pump outlet and the receptacle, and control means selectively and operatively connected to the motor to operate the pump for one period of time to deliver a quantity of flush water to the pump outlet. In another preferred form, the pump means is positioned either inside or outside the reservoir tank and the control means is selectively and operatively connected to the motor to the pump means to operate the pump for at least one other period of time to deliver at least one other quantity of flush water to the receptacle. In still another preferred form, there are at least two receptacles for receiving waste such as a toilet and an urinal. In still another aspect, a refill valve is operatively connected to an intake conduit, and a tube is connected between the refill valve and the rim of a toilet bowl. In still another preferred form, there are control means which include a time delay means to prevent activation of the pump and overflow of the toilet bowl. In another aspect, there is a fluid passage means disposed through the tank wall and positioned below the motor and electrical connection to the motor. In yet another aspect, there is a receptacle for storing a fluid such as a cleaning fluid and an additional pump means for pumping such a fluid into the toilet bowl to clean the toilet bowl. In yet another aspect, there are overflow prevention means for both the reservoir tank and the toilet bowl. Concerning the reservoir tank, an electrically operated fail-safe valve is connected to the supply conduit to shut off the water supply in the instance where there is a leaky supply valve. There is also an overflow sensor connected to a pump motor to pump excess water from the tank. Concerning the toilet bowl, there is a time delay feature to prevent excessive operation of the pump and flooding of the toilet bowl. In yet another preferred form, there are first and second conduits connected between the pump outlet and the basin and the rim. Control means connected to the motor and pump sequentially delivers a volume of flush water to the rim, a volume of flush water to the bowl either alternatively, or simultaneously, and in selective sequences. The objects of the invention therefore include: a. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein reduced quantities of water can be employed to remove flushable waste from a toilet bowl or a urinal. b. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein a pump and motor can be electrically controlled to deliver different quantities of water and in different timing sequences to a toilet bowl and rim. c. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein safeguards are provided to substantially reduce the possibility of overflow conditions. d. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein the pump can be easily connected or disconnected to a plumbing fixture. e. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein one pump can service a multiplicity of plumbing fixtures. f. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein a constant, predetermined volume and flow of water is delivered to the jet channel regardless of supply line pressure or flow characteristics. g. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein a cleaning fluid can be pumped from a separate tank to the toilet bowl for cleaning purposes. h. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind which can be fitted to standard water supply and waste lines. i. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein the pump and the reservoir are positioned remote from a toilet bowl or urinal. j. providing a plumbing fixture of the above kind wherein flush activation is effected by switches. These and still other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description which follows. In the detailed description below, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments do not represent the full scope of the invention. Rather the invention may be employed in other embodiments. Reference should therefore be made to the claims herein for interpreting the breadth of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a top plan, partially fragmentary view of a toilet (with tank lid removed) in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is mounted. FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view taken along line 2--2 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3--3 of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is partial sectional view taken along line 4--4 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view taken along line 5--5 of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 3. FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of the toilet shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a view in side elevation and partially in section illustrating an alternative embodiment. FIG. 9 is a rear elevational view in partial section of the toilet shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken on line 10--10 of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a view similar to FIG. 8 showing still another alternative embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view of yet another embodiment. FIG. 13 is a view in vertical section illustrating in more detail a pump and motor for use in the toilets described herein. FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic view of a control circuit for the motor and pump. FIGS. 15A-17C are flow charts showing a signal flow block diagram for the control circuit shown in FIG. 14. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is shown a toilet generally 10 having a basin or bowl portion 12 with a hollow rim 14. A "reservoir" 16 is in the form of tank 17. Positioned in the tank 17 is a pump 18 which is of the sump type. It is supported in the reservoir by vibration absorbing feet 19. Pump unit generally 43 includes a pump 18 driven by an electric motor 20 with electric power being supplied by electrical cord 21. The motor 20 drives the pump 18 by means of a sealed and enclosed magnetic drive which is explained below in more detail in conjunction with FIG. 13. It should be noted that one surprising aspect of the invention is positioning an electrical motor in the toilet water tank. Water enters the pump 18 at inlet 23 and exits the pump 18 by the outlet manifold 25. An outlet conduit 27 delivers water to the lower portion of bowl 12, such as through jet channel 28 (See FIG. 4) attached via connector 68. A smaller conduit 30 delivers water to the rim 14 through the channel 32. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, water enters the tank 17 by the inlet pipe 35 which is connected to a conventional water source. A float valve assembly 37 includes a float 39 which operates a valve (not shown) in pipe 40 by means of rod 42 and lever arm 44. Float 39 is guided by the guide member 45. Water that passes the inlet valve enters the reservoir through the inlet valve hush tube 47. There is also a bypass tube 50 connected to the float valve assembly to deliver a small amount of water to the rim 14 whenever the float valve is in an open condition. As best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, there is a return passage 33 between the upper bowl portion 12 and the reservoir 16. This allows for water to pass from the tank to the bowl in case there is an overflow condition in the tank. It also permits flow in the other direction if there is a stoppage in the bowl and a near over flow condition develops. There is also a dam member 69 which is positioned adjacent the return passage 33 and inside the tank 17. This serves to raise the water level in the tank 17 or the bowl portion 12 before overflowing into the other occurs. A rim vent hole 73 is also provided to facilitate water flow, as best shown in FIGS. 3 and 6. Referring now to FIG. 7, there are several openings 52 extending through the back wall 11 of the tank 17. The purpose of the openings 52 is that if return passage 33 is blocked to allow overflow water from tank 17 to spill out of the tank. The openings 52 provide a fluid spill passage and are positioned in the tank a distance above the bottom so that overflow water will escape prior to contact with the electrical connection from cord 21 with the motor 20 and are positioned below the point where water could enter the motor. The position of this connection is indicated in FIG. 2. The openings 52 also prevent contaminated water from rising high enough in the tank to contact intake water in pipe 40. FIGS. 8-11 represent alternative embodiments generally 10A. The same or similar components are designated with the same reference numerals as for the first embodiment except followed by the letter "A". One of the differences between the two embodiments is the placement of the reservoir 16A below the bowl portion 12A and accordingly the water level in the reservoir 16A below that of the bowl portion 12A. A support post 15A for the bowl portion 12A is provided as well as a surrounding housing 22A extending along the sides and back of the bowl portion 12A. In the FIG. 8 version, positioned on the reservoir 16A is a receptacle 24A which contains a cleaning fluid for cleansing the bowl portion 12A. The cleaning fluid is pumped from the receptacle 24A by means of the conduit 53A connected to the inlet side of the pump 54A driven by the motor 56A. A second conduit 57A extends from the outlet side of the pump 54A to the rim 14A of the bowl portion 12A where it is connected to inlet tube 55A. FIG. 11 shows an alternative placement of the receptacle 24A outside of the surrounding housing 22A. FIGS. 9 and 10 particularly illustrate the supply of water to the reservoir 16A, as well as to the rim 14A and bowl portion 12A. The pump 18A and motor 20A are located in the reservoir 16A. Water enters through the float valve assembly 37A and is delivered to the reservoir 16A by the outlet pipe 47A. However, in this instance, inlet water is supplied to the float valve assembly 37A by the supply line 59A. The inlet water is supplied through the back of housing 22A through line 59A and is controlled by a normally closed solenoid which opens, when electrically activated, the valve 60A. Pump 18A supplies water to the bowl portion 12A by means of the conduit 27A which is connected to conduits 27A' and 27A" as well as to manifold 25A. It also supplies water to the rim 14A by the conduit 30A connected to the manifold 25A. As best seen in FIG. 10, there is a solenoid diaphragm valve 62A connected to conduit 27A'. It is operated by a pilot 63A and is maintained in a closed position until activated to supply water to the bowl portion 12A. Referring specifically to FIG. 9, there is shown a water level sensor device generally 65A which includes a float 66A mounted on guide rod 64A having an electrical contact cap 67A on the end thereof. Contact by the float 66A with the cap 67A will send an electrical signal to motor 20A to operate pump 18A and thereby determine the maximum level of water 26A in reservoir 16A. Guide rod 64A is supported on bracket 61A which in turn is adjustably connected to support rod 51A. A trapway 49A communicating with the typical outlet drain 58A is also shown. FIG. 12 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment (generally 70B). The same or similar components are designated with the same reference numerals as for the first embodiment, except followed by the letter "B". In this embodiment 70B, the pump 18B and the motor 20B are located outside of a plumbing fixture such as a wall hung toilet 10B. In this instance, flush water would be contained in reservoir 16B and is pumped from the reservoir 16B by means of the intake conduit 71B and the output conduit 72B. Water is diverted to the toilet 10B and/or the urinal 74B through the diverter valve 75B. In a preferred manner, the volume of water pumped to the toilet 10B will be 1.6 gallons or less, whereas that normally delivered to the urinal 74B would be 1.0 gallon or less. The volume of water delivered to the toilet 10B and the urinal 74B can be controlled by a timing circuit as is explained later in conjunction with FIGS. 14 and 16A and B. FIG. 13 shows in more detail a pump 18 which is driven by the motor 20. Both the motor 20 and the pump 18 are enclosed in sealed housings 29 and 31. An electric motor 13 drives rotor 34 having magnets 36 which attract magnets 38 carried by the pump rotor 41. This effects a pumping action causing water to enter at entrance 23 and to exit from manifold 25 (See FIG. 2). It should be noted that placement of the magnets 36 and 38 in their respective plastic housings effects a seal between the rotors 34 and 41, thus reducing the chance of an electrical short into the reservoir water. Footmembers 46 provide for suitable spacing of entrance 23 from the bottom of reservoir 16 or 16A (See FIG. 2 or FIG. 3). A support member 48 positions the electric motor 13 at a predetermined distance above the floor of motor housing 29. FIGS. 14-17C illustrate electrical controls for the previously described embodiments. A microprocessor 80 is programmed to effect the desired and described functions which in the instance of embodiment 10A include a short flush function, a long flush function (which can be activated by the seat cover being closed), as well as a special bowl cleaner flush. These functions can be initiated by the respective switch buttons 81, 82 and 83 which preferably are of the touch type. A switch of this kind would be a membrane switch which would have a long flush and a short flush function in the same switch housing. In the instance of the seat cover closed function, it has in addition to activating switch 84, a monostable multivibrator 85 which is commonly known as a "one-shot". This particular seat cover closed function is described in more detail in commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/824,808 filed Jan. 22, 1992 which teachings are incorporated herein by reference. See also U.S. Pat. No. 3,590,397. Basically the idea is that the position of a magnet for the bowl lid is sensed by a sensor in the tank and the information leads to control of flushing (e.g. when the lid is first closed, a flush occurs). The level sensor 65A is also inputted to the microprocessor 80. The output side of the microprocessor 80 is connected to the main pump 18A, the pump 54A for the toilet bowl cleanser liquid, and the supply valve solenoid 62A by the lines 86, 87 and 88, respectively. As explained later, in conjunction with embodiment 70B, the short flush button 81 will represent the function of the urinal flush key being pressed as shown at 118 in FIG. 16B. Referring to FIGS. 15A and B, these represent the flow diagram for embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-7. The first step in the operation of the pump toilet 10 after the start 89 is the decision step 90 as to whether a switch has been activated such as by a key or push button. If a key is not activated, a background timer is updated at 91 and at 92. It is checked to see if it has a designated number of units. If it does, it is reset at 93 and a flush timer is looked at at 94 to determine if it equals 0 seconds. If it does not, it is decremented at 95. This background timer will operate in conjunction with the flush timer in a manner to be explained in conjunction with the actuation of the later described activation of the long and short keys at 97 and 105 and the timing of the main pump 18. At step 96, the flush timer is checked to see if it is at greater than 30 seconds. If it is not, this allows activation of either the long or short keys at 97 or 105. If it is the long flush key at 97, such as activated by switch 82,, then main pump 18 is turned on at step 99 after a valid input check at 98. This immediately delivers water to the rim portion 14 by way of conduit 30, as well as to the jet in the bowl portion 12 through conduit 25. After a delay of 3.17 seconds as indicated at step 100, the pump 18 is turned off at step 101. This will deliver 1.6 gallons of water and would normally be used to flush fecal matter. At step 102 there is added 60 seconds to the flush timer after which there is a determination made at 103 and 104 as to whether the long or short key has been pressed before another flush cycle is initiated. If instead of the long flush cycle, a shorter one is selected, the short flush key 105 is activated such as by switch 81. After an input check at 106, the pump 18 is activated at 107, and it is operated for 2.07 seconds as indicated at 108. It is turned off at 101 after delivering 1.0 gallon of water. This short flush would normally be used to flush urine and paper. Again 60 seconds would be added to the flush timer as indicated at 102. The background and flush timers are programmed in conjunction with steps 96 and 102 so that there are two delay features. The first involves a situation where a second flush occurs more than 30 seconds but less than 60 seconds after the first flush. It will be recognized that there is always a 30 second delay between flushes in order to refill the tank 17. In this situation, the toilet may be flushed a second time after the initial 30 second delay, but if this is done, it may then not be flushed a third time until there has been a maximum of 90 seconds from the first flush and add 60 seconds to each flush thereafter. The second alternative involves a situation where the second flush does not occur within 60 seconds of the first flush or 90 seconds after any following flushes. In this case, the background timer automatically resets and the toilet can be flushed again with no limit other than the 30 seconds required to fill the tank. In essence, this means that the toilet may be flushed every 60 seconds without being limited, as in the first case. Referring to FIGS. 16A and B, these represent the flow diagram for embodiment shown in FIG. 12. It will be seen that steps 89-96 are the same as previously described in conjunction with FIG. 15A. If the toilet flush key 110 is selected, which would be activated such as by switch 82, then the same steps 98-102 would be followed as previously explained in conjunction with FIG. 15B. Similarly, the same determinations of the status of the toilet and urinal flush keys are made at 116 and 117. In the event the seat flush feature is activated such as at 112 and by the lid closed switch 84, the same procedure will be followed as indicated at steps 98-102 for the long flush. In the instance where the urinal flush key is activated at 118, a short flush cycle is initiated which is similar to steps 106-108 and 101 and 102 as described in conjunction with FIG. 15B. Referring to FIGS. 17A, B and C, these represent the flow diagrams for the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8-10. The steps 89-96 are the same as previously described in conjunction with FIGS. 15A and 16A except for step 122 where supply valve 60 is turned on. If the long flush key 97 is activated, then main pump 18A is turned on at step 99 after a valid input check at 98. This immediately delivers water to the rim portion 14A by way of conduit 30A. Water is prevented from flowing through conduit 27A to the jet in the bowl portion 12A as jet diaphragm valve 62A is closed. After a delay of 0.5 second as indicated at step 123, the solenoid pilot 63A is activated at step 124. This delivers water from pump 18A to flow to the jet in the bowl portion 12A as well as to the rim portion 14A through conduit 30A. After 3.5 seconds as seen at step 100, the valve 62A is closed at step 125. After a delay of 3.0 seconds as indicated at step 126, water continues to flow to the rim portion 14A. After the 3 second delay, the main pump 18A is turned off at step 101. The remaining steps 102-104 are the same as previously described in conjunction with FIG. 15B. A seat activated function is also shown at step 136 in conjunction with long flush steps 98-101 as previously described. In the event a shorter flush is desired, such as to flush urine or paper, the short flush button 81 is activated to initiate the short flush as indicated at step 105. The subsequent steps 106-130 are essentially the same as indicated for the respective steps 98-126 except for step 108 where the pump is operated for 2.5 seconds rather than 3.5 seconds. In addition to the previous flushing functions, there is also an independent cleanser flush indicated at step 131 which delivers a cleaning fluid to the rim portion 14A. After a valid input check at 132, the main pump 18A and the sanitary pump 54A are turned on at step 133. After a time period of 6.0 seconds at step 133, the main pump 18A and the sanitary pump 54A are turned off at step 134 after which there is a delay period of 60 seconds as shown at 135. Referring also to FIGS. 14 and 17B, it is seen that a signal is sent to the microprocessor 80 from the level sensor 65A. This signal is shown as activated at 137 with the main pump 18A being turned on at 138 as well as the jet solenoid to pump water from the reservoir 16A and to the toilet 10A in order to prevent an overflow condition in the reservoir 16A should float valve assembly 37A malfunction. After a delay of 4 seconds, the main pump 18A and jet solenoid are turned off at 140. If the overflow feature has been active 3 times in 60 minutes as shown at 141, the supply valve 60A is turned off at 141 and a waiting period initiated at 143. An additional safety feature in conjunction with the microprocessor 80 is the closing of supply valve 60A in the event of electrical failure to the control circuit and pump 18A and the failure of float valve assembly 37A to close. Thus our invention provides an improved toilet flushing system which utilizes a minimum of water for each function. The need for double flushing is reduced. While preferred embodiments have been described above, it should be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that a number of modifications and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, while a delivery of flush water to the rim in a first sequence, to the rim and bowl in a second sequence, and to the rim only in a third sequence has been described in conjunction with the pump toilet, this system can be altered to deliver water only to the rim by eliminating the conduits 27, 27A, 27A' and 27A" to the bowl as well as the valve 62A. Alternatively, flush water delivery only to the bowl can be effected by the herein described system by elimination of the conduits 30 and 30A to the rim and valve 62A. Any combination of the delivery of flush water to the rim and/or bowl can be effected by suitable valving. For example, if it is desired to have water flow only to the bowl in one sequence with a rim-bowl-rim delivery, a valve such as 62A can be placed in conduit 30A. Alternatively, a 3-way valve could be used in conjunction with conduits 27, 27A, 27A', 27A" and 30A. A long and short flush cycle have been described in conjunction with the previously disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that these two cycles can be employed independently of the bowl cleaner flush or the seat cover activation. In the same manner, a third longer flush cycle could be utilized with the long and short flush cycle as well as an intermediate one with varying quantities of flush water. Similarly, if desired, only a single flush cycle could be employed by eliminating one of the flush cycles and still operate the pump for a period of time to deliver a quantity of water from the reservoir tank to the toilet bowl. While the reservoir 16B and pump 18B have been described in conjunction with one toilet 10B and one urinal 74B, a multiplicity of these plumbing fixtures could be employed by interconnection with output conduits 73B and 74B. All of the flush cycles previously described in conjunction with embodiment 10A can be utilized with toilet 10B. Further, the seat cover and sanitation functions could be eliminated and still accomplish the water saving feature. Similarly, the overflow features could be eliminated and still accomplish the described water saver functions. Also, the cleanser function could be automated such that the processor would count uses such that after a given number of uses of a toilet (e.g. thirty), the cleaning cycle would automatically occur. A long and short flush cycle have been effected by operating a pump motor for different time intervals. This could also be accomplished by running the pump motor at two different speeds as shown alternatively in dotted line in FIG. 15B. All such and other modifications within the spirit of the invention are meant to be within the scope of the invention.
A toilet has a pump to deliver selected quantities of water from a reservoir to a toilet bowl so as to effect a water savings. In one aspect, both the motor and pump are positioned in the reservoir to deliver water to both the rim and bowl portions. In another aspect, there are conduits connected between the basin, the rim and controls which are provided to deliver water to the rim and bowl either independently, simultaneously or in selective sequences. In alternative embodiments, a refill tube is connected to an intake conduit and the rim of the bowl to effect a water seal, a fail safe valve is connected to the supply conduit, a receptacle with a cleaning fluid and a pump is connected to the bowl and there are at least two receptacles for receiving waste.
4
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Technical Field The present invention is related to data transfer. More particularly, the present invention provides a method for dynamic management of Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) reassembly buffers in hardware (e.g., in a TCP/IP offload engine (TOE)). 2. Related Art One of the challenges of efficient TCP implementation in hardware is the reassembly of an original byte stream from out-of-order TCP segments using reassembly buffers. Management and flexibility of the reassembly buffers plays a significant role in the TCP implementation. One known solution for the reassembly of out-of-order TCP segments is the use of statically allocated reassembly buffers. Although this solution certainly has performance advantages, its lack of scalability, flexibility, and waste of expensive memory resources, makes such a solution unacceptable for large-scale implementations. There is a need, therefore, for a method and system for the dynamic management of TCP reassembly buffers in hardware. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a method for the dynamic management of TCP reassembly buffers in hardware. Dynamic memory management significantly improves the flexibility and scalability of available memory resources. The major challenge of dynamic memory management of TCP reassembly buffers in hardware, however, is to reduce its associated performance penalty and to bring its performance as close as possible to the performance achieved by static memory management methods. The present invention accomplishes these goals. The present invention provides a method for flexible dynamic memory management of TCP reassembly buffers, allowing efficient hardware implementation. In addition, the method of the present invention allow combined dynamic and static memory management using the same hardware implementation. The decision to use dynamic or static memory management is done on a per reassembly buffer basis to further increase the efficiency of the hardware implementation. A first aspect of the present invention is directed to a method for dynamically managing a reassembly buffer, comprising: providing a plurality of data blocks and an indirect list; pointing, via entries in the indirect list, to allocated data blocks in the plurality of data blocks that currently store incoming data; if a free data block in the plurality of data blocks is required for the storage of incoming data, allocating the free data block for storing incoming data; and, if an allocated data block in the plurality of data blocks is no longer needed for storing incoming data, deallocating the allocated data block such that the deallocated data block becomes a free data block. A second aspect of the present invention provides a method for storing out-of-order data segments in a reassembly buffer, comprising: providing a plurality of data blocks and an indirect list having a plurality of entries; providing each data segment with a sequence number, wherein the sequence number specifies which entry in the indirect list is to be associated with the data segment; determining if any of the plurality of data blocks has already been allocated to the specified entry in the indirect list; if a data block has already been allocated to the specified entry, storing the data segment in the allocated data block; and if a data block has not already been allocated to the specified entry, allocating a free data block for the storage of the data segment, and storing the data segment in the allocated free data block. The foregoing and other features of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of embodiments of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The embodiments of this invention will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein like designations denote like elements, and wherein: FIG. 1 illustrates a reassembly buffer in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 2 illustrates a free list shared between all of the reassembly buffers in the system. FIGS. 3-4 illustrate the allocation of a free data block from the free list, wherein the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) points to an entry in the middle of an indirect list of the free list. FIGS. 5-6 illustrate the allocation of a free data block from the free list, wherein the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) points to the last entry of an indirect list of the free list. FIG. 7-8 illustrate the deallocation of a data block to the free list, wherein the tail pointer (FLTailPtr) points to an entry in the middle of an indirect list of the free list. FIG. 9-10 illustrate the deallocation of a data block to the free list, wherein the tail pointer (FLTailPtr) points to the last entry of an indirect list in the free list. FIG. 11 illustrates sequence number decoding. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a method and system for flexible dynamic memory management of TCP reassembly buffers. A reassembly buffer 10 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1 . The reassembly buffer 10 includes a reassembly memory region 12 comprising a plurality of constant size pages (e.g., 4k), called data blocks 14 , available to the reassembly buffer 10 , and memory manager logic 16 for controlling operation (e.g., data block allocation/deallocation) of the reassembly buffer 10 . Each data block 14 comprises a memory block (e.g., a continuous chunk of memory) that is used to hold incoming TCP data 18 to be reassembled. The reassembly buffer 10 is defined by an indirect list 20 . Typically, a plurality of reassembly buffers 10 are provided in a data transfer system. The indirect list 20 is a contiguous memory block that holds a plurality (e.g., 256) of pointers to the data blocks 14 and, if needed, a pointer to another indirect list. Given data blocks 14 having a size 4k, and 256 pointers in the indirect list 20 , for example, the reassembly buffer 10 is capable of holding up to 1 Mb of incoming TCP data 18 . By pointing to another indirect list 20 , however, which may itself contain a pointer to yet another indirect list 20 , and so on, a chain of indirect lists 20 is created. As such, the scalability and maximum size of the reassembly buffer 10 can be dynamically increased as needed. During initialization of a reassembly buffer 10 , the reassembly buffer 10 is provided with an empty indirect list 20 . Either during initialization or run time, each reassembly buffer 10 can be upgraded to include more than one indirect list 20 , which are chained together as detailed above. As stated above, the reassembly buffer 10 has one (or more) indirect lists 20 associated with it. Each entry 22 in the indirect list 20 can be either free or allocated. An entry 22 in the indirect list 20 is allocated if it points to a data block 14 holding data to be reassembled, or if it points to another indirect list 20 . For example, referring to FIG. 1 , the entries 22 1 , 22 2 , and 22 5 are allocated because they each contain a pointer 24 1 , 24 2 , and 24 5 to data blocks 14 1 , 14 2 , and 14 5 , respectively, holding data to be reassembled. The entry 22 n is allocated because it contains a pointer 24 n to another indirect list 20 , while the entries 22 3 , 22 4 and 22 6 - 22 n-1 are not allocated and are therefore free. Several bits of each entry 22 in the indirect list 20 can be used to carry in-place control information. For example, one bit of each entry 22 in the indirect list 20 can be used to provide an allocated/free indication, which indicates whether the entry 22 holds a pointer 24 to an allocated data block 14 or another indirect list 20 , or whether the entry 22 is free and is part of a free list (discussed below), respectively. Another entry 22 in the indirect list 20 can be used to provide a DataBlock/IndirectList indication, which indicates whether the entry 22 holds a pointer 24 to an allocated data block 14 or to another indirect list 20 , respectively. The reassembly buffer 10 also has access to a free list 30 , illustrated in FIG. 2 , that is shared between all of the reassembly buffers 10 in the system. The free list 30 provides access to a pool of free data blocks 14 F that are not consumed by any reassembly buffer 10 and that can be shared among the reassembly buffers 10 as data blocks 14 or indirect lists 20 , upon request. During system initialization, the free list 30 is initialized to hold all free data blocks 14 F available to the reassembly buffers 10 in the system. The free list 30 can thus be considered a system resource pool of free data blocks 14 F . It should be noted that upon reassembly buffer 10 deallocation, the empty indirect list(s) 20 are also returned to the system resource pool (i.e., to the free list 30 ). The free list 30 is a chain of indirect lists 32 implemented as a stack. The entries 34 in each indirect list 32 , with the exception of the last entry 34 in each indirect list 32 , contain a pointer 36 to a free data block 14 F that is not consumed by any reassembly buffer 10 . The last entry 34 in each indirect list 32 includes a pointer 38 to the next indirect list 32 in the free list 30 . The free list 30 is defined using two pointers: a tail pointer (FLTailPtr) and a head pointer (FLHeadPtr). The tail pointer (FLTailPtr) is used during the data block deallocation process to point to the next entry 34 in the free list 30 that will be used to point to the next deallocated (i.e., “freed”) data block 14 F . The header pointer (FLHeadPtr) is used during the data block allocation process to point to the entry 34 in the free list 30 that points to the next available free data block 14 F to be allocated. Two basic memory management operations are performed in accordance with the present invention: allocation of a free data block 14 F from the free list 30 —either to become an allocated data block 14 or an indirect list 20 ; and, deallocation of an allocated data block 14 to the free list 30 —either to become a free data block 14 F or an indirect list 32 . These operations are used to load incoming TCP data 18 into the reassembly buffers 10 , or to transfer the reassembled TCP data 18 from the allocated data blocks 14 to destination buffers. The data block allocation process will be discussed in greater detail below with regard to FIGS. 3-6 . The data block deallocation process will be discussed in greater detail below with regard to FIGS. 7-10 . In the exemplary free list 30 shown in FIG. 3 , which is shown for clarity as including only two indirect lists 32 1 and 32 2 , the free data blocks 14 F associated with the entries 34 1 , 34 2 in the indirect list 32 1 have already been allocated to a reassembly buffer 10 for the storage of TCP data 18 ( FIG. 1 ). To this extent, the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) now points to the entry (i.e., entry 34 3 ) in the indirect list 32 , associated with the next available free data block 14 F to be allocated to a reassembly buffer 10 for the storage of TCP data 18 . The allocation process can follow several different scenarios. One such scenario is shown in FIG. 3 , where the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) points to an entry (i.e., entry 34 3 ) that is in the middle of an indirect list (i.e., indirect list 32 1 ). In this case, the free data block 14 F referred to by entry 34 3 via pointer 36 3 is the next free data block 14 F to be allocated. As shown in FIG. 4 , after the free data block 14 F referred to by entry 34 3 via pointer 36 3 has been allocated, the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) is moved to point to the next entry 34 4 in the same indirect list 32 1 . In general, this scenario is followed if the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) points to an entry (i.e., 34 1 - 34 n-1 ) that is not the last entry (i.e., 34 n ) in an indirect list 32 . Referring now to FIG. 5 , a second scenario is illustrated. In this scenario, the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) points to the last entry (i.e., entry 34 n ) in the indirect list 32 1 of the free list 30 . This entry in the indirect list 32 1 is used to point, via pointer 38 1 , to the next indirect list (i.e., indirect list 32 2 ) in the chain of indirect lists 32 forming the free list 30 . In this case, the indirect list 32 1 itself becomes the next free data block to be allocated to a reassembly buffer 10 for the storage of TCP data 18 . As shown in FIG. 6 , after the indirect list 32 1 has been allocated, the head pointer (FLHeadPtr) is moved to point to the first entry 34 1 in the next indirect list 32 2 in the chain of indirect lists 32 forming the free list 30 . As mentioned above, the free list 30 is defined using two pointers: a tail pointer (FLTailPtr) and a head pointer (FLHeadPtr). The tail pointer (FLTailPtr) is used during the data block deallocation process to point to the next entry 34 in the free list 30 that will be used to point to the next deallocated (i.e., “freed”) data block 14 F . The deallocation process can follow one of several scenarios as described below with regard to FIGS. 7-10 . In FIG. 7 , a first scenario is shown, wherein the tail pointer (FLTailPtr) points to an entry (i.e. entry 34 4 ) in the middle of an indirect list (i.e., indirect list 32 2 ) of the free list 30 . The addition of a newly deallocated free data block 14 F to the free list 30 , as illustrated in FIG. 8 , involves updating entry 34 4 such that it now points, via pointer 36 4 to the newly deallocated free data block 14 F , and moving the tail pointer (FLTailPtr) such that it points to the next entry 34 5 in the same indirect list 32 2 . A second scenario is illustrated in FIG. 9 . In this scenario, the tail pointer (FLTailPtr) points to the last entry (i.e. entry 34 n ) of an indirect list (i.e., indirect list 32 1 ) of the free list 30 . As shown in FIG. 10 , a newly deallocated free data block 14 F is used as the next indirect list 32 2 in the chain of indirect lists 32 that form the free list 30 . The last entry 34 n in the indirect list 32 1 is updated to point, via pointer 38 1 , to the newly deallocated free data block used as the next indirect list 32 2 , and the tail pointer (FLTailPtr) is moved to point to the first entry 34 1 of the new indirect list 32 2 . It should be noted that some number of recently deallocated free data blocks 14 F (e.g. 16 ) may be cached in registers, without returning them to the free list 30 . This allows the cached free data blocks 14 F to be reused (allocated again) without first going to the free list 30 , thereby increasing the performance of the allocation process. Such a cache 42 is shown schematically in FIG. 1 . As presented in detail above, two basic memory management operations are performed in accordance with the present invention: allocation of a free data block 14 F from the free list 30 —either to become an allocated data block 14 or an indirect list 20 ; and, deallocation of an allocated data block 14 to the free list 30 —either to become a free data block 14 F or an indirect list 32 . These operations are used to place incoming TCP data 18 into the reassembly buffers 10 , or to transfer the reassembled TCP data 18 from the allocated data blocks 14 to destination buffers. Movement of the reassembled TCP data 18 from a reassembly buffer 10 is performed in order, based on the TCP sequence number (SN) of the TCP data. However, placement of TCP data 18 into a reassembly buffer 10 can be performed in any order, and this may create “holes” (i.e., not allocated entries 22 ) in the indirect list(s) 20 belonging to a reassembly buffer 10 . This allows efficient use of memory resources without filling holes with not-yet-used data blocks 14 . To allow out-of-order placement of TCP data 18 in the reassembly buffer 10 , the low level protocol (LLP) of the system needs to provide a byte sequence number and a data length identifying a data chunk (e.g., SN in TCP). That number is used both to find the entry in an indirect list 20 and an offset in a data block 14 . Since all data blocks 14 have the same aligned size, and each reassembly buffer has a known number of indirect lists 20 (one in most cases), the entry 22 in indirect list 20 and offset in a data block 14 can be decoded from the sequence number. An example of this process is shown in FIG. 11 . In FIG. 11 , the data block 14 size is 2K and the reassembly buffer 10 includes a chain of four indirect lists 20 . The maximum size of the reassembly buffer 10 is therefore limited to 4 MB. As shown, assuming a 32-bit SN, bits 20 - 21 hold the number of the indirect list 20 , bits 10 - 11 hold the number of the entry 22 in the indirect list, and bits 0 - 10 hold the offset in the data block 14 . Although the dynamic memory management described above provides for a flexible and scalable system solution, one disadvantage is the performance degradation relative to static memory management schemes. To overcome this problem, the dynamic memory management of the present invention allows static allocation of the data blocks 14 to the reassembly buffers 10 , on a per-reassembly buffer 10 basis, and this way allows for the creation of faster (i.e., static) reassembly buffers 10 . Each reassembly buffer 10 includes a bit 40 (e.g., set by the memory manager logic 16 ) indicating a mode in which the reassembly buffer 10 is to operate (i.e., either dynamic or static). Specifically, the bit 40 indicates whether the memory manager logic 16 should deallocate the data blocks 14 after the reassembled TCP data 18 has been moved to the destination buffers. In the dynamic memory management mode, a data block 14 is deallocated after all of the data from that block has been moved to the destination buffers, and then the data block is returned to the pool of free data blocks 14 F defined by the free list 30 . In the static memory management mode, however, data blocks 14 are never deallocated. In particular, during initialization, the reassembly buffer 10 is provided with one or more indirect lists 20 with all entries 22 allocated. Since the data blocks 14 belonging to the reassembly buffer 10 are never deallocated, the reception of new TCP data 18 would never cause the allocation process to be performed. Therefore, in the static memory management mode, the process of allocation and deallocation of the data blocks 14 does not occur, making the reassembly buffer 10 faster than reassembly buffers 10 operating in the dynamic memory management mode: However, the hardware implementation would remain the same for both the dynamic and static memory management modes. It is understood that the systems, functions, mechanisms, methods, and modules described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. They may be implemented by any type of computer system or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methods described herein. A typical combination of hardware and software could be a general-purpose computer system with a computer program that, when loaded and executed, controls the computer system such that it carries out the methods described herein. Alternatively, a specific use computer, containing specialized hardware for carrying out one or more of the functional tasks of the invention could be utilized. The present invention can also be embedded in a computer program product, which comprises all the features enabling the implementation of the methods and functions described herein, and which—when loaded in a computer system—is able to carry out these methods and functions. Computer program, software program, program, program product, or software, in the present context mean any expression, in any language, code or notation, of a set of instructions intended to cause a system having an information processing capability to perform a particular function either directly or after either or both of the following: (a) conversion to another language, code or notation; and/or (b) reproduction in a different material form. While this invention has been described in conjunction with the specific embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the embodiments of the invention as set forth above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.
A method for dynamic management of Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) reassembly buffers in hardware (e.g., in a TCP/IP offload engine (TOE)). The method comprises: providing a plurality of data blocks and an indirect list; pointing, via entries in the indirect list, to allocated data blocks in the plurality of data blocks that currently store incoming data; if a free data block in the plurality of data blocks is required for the storage of incoming data, allocating the free data block for storing incoming data; and, if an allocated data block in the plurality of data blocks is no longer needed for storing incoming data, deallocating the allocated data block such that the deallocated data block becomes a free data block.
7
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates generally to non-volatile semiconductor memory such as electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) and flash EEPROM, and specifically to cache operations based on shared latch structures allowing overlapping memory operations. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] In the design of non-volatile memories, such as flash memory, there is a continuing process of improving these memories by increasing their storage density, increasing their performance, and reduce power consumption. Improvements in one of these requirements will often negatively affect one of the others. For example, to improve storage density, flash memory with multiple levels per cell can be used to replace the binary chips; however, the speed of operations can be slower in multi-state memories, such as in the case of writing data where the tolerances between states become stricter. Consequently, the performance level of memories having multi-level cells has much scope for improvement. [0003] These and related problems, along with additional background information, is given in the Background section of U.S. patent application publication numbers US-2006-0221704-A1 and US-2007-0109867-A1. The following U.S. patent application publication numbers also provide additional background information: US 2006-0233023-A1; US 2006-0233021-A1; US 2006-0221696-A1; US 2006-0233010-A1; US 2006-0239080-A1; and US 2007-0002626-A1. As noted below, all of these are fully incorporated herein by reference. [0004] Therefore there is a general need for high performance and high capacity non-volatile memory. In particular, there is a need for a compact non-volatile memory with enhanced read and program performance having an improved processor that is compact and efficient, yet highly versatile for processing data among the read/writing circuits. SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0005] A non-volatile memory and corresponding method of operation are presented, where the memory has addressable pages of memory cells and each memory cell of an addressed page is provided with a set of corresponding data latches that can latch a predetermined number of bits. The memory can perform a first operation (such as a write, for example) on a designated group of one or more addressed pages using a first set of data stored in the corresponding set of data latches and also receive a request for a second operation (such as a read, for example) that also uses some of these corresponding data latches with a second set of data. During the first operation, when at least one latch of each set of the corresponding becomes available for the second operation, it is determined whether there are a sufficient number of the corresponding set of data latches to perform the second operation during the first operation; if not, the second operation is delayed. In additional aspects, the memory subsequently performs the second operation during the first operation when a sufficient number of latches become available; and if, in response to determining whether there are a sufficient number of the corresponding set of data latches to perform the second operation it is determined that there are a sufficient number, performing the second operation during the first operation. [0006] Various aspects, advantages, features and embodiments of the present invention are included in the following description of exemplary examples thereof, which description should be taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. All patents, patent applications, articles, other publications, documents and things referenced herein are hereby incorporated herein by this reference in their entirety for all purposes. To the extent of any inconsistency or conflict in the definition or use of terms between any of the incorporated publications, documents or things and the present application, those of the present application shall prevail. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0007] FIG. 1 illustrates inserting a read inside a cache program operation. [0008] FIG. 2 illustrates inserting a read inside a cache erase operation. [0009] FIG. 3 shows a particular programming order for pages and some corresponding look ahead reads. [0010] FIG. 4 illustrates inserting a read inside a cache program operation when there are insufficient latches available. [0011] FIG. 5 illustrates inserting a read inside a cache erase operation when there are insufficient latches available. [0012] FIG. 6 is another example of inserting a read inside a cache program operation when there are insufficient latches available. [0013] FIG. 7 shows schematically how various cache points occur. [0014] FIG. 8 is a flow chart for one basic embodiment of the adaptive algorithm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0015] As non-volatile memories, such as NAND flash memory, with multi levels per cell are used to replace binary chips, there is a generally agreed need for performance to improve. One set of performance enhancements is based on utilizing complicated cache algorithm to do parallel operations at the same time. Examples of some such enhancements are given U.S. patent application publication numbers US-2006-0221704-A1 and US-2007-0109867-A1. Reference is also made to the following U.S. patent application publication numbers, which provide additional detail on many aspects: US 2006-0233023-A1; US 2006-0233021-A1; US 2006-0221696-A1; US 2006-0233010-A1; US 2006-0239080-A1; and US 2007-0002626-A1. All of these references, along with references cited therein, are fully incorporated herein by reference, as noted above. Some of the techniques are described below to provide context for the subsequent development, but reference is again made to these prior applications for further detail. In this regard, the following can to some degree be considered a further development of what is described there. [0016] In the aforementioned patent documents, particular reference is made to the sections describing the use of data latches and how these can be used to insert one operation, such as a read, within a second, longer operation, such as a program. Although much of that previous discussion was given primarily for 2-bit per cell embodiments, much the discussion here is related to aspects which are most pertinent for cases of 3 or more bits per cell. [0017] Look Ahead read is an algorithm that uses a corrective reading that depends on the data of the next word. Read with the LA (“Look Ahead”) correction basically examines the memory states programmed into the cells on an adjacent wordline and corrects any perturbation effect they have on the memory cells being read on the current wordline. If the pages have been programming according to a preferred programming scheme described in the cited references, then the adjacent wordline will be from the wordline immediately above the current one. The LA correction scheme would require the data on the adjacent wordline to be read prior to the current page. [0018] The number of data latches required to do a LA read will depend on the correction that is required. In some cases this will be a 1 bit correction, others will use a 2 bit or 3 bit correction. The correction needed for each page will depend on the program sequence that the page and the adjacent pages went through. In some cases, one page will need only 1 bit correction, while another page will possibly use 2 bit correction. These different correction levels will use different numbers of data latches to handle the LA read. When doing mixed cache operations, such as inserting a read in cache program for a copy function, or inserting a read in a cache erase operation, the variations of data latch requirements for the read is preferably accounted for in the cache algorithms. The data latch requirement is also unknown before the user (e.g., a controller or host) issues the address. To better handle these complications a new cache algorithm, called adaptive algorithm in the following, is introduced. [0019] In order to provide context, these techniques will described below in an embodiment using a “look ahead” read” (“LA”) and a “lower middle” (“LM”) coding for the data multi-states. Such an arrangement is presented in more detail in the US patent publications cited above, such as in US 2006-0239080-A1, beginning at paragraph [0295], in the section entitled “Cache Read Algorithm for LM code with LA Correction”. Briefly, as described there, a scheme for caching read data is implemented so that even for read operation whose correction depend on data from a neighboring physical page or wordline, the data latches and I/O bus are efficiently used to toggle out a previously read page while a current page is being sensed from the memory core. One preferred read operation is a “look ahead” (“LA”) read and a preferred coding for the memory states is the “lower middle” (“LM”) code. When the read for a current page on a current wordline must be preceded by a prerequisite read of data on an adjacent wordline, the prerequisite read along with any I/O access is preemptively done in the cycle for reading a previous page so that the current read can be performed while the previously read page is busy with the I/O access. The LA reading scheme has been disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/099,049 filed on Apr. 5, 2005, entitled, “Read Operations for Non-Volatile Storage that Includes Compensation for Coupling,” which entire disclosure is herein incorporated by reference. Read with the LA (“Look Ahead”) correction basically examines the memory states programmed into the cells on an adjacent wordline and corrects any perturbation effect they have on the memory cells being read on the current wordline. If the pages have been programming according to the preferred programming scheme described above, then the adjacent wordline will be from the wordline immediately above the current one. The LA correction scheme would require the data on the adjacent wordline to be read prior to the current page. [0020] Returning to the further developments being presented here in this exemplary embodiment, when the data latch requirement is associated to the LM flag, then the user command may be executed and internally determined that there are not enough data latches to finish the execution of the command. The adaptive algorithm remembers the user command, waits for the availability of the sufficient data latches, and then executes the command as the data latches become available during the course of the operation. [0021] FIGS. 1 and 2 respectively give example of inserting a read into a cache program and a cache erase operation. In the cache program with copy operation of FIG. 1 , the process begins with the program operation beginning at 101 . This continues until a first latch in is freed up in the corresponding stacks of data latches at 103 , a process described in more detail US-2006-0221704-A1 and US-2007-0109867-A1. At this point a read can be inserted into the program operation at 105 , after which the write operation continues at 107 . In the course of programming, a second latch again becomes available at 109 . This second latch may be the same latch as at 103 , or a different latch in the same stack. Again, as this process is generally implemented at the page level, the typical embodiment would then require a corresponding latch for each cell in the page. In any case, a read is then again inserted at 111 , after which the program operation continues on at 113 . [0022] FIG. 2 is the corresponding arrangement for a cache erase with read. An erase process, here with including a soft programming operation, is started at 210 . At 203 , data latches are avail for an interposed operation. Since a soft program operation can be considered a sort of binary programming operation, for N-state memory cells, this will typically result in the there being (N−1) available latches. A read operation can then be interposed at 205 , after which the soft programming phase can continue. [0023] When the insert read operation ( 105 or 111 in FIG. 1 , 205 in FIG. 2 ) is a look ahead read operation, the data latch requirements will depend on the amount of correction used. In one algorithm, in order to perform a look ahead read on wordline n (WLn), 1 bit correction will use 2 data latches, with one data latch is for WLn+1 data and one for 1 page of WLn data. Similarly, with 2 bit correction, 3 data latches are used (two for WLn+1 data and one for 1 page of WLn data), and with 3 bit correction, 4 data latches are used (three for WLn+1 data and one for 1 page of WLn data). An alternate embodiment that will require only two latches for all LA corrections is described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/618,569 and 11/618,578. [0024] Next, the inclusion of the lower middle (“LM”) page order and the corresponding latch requirements are consider when combined with the LA read, an arrangement that is developed in more detail in a U.S. patent application entitled “Different Combinations of Wordline Order and Look-Ahead read to improve Non-Volatile Memory performance” of Yan Li, filed Mar. 19, 2008. Taking the 3 bits per cell case, the pages may be arranged so that the lower and middle are consecutive and programmed together, but where the upper page will be jumped in a way that upper page program will tend to eliminate the middle page to middle page WL-WL coupling effects. The upper page is programmed after the next wordline's middle page program. [0025] The process is shown in FIG. 3 , where pages 0 and 1 are programmed together on the first wordline (WL 0 ) as the lower and middle pages, followed by pages 2 and 3 being programmed together as the lower and middle pages on the next wordline (WL 1 ). Next the process drops back a page (to WL 0 ) and programs the upper page (page 4 ) and then jumps ahead two wordlines (to WL 2 ) and programs the lower and middle page (pages 5 and 6 ). This drop back for the upper page and jump ahead for the two lower pages continues for the rest of the data set, where a, b and c are pages 10 , 11 , 12 in hexadecimal notation. In this way, much of the WL-WL and BL-BL coupling effects will be effectively corrected by the upper page program. During upper page program, the lower and middle page will be read in with LA read to correctively read in data from the memory cells. In this page arrangement, an upper page read will need only 1 bit correction, since the upper page is only coupled to the next WL upper page program. A middle page read, on the other hand, will use 2 bits for LA read correction, since lower and middle page can couple the previous wordlines middle page voltage thresholds. [0000] Adaptive Algorithm to Deal with Dynamic Data Latch Requirements [0026] As can be seen from the examples just given, the data latch requirements for such cache operations is variable depending on the circumstances. The adaptive algorithm given here takes this into account. [0027] Going back to the example of a cache program with an inserted read for copy case, this is shown in FIG. 4 , where the program operation begins at 401 . As the operation continues, at some point a pair of latches for each cell in the page is freed up at 403 . At this point a read can be inserted as shown at 405 . This may either be a read that the state machine was already holding, waiting for latches to open up, or a read request that comes in after the latches open, in which case the programming would have continued until the read came in. In either case, once the read is inserted, it may be determined that 2 latches are not enough to complete this read. A read command may be entered when 2 data latch is available, but may only be executed by assuming that the upper page read uses only a 1 bit LA read; however, if the page does not have its upper page programmed, it will need 2 bits for the LA read. Typically, the latches will have been filled with program data, but once it is determined that further latches are needed, the read data would be treated as invalid. In this situation, the read command the user (i.e., the controller) issued cannot be completed until more data latches are available. In this example, the read cannot be executed until 3 data latches are available. Once the memory determines that there are insufficient latches and the read cannot be completed, the command held until the needed latches are available, as shown by the arrow. [0028] Meanwhile, the write process continues at 407 until, at 409 , another latch is opened up. The read is then inserted again and completed at 411 , after which the write continues at 413 . It should be noted that this is just one generic example of the process which could have a number of variations; for example, this case assumes that the write is not completed prior to step 413 . [0029] A similar situation can happen in a cache erase inserting a read, as shown in FIG. 5 . The erase with soft program begins at 501 . For N=3 bits of data per cell, there are 2 data latch available in soft program (at 503 ), which is able to handle a 1 bit LA read; but if 2 bits LA read is needed, then the read has to be executed after the whole soft program completed. Consequently, the read is inserted at 505 and, if there are not the needed number of latches to successfully complete the read, it is but on hold, the soft program is resumed at 507 and finished at 509 , after which the read is re-inserted at 511 . [0030] FIG. 6 illustrates another situation, where the adaptive cache operation could be complicated to manage. FIG. 6 shows an example where a first read is executed in 601 - 607 without needing more latches than the available latches, much as in patent publications referenced above. This read-in page will be checked for ECC and then ready to be programmed into another location. During the upper page program (part of 607 ), a second read can be inserted at 611 . If the second read can not be executed due to the unavailability of sufficient data latches, the second read can not be executed immediately and will wait until the upper page finish its program ( 613 ). [0031] At the end of upper page program, the first read data (which has not yet been programmed) is still in the data latches will be transferred to the right location. The second read command can be executed after the upper page program finished. Once a program has to be started again ( 615 ) the incomplete read can be executed again ( 617 ), much as described with respect to FIG. 4 . General Management for Adaptive Algorithm [0032] A general adaptive cache operation algorithm can be illustrated by FIGS. 7 and 8 . In the cache operation, there are multiple cache points which indicate that another operation can be inserted. FIG. 7 shows this conceptually, where time is taken as running to the right and diagram picks up at some more or less arbitrary point in operation of an ongoing write command. The various available cache points are as indicated at 701 , 703 , . . . , 713 , where the write operation that was in process when FIG. 7 begins ends at 731 , after which the next write takes up. [0033] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of one exemplary embodiment. A command for the operation will be issued and at a cache point (indicated by a Ready/Busy signal, for example) the command is entered. After the user command issued, the state machine will check if there are enough data latches to execute this command at 803 . If there are enough data latches (yes out of 805 ), then the user command can be executed immediately at 807 and then return to 801 . [0034] If there are not enough data latches available (No out of 805 ) or the previous queued cache is still in the pipeline, then the old operation will be resumed ( 809 ) while the cache pointer is tracked to get the next available cache point. At the next cache point, the execution of the previous user command will be evaluated again ( 811 ) based on 2 factors: 1) the cache queue in the pipeline; 2) the data latch availability. Once the command is at the head of the queue and there are sufficient latches, the command can then be executed at 807 . In all the cache operations, the address and commands has to be saved in FIFO pipelines. [0035] Although the various aspects of the present invention have been described with respect to certain embodiments, it is understood that the invention is entitled to protection within the full scope of the appended claims.
A non-volatile memory can perform a first operation (such as a write, for example) on a designated group of one or more addressed pages using a first set of data stored in the corresponding set of data latches and also receive a request for a second operation (such as a read, for example) that also uses some of these corresponding data latches with a second set of data. During the first operation, when at least one latch of each set of the corresponding become available for the second operation, the memory whether there are a sufficient number of the corresponding set of data latches to perform the second operation during the first operation; if not, the second operation is delayed. The memory subsequently can perform the second operation during the first operation when a sufficient number of latches become available; and if, in response to determining whether there are a sufficient number of the corresponding set of data latches to perform the second operation it is determined that there are a sufficient number, performing the second operation during the first operation.
6
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The invention is generally related to the lubrication of wire ropes and more particularly to the in situ lubrication of wire ropes on cranes. [0003] 2. General Background [0004] Wire rope is a flexible, tough, complex, and versatile mechanical power transmission member made up of numerous individual wires. During normal operation these wires are subject to torsion, bending, tension, and compression stresses. To achieve maximum performance and life, lubrication of the wire rope structure must be maintained so that coordinated sliding action between individual wires permits most favorable distribution of these stresses. Good lubrication offers protection against corrosion and minimizes metal-to-metal contact between individual wires while reducing wear on the rope and on the drum and sheaves over which it operates. [0005] Wire rope used on cranes typically is pre-lubed by the manufacturer with a base lubricant. Typically, this is a thick lubricant with very high viscosity (10 to 30,000 SUS) that provides good protection during storage. However, to perform properly, a wire rope must also be field lubricated periodically. For this post-lube application a lighter viscosity oil such as 150 SUS must be applied to the rope because, during operation, tensions in the rope and pressure encountered while operating over sheaves and drums all work toward forcing the original lubricant to the rope surface. New oil is needed to counteract that action. [0006] Field lubrication of wire rope has traditionally been done by one or more methods. A stationary device may be positioned such that it surrounds the wire rope in a continuous bath and lubricates the rope as it moves through the device. Lubricant may be dripped or poured on the wire rope and the excess then wiped off. Lubricant may be swabbed or painted on the wire rope. Some of these operations must be done manually. [0007] The nature of large cranes, especially those used on derrick barges for offshore work, precludes the use of most of the current lubrication methods for several reasons. Large cranes have miles of wire rope, some of which moves in excess of one hundred feet per minute. Cranes achieve a mechanical advantage by the use of multi-sheaved wire rope block assemblies. This creates numerous closely spaced wire loops, which make in-situ lubrication very difficult. Conventional wire rope lubricators are not well suited to address a plurality of closely spaced wires due to the large size of the lubricators and their inability to operate in hands-off mode (they require constant attention and adjustment). Current lubrication devices are not designed for a plurality of wire ropes like the ones present in a multi-sheaved wire rope assembly. Current lubrication devices can not be installed and maintained in inaccessible locations like the boom of a derrick crane or the main block of a multi-sheaved hoist. Current lubrication devices are typically stationary but rely on relative motion between wire and lubricator. One such device is the pressurized clamshell lubricator. Pressurized clamshell lubricators have a split-housing chamber with round openings in their axial direction. The wire rope is fed through the axial openings and bathed in lubricant. Current clamshell units have disadvantages. They require a lot of time to set up and take down. Also, they must be removed during normal crane operation. Bathing the wire rope in lubricant tends to use excess lubricant that is not required. This wastes lubricant and causes pollution problems. In a crane, portions of the wire rope are stationary once installed. Thus, a stationary lubrication device is ineffective for those portions of wire rope. [0008] It can be seen that the current state of the art does not address all needs in lubricating wire rope on cranes. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] The invention allows for lubrication of the entire length of wire rope in a crane after wire is installed. This is done with the various devices that are described herein. Spray nozzles may be permanently mounted to the multi-sheaved wire block assemblies. A controller and oil supply located near the base of the crane are used to control and deliver oil to the spray nozzles. A telescopic spray unit is used to lubricate the vertical stationary wire rope. A crawler that rides on the wire rope is used to lubricate the stationary wire rope between the anchor point and the first sheave of the block assembly. Improved clamshell units are used to lubricate the wire rope between the drums storing wire rope and the first sheave. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0010] For a further understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention reference should be made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like parts are given like reference numerals, and wherein: [0011] [0011]FIG. 1 is an elevation view of a crane on a barge. [0012] [0012]FIG. 2 illustrates a spray nozzle mounted on a sheave block. [0013] [0013]FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of FIG. 2. [0014] [0014]FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the spray nozzle arrangement. [0015] [0015]FIG. 5 is an elevation view of a manual lubricating device. [0016] [0016]FIG. 6 is a top view of the device of FIG. 5. [0017] [0017]FIG. 7 is a plan view of a crawler lubrication device. [0018] [0018]FIG. 8 is an end view of the crawler device being installed on a wire rope. [0019] [0019]FIG. 9 is an end view of the crawler device installed on a wire rope. [0020] [0020]FIG. 10 is an elevation view of an improved clamshell lubricating device. [0021] [0021]FIG. 11 is a top view of the device shown in FIG. 10. [0022] [0022]FIG. 12 is a cutaway view of the clamshell device of FIG. 10. [0023] [0023]FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of the area indicated in FIG. 12. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT [0024] Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 indicates a typical crane 10 on a barge 12 . Wire spools 14 hold a supply of wire rope 16 that is threaded around a series of pulleys 18 , a boom sheave block 20 , and a hoist sheave block 22 . The sheave blocks typically are multi-sheave units that require multiple wraps of the wire rope. [0025] A wire rope lubrication apparatus provided for the wire rope at the sheave blocks is generally comprised of spray nozzles 24 , a controller 26 , an oil supply 28 , an air/oil line 30 , and flow control means 32 . [0026] [0026]FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the apparatus. A pump 34 directs oil from the oil supply 28 into the oil line 30 a . A compressed air source 36 supplies compressed air to the air line 30 b through air filter 38 . Flow controls 32 are comprised of a liquid pressure regulator 40 , oil filter 42 , shut-off valves 44 , air pressure regulators 46 , and solenoid valves 48 . Shut-off valves 44 are used to block the flow of fluids during preventive maintenance operations. Solenoid valves 48 activate the spray nozzle arrangement to spray lubricant on the wire rope through the nozzles 24 . [0027] [0027]FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the mounting of the spray nozzle 24 on a sheave block 20 and a detail view of the spray nozzle arrangement. An atomizing nozzle 50 is housed in a bracket 52 mounted on the sheave block 20 . Low pressure air from line 54 is used to atomize lubricant delivered through lubricant line 56 . A high pressure air line 58 is used to activate a piston (not shown) in a cylinder that cleans the orifice of the atomizing nozzle 50 . Although only one spray nozzle arrangement is shown and described, it should be understood that a plurality of spray nozzle arrangements may be provided to accommodate all wraps of the wire rope 16 around the multiple sheaves of the block. [0028] In operation, an operator uses the controller 26 as necessary to direct lubricant to the wire rope on the sheave blocks. [0029] [0029]FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a manual wire rope lubricating device 60 that is particularly suitable for lubricating the vertical stationary wire ropes 62 (at the anchor point of a block) that can not be lubricated by in-line lubrication devices. Lubricating device 60 is comprised of an atomizing nozzle 50 mounted in a body 64 . Body 64 is provided with a plurality of concave wheels 66 either rotatably mounted therein or locked to function as skids. Wheels 66 are sized to be received on the stationary wire rope 62 to provide guidance and keep the nozzle 50 at the proper attitude and location. One end of the body 64 is provided with a hinged, spring loaded shroud 68 to provide for ease of placing on the wire rope 62 . A telescoping handle 70 is pivotally attached at 72 as illustrated. Oil and air are supplied to the nozzle 50 via line 74 . Oil and air can be supplied with a pressurized canister not shown having both fluids. Alternatively, air can be supplied with a conventional compressor and oil supplied by a positive displacement pump. Fluid pressure regulators will be mounted near the source. An operator opens the hinged shroud 68 , places the wheels 66 against the wire rope 62 , closes the shroud 68 , turns on the air and oil supply and then uses the handle to move the device along the length of wire rope 62 . The oil discharge from the nozzle lubricates the wire rope. The shroud 68 captures excess oil and swirls the atomized oil around the wire rope 62 . [0030] A portion of the wire rope that is used by cranes with multi-sheaved block assemblies never moves in relation to the sheaves or the rest of the structure. This section comprises the wire rope that is located between the anchor point and the first sheave of the block assembly. This section of wire rope is indicated by numeral 76 in FIG. 1. FIG. 7 illustrates a crawler lubricating device 78 particularly suited to this section of wire rope. [0031] As seen in FIGS. 7 - 9 the crawler lubricating device 78 is generally comprised of a body formed from two halves 80 a,b , a plurality of wheels 82 either rotatably mounted or locked as skids in the body, and atomizing spray nozzles 84 . The two body halves 80 a,b are attached together by a hinge 86 to allow for quick installation over a wire rope 76 . Once the crawler is placed over the wire rope 76 , the body is locked over the wire rope with a locking pin 88 to prevent the crawler from falling during the lubrication phase. [0032] The wheels 82 are concave and sized to receive the wire rope 76 to be lubricated. The wheels 82 , as shaped, will roll or skid on the wire rope 76 regardless of orientation with respect to gravity. [0033] The atomizing spray nozzles 84 are similar to those described above in that both air and oil are used simultaneously to create a pressurized fog of lubricant fluid. The nozzles 84 are mounted and positioned on the body 80 a,b so as to direct the atomized oil toward the wire rope 76 as the crawler moves along the wire rope. An air line 90 and oil line 92 are mounted on the body 80 a,b and in fluid communication with the nozzles 84 . The air and oil lines are in communication with an air supply and oil supply not shown. An air pressure regulator 94 and oil pressure regulator 96 are mounted on the body 80 a,b for adjusting the atomized spray as necessary. By mounting here, the fluid pressures are automatically compensated for changes in elevation, assuring constant fluid flow. [0034] A shroud 98 may be provided to capture excess oil and to swirl the atomized oil around the wire rope 76 . The shroud is formed from two portions attached to each body portion 80 a,b. [0035] The crawler 78 can be pulled with a flexible cable attached to an air tugger or it can be pulled manually by an operator located on the opposite end of the multi-sheaved block assembly. [0036] FIGS. 10 - 13 illustrate an improved clamshell lubricating device 100 that is generally comprised of a body formed from two halves 102 a,b and atomizing spray nozzles 104 . [0037] The two body halves 102 a,b are attached together by a hinge 106 to allow for quick installation over a wire rope 16 . The body halves are held in the closed position over the wire rope by bolts or screws 108 threaded through flanges on the body halves. The body 102 is open at each end to allow passage of the wire rope 16 therethrough. [0038] A plurality of atomizing spray nozzles 104 are mounted in the body 102 and positioned to direct the atomized oil toward the wire rope 16 . As described above, each nozzle 104 has a high pressure air line 110 , a low pressure air line 112 , and an oil line 114 . The high pressure air line is used to activate a piston not shown that cleans the orifice in the nozzle. The low pressure air and oil lines are used to supply air and oil pressure from sources not shown to spray atomized oil on the wire rope. [0039] One or more air jets 116 may be formed in the body 102 to blow debris off the wire rope 16 before it is lubricated. High pressure air is supplied through intake ports 117 , which are in communication with a source not shown. An O-ring may be provided at the inner portion of the body 102 around the intake ports 117 if necessary to provide the proper seal. An exhaust manifold 118 may be provided and connected to a vacuum source not shown for removing the debris loosened by the air jet 116 . The exhaust manifold 118 is connected to ports 120 provided on the body 102 . [0040] A seal 126 may be provided at each end of the body 102 and between the cleaning section and the lubrication section. The seals 126 are preferably formed from a compliant material such as rubber or a cylindrical brush. The seals serve to minimize the amount of debris that enters the body 102 and the amount of excess lubrication fluid that escapes the lubrication section. [0041] Chain or cable 122 is used to secure the clamshell device 100 to a stationary structure 124 . The lateral flexibility provided by the chain or cable is necessary if the device is mounted near the spool that stores and pays out the wire rope. [0042] Because many varying and differing embodiments maybe made within the scope of the inventive concept herein taught and because many modifications may be made in the embodiment herein detailed in accordance with the descriptive requirement of the law, it is to be understood that the details herein are to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
Lubrication devices for lubricating wire rope on a crane. Spray nozzles may be permanently mounted to the multi-sheaved wire block assemblies. A controller and oil supply located near the base of the crane are used to control and deliver oil to the spray nozzles. A telescopic spray unit is used to lubricate the vertical stationary wire rope. A crawler that rides on the wire rope is used to lubricate the stationary wire rope between the anchor point and the first sheave of the block assembly. Improved clamshell units are used to lubricate the wire rope between the drums storing wire rope and the first sheave.
5
This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 885,215, filed July 14, 1986 now U.S. Pat. No. 4,293,470. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field: This invention relates generally to slat or bar-type support systems for conveyor belts especially for use under a loading zone of the conveyor belt and especially for "V" or "U"-shaped conveyor belts. 2. Prior Art: Existing slat or bar-type support assemblies are constructed in place, often times being constructed prior to the installation of the conveyor belt With flat belts, the slat or bar support system may be readily installed after the belt is in place. However, with deep "V"-shaped belt conveyors the distance between the overhead loaded belt and the lower return belt is such that a preconstructed "V"-shaped slatted support assembly will not fit between the belts for installation. Thus, the practice has been to construct such "V"-shaped slatted support systems in place, or to remove the belt while the slatted support system is put in place. Also, once a preconstructed "V"-shaped slotted support assembly is in place, it is difficult to remove the bar-like or slat members since these usually are removed longitudinally inasmuch as a groove runs the length of a slat so that it may be slid over a "T"-shaped bolt to remove the slat. However, once the system is in place, idler rollers, which are usually adjacent to either end of the slotted support assembly, prevent the bars from being slid longitudinally. The bars have a wear surface, which are usually plastic, teflon or other hard smooth plastic coating over a rubber mid-section supported by a steel base. While the plastic surface is wear resistant, the bars need to be replaced periodically. When it is necessary to replace the bars, then the whole assembly must be again disassembled or the belt removed or the idler pulley which is on either end of the slatted support member must be removed. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A cradle assembly is disclosed herein having slatted or bar-type support members for supporting a conveyor belt in which two or more bars are constructed on a cross-member to form a cradle subassembly. At least one subassembly of at least two or more subassemblies present per cradle unit is readily detachable to permit a "V"-shaped cradle assembly to be installed to support a "V"-shaped belt after the belt has been installed. This cradle assembly is also useful in new installations prior to assembly and installation of the conveyor belt inasmuch as the cradle assembly, or at least a subassembly thereof, may be readily removed sot hat the bar-like support members may be replaced without removing the belt or removing idler pulleys. The cradle assembly of this invention comprises at least two transverse beam members and at least two cradle subassemblies or bar-like members attached to the transverse beam members, either in a replaceable manner or with a hinge for each near the mid-point of the transverse beam members. A cradle subasembly comprises at least two cross-members to which elongated bar-like members are attached perpendicularly. A typical cradle support system comprises two or more transverse main beam members with a central cradle subasembly containing two or more elongate bar-like support members attached perpendicularly to cross-member supports, wherein the cross-members are supported on or adjacent to, and substantially co-extensive with, a portion of the transverse beam members. This central subassembly has a generally flat overall upper surface such that it would support the bottom of a "U"-shaped or trough shaped conveyor belt. On either side of the central cradle subasembly is another cradle subassembly which may be hinged on either side of the central subassembly with removable or hinged struts, whereby the outboard subassemblies which may be inclined so that the outboard or wing cradle subassemblies then form a generally "U" or "V"-shaped trough in conjunction with the central cradle subassembly to support a troughed conveyor belt. The cradle support assemblies of the instant invention for supporting conveyor belts, especially troughed conveyor belts, are particularly advantageous inasmuch as these assemblies may be retrofit into existing conveyor belt installations, and are adapted to be readily removed from conveyor belt installations without disassembly of the conveyor belts These cradle assemblies are further adapted to fit into the small space existing between the load and return belts in most trough belt installations wherein very little vertical space exists between the top and bottom runs of the conveyor belt BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Further description of the invention may be facilitated by reference to the attached drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a "V" shaped cradle assembly with folding wing members having bar or slat-type longitudinal support members; FIG. 2 is an elevational, end view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 1 with both wing assemblies in an inclined position; FIG. 3 is an elevational end view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 1 with one wing assembly in a folded position; FIG. 4 is a detailed elevational end view of the attachment means for attaching a bar support member to a cross-member of a cradle; FIG. 5 is an elevational, side view of one end of a bar support illustrating a tapered bar surface; FIG. 6 is an elevational end view of a cable-supported cradle assembly for supporting a troughed conveyor belt; FIG. 7 is an elevational, end view of a cradle assembly with a transverse readily removable wing subassembly having a fixed, inclined surface; FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a bar support unit having a plurality of support bars attached to a channel member which is removably attached to a supporting cross-member of a cradle assembly of the type illustrated in FIG. 1; FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a single bar support member attached to a channel member adapted to interact in the same manner as the unit illustrated in FIG. 8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 are different views of the same cradle assembly for supporting troughed conveyor belts FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the cradle assembly 10, while FIG. 2 is an end on elevational view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is an end on view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 1 with one cradle subassembly, i e., a wing assembly, in a disengaged position. In FIG. 1, the cradle assembly 10 is illustrated with a partial view of a conveyor belt 11 and idler rollers 12, 13 and 14 which, when the cradle assembly is in position to support a troughed conveyor belt, are generally proximate to either end of the cradle assembly. Support posts 15 and 16 are members of the conveyor belt's main installation structure and are not part of the cradle assembly. These support posts 15 and 16 exist to support the idler rollers. These support posts, in conjunction with existing beams members 17 and 18 which tie these support posts together, may be used further to support the cradle assembly when it is placed in condition. In FIG. 1, a pair of angle iron members 19 and 20 are shown attached to the cross-beams 17 and 18 to provide support for the cradle assembly. The cradle assembly 10 utilizes three transverse cradle support beams 21, 22 and 23. These cradle support beams 21, 22 and 23 have a length which is generally approximately the width of the conveyor belt which the cradle assembly supports. These cradle support beams, of course, may be longer than the width of the belt, if desired. Attached to said transverse cradle support beams 21, 22 and 23 are three cradle subassemblies 24, 25 and 26. These cradle subassemblies are very similar in structure with outboard subassemblies 24 and 26, also referred to as wing assemblies, being substantially identical except that one may be the mirror image of the other, although they may be constructed identically. Attached to each cradle subassembly are slats or bar-like members 27, which cradle assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 are identical in character and dimensions. Outboard cradle subassemblies 24 and 26 are inclined with reference to the central subassembly 25 and are supported in such an inclined position by struts 28, 29 and 30 supporting cradle subassembly 26 while struts 31, 32 and 33 support cradle subassembly 24. These latter struts are not visible in FIG. 1, but strut 31 is illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. In FIG. 2, the cradle assembly is illustrated with the outboard cradle subassemblies 24 and 26 in an inclined position supported by struts 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33. These struts are hinged respectively to transverse cradle beam members 21 and to cross-members 34 by pin members such as pin members 37 and 38. These outboard cradle subassemblies 24 and 26 are locked into position by bars 39 and 40, which are held in place by stop or riser members 41 and 42 which have a vertical component rising above the upper surface of the beam member 21 so that the bars are held in place. As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, cradle subassembly 26 has a notch 43 in the end of cross-member or arm 34. Notch 43 is sized to interact with a spur or rod 44 which projects from and runs substantially perpendicular to cross-member 36. Thus, the interaction of notch 43 with elongated rod 44 forms an open hinge arrangement. However, when locking bar 39 is in place, then the assembly is a substantially rigid cradle assembly. However, as can be discerned from FIG. 3, when subassemblies 24 and 26 are both in a flat position, then the whole cradle assembly may be readily slid from under the belt, for example, slid to the left as shown by arrow "A" so that the whole cradle assembly may be installed or removed without disturbing other permanent structures supporting the belt or without disturbing the belt or idler rollers. The cradle assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 is a particularly useful construction inasmuch as the wing or outboard cradle subassemblies 24 and 26 not only fold to achieve a substantially flat, planar relationship with the central subassembly 24, but subassemblies 24 and 26 swing away from subassembly 25 so that the bar-like members 27 are substantially remote from the conveyor belt and conveyor belt superstructure to facilitate maintenance to or replacement of said bar-like members. An alternative structure to that illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 is one in which the wing or outboard subassemblies are hinged at or near their interior edges so that the subassemblies may fold flat but do not swing away from the central subassembly. This may be accomplished by hinging the cross-members 34 to post 44 and having strut 28 notched on one or both ends so that strut 28 may be readily detached from either arm 34 or main beam 21 when it is desired to lower subassembly 26. The manner of attaching impact bars 27 to cross-member 35 is illustrated in FIG. 4, which is an elevational end view. Bar 27 is composed of a top surface layer 45 of a very tough, smooth-surfaced, low friction material such as teflon, certain polyurethane compositions and other plastic materials. The core 46 of the bar is generally of a rubbery material. The rubber material is intended to be an impact absorber. The rubber core 46 is generally formed around an extruded metal member 47, such as an aluminum extrusion, which generally runs the length of the bar. The aluminum, or other metal extrusion 47, forms the primary structural support member of the impact bar 27. Also, the aluminum extrusion 47 has a "T"-shaped open channel which forms or acts as a receptacle for the head of a bolt 49 which may be slid into the channel, passed through a bolt hole 50 in cross-member 35 and then, with nut 51 tightened in place, holds the impact bar in position. Bolt 49 generally has a square head so that the bolt is held motionless while nut 51 is tightened or removed from the bolt. An elevational side view of impact bar 27 is illustrated in FIG. 5 showing one end of the bar having a tapered upper surface 52. This tapered upper surface is generally oriented such that the belt passes over the bar in a direction of right to left so that any seams or joints etc. in the belt do not catch on the end of the bar as the belt passes over the top of the bar. Another support system for trough conveyor belts is illustrated in FIG. 6 wherein the impact bars 27 are supported on a cable 53. The terminal ends of the cable are attached to posts 54 and 55 which are attached to the ends of beam member 56. Eye bolts 57 and 58 are positioned to interact with the cable to form the cable bar assembly into a generally trough-like shape. In FIG. 7 another cradle assembly is illustrated for use with troughed belt conveyors whereby the cradle assembly may be retrofit into an existing conveyor belt installation. A transverse beam 59 forms one support member for the system. A subassembly 60 and another subassembly 61 are made to form wing members to support the conveyor belt. Cradle subassembly 60 is formed of rigid support members 62 and 63 with a cross-member 64 supporting bars 27 Member 63 is designed to be replaceably attached to transverse beam 59 such that the whole subassembly 60 may be slid in and out of position whenever bars need to be replaced. Thus, by having subassembly 60 removable from beam 59, then the whole remaining cradle assembly, which includes subassembly 61 and the bar 59, may be slid or removed to the right so that they may be removed from an existing trough belt conveyor without disturbing any of the super structure or the belt. FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate additional sub-units for use in a cradle assembly to support a troughed conveyor belt or to support any other configuration of the belt. In FIG. 8, a channel member 65 has attached to it two or more bar-like members 27. The bar members may be attached to the channel members so that there is no substantial protrusion which exists down into the open area between vertical walls of the channel member. The channel member is adapted to fit over cross-member 35. In this embodiment, a plurality of impact bars may be attached to a channel member. When it is time to replace the impact bars on a subassembly, the channel member may be attached by bolts, pins or other means to the cross-member so that the whole unit (channel member and bars) may be removed from the cross-member. By having a plurality of impact bars attached to a channel member, such as channel member 65, then the channel and bars may be slid outwardly, see FIG. 3, i.e. transversely to the belt, so that each bar need not be removed completely longitudinally from the subassembly. In this fashion, even the bars attached to central cross-member 36 (FIG. 3) could be moved laterally or transversely to the belt without removing any further portion of the cradle or assembly. FIG. 9 illustrates a sub-unit similar to FIG. 8 except that each impact bar 27 is fitted with an individual channel member 66 so that each individual bar may be replaced, but again replaced by sliding the bar transversely to the direction of travel of the conveyor belt.
A cradle assembly having longitudinal slats for supporting a conveyor belt, especially a troughed conveyor belt, in which the cradle may be folded or readily partially disassembled for easy original installation as for retrofitting into an existing conveyor belt system is disclosed.
1
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 of German Patent Application 10 2008 064 458.7 filed Dec. 19, 2008, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The invention relates to a locking device for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, with a locking mechanism for the mechanical locking and unlocking of a movable catch of the locking mechanism with a counter-element, and with an actuator unit for the actuation of the catch by means of a drive, and with a housing in which the locking mechanism is arranged and mounted. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] In particular locking and unlocking components for rear seat installations often have a manually actuatable locking and unlocking mechanism, by which a locking of a rear seat backrest of the rear seat installation with a vehicle structure can be produced and released. To increase the comfort, such rear seat installations are being provided increasingly more often with an electrically driven actuator, by which the locking mechanism can also be actuated by motor. Here, generally already existing, purely mechanical locking components are additionally provided with an electric actuation. In previously known solutions an electrically driven actuator is mounted here together with the locking mechanism on an adapter plate. By means of transmission elements, such as angle, lever, linkage and suchlike, which are also fastened on the adapter plate, a coupling takes place between the actuator and the locking mechanism for the transmission of the drive movement of the actuator to the locking mechanism. [0004] With such a solution, it is possible to supplement already existing locking mechanisms with an electric actuation and hereby to construct different variants with the same mechanical locking mechanism with as little technical effort as possible. Solutions which are supplemented in such a way have the disadvantage, however, that they are relatively large and are not infrequently almost twice as large as the actual locking mechanism. The installation space and weight of such locking devices can therefore not be satisfactory. In particular owing to the large installation space, the actually intended simple achievement by this solution of different variants and their integration into different seat installations can therefore scarcely be achieved. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0005] The invention is therefore based on the problem of improving a generic locking device with a locking mechanism for the mechanical locking of a movable catch of the locking mechanism with a counter-element, and with an actuator unit for the actuation of the locking mechanism by means of a drive, and with a housing in which the locking mechanism is arranged and mounted, with regard to improving the required installation space and the possibility of the construction structurally different variants of the locking device. [0006] This problem is solved according to the invention in a locking device of the type mentioned in the introduction in that the actuator unit together with the locking mechanism is arranged in a shared housing of the locking device. According to the invention, provision is therefore made that the locking mechanism and the actuator unit, provided with a drive, are arranged closer to each other through the arrangement in a shared housing, the locking device therefore takes up a smaller space, has a lower weight and in addition is better protected from damage than previously. In addition, the use of a shared housing makes it possible for both the operating element and also the actuator unit to construct different variants of the locking device with less structural effort than hitherto and to integrate these into seat installations. The solution according to the invention makes it possible, in addition, in the integration of a motor-drivable locking device into a vehicle, to use the same interfaces as were also provided hitherto for locking devices which were to be actuated purely manually. In this context, an interface can be understood to mean for example the fastening points which are already provided on the seat or on a vehicle structure for the fastening of the locking device. Likewise, this can be understood to mean the three-dimensional dimensions of the installation space which is present for the locking device in the vehicle or respectively in the seat installation or required panels or pads. The aspect of the elimination of the requirement for new interfaces has particular importance in automobile construction, because individual components of seat installations often originate from different suppliers. The possibility for the formation of different variants of seat installations without a need for a comprehensive adaptation of the seat installation to the different seat installation variants therefore keeps the logistical and technical effort for different seat installation variants particularly low. Therefore, the invention makes preferred embodiments possible, in which no alterations have to be made to already existing seat installations or respectively vehicles, in order to also make possible an automated unlocking in seats which were hitherto to be unlocked purely manually. [0007] A further preferred advantageous further development of the solution according to the invention can make provision that the actuator unit and the locking mechanism are also arranged together with a manually actuatable operating element in a shared housing. Hereby, also, a particularly compact locking device can be achieved which is able to be integrated simply into existing seat installations. In addition to the advantage of existing interfaces being able to be used, such a solution also makes possible both a manual unlocking and also an automated unlocking. [0008] In addition, particular advantages can be achieved when the locking device has at least one partial housing in which at least one component of the locking device is arranged. The at least one partial housing can be constructed for example as operating housing and can receive the complete actuator unit together with the operating unit. The partial housing, together with other housing parts, produces a total housing of the locking device and can be assembled to this. [0009] In a further preferred embodiment, the locking mechanism can be arranged in its own partial housing. This partial housing can also be supplemented by the addition of at least one further housing part to the total housing of the locking device, in which the latter is arranged and held. [0010] The use of partial housings can bring with it the advantage that the respective functional unit, i.e. in particular the actuator unit together with the manual operating element or the locking mechanism can be subjected to its own functional check before the final mounting of the entire locking device takes place. Thus, faulty functioning of components and functional units can be promptly detected and the final mounting of faulty functional units in locking devices can be prevented. A final mounting of the locking device in such embodiments according to the invention can expediently only take place after successful functional checking of one or more functional units. In addition, the use of partial housings can also have the advantage that locking devices according to the invention can be formed in a relatively simple manner with different combinations of various functional units, and nevertheless all the different locking devices resulting therefrom, in contrast with the prior art, are substantially arranged entirely in one housing. This advantage can be of particular importance especially when the locking device is to be constructed from functional units which originate from different companies, as is usual in the automobile industry owing to the highly distinct distribution of labour. Thus, for example, the actuator unit can originate from a different company than the locking mechanism. Through the use of partial housings for functional components, interfaces can be defined in a simple manner as standards, to which the functional units are joined together and operatively connected with each other. [0011] The problem is additionally solved by a system of different locking devices in which for each locking device, in relation to other locking devices of the system, both structurally identical and also different components are provided. It is particularly advantageous here if particular components are used in identical form in as many different locking devices as possible, because hereby, despite a large number of variants, the number of different components can be kept as low as possible. Here, in particular, a specific drive such as a direct current motor can be provided as standard drive for several locking devices. An adaptation to different requirements for use can take place by differently configured gears, which reduce or transmit the drive movement and transfer it to the locking mechanism. Likewise, for several locking devices which are structurally different from each other, respectively the same or at least a substantially identical housings can be provided. This also makes possible a rapid and favourably priced adaptation of locking devices to different requirements and the integration of locking devices in seat installations. [0012] The problem is solved in addition by a method for the production of a locking device for a vehicle seat. The method comprises the steps of providing a locking mechanism and an actuator unit to drive the locking mechanism, bringing the locking mechanism and the actuator unit into operative connection with each other and arranging both a manually operable operating element and also the actuator unit in a shared housing. [0013] Further preferred developments of the invention will be seen from the claims, the description and the drawings. The invention is explained in further detail with the aid of example embodiments illustrated purely diagrammatically in the figures. The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its uses, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0014] In the drawings: [0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective illustration showing a locking device according to the invention; [0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective partial illustration showing a locking mechanism of the locking device of FIG. 1 ; [0017] FIG. 3 is an exploded illustration showing part of the operating housing of the locking device with an actuator unit and an operating handle of FIG. 1 ; [0018] FIG. 4 is a top view showing the elements of FIG. 3 ; [0019] FIG. 5 is a perspective illustration showing the operating handle and a driven gear of FIG. 3 after a motor-driven unlocking; [0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective illustration showing the operating handle and a driven gear of FIG. 3 after a resetting of the driven gear, which has taken place automatically. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0021] Referring to the drawings in particular, in FIGS. 1 and 2 , an example embodiment is shown for a locking device 1 according to the invention, as can be integrated for example in a swivellably articulated backrest for a rear seat installation. With such a locking device, an upright position of the backrest can be arrested or respectively secured by cooperation of the locking device with a counter-element B. By means of an actuation of the locking device 1 , this arresting is to be releasable, for example in order to fold down the rear seat backrest in the direction of a seating surface of the rear seat installation. The locking device 1 can be integrated here into the rear seat backrest, and the counter-element B ( FIG. 2 ), for example a bolt, can be arranged so as to be fixed to the vehicle or respectively fixedly on the vehicle structure. Basically, however, it is also possible to provide the counter-element on the rear seat backrest and to provide the locking device on the vehicle structure. [0022] The locking device 1 is provided with a multiple-part housing 2 . In the latter, a locking mechanism 3 (cf. FIG. 2 ) known per se is arranged, and an actuator unit 4 ( FIG. 1 ) for an electrically produced drive movement of the locking mechanism for its unlocking, and mounted on the housing 2 . In addition to the automated drive movement, the locking mechanism 3 can also be actuated manually with the aid of a swivellably articulated operating handle 5 , in order to thereby cancel an arresting between the locking mechanism 3 and the counter-element B. Embodiments are also possible, in which no operating handle is provided and the unlocking always take place with the actuator unit 4 . [0023] The housing can be composed of several partial housings 7 , 8 , wherein preferably each partial housing 7 , 8 receives a functional unit. The partial housings 7 , 8 can be connected with each other, for example by clip connections, screw connection or other fastening means. In the example embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 is arranged in a first partial housing 7 , between its two housing shells 7 a , 7 b . On the housing shells 7 a , 7 b a mounting 9 is formed, which serves to receive the counter-element B. The locking mechanism can be constructed in a manner known per se with regard to its mechanical components, their articulation and interactions with each other. Principles of such locking mechanisms are disclosed for example in DE 10 2004 056 086 B3, DE 103 04 574 B4 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,552) and DE 103 05 177 A1 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 7,188,906), the respective disclosure content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Therefore, structure of the locking mechanism is only described in detail in a rudimentary manner below. [0024] As illustrated in FIG. 2 , a catch 11 of the locking mechanism is swivellably mounted on a first bearing pin 13 , which in turn is securely mounted on and between the two housing shells 7 a , 7 b and hence on the housing 2 . The catch 11 could, however, also be movably mounted in a different manner. For cooperation with the counter-element B, the catch 11 has a groove-shaped hook jaw 15 , which in a locked state of the locking device 1 crosses the mounting 9 at least approximately perpendicularly and surrounds the counter-element B from three sides, whilst in an open state it opens obliquely towards the mounting 9 . A second bearing pin 23 is arranged parallel to the first bearing pin 13 and is mounted in the same manner on the housing 2 . On the second bearing pin 23 , a tensioning eccentric 25 is swivellably mounted as securing element, which is pre-stressed towards the catch 11 by a spring acting between housing 2 and tensioning eccentric 25 , which is not illustrated in further detail. In the locked state, the tensioning eccentric 25 as a first securing element exerts a closing moment on the catch 11 by means of a tensioning surface 29 which is curved eccentrically to the second bearing pin 23 . [0025] A catch piece 31 is mounted as a second securing element alongside the tensioning eccentric 25 and likewise swivellably on the second bearing pin 23 . The catch piece 31 has a catch surface, which is situated in the vicinity of the tensioning surface 29 , but in the locked state is spaced apart from the catch. In the case of a crash, when the catch 11 possibly undergoes an opening moment and presses the tensioning eccentric 25 away, the catch surface arrives in abutment against the catch 11 , without the catch 11 being able to exert a moment onto the catch piece 31 . The catch piece 31 therefore serves to support the catch 11 and to prevent the opening thereof. In addition, the catch piece 31 in this position closes the hook jaw 15 , which is open on one side, with a closure extension 26 . Both securing elements therefore secure the locked state. [0026] An unlocking lever 34 for unlocking the locking device 1 projects from the catch piece 31 as a formed-on arm. By moving this unlocking lever 34 , for example by means of a Bowden cable, from the locked state downwards, the catch piece 31 and hence the catch surface swivels away from the catch 21 . By means of a carrier, the catch piece 31 , if applicable after a short idle stroke, entrains the tensioning eccentric 25 and mounts the catch 11 by means of a tension spring which is not illustrated, so that the catch releases the counter-element B. By suitable geometric conditions, the catch piece 31 and/or the tensioning eccentric 25 in the positions which they have assumed after the movements relative to the catch 11 , exert an opening moment on the catch 11 or hold the latter open otherwise. In this position, through a swivelling movement of the rear seat backrest, the counter-element B can now be guided out from the hook jaw 15 by the relative movement of the locking device 1 in relation to the counter element B, and hence the locking can be completely cancelled. [0027] A renewed locking of the locking device 1 can take place by the dropping in of the counter-element B, which swivels the catch 11 back. The tensioning eccentric 25 and the catch piece 31 assume their previously described initial positions of the locked state. The spring, previously acting on the catch piece, loses its contact to the catch piece 31 . [0028] In the second partial housing 8 , as can be seen in FIG. 1 and in parts in FIGS. 3-6 , the actuator unit 4 is arranged. The latter has an electric direct current motor 17 , the drive movement of which is transmitted to a gear 18 . The motor 17 can be actuated by an actuating element which is not illustrated in further detail, for example a push-button, switch or a knob in the region of a driver's seat. The actuation element can also be housed as a push-button inside the vehicle (instrument panel, boot or respectively in the immediate vicinity of the locking device). It can also be situated directly beneath the components or respectively can be actuated via the operating handle 5 . In the latter case, a direct coupling between the operating handle 5 and the locking mechanism 3 does not have to compulsorily exist. [0029] The motor drive movement, reduced owing to the multi-stage spur gear 18 , is then transmitted, in the manner described in further detail below, likewise to a rotary shaft 19 ( FIG. 1 ), like the manual actuation movement via the operating handle 5 in an unlocking of the locking device 1 in relation to the counter element B which is carried out manually. With a lever 20 arranged on the rotary shaft and with a transmission element 21 situated thereon at a distance from the rotation axis 19 a of the rotary shaft 19 , said transmission element 21 also being articulated on the unlocking lever 34 ( FIG. 2 ), the movement of the rotary shaft 19 can then be transferred to the unlocking lever 34 . [0030] As can be seen in FIGS. 3-6 , the operating handle 5 is mounted on one of its sides in a bearing site 22 b of a driven gear 22 and is freely rotatable with respect to the latter. The operating handle 5 is mounted on its other side on the housing in the region of the lever 20 in a manner not illustrated in further detail. A rotation axis 19 a of the operating handle 5 runs here coaxially to a rotation axis of the driven gear 22 . In the region of its side pointing towards the gear 18 , the operating handle has a carrier 5 a , which cooperates with the driven gear 22 arranged coaxially to the rotation shaft 19 . The driven gear 22 is driven by the motor and the gear 18 . A stop 22 a is formed on the driven gear 22 , which cooperates with the carrier 5 a such that with a motor-driven rotary movement of the driven gear 22 , the operating handle is entrained on this rotary movement by abutment of the stop 22 a against the carrier 5 a . With a motor-driven opening movement of the locking mechanism, the operating handle 5 is therefore passively entrained. The rotary drive movement, which is passed on from the electric motor 17 via the gear 18 to the drive shaft 19 , is therefore passed on with inclusion of the operating handle 5 to the transmission element 21 , which hereby carries out a rotary movement about the rotation axis 19 a. [0031] A manually actuated unlocking takes place by a manual actuation of the operating handle 5 . Hereby, also, the rotation shaft 19 is set in rotation and the locking mechanism is opened. In contrast to the motor activation, however, the driven gear 22 and the gear 18 and the motor shaft do not also rotate here. The operating handle 5 and the actuator unit 4 therefore act on the same output for unlocking the locking mechanism, in which the catch piece 31 is set in rotation, whereby it frees the catch 11 and hereby releases the locking. [0032] With a motor-driven unlocking, the driven gear 22 is situated, after the unlocking, in the swivelled position shown in FIG. 5 , in which the driven gear 22 has entrained the operating handle 5 into its unlocking position. As can be seen in FIG. 4 , a helical spring 35 is arranged as a resetting element on the motor shaft, projecting from the motor, which is tensioned on the drive movement of the motor for unlocking Instead of a helical spring 35 , other spring-elastic elements could also be provided. Likewise, the resetting element could be arranged at a different site between the motor 17 and the driven gear 22 . As soon as the motor 17 is stopped after the unlocking, the spring 35 overrides the motor holding torque and thereby now turns the motor shaft back in the reverse direction in relation to the direction of rotation of the unlocking movement. Here also, the gear 18 or respectively is gear wheels is turned back in the respectively reverse direction. Hereby, the driven gear 22 is now also turned back into its original position. Its final position is pre-defined by a stop on the housing side. This situation is illustrated in FIG. 6 . In the following locking of the locking mechanism 3 , the operating handle 5 is turned back into its initial position by a reaction of the locking mechanism 3 onto the operating handle and contrary to its direction of rotation in the unlocking movement. [0033] In connection with the actuator unit, different types of gears 18 can be provided. In the illustrated example embodiment, this is a five-stage spur gear, which acts on the driven gear 22 . In addition, for example, a combination of planetary, spur and spindle gears or a combination of planetary and spur gears or else a pure spur gear can be provided. Basically, further types of gear are also possible for the motor/gear unit of the actuator unit 4 , which is preferably integrated without a separate housing into the partial housing 8 which is constructed as operating housing. [0034] On mounting of the locking device, the two functional units of locking mechanism 3 and actuator unit 4 can be initially mounted entirely independently of each other into their respective partial housings 7 , 8 . Subsequently, a function test can be carried out at least for one functional unit. In so far as this runs positively, the final mounting of the locking device can take place, in which the two partial housings are connected with each other at their mounting interfaces, and the functional units are operatively connected with each other. For this, the partial housings 7 , 8 can be screwed, welded or connected with each other rigidly by another suitable joining technique. [0035] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail to illustrate the application of the principles of the invention, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles.
A locking device for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, is provided with a locking mechanism for the mechanical locking of a movable catch of the locking mechanism with a counter-element, and with an actuator unit for the actuation of the catch via a drive. A hosing is provided in which the locking mechanism is arranged and mounted, with regard to the required installation space. The locking device provides the possibility of the formation of structurally different variants of the locking device. The actuator unit ( 4 ) is arranged in the housing as a shared housing ( 2 ) together with the locking mechanism ( 3 ).
1
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to buried heterostructure semiconductor lasers in which a radiative recombination active layer is buried in semiconductor materials which are larger in bandgap but smaller in refractive index than the active layer. More particularly, the present invention is concerned with an improved semiconductor laser having a desirable efficiency, CW (continuous wave) operating temperature and output characteristic. Buried heterostructure semiconductor laser diodes (BH-LD) are particularly attractive as light sources for long-distance, largecapacity optical fiber communication systems due to their low lasing threshold current, stable fundamental lateral mode operation and their CW operability at high temperature. The inventors of the present application achieved an BH-LD excellent in temperature characteristics and reproducibility, in which a current blocking layer is formed on both sides of a mesa stripe which includes a radiative recombination active layer, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. 55-48665/1980, laid open on Nov. 13, 1981 as Japanese Patent Laid Open Publication No. 56-146288 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 4,425,650). A BH-LD using an InP substrate and a InGaAsP system material accomplished a lasing threshold current of 20 mA, a differential quantum efficiency of 60% and a maximum CW operating temperature on the order of 100° C. However, this type of BH-LD is not satisfactory with regard to the reproducibility of its characteristics. Taking the injection current to light output characteristic, for example, experiments have shown that the BH-LD has a sharp tendency to output saturate as the light output power per facet approaches 15-20 mW and becomes hardly operable for light output power equal to or larger than 30 mW per facet. It was found that the saturation of light output power results from a deficiency in the blocking layer structure. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a BH-LD in which blocking layers effectively function to enhance the temperature and output characteristics of the BH-LD to an unprecedented degree while also enhancing the reproducibility and yield of manufacture. A semiconductor laser having a buried double heterostructure embodying the present invention includes a semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type. A multi-layer double heterostructure includes successively at least a first cladding semiconductor layer of the first conductivity type, an active semiconductor layer, and a second cladding semiconductor layer of a second conductivity type. The active semiconductor layer has a narrower bandgap than those of the first and second cladding semiconductor layers. The multi-layer double heterostructure has a stripe geometry with channels formed along both sides of the stripe and extending down to the first cladding layer. A current blocking layer is formed on the multi-layer double heterostructure except for the top surface of the stripe geometry, in order to block a current flow therethrough. A pair of electrodes supply a voltage to forward bias the semiconductor laser. A p-n-p-n thyristor structure is generally analyzed using a model connection of a p-n-p transistor and an n-p-n transistor. Concerning the characteristics of a thyristor itself, it is preferable that the thyristor turn-on voltage undergo a substantial change in response to a change in gate current. This conflicts with the requirement that the turn-on voltage of a blacking layering in a semiconductor laser change little in response to a change in gate current. Stated another way, a thyristor with poor performance is rather suitable for a blocking layer structure. Such a thyristor is achievable by reducing the current gain of one or both of the p-n-p and n-p-n transistors. It may roughly be said that the current gain of a transistor can be reduced by reducing the current carried by the minority carriers at the base relative to the total emitter current. In a p-n-p-n thyristor structure having an n-InP buffer layer, p-InP blocking layer, n-InP blocking layer and p-InP blocking layer, for example, introducing an InGaAsP layer of a small bandgap in an n-p-n transistor to make its structure P-N-P-p-N type (The combination of capital and small letters are used hereunder to designate a layer of a smaller bandgap to be introduced in a thyristor structure.) significantly reduces the current gain and thereby prevents the thyristor turn-on voltage from being affected by the gate current. In other words, applying the P-N-P-p-N thyristor structure to the blocking layers remarkably suppresses a leakage current which results from the thyristor breakdown of the BH-LD. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: FIG. 1 is a section of a prior art semiconductor laser described in Japanese Patent Laid Open Publication No. 56-146288 (U.S. Pat. No. 4,425,650) and taken in a plane normal to the optical axis thereof, current flow directions being indicated by arrows; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a BH-LD according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a fragmentary section of the BH-LD of FIG. 2 taken in a plane normal to its optical axis and showing a mesa stripe and its neighborhood, current flow directions being also indicated by arrows; FIGS. 4A-4C and 5A-5C are sections representing different steps for manufacturing BH-LD's in accordance with second and third embodiments of the present invention, respectively; and FIGS. 6 and 7 are sections showing fourth and fifth embodiments of the present invention, respectively. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In FIG. 1 of the drawings, which represents prior art, a current flows into a mesa stripe 7 through a window formed in an n-InP current blocking layer 9. While a majority of the current injects itself into a radiative recombination active layer 3m as an effective current 101 for the BH-LD, the remainder is allowed to flow into a p-InP current blocking layer 8 through a p-InP cladding layer 4m and farther into an n-InP buffer layer 2. This current, though fractional, serves as a gate current 102 for the p-n-p-n thyristor structure at opposite sides of the mesa stripe, promoting turn-on of the p-n-p-n current blocking layer structure. Some elements with such a BH-LD structure clearly showed a blocking layer turn-on effect in which the light output power sharply decreased in response to a rise of an injection current beyond a certain level. Apart from the decrease in light output power, the proportion of the leakage current progressively increased relative to the total injection current as would result from the so-called "soft breakdown". This enhanced the tendency to saturation in the current to light output characteristic thereby disabling light output power on the order of 20-30 mW from being achieved. In addition to the fractional leakage current flowing from the p-InP cladding layer 4 m into the n-InP buffer layer 2 via the blocking layer 8, a substantial amount of leakage current 103 originated from the turn-on of the p-n-p-n blocking layer which was in turn caused by the fractional leakage current. Thus, the p-n-p-n thyristor structure did not effectively work as a blocking region. Referring to FIG. 2, a BH-LD according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown in perspective. First, a process for manufacturing the illustrated BH-LD will be described. A double heterostructure (DH) is made by successively growing, on a (100) oriented n-InP substrate 1, an n-InP buffer layer 2 (5 microns thick, Sn-doped, 1×10 18 cm -3 ), a non-doped In 0 .72 Ga 0 .28 As 0 .61 P 0 .39 active layer 3 (0.1 micron thick) and a p-InP cladding layer 4 (1 micron thick, Zn-doped, 1×10 18 cm -3 ). The active layer 3 corresponds to an emitting wavelength of 1.3 microns. The DH wafer is treated with a usual photoresist and chemical etching process to be formed with two parallel channels 5 and 6 in the <011> direction and a mesa stripe 7 defined between the channels 5 and 6. The mesa stripe 7 may be 1.5 microns wide in the active layer portion and the channels 5 and 6 may both be about 10 microns wide and about 3 microns deep. In practice, etching was carried out at 3° C. for 2 minutes and 30 seconds using a bromine (Br)-methanol solution which had a volumetric ratio of 0.2%. Epitoxial growth is effected on the semiconductor wafer which has been formed with the mesa stripe 7 inclusive of the active layer 3m and the parallel channels 5 and 6. This gives a p-InP blocking layer 8 and an n-InP blocking layer 9 successively on the semiconductor wafer except for the top surface of the mesa stripe 7, a p-InP embedding layer 10 and a p-In 0 .85 Ga 0 .15 As 0 .33 P 0 .67 electrode layer 11 are subsequently formed throughout the entire surface. The electrode layer 11 has a bandgap corresponding to an emitting wavelength of 1.1 microns. The p- and n-InP blocking layers 8 and 9 are both produced by liquid phase epitaxial (LPE) growth employing a two phase solution in which a single InP crystal floats in an In growth melt. Such selective epitaxial growth is possible because the growth proceeds so fast at the sides of the mesa that phosphorus (P), a minor atom contained in the melt, centers on the side portion with its concentration on the top of the mesa stripe 7 decreased. In accordance with the present invention, such characteristics of crystal growth discovered by the inventors is effectively made use of to realize a unique BH structure. (Reference is made to Japanese Patent Laid Open Publication No. 56- 146288/1981 corresponding to U.S. Ser. No. Pat. No. 4,425,650) After the embedding growth, the wafer is processed into the desired BH-LD by forming electrodes, preparing a pair of reflective end surfaces functioning as a resonator by the cleavage of (011) surfaces and pelletizing it. The flow of currents through the structure described above will be examined with reference to FIG. 3. The major part of a current flow into the p-InP cladding layer 4m is injected into the active layer 3 m. A leakage current 104 is steered clear of the active layer 3m and flows through the path constituted by the p-InP cladding layer 4m, p-InP blocking layer 8, p-InP cladding layer 4, active layer 3 and n-InP buffer layer 2. As previously stated, the leakage current 104 acts as a gate current for the P-N-P-p-N thyristor structure (though the active layer 3 is non-doped in nature, it is considered to have turned to p-type during the LPE growth of p-InP due to auto-diffusion of Zn with which the InP is doped) formed at opposite sides of the channels 5 and 6. Nevertheless, the P-N-P-p-N structure is barely affected by the gate current and scarcely caused to turn on. Meanwhile, though the area of the channels 5 and 6 involves a p-n-p-n-InP blocking layer structure, the leakage current 104 does not flow into the n-InP buffer layer 2 but only passes through the p-InP blocking layer 8 and, accordingly, it cannot act as a gate current for the p-n-p-n thyristor. It will thus be seen that in the BH-LD according to the above embodiment, a current is allowed to flow concentratively to the mesa stripe 7, that is, there is no leakage current which would otherwise flow through the entire surface due to the turn-on of the current blocking layer structure. With the BH-LD structure stated above, we have accomplished an element which has a CW threshold current of 15-20 mA at room temperature, a differential quantum efficiency of 60-70%, an I-L characteristic with linearity up to the light output power of 40 mW per facet, and a maximum output power higher than 100 mW. The reproducibility of such characteristics was also found to be excellent. Because the BH-LD according to the embodiment had the mesa stripe 7 defined by the two parallel channels 5 and 6, semiconductor layers of a small-bandgap active layer composition remained outside the channels and they made it possible to prevent the thyristor structure from turning on, as previously mentioned. In the embedding crystal growth, the crystal growth was always started from inside the channels so that the resulting reproducibility was extremely high with a minimum of scattering among wafers. Moreover, because the crystal growth was effected such that the entire wafer surface with the two channels was covered after the deposition of the p-n blocking layer, the resulting crystal surface was flat enough to eliminate excessive stresses during die bonding or wire bonding of pellets. As a result there was a remarkable increase in the yield of manufacture. Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, there is schematically shown a series of steps for manufacturing a BH-LD in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. What is unique to this embodiment is that the mesa stripe 7 is formed at a level higher than the rest of the BH-LD. This structure attains an additional improvement in the reproducibility of crystal growth and the yield of manufacture. As shown in FIG. 4A, a multi-layer semiconductor wafer is prepared by successively growing, on a (100) oriented n-InP substrate 1, an n-InP buffer layer 2, a non-doped In 0 .72 Ga 0 .28 As 0 .61 P 0 .39 active layer 3 corresponding to an emitting wavelength of 1.3 microns, and a p-InP cladding layer 4. A 10 micron wide etching mask 21 is formed on the wafer along the <011> direction using a usual photoresist. The p-InP cladding layer 4 is deposited to a thickness of about 1-2 microns and then etched to a depth of about 0.5 micron except for the etching mask 21. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 4B, two parallel channels 5 and 6 are formed by a photolithographic procedure in that part of the wafer configuration where the mask 21 is located, thereby defining a mesa stripe 7. The mesa stripe 7 may be 1-2 microns wide and each channel may be 6-7 microns wide. In this situation, the p-InP cladding layer 4 in the mesa stripe portion is thicker than the p-InP layer left in the other portion by the amount which was not etched at first, i.e. about 0.5 micron. Then the wafer etched in two stages is subjected to embedding growth as indicated in FIG. 4C. A p-InP blocking layer 8 and an n-InP blocking layer 9 are successively grown on the wafer except for the top of the mesa stripe 7. This is followed by the deposition of a p-InP embedding layer 10 and a p-In 0 .72 Ga 0 .28 As 0 .61 P 0 .39 electrode layer 12 which corresponds to an emitting wavelength of 1.3 microns, each covering the entire surface of the wafer. Finally, a p-type ohmic electrode 13 and an n-type ohmic layer 14 are formed on the electrode layer 12 and substrate 1, respectively, so as to complete the desired In 1-x Ga x As 1-y P y BH-LD. The BH-LD shown in FIGS. 4A-4C is significant in that the level of the mesa stripe 7, higher than the other portions, permits the blocking layers 8 and 9 to grow smoothly even at the edges of the channels 5 and 6. Particularly, the height of the mesa stripe 7 makes it unlikely that the n-InP blocking layer 9 will cover the top of the mesa stripe 7, even when the layer 9 is grown to a somewhat larger thickness. This offers a wider range of tolerances for the growth of the blocking layers and, accordingly, remarkably improves the reproducibility of embedding growth. The BH-LD thus manufactured provides elements which show a threshold current of 10-20 mA and a differential quantum efficiency of about 50%, with the scattering minimized. Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, a BH-LD in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention comprises a semiconductor wafer which is made by successively depositing, on a (100) oriented n-InP substrate 1, an n-InP buffer layer 2, an In 0 .72 Ga 0 .28 As 0 .61 P 0 .39 active layer 3 and a p-InP cladding layer 4. The wafer is formed with two parallel channels 5 and 6 along the <011> direction and a mesa stripe 7 defined between the channels 5 and 6. This can be done with ease employing an ordinary photoresist and chemical etching process. Each of the channels 5 and 6 may be 10 microns wide and the mesa stripe 7, including the radiative recombination active layer, may be about 2 microns wide and 2 microns high. The resulting configuration is illustrated in FIG. 5A. Then, as seen in FIG. 5B, a photoresist mask 31 is deposited to cover the mesa stripe 7 whereafter the entire surface is etched. An etching depth of about 0.2 micron suffices in the flat portion and this treatment can be readily accomplished making use of, for example, a Br-methanol solution. Because the etching proceeds faster at the square edges of the channels 5 and 6 than at the rest, the edges become rounded as at 32 and 33 shown in FIG. 5B. After the removal of the photoresist mask 31, embedding growth is carried out as indicated in FIG. 5C. A p-InP blocking layer 8 and an n-InP blocking layer 9 are successively grown on the wafer except for the top of the mesa stripe 7. This is followed by successive growth of a p-InP embedding layer 10 and a p-In 0 .72 Ga 0 .28 As 0 .61 P 0 .39 electrode layer 12 corresponding to an emitting wavelength of 1.3 microns, thus completing the embedding growth. Experiments have shown that both the p- and n-InP blocking layers 8 and 9 grow smoothly along the opposite edges 32 and 33 of the channels 5 and 6 remote from the mesa stripe 7, because those edges are rounded by etching. Furthermore, the two blocking layers 8 and 9 are prevented from covering the top of the mesa stripe 7 so that the spread in characteristics attributable to the blocking layers is noticeably reduced and a marked increase in the yield of manufacture is realized. In FIG. 6, there is shown a fourth embodiment of the present invention which is manufactured by a procedure substantially common to the combined procedure of the second and third embodiments. In this embodiment, the embedding growth is carried out on a multi-layer semiconductor wafer which has a mesa stripe 7 with an active layer 3m and two parallel channels 5 and 6 at opposite sides of the mesa stripe 7. Before forming the parallel channels 5 and 6, the entire surface is etched to a depth of about 0.5-1 micron except for 0.5-1 micron around the mesa stripe 7. Then, the channels 5 and 6 are shaped by etching such that the mesa stripe 7 stands higher than the surrounding portions. The mesa stripe 7 may be about 2-3 microns wide and about 3 microns high while each of the etching channels 5 and 6 may be 10 microns wide. The mesa stripe 7 is higher than the surrounding area by 0.1-1 micron due to the initial etching. Finally, the entire surface is etched to a depth of about 0.2 micron in the flat portion by means of a Br-methanol solution. Embedding growth is effected on the resultant semiconductor wafer to attain the desired BH-LD. Thus, in the fourth embodiment described, the mesa stripe 7 is formed somewhat higher than the surrounding portions and the entire surface is etched, so that the side edges of the channels 5 and 6 are rounded. This promotes smooth growth of the p-and n-InP blocking layers 8 and 9 without any discontinuity at the side edges of the channels 5 and 6. Due to the unique level of the mesa stripe 7, the blocking layer 8 or 9 is prevented from covering the top of the mesa stripe 7. Such a BH-LD structure features a minimum of spread in characteristics and a far greater yield of manufacture over the foregoing embodiments. With the InGaAsP/InP BH-LD thus manufactured, elements were achieved having a threshold current of 20 mA at room temperature, a differential quantum efficiency of 60%, and a characteristic temperature of 70° K. at near room temperature. Furthermore, a spread in characteristics was not noticeable while the reproducibility of the wafers was excellent. In the third and fourth embodiments described above, in order to round opposite edges of the channels after forming the mesa stripe, which included the active layer, an additional photoresist mask has been formed to protect the mesa stripe or the mesa stripe has been shaped higher than the surrounding portions prior to etching the entire surface. This is for illustrative purpose only. Instead, the entire surface may be etched after forming a narrow mesa stripe and channels at opposite sides of the narrow mesa stripe. The narrow mesa stripe, though not higher than its surrounding portion, still keeps the blocking layers from growing thereon due to its narrowness. Any other methods may be employed insofar as they include a step of rounding the edges of the channels remote from the mesa stripe. Furthermore, a dry etching process may be employed in place of the wet chemical etchng shown and described. Referring to FIG. 7, a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown which follows the same procedure as the first to fourth embodiments up to the step of shaping the mesa stripe 7, but features modified embedding growth. In making the DH wafer, the carrier concentration in the p-InP cladding layer 4 is made as small as about 3×10 17 cm -3 for the purpose which will be described. In the LPE embedding growth, the degree of super-saturation is made as high as about 15° so that the p-InP blocking layer 8 (Zn-doped) is deposited on the entire surface to a substantially even thickness of 1 micron. In this instance, the carrier concentration is increased to 3×10 18 cm -3 . Thereafter, the n-InP blocking layer 9 (Te-doped, 5×10 18 cm -3 ) is grown on the blocking layer 8 except for the top of the mesa stripe 7 by means of a two phase solution whose degree of super saturation is low. This is followed by successive deposition of the p-InP embedding layer 10 (An-doped, 2×10 18 cm -3 , 2 microns thick in the flat portion) and a p-InGaAsP cap layer 11 (corresponding to an emitting wavelength of 1.1 microns, Zn-doped, 5×10 18 cm -3 ) to a thickness of about 0.5 micron in the flat portion, which renders the entire surface substantially flat. Finally, a p-type electrode 13 consisting of Au-Zn is formed on the cap layer 11 and an n-type electrode 14 consisting of Au-Sn is formed on the substrate 1. The product is then cleaved into elements. When a bias voltage is applied across the element with the p-side held positive and the n-side held negative, the P-N-P-p-N layer structure effectively confines the injection current in the active waveguide 3m. The element, therefore, starts lasing at an injection current as low as about 20 mA. Because the active layer is as thin as 0.1 micron, the electric field of light propagating through the resonator is confined only to a ratio of 15% in the active layer whose internal absorption loss is substantial. Though the electric field radiated from the active layer undergoes absorption loss due mainly to the free carriers in the p-InP cladding layer mesa portion 4m, the loss is negligible because the carrier concentration in the mesa portion 4m is not more than 3×10 17 cm -3 . Hence, a differential quantum efficiency as high as 70% is achievable in injection current to light output characteristic. Meanwhile, the low carrier concentration in the p-InP cladding layer 4 results in a decrease in the hereto barrier between the p-InGaAs active layer 3 and the p-InP cladding layer 4. Furthermore, the carriers that escape over the hetero barrier can be retained within the p-InP cladding layer mesa portion 4m by depositing on the mesa portion 4m the p-InP blocking layer 8 having a high carrier concentration. The temperature characteristic, however, remains good even though the carrier concentration in the p-InP cladding layer 4 may be lowered to enhance the differential quantum efficiency; the parameter To indicating the temperature-dependency of the lasing threshold current, which is generally regarded through experience to vary as expressed by exp (T/To), is about 75° K. and the maximum CW operating temperature is 130° C. Due to the high differential quantum efficiency, an injection current as low as 200 mA is enough to achieve light output power of 50 mW per facet and the maximum pulse light output per facet of 200 mW. Additionally, in the epitaxial growth, the p-InP blocking layer 5 is deposited at first on the entire surface using a solution having a high degree of supersaturation. This promotes good "wetting" in the epitaxial growth which in turn makes the sectional shape of growth within the wafer very uniform, thereby realizing a high yield of manufacture with a minimum of spread in characteristics. Though the BH-LD in each of the foregoing embodiments has made use of semiconductor materials having a wavelength range of 1 micron, such as In 1-x Ga x As y P 1-y and InP, any other semiconductor material may be used such as a Ga 1-x Al x As/GaAs system, In x Ga 1-x As 1-y P y /GaAs system, or InAlGaAs or InGaAsSb system in order to cover a wider wavelength range from the visible to the farinfrared. In all the five foregoing embodiments, none of the p-InP and n-InP blocking layers 8 and 9 is deposited on the mesa top. However, it is permissible to form in advance a p-type inversion layer based on diffusion or the like on the surfaces of the channels 5 and 6 and then deposit only the n-InP blocking layer except for the mesa top. Further, while in each embodiment the p-InP embedding layer 10 has been formed throughout the surface inclusive of the mesa top in order to make the element surface flat, such a structure is not limiting but may be replaced by another in which etching is effected to the reverse mesa configuration, the mesa top is covered with SiO 2 or the like, and the blocking layer only is grown by the second LPE.
A buried heterostructure semiconductor laser diode with improved efficiency, CW operating temperature and output characteristic is comprised of a semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type and includes successively at least a first cladding semiconductor layer of the first conductivity type, an active semiconductor layer, and a second cladding semiconductor layer of a second conductivity type. The active semiconductor layer has a narrower bandgap than those of the first and second cladding semiconductor layers. The multilayer double heterostructure has a stripe geometry with channels formed along both sides of the stripe and extending down to the first cladding layer. A current blocking layer is formed on the multilayer double heterostructure except for the top surface of the stripe geometry, in order to block a current flow therethrough.
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This application claims benefit of Provisional application Ser. No. 60/028,880, filed Oct. 17, 1996. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention generally relates to a calibration system for recalibrating electronic thermometers. More specifically, the present invention relates to recalibration system comprising a tympanic thermometer, a blackbody calibration unit and a computer for recalibrating the infrared temperature sensor within the tympanic thermometer. In particular, the present invention relates to a recalibration system for recalibrating tympanic thermometers using the ambient temperature sensed by the tympanic thermometer as a primary control parameter in the recalibration process. 2. Background Art The diagnosis and treatment of many body ailments depends upon an accurate reading of the internal or core temperature of a patient's body temperature reading, and in some instances, upon comparison to a previous body temperature. For many years, the most common way of taking a patient's temperature involved utilization of Mercury thermometers. However, such thermometers are susceptible to breaking and must be inserted and maintained in the rectum or mouth for several minutes, often causing discomfort to the patient. Because of the drawbacks of conventional Mercury thermometers, electronic thermometers were developed and are now in widespread use. Although electronic thermometers provide relatively more accurate temperature readings than Mercury thermometers, they nevertheless share may of the same drawbacks. For example, even though electronic thermometers provide faster readings, a half a minute must still pass before an accurate reading can be taken. Finally, electronic thermometers must still be inserted into the patient's mouth, rectum or axilla. Tympanic thermometers provide nearly instantaneous and accurate readings of core temperature without undue delay attendant with other thermometers. The tympanic thermometer is generally considered by the medical community to be superior to oral, rectal or axillary sites for taking a patient's temperature. This is because the tympanic membrane is more representative of the body's internal or core temperature and more responsive to changes in core temperature. Tympanic thermometers, those thermometers that sense the infrared emissions from the tympanic membrane, offer significant advantages over Mercury or conventional electronic thermometers. Recent efforts to provide a method and apparatus for measuring temperature of the tympanic membrane have produced several excellent infrared tympanic thermometers. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,293,877 to O'Hara et al. provides for a tympanic thermometer that measures internal body temperature utilizing the infrared emissions from the tympanic membrane of the ear, and is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Typically, tympanic thermometers require calibration at the factory during manufacturing in order achieve the quick and accurate temperature reading capability noted above. Calibration of the tympanic thermometer at the factory requires individual calibration of each thermometer unit so that the proper calibration parameters can be written to the EEPROM of each thermometer's microprocessor. These calibration parameters involve determining the proper values for variables representing the sensors within each thermometer. Once these calibration parameters are determined and written to the memory of each thermometer, calibration is complete and the unit is shipped for sale. However, responsivity of the infrared system and transmissivity of the optical system set during calibration can change over time, thereby bringing the tympanic thermometer out of calibration which results in inaccurate temperature readings being taken by the thermometer. Responsivity of the tympanic thermometer's infrared system involves changes in the response characteristics of the thermal radiation sensor of the thermometer over time. Similarly, transmissivity of the optical system deals with the transmission characteristics of the optical waveguide and other parts of the thermometer's optical system that may drift or change as a function of time or due to scratches and deformations that occur during use. During recalibration, the calibration parameters dealing with the thermometer's infrared and optical systems are adjusted. Recalibration of the tympanic thermometer usually requires recalibrating the variables related to the infrared and optical subsystems of the thermometer incorporated in the calibration equations written to the EEPROM during factory calibration. A prior art recalibration device usually comprises a unit housing one or more blackbodies that permit the user to recalibrate the thermometer at one or more set temperatures designated for each blackbody. In operation, the sensor portion of the thermometer is inserted into a cavity containing a blackbody set at a predetermined temperature. Readings are then taken from each sensor and a set of calibration parameters are calculated and written over the original parameters set in the EEPROM. Ambient temperature is another important calibration parameter that must be determined during the recalibration procedure because it provides an indication of temperature stability of the surrounding environment that the tympanic thermometer is experiencing prior to recalibration. Temperature stability permits accurate recalibration to take place as long as recalibration is within a specific range of ambient temperature conditions. For example, a tympanic thermometer experiencing an ambient temperature that is too high or otherwise outside the permissible range of ambient temperatures will adversely affect the recalibration process and result in an inaccurate calibration of the thermometer. To sense the ambient conditions being experienced by the tympanic thermometer, prior art recalibration devices have utilized an ambient sensor that resides directly on the recalibration device itself for sensing the surrounding ambient temperature prior to recalibration. Although this method provides an easy means of determining ambient temperature, several disadvantages remain. For example, a more accurate ambient temperature reading of the tympanic thermometer is best taken from the thermometer itself rather than from the recalibration device since temperature stability of the tympanic thermometer is a far more critical factor than the temperature stability of the room containing the recalibration device. Further, instances may occur where a tympanic thermometer to be recalibrated might have just been stored in a high temperature area, such as a the compartment of a vehicle exposed to the sun or in a room having different environmental conditions than the room where recalibration is occurring. In this instance, the ambient temperature of the tympanic thermometer will be much higher than the surrounding cooler temperature of the room sensed by the calibration device's ambient sensor, thereby providing an inaccurate ambient temperature reading to the recalibration device since the thermometer has not stabilized to its surroundings. However, if the recalibration system takes into account the present ambient temperature experienced by the tympanic thermometer itself prior to recalibration, then a more accurate and reliable determination of the thermometer's temperature stability can be determined before recalibration occurs. As of yet, nothing in the prior art has addressed the problem of developing an ambient sensor system that determines the temperature stability of the tympanic thermometer before recalibration of the thermometer occurs. Further, nothing in the prior art has addressed the problem of ensuring that recalibration takes place in an environment where ambient temperature is within a stable range of temperatures. Therefore, there exists a need in the medical art for an ambient sensor system that takes an ambient temperature reading from within the thermometer itself without use of separate ambient sensors outside the thermometer and also incorporates a fail-safe routine whereby recalibration does not occur unless the ambient temperature of the thermometer is within a predetermined range and the thermometer is in a state of thermal equilibrium. BRIEF SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION In brief summary, the present invention relates to an ambient sensor feature for a recalibration system that provides a fail safe method of recalibrating a tympanic thermometer or other radiation-sensing device in a temperature stable environment before recalibration occurs. The recalibration system of the present invention comprises a recalibration device that performs the recalibration procedure on a tympanic thermometer and a computer for initiating and managing the recalibration procedure. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a novel and accurate means of determining ambient temperature prior to recalibration of a tympanic thermometer. A further object of the present invention is to provide a method for determining temperature stability based on ambient temperature. Another paramount object of the present invention is to provide an ambient temperature reading taken directly from the tympanic thermometer being recalibrated. It is a principal object of the present invention to provide a means of ensuring that recalibration of a tympanic thermometer is performed in an environment that is within a specific ambient temperature range. These and other objects of the present invention are realized in a presently preferred embodiment thereof, described by way of example and not necessarily by way of limitation, which provides for an ambient sensor feature that takes an ambient temperature reading of a tympanic thermometer prior to recalibration and permits recalibration only when the ambient temperature conditions experienced by the thermometer is within a predetermined range. Additional objects, advantages and novel features of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following more detailed description and drawings in which like elements of the invention are similarly numbered throughout. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is perspective view of the recalibration system showing the recalibration device, tympanic thermometer and computer according to the present invention; FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of the constituent subsystems of the recalibration system showing in particular the ambient temperature recalibration subsystem according to the present invention; FIG. 3 is a graph showing the relationship between Head Thermistor A/D count and ambient temperature; FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing the steps used to determine whether the ambient temperature sensed by the tympanic thermometer is within a predetermined range of ambient temperatures in order to determine whether recalibration can occur according to the present invention; FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing a subroutine used to calculate ambient temperature according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIG. 1 illustrates the main apparatus components of the recalibration system 10 . The recalibration system 11 includes a recalibration device 14 that is connected to a computer 12 through a data link 26 . The data link according to the present invention can be serial, parallel, or custom data link suitable for transmission of data, commands or status between components. preferably, the data link is a tethered serial data link. The recalibration device 14 is also connected through another data link 26 to a tympanic thermometer 16 that is to be recalibrated. The computer 12 communicates with the tympanic thermometer 16 through these links 26 . Recalibration instructions are stored in the memory (not shown) of the computer 12 which also holds the instructions that comprise the ambient temperature recalibration subsystem according to the present invention. The recalibration device can be any apparatus used to calibrate radiation-sensing type thermometers, such as a tympanic thermometer. Preferably, the recalibration device comprises one or more heated blackbodies that are used to modify the calibration coefficients stored in the thermometer's memory during factory calibration, although any type of recalibration device suitable for recalibrating a thermometer as described above is felt to all within the scope of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, a simplified block diagram illustrating the various components of the recalibration system 10 showing the recalibration device 14 , the tympanic thermometer 16 and the computer 12 along with their constituent components and subsystems, and in particular the ambient temperature recalibration subsystem 11 according to the present invention. Computer 12 includes a CPU 34 , memory 30 , display 28 and the ambient temperature recalibration subsystem 11 according to the present invention. The CPU 34 contains the arithmetic and logic processing circuits of computer 12 , including the main control circuits needed to sequence the execution of instructions from the ambient temperature recalibration subsystem 11 . The memory 30 stores any information transmitted by the tympanic thermometer 16 to the computer 12 while the display 28 displays information and instructions to the user during the recalibration procedure. Tympanic thermometer 16 includes a microprocessor 32 and an ambient sensing system 18 that comprises a head thermistor 20 and tip thermistor 22 . The microprocessor 32 carries out the computer operations of the tympanic thermometer 16 comprising instruction fetch, execution, interrupt and management of addresses, data and control lines which are connected to microprocessor 32 . The thermistors 20 and 22 are conventional thermistors and are preferably model number SC35F103B manufactured by THERMOMETRICS of Edison, New Jersey, however any resistive thermal sensors suitable for sensing ambient temperature are felt to fall with the scope of the present invention. The head thermistor 20 is located in thermal proximity to a thermal radiation detector (not shown) inside the tympanic thermometer 16 and provides ambient temperature readings to the computer 12 . The thermal radiation detector can be any device that converts radiant energy to some other measurable form. This can be an electrical current or a change in some physical property of the detector. As a fail safe measure, the tip thermistor 22 located near the optical subsystem of the tympanic thermometer 16 also provides ambient temperature readings to the computer 16 . Finally, the tympanic thermometer 16 includes an EEPROM 24 that stores the calibration coefficients generated during factory calibration, identifying indicia of the particular tympanic thermometer 16 being calibrated and the Maximum/Minimum Head thermistor A/D counts for the head thermistor 20 . The A/D counts are the digitized voltage readings taken from an analog-to-digital converter of a thermistor in a resistive voltage divider. The maximum and minimum A/D counts from the head thermistor 20 are counts set during factory calibration that represent the maximum and minimum A/D counts registered by the thermistor 20 for corresponding maximum and minimum ambient temperatures of 60° F. and 100° F. respectively. These two pre-set temperature and parts represent the maximum and minimum range of ambient temperatures that the tympanic thermometer 16 is expected to operate in, although any end points suitable for a device that measures infrared radiation is felt to fall within the scope of the present invention. Further, these pre-set ambient temperatures form the end points for a linear approximation technique that the computer 12 employs to determine present ambient temperatures sensed by the head thermistor 20 in order for the computer 12 to convert the A/D counts registered by the thermistor 20 to real ambient temperatures. FIG. 3 shows the relationship between the head thermistor A/D counts and corresponding ambient temperatures using the linear approximation technique. As noted above, the ambient temperature end points are set at 60° F. and 100° F. and correspond to A/D counts for these particular ambient temperatures as determined by the manufacturer. These established end points then form a linear approximation line A that run through those end points. The linear approximation line A is a model that allows the computer 12 to determine the corresponding ambient temperature for any particular A/D count generated by the head thermistor 20 that is between the ambient temperatures of 60° F. and 100° F. However, the linear approximation technique employed by the computer 12 has to use a scaling factor in order to derive the real ambient temperature being sensed by the head thermistor 20 since the real conversion factor is unknown. The real ambient temperature values are shown on nominal thermistor curve B with the difference between curve B and the linear approximation line A for any one A/D count being the temperature error that requires scaling. The scaling factor employed by the computer 12 uses Lagrange polynomials. The functional expression of the Lagrange polynomial used is: F( x )=∝*( x−x 1)*( x−x 2) where X1=the resistance at one end point, and X2=the resistance of the other endpoint, and ∝ is a scaling factor used to make the function fit the desired nominal thermistor curve B. The scaling factor ∝ is determined experimentally by comparing the linear approximation line A to the nominal thermistor curve B provided by the thermistor manufacturer. The scaling factor ∝ is then added to the temperature calculated from the linear relationship derived from the two end points in order to correct temperature error due to the linear approximation technique employed by the computer 12 . The scaling factor ∝ minimizes the error in determining a real ambient temperature between an ambient temperature range of 70° F. and 85° F. since this is the range where the most temperature error occurs as illustrated in FIG. 3 . The variables X1 and X2 are shown in terms of resistance since the head thermistor 20 is a temperature sensitive resistor that outputs sensed ambient temperatures in terms of resistance which is then converted by an Analog-to-Digital converter (not shown) into A/D counts used to derive the real ambient temperature being sensed by thermistor 20 . Preliminary testing of the scaling factor ∝ has shown a good correlation to room temperature with agreement between tympanic thermometers using this scaling factor and a calibrated thermocouple of within 0.5° F. Referring to FIGS. 4-5, a flow chart of the ambient temperature subsystem 11 is shown illustrating the steps used by the computer 12 in determining the ambient temperature stability of the tympanic thermometer 16 before recalibration as well as determining whether the real ambient temperature sensed by the head thermistor 20 falls within the range of temperatures that allows recalibration of the thermometer 16 to occur. As shown in FIG. 4, the computer 12 instructs the thermometer's 16 microprocessor 32 to download its EEPROM 24 contents to the computer 12 through the tethered serial date link 26 . The contents of the EEPROM 24 contains the calibration coefficients used to calibrate the tympanic thermometer 12 during factory calibration, identifying indicia that identifies the particular tympanic thermometer being recalibrated, and the maximum and minimum head thermistor 20 A/D counts recorded during factory calibration. Once the computer 12 receives the stored information from the EEPROM 24 , the computer 12 further instructs the tympanic thermometer 16 to take 10 present ambient A/D samples each from both the head thermistor 20 and tip thermistor 22 . The tympanic thermometer 16 then forwards these readings to the computer 12 which loops through each set of ten thermistor readings and determines the maximum and minimum A/D counts for the head thermistor 20 and tip thermistor 22 . In order to determine whether the tympanic thermometer 16 is temperature stable with respect to the ambient temperature being experienced by thermometer 16 , the computer 12 subtracts the maximum A/D count from the minimum A/D count derived from the ten readings previously taken from the head thermistor 20 to produce a difference value, delta. The computer 12 then compares delta against a predetermined threshold value stored in the computer's 12 memory. If delta exceeds the predetermined threshold, a “Unit Unstable” message is displayed by the computer 12 and the recalibration procedure is aborted. If delta does not exceed the predetermined threshold, the tympanic thermometer 16 is consider stable. Preferably, the predetermined threshold value is 10 A/D counts. Once the stability of the tympanic thermometer 16 is determined, the ambient temperature reading accuracy of the head thermistor 20 is checked. In order to determine the temperature reading accuracy of the head thermistor 20 , the computer 12 calculates the average A/D count from the ten current ambient temperature readings previously taken from the head thermistor 20 . Once the average head thermistor 20 A/D count is determined, the computer 12 calculates the average A/D count from the ten current ambient temperature readings previously taken from the tip thermistor 22 . The tip thermistor 22 is used as a safeguard to ensure the head thermistor 20 is operating properly and giving accurate ambient temperature readings to the computer 12 by comparing the ambient temperatures recorded by both thermistors 20 and 22 . The equation used to determine the error between the head thermistor 20 and the tip thermistor 22 is: Error=100*abs(HEADAVG−TIPAVG)/HEADAVG) where HEADAVG is the average of 10 ambient temperature readings taken from the head thermistor 20 ; TIPAVG is the average of 10 ambient temperature readings taken from the tip thermistor 22 ; and abs is an absolute value that ensures a positive value is derived for the error. If the error calculated is above the manufacturer's quoted 5% tolerance, then the computer 12 directs a “thermflag” error message be written to the computer's 12 display and the recalibration procedure is aborted. However, if the error calculated is below the manufacturer's tolerance, the computer 12 enters a subroutine A whereby the corrected ambient temperature is eventually calculated. Before the corrected ambient temperature can be determined, the uncorrected ambient temperature is calculated employing the linear approximation technique disclosed above. When computer 12 enters subroutine A the uncorrected temperature is calculated from the following equation: uncorrected temperature=100° F.−(HEADAVG−HILIMIT)*(100° F.−60° F./HILIMIT−LOLIMIT) wherein HEADAVG is the average ambient temperature taken from the ten temperature readings taken from the head thermistor 20 ; HILIMIT is the 100° F. ambient temperature end point in A/D counts; and the LOLIMIT is the 60° F. ambient temperature end point in A/D counts. Once the uncorrected ambient temperature is derived, the corrected ambient temperature is calculated by adding in the scaling factor, F(x), to the uncorrected temperature as follows: Corrected Temperature=Uncorr. Temp.+2.5*10 −6 *(HEADAVG−HILIMIT)*(HEADAV−LOLIMIT) wherein Uncorr. Temp. is the uncorrected temperature; HEADAVG is the average ambient temperature taken from the ten temperature readings from the head thermistor 20 ; HILIMIT is the 100° F. ambient temperature end point in A/D counts; and the LOLIMIT is the 60° F. ambient temperature end point in A/D counts. After the corrected ambient temperature is calculated, the computer 12 returns to the main program to determine whether the corrected ambient temperature is within a predetermined range of ambient temperatures. After the temperature stability of the tympanic thermometer 16 and the accuracy of the head thermistor 20 are determined, the computer 12 must ensure that the recalibration procedure occurs in an ambient environment that is within a predetermined ambient temperature range. Once the corrected ambient temperature is determined, the computer 12 compares that ambient temperature against an ambient temperature range between 70° F. and 85° F. If the corrected ambient temperature falls outside that predetermined range, the computer 12 writes a “−1” and “ambient error” to the display 28 and the recalibration procedure is aborted. However, if the corrected ambient temperature falls inside the predetermined range, then the computer 12 writes a “1” and “Ambient within Limits” to the display 28 and the recalibration procedure is allowed to run. Preferably, the ambient temperature range for permitting the recalibration procedure to begin is between 70° F. and 85° F. as noted above, however any suitable ambient temperature range that allows for recalibration of a tympanic thermometer without adversely affecting recalibration is felt to fall within the scope of the present invention. The computer 12 of the present invention is preferably a personal computer or other type of computer that has sufficient computational power to run the instructions illustrated in FIGS. 4-5. The computer 12 may also be utilized to archive and store the recalibration parameters as well as the calibration coefficients for individual tympanic thermometers. In this manner, a user may retrieve from memory calibration statistics for any number of tympanic thermometers that have been recalibrated over a period of time by the computer 12 . Further, the thermometer to be recalibrated is preferably a tympanic thermometer as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,293,877 to O'Hara et al., however any thermometer that utilizes infrared radiation to determine the core body temperature of a person and includes an internal ambient sensor is felt to fall within the scope of the present invention. In an alternative embodiment, the tympanic thermometer 16 may be linked directly to the computer 12 through the tethered serial data link 26 without having the recalibration device 14 interposed therebetween. In another alternative embodiment, the computer 12 may also function as an archiving means whereby past calibration coefficients and other kinds of information for any particular thermometer may be stored in memory 30 for future reference and use. Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims will cover such modifications that fall within the scope of the invention.
The present invention is directed to an ambient temperature recalibration subsystem for a recalibration system that recalibrates a tympanic thermometer. In particular, the present invention relates to a computer-related invention comprising a computer that is in communication with a tympanic thermometer which includes an ambient sensing subsystem for sensing the surrounding ambient temperature experienced by the tympanic thermometer. The ambient temperature recalibration subsystem makes several threshold determinations before recalibration of the tympanic thermometer is allowed to proceed. The computer first instructs the thermometer to take a plurality of ambient temperature readings for determining whether the current ambient temperature experienced by the thermometer is stable. Once the temperature stability of the tympanic thermometer is determined, the computer determines whether the ambient sensing subsystem is providing an accurate ambient temperature reading by cross referencing one ambient sensor against another in the ambient sensing subsystem. An average ambient temperature is then determined from the plurality of readings previously taken which is then corrected using a scaling factor. If the corrected ambient temperature falls within a predetermined range of ambient temperatures, the computer permits the recalibration procedure to proceed.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a wind turbine blade vortex generator unit for a wind turbine blade, where said wind turbine blade comprises at least a root end, a distal tip end, a pressure side and a suction side, where said pressure side and said suction side constitute an aerodynamic profile with a leading edge and a trailing edge, hereinafter referred to as an airfoil, and where said wind turbine blade comprises at least one series of vortex generator units, comprising fins extending substantially perpendicular to the surface of said airfoil and substantially in a direction from the leading edge towards the trailing edge of the wind turbine blade, where said fins have a height measured perpendicular from a base having a width and a thickness and to a free end, where the vortex generator units each comprises a fin connected to an outer side of said base, and where said fin is tapered from a trailing edge side towards a leading edge side and thus appears delta shaped, and where each of said vortex generator units further comprises a layer of adhesive on an inner side of said base, extending in a base plane. [0003] 2. Description of Related Art [0004] The present invention also relates to a method for installing a series of vortex generator units at a wind turbine blade, and even further to a wind turbine blade comprising such a vortex generator unit. [0005] The development of more cost-effective wind turbines means that the size and height of wind turbines has an increasing role. The size of wind turbine blades has been increased over years and still is. Designing an effective blade becomes more and more difficult as the blades become longer and wider and because of the fact that the blades has to be optimized to quite a span in wind speeds and to other factors that might have influence on the performance of a specific aerodynamic profile. Therefore, there remains a need for improving the aerodynamic properties of wind turbine blades according to specific needs. Such needs will typically be calculated either theoretical or on behalf of specific measurements, but also measurements alone can be used as input for performing improvements. [0006] Wind turbine blades typically comprise an airfoil shaped shell which is supported by using internal reinforcement structures. The airfoil shape and the internal structure of a wind turbine blade will typically be designed as effective as possible but still with an eye to as low energy cost (COE) as possible in a particular target market (wind range and environmental requirements). [0007] The design of the airfoil shape of a wind turbine blade is thus a trade-off between power production, structural mass and cost, induced loads, noise and transport considerations. As a consequence of this, the efficiency of the blades are very often also a trade-off as it is costly to manufacture and time consuming to design and manufacture molds for each and every specific blade condition. Thus, blades are designed, molds are prepared and blades are manufactured in order to be as close to optimum as possible. [0008] To obtain a closer to optimum solution, it is known to attach different devices, such as vortex generators, gurney flaps, and trailing edge extender in form of a tape, to the wind turbine blade, in order to make the trade-offs less problematic and thus make a specific blade design perform better under specific conditions. [0009] Vortex generators, as well as gurney flaps, are used to optimize the aerodynamic performance, and a trailing edge extender made from tape will reduce noise generated from the blade. Such tape is so flexible that it has no capacity to redirect the air flow passing over the blade, and hence it has no impact on the lift coefficient of the blade profile. [0010] From U.S. Patent Application Publication 2012/0257977 A1 a vortex generator comprising two fins is known where the base of the vortex generator comprises a recess for an adhesive pad to be mounted. This should apparently solve the problem from the prior art solutions of having to seal along the perimeter of the base. In order to allow the adhesive pad to be put in contact with the surface of a wind turbine blade, the recess is a little less deep than the thickness of the adhesive pad. This will evidently leave a narrow gap along the perimeter of the base. [0011] International Patent Application WO 2007/140771 A1 and corresponding U.S. Pat. No. 8,678,746 disclose a strip having one or more vortex generators where the base of the strip has the same width at the leading and trailing edges of the projecting fin. This wide frontal edge of the base will disrupt the air flow in the boundary layers around the vortex generator, thereby reducing the effect of the vortex generator. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0012] An object of this invention is to provide a wind turbine blade comprising a number of vortex generator units. A further object of this invention is to provide a method for arranging and installing such vortex generator units. An object of the invention is also to provide a vortex generator unit for a wind turbine blade. An even further object of the invention is to provide a vortex generator that has a large degree of freedom related to the position of one or more vortex generator units and where the influence of one or more vortex generator units on other vortex generator units can be individually adapted. It is, in other words, an object of the invention to provide a solution that will enhance the aerodynamic performance of a wind turbine blade, at a specific wind turbine, where the production of the specific wind turbine has room for improvement. [0013] As also mentioned above, the invention concerns a wind turbine blade vortex generator unit for a wind turbine blade, where said wind turbine blade comprises at least a root end, a distal tip end, a pressure side and a suction side, where said pressure side and said suction side constitute an aerodynamic profile with a leading edge and a trailing edge, hereinafter referred to as an airfoil, and where said wind turbine blade comprises at least one series of vortex generator units comprising fins extending substantially perpendicular to the surface of said airfoil and substantially in a direction from the leading edge towards the trailing edge of the wind turbine blade, where said fins have a height measured perpendicular from a base having a width and a thickness and to a free end, where the vortex generator units each comprises a fin connected to an outer side of said base, and where said fin is tapered from a trailing edge side towards a leading edge side and thus appears delta shaped, and where each of said vortex generator units further comprises a layer of adhesive on an inner side of said base which layer of adhesive extends in a base plane. [0014] The new and inventive characteristic of such a wind turbine vortex generator unit is that said layer of adhesive extends to an outermost periphery of the base of said vortex generator unit, where the vortex generator unit comprises exactly one fin, and where the base of said vortex generator unit, in the base plane, has an airfoil shaped periphery comprising a rounded leading edge and a trailing edge. [0015] Having the adhesive extending to the outer most edge makes any additional sealing along the perimeter of the base unnecessary as with prior art solutions, and further there is no gap (not even a narrow gap) between the base and the surface of the wind turbine blade. No matter how small a gap is found, there will evidently be dirt and debris, such as sand and insects, that over time will fill the gap and then will cause the vortex generator units to become loose and eventually to fall off—also called the pealing effect. [0016] If the wind turbine is operated in areas where the temperature drops below the freezing point, this can be a problem as any wet dirt or debris will expand when frozen, and thus the vortex generator unit will be lifted from the surface of the wind turbine blade. Also wind turbines placed in warmer conditions face problems as described above. The environment across wind turbine blades is very harsh and it is very crucial if, e.g., the applied vortex generators have a tendency to become loose, but over time the mentioned conditions will cause vortex generators to be loosened and to fall off due to the “pealing effect”. These drawbacks are prohibited by arranging an adhesive to the absolute outermost edge of the base of a vortex generator unit as nothing then can wedge itself in between the base and the surface. The adhesive will of cause be manufactured from a UV resistant material, and further the adhesive will have only a minimum thickness in order to provide a good and strong adhesion that still can be adapted to the curved surface of a wind turbine blade due to elasticity in the adhesive and/or in the base of the vortex generator unit. [0017] A vortex generator unit comprising exactly one fin has the benefit of being 100% independent as said one fin will be able to be placed in any position in relation to other vortex generator units as well as in relation to no other vortex generators. Known vortex generator units typically comprise a panel, where one panel comprises a number of vortex generating fins and is typically arranged in pairs of two fins, and where one panel comprises four or more pairs, and even up to ten pairs of fins are common. Using such panels do not allow for a more individual and adapted placement of the vortex generator units as the panels will be arranged in one single row, very often in pre-manufactured cut outs/recesses in the surface of the wind turbine blades. The positions of the vortex generators are thus determined by either the cut-outs or recesses or at least by the pairs of vortex generators at a panel, and not on behalf of individual measurements or individual needs. A panel comprising, e.g., ten pairs of fins will most probably/likely only have one pair of fins in an optimum position, whereas the rest of the pairs of fins on a panel will only be situated in a “nearly” optimum location. Using the invention, all vortex generator units may be arranged in a specific and selected position in order to help the wind turbine blade to produce more power. [0018] The airfoil shaped periphery of the base comprising a rounded leading edge and a trailing edge has great influence on the aerodynamic properties of the vortex generator as the shape of the base will enhance the flow of passing air in the boundary layers along the airfoil shaped surface due to the shape of the base. The airfoil shaped periphery of the base may be designed according to known airfoil series such as NACA, SERI, or other suitable airfoil series. [0019] By having an airfoil shaped base, the flow in the boundary layer is optimized, and by having the adhesive extending to the outermost periphery, the installation becomes “long lasting” and no sealing is required along the edge of the base and there is no narrow gap under the base as seen in U.S. Patent Application Publication US 2012/0257977 A1. [0020] In an embodiment of a wind turbine blade vortex generator unit according to the invention, the base at the leading edge has a width (W-lead) in the base plane, and where the base at the trailing edge has a width (W-trail) in the base plane, and where W-lead is smaller than W-trail. Thus, the base is narrower at the leading edge than at the trailing edge of said base. The leading edge of the base is facing the leading edge area of the wind turbine blade, as well as the trailing edge of the base is facing the trailing edge area of the wind turbine blade. Both sides of the base may be shaped alike and thus be “mirrored” from one side to the other side, but the shape may also be like a pressure side at one side of the base and like a suction side at the other side of the base. The design depends on the specific needs for the individual vortex generator units. [0021] A wind turbine blade vortex generator unit according to the invention may have a base with a rounded peripheral edge along the perimeter, where the base is rounded and, in general, convex on both sides of the base. The trailing edge of the base could however be shaped in a concave design in order to influence how the vortex is shaped at least around the base of the vortex generator unit. This can, in some situations, further have an impact on the overall performance of the vortex generator unit or units. [0022] Furthermore, a wind turbine blade vortex generator unit according to the invention comprises a base that has a rounded/chamfered edge along the perimeter and in the direction of the thickness. This will make the influence of the vortex generator unit even smaller, as the thickness of the vortex generator unit that extends from the surface of the wind turbine blade becomes smaller and more aerodynamic. [0023] In general, a vortex generator unit according to the invention comes in four different main designs, namely: with a 5 mm high fin, a 14 mm wide base, a 22 mm long base and a 0.5 mm thick base, with a 10 mm high fin, a 14 mm wide base, a 22 mm long base and a 0.5 mm thick base, with a 20 mm high fin, a 28 mm wide base, a 44 mm long base and a 1.0 mm thick base, with a 30 mm high fin, a 28 mm wide base, a 44 mm long base and a 1.0 mm thick base. [0028] Such four standard sizes of vortex generator units according to the invention cover the need for wind turbine blades as the optimum height of the fins of a vortex generator varies along the length of a blade. It is, e.g., very common to use higher fins close to the root end and lower fins close to the tip end, which of cause can vary depending on the specific conditions for the wind turbine blade in question. [0029] On the inner side of the base there will typically be arranged an adhesive pad, such as a double adhesive tape, but a viscous adhesive mass can also be used and applied at the base of one or more vortex generator units. The adhesive will typically have a thickness of 0.4 to 0.7 mm. [0030] All measurements given above may have a tolerance of ±1 to 20%, ±1 to 15%, ±1 to 10%, ±1 to 5%. It shall, however, be understood that the size of the different parts of a vortex generator unit may be calculated or otherwise determined to values in between the mentioned values, but due to production costs and logistics there will be a number of standard variants to choose between, as mentioned above, and that the most suitable model will be used in order to gain the most from the vortex generator unit or units. [0031] In an embodiment of a wind turbine blade vortex generator unit according to the invention, the inner side of the base comprises a surface treatment between the base itself and the adhesive, where the surface treatment is at least one of the following: a layer of primer, a plasma treatment, a corona treatment, an abrasive treatment, and where the adhesive is one of the following: a viscous adhesive mass, a double adhesive pad/tape. The surface treatment may thus be a layer of primer that is applied at the inner side of the base by any suitable method, such as by using a brush, a roller or a spray can, but the surface treatment may also comprise a kind of imaginary layer such as a treatment using an electric arc in order to establish a better adhesion between the base and the adhesive used. [0032] The adhesive will typically be a double adhesive tape added to the vortex generator unit and with a backing tape on the surface intended for adhesion to the surface of a wind turbine blade, but other types of adhesive will also be possible. [0033] The invention also comprises a method for installing a series of vortex generator units, according to the description above, at a wind turbine blade where at least one series of vortex generator units are installed in a position relative to the trailing edge and to the tip end of the wind turbine blade. The vortex generator units may be installed in a line extending at a certain distance from the trailing edge, but the vortex generator units may also be installed in various distances, e.g., from said trailing edge. As an example, fifty vortex generator units may be installed in a continuous line from the tip end towards the root end of a wind turbine blade. The next, e.g., twenty vortex generator units may be installed in another continuous line in another distance in relation to the trailing edge, or e.g., to the leading edge. Even further sets of vortex generator units may be arranged at different locations and thus forming a stepped line of vortex generator units along a certain distance of a wind turbine blade. One of said steps may thus comprise only one vortex generator unit, but will typically comprise a number of vortex generator units. [0034] Installing the vortex generator units in relation to the trailing edge and the tip end of a wind turbine blade is very attractive as the trailing edge and the tip end are very easy to define and to measure any position from. Further, it is very easy to position any tools along the trailing edge in order to either perform any marking or to arrange an installation tool as will be discussed below. [0035] A method according to the invention comprises that a series of vortex generator units comprises exactly one vortex generator unit comprising exactly one fin. Having a series of only one single vortex generator unit, it becomes possible to install the units in a very unique pattern based on, e.g., measurements, calculations, simulations and experience, in order to obtain a better performance of a specific wind turbine blade at a specific wind turbine in a specific location. The positions of every single vortex generator unit can thus be very specific and precise. Comparing this option with the known methods of placing vortex generators, it becomes very clear that until now vortex generators have been placed more or less random in order to see, very often, small improvements. The main reason for this is that the vortex generators are placed in predetermined positions, which very often is based on experience and “gut feelings” of the persons involved. By performing very accurate measurements and calculations, which of cause will be based on a combination of facts and experience, a very target oriented solution can be reached with a minimum of downtime during installation of the desired types and sizes of vortex generator units. Improvements of up to 0.8%, 1.2% or even 1.5% are possible at many wind turbines, simply by arranging vortex generators in an optimized number and pattern according to the invention. Such an improvement will be cost neutral in a very short time—actually within very few days of operation there will be a measurable increase in production. [0036] In a method according to the invention, at least one vortex generator unit may be installed with the fin in an acute angle in relation to the direction of the chord of the wind turbine blade in the specific position. The acute angle falls within the interval of 0 to 30 degrees, preferably within the interval of 0 to 15 degrees, more preferably within the interval of 0 to 7 degrees, even more preferably within the interval of 0 to 3 degrees in relation to the chord. The individual vortex generator units may be arranged with the same or with different acute angles and they may be arranged pairwise and pointed in the same or in the opposite direction. Further, the fin of a vortex generator may be tilted according to the base, meaning that the fin is NOT orthogonal to the base, and the thickness of the fin may be tapered from, e.g., 1.0 mm to 0.5 mm in order to have sufficient slip in a mould where the vortex generator typically will be molded. [0037] A vortex generator unit according to the invention will typically be produced by an injection molding process from a polymer material having suitable properties, e.g., a marine grade polymer. Steel materials will also be very effective, as the base and fin can be made very thin and very effective. When using materials which are electrical conducting, it becomes necessary to address problems with regard to lightning, as lightning leaders will stretch out from such parts. A vortex generator will thus act as a lightning receptor as is very well known within the wind turbine blade business. Vortex generator units can of cause be connected to down conducting wires and also fulfill this task. [0038] According to a method according to the invention, at least one vortex generator may be arranged in an installation tool, e.g., in a fixture, where said tool comprises means for aligning said tool with at least one of: a marking on a wind turbine blade, a physical part of a wind turbine blade, e.g., the trailing edge, where said tool further comprises means for holding at least one vortex generator unit in a specific position during installation of said at least one vortex generator unit. The tool may comprise fixation means for one or more vortex generator units, e.g., up to thirty or forty vortex generators, where all the vortex generators in the tool are installed in one go and in relation to each other and in relation to physical measures on a wind turbine blade. Such measures will preferably be the distance from the trailing edge and from the tip end of a specific blade, as both the trailing edge and the tip end are rather easy to define and to measure from or to place the installation tool against. Such a blade may very well be a blade already installed at a wind turbine, meaning that a retrofitting is taking place. Installation may also take place as one of the last processes during manufacturing of a wind turbine blade. A portion of vortex generator units may be installed by using already installed vortex generator units as fix points for the next set of vortex generator units. An installation tool may, e.g., have one or more free holding means for a vortex generator unit, that can be placed over one or more already installed vortex generator units. This will allow vortex generator units to be installed in relation to the trailing edge of a wind turbine blade and in relation to other vortex generator units, whereby it becomes obvious that consecutive measurement from, e.g., the tip end is unnecessary as long as there is a relation to other vortex generator units. [0039] A method according to the invention, where an installation tool is needed, may include that said installation tool comprises at least two, preferably 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 or even more means for holding a vortex generator unit, where the vortex generator units are arranged in a specific pattern in said means, e.g., in apertures in a resilient material, where adhesive means at the base of the individual vortex generators are prepared/applied, where the installation tool is operated and, thus, bringing the adhesive on the base of the vortex generator units in contact with the surface of a wind turbine blade in specific positions, where the installation tool is removed. [0044] Hereafter, the individual vortex generator units may be manually checked for perfect adhesion, but the installation tool may also comprise means for applying a proper pressure on every single vortex generator. This can e.g. be achieved by fixating the installation tool to the surface of a wind turbine blade using suction cups and by applying a suitable pressure between the tool and the blade which will urge the base of the vortex generator and thus the adhesive material against the surface of the wind turbine blade. [0045] The installation tool may be made from any kind of material, where the individual vortex generator units may be held in a specific and predetermined position by mechanical means or by friction or any other suitable, means. The tool may, e.g., be a plate shaped foam tool, where vortex generators are arranged in apertures in said foam until they are placed at a wind turbine blade surface. After adhesion, the tool will be removed by lifting it away from the surface and the adhesive will overcome the friction between the fins of the vortex generator units leaving them in position. [0046] The invention further concerns a wind turbine blade comprising one or more vortex generator units according to the detailed description above, and even further, the invention also comprises a wind turbine blade comprising a series of vortex generator units installed according to the above-mentioned method. [0047] By comparing the described invention with the known solutions, it will become clear to the skilled person that prior art solutions in general have been a kind of “wild guesses” based on rather little experience and “gut feelings” and where a large degree of compromises and coincidences has been very common. [0048] Taking the job of calculating and measuring to a higher level and even more serious, quite a benefit will become visible and installation of vortex generator units, according to the invention, will be very attractive as performance of the wind turbines will increase. [0049] The invention is described by example only and with reference to the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING [0050] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a wind turbine; [0051] FIG. 2 is a side view of a vortex generator unit; [0052] FIG. 3 is an end view of a vortex generator unit; [0053] FIG. 4 is a top view of a vortex generator unit; [0054] FIG. 5 shows a wind turbine blade comprising a number of vortex generator units in a discontinuous line; [0055] FIG. 6 shows a wind turbine blade comprising a number of vortex generator units in a continuous line; [0056] FIG. 7 is a performance diagram of Lift vs. Angel of Attack (AOA); [0057] FIG. 8 is a performance diagram of Glide Ratio vs. Angel of Attack (AOA); [0058] FIG. 9 shows an installation tool for vortex generator units. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0059] In the following text, the figures will be described one by one, and the different parts and positions seen in the figures will be numbered with the same numbers in the different figures. Not all parts and positions indicated in a specific figure will necessarily be discussed together with that figure. [0060] FIG. 1 shows a wind turbine 1 comprising a wind turbine tower 2 and a nacelle 3 mounted at the top of the wind turbine tower 2 , e.g., via a yaw system. The wind turbine tower 2 may comprise one or more tower sections mounted on top of each other. A rotor hub 4 is rotatably mounted to the nacelle 3 via a rotor shaft. Three wind turbine blades 5 are mounted to the rotor hub 4 so that they form a rotor plane as the wind turbine blades 5 extends radially outwards from said rotor hub 4 . The wind turbine tower 2 is mounted onto a foundation 6 extending above a ground level 7 . [0061] The wind turbine blade 5 comprises a first end/blade root 8 configured to be mounted to the rotor hub 4 . The wind turbine blade 5 also comprises a second end/tip end 9 arranged at the free end of the blade 5 . The wind turbine blade 5 has an aerodynamic profile along the length of the blade comprising a leading edge 10 and a trailing edge 11 . The wind turbine blade 5 may comprise a number of integrated support structures, e.g., spar caps and shear webs, arranged along the length of the aerodynamic profile. [0062] FIG. 2 shows a side view of a vortex generator unit 12 , comprising a fin 13 having a fin height 14 , a base 15 having a base thickness 16 , a base width 17 ( FIG. 4 ), and a base length 18 . The base 15 further comprises an inner side 19 of the base 15 and an outer side 20 of the base 15 . At the inner side 19 of the base 15 there is arranged an adhesive 21 , having an adhesive thickness 22 extending over the full base 15 . The base length 18 extends from the leading edge 23 of the vortex generator unit 12 to the trailing edge 24 of the unit 12 and the fin 13 is tapered from the area of the trailing edge 24 , where the fin 13 has full height 14 , to the area of the leading edge 23 . The base 15 has a rounded/chamfered edge 25 along the perimeter and in the direction of the thickness. [0063] In FIG. 3 , an end view of a vortex generator unit 12 is shown where it is clearly seen that the thickness of the fin 13 is tapered from the base 15 towards the top. This is due to slip in the mold during production, but also in order to obtain the best vortex, as a very thin fin will enhance the performance of a vortex generator unit. It is however a balance between aerodynamic performance and structural performance. [0064] FIG. 4 shows a top view of a vortex generator unit 12 , where the base 15 has a rounded peripheral edge 26 . The shape is designed according to known airfoil series, such as NACA, SERI, or other suitable airfoil series. In this embodiment, the base is symmetrical on both sides of the fin 13 , where the shape corresponds to the suction side of a specific NACA profile which is calculated to give an optimum aerodynamic behavior when the vortex generator unit 12 is installed and in use. The vortex generator unit 12 , as seen in FIG. 4 , has a base 15 having a width 17 ′ (W-lead) at the leading edge 23 and a width 17 ″ (W-trail) at the trailing edge, where W-lead 17 ′ is smaller than W-trail 17 ″. [0065] FIG. 5 shows a wind turbine blade 6 comprising a number of vortex generator units 12 arranged in a discontinuous line. In this example, the vortex generator units are arranged as a series of individual vortex generator units as seen by the “steps” in the line of vortex generator units 12 . In a more specific arrangement, the individual vortex generator units 12 could be arranged individually, but individually and pair-wise will be more common, and thus, the wind turbine blade 6 would be covered with even more widely spread vortex generator units 12 giving a boost to the performance of a wind turbine blade. [0066] FIG. 6 shows a wind turbine blade 6 comprising a number of vortex generator units 12 arranged in a continuous line, where the units 12 are installed in relation to the tip end 9 and the trailing edge 11 of the wind turbine blade 6 . The vortex generator units 12 seen in FIG. 5 are also arranged in relation to the tip end 9 and the trailing edge 11 of the wind turbine blade 6 . [0067] FIG. 7 shows a performance diagram of Lift vs. Angle of Attack (AOA), where different situations are depicted. The x-axis 27 shows angle of attack (AOA) and the y-axis 28 shows the lift. The first graph 30 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a clean/smooth surface and without any vortex generator units 12 . The second graph 31 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a rough/dirty surface and without any vortex generator units 12 . By comparing these two graphs 30 , 31 , it becomes quite clear that the lift performance is rather sensitive to a rough/dirty surface, especially with increasing angle of attack. It is, however, practically impossible to have a clean and smooth surface of a wind turbine blade for a longer period as debris and insects evidently will attach to the blade surface and build up a rough layer, and thus, lower the production of the wind turbine blade/wind turbine. Because of this fact, it is quite common to clean the wind turbine blade on a regular basis to enhance the production, even though it is an expensive operation. [0068] The third graph 32 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a clean/smooth surface but WITH vortex generator units 12 according to the invention. The difference between the third graph 32 and the first graph 30 is the pure effect of using vortex generator units 12 . The fourth graph 33 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a rough/dirty surface but WITH vortex generator units 12 according to the invention. Now, comparing the second graph 31 with the fourth graph 33 , namely where wind turbine blade 6 has a rough and dirty surface without and with vortex generator units 12 respectively, a very distinct improvement of the generated lift is seen which will lead to an attractive and higher performance of the wind turbine. Using the vortex generator units according to the invention thus makes it possible to “move” the intervals of cleaning and servicing the wind turbine blades 6 , and thus, to prolong said intervals. [0069] FIG. 8 shows a performance diagram of Glide Ratio vs. Angle of Attack (AOA), where different situations are depicted. The x-axis 27 shows angle of attack (AOA) and the y-axis 29 shows the glide ratio. The first graph 30 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a clean/smooth surface and without any vortex generator units 12 . The second graph 31 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a rough/dirty surface and without any vortex generator units 12 . By comparing these two graphs 30 , 31 , it becomes quite clear that also the glide ratio is rather sensitive to a rough/dirty surface as there is a large difference between the two graphs, especially with increasing angle of attack. It is, as mentioned above, practically impossible to have a clean and smooth surface of a wind turbine blade 6 for a longer period as debris and insects evidently will attach to the blade surface and build up a rough layer, and, thus, lower the production of the wind turbine blade/wind turbine. Because of this fact, it is quite common to clean the wind turbine blade on a regular basis to enhance the production, even though it is an expensive operation. [0070] The third graph 32 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a clean/smooth surface but WITH vortex generator units 12 according to the invention. The difference between the third graph 32 and the first graph 30 is the pure effect on the glide ratio of using vortex generator units 12 which actually will lower the glide ratio to some extent. The fourth graph 33 shows the result for a wind turbine blade 6 having a rough/dirty surface but WITH vortex generator units 12 according to the invention. Now, comparing the second and fourth graphs 31 , 33 , it becomes clear that the glide ratio is higher, and thus, that the performance of a wind turbine blade 6 is higher when using vortex generator units 12 . What is even more interesting to see is that the difference between the second graph 31 and the fourth graph 33 , namely where the wind turbine blade 6 has a rough and dirty surface without and with vortex generator units respectively, is rather large. Here, we see a very distinct improvement of the glide ratio which also will lead to an attractive and higher performance of the wind turbine. Again, this shows that using the vortex generator units according to the invention makes it possible to “move” the intervals of cleaning and servicing the wind turbine blades 6 , and thus, to prolong said intervals or simply to have a better overall performance. [0071] The reason for studying especially the second graph 31 and the fourth graph 33 in the two above situations is that these graphs depict the case where the blade is dirty which it evidently will be even after only a short period of time after cleaning. It is, however, clear that a clean and smooth surface will give the best performance, but it is also clear that a clean and smooth blade only exists in theory or at least only for a very limited period of time. [0072] FIG. 9 shows a part of a wind turbine blade 6 where an installation tool 34 for vortex generator units 12 is used. The installation tool 34 comprises adjustable aligning means 35 for engaging the trailing edge 11 of the wind turbine blade 6 . The aligning means 35 could also be used for aligning the installation tool 34 along a marking on the blade surface. The installation tool 34 also comprises holding means 36 for holding a number of vortex generator units 12 in a specific position/angle during installation of the vortex generator units 12 . Further, the installation tool 34 also comprises adjustment means 37 for adjusting the distance from the aligning means 35 to the holding means 36 .
A wind turbine blade vortex generator unit and a method for installing it, where a wind turbine blade has at least one series of vortex generator units formed of fins extending substantially perpendicular to the surface of the airfoil and substantially in a direction from the leading edge towards the trailing edge of the wind turbine blade. The vortex generator units each comprises a fin connected to an outer side of the fin base, and where the fin is delta shaped tapering from a trailing edge towards a leading edge and where each of the vortex generator units has a layer of adhesive on an inner side of the base that extends to an outermost periphery of the base. The vortex generator unit has exactly one fin, and the base has an airfoil shaped periphery with a rounded leading edge and a trailing edge.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the field of plant breeding and, more specifically, to the development of tomato variety ENHANCER (also designated as NUN 00001 TOR). BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The goal of vegetable breeding is to combine various desirable traits in a single variety/hybrid. Such desirable traits may include greater yield, resistance to diseases, insects or other pests, tolerance to heat and drought, better agronomic quality, higher nutritional value, enhanced growth rate and improved fruit properties. Breeding techniques take advantage of a plant's method of pollination. There are two general methods of pollination: a plant self-pollinates if pollen from one flower is transferred to the same or another flower of the same genotype. A plant cross-pollinates if pollen comes to it from a flower of a different genotype. Plants that have been self-pollinated and selected for a uniform type over many generations become homozygous at almost all gene loci and produce a uniform population of true breeding progeny of homozygous plants. A cross between two such homozygous plants of different varieties produces a uniform population of hybrid plants that are heterozygous for many gene loci. The extent of heterozygosity in the hybrid is a function of the genetic distance between the parents. Conversely, a cross of two plants each heterozygous at a number of loci produces a segregating population of hybrid plants that differ genetically and are not uniform. The resulting non-uniformity makes performance unpredictable. Tomato cultivars may be grouped by maturity, i.e. the time required from planting the seed to the stage where fruit harvest can occur. Standard maturity classifications include ‘early’, ‘midseason’ or late-maturing’. Another classification for tomatoes is the developmental timing of fruit set. ‘Determinant’ plants grow foliage, then transition into a reproductive phase of flower setting, pollination and fruit development. Consequently, determinant cultivars have a large proportion of the fruit ripen within a short time frame. Growers that harvest only once in a season favor determinant type cultivars. In contrast, ‘indeterminate’ types grow foliage, then enter a long phase where flower and fruit development proceed along with new foliar growth. Growers that harvest the same plants multiple times favor indeterminate type cultivars. In response to more recent consumer demands for dietary diversity, tomato breeders have developed a wider range of colors. In addition to expanding the range of red colored fruits, there are cultivars that produce fruits that are creamy white, lime green, yellow, green, golden, orange and purple. Additionally, there are multi-colored varieties exemplified by mainly red fruited varieties with green shoulders, and both striped- and variegated-colored fruit. Tomato Grafting has been utilized worldwide in Asia and Europe for greenhouse and high tunnel production and is gaining popularity in the United States. In tomatoes, increases in fruit yield are likely due to increased water and nutrient uptake among vigorous rootstock genotypes. The main advantage of grafting is that rootstocks can be used which provide or enhance resistance against soil-borne diseases, especially when genetic or chemical approaches for disease management are not available or not sufficient. Thus, disease susceptible tomato scions can be grafted onto disease resistant rootstocks for tomato production. Apart from providing resistance against fungi and viruses, the use of grafting can also increase tolerance against different abiotic stresses such as cold/low temperature tolerance, drought tolerance, salinity tolerance, flooding/water tolerance and can have beneficial effects on e.g. growth, yield, nutrient uptake, plant vigor, fruit size and fruit quality. There are several methods for grafting tomatoes each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common methods are described in Davis et al. (2008), Critical Reviews in Plant Sciences Vol. 27, “Cucurbit Grafting”, page 50-74, and are amongst others the following: 1) Tongue Approach/Approach Graft, 2) Hole insertion/Terminal/Top Insertion Graft, 3) One Cotyledon/Slant/Splice/Tube Graft and 4) Cleft/Side Insertion Graft The fruits of tomato plants which are more suitable for processing are generally red colored and have pink to red/crimson fruit flesh. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In one aspect, the present invention provides a tomato plant of the variety designated ENHANCER. Also provided are tomato plants having all or essentially all the physiological and morphological characteristics of such plants. Parts of the tomato plant of the present invention are also provided, for example, including a leaf, pollen, an ovule, a fruit, a scion, a rootstock and a cell of the plant. The invention also concerns seed of tomato variety ENHANCER. The tomato seed of the invention may be provided as an essentially homogeneous population of tomato seed. Therefore, seed of the invention may be defined as forming at least about 97% of the total seed, including at least about 98%, 99% or more of the seed. The population of tomato seed may be particularly defined as being essentially free from other seed. The seed population may be separately grown to provide an essentially homogeneous population of tomato plants according to the invention. Also encompassed are plants grown from seeds of tomato variety ENHANCER and plant parts thereof. Another aspect refers to a tomato plant, or a part thereof, having all or essentially all the physiological and morphological characteristics of a tomato plant of tomato variety ENHANCER. In another aspect of the invention, a tissue culture of regenerable cells of a plant of variety ENHANCER is provided. The tissue culture will preferably be capable of regenerating plants capable of expressing all of the physiological and morphological characteristics of a plant of the invention, and of regenerating plants having substantially the same genotype as other such plants. Examples of some such physiological and morphological characteristics include those traits set forth in Table 1 herein. The regenerable cells in such tissue cultures may be derived, for example, from embryos, meristems, cotyledons, pollen, leaves, anthers, roots, root tips, pistil, flower, seed and stalk. Thus, a tissue culture may comprise regenerable cells from embryos, meristems, cotyledons, pollen, leaves, anthers, roots, root tips, pistil, flower, seed and stalk. Still further, the present invention provides tomato plants regenerated from a tissue culture of the invention, the plants having all the physiological and morphological characteristics of a plant of the invention. In yet another aspect of the invention, processes are provided for producing tomato seeds, plants and fruit, which processes generally comprise crossing a first parent tomato plant with a second parent tomato plant, wherein at least one of the first or second parent tomato plants is a plant of the of the variety designated. These processes may be further exemplified as processes for preparing hybrid tomato seed or plants, wherein a first tomato plant is crossed with a second tomato plant of a different, distinct variety to provide a hybrid that has, as one of its parents, the tomato plant variety ENHANCER. In one embodiment of the invention, the invention provides a method for producing a seed of a variety derived from ENHANCER comprising the steps of (a) crossing a tomato plant of variety ENHANCER with a second tomato plant; and (b) allowing seed of a variety ENHANCER-derived tomato plant to form. This method can further comprise steps of (c) crossing a plant grown from said variety ENHANCER-derived tomato seed with itself or a second tomato plant to yield additional variety ENHANCER-derived tomato seed; (d) growing said additional variety ENHANCER-derived tomato seed of step (c) to yield additional variety ENHANCER-derived tomato plants; and optionally (e) repeating the crossing and growing steps of (c) and (d) to generate further variety ENHANCER-derived tomato plants. For example, the second tomato plant is of an inbred tomato variety. In another embodiment of the invention, tomato variety ENHANCER is crossed to produce hybrid seed of the variety designated ENHANCER. In any cross herein, either parent may be the male or female parent. In these processes, crossing will result in the production of seed. The seed production occurs regardless of whether the seed is collected or not. In one embodiment of the invention, the first step in “crossing” comprises planting seeds of a first and a second parent tomato plant, often in proximity so that pollination will occur for example, mediated by insect vectors. Alternatively, pollen can be transferred manually. Where the plant is self-pollinated, pollination may occur without the need for direct human intervention other than plant cultivation. A second step may comprise cultivating or growing the seeds of the first and the second parent tomato plants into plants that bear flowers. A third step may comprise preventing self-pollination of the plants, such as by emasculating the male portions of flowers, (e.g., treating or manipulating the flowers to produce an emasculated parent tomato plant). Self-incompatibility systems may also be used in some hybrid crops for the same purpose. Self-incompatible plants still shed viable pollen and can pollinate plants of other varieties but are incapable of pollinating themselves or other plants of the same variety. A fourth step for a hybrid cross may comprise cross-pollination between the first and second parent tomato plants. In certain embodiments, pollen may be transferred manually or by the use of insect vectors. Yet another step comprises harvesting the seeds from at least one of the parent tomato plants. The harvested seed can be grown to produce a tomato plant or hybrid tomato plant. The present invention also provides the tomato seeds and plants produced by a process that comprises crossing a first parent tomato plant with a second parent tomato plant, wherein at least one of the first or second parent tomato plants is a plant provided herein, such as from variety ENHANCER. In another embodiment of the invention, tomato seed and plants produced by the process are first filial generation (F1) hybrid tomato seed and plants produced by crossing a plant in accordance with the invention with another, distinct plant. The present invention further contemplates plant parts of such an F1 hybrid tomato plant, and methods of use thereof. Therefore, certain exemplary embodiments of the invention provide an F1 hybrid tomato plant and seed thereof. In still yet another aspect, the present invention provides a method of producing a plant or a seed derived from variety ENHANCER, the method comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a progeny plant derived from said variety by crossing a plant of variety ENHANCER with a second plant; and (b) selfing the progeny plant or crossing it to the second plant or to a third plant to produce a seed of a progeny plant of a subsequent generation. The method may additionally comprise: (c) growing a progeny plant of a further subsequent generation from said seed of a progeny plant of a subsequent generation and selfing the progeny plant of a subsequent generation or crossing it to the second, the third, or a further plant; and repeating the steps for 3 or more times, e.g., an additional 3-10 generations to produce a further plant derived from the aforementioned starting variety. The further plant derived from variety ENHANCER may be an inbred variety, and the aforementioned repeated crossing steps may be defined as comprising sufficient inbreeding to produce the inbred variety. In the method, it may be desirable to select particular plants resulting from step (c) for continued crossing according to steps (b) and (c). By selecting plants having one or more desirable traits, a plant is obtained which possesses some of the desirable traits of the starting plant as well as potentially other selected traits. The invention also concerns methods of vegetatively propagating a plant of the invention. In certain embodiments, the method comprises the steps of: (a) collecting tissue capable of being propagated from a plant of the invention; (b) cultivating said tissue to obtain proliferated shoots; and (c) rooting said proliferated shoots to obtain rooted plantlets. In some of these embodiments, the method further comprises growing plants from said rooted plantlets. One aspect of the invention refers to a method of producing a tomato plant comprising crossing a tomato plant of variety ENHANCER with a second tomato plant one or more times. This method comprises in one embodiment selecting progeny from said crossing. In another aspect of the invention, a plant of variety ENHANCER comprising an added heritable trait is provided, e.g., an Essentially Derived Variety of ENHANCER having one, two or three physiological and/or morphological characteristics which are different from those of ENHANCER and which otherwise has all the physiological and morphological characteristics of Enhancer, wherein a representative sample of seed of variety ENHANCER has been deposited under NCIMB Accession Number 42423. The heritable trait may comprise a genetic locus that is, for example, a dominant or recessive allele. In one embodiment of the invention, a plant of the invention is defined as comprising a single locus conversion. For example, one, two, three or more heritable traits may be introgressed at any particular locus using a different allele that confers the new trait or traits of interest. In specific embodiments of the invention, the single locus conversion confers one or more traits such as, for example, herbicide tolerance, insect resistance, disease resistance and modulation of plant metabolism and metabolite profiles. In further embodiments, the trait may be conferred by a naturally occurring gene introduced into the genome of the variety by backcrossing, a natural or induced mutation, or a transgene introduced through genetic transformation techniques into the plant or a progenitor of any previous generation thereof. When introduced through transformation, a genetic locus may comprise one or more genes integrated at a single chromosomal location. For example, in certain embodiments, the invention provides methods of introducing a desired trait into a plant of the invention comprising: (a) crossing a plant of variety ENHANCER with a second tomato plant that comprises a desired trait to produce F1 progeny, (b) selecting an F1 progeny that comprises one, two, three or more desired trait(s), (c) crossing the selected F1 progeny with a plant of variety ENHANCER to produce backcross progeny, and (d) selecting backcross progeny comprising the desired trait(s) and which otherwise has all the physiological and morphological characteristics of variety ENHANCER. Optionally, steps (c) and (d) can be repeated one, two, three or more times such as three, four, five, six or seven times, in succession to produce selected fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh or eighth or higher backcross progeny that comprises the desired trait. The invention also provides tomato plants produced by these methods. Still yet another aspect of the invention refers to the genetic complement of a tomato plant variety of the invention. The phrase “genetic complement” is used to refer to the aggregate of nucleotide sequences, the expression of which defines the phenotype of, in the present case, a tomato plant of, or a cell or tissue of that plant. A genetic complement thus represents the genetic makeup of a cell, tissue or plant, and a hybrid genetic complement represents the genetic make-up of a hybrid cell, tissue or plant. The invention thus provides tomato plant cells that have a genetic complement in accordance with the tomato plant cells disclosed herein, and plants, seeds and plants containing such cells. Plant genetic complements may be assessed by genetic marker profiles, and by the expression of phenotypic traits that are characteristic of the expression of the genetic complement, e.g., gene expression profiles, gene product expression profiles and isozyme typing profiles. It is understood that a plant of the invention or a first generation progeny thereof could be identified by any of the many well-known techniques such as, for example, Simple Sequence Length Polymorphisms (SSLPs), Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNAs (RAPDs), DNA Amplification Fingerprinting (DAF), Sequence Characterized Amplified Regions (SCARs), Arbitrary Primed Polymerase Chain Reaction (AP-PCR), Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms (AFLPs) (see, e.g., EP 534 858), and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). In still yet another aspect, the present invention provides hybrid genetic complements, as represented by tomato plant cells, tissues, plants, and seeds, formed by the combination of a haploid genetic complement of a tomato plant of the invention with a haploid genetic complement of a second tomato plant, preferably, another, distinct tomato plant. In another aspect, the present invention provides a tomato plant regenerated from a tissue culture that comprises a hybrid genetic complement of this invention. In still yet another aspect, the invention provides a plant of a tomato variety that exhibits a combination of traits comprising a deeply toothed or cut (sps. towards base) margin of major leaflets, no fasciation of first flower of 2 nd or 3 rd inflorescence and resistance to Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV). Said tomato variety further exhibits at least one further trait selected from the group consisting of a moderately hairy pubescence on younger stems (USDA criterion), a late-season onset of leaflet rolling (USDA criterion). In another preferred embodiment, further characteristics are resistance to Bacterial Speck ( Pseudomonas tomato ), Fusarium wilt race 1 ( F. oxysporum f. lycopersici ), Fusarium wilt race 2 ( F. oxysporum f. lycopersici ), Verticillium wilt race 1 ( V. albo - atrum ), and Southern Root Knot Nematode ( M. incognia ). In certain embodiments, the combination of traits may be defined as controlled by genetic means for the expression of the combination of traits found in tomato variety NUN 00162. In still yet another aspect, the invention provides a method of determining the genotype of a plant of the invention comprising detecting in the genome (e.g., a sample of nucleic acids) of the plant at least a first polymorphism. The method may, in certain embodiments, comprise detecting a plurality of polymorphisms in the genome of the plant, for example by obtaining a sample of nucleic acid from a plant and detecting in said nucleic acids a plurality of polymorphisms. The method may further comprise storing the results of the step of detecting the plurality of polymorphisms on a computer readable medium. In certain embodiments, the present invention provides a method of producing tomatoes comprising: (a) obtaining a plant of the invention, wherein the plant has been cultivated to maturity, and (b) collecting tomatoes from the plant. The invention also provides for a food or feed product comprising or consisting of a plant part described herein preferably a tomato fruit or part thereof and/or an extract from a plant part described herein. The food or feed product may be fresh or processed, e.g., canned, steamed, boiled, fried, blanched and/or frozen, etc. Any embodiment discussed herein with respect to one aspect of the invention applies to other aspects of the invention as well, unless specifically noted. Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and any specific examples provided, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. DEFINITIONS In the description and tables herein, a number of terms are used. In order to provide a clear and consistent understanding of the specification and claims, the following definitions are provided: The term “about” is used to indicate that a value includes the standard deviation of error for the device or method being employed to determine the value. The use of the term “or” in the claims is used to mean “and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the alternatives are mutually exclusive, although the disclosure supports a definition that refers to only alternatives and to “and/or.” When used in conjunction with the word “comprising” or other open language in the claims, the words “a” and “an” denote “one or more” unless specifically noted. The terms “comprise,” “have” and “include” are open-ended linking verbs. Any forms or tenses of one or more of these verbs, such as “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes” and “including,” are also open-ended. For example, any method that “comprises,” “has” or “includes” one or more steps is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps and also covers other unlisted steps. Similarly, any plant that “comprises,” “has” or “includes” one or more traits is not limited to possessing only those one or more traits and covers other unlisted traits. The terms mentioned above also comprise the term “contain” which is limited to specific embodiments. Thus, one embodiment of the invention, when the terms “comprise,” “have” and “include” are used to describe a plant, part thereof or a process, refers to an embodiment wherein the limiting term “contain” is used. “Tomato” refers herein to plants of the species Solanum lycopersicum. “Cultivated tomato” refers to plants of Solanum lycopersicum , i.e. varieties, breeding lines or cultivars of the species Solanum lycopersicum , cultivated by humans and having good agronomic characteristics; preferably such plants are not “wild plants”, i.e. plants which generally have much poorer yields and poorer agronomic characteristics than cultivated plants and e.g. grow naturally in wild populations. “Wild plants” include for example ecotypes, PI (Plant Introduction) lines, landraces or wild accessions or wild relatives of a species. “USDA descriptors” are the plant variety descriptors described for tomato in the “Objective description of Variety Tomato Solanum lycopersicum ”, ST-470-55 (as published by U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Science and Technology, Plant Variety Protection Office, Beltsville, Md. 20705 (available on the world wide web at ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/) and which can be downloaded from the world wide web at ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/getfile?dDocName=STELDEV3003738. “UPOV descriptors” are the plant variety descriptors described for tomato in the “Guidelines for the Conduct of Tests for Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability, TG/44/10 (Geneva 2001), as published by UPOV (International Union for the Protection of New Varieties and Plants, available on the world wide web at upov.int) and which can be downloaded from the world wide web at upov.int/en/publications/tg-rom/tg044/tg — 44 — 10.pdf and is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. “RHS” refers to the Royal Horticultural Society of England which publishes an official botanical color chart quantitatively identifying colors according to a defined numbering system. The chart may be purchased from Royal Horticulture Society Enterprise Ltd RHS Garden; Wisley, Woking; Surrey GU236QB, UK, e.g., the RHS colour chart: 2007 (The Royal Horticultural Society, charity No: 222879, PO Box 313 London SW1P2PE; sold by, e.g., TORSO-VERLAG, Obere Grüben 8-D-97877 Wertheim, Article-No.: Art62-00008 EAN-Nr.: 4250193402112). “Genotype” refers to the genetic composition of a cell or organism. “Phenotype” refers to the detectable characteristics of a cell or organism, which characteristics are the manifestation of gene expression. As used herein, the term “plant” includes the whole plant or any parts or derivatives thereof, preferably having the same genetic makeup as the plant from which it is obtained, such as plant organs (e.g. harvested or non-harvested tomato fruits), plant cells, plant protoplasts, plant cell and/or tissue cultures from which whole plants can be regenerated, plant calli, plant cell clumps, plant transplants, seedlings, hypocotyl, cotyledon, plant cells that are intact in plants, plant clones or micropropagations, or parts of plants (e.g. harvested tissues or organs), such as plant cuttings, vegetative propagations, embryos, pollen, ovules, flowers, leaves, seeds, clonally propagated plants, roots, stems, root tips, grafts, parts of any of these and the like. Also any developmental stage is included, such as seedlings, cuttings prior or after rooting, mature plants or leaves. “Harvested plant material” refers herein to plant parts (e.g. a fruit detached from the whole plant) which have been collected for further storage and/or further use. “Harvested seeds” refers to seeds harvested from a line or variety, e.g. produced after self-fertilization or cross-fertilization and collected. “Rootstock” or “stock” refers to the plant selected for its roots, in particular for the resistance of the roots to diseases or stress (e.g. heat, cold, salinity etc). Normally the quality of the fruit of the plant providing the rootstock is less important. “Scion” refers to a part of the plant that is attached to the rootstock. This plant is selected for its stems, leaves, flowers, or fruits. The scion contains the desired genes to be duplicated in future production by the stock/scion plant and may produce the desired tomato fruit. “Stock/scion” plant refers to a tomato plant comprising a rootstock from one plant grafted to a scion from another plant. “Grafting” refers to attaching tissue from one plant to another plant so that the vascular tissues of the two tissues join together. Grafting may be done using methods known in the art like: Tongue Approach/Approach Graft, 2) Hole insertion/Terminal/Top Insertion Graft, 3) One Cotyledon/Slant/Splice/Tube Graft and 4) Cleft/Side Insertion Graft “Distinguishing characteristics” or “distinguishing morphological and/or physiological characteristics” refers herein the characteristics which are distinguishing between ENHANCER and other tomato varieties, such as Multifort, when grown under the same environmental conditions, especially the following characteristics: 1) leaflet length; 2) leaflet width; 3) type of inflorescence; 4) number of flowers in inflorescence; 5) grams weight of mature fruit; 6) length of the mature fruit (stem axis); or 7) diameter of fruit at widest point In one aspect, the distinguishing characteristics further include at least one, two, three or more (or all) of the characteristics listed in Table 1. Thus, a tomato plant “comprising the distinguishing characteristics of ENHANCER”, refers herein to a tomato plant which does not differ significantly from ENHANCER in characteristics 1) to 4) above. In a further aspect the tomato plant further does not differ significantly from ENHANCER in one or more, or all characteristics 5) to 7) as mentioned above. In yet a further aspect the tomato plant further does not differ in at least one, two, three, four, five or six characteristics selected from the characteristics listed in Table 1. A plant having “(essentially) all the physiological and morphological characteristics” means a plant having essentially all or all the physiological and morphological characteristics when grown under the same environmental conditions of the plant of ENHANCER from which it was derived, e.g. the progenitor plant, the parent, the recurrent parent, the plant used for tissue- or cell culture, etc. The skilled person will understand that a comparison between tomato varieties should occur when said varieties are grown under the same environmental conditions. For example, the plant may have all characteristics mentioned in Table 1. In certain embodiments, the plant having “essentially all the physiological and morphological characteristics” are plants having all the physiological and morphological characteristics, except for certain characteristics, such as one, two or three, mentioned, e.g. the characteristic(s) derived from a converted or introduced gene or trait and/or except for the characteristics which differ in an EDV. So, the plant may have all characteristics mentioned in Table 1, except for one, two or three characteristics of Table 1, in which the plant may thus differ. A plant having one or more or all “essential physiological and/or morphological characteristics” or one or more “distinguishing characteristics” (such as one, two, three, four or five) refers to a plant having (or retaining) one or more, or all, or retaining all except one, two or three of the distinguishing characteristics mentioned in Table 1 when grown under the same environmental conditions that distinguish ENHANCER from most similar variety MULTIFORT such distinguishing characteristics being selected from (but not limited to): a deeply toothed or cut (sps. towards base) margin of major leaflets (USDA criterion), no fasciation of first flower of 2 nd or 3 rd inflorescence (USDA criterion) and resistance to Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) (USDA criterion). The physiological and/or morphological characteristics mentioned above are commonly evaluated at significance levels of 1%, 5%, 8% or 10% significance level, when measured under the same environmental conditions. For example, a progeny plant of ENHANCER may have one or more (or all, or all except one, two or three) of the essential physiological and/or morphological characteristics of ENHANCER listed in Table 1, or one or more or all (or all except one, two or three) of the distinguishing characteristics of ENHANCER listed in Table 1 and above, as determined at the 1% or 5% significance level when grown under the same environmental conditions. As used herein, the term “variety” or “cultivar” means a plant grouping within a single botanical taxon of the lowest known rank, which grouping, irrespective of whether the conditions for the grant of a breeder's right are fully met, can be defined by the expression of the characteristics resulting from a given genotype or combination of genotypes, distinguished from any other plant grouping by the expression of at least one of the said characteristics and considered as a unit with regard to its suitability for being propagated unchanged. The terms “gene converted” or “conversion plant” in this context refer to tomato plants which are often developed by backcrossing wherein essentially all of the desired morphological and physiological characteristics of parent are recovered in addition to the one or more genes transferred into the parent via the backcrossing technique or via genetic engineering. Likewise a “Single Locus Converted (Conversion) Plant” refers to plants which are often developed by plant breeding techniques comprising or consisting of backcrossing, wherein essentially all of the desired morphological and physiological characteristics of a tomato variety are recovered in addition to the characteristics of the single locus having been transferred into the variety via, e.g., the backcrossing technique and/or by genetic transformation. Likewise, a double loci converted plant/a triple loci converted plant refers to plants having essentially all of the desired morphological and physiological characteristics of given variety, expect that at two or three loci, respectively, it contains the genetic material (e.g., an allele) from a different variety. A variety is referred to as an “Essentially Derived Variety” (EDV) i.e., shall be deemed to be essentially derived from another variety, “the initial variety” when (i) it is predominantly derived from the initial variety, or from a variety that is itself predominantly derived from the initial variety, while retaining the expression of the essential characteristics that result from the genotype or combination of genotypes of the initial variety; (ii) it is clearly distinguishable from the initial variety; and (iii) except for the differences which result from the act of derivation, it conforms to the initial variety in the expression of the essential characteristics that result from the genotype or combination of genotypes of the initial variety. Thus, an EDV may be obtained for example by the selection of a natural or induced mutant, or of a somaclonal variant, the selection of a variant individual from plants of the initial variety, backcrossing, or transformation by genetic engineering. In one embodiment, an EDV is a gene converted plant. “Plant line” is for example a breeding line which can be used to develop one or more varieties. “Hybrid variety” or “F1 hybrid” refers to the seeds of the first generation progeny of the cross of two non-isogenic plants. For example, the female parent is pollinated with pollen of the male parent to produce hybrid (F1) seeds on the female parent. “Progeny” as used herein refers to plants derived from a plant designated ENHANCER. Progeny may be derived by regeneration of cell culture or tissue culture or parts of a plant designated ENHANCER or selfing of a plant designated ENHANCER or by producing seeds of a plant designated ENHANCER. In further embodiments, progeny may also encompass plants derived from crossing of at least one plant designated ENHANCER with another tomato plant of the same or another variety or (breeding) line, or with a wild tomato plant, backcrossing, inserting of a locus into a plant or selecting a plant comprising a mutation or selecting a variant. A progeny is, e.g., a first generation progeny, i.e. the progeny is directly derived from, obtained from, obtainable from or derivable from the parent plant by, e.g., traditional breeding methods (selfing and/or crossing) or regeneration. However, the term “progeny” generally encompasses further generations such as second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh or more generations, i.e., generations of plants which are derived from, obtained from, obtainable from or derivable from the former generation by, e.g., traditional breeding methods, regeneration or genetic transformation techniques. For example, a second generation progeny can be produced from a first generation progeny by any of the methods mentioned above. Especially progeny of ENHANCER which are EDVs or which retain all (or all except 1, 2 or 3) physiological and/or morphological characteristics of ENHANCER listed in Table 1, or which retain all (or all except 1, 2, or 3) of the distinguishing characteristics of ENHANCER described elsewhere herein and in Table 1, are encompassed herein. The term “traditional breeding techniques” encompasses herein crossing, selfing, selection, double haploid production, embryo rescue, protoplast fusion, marker assisted selection, mutation breeding etc. as known to the breeder (i.e. methods other than genetic modification/transformation/transgenic methods), by which, for example, a genetically heritable trait can be transferred from one tomato line or variety to another. “Crossing” refers to the mating of two parent plants. The term encompasses “cross-pollination” and “selfing”. “Cross-pollination” refers to the fertilization by the union of two gametes from different plants. “Backcrossing” is a traditional breeding technique used to introduce a trait into a plant line or variety. The plant containing the trait is called the donor plant and the plant into which the trait is transferred is called the recurrent parent. An initial cross is made between the donor parent and the recurrent parent to produce progeny plants. Progeny plants which have the trait are then crossed to the recurrent parent. After several generations of backcrossing and/or selfing the recurrent parent comprises the trait of the donor. The plant generated in this way may be referred to as a “single trait converted plant”. “Selfing” refers to self-pollination of a plant, i.e., the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of the same plant. “Regeneration” refers to the development of a plant from cell culture or tissue culture or vegetative propagation. “Vegetative propagation”, “vegetative reproduction” or “clonal propagation” are used interchangeably herein and mean the method of taking part of a plant and allowing that plant part to form at least roots where plant part is, e.g., defined as or derived from (e.g. by cutting of) leaf, pollen, embryo, cotyledon, hypocotyl, cells, protoplasts, meristematic cell, root, root tip, pistil, anther, flower, shoot tip, shoot, stem, petiole, etc. When a whole plant is regenerated by vegetative propagation, it is also referred to as a vegetative propagation. “Locus” (plural loci) refers to the specific location of a gene or DNA sequence on a chromosome. A locus may confer a specific trait. “Linkage” refers to a phenomenon wherein alleles on the same chromosome tend to segregate together more often than expected by chance if their transmission was independent. “Marker” refers to a readily detectable phenotype, preferably inherited in codominant fashion (both alleles at a locus in a diploid heterozygote are readily detectable), with no environmental variance component, i.e., a heritability of 1. “Allele” refers to one or more alternative forms of a gene locus. All of these loci relate to one trait. Sometimes, different alleles can result in different observable phenotypic traits, such as different pigmentation. However, many variations at the genetic level result in little or no observable variation. If a multicellular organism has two sets of chromosomes, i.e. diploid, these chromosomes are referred to as homologous chromosomes. Diploid organisms have one copy of each gene (and therefore one allele) on each chromosome. If both alleles are the same, they are homozygotes. If the alleles are different, they are heterozygotes. As used herein, the terms “resistance” and “tolerance” are used interchangeably to describe plants that show no symptoms to a specified biotic pest, pathogen, abiotic influence or environmental condition. These terms are also used to describe plants showing some symptoms but that are still able to produce marketable product with an acceptable yield. Some plants that are referred to as resistant or tolerant are only so in the sense that they may still produce a crop, even though the plants are stunted and the yield is reduced. “Tissue Culture” refers to a composition comprising isolated cells of the same or a different type or a collection of such cells organized into parts of a plant. “Transgene” or “chimeric gene” refers to a genetic locus comprising a DNA sequence which has been introduced into the genome of a tomato plant by transformation. A plant comprising a transgene stably integrated into its genome is referred to as “transgenic plant”. “Haploid” refers to a cell or organism having one set of the two sets of chromosomes in a diploid. “Diploid” refers to a cell or organism having two sets of chromosomes. “Polyploid” refers to a cell or organism having three or more complete sets of chromosomes. “Triploid” refers to a cell or organism having three sets of chromosomes. “Tetraploid” refers to a cell or organism having four sets of chromosomes. “Average” refers herein to the arithmetic mean. The term “mean” refers to the arithmetic mean of several measurements. The skilled person understands that the appearance of a plant depends to some extent on the growing conditions of said plant. Thus, the skilled person will know typical growing conditions for tomato described herein. The mean, if not indicated otherwise within this application, refers to the arithmetic mean of measurements on at least 10 different, randomly selected plants of a variety or line. “Substantially equivalent” refers to a characteristic that, when compared, does not show a statistically significant difference (e.g., p=0.05) from the mean. A progeny plant may comprise the distinguishing characteristics 1 to 4 or 1 to 7 of ENHANCER; and/or have essentially all physiological and morphological characteristics of the variety designated ENHANCER when grown under the same environmental conditions. An “Essentially Derived Variety” (EDV) shall be deemed to be essentially derived from another variety, “the initial variety”, under the following circumstances: (i) it is predominantly derived from the initial variety, or from a variety that is itself predominantly derived from the initial variety, while retaining the expression of essentially all characteristics that result from the genotype or combination of genotypes of the initial variety; and (ii) it is clearly distinguishable from the initial variety (e.g., one, one or more, two, two or more, three, three or more characteristics are different from the initial variety); and (iii) except for the differences which result from the act of derivation, it conforms to the initial variety in the expression of the essential characteristics that result from the genotype or combination of genotypes of the initial variety. Thus, an EDV may be obtained for example by the selection of a natural or induced mutant, or of a somaclonal variant, the selection of a variant individual from plants of the initial variety, backcrossing, or transformation by genetic engineering. Such a variant may be selected at any time, e.g. in the field or greenhouse, during breeding, during or after in vitro culture of cells or tissues, during regeneration of plants, etc. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention provides methods and compositions relating to plants, plant parts, seeds and progenies of tomato variety ENHANCER. Variety ENHANCER is most similar to the commercially available variety Multifort. However, Enhancer differs from Multifort in one or more, e.g., at least two, at least three, at least four, or more, optionally all morphological and/or physiological characteristics listed in the following (see USDA criteria and also Table 1), when grown under the same environmental conditions: Enhancer has a leaflet length that is at least about 12%, or preferably 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, or even about 22.5% smaller than the leaflet length of Multifort; Enhancer has a leaflet width that is at least about 7%, or preferably 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, or even about 13.6% smaller than the leaflet width of Multifort; Enhancer has a simple type of inflorescence, whereas Multifort has a forked type of inflorescence; Enhancer has a number of flowers in inflorescence that is at least about 30%, or preferably 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, or even about 39.6% smaller than the number of flowers in inflorescence of Multifort; Enhancer has a weight of mature fruit that is at least about 50%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, 105%, or even about 109.4% heavier than the weight of mature fruit of Multifort; Enhancer has a length of mature fruit (stem axis) that is at least about 10%, or preferably 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, or even about 18% bigger than the length of mature fruit of Multifort; Enhancer has a diameter of fruit at widest point that is at least about 15%, or preferably 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, or even about 24.4% bigger than the diameter of fruit at widest point of Multifort; Enhancer has a greenish-orange fruit color when fully ripe, e.g. RHS Yellow-Orange 22A, whereas Multifort has a greenish-yellow fruit color, e.g. RHS Greyed-Yellow 160A; Enhancer has a pink flesh color when fully ripe, whereas Multifort has a yellow flesh color when fully ripe. Development of ENHANCER The hybrid ENHANCER was developed from a cross between a male that is a wild tomato ( Solanum habrochaites ) and a female proprietary inbred line of Nunhems that is a normal tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum ), the F1 hybrid between these two is Enhancer. The male parent brings to the hybrid a strong root system and the possibility to bear fruits for long time and to have many clusters on the vine with good size and quality, the female brings to the hybrid a rootstock with resistance to soil diseases. The seeds of ENHANCER can be grown to produce hybrid plants and parts thereof (e.g. rootstock or tomato fruit). The hybrid ENHANCER can be propagated by seeds or vegetative. The hybrid variety is uniform and genetically stable. This has been established through evaluation of horticultural characteristics. Several hybrid seed production events resulted in no observable deviation in genetic stability. Coupled with the confirmation of genetic stability of the female and male parents the Applicant concluded that ENHANCER is uniform and stable. A rootstock of the hybrid ENHANCER with a grafted scion result in a very strong plant with a strong root system, good soil born disease resistance and a good fruit quality for long period of time. MULTIFORT is considered to be the most similar variety to ENHANCER. MULTIFORT is a commercial variety from Paramount Seeds Inc. In Table 1 a comparison between ENHANCER and MULTIFORT is shown based on a trial in the USA. Trial location I: Acampo, Calif., USA (coordinates: 38° 192873″N 121° 232637″W). Transplanting date: Jul. 3, 2013. Trial period July-September 2013. Two replications of 50 plants each, from which 15 plants or plant parts were randomly selected, were used to measure characteristics. In Table 1 the USDA descriptors of ENHANCER (this application) and reference MULTIFORT (commercial variety) are listed. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a plant having the physiological and morphological characteristics of tomato variety ENHANCER. A description of the physiological and morphological characteristics of tomato variety ENHANCER is presented in Table 1. TABLE 1 Comparison between ENHANCER and MULTIFORT ENHANCER MULTIFORT 1. Seedling Anthocyanin in hypocotyl 2 2 1 = absent, 2 = present habit of 3-4 week old seedling 1 1 1 = normal, 2 = compact 2. Mature plant CM Height NA NA Growth 1 1 1 = indeterminate, 2 = determinate Form 1 1 1 = lax, open, 2 = normal, 3 = compact, 4 = dwarf, 5 = brachytic Size of canopy 3 3 1 = small, 2 = medium, 3 = large Habit 1 1 1 = sprawling (decumbent), 2 = semi-erect, 3 = erect (‘dwarf champion’) 3. Stem Branching 1 1 1 = sparse, 2 = intermediate, 3 = profuse Branching at cotyledonary or first leafy node 2 2 1 = present, 2 = absent pubescence of younger stems 3 3 1 = smooth (no long hairs), 2 = sparsely hairy (scattered long hairs), 3 = moderately hairy, 4 = densely hairy or wooly 4. Leaf Type 1 1 1 = tomato, 2 = potato margins of major leaflets 2 2 1 = nearly entire, 2 = shallowly toothed or scalloped, 3 = deeply toothed or cut, sps. Toward base marginal rolling or wiltiness 1 1 1 = absent, 2 = slight, 3 = moderate, 4 = strong onset of leaflet rolling na NA 1 = early-season, 2 = mid-season, 3 = late season surface of major leaflets 2 2 1 = smooth, 2 = rugose (bumpy or veiny) pubescence 3 3 1 = smooth (no long hairs), 2 = normal, 3 = hirsute, 4 = wooly 5. Inflorescence Type 1 2 1 = simple, 2 = forked, 3 = compound Number of flowers in inflorescence 7.6  12.6 Leafy or “running” inflorescences 1 1 1 = absent, 2 = occasional, 3 = frequent 6. Flower calyx 1 1 1 = normal, lobes awl-shaped, 2 = macrocalyx, lobes large, leaflike, 3 = fleshy calyx-lobes 1 1 1 = shorter the corolla, 2 = approx. equalling corolla, 3 = distinctly longer than corolla corolla color 1 1 1 = yellow, 2 = old gold, 3 = white or tan style pubescence 3 3 1 = absent, 2 = sparse, 3 = dense anthers 1 1 1 = all fused into tube, 2 = separateing into 2 or more groups at anthesis fasciation 1 1 1 = absent, 2 = occassionally present, 3 = frequently present 7. fruit typical fruit shape 3 3 shape of transverse section 1 1 shape of blossom end 2 2 shape of stem end 1 1 shape of pistil scar 1 1 abscission layer 1 1 1 = present (pedicellate), 2 = absent (jointless) point of detachment of fruit at harvest 1 1 1 = at pedicel joint, 2 = at calyx attachment mm length of mature fruit (stem axis) 23.47  19.9 MM diameter of fruit at widest point 24.65  19.8 G weight of mature fruit 8.9   4.25 No. of locules 1 1 1 = two, 2 = three, 3 = five or more fruit surface1 = smooth, 2 = slightly rough, 4 4 3 = moderately rough or ribbed, 4 = pubescent (fuzzy) fruit base color 2, RHS Greyed- 2, RHS Greyed- 1 = light green, 2 = light gray-green, 3 = apple or Green 193A Green 194C medium green, 4 = yellow green, 5 = dark green fruit pattern 3 (single stripe) 3 (single stripe) 1 = uniform green, 2 = green-shouldered, 3 = radial stripes on sides of fruit fruit color, full ripe 8, Greenish-Orange, 2, Greenish-Yellow, 8 = other color RHS Yellow-Orange RHS Greyed 22A Yellow 160A flesh color, full ripe 2 1 1 = yellow, 2 = pink, 3 = red/crimson, 4 = orange, 5 = other, specify flesh color NA 1 1 = uniform, 2 = with lighter and darker areas in walls locular gel color of table-ripe fruit 1 1 1 = green, 2 = yellow, 3 = red ripening 1 1 1 = blossom-to-stem end, 2 = uniform ripening 1 1 1 = inside out, 2 = uniformly, 3 = outside in stem scar size 1 1 1 = small, 2 = medium, 3 = large core 1 1 1 = coreless, 2 = present epidermis color 1 1 1 = colorless, 2 = yellow epidermis 1 1 1 = normal, 2 = easy-peel epidermis texture 1 1 1 = tender, 2 = average, 3 = tough 9. Disease and Pest Reaction 1 highly resistant, 2 intermediate resistance, 3 susceptible, 4 not determined Verticillium dahliae (Va and Vd) 1 1 Fusarium oxysporum F0 1 1 Fusarium oxysporum F1 1 1 Fusarium oxysporum F2 (Ex F3) 1 1 Tomato Mosaic Virus (Tm) 1 1 Tomato Spotted TSWV 1 Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis lycopersici 1 1 (For) Fulvia fulva (Ff) (ex Cladosporium fulvum ) 1 1 (Ce) Nematodes (Ne) 2 2 Pyrenochaeta lycopersici (Pl) or (Pyl) 2 2 10. Chemistry and composition of full-ripe fruits Soluble solids as ‘Brix’ 7.01   7.7 11. Phenology Fruiting season 1/NA** NA** 1 = long, 2 = medium, 3 = short, concentrated, 4 = very concentrated Relative maturity in areas tested 5/NA**  5** 1 = early, 2 = medium early, 3 = medium, 4 = medium late, 5 = late, 6 = variable 12. Adaptation Culture 2, 1 2, 1 1 = field, 2 = greenhouse Principle use 5, root stock 5, root stock 5 = other (specify) core 1 1 1 = coreless, 2 = present *These are typical values. Values may vary due to environment. Other values that are substantially equivalent are also within the scope of the invention. **Fruits do not ripen well. NA means data is not available. Breeding of Tomato Plants of the Invention One aspect of the current invention concerns methods for crossing a tomato variety provided herein with itself or a second plant and the seeds and plants produced by such methods. These methods can be used for propagation of a variety provided herein, or can be used to produce hybrid tomato seeds and the plants grown therefrom. Such hybrid seeds can be produced by crossing the parent varieties of the variety. The development of new varieties using one or more starting varieties is well known in the art. In accordance with the invention, novel varieties may be created by crossing a plant of the invention followed by multiple generations of breeding according to such well known methods. New varieties may be created by crossing with any second plant. In selecting such a second plant to cross for the purpose of developing novel varieties, it may be desired to choose those plants that either themselves exhibit one or more selected desirable characteristics or that exhibit the desired characteristic(s) when in hybrid combination. Once initial crosses have been made, inbreeding and selection take place to produce new varieties. For development of a uniform variety, often five or more generations of selfing and selection are involved. Uniform varieties of new varieties may also be developed by way of double-haploids. This technique allows the creation of true breeding varieties without the need for multiple generations of selfing and selection. In this manner, true breeding varieties can be produced in as little as one generation. Haploid embryos may be produced from microspores, pollen, anther cultures, or ovary cultures. The haploid embryos may then be doubled autonomously, or by chemical treatments (e.g. colchicine treatment). Alternatively, haploid embryos may be grown into haploid plants and treated to induce chromosome doubling. In either case, fertile homozygous plants are obtained. In accordance with the invention, any of such techniques may be used in connection with a plant of the invention and progeny thereof to achieve a homozygous variety. Backcrossing can also be used to improve an inbred plant. Backcrossing transfers one or more heritable traits from one inbred or non-inbred source to an inbred that lacks those traits. The exact backcrossing protocol will depend on the characteristic(s) or trait(s) being altered to determine an appropriate testing protocol. When the term variety ENHANCER is used in the context of the present invention, this also includes plants modified to include at least a first desired heritable trait such as one, two or three desired heritable trait(s). This can be accomplished, for example, by first crossing a superior inbred (recurrent parent) to a donor inbred (non-recurrent parent), which carries the appropriate genetic information (e.g., an allele) at the locus or loci relevant to the trait in question. The progeny of this cross are then mated back to the recurrent parent followed by selection in the resultant progeny (first backcross generation, or BC1) for the desired trait to be transferred from the non-recurrent parent. After five or more backcross generations with selection for the desired trait, the progeny are heterozygous at loci controlling the characteristic being transferred, but are like the superior parent for most or almost all other loci. The last backcross generation would be selfed to give pure breeding progeny for the trait being transferred. The parental tomato plant which contributes the desired characteristic or characteristics is termed the non-recurrent parent because it can be used one time in the backcross protocol and therefore need not recur. The parental tomato plant to which the locus or loci from the non-recurrent parent are transferred is known as the recurrent parent as it is used for several rounds in the backcrossing protocol. Many single locus traits have been identified that are not regularly selected for in the development of a new inbred but that can be improved by backcrossing techniques. Single locus traits may or may not be transgenic; examples of these traits include, but are not limited to, male sterility, herbicide resistance, resistance to bacterial, fungal, or viral disease, insect resistance, restoration of male fertility, modified fatty acid or carbohydrate metabolism, and enhanced nutritional quality. These comprise genes generally inherited through the nucleus. Direct selection or screening may be applied where the single locus (e.g. allele) acts in a dominant fashion. For example, when selecting for a dominant allele providing resistance to a bacterial disease, the progeny of the initial cross can be inoculated with bacteria prior to the backcrossing. The inoculation then eliminates those plants which do not have the resistance, and only those plants which have the resistance allele are used in the subsequent backcross. This process is then repeated for all additional backcross generations. Although backcrossing methods are simplified when the characteristic being transferred is a dominant allele, recessive, co-dominant and quantitative alleles may also be transferred. In this instance, it may be necessary to introduce a test of the progeny to determine if the desired locus has been successfully transferred. In the case where the non-recurrent variety was not homozygous, the F1 progeny would not be equivalent. F1 plants having the desired genotype at the locus of interest could be phenotypically selected if the corresponding trait was phenotypically detectable in a heterozygous or hemizygous state. In the case where a recessive allele is to be transferred and the corresponding trait is not phenotypically detectable in the heterozygous of hemizygous state, the resultant progeny can be selfed, or crossed back to the donor to create a segregating population for selection purposes. Non-phenotypic tests may also be employed. Selected progeny from the segregating population can then be crossed to the recurrent parent to make the first backcross generation (BC1). Molecular markers may also be used to aid in the identification of the plants containing both a desired trait and having recovered a high percentage of the recurrent parent's genetic complement. Selection of tomato plants for breeding is not necessarily dependent on the phenotype of a plant and instead can be based on genetic investigations. For example, one can utilize a suitable genetic marker which is closely genetically linked to a trait of interest. One of these markers can be used to identify the presence or absence of a trait in the offspring of a particular cross, and can be used in selection of progeny for continued breeding. This technique is commonly referred to as marker assisted selection. Any other type of genetic marker or other assay that is able to identify the relative presence or absence of a trait of interest in a plant can also be useful for breeding purposes. Procedures for marker assisted selection applicable to the breeding of tomato are well known in the art. Such methods will be of particular utility in the case of recessive traits and variable phenotypes, or where conventional assays may be more expensive, time consuming or otherwise disadvantageous. Types of genetic markers which could be used in accordance with the invention include, but are not necessarily limited to, Simple Sequence Length Polymorphisms (SSLPs), Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR), Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNAs (RAPDs), DNA Amplification Fingerprinting (DAF), Sequence Characterized Amplified Regions (SCARs), Arbitrary Primed Polymerase Chain Reaction (AP-PCR), Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms (AFLPs), and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). Tomato varieties can also be developed from more than two parents. The technique, known as modified backcrossing, uses different recurrent parents during the backcrossing. Modified backcrossing may be used to replace the original recurrent parent with a variety having certain more desirable characteristics or multiple parents may be used to obtain different desirable characteristics from each. Tomatoes are grown for use as rootstocks or scions. Typically, different types of tomatoes are grafted to enhance disease resistance, which is usually conferred by the rootstock, while retaining the horticultural qualities usually conferred by the scion. It is not uncommon for grafting to occur between Solanum lycopersicum varieties and related Solanum species. Methods of grafting and vegetative propagation are well-known in the art. The varieties and varieties of the present invention are particularly well suited for the development of new varieties or varieties based on the elite nature of the genetic background of the variety. In selecting a second plant to cross with ENHANCER for the purpose of developing novel tomato varieties, it will typically be preferred to choose those plants that either themselves exhibit one or more selected desirable characteristics or that exhibit the desired characteristic(s) when in hybrid combination. Examples of desirable characteristics may include, but are not limited to herbicide tolerance, pathogen resistance (e.g., insect resistance, nematode resistance, resistance to bacterial, fungal, and viral disease), male fertility, improved harvest characteristics, enhanced nutritional quality, increased antioxidant content, improved processing characteristics, high yield, improved characteristics related to the fruit flavor, texture, size, shape, durability, shelf life, and yield, improved vine habit, increased soluble solids content, uniform ripening, delayed or early ripening, reduced blossom end scar size, seedling vigor, adaptability for soil conditions, and adaptability for climate conditions. Qualities that may be desirable in a processing tomato are not necessarily those that would be desirable in a fresh market tomato; thus, the selection process for desirable traits for each specific end use may be different. For example, certain features, such as solids content, and firm fruit to facilitate mechanical harvesting are more desirable in the development of processing tomatoes; whereas, external features such as intensity and uniformity of fruit color, unblemished fruit, and uniform fruit size are typically more important to the development of a fresh market product that will have greater retailer or consumer appeal. Of course, certain traits, such as disease and pest resistance, high yield, and concentrated fruit set are of interest in any type of tomato variety or variety. In one aspect the invention relates to a tomato plant comprising a rootstock of ENHANCER, seeds of which having been deposited under NCIMB Accession Number 42423; and a scion of another tomato plant. In a further aspect the invention relates to a method of producing a tomato plant comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a rootstock from the plant designated ENHANCER; (b) obtaining a scion from a tomato plant; (c) connection the scion to the rootstock. Optionally, the rootstock/scion plant can be grown in a plant nursery until the vascular tissue of both the rootstock and scion are joined. In one aspect, the invention relates to a plant obtained by this method. In another aspect the invention relates to an Essentially Derived Variety of ENHANCER, having one, two, or three physiological and/or morphological characteristics which are different from those of ENHANCER and which otherwise has all the physiological and morphological characteristics of ENHANCER, wherein a representative sample of seeds of ENHANCER has been deposited under NCIMB Accession Number 42423. In still another aspect the invention relates to a tomato plant, or a part thereof, which does not significantly differ from ENHANCER in any of the distinguishing characteristics consisting of 1) leaflet length; 2) leaflet width; 3) type of inflorescence; 4) number of flowers in inflorescence; 5) grams weight of mature fruit; 6) length of the mature fruit (stem axis); or 7) diameter of fruit at widest point. In another embodiment, the plant does not significantly differ from ENHANCER in any of the characteristics of Table 1. Plants of the Invention Derived by Genetic Engineering Many useful traits that can be introduced by backcrossing, as well as directly into a plant, are those that are introduced by genetic transformation techniques. Genetic transformation may therefore be used to insert a selected transgene into the tomato variety of the invention or may, alternatively, be used for the preparation of varieties containing transgenes that can be subsequently transferred to the variety of interest by crossing. Methods for the transformation of plants, including tomato, are well known to those of skill in the art. Techniques which may be employed for the genetic transformation of tomato include, but are not limited to, electroporation, microprojectile bombardment, Agrobacterium -mediated transformation, pollen-mediated transformation, and direct DNA uptake by protoplasts. To effect transformation by electroporation, one may employ either friable tissues, such as a suspension culture of cells or embryogenic callus or alternatively one may transform immature embryos or other organized tissue directly. In this technique, one would partially degrade the cell walls of the chosen cells by exposing them to pectin-degrading enzymes (pectolyases) or mechanically wound tissues in a controlled manner. To effect pollen-mediated transformation, one may apply pollen pretreated with DNA to the female reproduction parts of tomato plants for pollination. A pollen-mediated method for the transformation of tomato is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,806,399. A particularly efficient method for delivering transforming DNA segments to plant cells is microprojectile bombardment. In this method, particles are coated with nucleic acids and delivered into cells by a propelling force. Exemplary particles include those comprised of tungsten, platinum, and preferably, gold. For the bombardment, cells in suspension are concentrated on filters or solid culture medium. Alternatively, immature embryos or other target cells may be arranged on solid culture medium. The cells to be bombarded are positioned at an appropriate distance below the macroprojectile stopping plate. An illustrative embodiment of a method for delivering DNA into plant cells by acceleration is the BIOLISTICS Particle Delivery System, which can be used to propel particles coated with DNA or cells through a screen, such as a stainless steel or Nytex screen, onto a surface covered with target tomato cells. The screen disperses the particles so that they are not delivered to the recipient cells in large aggregates. It is believed that a screen intervening between the projectile apparatus and the cells to be bombarded reduces the size of projectiles aggregate and may contribute to a higher frequency of transformation by reducing the damage inflicted on the recipient cells by projectiles that are too large. Microprojectile bombardment techniques are widely applicable, and may be used to transform virtually any plant species. Agrobacterium -mediated transfer is another widely applicable system for introducing gene loci into plant cells. An advantage of the technique is that DNA can be introduced into whole plant tissues, thereby bypassing the need for regeneration of an intact plant from a protoplast. Modern Agrobacterium transformation vectors are capable of replication in E. coli as well as Agrobacterium , allowing for convenient manipulations. Moreover, recent technological advances in vectors for Agrobacterium -mediated gene transfer have improved the arrangement of genes and restriction sites in the vectors to facilitate the construction of vectors capable of expressing various polypeptide coding genes. The vectors described have convenient multi-linker regions flanked by a promoter and a polyadenylation site for direct expression of inserted polypeptide coding genes. Additionally, Agrobacterium containing both armed and disarmed Ti genes can be used for transformation. In those plant species where Agrobacterium -mediated transformation is efficient, it is the method of choice because of the facile and defined nature of the gene locus transfer. The use of Agrobacterium -mediated plant integrating vectors to introduce DNA into plant cells is well known in the art (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,563,055). Transformation of plant protoplasts also can be achieved using methods based on calcium phosphate precipitation, polyethylene glycol treatment, electroporation, and combinations of these treatments which are well known in the art. Transformation of plants and expression of foreign genetic elements is exemplified in Choi et al. (1994), and Ellul et al. (2003). A number of promoters have utility for plant gene expression for any gene of interest including but not limited to selectable markers, scoreable markers, genes for pest tolerance, disease resistance, nutritional enhancements and any other gene of agronomic interest. Examples of constitutive promoters useful for tomato plant gene expression include, but are not limited to, the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) P-35S promoter, which confers constitutive, high-level expression in most plant tissues, including monocots; a tandemly, partially duplicated version of the CaMV 35S promoter, the enhanced 35S promoter (P-e35S) the nopaline synthase promoter, the octopine synthase promoter; and the figwort mosaic virus (P-FMV) promoter (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,619) and an enhanced version of the FMV promoter (P-eFMV) where the promoter sequence of P-FMV is duplicated in tandem, the cauliflower mosaic virus 19S promoter, a sugarcane bacilliform virus promoter, a commelina yellow mottle virus promoter, and other plant DNA virus promoters known to express in plant cells. A variety of plant gene promoters that are regulated in response to environmental, hormonal, chemical, and/or developmental signals can be used for expression of an operably linked gene in plant cells, including promoters regulated by (1) heat, (2) light (e.g., pea rbcS-3A promoter; maize rbcS promoter; or chlorophyll a/b-binding protein promoter), (3) hormones, such as abscisic acid, (4) wounding; or (5) chemicals such as methyl jasmonate, salicylic acid, or Safener. It may also be advantageous to employ organ-specific promoters. Exemplary nucleic acids which may be introduced to the tomato varieties of this invention include, for example, DNA sequences or genes from another species, or even genes or sequences which originate with or are present in the same species, but are incorporated into recipient cells by genetic engineering methods rather than classical reproduction or breeding techniques. However, the term “exogenous” is also intended to refer to genes that are not normally present in the cell being transformed, or perhaps simply not present in the form, structure, etc., as found in the transforming DNA segment or gene, or genes which are normally present and that one desires to express in a manner that differs from the natural expression pattern, e.g., to over-express. Thus, the term “exogenous” gene or DNA is intended to refer to any gene or DNA segment that is introduced into a recipient cell, regardless of whether a similar gene may already be present in such a cell. The type of DNA included in the exogenous DNA can include DNA which is already present in the plant cell, DNA from another plant, DNA from a different organism, or a DNA generated externally, such as a DNA sequence containing an antisense message of a gene, or a DNA sequence encoding a synthetic or modified version of a gene. Many hundreds if not thousands of different genes are known and could potentially be introduced into a tomato plant according to the invention. Non-limiting examples of particular genes and corresponding phenotypes one may choose to introduce into a tomato plant include one or more genes for insect tolerance, such as a Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.) gene, pest tolerance such as genes for fungal disease control, herbicide tolerance such as genes conferring glyphosate tolerance, and genes for quality improvements such as yield, nutritional enhancements, environmental or stress tolerances, or any desirable changes in plant physiology, growth, development, morphology or plant product(s). For example, structural genes would include any gene that confers insect tolerance including but not limited to a Bacillus insect control protein gene as described in WO 99/31248, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, U.S. Pat. No. 5,689,052, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, U.S. Pat. No. 5,500,365 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,880,275, herein incorporated by reference it their entirety. In another embodiment, the structural gene can confer tolerance to the herbicide glyphosate as conferred by genes including, but not limited to Agrobacterium strain CP4 glyphosate resistant EPSPS gene (aroA:CP4) as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,633,435, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, or glyphosate oxidoreductase gene (GOX) as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,463,175, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Alternatively, the DNA coding sequences can affect these phenotypes by encoding a non-translatable RNA molecule that causes the targeted inhibition of expression of an endogenous gene, for example via antisense- or cosuppression-mediated mechanisms. The RNA could also be a catalytic RNA molecule (e.g., a ribozyme) engineered to cleave a desired endogenous mRNA product. Thus, any gene which produces a protein or mRNA which expresses a phenotype or morphology change of interest is useful for the practice of the present invention. Deposit Information A total of 2500 seeds of the hybrid variety ENHANCER were deposited according to the Budapest Treaty by Nunhems B.V. on Jun. 19, 2015, at the NCIMB Ltd., Ferguson Building, Craibstone Estate, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9YA, United Kingdom (NCIMB). The deposit has been assigned Accession Number NCIMB 42423. A deposit of ENHANCER and of the male and female parent line is also maintained at Nunhems B.V. Access to the deposit will be available during the pendency of this application to persons determined by the Director of the U.S. Patent Office to be entitled thereto upon request. Subject to 37 C.F.R. §1.808(b), all restrictions imposed by the depositor on the availability to the public of the deposited material will be irrevocably removed upon the granting of the patent. The deposit will be maintained for a period of 30 years, or 5 years after the most recent request, or for the enforceable life of the patent whichever is longer, and will be replaced if it ever becomes nonviable during that period. Applicant does not waive any rights granted under this patent on this application or under the Plant Variety Protection Act (7 USC 2321 et seq.). Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be obvious that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the invention, as limited only by the scope of the appended claims. All references cited herein are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. REFERENCES The following references, to the extent that they provide exemplary procedural or other details supplementary to those set forth herein, are specifically incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. No. 5,463,175 U.S. Pat. No. 5,500,365 U.S. Pat. No. 5,563,055 U.S. Pat. No. 5,633,435 U.S. Pat. No. 5,689,052 U.S. Pat. No. 5,880,275 U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,619 U.S. Pat. No. 6,806,399 WO 99/31248 EP 0 534 858 Choi et al., Plant Cell Rep., 13: 344-348, 1994. Ellul et al., Theor. Appl. Genet., 107:462-469, 2003.
The invention provides a new and distinct hybrid variety of tomato, ENHANCER or NUN 00001 TOR which is especially useful as tomato rootstock.
2
This is a continuation, of application Ser. No. 591,729, filed June 30, 1975, now abandoned. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Various substituted amides, particularly N-substituted amides and substituted phenoxy amides, are known to be useful as insecticides, miticides, and herbicides. Typical insecticidal properties of such compounds are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 2,426,885 and its two continuations-in-part, U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,484,295 and 2,484,296. Herbicidal properties of such compounds are taught in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,272,844, 3,439,018, and 3,564,607, and Belgian Pat. No. 739,714. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to a novel class of substituted amides and to their use as miticides when used in a miticidally effective amount. More specifically, this invention relates to N-substituted-N-(1,1-disubstituted ethyl)-α-(substituted phenoxy)-α-alkoxyacetamides having the formula ##STR2## wherein X is selected from the group consisting of chlorine, fluorine, and trifluoromethyl; Y and Z are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, chlorine, and methyl; R 1 is either methyl or ethyl; R 2 and R 3 are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and methyl; and R 4 is either methyl or --C.tbd.CH. By "miticidally effective amount" is meant the amount of the herein disclosed miticidal compounds which when applied to the habitat of mites in any conventional manner will kill or substantially injure a significant portion of the population thereon. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The compounds of the present invention can be prepared by the following general method: ##STR3## Generally, a mole amount of the ester, a slight mole excess of the succinimide, and a few crystals of the peroxide are mixed in carbon tetrachloride and heated to reflux for an hour. The mixture is then cooled and filtered and the filtrate is evaporated to leave an oil. ##STR4## The potassium t-butoxide is first dissolved in t-butyl alcohol, followed by addition of the phenol and finally the ester, the latter two reactants approximately equal in molar quantity to the butoxide. In the ensuing exothermic reaction, the potassium bromide separates from the mixture which is subsequently poured into water and extracted with chloroform. Alternatively, the following reaction may be used: ##STR5## A solution of the phenol in tetrahydrofuran is added to a solution of sodium hydride and stirred. A solution of the ester is then added and the mixture is heated to reflux and cooled. The sodium bromide is removed by filtration and the filtrate is evaporated to leave an oil. Following either of these reactions, the ester is converted to an acid which is subsequently extracted, washed, and dried. The solvent is removed in a vacuum and the acid is recrystallized from cyclohexane. The acid is then dissolved in a suitable solvent, converted to the sodium salt, and then recovered from the solvent. ##STR6## This reaction is conducted according to the method of R. Adams and L. H. Ulich, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 42, 599 (1920). The product mixture is then filtered and the filtrate evaporated to leave a liquid. ##STR7## The acid chloride, dissolved in a suitable solvent, is added to a solution of both the disubstituted amine and the triethylamine. The mixture is subsequently washed and dried, and the solvent is evaporated to leave the product oil. The examples shown herein are illustrative of the method of preparation of the compounds of the invention. EXAMPLE I N-dimethylpropynyl-α-methoxy-α-(3,5-dichlorophenoxy)acetamide. (Compound No. 1 in Table I below) A mixture of 20.0 g (0.19 mole) methyl 2-methoxyacetate, 34.6 g (0.20 mole) N-bromosuccinimide and a few crystals of benzoyl peroxide in 200 ml carbon tetrachloride was heated to reflux. After an initial vigorous reaction, the mixture was heated for 1 hour, cooled, and filtered. The filtrate was evaporated at 15 mm pressure on a rotary evaporator to leave 34.0 g (98% yield) of an oil, n D 30 1.4694, identified by NMR analysis as methyl-α-bromo-α-methoxyacetate. Potassium t-butoxide, 24.7 g (0.22 mole), was dissolved in 250 ml t-butyl alcohol. The mixture was stirred for 15 minutes at room temperature. 3.6 g (0.22 mole) of 3,5-dichlorophenol was then added, followed by 40.4 g (0.22 mole) of methyl 2-bromo-2-methoxyacetate. The addition occurred at 35°-40° C. The reaction was exothermic with separation of potassium bromide. After 3 hours of stirring with no external heating, the mixture was poured into 600 ml water and the resulting mixture was extracted with two 150 ml portions of chloroform. The extracts were combined and washed with three 150 ml portions of saturated sodium chloride solution. The solution was then dried over magnesium sulfate and evaporated to leave 53.8 g of a liquid, n D 30 1.5244, identified by infrared spectroscopy as methyl-α-(3,5-dichlorophenoxy)-α-methoxyacetate. A solution of 53.8 g (0.20 mole) of the above liquid product in 50 ml ethanol was added slowly to a solution of 13.9 g (0.21 mole) of 85% KOH in 200 ml ethanol. The mixture was heated at 45° C for one-half hour, then cooled to room temperature and poured into 300 ml of water. The pH of the resulting mixture was adjusted to 2 with dilute HCl. An oil separated which was removed by two 150 ml extractions with chloroform. The chloroform extracts were combined, washed with three 150 ml portions of water and dried over magnesium sulfate. Removal of the solvent in vacuum left a solid, 40.9 g (81% crude yield) which was recrystallized from cyclohexane to give 3,5-dichlorophenoxymethoxyacetic acid, m.p. 79°-82° C. 25.1 g (0.10 mole) of the acid was dissolved in 75 ml anhydrous methanol. 28.6 g (0.13 mole) of a 25% solution of sodium methoxide in methanol was then added. After one-half hour, the solution was evaporated to give 26.1 g of sodium α-(3,5-dichlorophenoxy)-α-methoxyacetate. According to the method of Adams and Ulich, supra, 14.0 g (0.11 mole) of oxalyl chloride and 25 ml dry benzene were placed in a 300 ml flask fitted with a thermometer, a stirrer, and a reflux condenser. A 125 ml Erhlenmeyer flask containing 25.7 g (0.10 mole) of sodium 3,5-dichlorophenoxymethoxyacetate was attached to the flask with Gooch tubing. While the oxalyl chloride solution was stirred, the sodium salt was added in portions by tipping up the flask. After all the sodium salt had been added, the mixture was heated at 45° C for two hours and cooled. The mixture was filtered and the filtrate was evaporated to leave a liquid, 25.2 g (98.4% yield), identified by infrared spectroscopy as α-(3,5-dichlorophenoxy)-α-methoxyacetyl chloride. A solution of 4.3 g (0.052 mole) dimethylpropargylamine and 5.3 g (0.052 mole) triethylamine in 50 ml benzene was cooled to 10° C in an ice bath and a solution of 12.6 g (0.047 mole) 3,5-dichlorophenoxymethoxyacetyl chloride in 25 ml benzene was added slowly with stirring. After addition was complete, the cold bath was removed and the mixture was allowed to come to room temperature. The mixture was then washed, first with 100 ml water, followed by two 100 ml portions of 5% sodium carbonate solution. The mixture was then dried over magnesium sulfate. Evaporation of the solvent left 4.6 g (31% yield) of an oil, n D 30 1.5291, identified by NMR spectroscopy as N-dimethylpropynyl-α-methoxy-α-(3,5-dichlorophenoxy)acetamide. EXAMPLE II N-dimethylpropynyl-α-methoxy-α-(3,4,5-trichlorophenoxy) acetamide. (Compound No. 2 in Table I below) A solution of 50 g (0.25 mole) of 3,4,5-trichlorophenol in 75 ml tetrahydrofuran was added dropwise to a mixture of 6.0 g (0.25 mole) of sodium hydride in 75 ml tetrahydrofuran, with stirring under an argon atmosphere. At the conclusion of the phenol addition, the mixture was stirred for an additional half hour. A solution of 45.8 g (0.25 mole) of methyl 2-bromo-2-methoxyacetate (prepared according to the procedure of Example I) in 30 ml tetrahydrofuran was added to the above-mentioned sodium hydride-trichlorophenol mixture over a period of 15 minutes with stirring. The temperature rose to 46° C over this period. When the addition was complete, the mixture was heated at reflux for one-half hour, cooled, and filtered. The filtrate was evaporated to leave 44.4 g (59.3% yield) of an oil, n D 30 1.5428, identified by infrared spectroscopy as methyl-α-(3,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)-α-methoxyacetate. A solution of 35.2 g (0.12 mole) methyl-α-(3,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)-α-methoxyacetate in 50 ml ethanol was added slowly to a solution of 9.2 g (0.14 mole) 85% KOH in 150 ml 2B ethanol. The mixture was heated at 45° C for one-half hour, then cooled to room temperature and poured into 300 ml H 2 O. The pH of the resulting mixture was adjusted to 2 with dilute HCl. An oil separated which was removed by two 150 ml extractions with chloroform. The chloroform extracts were combined, washed with three 150 ml portions of water, and dried over magnesium sulfate. Removal of the solvent in vacuum left 22.9 g (66.8% crude yield) of a solid which was recrystallized from cyclohexane to give α-(3,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)-α-methoxyacetic acid, m.p. 101°-104° C, characterized by infrared spectroscopy. 20.0 g (0.07 mole) of the acid dissolved in 25 ml tetrahydrofuran was added dropwise to 1.9 g (0.08 mole) sodium hydride in 75 ml tetrahydrofuran. One half hour after addition was complete, the solution was evaporated to leave the sodium salt. This was added by portions to a solution of 8.9 g (0.07 mole) oxalyl chloride in 150 ml benzene to give 15.7 g (73.8% yield) of an oil, α-(3,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)-α-methoxyacetyl chloride. Due to its air sensitivity, 5.2 g (0.02 mole) of this compound was immediately dissolved in 25 ml benzene and added slowly to a solution of 1.7 g (0.02 mole) dimethylpropargylamine and 2.1 g (0.02 mole) triethylamine in 100 ml benzene, with stirring while the solution was being cooled to 10° C in an ice bath. After addition was complete the cold bath was removed and the mixture was allowed to come to room temperature. The mixture was then washed first with 100 ml water, followed by two 100 ml portions of 5% sodium carbonate solution. The organic phase was dried over magnesium sulfate, and the solvent was evaporated to give 5.4 g (77.1% yield) of a solid, which was recrystallized from hexane and characterized by infrared and NMR spectroscopy as in N-dimethylpropynyl-α-methoxy-α-(3,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)acetamide, m.p. 76°-80° C. Other compounds, such as those included in the following table, can be prepared in a manner analogous to that shown in the examples above, starting with the appropriate materials. The compounds in the table are representative of those embodied in the present invention. Compound numbers have been assigned to them for purposes of identification throughout the balance of this specification. TABLE I______________________________________COMPOUNDNUMBER COMPOUND______________________________________ ##STR8##2 ##STR9##3 ##STR10##4 ##STR11##5 ##STR12##6 ##STR13##7 ##STR14##8 ##STR15##9 ##STR16##______________________________________ Miticidal activity of selected compounds from the above Table I on the two-spotted mite [Tetranychus urticae (Koch)] was evaluated as follows: I. Plant Dip Assay Pinto bean plants (Phaseolus sp.), approximately 10 cm tall, are transplanted into sandy loam soil in 3-inch clay pots and thoroughly infested with two-spotted mites of mixed ages and sexes. Twenty-four hours later the infested plants are inverted and dipped for 2-3 seconds in 50--50 acetone-water solutions of the test chemicals. Treated plants are held in the greenhouse, and seven days later mortality is determined for both the adult mites and the nymphs hatching from eggs which were on the plants at the time of treatment. Test concentrations range from 0.05% down to that at which 50% mortality occurs. II. Systemic Assay Test chemicals are dissolved in acetone and aliquots are diluted in 200 cc of water in glass bottles. Two pinto bean plants (Phaseolus sp.), with expanded primary leaves, are supported in each bottle by cotton plugs, so that their roots and stems are immersed in the treated water. The plants are then infested with 75-100 two-spotted mites of various ages and sexes. One week later the mortality of the adult mites and nymphs is recorded. Test concentrations range from 10 ppm down to that at which 50% mortality occurs. The results of the above test procedures, indicating the effective concentration at which 50% mortality was achieved, are listed in Table II. TABLE II______________________________________Effective Concentrations on Two-Spotted Mite[Tetranychus urticae (Koch)]COMPOUNDNUMBER PE (%) Eggs (%) SYS (%)______________________________________ .005 .01 102 .003 .008 >103 .005 .005 >104 .05 .05 --______________________________________ PE = Post-embryonic- SYS = Systemic > > Greater than Neither the examples nor the tables above are intended to limit the invention in any manner. The compounds of this invention are generally embodied in a form suitable for convenient application. For example, the compounds can be embodied in miticidal compositions in the form of emulsions, suspensions, solutions, dusts, and aerosol sprays. In addition to the active compounds, such compositions generally contain the adjuvants which are normally found in miticide preparations. One such composition can contain either a single miticidally active compound or a combination of miticidally active compounds. The miticide compositions of this invention can contain as adjuvants organic solvents such as sesame oil, xylene, or heavy petroleum; water; emulsifying agents; surface active agents; talc; pyrophyllite; diatomite; gypsum; clays; or propellants such as dichlorodifluoromethane; or a combination of these. If desired, however, the active compounds can be applied directly to feedstuffs, seeds, or other such matter upon which the pests feed. When applied in such a manner, it will be advantageous to use a compound which is not volatile. In connection with the activity of the presently disclosed miticidal compounds, it should be fully understood that the compounds need not be active as such. The purposes of this invention will be fully served by a compound which is rendered active by an external influence such as light, or by some physiological action which the compound induces when it is ingested into the body of the pest. The precise manner in which the miticidal compounds of this invention should be used in any particular instance will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art. The concentration of the active miticide in a typical composition can vary within rather wide limits. Ordinarily, the miticide will comprise not more than about 15.0% by weight of the composition. The preferred range of concentration of the miticide is about 0.1 to about 1.0% by weight.
Miticidally active compounds are described herein, which are defined by the following generic formula ##STR1## wherein X is selected from the group consisting of chlorine, fluorine, and trifluoromethyl; Y and Z are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, chlorine, and methyl; R 1 is either methyl or ethyl; R 2 and R 3 are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and methyl; and R 4 is either methyl or --C.tbd.CH.
0
BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field The disclosure generally relates to the field of power transistors. 2. Description of the Related Art Power circuits are generally susceptible to issues related to power dissipation, such as concentrated heat and current densities. Power dissipation, simply put, is the product of current flowing through a device that has some amount of resistance. The dissipation of power in a device over a period of time produces undesirable heat, which may, if in sufficient quantity, cause melting in portions of the device. Melting in semiconductor devices generally leads to operational failure. Current density is a measurement of electric current through an area and can also lead to device malfunction. For example, when the path for current to flow becomes restricted to an area that is relatively small for the amount of current flowing, the current density increases. A sufficient increase in current density begins to break down the material through which the current is flowing. This breakdown, similar to undesirable amounts of heat, generally leads to device failure. BRIEF SUMMARY The following disclosure relates to a transistor with improved heat and current density disbursement. In one embodiment, metal layers associated with a source are interleaved with metal layers associated with a drain. The metal layers of this embodiment are interleaved with fingers of metal. In another embodiment, the metal fingers include a lower metal layer and an upper metal layer, and the upper metal layer is deposited directly on the lower metal layer without the use of a via or inter-metal connector. In one embodiment, pads for the source and drain are substantially parallel to one another so as to distribute the current density across a long edge of a source pad or a drain pad. Distributing the current density across a long edge of a source pad or a drain pad will increase the non-destructive current capacity of the transistor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify similar elements or acts. The sizes and relative positions of elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale or in the exact shape of the operating product. FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a prior art power transistor layout. FIG. 1B is a view of a partial cross section the power transistor layout of FIG. 1A . FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating a power transistor layout, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 2B is a view of a partial cross section of the power transistor layout of FIG. 2A . FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram of an open ground transistor test, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram illustrating a short-to-plus unpowered transistor test, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram illustrating an amplifier application of a transistor, in accordance with an embodiment. FIGS. 6A , 6 B, and 6 C are block diagrams representing a layout of a portion of the power transistor, in accordance with an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures and methods associated with integrated circuits and semiconductor manufacturing/packaging processes have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments. Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as “including, but not limited to.” Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate three hot spot locations that occur with power transistor layout 100 . The hot spot locations depend upon the distance of fingers from pads, length of fingers, and placement of pads with respect to fingers. FIG. 1A shows a block diagram of the power transistor layout 100 , which includes a source pad 102 , a drain pad 104 , a drain pad 106 , and a source pad 108 . The zig-zag lines of FIG. 1A represent interleaved fingers of a metal layer 101 and illustrate separation between the source metal layer bases surrounding the source pads and drain metal bases surrounding the drain pads. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A , source metal layer base 103 surrounds source pad 102 and drain metal layer base 105 surrounds drain pad 106 . Transistor layout 100 includes the sources and drains of four transistors. Two n-channel transistors extend from source pad 102 . One n-channel transistor is formed between source pad 102 and drain pad 104 . Another n-channel transistor is formed between source pad 102 and drain pad 106 . Similarly, two p-channel devices extend from source pad 108 . One p-channel transistor is formed between source pad 108 and drain pad 104 . Another p-channel transistor is formed between source pad 108 and drain pad 106 . FIG. 1A does not illustrate the gates of the transistors. Furthermore, the area surrounding the source and drain pads represent a metal layer that connects a source or drain of a transistor to a source or drain pad. The large arrow 111 represents one of the four current paths and illustrates three points in which heat or current density may cause failure. Pad corner 110 represents a point near the corner of source pad 108 . A least resistive path for current to flow from source 108 to drain 106 exists at pad corner 110 . During operation of transistor layout 100 , the corners of source pad 108 , such as pad corner 110 , are susceptible to becoming hot spots. Hot spots are locations where heat or current density increases the temperature of the metal layer at a location that may cause melting and lead to lower performance or inoperability of transistor layout 100 . The metal melting in transistor layout 100 is due to the Joule effect. An increase in current carried by the transistor during non-destructive tests, as will be described in association with FIGS. 3 and 4 , creates hot spots at various locations on the shown metal layer 101 . Pad positioning contributes to non-uniform current distribution and higher specific Joule effect due to local layout topology. At hot spots, the shown metal layer 101 and underlying metals start to melt. The melting metal interrupts the current path, and the current carried by this path becomes more concentrated. The sequence of metal melting and current becoming more concentrated eventually produces destructive results. Metal finger base 112 illustrates a second potential hot spot. A base of a metal finger is the location at the metal layer from which a finger extends. Current entering metal finger base 112 transitions from a lower current density to a higher current density due to the current constricting and flowing through vias to lower metal layers. As discussed in association with the Joule effect, an increase in current concentration can create a hot spot at which the metal layer melts. FIG. 1B is a view of a partial cross section the power transistor layout of FIG. 1A . This cross section represents the junction between interleaved metal fingers of the source metal layer base 103 of the shown upper metal layer 101 in FIG. 1A and drain metal layer base 105 of the shown metal layer 101 in FIG. 1A . Also shown is a lower metal layer 117 below the metal layer 101 shown in FIG. 1A . As current 113 flows from the drain metal layer base 105 through vias 115 to lower metal layer 117 , one can more readily recognize the current concentration that occurs that may destroy the metal vias 115 at the regions located where the drain metal layer base 105 and source metal layer base 103 are adjacent to each other. Finger end 114 illustrates a third potential hot spot. This hot spot is due to major current density from the lower metal layer 117 passing through a via 115 to the upper metal layer 101 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B . FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate embodiments that mitigate the destructive effects of hot spots. Shown in FIG. 2A is block diagram of a power transistor layout 200 in accordance with one such embodiment. Transistor layout 200 includes source pad 102 , drain pad 202 , drain pad 204 , drain pad 206 , drain pad 208 , and source pad 108 . The zig-zag lines of FIG. 2A represent interleaved fingers of a metal layer 201 and illustrate separation between the source metal layer bases surrounding the source pads and drain metal bases surrounding the drain pads. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A , source metal layer base 203 surrounds source pad 102 and drain metal layer base 205 surrounds drain pad 204 , and metal finger section 212 is an example of a metal finger section extending from drain metal layer base 205 interleaved with metal fingers extending from source metal layer base 203 . Power transistor layout 200 includes the sources and drains of four transistors. Two n-channel transistors extend from source pad 102 . One n-channel transistor is formed between source pad 102 and drain pad 202 . Another n-channel transistor is formed between source pad 102 and drain pad 204 . Similarly, two p-channel devices extend from source pad 108 . One p-channel transistor is formed between source pad 108 and drain pad 206 . Another p-channel transistor is formed between source pad 108 and drain pad 208 . FIG. 2A does not illustrate the gates of the transistors. Furthermore, the area surrounding the source and drain pads represent a metal layer that connects a source or drain of a transistor to a source or drain pad. The four transistors can be coupled as full Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) output drivers, with their drains the n and p channel transistors coupled together to provide a high power output in a manner well known in the art. The power transistor layout 200 can be considered to be used having two legs, a first leg at the p and n channel transistors on one side and a second leg of the other p and n channel transistors on the other side. FIG. 2B is a view of a partial cross section of the power transistor layout of FIG. 2A . This cross section represents the junction between interleaved metal fingers of the source metal layer base 203 of the shown upper metal layer 201 in FIG. 2A and drain metal layer base 205 of the shown upper metal layer 201 in FIG. 2A . In one embodiment, drain metal layer base 205 of the upper metal layer 201 is deposited directly on a lower metal layer 221 , bypassing the use of via structures, at least in the region of the metal finger section 212 . Alternatively, in another embodiment the upper drain metal layer base 205 is deposited directly on the lower metal layer 221 for most of the length of the metal finger section 212 . The direct connection of drain metal layer base 205 of the shown upper metal layer 201 with lower metal layer 221 serves several functions. Directly connecting the drain metal layer base 205 to lower metal layer 221 improves heat distribution resulting from power dissipation. Each oxide or silicon layer has a significant inherent thermal resistance. Analogous to current flowing through electrical resistance, thermal resistance impedes the flow of heat from one process layer to another. The separation of the drain metal layer base 205 from lower metal layer 221 by an interlayer dielectric, such as is shown in FIG. 1B , impedes the distribution of heat that is generated by power dissipated in the drain metal layer base 205 . Ideally, generated heat will be conducted to the substrate to minimize the likelihood of altering or melting the electrically conductive metal structures. The disclosed embodiment of FIG. 2B which illustrates drain metal layer base 205 directly connected to lower metal layer 221 significantly reduces the thermal resistance between the metal layers and therefore reduces the risk of hot spots, which may occur in locations similar to those around pad corner 110 and finger base 112 shown in FIG. 1A . Directly connecting drain metal base layer 205 to lower metal layer 221 reduces current density issues. Metal finger section 210 of lower metal layer 221 extends beneath source metal layer base 203 . Not shown is a lower source metal finger portion which also extends beneath drain metal layer base 205 . Metal finger section 212 comprises an overlap of drain metal layer base 205 and lower metal layer 221 . Base plate section 214 illustrates an overlap of drain metal layer base 205 and lower metal layer 221 in the metal layer from which the metal finger section 212 protrudes. The overlap of drain metal layer base 205 and lower metal layer 221 at metal finger section 212 and base plate section 214 distributes the current flowing through the finger so as to reduce the current density. In the absence of either the metal finger section 212 or the base plate section 214 , the maximum total current value is significantly reduced. The following equations explain the function of the power geometry. The current flowing through base plate section 214 can be represented as: IMx =( I finger 210 /(2* I finger 210 +I finger 212 )* I, where, I=total current I finger 210 =the current through metal finger section 210 , and I finger 212 =the current through metal finger section 212 . The total current I is equal to the current through finger section 210 and 212 as well as base plate section 214 . The current through base plate section 214 is represented by: IMx=[ 1− I finger 210 /(2* I finger 210 +I finger 212 )] I. In one embodiment, the ratio of the length of metal finger section 212 divided by metal finger section 210 is between 1.7 and 2.1. FIG. 3 illustrates subjecting one leg of power transistor layout 200 to a short to open ground (“STOG”) test. The STOG test simulates the floating ground that may occur in car audio applications of a power transistor in one use of an embodiment of transistor layout 200 . A floating ground in a car audio application may damage a power transistor by forward biasing a parasitic pn junction inherent in mosfet devices. In the STOG test, the capacitor C is precharged with a voltage, a switch SW 1 is opened some time thereafter, and the parasitic body-drain pn junction of the n-channel device is forward biased. In one embodiment, the C is charged to 16.5 volts to perform the STOG test. The embodiment of transistor layout 200 more evenly dissipates power and disperses current density so as to effect approximately a 17% increase over the prior art in the voltage level that can be applied to transistor layout 200 without damaging the device. FIG. 4 illustrates subjecting one leg of power transistor layout 200 to a short to plus unpowered (“SPU”) test. The SPU test simulates the charging of a capacitive load, such as speakers with the needed interconnecting wires, followed by the sudden loss of the power supply to transistor layout 200 . In such an event, the pn junction of the p-channel device would become forward biased and begin conducting. The SPU test evaluates the strength of the p-channel device to withstand such undesirable conditions. The embodiment illustrated by transistor layout 200 demonstrates approximately a 14% improvement over the prior art for the SPU test. In one embodiment, a charged capacitive load is simulated by applying 16.5 volts to drain pad 208 for the SPU test without damaging the device. FIG. 5 illustrates power transistor layout 200 (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B ) being used in one or more stages of an audio amplifier having audio input 502 and additional input from circuitry 504 , and an amplified audio output 506 , in accordance with an embodiment. In one embodiment transistor layout 200 is a first stage A 508 of an audio amplifier 500 . In another embodiment, transistor layout 200 is a last stage Z 510 of an audio amplifier. In yet another embodiment transistor layout 200 is one or more stages between the first and the last stages of an audio amplifier. A few points are noted regarding the upper metal layers 101 and 201 shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A , respectively, and the lower metal layers 117 and 221 shown in FIGS. 1B and 2B , respectively. The thermal resistance of metal layers 117 and 221 is lower than the one seen from metal layers 101 and 201 , and in an optimal case the increment is about 9%. The metal electrical resistance plays a major role. A safe point on the analysis is that the Joule effects increase the metal temperature. The vias 115 between metal metal layer 117 and metal and metal layer 101 are a source of electrical power because the current flowing from source to drain passes through them and concentrates on the finger-end zone. The metal plates around the pads (e.g., source metal layer base 103 surrounding source pad 102 and drain metal layer base 105 surrounding drain pad 106 ) are useful to make the current more uniform for power dissipation. It is desirable to exploit as much of the lower metal layer 221 as possible to use its vantage to better dissipate energy and impose on it the optimal current with respect to the Joule effect. A way to use this vantage is to join, where possible, metal layer 221 with metal layer 201 . Several advantages include: metal layer 201 is better capable of dissipating energy, it increases the via number to the maximum (full plate), and it reduces the current which pass from metal layer 201 to metal layer 221 through the via at the finger-end. It may also be advantageous to have a metal plate around the pad (e.g., drain metal layer base 205 surrounds drain pad 204 ) in order to get more uniform current to avoid concentrating current on the finger. Having a K factor around 0.67 at the finger end is also advantageous. In terms of the ratio between the length of metal finger section 212 plus the length of base plate section 214 , which is the overlap of drain metal layer base 205 and lower metal layer 221 , divided by the length of metal finger section 210 of lower metal layer 221 overlapping source metal layer base 203 , an advantageous ratio is ˜1.8. Note a way to verify the ratio is through simulation, even if locally, a rule of thumb could be to measure the ratio between finger length and plate length. Practically, a ratio close to 1.8 gives a finger length that leads to enough area of metal plate around the source of the drain pad. Better connections to the pad come from exploiting lower metal layer 221 . Lastly, maximizing the finger pitch may be desirable in order to reduce the percentage of oxide between the fingers. It is advantageous give attention to the limit of metal electro-migration of the fingers. In one embodiment, the finger pitch is 12 um, while the spacing between the finger is 4 um. Such dimensions would produce the following result: efficiency=8 um finger metal/12 um pitch=67%. In another embodiment a pitch of 50 um is used with a spacing of 4 um in order to have: efficiency=46 um/50 um=92% with an increasing of 25% of current capability of the finger-base. FIG. 6A is a block diagram representing a layout of a portion of the power transistor, in accordance with an embodiment. In FIG. 6A a plate of aluminum 601 is deposited along the lower metal layer in order to connect lower metal layer with an upper metal layer. The pitch of the finger 603 is 50 um. The finger overlap length plus finger length divided by finger overlap ratio is about 1.8. The finger 603 is connected to the pad 605 . FIG. 6B illustrates the finger 607 connected to the source or drain pad 609 , in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 6C illustrates an example orientation 610 of metal of the fingers, in accordance with an embodiment. The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, schematics, and examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, schematics, and examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. From the foregoing it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the teachings. Accordingly, the claims are not limited by the disclosed embodiments.
A power transistor for use in an audio application is laid out to minimize hot spots. Hot spots are created by non-uniform power dissipation or overly concentrated current densities. The source and drain pads are disposed relative to each other to facilitate uniform power dissipation. Interleaving metal fingers and upper metal layers are connected directly to lower metal layers in the absence of vias to improve current density distribution. This layout improves some fail detection tests by 17%.
7
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, which inhibits nonspecific adsorption of a substance relating to a living body such as various species of proteins which are used in clinical diagnostic agents, clinical diagnosis devices, biochips and the like, and to a method for coating an article using said nonspecific adsorption inhibitor. 2. Brief Description of the Background Art In recent years, high sensitivity tests are required for the purpose of early stage detection of diseases and the like, and improvement of the sensitivity of diagnostic agents is a serious problem. Also in the case of a diagnostic agent which uses a solid phase such as a polystyrene plate and magnetic particle, for the purpose of improving sensitivity, the detection method is changing from the method which uses an enzymatic color development to a method which uses fluorescence or chemiluminescence from which more high sensitivity can be obtained. However, sufficient sensitivity has not been obtained actually. As a reason of this, in the case of a diagnosis in which a specific substance is detected in the coexistence of living body molecules such as serum, the coexisting living body molecules, secondary antibody, emission substrate and the like adhere nonspecifically to the solid phase, tools, container and the like. As a result, noises are increased to obstruct improvement of sensitivity. Accordingly, in the case of the diagnostic immunoassay, in order to reduce the lowering of sensitivity caused by the nonspecific adsorption of substances other than the specifically binding substance to the surface of the solid phase to be used in the immune reaction, as well as the tools and container, the noises are reduced generally by inhibiting the nonspecific adsorption through the use of a substance derived from organism such as albumin, casein and gelatin as a nonspecific adsorption inhibitor. However, even when a nonspecific adsorption inhibitor by the conventional method is added, the nonspecific adsorption still remains. Furthermore, when a nonspecific adsorption inhibitor derived from a living body is used, there is a problem of organism pollution represented by BSE. Therefore, the development of a high performance nonspecific adsorption inhibitor by chemical synthesis is required. As the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor by chemical synthesis, polymers having polyoxyethylene are proposed in JP-A-10-153599 and JP-A-11-352127, and a specific methacrylic copolymer in Japanese Patent No. 3443891. However, their nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect was insufficient. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, which can inhibit nonspecific adsorption of a substance relating to a living body such as protein to the solid phase surface and tools and container which are used in the diagnostic chemiluminescence immunoassay and the like, and a method for coating an article using said nonspecific adsorption inhibitor. The nonspecific adsorption inhibitor for a substance relating to a living body according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a copolymer comprising a repeating unit (A) represented by the following formula (1): wherein R 0 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and Z represents a group represented by the following formula (1a) or (1b): wherein R 1 and R 2 independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having from 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkyl group having from 1 to 8 carbon atoms which is substituted with at least one group selected from a hydroxyl group, a carboxyl group, an alkoxy group, an acyloxy group and an alkoxycarbonyl group; wherein R 3 and R 4 independently represent single bond, methylene, methylene substituted with a hydroxyl group or a carboxyl group, an alkylene group having from 2 to 7 carbon atoms or an alkylene group having from 2 to 7 carbon atoms substituted with a hydroxyl group or a carboxyl group wherein total number of carbon atoms of R 3 and R 4 is from 4 to 10; wherein at least one of R 3 and R 4 may have an ether bond, and Y represents any one of a single bond, O and S and a repeating unit (B) represented by the following formula (2): wherein R 5 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and R 6 represents a phenyl group or a group represented by —CO 2 R 7 wherein R 7 represents a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, an alicyclic hydrocarbon or an aromatic hydrocarbon. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION With the aim of solving the problems described above, the inventors of the present invention have found that a copolymerized polymer of a specific composition has a high nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect on a substance relating to a living body to accomplish the present invention. According to the present invention, the substance relating to a living body means lipid, protein, saccharides or nucleic acids. According to the above-mentioned formula (1) of the above-mentioned nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, R 1 may represent a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and R 2 may represent at least one species selected from a hydrogen atom, a methyl group and a hydroxyethyl group. According to the above-mentioned nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, the aforementioned repeating unit (B) may be a structure derived from at least one monomer wherein its solubility in water is less than 20%. According to the above-mentioned formula (2) of the above-mentioned nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, R 5 may represent a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R 6 may represent —CO 2 R 7 group and R 7 may represent at least one species selected from a methyl group, an ethyl group and a methoxyethyl group. According to the above-mentioned nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, the aforementioned copolymer may further comprise a repeating unit (C) represented by the following formula (3): wherein R 8 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and R 9 represents an organic group which comprises at least one aldo group or keto group. According to the above-mentioned nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, it may further comprise a hydrazide compound (H) which comprises at least two hydrazino groups per one molecule. The method for coating an article according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a step of allowing an article to contact with a solution comprising the above-mentioned nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body. The following illustratively describes the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body according to an embodiment of the present invention and the method for coating an article using said nonspecific adsorption inhibitor. 1. Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitor of a Substance Relating to a Living Body 1.1. Construction of the Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitor of a Substance Relating to a Living Body 1. The nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in this embodiment comprises a copolymer comprising a repeating unit (A) represented by the following formula (1): wherein R 0 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and Z represents a group represented by the following formula (1a) or (1b): wherein R 1 and R 2 independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having from 1 to 8 carbon atoms or an alkyl group having from 1 to 8 carbon atoms which is substituted with at least one group selected from a hydroxyl group, a carboxyl group, an alkoxy group, an acyloxy group and an alkoxycarbonyl group; wherein R 3 and R 4 independently represent single bond, methylene, methylene substituted with a hydroxyl group or a carboxyl group, an alkylene group having from 2 to 7 carbon atoms or an alkylene group having from 2 to 7 carbon atoms substituted with a hydroxyl group or a carboxyl group wherein total number of carbon atoms of R 3 and R 4 is from 4 to 10, wherein at least one of R 3 and R 4 may have an ether bond, and Y represents any one of a single bond, O and S and a repeating unit (B) represented by the following formula (2): wherein R 5 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and R 6 represents a phenyl group or a group represented by —CO 2 R 7 wherein R 7 represents a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, an alicyclic hydrocarbon or an aromatic hydrocarbon. The nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in this embodiment may contain the above-mentioned copolymer in a part thereof or may be constructed from the above-mentioned copolymer alone. 1.2. Physical Properties and Application of the Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitor of a Substance Relating to a Living Body Regarding the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment, number average molecular weight of the above-mentioned copolymer is generally from 1,000 to 1,000,000, preferably from 2,000 to 100,000, more preferably from 3,000 to 50,000. Additionally, molecular weight distribution of the above-mentioned copolymer is typically from 1.5 to 3 as weight average molecular weight/number average molecular weight. This is because when number average molecular weight of the above-mentioned copolymer is less than the above-mentioned range, there is a case where the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect is insufficient. On the other hand, when number average molecular weight of the above-mentioned copolymer is larger than the above-mentioned range, there is a case where it becomes difficult to carry out the coating and handling because of the increased viscosity of the solution. The copolymer, contained by the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment, is water-soluble. The “water-soluble” according to the present invention means that, when the copolymer is added to and mixed with water to a 1% polymer solid content at 25° C., it is dissolved therein transparently or semi-transparently as observed with the naked eye. The nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment has a high nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect. The nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment can illustratively act in the following manner. According to the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment, the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor can be adhered to the wall surface of a container, a tool and the like through the hydrophobic bond of the repeating unit (B) of the above-mentioned copolymer, and nonspecific adsorption of protein, lipid and the like can also be inhibited because the wall surface becomes hydrophilic by the repeating unit (A). Since the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment shows a high adsorption rate because of the possession of a copolymer in which the repeating unit (A) and repeating unit (B) are balanced, it particularly can effectively inhibit adsorption of protein and the like nonspecific adsorption-causing substances to the wall surface of a container, a tool and the like. Additionally, according to the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment, the repeating unit (B) of the above-mentioned copolymer interacts with protein and the repeating unit (A) has the dispersing activity for water. Therefore, it can effect solubilization of protein in an aqueous solvent by preventing change of the protein to hydrophobic nature through its conformational change. The nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment shows the effect to strongly inhibit nonspecific adsorption of protein and the like, for example, by a method in which it is coated on a container, a tool and the like or a method in which it is added to a diluent, reaction solvent or preservative of a diagnostic agent. Namely, the method for coating an article according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a step for allowing the article to contact with solution which comprises the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating a living body concerned in the present embodiment. Also, the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment can inhibit signals of nonspecific analytes by its use as a diluent of an immuno-diagnostic agent. Additionally, the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment has the effect to maintain activity of a protein for a prolonged period of time when it is added to solution of the protein as, for example, a stabilizer of a labeled antibody, a labeled antigen, an enzyme, a primary antibody or a primary antigen to be used as a clinical diagnostic agent, a stabilizer of a protein contained in a blood plasma preparations, a stabilizer of an enzyme or the like to be used in washing contact lenses, and the like. 1.3. Repeating Unit (A) In the above-mentioned copolymer, the repeating unit (A) represented by the above-mentioned formula (1) can contribute to the expression of high nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect. Examples of the substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group having from 1 to 8 carbon atoms represented by R 1 and R 2 in the above-mentioned formula (1a) include a substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched alkyl group, such as a methyl group, an ethyl group, a n-propyl group, an isopropyl group, a n-butyl group, a sec-butyl group, a tert-butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, and groups in which these groups are substituted with a functional group such as a hydroxyl group, an alkoxy group and the like. More illustratively, it is preferable that, in the above-mentioned formula (1), R 1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and R 2 represents at least one species selected from a hydrogen atom, a methyl group and a hydroxyethyl group. Additionally, examples of the ring structure which corresponds to the above-mentioned formula (1b) include a pyrrolidino group, a piperidino group, a morpholino group, a thiomorpholino group and the like. 1.4. Repeating Unit (B) In the above-mentioned copolymer, the repeating unit (B) represented by the above-mentioned formula (2) can contribute to the expression of high nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect by shifting the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance of the copolymer to the hydrophobic side. Examples of the substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms represented by R 5 in the above-mentioned formula (2) include a substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched alkyl group such as a methyl group, an ethyl group, a n-propyl group, an isopropyl group, a n-butyl group, a sec-butyl group, a tert-butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, and groups in which these groups are substituted with a functional group such as a hydroxyl group, an alkoxy group. Also, examples of the alicyclic hydrocarbon represented by R 7 in the above-mentioned formula (2) include an isobonyl group and a cyclohexyl group, and examples of the aromatic hydrocarbon represented by R 7 include benzyl. Also, it is preferable that, in the above-mentioned formula (2), R 5 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R 6 is a group represented by —CO 2 R 7 and R 7 represents at least one species selected from a methyl group, an ethyl group and a methoxyethyl group. Additionally, in the above-mentioned copolymer, at least one or more species of the repeating unit (A) and repeating unit (B) may be respectively contained. In this connection, the above-mentioned copolymer may contain a repeating unit (C) in addition to the repeating unit (A) and repeating unit (B). 1.5. Repeating Unit (C) According to the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment, the above-mentioned copolymer can further contain a repeating unit (C) represented by the following formula (3): wherein R 8 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and R 9 represents an organic group which comprises at least one aldo group or keto group. In the above-mentioned copolymer, the repeating unit (C) can contribute to increase in durability of a formed coating film (a nonspecific adsorption inhibitor layer). According to the present invention, the aldo group means an aldehyde group bound to a carbon atom, the keto group means a carbonyl group bound to two carbon atoms, and carboxyl group and amino group are not included. In the above-mentioned formula (3), R 8 is preferably a hydrogen atom. R 9 is preferably an organic group having an aldo group such as formyl group, formylphenyl group, an ester group containing an aldo group represented by the following formula (4): wherein R 10 to R 13 are independently a hydrogen atom, a methyl group or an ethyl group; an amido group containing an aldo group represented by the following formula (5): wherein R 14 to R 17 are independently hydrogen atom, methyl group or ethyl group, or the like; or an organic group having a keto group such as an acetyl group, an acetylphenyl group, an ester group containing keto group represented by the following formula (6): wherein R 18 to R 21 are independently a hydrogen atom, a methyl group or an ethyl group; an amido group containing keto group represented by the following formula (7): wherein R 22 to R 25 are independently a hydrogen atom, a methyl group or an ethyl group, or the like More preferable organic group as R 9 is a formyl group, an acetyl group and an organic group represented by the following formula (8) and most preferable organic group is the organic group represented by the following formula (8): 1.6. Hydrazide Compound (H) The hydrazide compound (H) has at least two hydrazino groups per one molecule. Examples of a hydrazide compound (H) include dicarboxylic acid dihydrazide having from 2 to 10, particularly from 4 to 6 carbon atoms in total, such as oxalic acid dihydrazide, malonic acid dihydrazide, succinic acid dihydrazide, glutaric acid dihydrazide, adipic acid dihydrazide, sebacic acid dihydrazide, phthalic acid dihydrazide, isophthalic acid dihydrazide, terephthalic acid dihydrazide, maleic acid dihydrazide, fumaric acid dihydrazide, itaconic acid dihydrazide or the like; hydrazides having three or more of functional groups such as citric acid trihydrazide, nitriloacetic acid trihydrazide, cyclohexanetricarboxylic acid trihydrazide, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tetrahydrazide or the like; water-soluble dihydrazines such as aliphatic dihydrazines having from 2 to 4 carbon atoms and the like such as ethylene-1,2-dihydrazine, propylene-1,2-dihydrazine, propylene-1,3-dihydrazine, butylene-1,2-dihydrazine, butylene-1,3-dihydrazine, butylene-1,4-dihydrazine, butylene-2,3-dihydrazine and the like, and a compound in which at least a part of hydrazino groups of such a multifunctional hydrazine derivative is blocked by allowing them to react with carbonyl compound such as acetaldehyde, propionaldehyde, butylaldehyde, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, diethyl ketone, methyl-n-propyl ketone, methyl-n-butyl ketone, diacetone alcohol or the like, such as adipic acid dihydrazide monoacetonehydrrazone, adipic acid dihydrazide diacetonehydrrazone and the like. Of these hydrazide compounds (H), at least one species selected from adipic acid dihydrazide, sebacic acid dihydrazide, isophthalic acid dihydrazide and adipic acid dihydrazide diacetonehydrrazone is preferable. The hydrazide compound (H) can be used alone or as a mixture of two or more species. It is preferable that the amount of the hydrazide compound (H) to be used is such an amount that mol equivalent ratio of the total amount of an aldo group and a keto group in the above-mentioned copolymer to the hydrazino group of the hydrazide compound (H) becomes a range of 1:0.1 to 5, preferably becomes a range of 1:0.5 to 1.5, further preferably becomes a range of 1:0.7 to 1.2. In this case, when the hydrazino group is less than 1 equivalent based on 1 equivalent as the total of an aldo group and a keto group, the formed coat (nonspecific adsorption inhibitor layer) becomes inferior in durability in some cases. On the other hand, when it exceeds 5 equivalents, the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect lowers in some cases. Although the hydrazide compound (H) can be blended at an optional step for preparing the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment, in order to keep polymerization stability at the time of producing the above-mentioned copolymer, it is preferable to blend total amount of the hydrazide compound (H) after production of the above-mentioned copolymer. The hydrazide compound (H) has the activity to form a hydrophilic network structure to effect crosslinking of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor layer, through the reaction of its hydrazino group with the keto group and/or aldo group of the above-mentioned copolymer at the drying step after application of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment. Although the crosslinking reaction generally proceeds at ordinary temperature without using a catalyst, it can be accelerated by adding catalyst such as a water-soluble metal salt or the like such as zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate, cobalt sulfate or the like, or by carrying out drying by heating. 2. Production of Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitor of a Substance Relating to a Living Body Next, the monomer composition to be used for producing the above-mentioned copolymer is described. 2.1. Monomer (a) The repeating unit (A) has a structure derived from at least one species of a monomer (a). It is preferable that the monomer (a) is at least one species of monomer selected from acrylamide and N-substituted monomers of acrylamide. Examples of the N-substituted monomers of acrylamide include N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N,N-diethylacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, N-hydroxyethylacrylamide, acryloylmorpholine, acryloylpyrrolidine, acryloylpiperidine and the like. More preferable examples of the monomer (a) include at least one species selected from acrylamide, N-hydroxyethylacrylamide and N,N-dimethylacrylamide, and further preferable examples include N,N-dimethylacrylamide or a combination of N,N-dimethylacrylamide and N,N-diethylacrylamide. 2.2. Monomer (b) The repeating unit (B) has a structure derived from at least one species of a monomer (b). The monomer (b) is at least one species of monomer of which solubility in water is less than 20%. According to the present invention, the “monomer of which solubility in water is less than 20%” means a monomer in which separation of the monomer from water phase can be confirmed with the naked eye after adding it to water of 25° C. to be a monomer concentration of 20% followed by stirring. Since solubility of the monomer (b) in water is less than 20%, further high nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect can be expressed. Examples of the monomer (b) include methoxyethyl (meth)acrylate, methyl (meth)acrylate, ethyl (meth)acrylate, propyl (meth)acrylate, butyl (meth)acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl(meth)acrylate, lauryl(meth)acrylate, cyclohexyl(meth)acrylate, isobonyl(meth)acrylate, benzyl(meth)acrylate, styrene and the like. More preferable monomer (b) is at least one species selected from methyl methacrylate, ethyl acrylate and methoxyethyl acrylate. 2.3. Monomer Composition and Polymerization According to the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in the present embodiment, it may contain a repeating unit (C) and may further contain a repeating unit (D), in addition to the repeating unit (A) and repeating unit (B). A monomer (c) is a component for forming the repeating unit (C), and a monomer (d) is a component for forming the repeating unit (D). Namely, the repeating unit (C) has a structure derived from at least one species of the monomer (c). The repeating unit (D) has a structure derived from at least one species of the monomer (d). It is preferable that the monomer (c) is at least one species selected from acrolein, formylstyrene, vinyl methyl ketone, vinyl phenyl ketone, (meth)acrylate and (meth)acrylamides having a group represented by the above-mentioned formulae (4) to (7). It is more preferable that the monomer (c) is at least one species selected from acrolein, vinyl methyl ketone and diacetone acrylamide in view of copolymerizability. It is most preferable that the monomer (c) is diacetone acrylamide in view of the safety of monomer. When from 1 to 10% by weight of an anionic monomer, particularly styrenesulfonic acid, isoprenesulfonic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid or the like, is used as the other monomer (d) and copolymerized with the monomer (a) and monomer (b) (further with the monomer (c) as occasion demands) to produce a copolymer, and the product is used as the diluent of an immuno-diagnostic agent, the effect to inhibit signals of nonspecific analytes can be obtained in some cases. The monomer composition for producing the above-mentioned copolymer is preferably from 30 to 99% by weight of the monomer (a), from 1 to 70% by weight of the monomer (b), from 0 to 49% by weight of the monomer (c) and from 0 to 49% by weight of the other monomer (d), more preferably from 40 to 95% by weight of the monomer (a), from 5 to 60% by weight of the monomer (b), from 0 to 30% by weight of the monomer (c) and from 0 to 20% by weight of the other monomer (d), based on 100% by weight of the total monomers. The monomer composition in the case of particularly requiring durability is preferably from 30 to 97% by weight of the monomer (a), from 1 to 68% by weight of the monomer (b), from 2 to 49% by weight of the monomer (c) and from 0 to 49% by weight of the other monomer (d), based on 100% by weight of the total monomers. When the monomers (a) and (b) are outside the above-mentioned ranges, the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory becomes inferior in some cases. Also, when the monomer (c) is less than 2% by weight, the durability becomes inferior in some cases, and when it exceeds 49% by weight, the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory becomes inferior in some cases. The monomers to be used can be used in the copolymerization by purifying those which are available as industrial materials or without purification as such. Polymerization of the monomers can be carried out by, for example, conventionally known polymerization methods such as radical polymerization, anionic polymerization, cationic polymerization and the like, of which radical polymerization is preferable in view of the easy production. Additionally, polymerization of the monomers is carried out by stirring and heating them together with conventionally known solvent, initiator, chain transfer agent and the like. The polymerization time is generally from 30 minutes to 24 hours and the polymerization temperature is approximately from 0 to 120° C. It is preferable that the copolymer aqueous solution after polymerization is purified by dialysis membrane, Dialyzer, Acilyzer and the like. 3. Examples and Comparative Examples Although the following describes the present invention further in detail with reference to examples, the present invention is not limited by these. In the Examples, weight average molecular weight (Mw) and number average molecular weight (Mn) were measured by a gel permeation chromatography (GPC) which uses a monodisperse system polyethylene glycol as the standard, using TSK gel α-M column manufactured by Tosoh Corporation, under analytical conditions of 1 mL/min in flow rate, 0.1 mM sodium chloride aqueous solution/acrylonitrile mixed solvent as the elution solvent and 40° C. as the column temperature. The absorbance was measured by Model 680 Micro Plate Reader manufactured by Nippon Bio-Rad Laboratories. 3.1. Example 1 3.1.1 Synthesis of Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitor (N-1) With 900 g of water, 60 g of dimethylacrylamide and 30 g of diethylacrylamide as the monomer (a), 10 g of methyl methacrylate as the monomer (b) and 1 g of cysteamine hydrochloride as a chain transfer agent were mixed and put into a separable flask equipped with a stirrer. With bubbling nitrogen into this, temperature of the contents was risen to be 70° C., 2 g of 2,2′-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine)dihydrochloride was added as an initiator, followed by polymerization for 2 hours. The temperature was further increased to be 80° C. to carry out 3 hours of aging and then lowered to room temperature. The obtained copolymer solution was purified by a Dialyzer and further freeze-dried to obtain 95 g of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1) of the Example. Number average molecular weight of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1) by GPC was 8,000, and its weight average molecular weight was 16,000. 3.1.2. Measurement of Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitory Effect A 96 well plate made of polystyrene (to be referred to as “96 well plate” hereinafter) was filled with a 0.5% aqueous solution of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1) and incubated at 37° C. for 30 minutes followed by washing 5 times with ion exchange water. Next, the 96 well plate was filled with a horseradish peroxidase-labeled mouse IgG antibody (“AP124P” manufactured by Millipore) aqueous solution and incubated at room temperature for 30 minutes followed by washing three times with PBS buffer. Then a color was developed with TMB (3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine)/hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution/sulfuric acid to measure the absorbance at 450 nm. 3.2. Examples 2 and 3 The same operation as Example 1 was carried out except that monomers were used at the monomer ratios shown in Table 1. 3.3. Comparative Example 1 A copolymerization polymer (X-1) was obtained by the same method as “3.1.1 Synthesis of nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1)” in Example 1, except that 100 g of diethylacrylamide alone was used as the monomer instead of 60 g of dimethylacrylamide and 30 g of diethylacrylamide as the monomer (a) and 10 g of methyl methacrylate as the monomer (b). Number average molecular weight of the copolymerization polymer (X-1) by GPC was 5,200, and its weight average molecular weight was 13,000. Also, the absorbance when the copolymerization polymer (X-1) was used was measured by the same method as the “3.1.2. Measurement of nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect”. 3.4. Comparative Example 2 A copolymerization polymer (X-2) was obtained by the same method as “3.1.1 Synthesis of nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1)” in Example 1, except that 100 g of dimethylacrylamide alone was used as the monomer instead of 60 g of dimethylacrylamide and 30 g of diethylacrylamide as the monomer (a) and 10 g of methyl methacrylate as the monomer (b). Number average molecular weight of the copolymerization polymer (X-2) by GPC was 9,800, and its weight average molecular weight was 20,000. Also, the absorbance when the copolymerization polymer (X-2) was used was measured by the same method as the “3.1.2. Measurement of nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect”. 3.5. Comparative Example 3 In Example 1, bovine serum albumin (BSA) was used instead of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1), and the absorbance when BSA was used was measured by the same method as the “3.1.2. Measurement of nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect”. 3.6. Comparative Example 4 In Example 1, the same method as “3.1.1 Synthesis of nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1)” was carried out except that 100 g of methyl methacrylate alone was used as the monomer instead of 60 g of dimethylacrylamide and 30 g of diethylacrylamide as the monomer (a) and 10 g of methyl methacrylate as the monomer (b). However, since a large amount of white coagulation were generated several minutes after addition of the initiator, the polymerization was stopped. 3.7. Comparative Example 5 In Example 1, commercially available polyvinyl pyrrolidone was used instead of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1). The absorbance when BSA was used was measured by the same method as the “3.1.2. Measurement of nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect”. 3.8. Measured Results Measured results on the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect of the above Examples and Comparative Examples are shown in Table 1. TABLE 1 Molecular Weight Ab- Monomer (a) Monomer (b) (Mn) sorbance Example 1 Dimethylacrylamide Methyl 8000 0.026 Diethylacrylamide methacrylate Example 2 Acryloylmorpholine Methyl 6100 0.060 95 g methacrylate 5 g Example 3 Dimethylacrylamide Methyl 5000 0.081 90 g methacrylate 10 g Comparative Diethylacrylamide none 5200 0.21 Example 1 Comparative Dimethylacrylamide none 9800 1.8 Example 2 Comparative Bovine serum albumin (nonspecific — 0.20 Example 3 adsorption inhibitor) Comparative none Methyl — — Example 4* methacrylate 100 g Comparative Commercial polyvinyl pyrrolidone 40000 2.4 Example 5 (a water-soluble polymer having a ring structure other than that of the present invention in a side chain) According to Table 1, it was confirmed that the amount of nonspecific adsorption of mouse IgG antibody to the 96 well plate can be markedly reduced by the use of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in Examples 1 to 3, in comparison with the case of a high polymer derived from diethylacrylamide or dimethylacrylamide alone which corresponds to the monomer (a) or bovine serum albumin. 3.9. Example 4 3.9.1. Synthesis of Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitor (N-4) A nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-4) as a copolymerization polymer was obtained by the same method as “3.1.1 Synthesis of nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-1)” in Example 1, except that 56 g of dimethylacrylamide and 16 g of diethylacrylamide were used as the monomer (a), and 8 g of methyl methacrylate as the monomer (b) and 20 g of diacetone acrylamide as the monomer (c), instead of the use of 60 g of dimethylacrylamide and 30 g of diethylacrylamide as the monomer (a) and 10 g of methyl methacrylate as the monomer (b). Number average molecular weight of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-4) by GPC was 9,000, and its weight average molecular weight was 25,000. Also, the absorbance when the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-4) was used was measured by the same method as the “3.1.2. Measurement of nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect”. 3.9.2. Measurement of Nonspecific Adsorption Inhibitory Effect After Washing With Surfactant A 96 well plate was filled with a 0.5% aqueous solution of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-4) and incubated at 37° C. for 30 minutes, followed by washing with ion exchange water. The remaining water was blown off with an air gun. It was dried at 40° C. for 3 hours. It was further washed three times with polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate which is a surfactant. Next, the 96 well plate was filled with a horseradish peroxidase-labeled mouse IgG antibody (“AP124P” manufactured by Millipore) aqueous solution and incubated at room temperature for 30 minutes, followed by washing three times with PBS buffer. Then a color was developed with TMB (3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine)/hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution/sulfuric acid to measure the absorbance at 450 nm. 3.10. Example 5 By adding 1 g of adipic acid dihydrazide to 10 g of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-4) and by using a 0.55% aqueous solution containing the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor (N-4) and adipic acid dihydrazide, measurement of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect and measurement of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect after washing with the surfactant were carried out. 3.11. Comparative Example 6 Using BSA, measurement of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect and measurement of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect after washing with the surfactant were carried out. 3.12. Measured Results Measured results of the above Examples 4 and 5 and Comparative Example 6 are shown in Table 2. TABLE 2 Nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect After washing with No surfactant surfactant Example 4 0.024 1.7 Example 5 0.028 0.087 Comparative 0.20 2.4 Example 6 According to Table 2, it was confirmed that the amount of nonspecific adsorption after washing with the surfactant can be markedly reduced by the use of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body concerned in Examples 4 and 5, in comparison with the case of the use of BSA in Comparative Example 6. Particularly, according to Example 5, it was confirmed that the nonspecific adsorption after washing with the surfactant can be markedly reduced by the use of the nonspecific adsorption inhibitor containing a hydrazide compound (H). According to the above-mentioned nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, it has a high nonspecific adsorption inhibitory effect because it comprises a copolymer comprising a repeating unit (A) represented by the above-mentioned formula (1) and a repeating unit (B) represented by the above-mentioned formula (2). Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to specific examples in the foregoing, it is apparent to person skilled in the art that it is possible to add various alterations and modifications insofar as the alterations and the modifications do not deviate from the spirit and scope of the present invention. This patent application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-291793 filed on Nov. 9, 2007 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-61119 filed on Mar. 11, 2008 and the contents thereof are incorporated herein by reference.
A nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, which inhibits nonspecific adsorption of a substance relating to a living body such as various species of proteins which are used in clinical diagnostic agents, clinical diagnosis devices, biochips and the like, and a method for coating an article using said nonspecific adsorption inhibitor.
2
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The invention relates to an apparatus for removing odor from a toilet bowl. 2. Description of the Prior Art Japanese Patent No. 4-108928(A) discloses a toilet which employs an exhaust system coupled to the rim flush duct for removing odor from the toilet bowl. It also discloses use of the overflow tube in the water tank as part of the odor exhaust system. The upper end of the overflow tube however, is always exposed to the water in the tank which could reduce the suction and result in the tank water being exposed to the odor. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the invention for providing a toilet odor removal system using the overflow tube in the water tank and a valve to open and close an opening in the overflow tube for water overflow purposes and for odor removal purposes respectively. In the embodiment disclosed the overflow tube extends through a side wall of the water tank and the valve is a float valve located near the upper portion of the overflow tube. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a toilet illustrating the invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-section of FIG. 1 taken along the lines 2--2 thereof. FIG. 3 illustrates a float valve employed in the water tank of FIG. 1. In FIG. 3, the float valve is in a closed position. FIG. 4 illustrates the float valve in an open position. FIG. 5 is an end view of the float valve in the closed position of as seen along lines 5--5 FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the water tank and the exhaust tube extending out of the water tank and upward. FIG. 7A is a side view of the float valve in an open position. FIG. 7B is a side view of the float valve in a closed position. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the components in the water tank. FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the toilet showing the odor exhaust path in the toilet. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring now to the drawings, there is disclosed a toilet 21 having a bowl 23 with an outlet 25 leading to a drain 26. The toilet 21 is shown in FIG. 1 supported by the floor 22 of a house or building. The toilet has an upper rim 27 surrounding the bowl which is formed by wall structure 29 forming a surrounding duct 31 with a plurality of apertures 33. The toilet has a rear portion 35 with an upper wall 37 for supporting a water tank 39. The toilet will have a seat and lid coupled to the rear upper portion 35 for example as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,491,847 which patent is incorporated herein by reference. A conduit 41 defined by a conduit wall 42 extends into the wall 37 below the tank 39. Apertures 43 and 45 are formed through opposite sides of the wall 42 which lead to the duct 31 and to ducts 32 on opposite sides of the conduit 41. During flush periods, water flows through an aperture 49 formed through the bottom wall of the tank 39 into the conduit 41, through the apertures 43 and 45 into the duct 31 and through the aperture 33 into the bowl 23 and through the ducts 32 into the lower portion of the bowl 23 for flushing purposes. The duct 31 extends around the conduit 41 and at the rear is defined by the top wall 37, a rear wall 51 and a lower wall 53. The tank 39 comprises a bottom wall 61, side walls comprising a front wall 63, a rear wall 65, two end walls 67 and 69 and a removable top wall or lid 71. The opening 49 is formed through the bottom wall 61. The bottom wall 61 is coupled to the upper wall 37 of the toilet at the rear 35 thereof such that the opening 49 and the conduit 41 are in fluid communication with each other. Seals (not shown) are provided between the bottom wall 61 and the upper wall 37 around the opening 49 and conduit 41. Located in the water tank 39 is a conduit 81 which is securely located in the opening 49. The conduit 81 has an opening 83, for receiving an overflow tube 111 and a slanted offset flapper valve opening 87 which is normally closed by a flapper valve 89. The flapper valve 89 is moved to an open position to allow water 91 from the tank 39 to flow through the opening 87 into the toilet for flush purposes by pulling upward on a chain 93 by rotating a handle 95 having a shaft 97 extending through an opening 99 formed through the front wall 63. The shaft 97 has one end of an extension 101 coupled thereto. The other end of the extension 101 is coupled to the chain 93 by way of a clip 103. Coupled to the inside of the conduit 81 is the lower end 111L of a hollow water overflow tube 111 which is in fluid communication with the conduit 41. The upper end 111U of the tube 111 has the lower end 113L of a hollow elbow 113 coupled thereto. The other end 113D of the elbow 113 extends through an opening 115 formed through the rear wall 65 of the tank 39. Coupled to the end 113D of the elbow is a hollow exhaust tube 117 which extends upward to an electric blower 121 having an outlet 123 extending through the roof 125 of the house or building in which the toilet is located. As shown in FIG. 6, the exhaust tube 117 extends upward between the wall members 131 and 133 of the house or building. The blower 121 is coupled to an AC source 135 by electrical leads 137A and 137B and is operated when a normally open switch 139, located near the toilet 21, is closed to draw air and odor from the bowl 23 through the tube 117 out of the house or building. The switch 139 may be closed manually for operating the blower 121 for a desired period of time by a person after use of the toilet. The odor flow path from the bowl 23 is by way of apertures 33, duct 31, conduit 41, tube 111, elbow 113 and exhaust tube 117. The elbow 113 has a circular opening 141 formed through its wall at its bend 113B. An elastomer O-ring 143 surrounds the opening 141. Normally the opening 141 is closed by a float valve 149 such that a suction or low pressure can be created by the blower 121 in the passageway formed by tubes 111, 113, and 117. The float valve 149 comprises a flat plate 151 which engages the O-ring 143 when in a closed position to form a seal and which is moved upward to an open position when the water 91 in the tank rises too high such that the excess water will flow into the overflow tube 111 and into the toilet. As shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 8, the valve member 151 has an end 151 A which has loops 151 B connected thereto that extend around a rod 153 which is supported by loops 155 connected to the upper portion of the elbow 113 such that the valve may pivot or move between its closed and open positions as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 7A, and, 7B. Attached to the top of the plate 151 is a float member 161 which can float in water. When the water 91 rises above a given level as shown in FIGS. 4, and 7A the water moves the float member 161 upward which rotates or moves the plate 151 to an open position to allow any excess water to drain into the elbow 113 and hence into the tube 111 until the water level is lowered sufficient to allow the valve plate 151 to be lowered to a closed position against the O-ring 143 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7B. The water flush opening 87 is located on the side of the tube 81. The usual overflow tube is not of sufficient inside diameter to allow adequate exhaust. The member 81 has a sufficient size to allow the water flush opening to be located on the side of the overflow tube 111 such that an overflow tube with a larger inside diameter may be used. In FIG. 8, member 171 is a water inlet tube for flowing water into the tank 39 after each flush operation. Water from the tube 171 is controlled by a float 173 coupled to a rod 175 which in turn controls a valve located in structure 177 coupled to the top of tube 171.
A toilet odor removal system which uses an overflow tube in the water tank and a float valve to open and close an opening in the overflow tube for water overflow purposes and for odor removal purposes respectively. The overflow tube extends through a side wall of the water tank to an exhaust system.
4
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to a wind turbine, a control arrangement, a method of controlling a control system being multiplied by at least one further control system for controlling the same equipment under control of a wind turbine and uses hereof. DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART Wind turbines are designed to face harsh and changing weather in a long period of years and still show a high dependability. Previously, the dependability has been achieved by designing wind turbines with a certain over-sizing in relation to the required under normal use of the wind turbine. The tower, wind turbine blades and breaking systems may for example be over-sized in order to handle extreme weather situation or excessive forces during a malfunction such as loss of utility grid or control of the wind turbine rotor. However, it is an increasing challenge to transport and handle the wind turbine components of large modern wind turbines. Consequently, the over-sized components are a significant problem in relation to size and weight during transport and handling as well as expensive in material costs. Previously, it has also been known to have more than one component of a kind in a wind turbine. The redundancy is especially used with the components which face significant mechanical stress e.g. a hydraulic pitch actuator. The extra component may take on the workload in a short period after a main component has failed until the repair people arrive and thus enhances the availability and dependability of the wind turbine. However, the more than one component of a kind does not change or solve the above-mentioned problem regarding size and weight as well as material costs of wind turbine components. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention establishes technique allowing more weight- and cost-efficient wind turbines to be built. The invention relates to a wind turbine where the control system is multiplied by at least one further control system for controlling the same of said equipment under control. Hereby is established a wind turbine without the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art. The elimination of single points of failure possibility in the control of equipment under control by securing the functionality on system level is advantageous. With the enhancing of the safety level and thus the reliability of the wind turbine it is possible to design the different wind turbine components to normal use and fatigue instead of designing for extreme loads. The wind turbine tower may for example be designed with a “normal sized” material tightness as risk of malfunctions such as the risk of dangerous rotor overspeed due to loss of control is significantly diminished. The saved materials of a “normal sized” tower and other structural components of the wind turbine may exceed 25%. The term “equipment under control” and “main components” should especially be understood as the wind turbine blades, gear (if any) and generator of the wind turbine. The term “control system” should be understood as a system supervising and controlling a main component and including the necessary components in doing so. In an aspect of the invention, said equipment under control being main components of the wind turbine such as the wind turbine blades. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems being operating simultaneously and independently of each other. Hereby it is possible to continuously control the main component regardless that one control system fails. The wind turbine may thus continue to generate power until replacement of the failed system can be performed or be shut down in a controlled manner. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems being operating simultaneously with dependent supervision of each other. Hereby, it is ensured that the control systems work together in an advantageously control of a main component. In an aspect of the invention, said equipment under control comprises at least one pitch or active stall wind turbine blade. It is advantageous to use the invention in connection with large wind turbine blades as the pitch mechanism of each blade also is the only brake system of the rotor. In an aspect of the invention, said at least one wind turbine blade is part of a wind turbine with two or three blades. It is especially advantageous to use the invention in connection with two-bladed wind turbines as loss of control in one blade may result in loss of the ability to stop the wind turbine rotor as such. In an aspect of the invention, said wind turbine comprises a teeter mechanism including teeter angle sensors. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems include the supervision systems for said pitch or active stall wind turbine blades. In an aspect of the invention, one of said control systems comprises pitch and/or teeter components e.g. sensors such as blade load sensors, pitch position sensors, azimuth sensors and/or teeter angle sensors, actuators such as pitch actuators and/or teeter actuators, power supplies including UPS and/or controllers such as microcomputers. Hereby it is ensured that any type of failure is not fatal as the components of the system is multiplied and consequently that the one or more remaining control systems may continue the normal control of the wind turbine or at least stop the wind turbine in a controlled manner. In an aspect of the invention, sensors in one of said control system are positioned differently in relation to the positions of the corresponding sensors in further of said control systems. Hereby it is ensured that damage to a section of the wind turbine component such as a pitch wind turbine blade e.g. by a stroke of lightning at sensors of the control system does not automatically affect the sensors of the further control system. In an aspect of the invention, the wind turbine comprises more than two control systems e.g. three or four control systems. The number of further control systems may be chosen by the risk of damage to the system in order to achieve the necessary reliability of the wind turbine. The number may for example be chosen by the type of wind turbine, two or three-bladed, the place of erecting the wind turbine, frequent lightning storms, and the accessibility of the wind turbine e.g. an off-shore wind turbine. In an aspect of the invention, the wind turbine comprises at least two control systems wherein one or more components of said systems are multiplied by at least two or three such as more than two pitch components, teeter components and/or controllers. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems include a number of central controllers. Hereby, it is easier to position the controllers in a protected and safe environment. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems include a number of distributed controllers e.g. controllers distributed at the wind turbine hub, the main shaft, the root of the wind turbine blade and/or inside the blade. Hereby, it is possible to enhance the reliability of the control systems as they may continue working if distributed controllers of one equipment under control fail. The distributed controllers of other equipment under control may take over the control from the failed controllers e.g. the controllers of one blade may control the control systems of two blades due to a failure in the controllers of one blade caused by a stroke of lightning in the blade. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems are connected by cables such as individual cables between the components. Hereby are established separate connection circuits between the different sets and thus enhancing the high reliability of the control systems even further. In an aspect of the invention, control systems are connected by a communication bus system e.g. using copper cables and/or fiber optic communication cables, radio and/or wireless communication connections such as bluetooth connections. The use of separate connection circuits, fiber optic communication cables and/or wireless communication especially ensures a higher reliability against malfunction after a stroke of lightning. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems being partly or fully identical systems. Hereby, it is possible to enhance the common safety level of the control systems. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems being a multiplied redundancy system. Hereby is an advantageous embodiment of the invention achieved. The invention also relates to a control arrangement for a wind turbine rotor including at least two wind turbine blades, wherein said arrangement comprises a plurality of control systems for controlling the same wind turbine blade or the same part of the wind turbine blade, wherein at least controllers of said plurality of control systems are distributed at the wind turbine blade or the same part of the wind turbine blade being controlled, and wherein said control systems are connected. Hereby, it is possible to enhance the safety of the control of the wind turbine rotor as the arrangement includes distributed but connected controllers whereby the control arrangement may continue controlling the wind turbine blades regardless of failure in one or more controllers. In an aspect of the invention, said controllers include one or more microprocessors. In an aspect of the invention, said control systems are connected by a communication bus system e.g. using copper cables and/or fiber optic communication cables, radio and/or wireless communication connections such as bluetooth connections. The bus system ensures that any data may be shared among the control systems and the controllers. Hereby, it is ensured that any blade in the wind turbine rotor may remain under control regardless of failure in some of the control systems and controllers. In an aspect of the invention, said controllers are distributed at the wind turbine hub, the main shaft, the root of the wind turbine blade and/or inside the blade. By positioning the controllers locally in proximity of the equipment under control a simpler and more reliable construction of a control arrangement is achieved. The invention also relates to a method of controlling a control system being multiplied by at least one further control system for controlling the same equipment under control of a wind turbine according to any of claims 1 to 18 . In aspects of the invention, said control systems are operated simultaneously and independently of each other or in dependency of each other by exchanging control communication. Hereby are advantageous embodiments of the invention achieved. In an aspect of the invention, control communication is transferred on a communication bus system connecting said control systems. In a further aspect of the invention, said communication is transferred on a communication bus system between central or distributed controllers. Hereby are advantageous embodiments of the invention achieved. The invention also relates to uses of a wind turbine, control arrangement and method in connection with emergency stop of the wind turbine during extreme situations such as weather situations or loss of a utility grid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES The invention will be described in the following with reference to the figures in which FIG. 1 illustrates a large modern wind turbine including three wind turbine blades in the wind turbine rotor, FIG. 2 illustrates schematically a section of a wind turbine according to the invention, FIG. 3 illustrates schematically a central control system of a three-bladed wind turbine, FIG. 4 illustrates the control system of FIG. 3 in further details, FIG. 5 illustrates the control system of FIG. 3 in details for a two bladed wind turbine, FIG. 6 illustrates schematically a control arrangement including distributed control systems of a three-bladed wind turbine, FIG. 7 illustrates the control arrangement including distributed control systems of a two-bladed wind turbine in details, and FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the control arrangement including distributed control systems of a two-bladed wind turbine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION FIG. 1 illustrates a modern wind turbine 1 with a tower 2 and a wind turbine nacelle 3 positioned on top of the tower. The blades 5 of the wind turbine rotor are connected to the nacelle through the low speed shaft which extends out of the nacelle front. As illustrated in the figure, wind over a certain level will activate the rotor and allow it to rotate in a perpendicular direction to the wind. The rotation movement is converted to electric power which usually is supplied to the transmission grid as will be known by skilled persons within the area. FIG. 2 illustrates schematically the equipment under control, i.e. the wind turbine blades 5 , the gear 9 , and the electric generator 7 . The equipment under control are supervised and controlled by control systems 14 of a wind turbine according to the invention. The wind turbine further comprises the low and high speed shafts 10 , 8 connecting the wind turbine blades 5 , the gear 9 , and the electric generator 7 . Teeter mechanism allows the wind turbine blades to be angled in relation to a vertical plane. The control systems 14 may supervise and control any of the equipment under control, such as the wind turbine blades 5 , during normal use and stopping of the wind turbine. According to the invention the control systems 14 comprise a first control system 14 A which is multiplied by at least one further control system 14 B for supervising and controlling the same equipment under control. The control systems 14 A, 14 B are preferably identical systems in construction and performing the same functionality. They may operate simultaneously and independently of each other in supervising and controlling the same equipment under control. FIG. 3 illustrates schematically a central control system of a three-bladed wind turbine. The figure illustrates how the wind turbine blades are centrally controlled from control systems wherein communication between components in the control systems and the blades are performed on a communication bus. The communication bus may be wired connections e.g. a communication bus system using copper cables and/or fiber optic communication cables. Further, the communication bus may include radio and/or wireless communication connections such as bluetooth connections between the control systems. The communication bus may for example use standard LAN technique. The connection between the individual components of the control systems and the blades may be established by separate or common cables e.g. separate power cables transferring power to each relevant component. FIG. 4 illustrates the central control system of FIG. 3 in further details wherein the control systems 14 A, 14 B are part of a three-bladed wind turbine. Each set of control systems 14 A, 14 B comprises one or more microcontroller 17 , μCtrl A, μCtrl B collecting, treating and transmitting data such as collecting data from the control system sensors in the relevant equipment under control and transmitting control data to control system components controlling the relevant equipment under control. Examples of control system sensors and components are pitch position and blade load sensors as well as pitch actuators in relation to one wind turbine blade 5 . The blade arrangement is replicated in all the blades 5 . Further, each set of control systems 14 A, 14 B may comprise an azimuth sensor 15 transmitting data to the blade microcontrollers 17 . The two microcontrollers 17 of the sets of control systems 14 A, 14 B are power supplied from their own separate power supplies 16 in which each power supply includes an uninterruptible power supply UPS A, UPS B. The two UPS power the control systems and allow the wind turbine to be controlled and stopped at a power blackout e.g. caused by a direct stroke of lightning on a power line. The control system sensors of different sets may be positioned in proximity of each other e.g. one blade load sensor close to the next blade load sensor but preferably not at the same position on the wind turbine blade 5 . FIG. 5 illustrates the central control system of FIG. 3 in a two-bladed wind turbine. The structure of the control systems 14 A, 14 B of FIG. 4 substantially corresponds to the systems of FIG. 4 . The situation of one blade less may initiate the use more than two identical control systems e.g. three or four control systems in order to enhance the security level against the wind turbine being damaged as a subsequent consequence of more than one control system malfunction. The control system according to the invention may also be used in relation to other main components beside the wind turbine blades. The control system may for example also be used in connection with supervising and controlling the electric generator and thus ensuring that the generator does not face damaging work conditions as a subsequent consequence of a control system malfunction. FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a control arrangement including distributed control systems of a three-bladed wind turbine. The figure illustrates how each wind turbine blade is controlled from control systems positioned locally at each blade. The communication between components in the control systems and the blades are performed on a communication bus e.g. corresponding to the communication bus mentioned in connection with FIG. 3 . FIG. 7 illustrates a control arrangement including the distributed control systems of a two-bladed wind turbine in details. The figure illustrates how the control system of each blade is multiplied e.g. in relation to sensors, controllers and power supplies including UPS. The controllers are connected in a local area network LAN and such may communicate and supervise each others functionality. FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the control arrangement including distributed control systems in a two-bladed wind turbine. The controllers of the figure are connected by a communication bus in a LAN and as such establish multiplied controllers; controller 1 , controller 2 and controller of the figure. The wind turbine according to the invention may be part of a wind park where every wind turbine is connected to a central control station that responds to failure messages from the wind turbines such as a failed control system e.g. by sending maintenance people or a stop signal to the wind turbine. The invention has been exemplified above with reference to specific examples of a wind turbine with control systems. The system may control the wind turbine in use or during a stopping process at a malfunction of one control system e.g. an emergency stop. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular examples described above but may be designed and altered in a multitude of varieties within the scope of the invention as specified in the claims.
A wind turbine ( 1 ) comprising equipment under control is presented, which comprises at least one control system ( 14, 14 A, 14 B) for one or more of said main components, ( 5, 7, 9 ) of the wind turbine. The control system ( 14 A) is multiplied by at least one further control system ( 14 B) for controlling the same of said equipment under control. A control arrangement, a method as well as uses hereof are also presented.
5
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to an optical scanning device having an improved response characteristic, for use in an apparatus for optically reading or writing information in one or more tracks on a recording medium, which may be, for example, a compact disc (known as a CD), a digital versatile disc (known as a DVD), a CD or DVD which can be written to, or else a magneto-optical recording medium. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Scanning devices for optical recording media are generally known. The construction and operation of an optical scanning apparatus, of a so-called optical pickup, are described in Electronic Components & Applications, Vol. 6, No. 4, 1984, pages 209-215. Such scanning devices have a so-called actuator on which an objective lens is arranged, which is provided for tracking and for focusing the light beam or laser beam on the optical recording medium. In principle, optical scanning devices may be distinguished by the way in which the objective lens is suspended. For example, in the case of a known leaf-spring actuator, the objective lens holder is secured by means of four parallel leaf springs on a frame, cf. EP-A 0 178 077. The disadvantages are that such spring arrangements have an undesirable tendency to oscillate and involve a high level of assembly complexity. Parallel guidance of the objective lens holder is also achieved by an actuator of the jointed or hinged type, as is known, for example, from EP-B 0 563 034. An actuator with parallel guidance has been found to be relatively stable in terms of tilting of the objective lens during deflection, but involves a high level of adjustment complexity since it needs to be aligned exactly in terms of the movement directions that are guided by joints. Another type of objective lens holder is to use four wires which, as bearing elements, connect the objective lens holder to the actuator baseplate. Socalled wire pick-ups can be produced more costeffectively than optical scanning devices having a leaf spring or joint. However, they have been found to be disadvantageous in comparison with other parallel guides, in terms of tilting of the objective lens and guidance characteristics. One quality criterion of optical scanning devices is their response characteristic, in which case the term response characteristic means the reaction of the optical scanning device to control signals by means of which the scanning device is deflected for focusing or for tracking, in order to scan a specific point on the recording medium or to follow the movement of the recording medium. The movement of the optical scanning device is intended to follow the applied control signals very accurately. However, as a rule, excitation of a mechanical system leads to sympathetic oscillation in the region of the resonant frequency and to a so-called resonance peak which has a negative effect on the response characteristic and the reaction of the optical scanning device to control signals. Since the resonant frequency is frequently in the range that is audible by the human ear, this effect is furthermore evident in a negative manner as so-called howling. U.S. Pat. No. 4,477,755 has already disclosed the use of a circuit arrangement for electronic compensation of optical and mechanical instabilities in the focusing and tracking control loop in order to avoid mechanical resonances and howling. The circuit arrangement contains a model of the mechanical system, by means of which the reaction of the scanning device to control signals is monitored, and the movement of the scanning device is stopped if a predetermined threshold value is exceeded. For this purpose, the circuit contains a filter and a variable-gain amplifier in order to produce a control signal compensation component at a selected frequency in the region of the frequencies at which mechanical resonances are significant. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The object of the invention is to provide an optical scanning device which, without any electronic compensation means, very largely avoids resonance peaks and has an improved response characteristic. This object is achieved by the features of the invention specified in independent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are specified in dependent claims. One aspect of the invention is to design an optical scanning device in such a manner that it follows applied control signals as uniformly as possible and without any resonance peak occurring. It has been found that resonance phenomena are significantly influenced by the characteristics of a retaining plate on which the means for bearing the objective lens holder are secured. It has been found that disadvantageous resonance peaks are avoided by the means for bearing the objective lens holder being supported in a flexible manner. On the other hand, the options for selecting an oscillation-damping material for the retaining plate are limited, since, on the one hand, the retaining plate has to bear the weight of the objective lens and the objective lens holder and, on the other hand, it is necessary to ensure that the actuator returns to its original position after it has been deflected. This means that the retaining plate must not be deformed by either force or temperature influences. The contradictory requirements for high flexibility and high strength are satisfied by a retaining plate in which those points on the retaining plate which hold the bearing elements for the objective lens holder are very largely mechanically decoupled. The mechanical decoupling of those points on the retaining plate which hold the bearing elements for the objective lens holder is achieved by a retaining plate which has notches or cutouts in the surface which holds the bearing elements for the objective lens holder. These notches are provided in such a way that, on the one hand, straight edges of the surface which holds the bearing elements are interrupted by notches or openings in the form of slots and, on the other hand, cutouts are provided in the interior of the surface to reduce the effective area between the mounting points for the bearing elements of the objective lens. In one version of the invention, the mounting points are designed as island surfaces which are connected via constrictions to the surface which bears them. This type of configuration for the retaining plate significantly improves the response characteristic of the optical scanning device, and resonance peaks are avoided. The term response characteristic means, in particular, the reaction of the optical scanning device to control signals, as reflected in the frequency response and the relative phase, and in the transfer function of the control signals to the optical scanning system. Resonance peaks are very largely avoided without any electronic compensation means. This effect is rather surprising since it had to be assumed that supporting the bearing elements of the objective lens on a comparatively more highly sprung surface would lead to increased resonance peaks. The said retaining plate is preferably combined with a second retaining plate to form a retaining system, in which case the second retaining plate makes it possible in an advantageous manner for the first retaining plate to be designed to be thinner, for additional damping to be ensured in the lower frequency range and, furthermore, for the maximum deflection of the actuator to be limited. In the case of one configuration which is provided as a wire pick-up, the wires which are provided as bearing elements are passed through openings in the second retaining plate and are secured on the first retaining plate by, for example, a soldering process. The intermediate space which then remains in the openings for the wire in the second retaining plate is then filled with a filling compound. Silicone is preferably used as the filling compound in order to damp resonance peaks that occur in the low-frequency range. Although it had to be assumed that embedding the wires used as bearing elements in silicone in the second retaining plate would significantly damp resonance peaks, it was found, however, that this is true only to an insufficient extent. The desired response characteristic is achieved only in combination with the first retaining plate according to the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention will be explained in more detail in the following text using an exemplary embodiment and with reference to drawings, in which: FIG. 1 shows an outline sketch of a retaining plate of an optical scanning device having an improved response characteristic, FIG. 2 shows an outline sketch of a side view of an optical scanning device having an improved response characteristic, FIG. 3 shows an outline sketch of a plan view of an optical scanning device having an improved response characteristic, FIG. 4 shows an outline sketch of a plan view of a second retaining plate of an optical scanning device having limiting means, FIG. 5 shows an outline sketch of a front view of a second retaining plate of an optical scanning device having limiting means, FIG. 6 shows an outline sketch of a side view of a second retaining plate of an optical scanning device having limiting means, FIG. 7 shows a frequency response and phase diagram of an optical scanning device having a known retaining plate in the focusing direction, FIG. 8 shows a frequency response and phase diagram of an optical scanning device having a retaining plate according to the invention in the focusing direction, FIG. 9 shows a frequency response and phase diagram of an optical scanning device having a known retaining plate in the tracking direction, FIG. 10 shows a frequency response and phase diagram of an optical scanning device having a retaining plate according to the invention in the tracking direction, FIG. 11 shows an outline sketch of an objective lens holder which is secured by wires on a known retaining plate, FIG. 12 shows an outline sketch relating to the assembly of an objective lens holder, which is secured by wires on a known retaining plate, to form an actuator, FIG. 13 shows an outline sketch of the conductor side of an optical scanning device having a known retaining plate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The same reference symbols are used in all the figures. FIG. 11 shows an outline sketch of a known objective lens holder OH, which is secured by wires W on a known retaining plate HP. Four wires W, which are secured on the retaining plate HP, bear an objective lens holder OH, arranged on which there are an objective lens O which is provided for focusing and tracking the light beam or laser beam on an optical recording medium, and coils SP for deflecting the objective lens O. The wires W, which are used as bearing elements, in this case form a flexible support for the objective lens holder OH, and are at the same time used to supply electrical power to the coils SP arranged on the objective lens holder OH. The retaining plate HP on which the objective lens holder OH is supported by the four wires W is formed by a rectangular surface which, corresponding to FIG. 12, is connected to a web S on a baseplate G, which web S extends at right angles from the baseplate G. In consequence, corresponding to FIG. 12, the coils SP provided in recesses in the objective lens holder OH are moved to a position which allows interaction with magnet webs MS 1 ; MS 2 . The magnet webs MS 1 ; MS 2 likewise extend at right angles from the baseplate G and parallel to the web S to which the retaining plate HP is secured, and form a magnetic field which, by interacting with the magnetic fields produced by the coils SP allows the objective lens O to be deflected in a desired manner from a rest position. The magnetic field originating from the magnet webs MS 1 ; MS 2 is preferably produced by at least one permanent magnet M, which is secured to a magnet web MS 1 . As already mentioned, electrical power is supplied to the coils SP provided on the objective lens holder OH via the wires W by means of which the objective lens holder OH is secured on the retaining plate HP. In order to secure the wires W, a retaining plate HP illustrated in FIG. 13 has solder points LP 1 , LP 2 , LP 3 , LP 4 , which are provided as holes in a retaining plate HP designed as a printed circuit board. The wires W are passed through the holes and are connected by soldering to the retaining plate HP on which solder lands are provided, for this purpose, in the region of the holes. The solder lands or solder points LP 1 , LP 2 , LP 3 , LP 4 are connected via conductor tracks to connection points AP, to which control signals for deflecting the objective lens O are supplied. In addition, pin openings DO 1 ; DO 2 are provided in the retaining plate HP, for alignment of the retaining plate HP on the web S, and a mounting opening BMO is provided for fitting of the retaining plate HP. As has been determined by measurements, such optical scanning devices have the disadvantage that they do not unconditionally follow the applied control signals. The deflection of the objective lens holder OH with the objective lens O and the coils SP represents a mechanical excitation and leads, in critical frequency ranges, to a so-called resonance peak, as is illustrated in principle in FIGS. 7 and 9 by the response characteristic's deviations from a profile that is as uniform as possible. Such resonance peaks not only have a disadvantageous influence on the control or regulation characteristic of the optical scanning device but, owing to oscillation in the audible frequency range, also lead to so-called howling in a disadvantageous manner. As a rule, suppression of resonance peaks requires additional measures in the provision of the control signals, as can be achieved, for example, by equalization for linearization of the frequency response. In order to avoid disadvantageous characteristics and in order to save additional means for driving optical scanning devices, an optical scanning device is proposed which has an improved response characteristic. This is characterized by a retaining plate HP 1 as illustrated in FIG. 1, which has cutouts in the surface which holds the bearing elements for the objective lens holder OH in the solder points LP 1 . . . LP 4 , which cutouts separate the mounting points or solder points LP . . . LP 4 from one another. The mounting points or solder points LP 1 . . . LP 4 are designed as island surfaces, which are connected via constrictions to the surface which bears them. The fact that resonance peaks are avoided by a retaining plate HP 1 designed in such a way is rather surprising in the case of the optical scanning system according to the invention, since it was also possible to find the intended effect using a retaining system corresponding to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, comprising a first retaining plate HP 1 and a second retaining plate HP 2 . The optical scanning device illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 has a first retaining plate HP 1 and a second retaining plate HP 2 , on which the wires W are supported which are used as bearing elements for the objective lens holder OH. The wires W in this case form a flexible support for the objective lens holder OH, on which the objective lens O and a focusing coil F as well as tracking coils T are arranged. Control signals are applied to the focusing coil F and/or tracking coils T and produce a magnetic field in these coils, which magnetic field interacts with a magnetic field produced by two permanent magnets M 1 , M 2 to allow the objective lens O to be deflected from a rest position. The wires W that are used as bearing elements are used to supply the control signals to the focusing coil F and tracking coils T and are connected at solder pads L to the objective lens holder OH and to the first retaining plate HP 1 . The permanent magnets M 1 , M 2 are secured on magnet webs MS 1 , MS 2 which project at right angles from a baseplate G, and the first retaining plate HP 1 and the second retaining plate HP 2 are connected via a securing means BM to a web S, which likewise projects at right angles from the baseplate G. The first retaining plate HP 1 is in this case aligned, by means of pin openings DO 1 , DO 2 provided in the first retaining plate HP 1 , with corresponding pins D on the second retaining plate HP 2 . In order to assemble the objective lens holder OH with the retaining system comprising a first retaining plate HP 1 and a second retaining plate HP 2 , the baseplate G and the objective lens holder OH are fixed in a jig, and the wires W which connect the retaining system to the objective lens holder OH are connected by soldering, preferably with the wires W being pre-stressed at solder pads L, to the objective lens holder OH and to the first retaining plate HP 1 . To this end, the wires W are placed on solder pads L on the objective lens holder OH and are passed through holes B provided in the second retaining plate HP 2 . FIGS. 4 to 6 show three views of the second retaining plate HP 2 . The holes B are indicated in FIGS. 4 and 5, and have side openings SO corresponding to FIG. 5 . These side openings SO are provided in order to fill the intermediate space between the wire W and the second retaining plate HP 2 with silicone after the wires W have been passed through. The silicone which fills the intermediate space between the wire W and the second retaining plate HP 2 in this case acts as a damping material, in order to counteract resonance phenomena. A second mounting opening BO 2 , which is indicated in FIG. 5 and corresponds to the first mounting opening BO 1 in the first retaining plate HP 1 , is provided in the second retaining plate HP 2 in order to secure the second retaining plate HP 2 to the web S on the baseplate G. The first retaining plate HP 1 is aligned with the second retaining plate HP 2 during assembly, by pins D indicated in FIG. 4 . Furthermore, the second retaining plate HP 2 has securing webs BS which are indicated in FIGS. 4 and 6 and limit upward deflection of the objective lens holder OH in an advantageous manner. The objective lens holder OH is connected to the retaining system just via the four wires W and can then not be deflected into an impermissible range by the action of high acceleration forces, such as those which occur if it is dropped, which impermissible range would prevent automatic return to the original rest position due to the elastic limit of the system having been exceeded. The second retaining plate HP 2 thus carries out a number of functions, which comprise support for the first retaining plate HP 1 , damping of the wires W and limiting the deflection of the objective lens holder OH. Although oscillations of the objective lens holder OH and of the wires W are actually damped by the silicone inserted into the intermediate spaces between the wire W and the second retaining plate HP 2 , it has been found that the response characteristic of the optical scanning device is significantly influenced by the first retaining plate HP 1 . This becomes clear from measurements that have been carried out, and whose results are shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 . FIG. 7 shows a frequency response and phase diagram of an optical scanning device having a known retaining plate HP in the focusing direction, showing the response sensitivity FREQRESP in decibels dB as well as the phase angle Phase in degrees Deg logarithmically Log plotted against the frequency F in Hertz Hz in a range up to five kilohertz 5K. The subsequent frequency response and phase diagrams use an equivalent scale. The diagram, shown in FIG. 7, of an optical scanning device having a known retaining plate HP shows considerable discrepancies from a uniform profile in the range between 800 and 900 Hz, both in terms of the response sensitivity FREQRESP and in terms of the phase angle Phase. These resonance peaks were found in an optical scanning device whose construction corresponds to the optical scanning device according to the invention and shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, but with the difference that a known retaining plate HP was used as the retaining plate HP 1 . Comparison with the diagram, illustrated in FIG. 8, of an optical scanning device having a retaining plate HP 1 according to the invention demonstrates the surprising effect that the disadvantageous characteristics in terms of the response sensitivity FREQRESP and the phase angle Phase are avoided with the retaining plate HP 1 , in comparable conditions. The scanning device according to the invention and having the characteristics shown in FIG. 8 has an improved response characteristic, since both the frequency response and phase response have a uniform profile and no resonance peaks occur. The said effect occurs not only in the focusing direction but also in the tracking direction, as the following diagrams in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 clearly demonstrate. FIG. 9 shows the frequency response and phase diagram of the optical scanning device shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 having a known retaining plate HP, in the tracking direction, and FIG. 10 shows the frequency response and phase diagram of the same optical scanning device having a retaining plate HP 1 according to the invention, in the tracking direction. Although it had to be assumed that resonance peaks can be avoided by embedding the wires W in silicone in the second retaining plate HP 2 , it was found that this is appropriate only to an inadequate extent, since the first retaining plate HP 1 , according to the invention, showed that only its configuration leads to the desired success. The invention is not limited to the version of the optical scanning device described here, but applies in general to optical scanning devices in which the objective lens holder OH is supported on a retaining plate HP by bearing elements.
An optical scanning device having an improved response characteristic, for use in an apparatus for optically reading or writing information in one or more tracks on a recording medium. The object of the invention is to provide an optical scanning device which, without any electronic compensation means, very largely avoids resonance peaks and has an improved response characteristic. According to the invention, this object is achieved by a retaining plate which supports the objective lens of the scanning device via bearing elements and has at least one cutout, which separates the mounting points, in the surface which holds the bearing elements for the objective lens holder. The field of application of the invention is optical scanning devices having an improved response characteristic for use in equipment for reading or writing information on an optical recording medium, such as a CD, DVD, a CD or DVD which can be written to, or else a magneto-optical recording medium, for example.
6
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a device for separating the phases of a three-phase fluid of the crude oil type, a method for separating the phases of said fluid, and a method for converting a two-phase fluid separating device into a three-phase fluid separating device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Crude oil and natural gas are usually obtained from underground formations, from which they are extracted through deep perforations. Generally, the fluid obtained from oil deposits consists of a mixture of oil, gas and brine. [0003] Once the crude oil is extracted, along with gas and water, it is sent to batteries or collecting stations where separation of the different fluids and measuring of the volume produced by the different wells are performed. [0004] Usually, two-phase separators are used for a first, gas-liquid separation, so the gas, after eventual dehydration and sweetening, can be sent for its utilization by means of gas pipelines, while the liquid phase containing oil and water can be sent as such by means of oil pipelines or can undergo a first step of separation in treatment plants before being distributed to oil refineries. It is also possible to use horizontal three-phase separators of the Free Water Knock Out (FWKO) for separating under pressure, gas, water and oil. However, such kind of equipment is usually expensive and very complex in design. [0005] For decades, devices and systems for phase separation for the oil industry have been subject of patents, as can be appreciated for example in U.S. Pat. No. 2,984,360, which discloses a device for separating fluids by means of their differences in density, in particular fluids from an oil field. Such device also has a system that uses a floater for detecting the level of liquid. [0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,205,310 discloses a method for measuring productivity of marginal oil wells which employs a separator, equipped with level sensors. Although said patent focuses mostly on a separator of oil/water phases, presence of gas at the inlet of the separator is also contemplated. Nevertheless, such device has low-efficiency in terms of cost and investment required and its construction is complex. Additionally, such device uses a water cut measuring system in which, if the cut is too high, measuring becomes difficult because of the working range of the equipment used to this end. This is due to the fact that, in the equipment for measuring mass flow, measuring error is at least 5%, and in cases of elevated water cut, which could be over 95%, the reading performed by the equipment falls within the minimal margin of error of the equipment. This renders the measuring very unreliable. For this reason, it is preferable to separate and measure water alone. [0007] Patent application WO 00/51707 A1 discloses a three-phase separator for a mixture containing a gaseous phase and two liquid phases. Such separator includes a “primary separator” in the inlet flow, allowing separation of gas from the liquid phases. Said primary separator can be any gas-liquid separation device (in particular, a Shoepentoeter type valve) which can be placed in the space of the gaseous phase, as can be seen in the description. The equipment is of the horizontal separator type, the construction of which is complex and burdensome, and the feeding system is included within the separator. [0008] Patent application US 2011/186134 A1 discloses a device for splitting a two-phase flux comprising a “T” joint for separating the fluid. The orientation of the feeding line is substantially vertical, and its interior is conformed for inducing a tangential movement of the phases such as the heavier phase is distributed around the periphery of the feeding line. [0009] Use of two steps of two-phase separation or expensive three-phase separators constitute an obstacle for achieving a cost reduction and originate a permanent need for new, low cost, efficient three-phase separation systems which also have a low impact on the environment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0010] The present invention solves the need for a low cost three-phase separation and measuring device which reduces control times, is easy to operate and which performs reliable measurements, a need specially present in mature oil reservoirs, [0011] Furthermore, the present invention solves such needs by means of vertical two-phase separators, which are among the elements more often used in the oil industry, without having to invest large amounts of money in horizontal three-phase separators. [0012] As it is well known in the art, when oil reservoirs approach completion, two phase separators are no longer suitable and fall into disuse. The present invention allows prolonging their lifespan, utilizing them in reservoirs near depletion, transforming said two-phase vertical separators into three-phase vertical separators, so as to streamline well control operations, and eliminate control tanks and errors associated with measurements. [0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a three-phase vertical separator device for separating a three-phase fluid into the corresponding gas, oil and water phases, comprising: i. a vertical separator which comprises: a. a first fluid inlet on its upper portion, and a second fluid inlet on its middle portion; and b. a first fluid outlet line for the gas phase in the upper part of said separator, above said first fluid inlet; a second fluid outlet line for the oil phase in the middle portion of said separator, above said second fluid inlet, and a third fluid outlet line for the water phase in the bottom portion of said separator; and ii. a horizontal fluid feed line that splits into two lines prior to entering the vertical separator by means of a “T” joint, thereby forming a first vertical ascending feed line and a second vertical descending feed line; wherein the first vertical ascending fluid feed line is connected to said first fluid inlet of the vertical separator and wherein said second vertical descending fluid feed line is connected to said second fluid inlet of the vertical separator. [0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises: i. a water phase discharge valve, located on the third fluid outlet line for the water phase; ii. an oil phase discharge valve, located on the second fluid outlet line for the oil phase, iii. an interfase level sensor of the floater type with a ballast, referred to hereinafter as the interfase floater sensor, located approximately in the middle portion of the vertical separator; and iv. a high level sensor of the floater type, referred to hereinafter as the high level floater sensor, located in the vertical separator at the maximum desired level for all liquid phases inside the vertical separator; wherein the interfase level sensor is connected to and controls the opening and closing of the water phase discharge valve and where the high level sensor is connected to and controls the opening and closing of the oil phase discharge valve. [0024] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises a positive displacement flow meter on the second fluid outlet line for the oil phase. [0025] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises a magneto-inductive sensor on the third fluid outlet line for the water phase. [0026] It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for separating a three-phase fluid into the corresponding gas, oil and water phases, comprising: i. separating a horizontal three-phase fluid feed flow into two fluid flows, a first vertical ascending fluid flow and a second vertical descending fluid flow, by means of a pipe bifurcation using a “T” joint; ii. directing said first vertical ascending flow to enter the upper portion of a vertical separator, and directing said second vertical descending fluid flow to enter the middle portion of said separator, producing thereby the separation of said three-phase fluid into its respective gas, oil and water phases within the vertical separator; and iii. extracting the gas phase from the upper portion of said vertical separator, extracting the oil phase from the middle portion of said vertical separator, and extracting said water phase from the bottom portion of said vertical separator by means of respective fluid outlet lines. [0030] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises: i. detecting the level of the oil-water interfase inside the vertical separator by means of a first interfase level sensor of the floater type with a ballast; ii. controlling the water phase extraction by opening or closing a water phase discharge valve depending on the level of the oil-water interfase measured by said oil-water interfase level sensor; iii. detecting the maximum level of all liquid phases inside the vertical separator by means of a second level sensor of the floater type; and iv. controlling the oil phase extraction by opening or closing an oil phase discharge valve depending on the level of the liquid phase measured by said second level sensor. [0035] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises measuring the oil phase output flow by means of a positive displacement flow meter. [0036] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises measuring the water phase output flow by means of a magneto-inductive sensor. [0037] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises determining the amount of oil in water in the water phase output by means of a colorimetric analysis. [0038] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises determining the amount of water in oil in the oil phase output by means of centrifugation. [0039] It is yet another object if the preset invention to provide a method for converting a two-phase vertical separator into a three-phase vertical separator, comprising: i. providing a two-phase vertical separator, which comprises a separator body; a three-phase fluid horizontal feed line entering said separator through a first fluid inlet in the middle portion thereof; a gas phase outlet with a corresponding relief valve; a liquid phase output line, controlled by a liquid phase discharge valve; and a liquid phase level sensor of the floater type which controls the level of the liquid phase and commands the opening and closing of said discharge valve, depending on the level of the liquid phase; ii. disconnecting said three-phase fluid horizontal feed line, and providing the same, in proximity to the vertical separator, with a “T” joint for splitting said three-phase fluid horizontal feed line into a first vertical ascending fluid feed line and a second vertical descending fluid feed line; iii. providing said vertical separator with a second fluid inlet on the upper portion thereof; connecting said first vertical ascending fluid feed line to said second fluid inlet of the vertical separator; and connecting the second vertical descending fluid feed line to said first fluid inlet of the vertical separator; iv. providing said liquid phase level sensor of the floater type with a ballast, thereby converting said sensor into an oil-water interfase sensor, and measuring the level of the oil-water interfase by means thereof; v. discharging fluid from the water phase by means of said liquid phase discharge valve, so that the same opens when said oil-water interfase sensor registers a high level of the water phase, and closes when said sensor registers a low level of water phase; vi. providing the vertical separator with a level sensor of the floater type, at a maximum desired level for all liquid phases inside the separator, for controlling the level thereof; vii. providing the vertical separator with an oil phase fluid outlet, slightly below the level of said liquid phase level sensor, which outlet further comprises an oil phase discharge valve; and viii. connecting said liquid phase level sensor to said oil phase discharge valve, so that the same opens when the sensor registers a high level of all liquid phases inside the separator, thus discharging fluid from the oil phase, and closing when said sensor registers a low level of all liquid phases inside the separator. [0048] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises providing with an elbow the terminal end of the second vertical descending fluid feed line, inside the vertical separator. [0049] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises providing with a perforated tube the terminal end of the first vertical ascending fluid feed line, inside the vertical separator. [0050] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises providing with a magneto-inductive sensor said water phase outlet. [0051] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises providing with a positive displacement flow meter said oil phase outlet. [0052] The device and methods of the present invention provides vertical separator with a very low investment relating to equipment and assembly costs, since it allows the re-use or recycle at the original location of equipment that would otherwise be decommissioned. [0053] Likewise, de device of the present invention features a dynamic operation since its use, restart, calibration, repair, and disassembling are easy. Its operation is stable, without the need for further adjustments once calibrated, its maintenance cost is low and it is versatile, adaptable for a wide range of liquid flows, depending on the capacity of the vessel. It is suitable for use on reservoirs with low GOR (gas oil ratio) and high water cuts of the type encountered on mature reservoirs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0054] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of the separator device for three-phase fluid according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0055] FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of a separator device for a two-phase fluid prior to its conversion into a separator device for a three-phase fluid by means of the method of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0056] The device and methods of the present invention are further described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. [0057] The separator device for three-phase fluids of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1 , comprises a vertical separator 1 for separating a three-phase feed fluid into its corresponding gas, oil and water phases, allowing for the extraction of the corresponding fluids from each one of said phases. [0058] The three-phase feed fluid to be separated comes from a horizontal three-phase fluid feed line 2 . Said horizontal three-phase fluid feed line 2 , in proximity to the vertical separator 1 , comprises a “T” joint 3 , which divides the three-phase fluid feed flow into a first vertical ascending fluid flow feed line 4 and a second vertical descending fluid flow feed line 5 . The first vertical ascending feed line 4 is connected in its upper portion to the vertical separator 1 by an inlet 20 , while the second vertical descending feed line 5 is connected to the vertical separator 1 by an inlet 19 in its middle portion. This division or split into two vertical flow feed lines, one ascending 4 and the other descending 5 , produces a degassing by gravity in the three-phase feed fluid, diverting a gas phase towards the upper portion of the vertical separator 1 , and diverting a liquid phase towards the oil-water interfase portion of the vertical separator 1 . This derivation of the gas phase provides a relatively smooth entry of the liquid to the vertical separator 1 , thereby preventing the creation of gas pockets. Within the vertical separator 1 , the vertical descending feed line 5 , in a preferred embodiment of the invention, comprises an elbow 9 on its terminal end. Said elbow 9 produces a vortex in the fluid which improves the efficiency of the phase separation. [0059] Additionally, within the vertical separator 1 , the vertical ascending feed line 4 , mainly a gas phase, comprises a perforated tube 16 on its terminal end, which helps to obtain a uniform fluid distribution in the entire area of the separator. [0060] On the side of the separator opposite to said inlets for both ascending 4 and descending 5 flows, the vertical separator 1 comprises three fluid outlets, each one being designed for the extraction of fluid from each of the phases respectively. These fluid outlets are a water phase outlet 6 , an oil phase outlet 7 and a gas phase outlet 8 . The water phase outlet 6 is located in the lower part of the vertical separator 1 , the oil phase outlet 7 is located on the middle part of the vertical separator 1 , opposite the “T” joint 3 of the feed line 2 , and the gas phase outlet 8 is located on the upper part of the vertical separator 1 . On one side of the gas phase outlet 8 , the vertical separator 1 comprises a relief valve 17 which protects the device against overpressures. [0061] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inlet 19 of the vertical descending feed line 5 is located on the vertical separator 1 at a height below the oil phase outlet 7 . A pair of valves, a water phase discharge valve 10 and an oil phase discharge valve 11 , control the extraction of fluid through the water phase outlet 6 and the oil phase outlet 7 respectively. The opening and closing of each valve 10 and 11 are controlled by corresponding level sensors of the floater type 12 and 13 . [0062] The first of the level sensors of the floater type, hereby referred to as the interface floater sensor 12 , is located approximately in the middle portion of the vertical separator 1 , under the oil phase outlet 7 and records the level of the water-oil interface. When said interface floater sensor 12 detects an increase in the water phase in the vertical separator 1 , it commands the opening of the water phase discharge valve 10 , thereby discharging water phase fluid through the water phase outlet 6 until the level of said water phase inside the vertical separator 1 falls below the level of the interface floater sensor 12 . In a preferred embodiment of the invention, this discharge of the water phase is recorded by a magneto-inductive sensor 15 . Further analysis to determine the amount of oil in water in the discharge of the water phase may be performed by a colorimetric analysis. [0063] The second level sensor of the floater type, hereby referred to as the high level floater sensor 13 , measures the level of the liquid phase, i.e., the combined level of the oil phase and the water phase, and is located in the vertical separator 1 at the maximum desired level for said liquid phase. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said high level floater sensor 13 is located approximately on the upper third portion of the vertical separator 1 . When said high level floater sensor 13 registers an increase in the oil phase in the vertical separator 1 , it sends a signal to open the oil phase discharge valve 11 , thereby discharging fluid of said oil phase through the oil phase outlet 7 until the level of said phase inside the vertical separator 1 falls below a minimum level. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, this discharge of oil phase is registered by a positive displacement flow meter 14 . Further analysis to determine the amount water in oil in the discharge of the oil phase may be performed by centrifugation. [0064] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the horizontal three-phase fluid feed line 2 , as well as the ascending 4 and descending 5 flow feed lines consist of 4″ pipes, the water phase outlet 6 is 4″ in diameter and the oil phase outlet 7 is 2″ in diameter. [0065] Table 1 shows, by way of an example, an average operating scheme of a preferred embodiment of the device of the present invention, along with the resulting measurements. [0000] TABLE 1 device of the present invention during an example operation scheme. PRODUCTION PARAMETERS DURING OPERATION Feed flow (m 3 /day) 300 Water cut (%) 97 Work pressure (Kg/cm 2 ) 2.5 Work temperature (° C.) 60 GOR (Gas Oil Ratio) (m 3 /m 3 ) 50 Oil density (g/cm 3 ) 0.8795 Water density (g/cm 3 ) 1.03 OBTAINED PRODUCTS Clean water 300 ppm of hydrocarbon in water Oil 1 to 3% of water in oil phase Dry gas (clean) 450 std m 3 /day [0066] The present invention further provides a method for converting a vertical two-phase fluid separator device into a three-phase vertical fluid separator device as described above. FIG. 2 shows, by way of a non-limiting example, a two-phase vertical separator, series model S-150 on which a preferred embodiment of the method of the present invention is carried out. Said two-phase separator comprises a separator body 1 , a 4″ three-phase fluid feed line 2 entering said separator through and inlet 19 , a gas phase outlet 8 with a corresponding relief valve 17 and a 4″ liquid phase discharge pipeline 6 , controlled by a liquid phase discharge valve 10 . Inside the separator 1 , the three-phase fluid feed line 2 comprises an elbow 9 in its terminal end. [0067] A liquid phase level sensor of the floater type 12 regulates the level of the liquid phase and commands the opening of the liquid phase discharge valve 10 when said phase reaches a maximum level. A mass sensor 18 in said discharge line registers the fluid discharge. The method of the present invention is thus applied to this vertical two-phase fluid separator in order to convert it into a three-phase vertical separator. [0068] For this purpose, said three-phase fluid feed line 2 , on a horizontal portion of the same near the entrance to the vertical separator 1 , is provided with a “T” joint 3 . Said “T” joint 3 divides said three-phase fluid feed line into a first vertical ascending fluid flow feed line and a second vertical descending fluid flow feed line 5 . Then, said first vertical ascending fluid flow feed line 4 is connected to the vertical separator 1 by its upper portion, using a new inlet 20 , and said second vertical descending fluid flow feed line 5 is connected to the middle portion of the vertical separator 1 using the original existing fluid inlet 19 . [0069] The liquid phase outlet line of the original two-phase separator is used in this case as the water phase outlet 6 in the three-phase separator. For this purpose, the original level sensor of the floater type 12 , now referred to as the interfase floater sensor 12 , with an added small ballast (not shown) is used to measure the level of the oil-water interface. Said interfase floater sensor 12 is connected to said liquid phase discharge valve 10 , now acting a water phase discharge valve, so that such valve is opened when the sensor registers a high level of the water phase. When the interfase floater sensor 12 registers a maximum level of the water phase, it commands the water phase discharge valve 10 to discharge the fluid until the level of the same falls below said maximum level. [0070] Then, the vertical separator is provided with a second level sensor of the floater type, the high level floater sensor 13 , located at the maximum desired level for the liquid phase, to register the maximum level of said liquid phase. [0071] The separator 1 is provided with a new outlet 7 located slightly below the height of said high level floater sensor 13 , acting as the oil phase fluid outlet 7 , which is further provided with an oil phase discharge valve 11 . Said oil phase discharge valve 11 is connected to said high level floater sensor 13 , so that valve opens when the sensor registers a high level of liquid phase, therefore discharging fluid from the oil phase, and the valve closes when the sensor registers a low liquid phase level. [0072] Finally, in order to improve the efficiency of the device, it is provided with an elbow 9 within the vertical separator 1 , which may or may not exist in the original two-phase separator, to the terminal end of the vertical descending fluid flow feed line 5 , which elbow creates vortexes in the fluid, improving separation. [0073] Additionally, within the vertical separator 1 , the device is provided with a perforated tube 16 to the terminal end of the vertical ascending fluid flow feed line 4 , in order to obtain a uniform distribution of the incoming fluid. [0074] As shown, the modified separator utilizes most of the original existing connections and components, so as to reduce the costs of the modification. [0075] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to determine, using only routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific procedures, embodiments, claims and examples described herein. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of the present invention and covered by the appended claims.
A new device and method for separating all phases of a three-phase fluid of the crude oil type, by means of a two-phase fluid separating device provided with a “T” joint for splitting the feed flow. The invention allows the conversion of two-phase separator into a three-phase fluid separating device, updating its functionality, increasing service life, using most of the original parts and components.
1
This application is a continuation-in-part of prior application Ser. No. 10/499,901 filed on Jul. 12, 2004, now abandoned, which in turn is a national phase filing of PCT/CH02/00721, filed on Dec. 23, 2002, which in turn claims priority to Swiss Patent Application 2340/01, filed on Dec. 24, 2001. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to a method according to the preamble of the first patent claim. The method serves for attaching or fastening elements on surfaces of construction objects in the road traffic field, for example for attaching marking elements or signalling elements on roads or squares, in garages or multi-storey car parks or on house or tunnel walls, that is to say on surfaces which in particular consist of asphalt or concrete. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the method and to an element being able to be attached with the method, according in each case to the preambles of the respective patent claims. Known methods for attaching for example markings onto road surfaces are essentially based on two different processes, namely a process of thermally creating a material fit and a process of chemically creating a material fit. According to a method of the first group, thermoplastic strips and the asphalt surface lying below this are melted down with a gas flame, so that the molten materials bond to one another after cooling. The disadvantage of this method lies in the fact that on the one hand a very large volume of the road surface needs to be heated and on the other hand the method is very time consuming due to the long heating-up and cooling-down phases. Furthermore the energy requirement is very high and the melting process is difficult to control and therefore little suited for automation. Handling of naked flames and gas containers furthermore entails safety risks and is therefore connected with an increased handling effort. According to a method of the second group, solvent-containing coatings of paint are sprayed onto the designated surface. For this method the surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned prior to being coated, and then the marking geometries need to be covered or suitable stencils need to be positioned. Sprayed markings are deposited however only in a very superficial manner and, due to wear and abrasion, have mostly only a short serviceable life. Furthermore, during application or during abrasion of the coats of paint, solvent, colour particles and other partly noxious substances get into the environment. It is further known to attach premanufactured markings to surfaces using adhesives, such attaching having the same disadvantages as discussed above. It is the object of the invention to provide a method for permanent or temporary attachment of elements to surfaces of construction objects in the road traffic field, i.e. to surfaces which in particular consist of asphalt or concrete. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the invention the elements, for example marking or signalling elements consist at least partly of a material which is liquefiable by way of mechanical excitation, e.g. of a thermoplastic material. This means that the element consists of a material with at least one liquefiable (e.g. thermoplastic) component, or at least a region of the element to be directed towards the surface on which it is to be attached consists of such a material. The element is positioned on the surface on which it is to be attached and then it is at least locally pressed against the surface and mechanically excited in a manner such that the liquefiable material is liquefied at least locally and temporarily, and after re-solidification forms a bond between the surface and the element. The surface onto which the element is pressed may also be partly liquefied by the mechanical excitation. The mechanical excitation is usually based on excitation by a sonotrode (piezoelectric excitation for higher frequencies, magnetostrictive excitation for lower frequencies). The excitation is preferably based on mechanical oscillation at a frequency lying in the range of ultrasound, and as the case may be also at lower frequencies. The frequencies are selected depending on the field of application. By way of varying the frequency the extent to which the liquefiable material and, as the case may be, surrounding regions (background) are liquefied or heated may be determined. The amplitude, the frequency and the excitation duration influence the extent of liquefaction and heating. A further essential aspect is the way in which the mechanical oscillation is coupled into the element to be attached or into the element region which is to be liquefied respectively. For such coupling, the element may e.g. be made to be part of the oscillating body. By partially liquefying and subsequent re-solidification, advantageously combined with simultaneous pressing, a bond is produced between the element and the surface on which the element is to be attached. According to the invention the energy used for liquefying the liquefiable material is introduced in a locally and temporally controlled manner. By way of this locally and temporally controlled application of energy, adjacent regions are not unnecessarily heated, which fact creates various advantages. On the one hand the bond can be created using considerably less energy. All the same, the resulting bond, due to the way and manner in which it is created, is extremely lasting and has a high loading capacity. On the other hand the bond can be created in considerably less time since considerably less time is required for introducing the required energy. The method according to the invention is also environmentally friendly since no further auxiliary agents such as adhesives, solvents or other bonding agents comprising noxious substances are used. The strength of the bond is influenced by the intensity of the mechanical energy (impulse, frequency) and/or the excitation duration. According to the field of application it is thus possible to create bonds which are very lasting, or which may be easily detached again. By way of longer excitation duration or by way of a more intense excitation as a result of a higher frequency or amplitude, a stronger bond is achieved, because e.g. more material is liquefied. The method according to the invention is suitable for the most varied applications in the field of road traffic, as for example in road construction, realisation of signs or markings, sealing of gaps, etc. Amongst other things the method is suitable for attaching marking strips or marking images which for example are supplied in the form of suitably punched films and are for example attached to the surfaces of streets or tunnel walls, e.g. stripes marking middle or edge of roads, arrows or lettering. The method according to the invention is also suitable for applying signalling elements which are to project functionally beyond the surface on which they are attached. Such signalling elements are for example to be understood as elements which are to be attached in the region of the centre line or an edge line of a road and which elements when driven across notify the driver by vibrating his vehicle. When required, such elements may be designed reflecting so that they may be better seen particularly in poor light conditions. In particular on motorways these elements may be designed such that they have properties which are different with respect to direction. One example of such an element reflects white in the travel direction and red in the opposite direction. By way of this a person driving on the wrong side of the road is made aware of his mistake. Other designs are also possible. The method according to the invention is particularly suitable for fastening elements which are fabric-like or are based on a film material. These in particular are middle lines and side lines on roads, markings for pedestrian crossings, stop lines, direction indicators (arrows) etc. The elements may be quasi endless (continuous lines) or limited. The film material of such elements advantageously comprises a two-dimensional or net-like substrate film which for example is provided with a coating being liquefiable by way of mechanical excitation. This mechanically liquefiable coating is provided on the one side of the substrate to be directed towards the road surface and it is even or comprises projecting elements which serve as energy directors, i.e. for concentrating the exciting mechanical energy in a manner such that a locally intensified melting-down occurs. The side of the elements to be directed towards the surface on which the element is to be attached may be coated with a liquefiable material only in regions. Instead of the coating, three-dimensional regions of the liquefiable material may be provided, for example pins, rings or other shapes, which are for example uniformly distributed over the surface of the element to be attached to the road surface or other surface. The position of such three-dimensional shapes is suitably marked on the opposite side from which the mechanical oscillation is coupled in, so that the mechanical energy may be selectively introduced in the correct locations. A further field of application of the method according to the invention is the fastening of reinforcements to surfaces of construction objects in the field of road traffic. From the state of the art there are known methods with which bridges, in particular bridges of concrete are restored by attaching strips of high-tensile, stiff fibres (e.g. carbon fibres) on the lower bridge side, i.e. in the region in which the structure is loaded in tension,. Such strips relieve the bridge structure or allow it to be more loaded. According to the state of the art such strips are attached by way of adhesive which is a cost-intensive and thus expensive method. It is furthermore not very suitable due to environmental aspects. On attaching the strips, the fibres must be prestressed so that the structure is relieved in an effective manner from the very beginning. However prestressing is not linear but must be greatest along the middle and lowest along at edges of the bridge. Using the method according to the invention, it becomes possible to process the above described reinforcement strips very simply and also inexpensively in a continuous process. The reinforcement strips are pressed onto the surface of the construction object to be reinforced, they are prestressed depending on location and are then connected to the surface by way of mechanical excitation and pressure. Since the connection is created in a very short time, non-linear prestressing ensuring optimal results is easily possible. The bonds created with the method according to the invention may be permanent or may be only temporary. Temporary bonds are to be understood as bonds which are only to be present for a forseeable time duration. Such bonds make sense, in particular in the field of building sites where it is necessary to divert the traffic for a certain time. Such bonds are created in a very simple manner and they can be easily detached later. In the field of building sites it makes particular sense to attach temporary markings which comprise a film, for example in the form of an endless tape as a base structure and which comprise a coating being able to be bonded to the road surface by way of mechanical excitation. Using a suitable device, endless or limited signalling elements may be attached very simply in a continuous process. In order to detach the elements the same device may be used in a reverse way and manner (new liquefaction, detachment and then removal). The bonds may be formed such that the strips can be detached without special tools. Pretreatment of the surface on which the elements are to be attached, e.g. for drying such surfaces, may be effected by preheating the surface by e.g. using a hot roller which is more suitable than a gas flame. In certain cases such pretreatment (drying, priming) may not be required. The method may be applied for various element thicknesses and element geometries. Other than in the known melt-on processes, the material thickness can be optimized. The time required for the mechanical excitation may be reduced and the bonding improved by way of preheating. Bonds created according to the invention are characterised by their good adhesion on the most varied of porous surfaces. They display a good resistance to specific influences such as weather, wear, etc. Since the method has no influence on the geometry of the element to be fastened, customer-specific geometries can be realized, as well as customer-specific surface structures and colourings. A surface structure may be embossed during attaching by the tool used for attaching or by a subsequent tool. This surface structure may assume additional functions, e.g. creating noise when in contact with a rotating tyre, so that the driver is made aware that he is crossing the marking. The advantages of the method according to the invention may be summarized as follows: Carrying out the method is extremely simple and gives high performance at low operating and maintenance expense; Good bonding between the attached element and the surface on which it is attached is achieved due to liquefaction of a part of the material during the fastening procedure; Improved bonding with respect to known methods using an open gas flame is achieved, due to the fact that no incineration occurs and no soot particles contaminate the bonding surfaces; Very short process times (time for mechanical excitation and for resolidification or cooling) are possible; The device for attaching the elements does not need to carry liquid, volatile or inflammable substances, which fact considerably increases the working safety; The method is environmentally friendly since above all no volatile substances or auxiliary agents are applied. In combination with the following Figures the method according to the invention and some exemplary embodiments of devices for carrying out the method according to the invention, and of elements being attachable on construction objects using the method are described in more detail. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a device for attaching marking strips; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a device for attaching marking strips, the device comprising a link chain; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a device for attaching marking strips, the device comprising a sonotrode roller; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view a section through a sonotrode roller; and FIGS. 5 to 8 show further examples of elements which are attachable to surfaces of construction objects of road traffic using the method according to the invention. FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the first embodiment of the device in the process of attaching marking strips to readway. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION FIG. 1 , in a greatly simplified manner, shows the essential elements of a first embodiment of a fastening device for attaching an element 2 , for example a marking element (marking strip) on the surface of a road, for example of asphalt or concrete. The element 2 to be attached is strip-like and is separated from a tape, wherein the tape is rolled on a supply reel 3 . The element 2 for example comprises a substrate material which is coated on at least one side. It is for example a strip of plastic or metal film being coated with a material which can be melted down using mechanical excitation. This meltable or liquefiable material is for example a thermoplastic polymer material (e.g. polypropylene). The element 2 may also consist completely of the meltable material. While the fastening device 1 is moved in the working direction tape for the element 2 is rolled from the supply reel 3 and by way of a first roller 4 is pressed onto the surface (e.g. road surface) on which the element 2 is to adhere. The working direction is shown by an arrow X. Behind the first roller 4 three sonotrodes 6 are provided being actively connected to a converter (sound transducer) 7 and to a mechanical amplifier 8 . The converter 7 which serves for converting electrical into mechanical oscillation is driven via a generator 9 . The converter usually comprises piezoelements converting electrical oscillation with typical frequencies above 20 kHz into suitable mechanical oscillation. The working range of the converter is selected to suit the application. Normal frequencies lie in the range between 2 kHz and 400 kHz. The amplifier 8 functions as a mechanical amplifier due to its configuration. It transforms oscillation, concentrates this oscillation and transmits it to the sonotrode 6 . The sonotrode 6 together with the amplifier 8 and the converter 7 forms an oscillating unit 10 . The elements of the oscillating unit 10 are optimised to the field of application or to a frequency and preferably oscillate in resonance. The oscillating unit 10 excites into oscillation the element 2 and where appropriate the material of the surface to which the element 2 is to be attached. Through internal and external friction caused by the excitation, the element is melted, at least locally, and as the case may be, the surface material too. Due to high shear effects a high degree of plastification is achieved. The element 2 is advantageously pressed (roller 5 ) against the surface on which it is to be attached during liquefaction and afterwards, so that after resolidification the element and the surface are connected to one another. The shown fastening device 1 comprises three oscillating units 10 . These may be activated individually. It is of course to be understood that a device may have a different number of oscillating units. Behind the three oscillating units 10 there is a second roller 5 which presses the element 2 against the surface during the cooling. The first and the second rollers 4 , 5 serve preferably for setting the distance between the sonotrodes 6 and the element 2 . The fastening device 1 serves for fastening the element 2 in a continuous or in a discontinuous process. A cutting device 11 is arranged behind the second roller 5 . This device serves for cutting off the element 2 if the marking strip to be deposited is not continuous as is shown. The discontinuous case is indicated schematically in FIG. 1 by a first element 2 of a marking tape being shown behind the fastening device. In front of the first roller 4 there is a detaching device 12 which serves for detaching elements 2 from a surface on which they have previously been attached, following re-liquefaction of the element by the oscillating units. The type of the oscillation and the manner of its coupling into the element 2 to be fastened is determined by the shape of the sonotrode 6 and the other elements of the oscillating unit. Preferred are elongate or cylindrical shapes which extend over the whole width of the element 2 and taper downwards, i.e. towards the element 2 to be treated. FIG. 2 shows a further embodiment of a fastening device 1 for attaching an element 2 to a surface. The fastening device 1 comprises two lower rollers 13 and two upper rollers 14 which serve for guiding a circulating link chain 15 . The link chain 15 on its outer surface has an embossing structure 16 which serves for embossing a surface structure 17 into the element 2 . A sonotrode 6 is arranged between the two lower rollers 13 and serves for the indirect excitation of the element 2 via the link chain 15 . The element 2 being processed is arranged between the link chain 15 and the surface on which it is to be attached. The tape-like material for the element 2 is stored on a supply reel 3 and is pulled from this during the process. A cutting device 11 serves for cutting off an element 2 of material on the supply reel 3 . This cutting device may be arranged in front of or behind the link chain 15 . Different surface structures may be embossed into the element 2 by way of using link chains 15 with different embossing structures 16 . For driving the fastening device 1 , preferably electrical or hydraulic motors (not shown in detail) are used. The fastening device 1 is designed preferably self-travelling or may be used as a part of another machine. For processing differently shaped elements 2 it has a corresponding configuration. FIG. 3 shows a further embodiment of a fastening device 1 for attaching elements 2 on a surface. The fastening device 1 comprises an oscillating unit 10 with a rotating sonotrode 6 . The sonotrode 6 is designed as a sonotrode roller which is preferably excited by a converter 7 to oscillate in a radial direction. The oscillation is transmitted to the element 2 and has the effect that this element is plastified locally. Rollers 4 , 5 are arranged in front of and behind the sonotrode roller 6 in the working direction (x-direction). These rollers serve for pressing the element 2 onto and into the surface of the background. If applicable, rollers 4 , 5 are also guiding and support rollers. A cutting and detaching device 11 , 12 are arranged in front of and behind the rollers. These devices comprise a blade each and when activated cut off the element 2 or detach it from the surface on which it is fastened. FIG. 4 shows a schematic section along the axis of the sonotrode roller 6 according to FIG. 3 . As may be recognised, the sonotrode roller 6 consists of a plurality of stacked disks 18 being connected to one another centrically via thin locations 13 . The oscillation of the converter 7 is preferably introduced perpendicularly to the axis A of the sonotrode roller. The invention may be summarized as follows: an environmentally friendly and safe method for attaching or fastening elements on surfaces of construction objects in the field of road traffic which method comprises: positioning the element to be attached on the surface on which it is to be attached and liquefying the element by local mechanical excitation during an excitation time so that the element on its side facing the surface and where appropriate also the surface onto which the element is pressed is locally melted in a manner such that after cooling the element is fastened on the surface. A travelling device for attaching a marking strip for example onto the surface of a road comprises a means being capable of travelling on rolls or rollers 4 , 5 , and further comprising at least one oscillating unit 10 consisting of sonotrode 6 , converter 7 and amplifier 8 and a generator 9 . The marking strips attached onto the surface of the road apart from their colouring may have a profiling which produces acoustic or various optical signals, such as e.g. white reflection in the one direction and red reflection in the other direction. FIGS. 5 to 8 show further elements 2 which may be attached to surfaces of construction objects according with the method according to the invention. These elements are discrete elements which may not be wound off from a supply reel. They may however be positioned in a per se known manner at predefined time intervals below the oscillation tool of a fastening device moving at a constant speed for example along a road, so that they are deposited onto the road surface at constant distances to one another. The elements may also be attached individually with a hand apparatus known from ultrasonic welding or with a similar apparatus. FIG. 5 shows a flat element 2 which is shown to be rectangular, but which however may have any shape. The element along the edge comprises nubs 20 arranged on the one element side which is to be directed towards the surface on which the element is to be attached. At least these nubs consist of the liquefiable material, where appropriate the whole edge region or the nub-side of the edge region consist of this material. For the attachment process, the element according to FIG. 5 is positioned and is pressed against the surface and simultaneously excited (e.g. with an excited sonotrode) at least in its edge region (indicated by arrows). The element 2 according to FIG. 6 is disk-like and for example comprises a reflector in the middle of its side facing outwards. On its opposite side which is to be directed towards the surface on which the element is to be attached, the element 2 comprises a fastening ring 2 . In the region of this ring 21 the element is excited from the outside, as this is illustrated by the arrows, and is pressed against the surface, for example with a corresponding tubular sonotrode. The fastening ring 21 may also be formed by a row of pins or nubs arranged along the edge of the element 2 . At least the fastening ring 21 or the pins or nubs serving the same purpose, or where appropriate the whole element 2 consist of a material which is liquefiable by way of mechanical oscillation. FIG. 7 shows a disk-like element similar to the element of FIG. 6 . An electronic module 25 with an aerial 16 , as is used for traffic directing or controlling systems, is fastened within a fastening ring 21 on the bottom side facing the road surface on which the element is to be attached. On pressing the element on the road surface with the aid of a tubular sonotrode adapted to the fastening ring 21 (as illustrated by the arrows) the material of the fastening ring 21 is at least partly liquefied and pressed into the road surface to create a hermetically closed space for the electronic module. As illustrated in FIG. 7 , the fastening ring may have an inner region and an outer region wherein the inner region protrudes further from the bottom side of the element. For attaching this element to the road surface, it is positioned within an opening provided in the road surface and adapted to the inner ring region, such that on fastening the element on the road surface, the inner ring region is attached to the bottom of the opening and the outer ring region is attached to the road surface around the opening. The element 2 according to FIG. 7 may of course also have a shape other than a disk-like shape. FIG. 8 shows a further element with an integrated electronic module 25 comprising an aerial 26 . Module and aerial are positioned in a hermetically closed space formed between two element parts 2 . 1 and 2 . 2 , wherein these two element parts may for example be connected to one another on fastening of the whole element. The element part 2 . 2 facing towards the fastening side of the element consists at least partly of the liquefiable material and comprises energy directors e.g. in the form of at least one ring. The two element parts 2 . 1 and 2 . 2 may also be connected to one another e.g. by an adhesive prior to attachment of the element to the road surface. It is also possible to integrate the electronic module into the element during already on manufacturing of the element 2 by e.g. moulding.
An environmentally sound method for applying or fixing elements ( 2 ) to constructed objects used for road traffic. The element ( 2 ), which is at least partially made of a material that can be liquefied by mechanical energy, is positioned on the surface, is pressed against the surface, and is simultaneously subjected to a local mechanical stimulation to liquefy the liquefiable material, and the element ( 2 ) binds with the surface upon re-solidifying. A mobile device ( 1 ) for applying elements ( 2 ) of this type, includes device that can travel via rolls or rollers ( 4, 5 ) and that is provided with at least one oscillating unit ( 10 ) including a sonotrode ( 6 ), a converter ( 7 ) and of an amplifier ( 8 ), and with a generator ( 9 ). The element ( 2 ) may be a marking or signaling element to be applied to roads or tunnel walls.
4
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/CN2013/070531, filed on Jan. 16, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of network communications, and in particular, to a method, a routing bridge (RB), and a Transparent Interconnection of Lots of Links (TRILL) network for implementing a TRILL operation, administration and maintenance (OAM) packet. BACKGROUND [0003] TRILL is a protocol that is applied to an RB device. The TRILL protocol runs on a data link layer, that is, layer 2 (L2) in an Open System Interconnection (OSI) reference model; uses a link state routing technology based on Intermediate System to Intermediate System (IS-IS) to spread and advertise a topology and a member relationship of a logical network; applies the link state routing technology to the data link layer; and provides logical Ethernet on a traditional Ethernet architecture. [0004] FIG. 1 shows an encapsulation format of a TRILL packet, the TRILL packet includes an outer Ethernet header, a TRILL header, an inner Ethernet header), a Payload, and a frame check sequence (FCS), where the Payload of the TRILL packet is generally the Payload of an original Ethernet frame, and the inner Ethernet header is generally the header of the original Ethernet frame. A meaning of each field in the TRILL header is as follows: [0005] Ethertype: Ethertype, 16 bits; and generally, the Ethertype of a TRILL data frame is TRILL and the Ethertype of a TRILL IS-IS frame is L2-IS-IS. [0006] V (Version): TRILL version number, 2 bits. [0007] R (Reserved): reserved field, 2 bits. [0008] M (Multi-destination): multicast identifier, 1 bit; and 0 indicates known unicast, and 1 indicates unknown unicast/multicast/broadcast. [0009] Op-Length (Options Length): length of an Option field, 5 bits; and a length of the Options field is defined by Op-Length and measured in unit of four bytes, for example, if a value of Op-Length is 1, it indicates that a length of Options is four bytes, that is, 32 bits. [0010] Hop Count: hop count, 6 bits; and a value of Hop Count decreases by 1 hop by hop; when the value of Hop Count is 0, a packet is discarded so as to prevent a loop storm. [0011] Egress RBridge Nickname: egress routing bridge nickname, 16 bits; generally, it identifies a target edge RB when a packet leaves a TRILL network; and an intermediate transmission RB node cannot change a value of this field. [0012] Ingress RBridge Nickname: ingress routing bridge nickname, 16 bits; generally, it identifies an initial edge RB when a packet enters a TRILL; and an intermediate transmission RB node cannot change a value of this field. [0013] Options: options; and the length of an option is determined by Op-Length. [0014] Formats of the outer Ethernet header and the inner Ethernet header of the TRILL packet are generally the same. A meaning of each field is as follows: [0015] Dst-MAC: destination media access control (MAC) address, 64 bits. [0016] Src-MAC: source MAC address, 64 bits. [0017] Ethertype: Ethernet type, 16 bits. [0018] VLAN Tag: virtual local area network (VLAN) label information, 16 bits, including a 14-bit VLAN identifier (ID). [0019] When a TRILL packet is forwarded between RBs, other fields in a TRILL header remain unchanged except that Hop Count decreases by 1 hop by hop. Contents of an inner Ethernet header and a Payload remain unchanged, and a source MAC address and a destination MAC address of an outer Ethernet header are updated hop by hop. [0020] Generally, each RB on the TRILL network may maintain a list of VLANs concerned by itself. When an RB receives a TRILL packet sent to the RB, that is, an egress routing bridge nickname in a TRILL header is a nickname of the RB, the RB decapsulates the TRILL packet and checks whether a VLAN ID in an inner Ethernet header is in a VLAN list of the RB. If the VLAN ID is not in the VLAN list of the RB, the TRILL packet is discarded; and if the VLAN ID is in the VLAN list of the RB, the decapsulated TRILL packet continues to be processed by the RB. [0021] An OAM packet, for example, a packet such as ping or bidirectional forwarding detection (BFD), is a packet used to maintain a link state on a network. On a TRILL network, a link state between RBs can be maintained through a TRILL OAM packet, that is, an OAM packet obtained after TRILL encapsulation. Generally, the OAM packet does not carry a VLAN ID. Therefore, a VLAN needs to be selected and a VLAN ID of the VLAN is used as a VLAN ID in an inner Ethernet header of the TRILL OAM packet, so that the TRILL OAM packet generated through encapsulation can be processed by a target RB only when the TRILL OAM packet arrives at the target RB. [0022] In a first prior art, a VLAN 0 or a VLAN 1 is selected to be used for TRILL OAM, that is, a VLAN ID that is 0 or 1 is selected and used as the VLAN ID in the inner Ethernet header of the TRILL OAM packet. However, a packet that carries a VLAN ID that is 0 is generally regarded as a packet of an invalid type and discarded in a processing process. If the VLAN 0 is used for TRILL OAM, supporting of the TRILL OAM on all RBs cannot be ensured, and therefore availability of a TRILL OAM function cannot be ensured. A VLAN 1 is generally a VLAN that is configured on an RB by default, and all ports are added to the VLAN 1. If the VLAN 1 is used, when performing OAM processing, the RB learns, from the VLAN 1, a MAC address that should not be learned, thereby affecting an original forwarding procedure within the VLAN 1. [0023] In a second prior art, a reserved VLAN is configured to be used for TRILL OAM. However, because manufacturers, forms, and the like of devices on a TRILL network are not uniform, reservation of a uniform VLAN usually cannot be ensured. If a reserved VLAN configured on an RB is not created on another RB, a TRILL OAM packet is still discarded and a TRILL OAM function cannot be really implemented. Additionally, a VLAN resource is in shortage currently and configuration of a reserved VLAN used for OAM further occupies an extra VLAN resource. SUMMARY [0024] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method, a routing bridge RB, and a TRILL network for implementing a TRILL OAM packet, so that at the same time when availability of a TRILL OAM function is ensured, no extra VLAN resource is occupied, and an RB does not learn a MAC address that should not be learned and therefore a TRILL protocol forwarding procedure is not affected. [0025] According to a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for implementing OAM on a TRILL network, including generating, by an ingress routing bridge RB, a first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, where an inner VLAN identifier and an outer VLAN identifier of the first TRILL OAM packet are a designated virtual local area network (DVLAN) identifier (ID) of a TRILL network on which the ingress RB resides, an inner destination MAC address of the first TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of an egress RB, an ingress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the ingress RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB, and sending the first TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, so that the egress RB processes the first TRILL OAM packet. [0026] According to a second aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a routing bridge RB on a TRILL network, including an encapsulating module configured to generate a first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, where an inner VLAN identifier and an outer VLAN identifier of the first TRILL OAM packet are a DVLAN identifier of a TRILL network on which the RB resides, an inner destination MAC address of the first TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of an egress RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB; and a sending module configured to send the first TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, so that the egress RB processes the first TRILL OAM packet. [0027] According to a third aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a TRILL network, including an ingress RB and an egress RB, where the ingress RB generates a first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation and sends the first TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, where an inner virtual local area network identifier VLAN ID and an outer VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet are a DVLAN ID of the TRILL network, an inner destination MAC address of the first TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of the egress RB, an ingress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the ingress RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB, and the egress RB receives the first TRILL OAM packet, performs TRILL decapsulation on the first TRILL OAM packet to obtain a first OAM packet, and processes the first OAM packet. [0028] In a first possible implementation manner of the third aspect, the ingress RB is the RB described in the second aspect or any one of possible implementation manners of the second aspect. [0029] By using the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure, when generating a TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, an RB uses a DVLAN ID as an inner VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet. Because each RB on a TRILL network generally configures and creates a DVLAN, it may be avoided that because an inner VLAN is not a VLAN concerned by the RB, the packet is discarded. Furthermore, the DVLAN is a valid VLAN, and therefore the packet is not discarded due to a related validity check, thereby ensuring availability of a TRILL OAM function. Meanwhile, a DVLAN identifier is designated as the inner VLAN identifier of the TRILL OAM packet, and no extra VLAN resource is occupied. In addition, because the DVLAN does not learn a MAC address by default, the RB can be prevented from learning a MAC address that should not be learned, and a TRILL protocol forwarding procedure is not affected. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0030] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an encapsulation format of a TRILL packet. [0031] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method for implementing OAM on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0032] FIG. 3 is another flowchart of a method for implementing OAM on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0033] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are structural block diagrams of a routing bridges RB on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0034] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a hardware structure of a routing bridge RB on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0035] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS [0036] The following clearly describes the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiments to be described are merely a part rather than all of the embodiments of the present disclosure. All other embodiments obtained by a person of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present disclosure without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure. [0037] Generally, a VLAN ID in an inner Ethernet header is called inner VLAN ID, and a VLAN identified by the inner VLAN ID is called inner VLAN; and a VLAN ID in an outer Ethernet header is called outer VLAN ID, and a VLAN identified by the outer VLAN ID is called outer VLAN. A source MAC address and a destination MAC address in the outer Ethernet header are called outer source MAC address and outer destination MAC address, respectively; and a source MAC address and a destination MAC address in the inner Ethernet header are called inner source MAC address and inner destination MAC address, respectively. [0038] Generally, a DVLAN identifier is configured on a TRILL network for interconnection and interworking between RBs, and the DVLAN identifier is configured not to learn a MAC address by default. Each RB on the TRILL network configures and creates a DVLAN and stores a DVLAN ID in a VLAN list, where the DVLAN ID is used for protocol interaction, packet forwarding, and the like. On the TRILL network, the DVLAN, as a valid VLAN, can also meet a related validity check; and an outer VLAN ID of a TRILL packet generally uses the DVLAN ID by default. For example, on a TRILL network deployed by a carrier 1, a VLAN whose ID is 1000 is designated as a DVLAN. On the TRILL network deployed by the carrier 1, a DVLAN ID 1000 is stored in a VLAN list of each RB, and in a TRILL packet forwarding process, it is checked whether an outer VLAN ID of a TRILL packet is 1000. On a TRILL network deployed by a carrier 2, a VLAN whose ID is 2048 is designated as a DVLAN. On the TRILL network deployed by the carrier 2, a DVLAN ID 2048 is generally stored in a VLAN list of each RB, and in a TRILL packet forwarding process, it is checked whether an outer VLAN ID of a TRILL packet is 2048. [0039] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method for implementing OAM on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method includes: [0040] 201 . An ingress RB generates a TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, where an inner VLAN ID and an outer VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet are a DVLAN ID of a TRILL network on which the ingress RB resides. [0041] An inner destination MAC address of the TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of an egress RB, an ingress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the ingress RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB. [0042] 202 . Send the TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, so that the egress RB processes the TRILL OAM packet. [0043] After the egress RB receives the TRILL OAM packet, if the egress RB finds that the egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the TRILL OAM packet is its own nickname, that is, the nickname of the egress RB, the egress RB performs TRILL decapsulation on the TRILL OAM packet to obtain an OAM packet. The egress RB first checks a VLAN identifier of the OAM packet. Because the VLAN identifier of the OAM packet is the DVLAN identifier and a destination MAC address of the OAM packet is a MAC address of the egress RB, the egress RB processes the OAM packet. [0044] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, a DVLAN is designated to be used for TRILL OAM, and a DVLAN ID is used as an inner VLAN ID of a TRILL OAM packet. Because a DVLAN is generally configured on a TRILL network, and the DVLAN is created on each RB, it may be avoided that because an inner VLAN is not a VLAN concerned by the RB, the packet is discarded. Furthermore, the DVLAN is a valid VLAN, and therefore the packet is not discarded due to a related validity check, thereby ensuring availability of a TRILL OAM function. Meanwhile, the DVLAN is designated to be used for the TRILL OAM and no extra VLAN resource is occupied. In addition, because the DVLAN does not learn a MAC address by default, the RB can be prevented from learning a MAC address that should not be learned, and a TRILL protocol forwarding procedure is not affected. [0045] FIG. 3 is another flowchart of a method for implementing OAM on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method includes: [0046] 301 . An ingress RB enables a feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM. [0047] The feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is designating a DVLAN of a TRILL network to be used for TRILL OAM, that is, using a DVLAN identifier of a TRILL network as an inner VLAN identifier of a TRILL OAM packet so as to implement a TRILL OAM function. [0048] In the present disclosure, a DVLAN identifier is configured on a TRILL network on which the ingress RB resides, and the DVLAN ID is stored in a VLAN list of the ingress RB. The ingress RB enables the feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM. [0049] Optionally, the feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is configured on each RB on the TRILL network on which the ingress RB resides. Further optionally, each RB enables the feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM. [0050] 302 . The ingress RB generates a first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, where an inner VLAN ID and an outer VLAN ID of the first TRILL OAM packet are the DVLAN ID. [0051] An inner destination MAC address of the first TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of an egress RB, an ingress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the ingress RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB. [0052] Optionally, in a process in which the ingress RB generates the first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, the ingress RB finds a next-hop RB according to the nickname of the egress RB, uses a MAC address of the next-hop RB as an outer destination MAC address, and uses a MAC address of the ingress RB as an outer source MAC address. [0053] For example, on a TRILL network deployed by a carrier 1, a VLAN whose ID is 1000 is configured and used as a DVLAN. When connectivity between an RB1 and an RB2 needs to be tested, the RB1 may perform TRILL encapsulation on a Ping packet to generate a TRILL Ping packet and send the TRILL Ping packet to the RB2. An inner VLAN ID and an outer VLAN ID of the TRILL Ping packet are both the DVLAN ID, that is, 1000; an inner source MAC address of the TRILL Ping packet is a MAC address of the RB1, and an inner destination MAC address is a source MAC address of the RB2; an ingress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the TRILL Ping packet is a nickname of the RB1, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the TRILL Ping packet is a nickname of the RB2; and an outer source MAC address of the TRILL Ping packet is a source MAC address of the RB1, and an outer destination MAC address of the TRILL Ping packet is a MAC address of a next-hop RB from the RB1 to the RB2. [0054] 303 . Send the first TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, so that the egress RB processes the first TRILL OAM packet. [0055] After the egress RB receives the first TRILL OAM packet, if the egress RB finds that the egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is its own nickname, that is, the nickname of the egress RB, the egress RB performs TRILL decapsulation on the first TRILL OAM packet to obtain a first OAM packet. The egress RB first checks a VLAN ID of the first OAM packet. Because the VLAN ID of the first OAM packet is the DVLAN ID and a destination MAC address of the first OAM packet is the MAC address of the egress RB, the egress RB processes the first OAM packet. [0056] 304 . The ingress RB receives a second TRILL OAM packet. [0057] The ingress RB receives the second TRILL OAM packet, an outer VLAN ID of the second TRILL OAM packet is the DVLAN ID, and the ingress RB acquires an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the second TRILL OAM packet. [0058] If the egress routing bridge nickname is not the nickname of the ingress RB, the ingress RB finds a next-hop RB according to the egress routing bridge nickname, uses a MAC address of the next-hop RB as an outer destination MAC address, uses the MAC address of the ingress RB as an outer source MAC address, and forwards the second TRILL OAM packet. This procedure ends. [0059] If the egress routing bridge nickname is the nickname of the ingress RB, continue to perform 305 . [0060] 305 . The ingress RB performs TRILL decapsulation on the second TRILL OAM packet to obtain a second OAM packet, where the egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the second TRILL OAM packet is the nickname of the ingress RB. [0061] After the ingress RB receives the second TRILL OAM packet, if the ingress RB finds that the egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the second TRILL OAM packet is its own nickname, that is, the nickname of the ingress RB, the ingress RB performs the TRILL decapsulation on the second TRILL OAM packet to obtain the second OAM packet. [0062] 306 . The ingress RB processes the second OAM packet, where a destination MAC address of the second OAM packet is the MAC address of the ingress RB, and a VLAN ID is the DVLAN ID. [0063] After the ingress RB performs the TRILL decapsulation on the second TRILL OAM packet to obtain the second OAM packet, the ingress RB checks the VLAN ID of the second OAM packet. [0064] If the VLAN ID of the second OAM packet is the DVLAN ID and the destination MAC address of the second OAM packet is the MAC address of the ingress RB, the ingress RB processes the second OAM packet. For a detailed process, reference may be made to general OAM processing, and no further details are provided herein. [0065] If the VLAN ID of the second OAM packet is not in the VLAN list of the ingress RB, the second OAM packet is discarded. [0066] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, a DVLAN ID is used as an inner VLAN ID of a TRILL OAM packet. Because each RB on a TRILL network generally configures and creates a DVLAN, it may be avoided that because an inner VLAN is not a VLAN concerned by the RB, the packet is discarded. Furthermore, the DVLAN is a valid VLAN, and therefore the packet is not discarded due to a related validity check, thereby ensuring availability of a TRILL OAM function. In addition, the DVLAN ID is designated as the inner VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet, and no extra VLAN resource is occupied. Furthermore, because the DVLAN does not learn a MAC address by default, the RB can be prevented from learning a MAC address that should not be learned, and a TRILL protocol forwarding procedure is not affected. [0067] FIG. 4 is a structural block diagram of an RB on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The RB that is used to implement the methods shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 includes an encapsulating module 401 configured to generate a first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, where an inner VLAN ID and an outer VLAN ID of the first TRILL OAM packet are a DVLAN ID of the TRILL network, an inner destination MAC address of the first TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of an egress RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB, and a sending module 402 configured to send the first TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, so that the egress RB processes the first TRILL OAM packet. [0068] The DVLAN identifier is configured on the RB. [0069] The encapsulating module 401 is configured to find a next-hop RB according to the nickname of the egress RB, use a MAC address of the next-hop RB as an outer destination MAC address, and use a MAC address of the RB as an outer source MAC address. [0070] Optionally, a feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is configured on the RB. The feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is designating the DVLAN of the TRILL network to be used for TRILL OAM, that is, using the DVLAN ID of the TRILL network as the inner VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet so as to implement a TRILL OAM function. [0071] Optionally, the RB further includes a feature processing module configured to enable or disable the feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM. [0072] Further, as shown in FIG. 5 , the RB may include a receiving module 403 configured to receive a second TRILL OAM packet, where an outer VLAN ID of the second TRILL OAM packet is the DVLAN ID, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the second TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the RB, a decapsulating module 404 configured to perform TRILL decapsulation on the second TRILL OAM packet to obtain a second OAM packet, and an OAM processing module 405 configured to process the second OAM packet, where a destination MAC address of the second OAM packet is the MAC address of the RB, and a VLAN ID is the DVLAN ID. [0073] Further optionally, the OAM processing module 405 may be configured to generate a second response packet in response to the second TRILL OAM packet. The encapsulating module 401 may further be configured to perform TRILL encapsulation on the second response packet. The sending module 402 may further be configured to send the second response packet on which the TRILL encapsulation has been performed. [0074] Optionally, the receiving module 403 may further be configured to receive a first response packet of the egress RB in response to the first TRILL OAM packet. The decapsulating module 404 may further be configured to perform TRILL decapsulation on the first response packet. The OAM processing module 405 may further be configured to process the first response packet on which the TRILL decapsulation has been performed. [0075] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, an RB uses a DVLAN ID as an inner VLAN ID of a TRILL OAM packet. Because each RB on a TRILL network generally configures and creates a DVLAN, it may be avoided that because an inner VLAN is not a VLAN concerned by the RB, the packet is discarded. Furthermore, the DVLAN is a valid VLAN, and therefore the packet is not discarded due to a validity check, thereby ensuring availability of a TRILL OAM function. In addition, the DVLAN ID is designated as the inner VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet, and no extra VLAN resource is occupied. Furthermore, because the DVLAN does not learn a MAC address by default, the RB can be prevented from learning a MAC address that should not be learned, and a TRILL protocol forwarding procedure is not affected. [0076] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a hardware structure of an RB on a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The RB includes a processor 602 , a memory 604 , a communications interface 601 , and a bus 603 . The processor 602 , the memory 604 , and the communications interface 601 connect to each other by using the bus 603 . The bus 603 may be a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus, an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus, or the like. The bus may be classified into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. For ease of expression, only one bold line is used in FIG. 6 for expression but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus. [0077] The memory 604 is configured to store a program. The program may include a program code, where the program code includes a computer operation instruction. The memory 604 may include a high-speed random access memory (RAM) and may also include a non-volatile memory (NVM), such as an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) and a flash memory. [0078] The processor 602 executes the program stored in the memory 604 ; is configured to generate a first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, where an inner VLAN ID and an outer VLAN ID of the first TRILL OAM packet are a DVLAN ID of a TRILL network, an inner destination MAC address of the first TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of an egress RB, an ingress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the first TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB; and is further configured to send the first TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, so that the egress RB processes the first TRILL OAM packet. [0079] The DVLAN identifier is configured on the RB. [0080] The processor 602 is configured to find a next-hop RB according to the nickname of the egress RB, use a MAC address of the next-hop RB as an outer destination MAC address, and use a MAC address of the RB as an outer source MAC address, so as to generate the first TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation. [0081] Optionally, a feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is further configured on the RB. The feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is designating the DVLAN of the TRILL network to be used for TRILL OAM, that is, using the DVLAN ID of the TRILL network as the inner VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet so as to implement a TRILL OAM function. The processor 602 is further configured to enable or disable the feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM. [0082] Further, the processor 602 is configured to receive a second TRILL OAM packet, where an outer VLAN ID of the second TRILL OAM packet is the DVLAN ID, an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the second TRILL OAM packet is the nickname of the RB; perform TRILL decapsulation on the second TRILL OAM packet to obtain a second OAM packet; and process the second OAM packet, where a destination MAC address of the second OAM packet is the MAC address of the RB, and a VLAN identifier is the DVLAN ID. [0083] The processor 602 is configured to receive the second TRILL OAM packet and acquire the egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the second TRILL OAM packet; if the egress routing bridge nickname is not the nickname of the RB, find a next-hop RB according to the egress routing bridge nickname, use a MAC address of the next-hop RB as an outer destination MAC address, use the MAC address of the RB as an outer source MAC address, and forward the second TRILL OAM packet; and if the egress routing bridge nickname is the nickname of the RB, perform TRILL decapsulation on the second TRILL OAM packet to obtain a second OAM packet, where the ingress RB checks a VLAN ID of the second OAM packet, if the VLAN ID of the second OAM packet is the DVLAN ID and a destination MAC address of the second OAM packet is the MAC address of the ingress RB, the ingress RB processes the second OAM packet, and if the VLAN ID of the second OAM packet is not in a VLAN list of the ingress RB, discards the second OAM packet. [0084] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, an RB uses a DVLAN ID as an inner VLAN ID of a TRILL OAM packet by using a processor, so as to generate the TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation. Because each RB on a TRILL network generally configures and creates a DVLAN, it may be avoided that because an inner VLAN is not a VLAN concerned by the RB, the packet is discarded. Furthermore, the DVLAN is a valid VLAN, and therefore the packet is not discarded due to a validity check, thereby ensuring availability of a TRILL OAM function. In addition, the DVLAN ID is designated as the inner VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet, and no extra VLAN resource is occupied. Furthermore, because the DVLAN does not learn a MAC address by default, the RB can be prevented from learning a MAC address that should not be learned, and a TRILL network forwarding procedure is not affected. [0085] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a TRILL network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The TRILL network includes an ingress RB and an egress RB. [0086] The ingress RB generates a TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation and sends the TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB, where an inner VLAN ID and an outer VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet are a DVLAN ID of the TRILL network, an inner destination MAC address of the TRILL OAM packet is a MAC address of the egress RB, an ingress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the ingress RB, and an egress routing bridge nickname in the TRILL header of the TRILL OAM packet is a nickname of the egress RB. [0087] The egress RB receives the TRILL OAM packet, performs TRILL decapsulation on the TRILL OAM packet to obtain an OAM packet, and processes the OAM packet. [0088] The DVLAN ID is configured on the TRILL network, and the DVLAN ID is configured and created on the ingress RB and the egress RB. [0089] After receiving the TRILL OAM packet, the egress RB acquires the egress routing bridge nickname of the TRILL OAM packet, and because the egress routing bridge nickname is the nickname of the egress RB, performs TRILL decapsulation on the TRILL OAM packet to obtain an OAM packet routing bridge. Because a VLAN ID of the OAM packet is the DVLAN ID and a destination MAC address is the MAC address of the egress RB, the egress RB processes the OAM packet. For a process, reference may be made to general OAM processing, and no further details are provided herein. [0090] Further, the ingress RB includes an encapsulating module configured to generate the TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation, and a sending module configured to send the TRILL OAM packet to the egress RB. [0091] Optionally, a feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is configured on the ingress RB. The feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM is designating the DVLAN of the TRILL network to be used for TRILL OAM, that is, using the DVLAN ID as the inner VLAN ID of the TRILL OAM packet. The ingress RB enables the feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM and uses the DVLAN ID of the TRILL network as the inner VLAN ID when generating the TRILL OAM packet through encapsulation. [0092] Optionally, the ingress RB further includes a feature processing module configured to enable or disable the feature for designating an inner VLAN for OAM. [0093] Further, the egress RB includes a receiving module configured to receive the TRILL OAM packet, a decapsulating module configured to perform the TRILL decapsulation on the TRILL OAM packet to obtain the OAM packet, and an OAM processing module configured to process the OAM packet. [0094] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, a TRILL network uses a DVLAN for TRILL OAM. Because each RB on a TRILL network generally configures and creates a DVLAN, it may be avoided that because an inner VLAN is not a VLAN concerned by an RB, a packet is discarded. Furthermore, the DVLAN is a valid VLAN, and therefore the packet is not discarded due to a validity check, thereby ensuring availability of a TRILL OAM function. In addition, a DVLAN ID is designated as an inner VLAN ID of a TRILL OAM packet, and no extra VLAN resource is occupied. Furthermore, because the DVLAN does not learn a MAC address by default, the RB can be prevented from learning a MAC address that should not be learned, and a TRILL protocol forwarding procedure is not affected. [0095] The foregoing descriptions are merely exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present disclosure. Any variation or replacement readily figured out by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure shall all fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.
A method for implementing operation, administration and maintenance (OAM), a routing bridge (RB) and a Transparent Interconnection of Lots of Links (TRILL) network are described. A designated virtual local area network identifier (DVLAN ID) of a TRILL network is designated to be used for TRILL OAM, so that an inner virtual local area network identifier (VLAN ID) and an outer VLAN ID of a TRILL OAM packet are both a DVLAN ID, thereby ensuring availability of a TRILL OAM function.
7
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS The present disclosure is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/034,846 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,347,034), filed on Jan. 13, 2005. This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/034,677 (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,685,372), filed on Jan. 13, 2005. The entire disclosures of the applications referenced above are incorporated herein by reference. FIELD The present invention relates to cache memory. BACKGROUND As main memories continue to grow larger and processors run faster, the disparity in their operating speeds has widened. As a result, a cache that bridges the gap by storing a portion of main memory in a smaller and faster structure has become increasingly important. When the processor core needs data, it first checks the cache. If the cache presently contains the requested data (a cache hit), it can be retrieved far faster than resorting to main memory (a cache miss). There are often multiple caches between the processing core and main memory in what is referred to as a memory hierarchy. Referring to FIG. 1A , a generic two level cache architecture 10 is shown. A processing core 12 communicates with a level one (L1) cache 14 which in turn communicates with a level two (L2) cache 16 . The L2 cache 16 communicates with main memory 18 . Hierarchies including even a third (L3) cache are not uncommon. The hierarchy levels nearest the processing core 12 are the fastest, but store the least amount of data. In a typical 32-bit system, each individual 32-bit address refers to a single byte of memory. Many 32-bit processors access memory one word at a time, where a word is equal to four bytes. Caches usually store data in groups of words called cache lines. For illustrative purposes, consider an exemplary cache having eight words per cache line. The four addressable bytes in each word require that the two least significant bits (2 2 =4 bytes in each word) in the 32-bit address select a particular byte from a word. With eight words in a cache line, the next three least significant bits (2 3 =8 words in each line) in the address select a word from a given cache line. A cache contains storage space for a limited number of cache lines. The cache controller must therefore decide which lines of memory are to be stored in the cache and where they are to be placed. In the most straightforward placement method, direct mapping, there is only one location in the cache where a given line of memory may be stored. In a two-way set-associative cache, there are two locations in the cache where a given line of memory may be stored. Similarly, in an n-way set associative cache, there are n locations in the cache where a specific line of memory may be stored. In the extreme case, n is equal to the number of lines in the cache, the cache is referred to as fully associative, and a line of memory may be stored in any location within the cache. Direct mapping generally uses the low order bits of the address to select the cache location in which to store the memory line. For instance, if there are 2 k cache lines, k low order address bits determine which cache location to store the data from the memory line into. These k address bits are often referred to as the index. Because many memory lines map to the same cache location, the cache must also store an address tag to signify which memory line is currently stored at that cache location. Returning to the exemplary eight word per line cache, assume that the cache contains 4096 (2 12 ) cache lines. This configuration will result in a cache size of 128 KB (2 12 lines*2 3 words per line*2 2 bytes per word=2 17 bytes). With 2 12 cache lines, the twelve low order address bits will be used to decide which location in the cache a memory line will be stored at. The 32-bit address space of the memory can accommodate 2 32 bytes (4 GB), or 2 27 cache lines. This means that there are 32,768 (2 27 /2 12 =2 15 ) memory lines that map to each cache location. A tag field must thus be included for each cache location to determine which of the 2 15 memory lines is currently stored. The five least significant bits in the address select a byte from a cache line. Three bits select a word from the cache line, and two bits select a byte within the word. Twelve bits form the index to select one of the 2 12 cache lines from the cache. The fifteen-bit address tag allows the complete 32-bit address to be formed. These fields are depicted graphically in FIG. 1B . Many computer systems currently allow the use of more memory than is physically available through the use of virtual memory. At its essence, virtual memory allows individual program processes to run in an address space that is larger than is physically available. The process simply addresses memory as if it were the only process running. This is a virtual address space unconstrained by the size of main memory or the presence of other processes. The process can access virtual memory starting at 0x0, regardless of what region of physical memory is actually allocated to the process. A combination of operating system software and physical hardware translates between virtual addresses and the physical domain. If more virtual address space is in use than exists in physical main memory, the operating system will have to manage which virtual address ranges are stored in memory, and which are located on a secondary storage medium such as magnetic disk. Level one (L1) caches are often located on the same die as the processing core. This allows very fast communication between the two and permits the L1 cache to run at processor speed. A level two (L2) cache located off chip requires more than a single processor cycle to access data and is referred to as a multi-cycle cache. Main memory is even slower, requiring tens of cycles to access. In order for the L1 cache to operate at processor speed, the L1 cache typically uses the virtual addressing scheme of the processor. This avoids the overhead of virtual-physical translation in this critical path. While the L1 cache is examined to determine if it contains the requested address, the virtual address is translated to a physical address. If the L1 cache does not contain the requested address, the L2 cache is consulted using the translated physical address. The L2 cache can then communicate with the bus and main memory using physical addresses. Cache coherence is a key concern when using caches. Operations such as direct memory access (DMA) request direct access to the main memory from the processor. Data that has been cached in the L1 or L2 caches may have been changed by the processor since being read from main memory. The data subsequently read from main memory by the DMA device would therefore be outdated. This is the essence of the problem of cache coherence. One technique for enforcing cache coherence is to implement a write-through architecture. Any change made to cached data is immediately propagated to any lower level caches and also to main memory. The disadvantage to this approach is that writing through to memory uses precious time, and may be unnecessary if further changes are going to be made prior to data being needed in main memory. Most current cache configurations instead use write-back mode. In write-back mode, a change made to the contents of a cache is not propagated through to memory until specifically instructed to. A piece of data that has been changed in a cache but not yet propagated through to the next level of cache or to main memory is referred to as dirty. The cache location can be “cleaned” by directing the cache to be written back to the cache below or to the memory thereby making the piece of data clean, or coherent. This may happen at regular intervals, when the memory is available, or when the processor determines that a certain location of memory will need the updated value. An analogous cache coherency problem occurs when data has been changed in main memory, and one of the caches now contains an outdated copy. The applicable lines in the cache thus need to be “flushed,” or invalidated. Flushing a cache line involves marking it as invalid. When the processor next requests that data from the cache, the cache misses and must retrieve the updated data from main memory. In order to facilitate maintaining cache coherence, some processors have a register set that allows the processor to issue cache coherency commands. If the processor believes that a piece of data is needed in main memory, the processor can issue a clean command. The clean command may be targeted to a specific cache line, or to some portion of the entire cache. The processor can also issue flush commands. This tells the cache to invalidate or flush a certain region memory, a certain cache line, or the entire cache. SUMMARY A digital system that connects to a bus that employs physical addresses comprises a processing core. A level one (L1) cache communicates with the processing core. A level two (L2) cache communicates with the L1 cache. Both the L1 cache and the L2 cache are indexed by virtual addresses and tagged with virtual addresses. A bus unit communicates with the L2 cache and with the bus. In other features, the L2 cache is write-through or direct mapped. A bus write buffer communicates with the processing core and the bus unit and stores data. An L2 write buffer communicates with the processing core and the L2 cache and stores data. A line fill buffer communicates with the bus unit and the L2 cache and stores data. A digital system that connects to a bus that employs a first address domain comprises a processing core. A level one (L1) cache communicates with the processing core. A level two (L2) cache communicates with the L1 cache. Each of the processing core, the L1 cache, and the L2 cache employ a second addressing domain. A bus unit communicates with the L2 cache and with the bus. The bus unit employs the first addressing domain. In other features, the first addressing domain is physical and the second addressing domain is virtual. The L2 cache is write-through or direct mapped. A bus write buffer stores and communicates data from the processing core to the bus unit. An L2 write buffer stores and communicates data from the processing core to the L2 cache. A line fill buffer stores and communicates data from the bus unit to the L2 cache. A computer cache for a memory comprises a data random-access memory (RAM) containing a plurality of cache lines. Each of the cache lines stores a segment of the memory. A tag RAM contains a plurality of address tags that correspond to the cache lines. A valid RAM contains a plurality of validity values that correspond to the cache lines. The valid RAM is stored separately from the tag RAM and the data RAM. The valid RAM is selectively independently clearable. A hit module determines whether data is stored in the computer cache based upon the valid RAM and the tag RAM. A computer cache for accessing portions of a memory comprises a data random-access memory (RAM) containing a plurality of cache lines. Each of the cache lines stores a segment of the memory. Each of the cache lines is referenced by an n-bit index. Each of the cache lines is associated with an m-bit address tag. A tag RAM contains a plurality of p-bit address labels that store p most significant bits of the address tags. A valid RAM contains a validity value for each of the cache lines. Each of the address labels corresponds to k validity values. In other features, p is equal to m minus x. x is an integer greater than or equal to one. Each of the address labels corresponds to k cache lines. k is equal to two times x. The valid RAM is stored separately from the tag RAM and the data RAM. The valid RAM is selectively independently clearable. A transparent level two (L2) cache for a processing core and L1 cache that use a first index and first address tags during a first mode of cache addressing comprises a data random-access memory (RAM) that stores data from the memory as a plurality of cache lines. The cache lines are accessed via the first index. A tag RAM stores the first address tags for the cache lines. A valid RAM stores a validity value for each of the cache lines. A cache coherence instruction interpreter selectively clears the valid RAM based upon at least one of the first index and/or a match of one of the first address tags. In other features, an L2 write buffer stores and communicates data from the processing core to the L2 cache. The cache coherence instruction interpreter selectively instructs the L2 write buffer to flush. The cache coherence instructions are Advanced RISC Machines CP15 instructions. The L2 cache is write-through or direct mapped. A method for operating a digital system that connects to a bus that employs physical addresses comprises providing a processing core. A level one (L1) cache communicates with the processing core. A level two (L2) cache communicates with the L1 cache. Both the L1 cache and the L2 cache are indexing using virtual addresses. Both the L1 cache and the L2 cache are tagged with virtual addresses. A bus unit communicates with the L2 cache and with the bus. In other features, the L2 cache is write-through or directly mapped. Data is stored in a bus write buffer that communicates with the processing core and the bus unit. Data is stored in an L2 write buffer that communicates with the processing core and the L2 cache. Data is stored in a line fill buffer that communicates with the bus unit and the L2 cache. A method of operating a digital system that connects to a bus that employs a first address domain comprises providing a processing core, a level one (L1) cache that communicates with the processing core, and a level two (L2) cache that communicates with the L1 cache. A second addressing domain is employed for each of the processing core, the L1 cache, and the L2 cache. A first addressing domain is employed for a bus unit communicates with the L2 cache and with the bus. In other features, the first addressing domain is physical and the second addressing domain is virtual. The L2 cache is write-through or direct mapped. Data is stored and communicated from the processing core to the bus unit using a bus write buffer. Data is stored and communicated from the processing core to the L2 cache using an L2 write buffer. Data is stored and communicated from the bus unit to the L2 cache using a line fill buffer. A method for operating a computer cache for a memory comprises providing a data random-access memory (RAM) containing a plurality of cache lines. A segment of the memory is stored in each of the cache lines. A plurality of address tags are stored that correspond to the cache lines in a tag RAM. A plurality of validity values are stored that correspond to the cache lines a valid RAM. The valid RAM is stored separately from the tag RAM and the data RAM. The valid RAM is selectively independently cleared. Data is selectively stored in the computer cache based upon the valid RAM and the tag RAM. A method for operating a computer cache for a memory comprises providing a data random-access memory (RAM) containing a plurality of cache lines. A segment of the memory is stored in each of the cache lines. A plurality of address tags that correspond to the cache lines are stored in a tag RAM. A plurality of validity values that correspond to the cache lines are stored in a valid RAM. The valid RAM is stored separately from the tag RAM and the data RAM. The valid RAM is selectively independently cleared. Data is selectively stored in the computer cache based upon the valid RAM and the tag RAM. A method for operating a computer cache for providing access to portions of a memory comprises providing a data random-access memory (RAM) containing a plurality of cache lines. A segment of the memory is stored in each of the cache lines. Each of the cache lines is referenced by an n-bit index. Each of the cache lines is associated with an m-bit address tag. p most significant bits of the address tags are stored in a tag RAM containing a plurality of p-bit address labels. A validity value is stored for each of the cache lines. Each of the address labels corresponds to k validity values. In other features, p is equal to m minus x. x is an integer greater than or equal to one. Each of the address labels corresponds to k cache lines. k is equal to two times x. The valid RAM is stored separately from the tag RAM and the data RAM. The valid RAM is selectively independently cleared. A method for operating a transparent level two (L2) cache for a processing core and L1 cache that use a first index and first address tags during a first mode of cache addressing comprises providing a data random-access memory (RAM) that stores data from the memory as a plurality of cache lines. The cache lines are accessed via the first index. The first address tags for the cache lines are stored in a tag RAM. A validity value for each of the cache lines is stored in a valid RAM. The valid RAM is selectively independently cleared based upon at least one of the first index and/or a match of one of the first address tags. In other features, data is stored and communicated from the processing core to the L2 cache using an L2 write buffer. The L2 write buffer is selectively instructed to flush. The L2 cache is write-through or direct mapped. A digital system that connects to a bus that employs physical addresses comprises processing core means for processing. Level one (L1) cache means stores data and communicates with the processing core. Level two (L2) cache means stores data and communicates with the L1 cache. Both the L1 cache means and the L2 cache means are indexed by virtual addresses and tagged with virtual addresses. Bus means communicates with the L2 cache means and with the bus. In other features, the L2 cache means is write-through or direct mapped. Bus write buffer means stores data and communicates with the processing core and the bus unit. L2 write buffer means stores data and communicates with the processing core and the L2 cache. Line fill buffer means stores data and communicates with the bus unit and the L2 cache. A digital system that connects to a bus that employs a first address domain comprises processing core means for processing. Level one (L1) cache means stores data and communicates with the processing core means. Level two (L2) cache means stores data and communicates with the L1 cache means. Each of the processing core means, the L1 cache means, and the L2 cache means employ a second addressing domain. Bus means communicates with the L2 cache means and with the bus and employs the first addressing domain. In other features, the first addressing domain is physical and the second addressing domain is virtual. The L2 cache means is write-through or direct mapped. Bus write buffer means stores and communicates data from the processing core means to the bus means. L2 write buffer means stores and communicates data from the processing core means to the L2 cache means. Line fill buffer means stores and communicates data from the bus means to the L2 cache means. A computer cache for a memory comprises data storing means that includes a plurality of cache lines and that stores a segment of the memory. Tag storing means stores a plurality of address tags that correspond to the cache lines. Valid storing means stores a plurality of validity values that correspond to the cache lines. The valid storing means is stored separately from the tag storing means and the data storing means. The valid storing means is selectively independently clearable. Hit means determines whether data is stored in the computer cache based upon the valid storing means and the tag storing means. A computer cache for providing access to portions of a memory comprises data storing means containing a plurality of cache lines that store a segment of the memory, that are referenced by an n-bit index, and that are associated with an m-bit address tag. Tag storing means contains a plurality of p-bit address labels that store p most significant bits of the address tags. Valid storing means containing a validity value for each of the cache lines. Each of the address labels corresponds to k validity values. In other features, p is equal to m minus x. x is an integer greater than or equal to one. Each of the address labels corresponds to k cache lines. k is equal to two times x. The valid storing means is stored separately from the tag storing means and the data storing means. The valid storing means is selectively independently clearable. A transparent level two (L2) cache for a processing core and L1 cache that use a first index and first address tags during a first mode of cache addressing comprises data storing means that stores data from the memory as a plurality of cache lines that are accessed via the first index. Tag storing means stores the first address tags for the cache lines. Valid storing means stores a validity value for each of the cache lines. Cache coherence means selectively clears the valid storing means based upon at least one of the first index and/or a match of one of the first address tags. In other features, L2 write buffer means stores and communicates data from the processing core means to the L2 cache. The cache coherence means selectively instructs the L2 write buffer means to flush. The L2 cache is write-through or direct mapped. Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein: FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a generic two level cache architecture according to the prior art; FIG. 1B is a graphical depiction of address fields within a cache according to the prior art; FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer system according to the principles of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a datapath of an exemplary implementation of a level two cache according to the principles of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a flow chart of exemplary steps performed by a combination of L1 and L2 cache to implement read/write commands, according to the principles of the present invention; FIG. 5 is a flow chart of exemplary steps performed by the level 2 cache alone to implement read/write commands; FIG. 6 is a flow chart of exemplary steps performed by an exemplary L2 cache in response to cache coherence instructions according to the principles of the present invention; FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of the handling of cache coherence instructions within an L2 cache according to the principles of the present invention; FIG. 8A is a graphical depiction of address fields and tag bits for a pair of cache lines according to the prior art; and FIG. 8B is a graphical depiction of address fields and tag bits for a pair of cache lines according to the principles of the present invention. DESCRIPTION The following description of the preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. For purposes of clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to identify similar elements. A system with only a level one (L1) cache will generally recognize a performance improvement when a level 2 (L2) cache is added. Normally, this entails operating system and/or driver changes for a number of reasons. Because the L2 cache is physically addressed, as opposed to the virtual addressing of the processor and L1 cache, the translation process must be accounted for. Cache coherence commands are difficult to adapt between the physical and virtual domains. The additional level of cache may create further cache coherency and delay problems. An exemplary L2 cache controller according to the principles of the present invention uses virtual address tags and virtual indexing for the L2 cache. Referring now to FIG. 2 , a block diagram of an exemplary computer system 100 according to the principles of the present invention is presented. A processing core 102 communicates with an I-cache 104 and a D-cache 106 , which together form an L1 cache 108 . The I-cache 104 and D-cache 106 communicate with an L2 cache 110 . The L2 cache 110 communicates with a line fill buffer 112 , and the line fill buffer 112 communicates with a bus unit 114 . The bus unit 114 communicates with a bus 116 , which communicates with main memory 118 , secondary storage 120 (such as a hard disk drive), and other devices 122 (which may require direct memory access). The processing core 102 communicates data to an L2 write buffer 124 , and to a bus write buffer 126 . The L2 write buffer 124 communicates data to the L2 cache 110 , while the bus write buffer 126 communicates data to the bus unit 114 . Referring now to FIG. 3 , a datapath for an exemplary implementation of a level two (L2) cache 140 according to the principles of the present invention is presented. A cache coherence address generation module 142 receives a cache coherence address. A first multiplexer (MUX) 144 receives a write buffer address, an instruction cache address, and a data cache address. The first MUX 144 also receives an output from the cache coherence address generation module 142 . An output of the first MUX 144 is communicated to a comparator 146 , a tag storage device 148 , a valid storage device 150 , a line fill address generation module 152 , and a second MUX 154 . The second MUX 154 receives output from the line fill address generation module 152 and communicates an output of the second MUX 154 to a data storage device 156 . A third MUX 158 receives write buffer data and receives output from a line fill buffer 160 . The line fill buffer 160 receives bus data. An output of the third MUX 158 is communicated to the data storage device 156 . An output of the tag storage device 148 is output to the comparator 146 . The result of the comparator 146 operation is communicated to an AND gate 162 . An output of the valid storage device 150 is communicated to the AND gate 162 . An output of the AND gate 162 signifies a hit. Output of the data storage device 156 is communicated to a fourth MUX 164 . The output of the line fill buffer 160 is also communicated to the fourth MUX 164 . An output of the fourth MUX 164 is communicated as instruction cache data and data cache data. Tag storage, valid storage, and data storage are shown separately, although one skilled in the art will recognize that they are often not physically stored separately. In a preferred embodiment, the tag storage, valid storage, and data storage are accessible separately. In particular, the valid storage is clearable separately, although one skilled in the art will recognize that this is not necessary for the L2 cache controller to perform correctly. The first MUX 144 controls whether an address request for the L2 cache 140 will come from the write buffer, a cache coherence instruction, the instruction cache, or the data cache. The second MUX 154 selects between the address provided by the first MUX 144 and a series of addresses provided by the line fill address generation module 152 . The line fill address generation module 152 provides a series of addresses when an entire cache line is read into the data storage device 156 from the line fill buffer 160 . The third MUX 158 selects between the data from the write buffer and the data from the line fill buffer 160 . The second MUX 154 and third MUX 158 are therefore controlled in unison. The fourth MUX 164 selects between data from the data storage device 156 and data from the line fill buffer 160 . If the L2 cache did not contain the data sought by the L1 cache, the L2 cache will read it from the bus unit 114 . The fourth MUX 164 allows the data being retrieved from the bus unit 114 to be relayed immediately to the instruction or data cache as it is being stored in the data storage device 156 . To determine an L2 cache hit, the comparator 146 compares the tag field from the first MUX 144 with the output of the tag storage device 148 . If the tags match, and the appropriate valid information in the valid storage device 150 indicates that the cache line is valid, the AND gate 162 communicates that there is an L2 cache hit. This signifies that the data being output from the fourth MUX 164 is valid for the instruction and data caches to latch. Referring now to FIG. 4 , a flow chart presents exemplary steps performed by a combination of L1 and L2 cache to implement read/write commands, according to the principles of the present invention. Control begins at step 182 and remains in step 182 while the caches are idle. If a received command is a read, control transfers to step 184 ; otherwise, if the command is a write, control transfers to step 186 . If the read is not cacheable in step 184 , control transfers to step 188 . If the read is cacheable, control transfers to step 190 . In step 188 , the L1 cache reads data from the bus. Control then returns to step 182 . In step 190 , control determines whether there is a hit in the L1 cache. If there is a hit in the L1 cache, control transfers to step 192 ; otherwise control transfers to step 196 . In step 192 , the L1 cache returns data and control returns to step 182 . The L1 cache requests a physical address translation from a memory management unit, and control continues at step 196 . In step 196 , if there is a hit in the L2 cache, control transfers to step 198 ; otherwise control transfers to step 200 . In step 200 , the L2 cache is line filled from the bus. Control then transfers to step 198 . In step 198 , the L1 cache is line filled from the L2 cache, and control transfers to step 192 . In step 186 , if the write is not cacheable, control transfers to step 202 ; otherwise, control transfers to step 204 . In step 202 , if the write is bufferable, control transfers to step 206 ; otherwise control transfers to step 208 . In step 206 , the L1 cache writes to the bus write buffer, and control returns to step 182 . In step 208 , the L1 cache writes to the bus directly and control returns to step 182 . In step 204 , if the write is bufferable, control transfers to step 210 ; otherwise control transfers to step 212 . In step 210 , if there is a hit in the L1 cache, control transfers to step 214 ; otherwise control transfers to step 216 . In step 214 , data is written to the L1 cache, and the line is marked as dirty. Control then returns to step 182 . In step 216 , if there is a hit in the L2 cache, control transfers to step 218 ; otherwise control transfers to step 220 . In step 218 , data is written to the L2 cache, and control continues with step 220 . In step 220 , data is written to the bus write buffer and control returns to step 182 . In step 212 , if there is an L1 hit, control transfers to step 221 ; otherwise, control transfers to step 216 . In step 221 , data is written to the L1 cache and control continues with step 218 . Referring now to FIG. 5 , a flow chart depicts exemplary steps performed by the level 2 cache alone to implement read/write commands. Control begins in step 224 . If no read/write command is received, or the read/write command is not cacheable, control remains in step 224 . If the read/write command is cacheable, control transfers to step 226 . In step 226 , if the read/write command is a read, control transfers to step 228 ; otherwise control transfers to step 230 . In step 228 , if there is a hit in the L1 cache, control returns to step 224 ; otherwise, control transfers to step 232 . If there is an L2 cache hit in step 232 , control transfers to step 234 ; otherwise control transfers to step 236 . In step 234 , the L2 cache returns data and control returns to step 224 . In step 236 , the L2 cache is line filled and the L2 cache returns data and control returns to step 224 . Referring now to step 230 , if the write is bufferable, control transfers to step 238 ; otherwise control transfers to step 240 . In step 238 , if there is an L1 hit, control returns to step 224 ; otherwise control transfers to step 242 . In step 242 , if there is an L2 hit, control transfers to step 244 ; otherwise control returns to step 224 . In step 244 , data is written to the L2 cache and control returns to step 224 . In step 240 , if there is an L1 cache hit, control transfers to step 246 ; otherwise control transfers to step 248 . In step 246 , data is written to the L2 cache and control returns to step 224 . In step 248 , if there is not an L2 cache hit, control returns to step 224 . Otherwise, control transfers to step 250 where data is written to the L2 cache, and control returns to step 224 . Referring now to FIG. 6 , a flow chart depicts exemplary steps performed by an exemplary L2 cache in response to cache coherence instructions according to the principles of the present invention. Control begins at step 274 and remains in step 274 while there is no cache coherence command. If the command is to drain the write buffer, control transfers to step 276 ; for any other command, control transfers to step 278 . In step 276 , the L2 write buffer is drained and control returns to step 274 . In step 278 , if the instruction is a prefetch, control transfers to step 280 ; otherwise control transfers to step 282 . In step 280 , if there is an L2 hit on the prefetched line, control transfers to step 284 ; otherwise control transfers to step 286 . In step 286 , the L2 cache is line filled from the bus unit, and control continues with step 284 . In step 284 , data is returned from the L2 cache and control returns to step 274 . In step 282 , if the command is invalidate, control transfers to step 284 . If the instruction is not invalidate, no action is required by the L2 cache, and control returns to step 274 . In step 284 , if the invalidate instruction is for the entire cache, control transfers to step 286 ; otherwise control transfers to step 288 . In step 286 , the L2 cache sets all valid entries to zero and control returns to step 274 . In step 288 , if the invalidate command uses a virtual address; control transfers to step 290 ; otherwise control transfers to step 292 . In step 292 , because the invalidate instruction is not using a virtual address, it is using an index of the L1 cache. The L2 cache must therefore set the valid information to zero on all lines of the L2 cache that map to the specified L1 cache index. Control then returns to step 274 . In step 290 , if there is an L2 hit, control transfers to step 294 ; otherwise control returns to step 274 . In step 294 , the valid data is set to zero on whichever L2 cache line registered the hit. Control then returns to step 274 . Referring now to FIG. 7 , a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of the handling of cache coherence instructions within an L2 cache 310 according to the principles of the present invention is depicted. A processing core 312 contains a cache coherence control module 314 . The cache coherence control module 314 communicates a command and an index or address to an L1 cache 316 and to a cache coherence command interpreter 318 within the L2 cache 310 . When the cache coherence command interpreter 318 has concluded a command, a DONE signal is transmitted to a first AND gate 322 . The 11 cache also transmits a DONE signal to the first AND gate 322 . An output DONE of the first AND gate is transmitted to the cache coherence control module 314 . An L2 write buffer 324 communicates an empty signal to a second AND gate 326 when the L2 write buffer 324 is empty. Likewise, a bus write buffer 328 communicates an empty signal to the second AND gate 326 when the bus write buffer 328 is empty. An output empty of the second AND gate 326 is communicated to the cache coherence control module 314 . The cache coherence command interpreter 318 communicates a cache index to a tag storage device 330 and to a valid storage device 332 . The cache coherence command interpreter 318 communicates an address tag to a comparator 334 . The tag storage device 330 outputs an address tag to the comparator 334 . An output of the comparator 334 is communicated to a third AND gate 336 . The cache coherence command interpreter 318 transmits a clear signal to the third AND gate 336 and to a multiplexer (MUX) 338 . The cache coherence command interpreter 318 also transmits a conditional signal to a selection input of the MUX 338 . A selected output of the MUX 338 is communicated to the valid storage device 332 . In this implementation, commands issued to the cache coherence control module 314 do not have to be altered to allow cache coherence control of the L2 cache. Operation of the L2 cache with regard to cache coherence instructions is transparent to programs running on the processing core 312 . For example, a cache coherence controller normally waits for the bus write buffer to empty when a drain write buffer command has been issued. In the current architecture, the empty signal from the bus write buffer 328 is combined with the empty signal from the L2 write buffer 324 using the second AND gate 326 . When the cache coherence controller 312 receives the resulting empty signal, the program requesting the write buffer drain from the cache coherence control module 314 does not need to know that both write buffers, 324 and 328 , have been emptied. The program simply thinks that the requested bus write buffer 328 has been drained. Similarly, the first AND gate 322 produces a DONE signal from the DONE signals of the L1 cache 316 and the L2 cache coherence command interpreter 318 . The cache coherence command interpreter is responsible for clearing valid bits in the valid storage device 332 of the L2 cache 310 . A clear signal and cache index are sent to the valid storage device 332 . The MUX 338 selects whether the clear signal or a conditional clear signal is transmitted to the valid storage device 332 . If the cache coherence command seeks to invalidate only a certain address, a tag check must first be accomplished. This is the function of the comparator 334 . The selected cache line within the valid storage device 332 is then cleared only if the L2 cache 310 contains the specified memory address. In traditional direct mapped caches, the cache stores an address tag and a valid bit for each cache line. When combined with the index of the cache line (the cache lines are numbered sequentially using an index), the memory address of the cache line is obtained. The least significant bits select a particular byte from the chosen cache line. FIG. 8A is a graphical depiction of address fields and tag bits for a pair of cache lines. In an example 128 KB cache with eight words per line, 15 bits store an address tag for each cache line, and one valid bit stores validity information for each cache line. For two cache lines, thirty-two (15*2+1*2) bits are used to store address tag and validity information, as shown shaded in FIG. 8A . FIG. 8B is a graphical depiction of address fields and tag bits for a pair of cache lines according to the principles of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, multiple cache lines can share the same address tag. For a 128 KB cache, the 2 12 cache lines can be organized into 2 11 cache line pairs. To form a full cache line address, a 16 bit address tag is needed. The cache line pair shares the most significant 15 bits of the address tag. The first cache line in the cache line pair corresponds to the least significant bit (LSB) of the cache index being 0, while the second cache line corresponds to the LSB being 1. In order to store two cache lines, the cache according to the principles of the present invention need store only 17 bits (15+2*1). This represents a reduction in tag storage by nearly half from the 32 bits needed in the prior art. The stored tag and validity information is shown shaded in FIG. 8B . In a preferred embodiment, the validity information of the cache is stored separately from tag information and data information so that the validity information can be cleared independently. The cache can be invalidated quickly by setting all validity information to an invalid state. Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoing description that the broad teachings of the present invention can be implemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while this invention has been described in connection with particular examples thereof, the true scope of the invention should not be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings, the specification and the following claims.
A system comprising a processor, a first cache, and a second cache. The processor is configured to perform a processing task according to data stored in a main memory and output a command associated with the processing task. The first cache is located between the processor and the main memory and is configured to store a first portion of the data stored in the main memory and provide a first indication of whether the command has been completed at the first cache. The second cache is located between the first cache and the main memory and is configured to store a second portion of the data stored in the main memory and provide a second indication of whether the command has been completed at the second cache. The processor is configured to perform the processing task in response to receiving both the first indication and the second indication.
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FIELD OF INVENTION This invention relates to respiratory valves used in endotracheal medical procedures involving a respirator, a resuscitation bag, and a suction catheter. In particular, the present invention is a respiratory valve that facilitates rapid switching between a respirator, or breathing machine, and a resuscitation bag while maintaining ventilation functions and without losing positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP), the respiratory valve permitting the withdrawal and insertion of a catheter from a sanitary self-contained enclosure for endotracheal suctioning. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Respiratory support systems are commonly used to support the respiratory system of a critically ill patient for maintaining optimal blood oxygen levels, as well as optimal carbon dioxide levels and acid base balance. Typically, a prior art respiratory support system includes a tracheal tube, positioned either directly through the nose or mouth into the trachea of a patient. A multi-ported manifold is connected to the endotracheal tube at one port position, and a source of breathable gas is connected at a second port. The respiratory support system assists the patient in maintaining adequate blood oxygenation levels without overtaxing the patient's heart and lungs. While a patient is attached to the respiratory support system, it is periodically necessary to aspirate fluids and or secretions from the patient's trachea and lungs. In the past, in order to accomplish aspiration, it was necessary to disassemble part of the respiratory support system, either by removing the ventilator manifold or by opening a port thereof and inserting a small diameter suction tube down the tracheal tube and into the patient's trachea and lungs. The fluid was then suctioned from the patient and the suction catheter was removed and the respiratory support system reassembled. However, due to the interruption of respiratory support during this procedure, a patient's blood oxygen can often drop and the carbon dioxide can change to unacceptable levels. Additionally, unless a sufficient positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) level is maintained, then the lungs might collapse. This creates a dangerous condition for the patient because the lungs can be difficult, and sometimes impossible, to reinflate. Patients may have fluid drawn from their lungs as often as six times a day and sometimes more, possibly over long periods of time. For this reason, it is critical to provide a respiratory device which will minimize patient discomfort. In addition, such a device could be widely used in treating pediatric patients, especially premature infants who are subject to respiratory problems and may need frequent aspirations. As a result of the extremely large number of aspirations necessary on various patients in any period, it is important that the price of the respiratory device be as low as possible since vast numbers will be used. It is also important that the device be sufficiently inexpensive so that it may be discarded after a single use. Hence, it is desirable to simplify such devices and reduce the number of parts in order to reduce costs and increase reliability. Prior art devices have attempted to maintain a continuous flow of oxygen from the respirator device through to the lungs, while allowing for insertion and retraction of the suction catheter. However, such devices fail to provide an operable system capable of performing both manual and machine assisted respiration without disconnecting the respirator. Manual respiration with a resuscitation bag is a preferred method among many practitioners because it optimizes removal of fluids in the lungs while maintaining PEEP and maintaining cardiopulmonary and hemodynamic balance. U.S. Pat. No. 4,351,328 discloses a device for simultaneous respiration and endotracheal suctioning of a critically ill patient. This device requires a specialized sealing port for insertion and retraction of the suction catheter to maintain the integrity of the respiration system. While machine assisted respiration is occurring, no switchover to manual resuscitation methods is provided. U.S. Pat. No. 5,343,857 discloses an accessory port capable of receiving a specially designed male adaptor on a suction catheter. The accessory port consists of a normally closed valve which is forced open by the male adaptor, and returns to its closed position upon retraction of the adaptor. The adaptor sealably interacts with the accessory port so as to inhibit pressure loss from the manifold. A similar device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,309,902. As detailed in the background discussions of these prior art disclosures, there are many difficulties associated with maintaining continuous pressure from the respiration supply device. More particularly, it is often desirable to be able to manually inflate the lungs with a resuscitation bag at different rates and different volumes in order to facilitate complete aspiration of mucous and liquid from the lungs. With the extra "hands-on" control offered by the resuscitation bag, a doctor or technician can simulate expectory coughing actions and the like through quick inflation and deflation bursts. Moreover, PEEP can be easily maintained with the resuscitation bag, while the suction catheter is repeatedly inserted and retracted from the lungs as needed. Other interface devices require the respirator source to be disconnected in order to attach the desired resuscitation bag. Once aspiration is complete, this presents a problem with maintaining PEEP when the resuscitation bag is disconnected and the respirator source is reconnected. Even if performed in a timely and efficient manner, this switchover operation can jeopardize the patient's life if PEEP is not maintained. Hence, it is important to minimize this switchover time, while also providing for attachment of the resuscitation bag. Other devices remain connected to the respirator source and do not allow for use of a resuscitation bag. U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,641 discloses a switching device with a rotary valve having aspiration, insufflation, and intermediate flushing positions. An oxygen port and suction port are included with a catheter port. These ports allow suction and insufflation to alternately occur through the continuously inserted catheter, without withdrawal of the catheter tube from the lungs. While providing a neutral valve position, this arrangement might still encounter problems such as blow-back of mucous through the inserted catheter, and/or clogging of the valve parts by suctioned mucous. U.S. Pat. No. 3,780,736 discloses a surgical valve assembly for urinary bladder irrigation and drainage. This valve has four ports and provides a core for interconnecting any two of the four ports. The core allows irrigation fluids to flow from one port to another, but the '736 device does not disclose a valve for introduction and withdrawal of a suction catheter through the device in either of two switched positions, and the '736 device does not disclose ports for receiving air from a respirator in one switched position or alternatively from a resuscitation bag in the other switched position. Given the frequent insertion and withdrawal of the suction catheter, a protective bag, or sleeve, would also be a useful addition to existing suction catheter devices. This bag would prevent external contact with the catheter thereby maintaining a sterile device for reinsertion into the patient. U.S. Pat. No. 5,073,164 discloses a specialized catheter which incorporates a protective sleeve. A bag which can be sealably attached around any existing suction catheter would be even more versatile than the incorporated sleeve. Accordingly, what is lacking in the art is a respiratory valve device which can accommodate the introduction of a suction catheter into a patient's lungs while maintaining connection with an external respirator source, and which will subsequently allow uninterrupted respiratory switchover to a resuscitation bag to maintain optimal ventilation. An attachable bag and associated attachment fixture should be provided which protects the withdrawn catheter during switchover of the valve and otherwise. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a respiratory valve apparatus with a housing having an inner rotating assembly which can be rotated between two switching positions. The first position allows a flow-through connection between a patient and an external respirator support system. The second position provides a flow-through connection to a resuscitation bag. A patient can thereby receive continuous support from a respirator support or an attached resuscitation bag, depending upon the position of the valve. The valve assembly provides a port with a sealing orifice for insertion and retraction of a suction catheter through the valve assembly and into the patient's lungs as needed. The resuscitation bag may be preferable over a continuous respirator support system connection because of added control over lung inflation provided. Many operators prefer the greater endotracheal and lung clearing results that can be achieved by simulating coughing attained through the use of the resuscitation bag. By providing an efficient switchover between the respirator and resuscitation bag, a patient can be treated in such a manner without having to disconnect the respirator support system to thereby connect the resuscitation bag. This prevents the loss of positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) in the lungs and guards against lung collapse and hemodynamic compromise. The apparatus additionally utilizes a protective bag designed to fit around any suction catheter and prevents outside contact with the catheter when it is withdrawn from the patient. This eliminates the need to constantly change-out the catheter if it touches external objects and becomes contaminated. A fixture is included which fits over the suction catheter port and has an inner conical surface to help guide the catheter through the more flexible center part of the suction port orifice. The bag would be sealed around the fixture and around the upper part of the catheter via strips of adhesive tape or any other such material. The bag might also be bonded directly to the fixture and to the suction catheter. The fixture also includes a saline flush port. Additional features might include a hingably attached cover for the resuscitation bag port when a resuscitation bag is not attached. An endotracheal tube would also be removably attached to the valve assembly body to guide the catheter downwards into the patient's lungs. A hingable covered or sealable port for injection of saline into the valve assembly would allow the parts to be rinsed as needed. Additionally, the rotating inner assembly would have a lockable access handle and rotation method to insure proper positioning with respect to the assembly ports and to prevent accidental interruption of ventilation. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a respiratory valve apparatus which can switch between an attached external respirator support system and an attached resuscitation bag, and can accommodate insertion of a suction catheter through the apparatus when placed in either switched position. It is a related object of the present invention to provide a respiratory valve apparatus having a housing with a suction catheter entry port, a endotracheal tube connection port, a respirator connection port, and a resuscitation bag connection port. It is still another object of the present invention to provide an inner rotational assembly insertably contained within the apparatus housing which connects the respirator port with a channel between the entry port and endotracheal tube port in a first switched position, and which connects the resuscitation bag port with the channel in the second switched position. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a sealable orifice in the catheter entry port which seals upon withdrawal of the catheter. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a lockable rotation handle which has positive indexing of its switching positions and which prevents improper rotation of the inner rotatable fixture. It is still another object of the present invention to provide a hingably attached cover for the resuscitation bag port for sealably covering the port when a bag is not attached. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a hingably covered or sealable saline port in the housing assembly for injecting saline to clean the valve assembly parts. It is still another object of the present invention to provide an elongated bag which can be sealed around any of a variety of suction catheters, the bag sealably covering and protecting the catheter, the bag tapably sealed at its lower end around a guiding fixture which fits onto the catheter entry port, and the bag tapably sealed at its upper end around an upper portion of the catheter. Other methods of adhering the bag around the cather and fixture are also intended to be used. Other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly. FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a smaller version of the respiratory valve assembly as similar to FIG. 1, with the center rotational assembly scaled down in relation to the various ports. FIG. 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly. FIG. 2A shows an exploded perspective view of a smaller version of the respiratory valve assembly as similar to FIG. 2, with the center rotational assembly scaled down in relation to the various ports. FIG. 3 shows a front exploded view of the respiratory valve assembly. FIG. 4 shows a top view of the respiratory valve assembly. FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly with an exploded view of the catheter entry port guide fixture and protective bag which is sealably taped around the catheter. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly of FIG. 5 with the guide fixture and protective bag attached. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly of FIG. 6 with the suction catheter inserted through the valve assembly and the protective bag foldably compressed. FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the respiratory valve assembly which has an inner rotational cylinder. FIG. 9 shows a front view of the respiratory valve assembly of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 shows a top view of the respiratory valve assembly of FIG 8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Although the invention has been described in terms of a specific embodiment, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in this art that various modifications, rearrangements and substitutions can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims appended hereto. Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly 10 is shown. The assembly has a housing 12 and an inner rotational valve assembly disk 14. This disk 14 is cylindrical in shape. The housing 12 includes an upper access port which is a suction catheter entry port 16 located on the top and a endotracheal tube connection port 18 located on the bottom. The entry port 16 has a flexible orifice 24 covering the top and additionally includes a saline injection port 20 which can be covered by a hingably attached plug 22. Port 20 might alternatively use a sealable orifice 21 as shown in FIG. 1A, or a saline injection port line shown as 63 in FIG. 5. An endotracheal tube 26 can be removably attached to the endotracheal connection port 18. A resuscitation bag attachment port 28 extends out one side, oriented generally 90 degrees from the entry port 16 and endotracheal tube connection port 18. This port 28 can be sealably covered by a hingably attached cover 30. On the opposite side of the bag attachment port 28 is a respirator attachment port 32 for attaching an external respirator device. Referring now to FIG. 2, an exploded perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly 10 is shown. In this view, the inner rotation valve assembly disk 14 is shown to be cylindrical or disk-like in shape with inlets 34 and 36 connected by channels which are more clearly shown in FIG. 3. The assembly disk 14 fits into a cavity or chamber 38 which is formed in the center of the housing 12. To facilitate secure insertion of the assembly disk 14, a circumferential groove 40 is formed around the surface of the chamber 38. A corresponding circumferential ridge 42 is formed around the assembly disk 14. Alternatively, a second circumferential ridge 43 and a corresponding groove 41, both shown in fathom, might be formed around the assembly disk 14 and chamber 38. When the assembly disk 14 is inserted into the chamber 38, this groove 40 mates with the ridge 42 so that the assembly disk 14 securely snaps into place and seals from loss of gas pressure. If provided, the second ridge 43 additionally snaps and seals into groove 41. The rotational movement is then guided by this groove and ridge mating. The housing 12 additionally has a semi-circular lip 44 which protrudes from the front of the housing. This lip 44 has a first indexing slot 46 and a second indexing slot 48, with the lip 44 ramping down to the face of the housing thereafter via ramps 47 and 49 on either side. On the front of the assembly disk 14 is a handle 50 which is flexible enough to bend up and over the ramps 47 and 49 to fall into the indexing slots 46 and 48. When snapped into place, the assembly disk 14 can be rotated via the handle 50 to one of two switching positions which align the ports and disk channels as needed The lip 44 allows the disk 14 to be rotated in one direction with the handle moving around the bottom arc of the circular front of the housing 12. This exploded view also more clearly shows the endotracheal tube 26 which detachable fits onto the connection port 18 and guides a suction catheter into the patient after it has been inserted into and through the respiratory valve assembly 10. The external respirator connection 52 is also shown which attaches to the respirator connection port 32. Referring now to FIG. 1A, a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the respiratory valve assembly 10 of FIG. 1 is shown. Referring also to FIG. 2A, an exploded view of this alternative embodiment is shown as similar to FIG. 2. This embodiment differs only in that the size of the central part of the housing 12 is smaller than in FIGS. 1 and 2. Accordingly, the assembly disk 14 and the chamber 38 will be correspondingly smaller. This smaller embodiment would be extremely useful when working with infants and children. The inventors intend that all such size variations with respect to the respiratory valve assembly parts are encompassed within the scope of this invention. Referring now to FIG. 3, a front view of the respiratory valve assembly 10 is shown. This view shows, via phantom lines, the inner channel 54 which runs inside the inner rotational assembly disk 14. This T-shaped channel 54 provides a conduit between the entry port 16 and endotracheal tube connection port 18 whereby a suction catheter can be inserted through the valve assembly 10. The T-shaped channel 54 opens towards the port 28 or 32 in which the handle 50 is pointing. In the switching position shown, the handle 50 is locked into index 46 in lip 44. A resuscitation bag, not shown, can be attached to the resuscitation bag port 28. With the endotracheal tube 26 attached to the connection port 18, the respiratory valve assembly 10 could be positioned over a patient's mouth with the endotracheal tube extending into the patient. A catheter could be inserted through the T-shaped inner channel 54, and the resuscitation bag could be used to manually provide volumetric units of air into the patient's lungs. By skillfully combining the manual inflation actions with the suction catheter procedure, optimum clearing of the lungs can be accomplished. With the respirator connection 52 attached to the respirator attachment port 32, the catheter can be withdrawn and the disk assembly 14 can be rotatably switched to the opposite setting whereby the handle 50 is pointing towards the attachment port 32. The handle 50 would then be locked into index position 48 in lip 44. Accordingly, the respirator connection 52 will now be breathably connected to the patient without loss of PEEP in the patient's lungs. The suction catheter can then be reinserted and withdrawn as needed through the assembly 10. Referring now to FIG. 4, a top view of the respiratory valve assembly 10 is shown. The flexible orifice 24 is shown covering the catheter entry port 16. The inner assembly disk 14 is shown in fathom. This view also shows a top-down angle of the circumferential ridge 42 which extends around the assembly disk 14 and snaps into the corresponding groove 40 in the housing 12. The lip 44 forms a semi-circular barrier around the upper front portion of the housing 12. The end of the handle 50 is shown protruding out from the side of the housing 12. This protruding end provides a leverage point for prying the flexible handle out from the indexing slot 46 or 48. The handle 50 is then allowed to slide down the ramps, not shown in this view, and thereby allow the assembly disk 14 to be rotated. Referring now to FIG. 5, a perspective view of the respiratory valve assembly 10 is shown with an exploded view of the additional bag-like attachment 60 and an attachment fixture 62. The attachment fixture 62 is tubular in shape and removably attaches, via snug frictional contact or otherwise, with the catheter entry port 16. While the preferred embodiment would likely be constructed of opaque plastic, a transparent version of the attachment fixture 62 shows an inner conical guide 64 which steers an inserted catheter down through the center portion of the orifice 24. This eases catheter insertion through the orifice 24 because the center part of the orifice is more flexible and less resistant than the edges. The bag-like attachment 60 is threaded over the suction catheter 66 and the bottom end 67 of the bag is secured around the fixture 62 with a strip of seal forming adhesive tape 68, or other such materials. The upper end 61 of the bag 60 is secured around the upper attachment fixture 70 by another strip of seal forming adhesive tape 72. Also shown is a saline adaptor port 63 for flushing out the system which extends outwards for convenient access and has a hingably attached cover 65. In lieu of, or in addition to, the hingably attached cover 65, the port 63 might include a bendable, or hingable flap 75 within the extension tube which would allow for injection of saline in one direction, and which would spring back into position to prevent further escape of gas and/or fluids when the saline injection device is withdrawn. Referring now to FIG. 6, a perspective view of the assembled device 74 is shown. The guide fixture 62 fits over the entry port 16 so as not to block the saline injection port 20. The adhesive tape strip 68 wraps around and secures the bottom bag end 67 to the fixture 62. The conical guide section 64 is then placed over the center of the orifice 24. The upper end 61 of the bag 60 is sealably constricted around the upper attachment fixture 70 via the adhesive tape strip 72. This guide fixture 62 shows an alternative saline port 69 which is located flush on the side of the fixture 62 and which uses a sealable orifice 71. Any saline port configuration can be used as appropriate. Referring now to FIG. 7, a perspective view of the assembled device 74 is shown in operation. As shown by the arrow 76; the suction catheter 66 is advanced downward through the respiratory valve assembly 10. As the catheter 66 is advanced, the bag 60 folds and crumples depending upon how far the catheter is advanced. Upon withdrawal of the catheter 66, the bag 60 unfolds, and yet remains sealably attached around the catheter 66 to prevent contact or contamination from outside sources. Because this bag 60 is sealably taped around the catheter 66 and the guide fixture 62, it can be interchangeably used with any of a variety of suction catheter products. FIGS. 8 through 10 show an alternative embodiment of the respiratory valve assembly 80 which uses an inner tubular cylinder 82 which fits inside the inner chamber of the valve housing 84. This cylinder 82 provides a rotational valve assembly which spins around its vertical axis to provide alternate access between the resuscitation bag connection port 77 with a hingably attached cover 79, and the respirator attachment port 78. The cylinder 82 would be inserted through the top of the housing 84 and would snap into place to provide free-spinning action. The upper access port 92 thereby serves as a cylinder insertion port with the suction catheter being inserted through the central portion of the cylinder, through to the exit port 94 and attached endotracheal tube 96. The top portion 98 of the cylinder 82 extends upwards to provide a gripping surface for spinning the cylinder. A sealable orifice 100 extends across the top of the cylinder 82. A saline injection port 102 is provided in the cylinder top portion 98 and further includes a hingably attached plug 104. As with the previous embodiment, this port could also include a sealable orifice thereby eliminating the need for the hingably attached plug. FIG. 9 shows the mounted cylinder 82, in fathom, through the housing 84. In this embodiment, a first cylindrical ridge 86 and a second cylindrical ridge 88 extend around the upper and lower portions of the upright cylinder. These ridges interface with a corresponding first groove 87 and second groove 89. When the cylinder 82 is inserted into the housing 84 with sufficient pressure, these ridges and grooves snappably interface to securely, yet spinably, retain the cylinder in the housing. While shown pronounced in these drawings, such ridges and grooves could also be relatively minimal in size to allow easier insertion of the cylinder into the housing, while still providing secure retainment. Also, the assembly 80 might function with only a single ridge/groove combination, or alternatively a flexible or springing catch, not shown, as known in the art. This catch would extend into the corresponding groove and provide guidance and retainment of the spinning cylinder. The cylinder 82 can thereby be rotated, or switched between two switching positions using a method similar to the previous embodiment. Referring also to FIG. 10, the cylinder insertion port 92 includes a semi-circular lip 106 with indexing positions 110 and 112, and ramped sections 114 and 116. A flexible handle 108 extends out from the cylinder and interfaces with these indexing positions as in the previous embodiment to lock the cylinder into its first and second switched positions. Referring again to FIG. 9, the cylinder 82 is shown to have a port access hole 90 in its side. The hole aligns with the respirator attachment port 78 in the first switching position, and aligns with the resuscitation bag connection port 77 in the second switching position. In operation, the suction catheter is thereby inserted through the orifice 100, through the cylinder 82 and into the endotracheal tube 96. The cylinder can be switched and locked into a first indexed position 112 to allow ventilation with an external respirator. Alternatively, the cylinder can be rotated and locked into a second indexed position 108 to allow ventilation with an attached resuscitation bag. While not shown in FIGS. 8-10, the bag-like attachment 60 detailed in FIGS. 5-7 can also be used with this embodiment. The guide fixture 62 would fit over the exposed upper portion 98 of the mounted cylinder 82, but without blocking the saline port 102. As before, the bag would then be attached, via adhesive tape or otherwise, to the guide fixture 62 and to an upper attachment fixture 70 of the suction catheter 66. With this second embodiment, the entire guide fixture 62 and attached bag 60 would thereby rotate with the spinning cylinder between switching positions. With each of the aforementioned embodiments the user will typically remove the suction catheter before switching from one ventilation position to another. The embodiment using the rotating cylinder has the added advantage over the previous embodiment in that the suction catheter does not have to be removed in order to switch the valve from one ventilation position to another. The suction catheter might optionally be left extended through the valve assembly during switching, or removed, depending upon the preference and needs of the operator. It is to be understood that while certain forms of the invention are illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific forms or arrangements of parts herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown in the drawings and descriptions.
A respiratory valve apparatus with a housing having a upper entry port and an opposite endotracheal tube connection port, along with a resuscitation bag connection port and an opposite respirator connection port. A rotational valve assembly with an inner channel fits within a chamber formed in the housing. The rotational assembly switches and indexably locks between two positions whereby the channel aligns the entry, endotracheal, and respirator ports in one position, and aligns the entry, endotracheal, and resuscitation ports in the second position. A guide fixture can be attached to the entry port to help steer the catheter through the apparatus. An elongated protective bag can be sealably attached around the catheter to prevent external contact with the catheter surfaces when it is withdrawn.
0
This application is a division of application Ser. No. 11/732,655 filed Apr. 4, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,736,776 issued Jun. 15, 2010 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/788,714 filed Apr. 4, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to the field of treatment of wastewater and process water, more specifically, to the reduction in the level of ammonia and organic ammonia compounds in wastewater and process water, regardless of source. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Human and animal waste is the primary source of nitrogen in most wastewater discharges. In addition, certain process waters, including but not limited to industrial process waters, contain significant amounts of nitrogen compounds. Wastewater containing nitrogen compounds such as ammonia, organic nitrogen, nitrates, and nitrites that contaminate ground and surface water resources are a major concern in a world facing potable water shortages. Traditional wastewater systems do little or nothing to reduce the level of nitrogen in the released wastewater. No low-cost technology is available to directly remove ammonia from wastewater. Release of these nitrogen compounds to environmental surface water, or especially ground water, is to be avoided. In addition, the removal of nitrogen compounds from certain processes using this method may be advantageous. Existing systems of wastewater treatment are limited to treating wastewater with bacterial digestion, oxidation, settling, and disinfection (usually using chlorination). More advanced methods, such as ozone and ultraviolet radiation, also are used to treat water and wastewater. There are no existing systems in which wastewater containing ammonia is treated to directly remove ammonia from the water. Existing systems discuss sterilization, oxidation, and biological systems but not electro-chemical technologies. It is known to use of ozone alone to sterilize water and/or treat the organic content water. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,007,120 issued to Bowen, and entitled “Oxidation and ozonation chamber”, describes the use of ozone to treat and disinfect water. U.S. Pat. No. 4,053,399 issued to Donnelly, et al. and entitled “Method and system for waste treatment”, describes the use of ozone to oxidize and disinfect wastewater. U.S. Pat. No. 4,176,061 issued to Stopka, and entitled “Apparatus and method for treatment of fluid with ozone”, describes the use of ozone in the form of micro-bubbles to oxidize and to disinfect wastewater. U.S. Pat. No. 4,255,257 issued to Greiner, et al. and entitled “Process for the treatment of water”, describes the use of pressurized ozone to treat water. U.S. Pat. No. 4,545,716 issued to Boeve, and entitled “Method of producing ultrapure, pyrogen-free water”, describes the use of highly-concentrated, substantially-pure ozone to treat deionized water. U.S. Pat. No. 4,572,821 issued to Brodard, et al. and entitled “Apparatus for dissolving ozone in a fluid”, describes the use of pressurized ozone to treat water. U.S. Pat. No. 5,130,032 issued to Sartori, and entitled “Method for treating a liquid medium”, describes the use of ultrasound to disperse ozone in water and the use of ultrasound to aid in the cleanup of ozonated water. U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,993 issued to Burris, and entitled “Batch liquid purifier”, describes the use of ozone in water with recirculation of the water through the ozone injection region to purify water. U.S. Pat. No. 5,868,945 issued to Morrow, et al. and entitled “Process of treating produced water with ozone”, describes the use of ozone to treat water, containing hydrocarbons, at elevated temperatures. U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,387 issued to Cooper, et al. and entitled “Cold water ozone disinfection”, describes the use of ozone dissolved in water to disinfect mechanical assemblies. U.S. Pat. No. 6,115,862 issued to Cooper, et al. and entitled “Cold water ozone disinfection”, describes the use of ozone dissolved in water to disinfect mechanical assemblies. The disclosures of each of these references are herein incorporated by reference to the extent that they are not inconsistent with this application. There also are disclosures relating to the use of oxidation, singly, to treat wastewater or water. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,992,295 issued to Box Jr., et al. and entitled “Polluted water purification”, describes a process of catalyzed oxidation. U.S. Pat. No. 4,141,829 issued to Thiel, et al. and entitled “Process for wet oxidation of organic substances”, describes a process of oxidation occurring at elevated temperatures. U.S. Pat. No. 4,604,215 issued to McCorquodale, and entitled “Wet oxidation”, describes a process of oxidation occurring at elevated temperatures. U.S. Pat. No. 4,699,720 issued to Harada, et al. and entitled “Process for treating waste water by wet oxidations”, describes a process of oxidation using catalysts. U.S. Pat. No. 4,793,919 issued to McCorquodale, and entitled “Wet oxidation system”, describes a process of oxidation occurring with mixing or stirring of the fluid. U.S. Pat. No. 5,053,142 issued to Sorensen, et al. and entitled “Method for treating polluted material”, describes a process of oxidation occurring in a fluid. U.S. Pat. No. 5,057,220 issued to Harada, et al. and entitled “Process for treating waste water”, describes a process of oxidation using catalysts. U.S. Pat. No. 5,145,587 issued to Ishii, et al. and entitled “Method for treatment of waste water”, describes a process of oxidation at elevated temperatures. U.S. Pat. No. 5,158,689 issued to Ishii, et al. and entitled “Method for purification of waste water”, describes a process of oxidation at elevated temperatures. Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,801 issued to Sorensen, et al. and entitled “Method for treating polluted material”, describes a process of oxidation occurring in a fluid. U.S. Pat. No. 5,614,087 issued to Le, and entitled “Wet oxidation system”, describes a process of oxidation occurring in a stirred or mixed fluid. U.S. Pat. No. 5,807,484 issued to Couture, et al. and entitled “Waste water treatment”, describes a process of oxidation using trickle filters. U.S. Pat. No. 5,888,389 issued to Griffith, et al. and entitled “Apparatus for oxidizing undigested wastewater sludges”, describes a process of supercritical oxidation occurring in a fluid at elevated temperatures and pressures. No systems exist in the field of electrolytic removal of ammonia by direct electrolysis or by high pH chemical conversion at an electrolytic electrode. Needs exist for new systems of electrolytic removal of ammonia by direct electrolysis or by high pH chemical conversion at an electrolytic electrode. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A method is disclosed that directly removes ammonia (ammonium) from clarified wastewater. Further a system is disclosed that applies this method to treat and to remove specified levels of ammonia from wastewater and other process waters. Human and animal waste can be treated by physical, chemical, or biological means such as: aerobic digestion, anaerobic digestion, advanced oxidation, chemical action, filtration, and solids separation. While major reductions in solids can be expected using these conventional processes, there is little reduction in nitrogen containing compounds, particularly ammonia. A primary result of this invention is to directly remove ammonia in its aqueous form from wastewater or other process waters. Ammonia in water is typically in the form of ammonium ion —NH 4 . This is a form that is readily used by plants and is one major cause of algae and plant growth in the environment where wastewater is discharged. This invention provides a simple and direct method to remove aqueous ammonia by electro-chemistry and electrolysis. Metallic electrodes are placed into the wastewater stream. A direct current voltage is applied to the plate electrodes; and current flows from the anode to the cathode. Electrolysis of the water occurs, generating oxygen at the anode and hydrogen at the cathode. This electrolysis has another important effect. The pH at the cathode is increased. We find that the pH at or near the cathode can exceed 9. At this pH aqueous ammonia is converted to ammonia gas. The addition of air at or below the cathode sparges the ammonia from the water and removes it from the system. The ionic polarity of the ammonium has an important secondary effect. Ammonium is directly attracted to the anode, and, in some conditions, electrolysis of the ammonium into ammonia occurs. Again, the addition of air at the anode sparges the ammonia, removing it from the system. Approximately up to 98%, or more, of ammonia is removed from the overall wastewater stream using a system based on this inventive method. The configuration described has a number of advantages. The ammonia is removed from the system with the application of electrical energy. There are no waste products. The ammonia that is removed from the wastewater can be recovered using standard refrigeration techniques and can result in a valuable byproduct—fertilizer. Unlike biological solutions, our invention does not rely on living organisms for the success of the process. The process described herein is unlikely to be upset or interrupted by the presence of materials that are toxic to the organisms necessary for biological systems to operate. It is therefore an object of the invention to describe a method and to provide a system and an apparatus for the treatment and/or removal of ammonia-containing compounds from wastewater or process waters that greatly reduces the level of ammonia reaching the environment. These and further and other objects and features of the invention are apparent in the disclosure, which includes the above and ongoing written specification, with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a diagram of the method of the invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic of one embodiment of the invention wherein the electrodes have a defined physical separation. FIG. 3 is a schematic a second embodiment of the invention wherein closely spaced electrodes are mechanically separated by a thin porous membrane. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Two embodiments of a method of ammonia removal are disclosed herein. The embodiments differ in their potential electrical efficiency, but otherwise operate similarly. Those skilled in the art may recognize that other embodiments are possible but we decline to list all possible combinations herein. The ammonia removal from the waste or process stream can reach approximately 90% to 98%, or higher, using the inventive system described below. One embodiment of the system consists of one or more pairs of electrode plates arranged in a substantially planar fashion. The effectiveness of this or other embodiments is not impacted by the use of other geometries such as cylindrical geometries. The electrodes must be fabricated from corrosion resistant materials such as, but not limited to, titanium, platinum, or gold. Coatings may be placed on the titanium. These coatings may retard corrosion of the substrate and may aid in the efficiency of the electrolysis process. These coatings may consist of, but are not limited to, thin layers of such oxides as rhenium oxide, zirconium oxide, and rhodium oxide. The embodiment uses, but is not limited to, electrodes whose width is 30 centimeters (cm) and whose length is 100 cm. This results in an electrode area of ˜3000 square centimeters (cm 2 ). Electrode dimensions can range from a few cm to hundreds of cm and are limited only by the physical constraints of the application and the engineering required to hold the electrode spacing to adequate tolerances. The electrodes are held in position using insulating spacers located at arbitrary points, but ideally near the edges of the plates where the flow of wastewater is not impeded. The sole purpose of the insulating spacers is to provide for the positive location of the electrodes, thus preventing the accidental shorting of the electrodes. A voltage, typically, but not limited to, 4.5 V, is placed between the electrodes. The applied voltage can span the range of between 3.0 V and 50 V depending in the spacing of the electrodes and the conductivity (salinity) of the water. It is advantageous to keep the current density on the electrodes below 0.15 amperes (A) per cm 2 in order to maximize the electrode lifetime. In any case the successful operation of this, embodiment is not significantly impacted by the absolute magnitude of the current on the electrodes. In operation, electrical current flows uniformly through the water between the plates. This current heats the water and is a parasitic loss and has no beneficial action. It is therefore advantageous to operate with the electrode spacing as small as is mechanically possible. The spacing is typically limited by the flatness of the electrodes, particle content of the wastewater, and the operational safety margin desired for the system. The first embodiment uses, but is not limited to, a spacing of 3 millimeters (3 mm). Smaller electrode spacings permit lower operational voltages for the system. Voltage regulation provides no added performance to the system. During electrolytic cell operation, the pH of the water near the cathode increases to level >9. At or above a pH of 9, aqueous ammonium (NH 4 ) is converted to gaseous ammonia (NH 3 ). Wastewater flows through the space between the plates. In this embodiment the water flows from the bottom of the electrodes to the top. Other water flow patterns are possible but upward flow assists in the removal of gaseous ammonia from the volume between the plates. Fine bubbles of air are injected into the volume of water at the bottom of the electrode plates. The air flows upwards along and between the electrodes. This air carries with it gases generated at the electrodes including the ammonia released by the electro-chemical and electrolytic process. This gas can be released directly to the air if regulations permit or the ammonia in the gas stream can be captured using standard condensation techniques. Under normal operation this embodiment at a voltage of 4.5 V will conduct a total current of ˜100 A per electrode pair. An embodiment consisting of multiple electrode pairs will draw a total current in multiples of the base 100 A per electrode pair. Someone skilled in the art will recognize that multiple electrodes can be electrically connected either in series or in parallel depending on the necessities of a particular installation. At an operational voltage of 4.5 V the embodiment as described will consume a peak electrical power of 450 watts (W) per electrode pair. A second embodiment of the system consists of one or more pairs of porous electrodes arranged in a substantially planar fashion. The effectiveness of this or other embodiments is not impacted by the use of other geometries such as cylindrical geometries. The porosity of the electrodes is needed in order to maintain a flow of wastewater through the cell. The electrodes are fabricated from corrosion resistant materials such as but not limited to titanium. Other coatings may be placed on the titanium. These coatings may consist of, but are not limited to, thin layers of such oxides as rhenium oxide, zirconium oxide, and rhodium oxide. The embodiment uses, but is not limited to, electrodes whose width is 30 cm and whose length is 100 cm. This results in an electrode area of ˜3000 cm 2 . Electrode dimensions can range from a few cm to hundreds of cm and are limited only by the physical constraints of the application and the engineering required to hold the electrode spacing to adequate tolerances. The electrodes are positioned closely together using an insulating membrane with a thickness of 1 mm. The membrane materials are such as but not limited to Nafion 450 to separate the anode from the cathode. The anode is typically on the effluent side and is used to protect the membrane from fouling with organics. The sole purpose of the thin membrane is to provide for the smallest possible spacing of the electrodes, thus minimizing the operational voltage and, hence, power. A voltage, typically, but not limited to, 1.5 V, is placed between the electrodes. The applied voltage can span the range of between 1.0 V and 50 V depending in the thickness of the membrane and the conductivity (salinity) of the water. In operation current flows through the water saturated membrane between the plates. This current heats the water and is a parasitic loss and has no beneficial action. It is therefore advantageous to operate with thinnest membrane possible. The spacing is typically limited by the uniformity of the membrane and the operational safety margin desired for the system. The second embodiment uses, but is not limited to, a membrane thickness of 1 mm. During electrolytic cell operation, the pH of the water near the cathode increases to level>pH 9. At or above a pH of 9, aqueous ammonium (NH 4 ) is converted to gaseous ammonia (NH 3 ). Wastewater flows through the electrodes and the membrane. In this embodiment the water flows from the bottom of the electrodes to the top. But the flow is arranged to move through the anode, the membrane, and out the cathode. Other water flow patterns are possible but flow through the anode refreshes the water in the membrane and the upward flow assists in the removal of gaseous ammonia from the volume between the plates. Fine bubbles of air are injected into the volume of water at the bottom of the cathode. The air flows upwards along and between the cathodes. This air carries with it gases generated at the electrodes including the ammonia released by the electro-chemical and electrolytic process. This gas can be released directly to the air if regulations permit or the ammonia in the gas stream can be captured using standard condensation techniques. Under normal operation at a voltage of 1.5 V the second embodiment will conduct a total current of ˜100 A per electrode pair. An embodiment consisting of multiple electrode pairs will draw a total current in multiples of 100-A per electrode pair. Someone skilled in the art will quickly recognize that the electrodes can be electrically connected either in series or in parallel depending on the necessities of a particular installation. At an operational voltage of 1.5 V the embodiment as described will consume a peak electrical power of 150 W per electrode pair. Note the power consumption of the second embodiment is 33% of that used by the first embodiment. All embodiments of this invention suffer from the accumulation of mineral deposits on the cathode. The most common of these deposits is calcium carbonate. Calcium and other metal anions move to the cathode where the high pH of the water takes the carbonates from solution. If left unchecked this would eventually completely cover the electrode and prevent the successful operation of the system. Three methods for preventing the build up of carbonates are possible. First, reversing the polarity of the plates on a regular basis removes the built up deposits. If the cathode becomes the anode the acidic environment will dissolve the carbonate buildup. Second, the application of a moderate level of ultrasonic acoustic energy prevents the build up of mineral deposits. Third, frequent abrasion of the surface with a mechanical scrubber prevents the excessive buildup of minerals. In the case of the membrane used in embodiment two, an occasional detergent wash may be necessary to remove greases and oils that may accumulate in the membrane. The oxygen generated from the anode side assists membrane cleanliness. The preferred method to keep the surface clean is an engineering decision based on the many tradeoffs that must be made for any particular implementation. In principle, the formation of mineral deposits can be totally eliminated by having a waste stream consisting of softened water. For large volumes of water this is impractical. Reference is made to FIGS. 1-3 . FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of the method of the invention. The cell electrodes, electrical systems, wastewater flow, and air/ammonia components found in the invention are described. The ammoniated waste water inputs at the bottom of the electrodes and exits at the top. Air containing ammonia is vented at the top of the system. FIG. 2 provides a detailed schematic view of the components and arrangement of the first embodiment. A schematic of a second embodiment using porous membranes is seen in FIG. 3 . FIG. 1 shows the block diagram of the method for ammonia removal. Wastewater 1 flows into the lower portion of the treatment tank 2 . An assembly of planar electrodes 3 is suspended in the treatment tank 2 . Voltage is applied to the electrode with a direct current power supply 4 . Air 5 is supplied with a low pressure bubbling system 6 (e.g. venturi air injection). Ammonia gas 7 is released below the electrode assembly 3 . The injected air 5 sparges the released ammonia 7 and the resulting gas mixture 8 is exhausted from the treatment tank 2 . The treated wastewater 9 leaves the treatment tank 2 near the top of the tank. Ammonia recovering 10 uses standard refrigeration techniques and recovers ammonia from the resulting gas mixture 8 for use as fertilizer. A mechanical scrubber 51 abrades the surface of one or more electrodes 3 to prevent mineral build up. FIG. 2 shows a detailed schematic of the first embodiment. Wastewater 11 flows into a canister filter 12 (or equivalent) to ensure that the water has no significant particle content. The filtered wastewater 13 flows in the treatment unit 14 . The treatment unit 14 contains an electrical series configuration of electrolysis electrodes 16 . The treatment unit 14 consists of a sandwich of hollow insulating plastic plates 15 and electrolysis electrodes 16 . The insulating plates can be composed of any suitable plastic such as but not limited to acrylic, polycarbonate, Teflon, or PVC. The insulating plastic plates 15 serve to precisely space the electrodes 16 and electrically isolate them. Water is fed into a series of distribution holes 17 located at the bottom of each cell (between the electrodes 16 ). The number, size, and length of the holes are determined by the need to minimize the leakage electrical current flowing around the plates. In the water distribution manifold sparging air 18 is injected. This sparging air 18 rises between the electrodes. A direct current power supply 19 applies voltage to the electrodes 16 at the first electrode plate 20 and the last electrode plate 21 . The applied voltage per cell is the total applied voltage divided by the number of electrolysis cells 15 in the treatment unit 14 . Ammonia gas 22 is formed on the electrodes 16 . The sparging air 18 to the exhaust 24 carries gaseous ammonia 22 away. The resultant gas mixture flows from the treatment unit 14 where it is exhausted or potentially recovered. An ultrasonic transducer 23 applies sonic energy to the electrolysis cells 15 to prevent the build up of carbonate on the electrodes 16 . The treated wastewater 25 exits the treatment unit 14 . FIG. 3 shows a close up detailed schematic of the second embodiment. The schematic for FIG. 3 is similar to that of FIG. 2 except that the space between electrodes of opposite polarity is filled with a porous membrane and the spacing is reduced. Wastewater 30 flows into a canister filter 31 (or equivalent) to ensure that the water has no significant particle content. The filtered wastewater 32 flows in the treatment unit 33 . The treatment unit 33 contains an electrical series configuration of electrolysis electrodes 34 consisting of a sandwich of hollow insulating plastic positioning plates 35 and hollow porous electrolysis electrodes 34 . The insulating plates can be composed of any suitable plastic such as but not limited to acrylic, polycarbonate, Teflon, or PVC. The insulating plastic plates 35 serve to precisely position the electrodes 34 together, to clamp the electrodes onto the 1-mm thick membrane 36 , and electrically isolate the electrodes 34 . Water is fed through holes 42 in the bottom plastic positioning plates 35 into one set of electrodes and is exhausted at the top of adjacent porous electrodes of opposite polarity. Sparging air 37 is injected into the hollow electrodes 34 as needed. A direct current power supply 38 applies voltage to the electrodes 34 at the first electrode plate 39 and the last electrode plate 40 . The applied voltage per electrode pair (a cell) is the total applied voltage divided by the total number of electrolysis cells. Ammonia gas 41 is formed on the surface of the electrodes 34 . Gaseous ammonia 41 migrates into the hollow electrodes and is carried away by the sparging air 37 and water. The treated wastewater 43 , having passed through the electrolysis system, exits the treatment unit 33 . While the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, modifications and variations of the invention may be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention.
A method and system are described to treat ammonia-containing wastewater or process waters. Sewage containing human or animal waste and certain process liquids, typically water, contains high levels of nitrogen in the form of ammonia. An electro-chemical method to extract the ammonia from the wastewater is also described. The system described is one implementation of this method. One or more electrolysis cells convert ammonium to ammonia where the generated ammonia gas can readily be extracted for disposal or reuse. Such a system can involve electrolysis cells of numerous types as described herein.
2
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates to a fastening device comprising a support part and adhesive fastening elements attached to and protruding from the support part. A shaft part protrudes beyond the support part and is connected to at least one elastically resilient hooking part. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Fastening devices, which fix objects or components to third components by forming adhesive connections, are prior art in a wide variety of arrangements. The documents DE 10 2008 007 913 A1 or DE 10 2010 027 394 A1, for example, disclose fastening devices, which may be used to fix third components at predefinable points on components, whether they are parts of motor vehicles, trains, ships or of aircraft. In the case of motor vehicles, such third components may be, for example, covers on body parts, panels or other flat coverings. In the case of buildings, such fastening devices may also serve to fix flat coverings, such as panels or textile sheets at predefinable points, for example, to conceal unsightly locations or to also form a thermal insulation and/or sound insulation. [0003] Because the connection between the relevant component and the third component to be fixed thereto is achieved not by screw fastening, riveting or nailing, but by way of an adhesive connection by adhesively engaging adhesive fastening elements that are connected to a component to corresponding adhesive fastening elements on the respective third component, the result is, for one, a substantial reduction of the assembly effort and, for another, the particular advantage that position tolerances between the component and the third component may be compensated for during manufacture of the adhesive connection. To enable a simple and economical assembly when using such fastening devices, the support part provided with adhesive fastening elements in a fastening device of the aforementioned kind disclosed in DE 10 2010 010 893 A1 is provided with a protruding shaft part, which includes elastically resilient hooking parts with which the support part may be clipped into a fastening hole on the associated component. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0004] An object of the invention is to provide an improved fastening device of this type, which is distinguished, in particular, by universal applications. [0005] According to the invention, this object is basically achieved by a fastening device including respective hooking parts in an initial position that extend outwardly away from the shaft part and/or from a holding part for the respective hooking part while forming an intermediate space. The intermediate space is reduced as soon as the respective hooking part moves toward the shaft part and/or holding part under the influence of an external application of force. Because the hook elements, in contrast to the cited known solution, are thus formed not as nubs with no intermediate space deflecting into the shaft, but rather as a type of wings, which extend outwardly from the shaft or holding part in the unloaded initial position while forming an intermediate space, the attachment to the assigned component is not limited to the presence of a correspondingly positioned matching fastening hole. Instead, it opens the possibility of designing hook positions more freely in terms of dimensioning as well as shape, so that the hooks may be engaged not only point by point, but also in positions variable in the desired direction. The hooks may be engaged, for example, by inserting them in the opening of a profile engageable from behind extending in one direction, so that the invention offers particularly universal applications. [0006] The arrangement may be such that at least one part of the hooking parts extends away on the outer circumferential side starting directly from the shaft part. Alternatively, the holding part situated on the shaft part can support at least one hooking part. [0007] In exemplary embodiments, in which a holding part for respective hooking parts is situated on the shaft part, preferably on the free end thereof, the holding part may have a block-shaped or rectangular-shaped design and may extend with its longitudinal axis or transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft part. The vertical axis of the holding part preferably coincides with the longitudinal axis of the shaft part. [0008] The holding part may particularly advantageously include two opposing hooking parts, as viewed diametrically to the longitudinal axis of the shaft part. The hooking parts situated opposite one another on both front sides of the holding part preferably face in opposite directions. [0009] In particularly advantageous exemplary embodiments having hooking parts situated on the front sides of the holding part, the hooking parts are advantageously situated such that the respective intermediate space, which is bound by at least one front side of the holding part as well as by the hooking part assigned to this front side, tapers in the direction of a connection point between the holding part and the hooking part. [0010] To maintain the elastically resilient property of every hooking part, the connection point with the holding part extends preferably across the entire front side of the block-shaped or rectangular-shaped holding part. The connection point has a wall thickness, which preferably corresponds to one to three times the thickness of the hooking part. [0011] In this case, the arrangement may be advantageously such that the respective wing-like hooking part lies within the imaginary continuous side surfaces of the block-shaped or rectangular-shaped holding part, fitting flush with these imaginary side surfaces in each case. Thus, in the case of a connection point located in a corner area of the assigned front side of the holding part, the length of the wing formed by the hooking part corresponds to the width of the front side. [0012] The preferably cylindrical shaft part, the preferably plate-shaped support part and the block-shaped or rectangular-shaped holding part with its wing-like hooking part may be advantageously formed as one piece, preferably from plastic material. The adhesive fastening elements are adhesively connected or melted to the support part. [0013] The subject matter of the invention is also a fastening system, which includes at least one of fastening device according to the invention. [0014] Other objects, advantages and salient features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0015] Referring to the drawings that form a part of this disclosure: [0016] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of a fastening system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in the manner of a schematically simplified functional sketch; [0017] FIG. 2 is an exploded side view drawn in approximately double the size of a practical embodiment, of the support part provided as the fastening device for the fastening system of FIG. 1 , including adhesive fastening elements to be attached thereto, the adhesive elements of which are likewise depicted schematically simplified as mushroom heads; [0018] FIG. 3 is a perspective angular view of the separately depicted adhesive fastening elements of FIG. 2 ; [0019] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the support part of FIG. 2 ; [0020] FIGS. 5 and 6 are views of the two opposing front sides of the support part of FIG. 4 ; [0021] FIGS. 7 and 8 are views of the opposing longitudinal sides of the support part of FIG. 4 ; [0022] FIGS. 9 and 10 are perspective views, as seen on the bottom side and upper side of the support part, respectively; [0023] FIG. 11 shows a partial front view of the panel shown in FIG. 1 to be attached by the fastening device, including a support part located in the mounting position or initial position with highly schematized adhesive elements indicated as hooks; [0024] FIG. 12 is a partial front view of the panel shown in FIG. 1 with the support part rotated into the functional position; and [0025] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective angular view of a modified embodiment of the fastening system according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0026] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment, in which the fastening system according to the invention is used for the purpose of attaching a flat panel 1 to the ceiling 3 in a room 5 of a building, not depicted. The fastening device according to the invention forms adhesive connections. For this purpose, two adhesive fastening elements 7 are attached to the ceiling 3 to form connection areas. Fastening element 7 adhesively engage with support parts 9 of the fastening device according to the invention, when the panel 1 with its straight upper edge 11 is applied to the ceiling 3 in the direction of a movement arrow 12 . In the example shown, only two adhesive fastening elements 7 with assigned support parts 9 for forming the connection areas are shown in the simplified depiction of FIG. 1 . A larger number of connection points having a corresponding plurality of support parts 9 and assigned adhesive fastening elements 7 may be provided. An elongated adhesive fastening element 7 may likewise be provided as indicated in FIG. 1 and extends essentially over the entire length of a component to be attached, such as a panel 1 , to adhesively engage with a corresponding number of support parts 9 . The details of the design of the support parts 9 may be seen in FIGS. 2 through 10 . The manner of attachment of the support parts 9 to the panel 1 is apparent from FIGS. 11 and 12 . [0027] As the last-mentioned figures and FIG. 1 show, a profile channel 13 forms inner contact surfaces 15 and 17 , as is most readily apparent from FIGS. 11 and 12 . The respective support part 9 with hooking parts 19 of the respective support part 9 may be anchored to the contact surfaces 15 , 17 , and is provided for anchoring the support parts 9 along the upper edge 11 of the relevant component, in this case the panel 1 . The design of the support parts 9 with the hooking parts 19 may be seen in the FIGS. 2 through 10 . As is most clearly shown by the FIGS. 2, 4 as well as 9 and 10 , the support parts 9 include a rectangular-shaped flat support plate or member 21 . On the upper side of support plate 21 a slightly protruding circumferential edge 23 is located. This edge forms a surround for an adhesive fastening element 25 corresponding to the aforementioned prior art, attached by adhesive or thermal bonding. Fastening element 25 is depicted in FIG. 2 before the attachment of the support plate 21 and is depicted separately in FIG. 3 . In these figures, the associated adhesive elements are indicated schematically as mushroom heads. In this case, mushroom heads form a hermaphroditic adhesive attachment and may likewise be provided on the assigned adhesive fastening elements 7 of the relevant third component. Other types of adhesive elements may be provided, for example, hooks on the support part 9 , as schematically indicated in the FIGS. 11 and 12 , which may interact with a fleece material on the adhesive fastening elements 7 , or loops on the support parts 9 for interacting with hook elements on the adhesive attachment elements 7 or in reverse arrangement. [0028] The support parts 9 in the present example, formed from transparent plastic material, include a round cylindrical shaft part 27 in the center of the support plate 21 and protruding from the support plate at a right angle to the plate plane. The shaft part 27 forms the support for the hooking parts 19 . The shaft part 27 is designed as a tube-shaped hollow body, as shown in FIGS. 4, 9 and 10 . In the example shown, the hooking parts 19 are not situated directly at the free end of the shaft part 27 . Rather, the hooking parts 19 are on a holding part 29 shaped as a block in the form of a rectangular cuboid. The holding part extends at the free end of the shaft part 27 , with its longitudinal axis and transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft part 27 . As may most clearly be seen from the FIGS. 4 through 10 , the hooking parts 19 are molded onto the holding part 29 at connection points 31 , which are situated diametrically opposite one another on the holding part 29 . The hooking parts 19 in this case are designed as wings of equal shape and size, which wings, as is most readily apparent from FIG. 4 as well as 9 and 10 , protrude flexibly outward in the unloaded state away from the connection points 31 serving as bending points, while forming an intermediate space 30 between the wings and the front side 33 of the holding part 29 . The wings have rectangular shapes corresponding to the shape of the holding part 29 , extend accordingly over the entire area of the front sides 33 of the holding part 29 and have approximately the same wing length as the facing front side 33 . [0029] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate the mounting process or anchoring process in the profile channel 13 of the relevant third component, such as the panel 1 . FIG. 11 shows the support part 9 in an initial position with a rotational position in which the support plate 21 extends projecting laterally beyond the upper edge 11 . In this rotational position, the wing-like hooking parts 19 are splayed in the longitudinal direction of the profile channel 13 , so that they may be inserted together with the shaft part 27 through the profile opening 35 of the profile channel 13 , see FIG. 11 . The hooking parts 19 , when twisted by 90 ° about the longitudinal axis 38 , as indicated by the rotating arrow 36 in FIG. 11 , come into resilient contact with the side walls 37 . Side walls 37 are located in the area of the groove-shaped expansion of the profile channel 13 . In the rotational position shown in [0030] FIG. 12 , not only is the support part 19 with its support plate 21 flush with the outer sides of the panel 1 , but the upper side 28 of the block-like holding part 29 on the shaft part 27 is also in bottom engagement with the contact surfaces 15 and 17 in the expansion of the profile channel 13 . The support part 9 is then form-lockingly secured from lifting out of the profile channel 13 . In this functional position, the respective support part 9 is friction-lockingly secured against displacement along the profile channel 13 by the hooking parts 19 , which resiliently abut the side walls 37 . For attaching to the ceiling 3 , the support parts 9 can be set in the assigned positions on the third component flush or aligned with the adhesive fastening elements 7 , but are secured by the friction lock against undesirable sliding movements during the mounting process. The component, in this case, panel 1 , can then be reliably and effortlessly adhesively engaged with the adhesive fastening elements 7 on the third component. [0031] FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of the fastening system, in which a component in the form of a wall covering 41 is to be attached by an adhesive connection and is provided to form the relevant space 5 as an anechoic chamber. This flat component has a pattern of projecting bodies known for this purpose, indicated only partially on the visible side in FIG. 13 . To attach the wall covering 41 on a side wall 45 of the room, hooking elements 7 are provided on the side walls 45 for the adhesive engagement with the hooking parts 9 , which are located on the rear side of the wall covering 41 . The profile channel 13 , provided for anchoring the hooking parts 9 , extends spaced apart from the upper edge 11 in the horizontal direction at the level of the adhesive fastening parts 7 located on the side wall 45 for forming the adhesive connection when applying the wall covering 41 in the direction of the movement arrow 12 . A larger number of adhesive fastening elements 7 or assigned adhesive fastening elements 9 , which may be distributed over arbitrary surface areas of the wall covering 41 , may be provided on the side wall 45 and/or on the rear side of the wall covering 41 . [0032] While the hooking parts 19 above are formed as identically shaped wings, which are splayed outwardly in the initial position starting from both front sides 33 of the block-shaped holding part 29 , that another number or differently shaped hooking parts could alternatively be provided. [0033] While various embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
A fastening device has a supporting part ( 9 ), adhesive fastening elements ( 25 ) attached to the supporting part and protruding from the supporting part ( 9 ), a shaft part ( 27 ) protruding beyond the supporting part ( 9 ), and at least one elastically resilient hooking part ( 19 ). Each hooking part ( 19 ) extends outward away from the shaft part ( 27 ) or a holding part ( 29 ) for the hooking part ( 19 ) in an initial position, forming an intermediate space ( 30 ), which is reduced as soon as the hooking part ( 19 ) is moved toward the shaft part ( 27 ) or the holding part ( 29 ) under the influence of an external application of force.
4
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to monitoring of infrastructure of transport networks, for example infrastructure of rail networks, such as tunnels or bridges or the rail track itself, and in particular to condition monitoring which uses movement of traffic on the rail network. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Transport network infrastructure, such as rail network infrastructure, will typically comprise some structures that it is desirable to monitor the condition of. For instance it may be desired to monitor the condition of tunnels that form part of the network to detect any faults in the tunnel that could lead to failure. In some rail networks the condition of tunnels may be manually inspected. This may comprise an inspection by suitable personnel, including a visual inspection and/or performance of various tests or measurements to identify any potential problems. For instance, the condition of the walls may be visually inspected, the relative position of known markers measured for any movement and in some instances the wall condition may be tested using suitable probes. Clearly however such inspections require sending an inspection team to the relevant structure and the inspection can take significant time. The area to be inspected, even in a single track rail tunnel of a few hundred meters in length, may be significant and some tunnels may large enough to house multiple tracks and be of the orders of kilometers in length. The inspection may only be possible in times when the relevant section of rail network is not in use, which may limit the time available for inspection and/or result in reduced or cancelled services on the network. For these reasons manual inspection is typically a time consuming and costly undertaking and most infrastructure is therefore inspected only periodically, in some instances with significant periods of time between inspections. In some structures there may also be a number of permanently installed sensors to provide on-going structural health monitoring. For instance various strain sensors, accelerometers etc. and the like may be deployed through a tunnel to detect any motion. Such sensors are typically point sensors and thus providing adequate coverage for a tunnel, which may be kilometers in length, requires many such sensors with consequent expense. For remote monitoring each sensor must have a suitable power supply and be arranged to be able to transmit the acquired data for analysis. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and apparatus for condition monitoring of structures forming part of the infrastructure of a transport network. In one aspect of the invention there is provided a method of condition monitoring of a structure forming part of a transport network, the method comprising: performing distributed acoustic sensing on one or more optical fibres deployed to monitor said structure to provide a measurement signal from each of a plurality of acoustic sensing portions; analysing the measurement signals generated from movement of traffic on the transport network in the vicinity of said structure to identify acoustic signals associated with said structure; and analysing said acoustic signals associated with said structure to provide an indication of any changes in condition of said structure. The method of this aspect of the present invention uses fibre optic distributed acoustic sensing (DAS). Distributed acoustic sensing is a known type of sensing where an optical fibre is deployed as a sensing fibre and repeatedly interrogated with electromagnetic radiation to provide sensing of acoustic activity along its length. Typically one or more input pulses of radiation are launched into the optical fibre. By analysing the radiation backscattered from within the fibre, the fibre can effectively be divided into a plurality of discrete sensing portions which may be (but do not have to be) contiguous. Within each discrete sensing portion mechanical disturbances of the fibre, for instance due to incident acoustic waves, cause a variation in the properties of the radiation which is backscattered from that portion. This variation can be detected and analysed and used to give a measure of the intensity of disturbance of the fibre at that sensing portion. Thus the DAS sensor effectively acts as a linear sensing array of acoustic sensing portions of optical fibre. The length of the sensing portions of fibre is determined by the characteristics of the interrogating radiation and the processing applied to the backscatter signals but typically sensing portions of the order of a few meters to a few tens of meters or so may be used. As used in this specification the term “distributed acoustic sensing” will be taken to mean sensing by interrogating an optical fibre to provide a plurality of discrete acoustic sensing portions distributed longitudinally along the fibre and the term “distributed acoustic sensor” shall be interpreted accordingly. The term “acoustic” shall mean any type of pressure wave or mechanical disturbance that may result in a change of strain on an optical fibre and for the avoidance of doubt the term acoustic be taken to include ultrasonic and subsonic waves as well as seismic waves. DAS can be operated to provide many sensing portions or channels over a long length of fibre, for example DAS can be applied on fibre lengths of up to 40 km or more with contiguous sensing channels of the order of 10 m long. In co-pending patent application GB1201768.7 it has been proposed that DAS sensors may be deployed along transport networks, such as rail or road networks, to provide monitoring of traffic movement on the transport network as part of a control method and/or to detect abnormal traffic movement. For instance in a rail network, movement of a train on a train track adjacent a DAS sensing fibre will generate acoustic signals that can be used to track the train as it moves, providing real time positional information to a resolution of a few tens of meters continuously along the entire length of the monitored section. The present inventors have realised that DAS can be used to provide condition monitoring of a structure forming part of or associated with a transport network by monitoring the acoustic response of the structure to the passage of traffic on the network. The present inventors have identified that movement of traffic on the network provides acoustic excitation of the structure and that the response of the structure itself can be discriminated from the general noise of the traffic. In other words the traffic movement provides an acoustic source and, surprisingly, the acoustic signals associated with the structure itself can be separately identified as distinct from the acoustic source. Further the inventors have realised that acoustic response of a structure to the passage of traffic may be largely the same even when the traffic differs. In other words, taking the example of monitoring a tunnel on a rail network, the passage of a first train through the tunnel excites the same general response in the tunnel as subsequently the passage of another train through the same tunnel. The transport network may be a network for the vehicular movement of people and/or goods and may in particular be a rail network. It has therefore been appreciated that the acoustic response of the structure can be monitored during network operation to provide ongoing condition monitoring. Any significant changes in acoustic response may indicate a change in condition. The method therefore involves performing distributed acoustic sensing on at least one optical fibre to provide a measurement signal from each of a plurality of acoustic sensing portions as described above. The at least one sensing fibre is deployed so as to monitor the structure. The sensing fibre may be deployed to run through a structure such as a tunnel, bridge, viaduct, embankment or cutting and, in some instances, at least part of the fibre may be embedded within the material of the structure. In other applications however a sensing fibre may additionally or alternatively be deployed with at least part of the optical fibre adjacent to the structure or attached to the structure. As mentioned previously the measurement signals generated from movement of traffic, i.e. vehicles, on the transport network in the vicinity of said structure are analysed to identify acoustic signals associated with said structure, i.e. to distinguish those signals due to the acoustic response of the structure from any signals directly due to traffic movement. As will be described later this may be achieved in various ways. The acoustic signals which are identified as being associated with the structure are then analysed to provide an indication of any changes in condition of said structure. In one embodiment analysing the acoustic signals associated with said structure comprises comparing the acoustic signals with previously acquired acoustic signals. As described previously the general acoustic response of the structure may be the same for generally the same type of traffic movement, e.g. trains travelling in the same direction through a tunnel may excite the same general response if there has been no significant change in tunnel conditions. In effect therefore the structure may exhibit an acoustic signature. For example consider a tunnel which is 300 m in length say with a DAS sensing optical fibre running through the tunnel and interrogated so as to provide sensing portions of the order of 15 m in length. There may therefore be 20 contiguous sensing portions of fibre along the length of the tunnel. In response to a train passing through the tunnel some sensing portions may typically exhibit an acoustic response which is more intense and/or persists for longer than other sensing portions. In addition some sensing portions may exhibit strong responses at some acoustic frequencies compared to others. Thus the patterns of relative intensity, time evolution and/or frequencies of the measurement signals from the various sensing portions corresponding to the structure may be seen as an acoustic signature for the structure, in this example the tunnel. The acoustic signature detected in response to movement of traffic near the structure could then be compared to a pre-existing signature corresponding to or derived from one or more previously detected responses. If the most recently acquired acoustic signature is substantially the same as the pre-existing signature this may be taken as an indication that the properties of the structure are the same and thus the condition of the structure has not changed. However if, for example, a sensing portion exhibits an acoustic response which has a markedly different relative intensity or duration than previously this could indicate a change in properties of the structure, which could potentially indicate a change in the condition of the structure. In some embodiments analysing the acoustic signals associated with the structure may comprise identifying acoustic waves propagating in the structure. Especially for elongate structures, i.e. structures such as tunnels that extend for some distance and thus may extend for several sensing portions of the DAS sensor, the propagation of acoustic waves within the structure may be identified. Typically the acoustic energy generated by traffic moving along a structure such as a tunnel will lead to acoustic waves propagating along the structure. This will lead to a series of disturbances of the fibre which will be detected by the DAS sensor as an acoustic signal affecting the various sensing portions in sequence. The propagation of such acoustic waves may form at least part of the acoustic signature of the structure and may be compared to previously detected responses to detect any significant change. In particular the method may involve identifying any discontinuities in acoustic waves propagating in the structure, for example a sudden change in velocity or intensity of the wave or detection of a reflection. To take a simple example, consider that a structure comprises a homogeneous solid material. Any acoustic wave propagating within such a structure may be expected to travel at a relatively constant speed (subject to any multipath effects) and with a relatively constant attenuation. If however there is a discontinuity, such as a crack or void within the material, there may be a step change in velocity or intensity at the crack or void and/or significant reflections may be generated. The step change and/or reflections could be detected indicating a potential problem at the location of the relevant sensing portion—especially if such step change or reflections had not previously been detected. The method may therefore comprise analysing the propagation speeds of acoustic waves in the structure. Note that the propagation speed of acoustic waves propagating in the structure may be different to the propagation speed of acoustic waves in air. Thus detecting a propagation speed which is different to that from air may be used to detect the signals propagating in the structure. Also the propagation speed of acoustic waves in the structure which it is wished to monitor may be different to the propagation speed of acoustic waves in other structure forming the transport network. For example consider a rail network. There will be rails forming the railway along the whole of transport network. As a train travels on the network at least some acoustic signals may propagate through the rails at a speed determined by the composition of the rails (and possibly environmental effects). When the train reaches a tunnel some acoustic signals may propagate through the tunnel at a different speed to any signals travelling through air or through the rails. Detection of signals propagating at different speeds may be used to discriminate between those signals propagating through the structure of interest and any other network structure. The method may also comprise identifying acoustic waves propagating at different speeds in the structure. Typically a structure may comprise various different materials. For instance there may be mix of some or all of concrete filings, brickworks, steel beams etc. all of which will exhibit a different speed of sound. Thus an acoustic wave propagating along an elongate structure may travel at different speeds in different parts of the structure. By looking at the speed of the acoustic wave as it propagates along the structure it may be possible to detect the acoustic signals from different parts of the structure. If the various components of the structure are known it may therefore be possible to discriminate between the acoustic response of different materials within the structure. The method may therefore comprise analysing the measurement signals from the sensing portions to detect acoustic signals propagating along the structure at predefined speeds or within a predefined range of speeds. In other words when analysing the returns from a structure having significant amounts of concrete the method may comprise looking for signals propagating at the speed of sound in concrete. Looking for particular expected propagation speeds can aid in distinguishing the acoustic response of the structure from the direct noise of the traffic which is detected by the DAS sensor. In one embodiment however the acoustic response from the structure is detected by looking at the measurement signals which are recorded before and/or after the traffic passes the relevant sensing portion(s). Thus the acoustic signals associated with the structure are those detected by the sensing portions before and/or after the traffic movement past the relevant sensing portion. As traffic moves on a network, such as a train moving on a rail track, the noise generated by the train will propagate in front and behind of the moving train. Thus as the traffic approaches a structure, especially an enclosed structure such as a tunnel, the sound of the moving traffic, e.g. train, will acoustically stimulate the structure. As mentioned above the acoustic energy will couple to the structure and, for an elongate structure such as a tunnel, will propagate along the tunnel. At this point the acoustic signals detected by the DAS sensor will comprise largely the acoustic response of the structure to a stimulus coming from a defined direction. This allows the acoustic response of the structure itself to be determined. Once the train actually reaches the relevant sensing portions however the fibre will be directly stimulated from several different directions from different parts of the train and all sensing portions will typically exhibit an intense response. Thus any influence of the structure on the acoustic response may be swamped by the ‘direct’ disturbance caused by the train. Once the train has passed the relevant sensing portions however the acoustic source will again become more directional. In addition the acoustic excitation of the structure due to passage of the train may take some time to subside and thus acoustic response following passage of the train will also be largely due to the acoustic response of the structure. As well the general noise created by the traffic as it moves, high speed traffic can also produce a pressure impulse on nearby structures, especially portals such as bridges or tunnels. As a high speed train reaches a tunnel the air pressure will increase due to the motion of the train. As the train passes the air pressure will then reduce. This can create a pressure impulse which acoustically excites the structure. The acoustic response of the structure to such a pressure impulse can be monitored as described above. In addition by looking at the low frequency response of the DAS sensor the increase and decrease in strain caused by the increase and decrease in air pressure may be detected, which may provide information about the condition of the structure. As mentioned previously the optical fibre used for DAS is deployed so as to monitor the structure, which may involve the optical fibre being arranged to run through a structure such as a tunnel or bridge. The optical fibre could be a dedicated optical fibre which has been deployed specifically for monitoring of the structure or could be an optical fibre which had previously been deployed for some other purposes but which is suitable for use as a sensing fibre in a DAS system. For example in a tunnel there may be existing fibre optic cables intended for communications which may have redundant optical fibres that can be used for DAS. In some embodiments at least one sensing fibre may form part of a DAS monitoring system used for monitoring and/or control of movement of traffic on the transport network. As mentioned previously DAS is well suited to monitoring movement of traffic on a transport network, especially movement of rail vehicles on a rail network. A single DAS sensor can provide a contiguous series of sensing channels separated by 10 m or so for a length of up to 40 km or more and greater lengths can achieved by using more sensors. A single DAS interrogator unit may be multiplexed between two fibres to provide sensing over a distance of 80 km (with the interrogator in the middle) with the fibres deployed along the path of the network. This offers the ability for continuity of sensing along large parts of the network. The sensing fibre may be standard telecoms fibre and thus is relatively cheap. The fibre may be simply buried alongside the transport networks, e.g. along the sides or underneath tracks or roads in a narrow channel at any depth required. The optical fibre can be encased in a protective casing and can survive for a long time with no maintenance. Thus installation and maintenance costs are low. In many transport networks there may already be optic fibre deployed along at least the major routes and such existing communications infrastructure may comprise redundant optical fibres that can be used for DAS. The optical fibre is interrogated by optical pulses generated by the interrogator unit (as will be explained in more detail later) and thus power is only needed for the interrogator units. Thus the sensing fibre may be deployed along the path of the transport network and used to track the movement of traffic on the network. In addition, in the vicinity of structures which it is wished to monitor the condition of, the acoustic signals associated with the structure may be detected and analysed as set out above. The deployment of the fibre may therefore simply be to follow the general path of the network, e.g. be laid alongside the rail track. For some structures however, e.g. bridges, a first section of fibre could be deployed alongside the path of the transport network until the structure is reaches, at which point a second section of fibre could be deployed in relation to the structure to provide sensing of the structure, before continuing along the rest of the path of the network. Thus the second section of fibre may be arranged to be attached to the bridge say. The fibre before and after the second section may be deployed to run alongside the path of the transport network and the measurement signals from these sensing portions can be used to track traffic motion of traffic on the network. However the returns from the first section will give useful information about the condition of the structure. As mentioned the method is particularly applicable to rail networks and thus the optical fibre may be deployed alongside a rail network. The method is also particularly useful for monitoring the condition of tunnels. The optical fibre may therefore be deployed alongside a rail track running through the tunnel. In some embodiments the structure to be monitored may include the rail track itself. As mentioned above the noise from the train will travel ahead or the train and behind the train for some distance. Some of this noise will be carried by acoustic waves propagating in the rails and the propagation of this acoustic signal through the rails will give an indication of the condition of the rails themselves and underlying track. The expected propagation speed of acoustic signals through the rails may be known and the thus the acoustic signals in front of and behind the moving train may be analysed to detect the signals propagating within the expected range of speeds as described previously. As describe however the method of the present invention allows structure which is separate from the rail track to be monitored using the passage of trains on the track, without requiring any direct active stimulus of the structure. In the case of tunnels the structure being monitored is not structure over which the vehicle of the transport network travel. The method also extends to the processing of data from a DAS system to provide condition monitoring. Thus in another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of condition monitoring of structures forming part of a transport network, the method comprising receiving a plurality of measurement signals acquired by a one or more distributed acoustic sensors having one or more optical fibres deployed to monitor said structure; analysing the measurement signals generated from movement of traffic on the transport network in the vicinity of said structure to identify acoustic signals associated with said structure; and analysing said acoustic signals associated with said structure to provide an indication of any changes in condition of said structure. The method according to this aspect of the invention thus receives data which has been acquired by DAS and analyses such data as described previously. It thus operates in all of the same ways and offers all of the same advantages as the first aspect of the invention. Aspects of the invention also relate to a computer program or computer readable storage medium comprising computer readable code, which when executed on a suitable computing device, implements any of the methods described above. The invention also relates to a distributed acoustic sensing system comprising an interrogator unit for, in use, performing distributed acoustic sensing on one or more optical fibres deployed to monitor a structure of a transport network to provide a measurement signal from each of a plurality of acoustic sensing portions; and a processor configured to analyse the measurement signals generated from movement of traffic on the transport network in the vicinity of said structure to identify acoustic signals associated with said structure; and analyse said acoustic signals associated with said structure to provide an indication of any changes in condition of said structure. The system according to this aspect of the present invention offers all of the same advantages and can be used in all of the same ways as the methods described above. The system, in use will comprise an optical fibre deployed to monitor the structure and at least part of the optical fibre may be deployed along the path of a transport network. The transport network may be a rail network and the system may be configured to monitor the condition of one or more tunnels on the network. The system may also be used to track the movement of traffic on the network and/or to provide one or more control signals for controlling movement of traffic on the network. The invention also provides a transport network control system comprising such a distributed acoustic sensing system. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, of which: FIG. 1 shows a conventional DAS sensor arrangement; FIG. 2 illustrates a transport network been provided with DAS sensors; FIG. 3 shows data acquired from a DAS sensor monitoring trains moving on a section of track including a tunnel; FIG. 4 shows more data acquired from a DAS sensor from a train passing a tunnel; FIG. 5 illustrates how sensing fibre may be deployed upon a structure to be monitored; and FIG. 6 illustrates data acquired from a DAS sensor on a rail network from monitoring trains passing a viaduct, a tunnel and a bridge. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION FIG. 1 shows a schematic of a distributed fibre optic sensing arrangement. A length of sensing fibre 104 is removably connected at one end to an interrogator 106 . The output from interrogator 106 is passed to a signal processor 108 , which may be co-located with the interrogator or may be remote therefrom, and optionally a user interface/graphical display 110 , which in practice may be realised by an appropriately specified PC. The user interface may be co-located with the signal processor or may be remote therefrom. The sensing fibre 104 can be many kilometers in length and can be, for instance 40 km or more in length. The sensing fibre may be a standard, unmodified single mode optic fibre such as is routinely used in telecommunications applications without the need for deliberately introduced reflection sites such a fibre Bragg grating or the like. The ability to use an unmodified length of standard optical fibre to provide sensing means that low cost readily available fibre may be used. However in some embodiments the fibre may comprise a fibre which has been fabricated to be especially sensitive to incident vibrations. The fibre will be protected by containing it with a cable structure. In use the fibre 104 is deployed in an area of interest to be monitored. In operation the interrogator 106 launches interrogating electromagnetic radiation, which may for example comprise a series of optical pulses having a selected frequency pattern, into the sensing fibre. The optical pulses may have a frequency pattern as described in GB patent publication GB2,442,745 the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference thereto, although DAS sensors relying on a single interrogating pulse are also known and may be used. Note that as used herein the term “optical” is not restricted to the visible spectrum and optical radiation includes infrared radiation and ultraviolet radiation. As described in GB2,442,745 the phenomenon of Rayleigh backscattering results in some fraction of the light input into the fibre being reflected back to the interrogator, where it is detected to provide an output signal which is representative of acoustic disturbances in the vicinity of the fibre. The interrogator therefore conveniently comprises at least one laser 112 and at least one optical modulator 114 for producing a plurality of optical pulses separated by a known optical frequency difference. The interrogator also comprises at least one photodetector 116 arranged to detect radiation which is Rayleigh backscattered from the intrinsic scattering sites within the fibre 104 . A Rayleigh backscatter DAS sensor is very useful in embodiments of the present invention but systems based on Brillouin or Raman scattering are also known and could be used in embodiments of the invention. The signal from the photodetector is processed by signal processor 108 . The signal processor conveniently demodulates the returned signal based on the frequency difference between the optical pulses, for example as described in GB2,442,745. The signal processor may also apply a phase unwrap algorithm as described in GB2,442,745. The phase of the backscattered light from various sections of the optical fibre can therefore be monitored. Any changes in the effective optical path length within a given section of fibre, such as would be due to incident pressure waves causing strain on the fibre, can therefore be detected. The form of the optical input and the method of detection allow a single continuous fibre to be spatially resolved into discrete longitudinal sensing portions. That is, the acoustic signal sensed at one sensing portion can be provided substantially independently of the sensed signal at an adjacent portion. Such a sensor may be seen as a fully distributed or intrinsic sensor, as it uses the intrinsic scattering processed inherent in an optical fibre and thus distributes the sensing function throughout the whole of the optical fibre. The spatial resolution of the sensing portions of optical fibre may, for example, be approximately 10 m, which for a continuous length of fibre of the order of 40 km say provides 4000 independent acoustic channels or so deployed along a 40 km section of transport network, such as a section of a rail network. This can provide effectively simultaneous monitoring of the entire 40 km section of track. In an application to train monitoring the individual sensing portions may each be of the order of 10 m in length or less. As the sensing optical fibre is relatively inexpensive the sensing fibre may be deployed in a location in a permanent fashion as the costs of leaving the fibre in situ are not significant. The fibre may be deployed alongside or under the track (or road) and may for instance be buried alongside a section of track. FIG. 2 illustrates a section of traffic network, in this instance, a rail network 201 , having optical fibre buried alongside the tracks. In this example the track has three braches 202 , 203 and 204 . As mentioned above fibre optic sensing can be performed on fibre lengths of the order of 40-50 km. However for some DAS sensors it can be difficult to reliably sense beyond 50 km or so along a fibre. A length of 40-50 km may be sufficient to monitor a desired section of track, say between main stations, and other fibres could be deployed to monitor other sections of track. For very long tracks it may be necessary to chain several DAS sensors together. FIG. 2 illustrates one interrogator unit 106 arranged to monitor one optical fibre 104 a deployed along one part of the track (including part of braches 202 and 204 ) and another optical fibre 104 b deployed along another length of track (branch 202 ). The interrogator unit could house two lasers and detectors etc., i.e. dedicated components for each fibre or the laser and possibly detector could be multiplexed between the two fibres. After 40 km say of fibre 104 b another fibre could be deployed which is monitored by another interrogator unit. Thus there could be 80 km or so between interrogator units. In this example branch 203 is also monitored by a DAS sensor using a different sensing fibre 104 c which is connected to a different interrogator unit (not shown). In use the interrogator operates as described above to provide a series of contiguous acoustic sensing channels along the path of the track branches. In use the acoustic signals generated by a train 205 in motion along the track 204 may be detected and analysed to determine the exact train location and the speed. As a significant length of track can be monitored by contiguous sensing portions of fibre it can relatively straightforward to detect train movement along the track. Clearly movement of the train will create a range of noises, from the engine noise of the locomotive, noises from the train cars and the couplings and noise from the wheels on the track. The acoustic signals will be greatest in the vicinity of the train and thus be looking at the intensity of the signals detected by the sensor the returns from the sensing portions of fibre adjacent the current position of the train will exhibit a relatively high acoustic intensity. Embodiments of the present invention however may also use the acoustic signals detected by the DAS sensor(s) to provide condition monitoring of structure forming part of the network infrastructure. Such structures may especially be tunnels but may also be bridges, embankments or cuttings or the like, the integrity of which is important for safe operation of the network. FIG. 2 illustrates a structure 206 which may comprise a tunnel through which branch 202 of the network runs. The optical fibre 104 b also runs through the tunnel 206 . The movement of the train 205 towards and through tunnel 206 provides an acoustic stimulus to the tunnel which can be used to determine information about the condition of the tunnel. FIG. 3 illustrates some acoustic data obtained by performing some DAS sensing on an optical fibre deployed along a train track as trains traveled on the track. FIG. 3 shows a “waterfall plot” where the acoustic intensity from a selection of sensing channels over time is shown. The horizontal axis shows the various contiguous channels from a length of fibre. This data was acquired with a channel length of about 15 m. Time is illustrated in the vertical axis with more recent events at the top. In a typical waterfall plot the detected acoustic intensity may be illustrated by colour, however clearly FIG. 3 is black and white and acoustic intensity is represented by intensity of shade (with black being high intensity). FIG. 3 illustrates a first series 301 of disturbances detected which are due to a first train travelling on the monitored section of track. It can be seen that the disturbances progress along the channels of the sensor in a fairly constant manner which is consistent with a train travelling at a relatively constant speed. Knowing that each channel of the sensor is 15 m in this example by looking at the rate of movement of the disturbances the speed of the train can be estimated. In effect the speed is the gradient of the series of disturbances. FIG. 3 also shows a second series of disturbances 302 , that, for a given channel, occur later in time. This indicates a second train also travelling on the monitored section of track behind the first train. By looking at the number of channels separating the two trains the distance between the trains, or headway, can be determined. It will be seen that the acoustic disturbance due to the train is very intense for a number of sensing channels—which can be used to indicate the length of the train—however most the sensing channels are only excited as the train is actually passing by. It can be seen however that there is an acoustic feature 303 in the first series of disturbances 301 where a number of sensing channels exhibit a response for a greater period of time as the train passes. A similar feature 304 can also be seen when looking at the second series of disturbances 302 . These features correspond to the acoustic response of a tunnel. It can be seen that as the acoustic disturbance due to the train reaches around channel 1075 , there is a detectable response from channels 1075 to 990 . It can be seen that these channels also exhibit a relatively strong response until the main intense disturbance due to the train has passed channel 990 , which point the intensity of most of these channels quickly drops to normal background levels. The same general pattern occurs in both features 303 and 304 . FIG. 4 shows the acoustic response from another monitored section of track with sensing fibre running through a tunnel in a bit more detail. FIG. 4 is a waterfall plot similar to FIG. 3 but shows a shorter section of monitored track, i.e. shows the response from the channels in more detail. In this plot the train was clearly moving along the track in a direction of increasing channel number. Again it can be seen that the channels between positions 401 (about channel 1798 ) and 402 (about channel 1910 ) exhibit a prolonged acoustic response to the passage of the train. These 112 channels or sensing portions correspond to the section of optical fibre running through the tunnel. The tunnel length is thus about 1.68 km (with a channel width or length of sensing portion of 15 m). It can also be seen that as the train reaches position 401 , around channel 1798 , that an acoustic signal spreads quickly along most of the channels of the tunnel. It will be seen however that the some channels exhibit much stronger responses than other channels. for example the channel indicated at 403 (around channel 1831 ) exhibit a relatively stronger response than other channels both before the train reaches that channel and after the train has passed that channel. It can be seen that the disturbances due to the train actually passing a channel are very high and thus any pattern in the data from such channels is typically masked by the high intensity disturbances. But it can be seen that there is noticeable structure in the acoustic feature resulting from disturbances detected before and after the train has passed. The acoustic response from the relevant channels which are acquired before and after the train passes may therefore be analysed to provide condition monitoring. For instance the data may be compared to data previously acquired to see if there are any significant changes. Thus referring to FIG. 4 if the relatively strong acoustic response at the channel indicated at position 403 was not present in any previous response this could indicate that something significant has changed in tunnel condition at this location. It will be noted that the detection of a possible anomaly also provides an indication of the location of such anomaly. Thus an inspection team could be dispatched to exactly the desired location. The data used for comparison may comprise or be derived from a plurality of previously acquired acoustic responses. For example there may be an average response, or possible several average responses for different train types, speeds, weather conditions etc. The currently acquired data could be compared to the relevant previous data to detect any significant changes. If no significant changes are detected the current acquired response could be added to the body of previous data for use in comparison. If any significant changes are detected this could be used to generate an alert to a control room. The comparison may involve comparing the pattern of intensity responses from the various sensing portions. As mentioned above definite structure can be seen in the response shown in FIG. 4 . In addition however the data may be analysed by frequency to look for characteristic frequencies and/or the data may be analysed to detect the propagation of acoustic waves along the tunnel. It can be seen from FIG. 4 that once the train reaches the start of the tunnel an acoustic signal propagates along the tunnel at relatively high speed. The propagation speed may be determined and/or the signals may be analysed to look for expected propagations speeds. For instance if the tunnel comprises a known material the returns could be analysed to look for signals propagating at such speeds. It should be noted that the propagation speed of acoustic signals through the trackside structure, e.g. tunnels, is typically different to the propagation speed of acoustic signals through air or through the rails. The acoustic speed of propagation can be used to determine the signals corresponding to the structure. The discussion so far has focussed on tunnels but the same techniques may be applied to other structures, such as bridges or other structures forming a portal, or in some instances other trackside structures. In this case the sensing fibre may not be simply laid to run through the tunnel but may be attached to the structure. The structure to be monitored may thus be separate to and distinct from any structure, such as the rail track itself along which the vehicles directly travel. FIG. 5 illustrates an example where a section 501 of transport network, such as a rail track, is provided with a sensing fibre 502 . A first section 502 a of sensing fibre is deployed to run alongside the path of the transport network and may be buried alongside the track as described previously. The track may run through a structure 503 which it is wished to monitor the condition of, for example a bridge. At this point the optical fibre may emerge from the ground and may be deployed to monitor the structure. A second section 502 b of fibre may therefore be arranged to be attached to the structure. As shown in FIG. 5 the fibre may be arranged to run alongside the bridge and then loop back again. The rest of the fibre 502 c may then be deployed to run along the path of the network 501 . The section of fibre which is deployed on the structure may be any suitable length but may be arranged to be at least as long as two sensing portions of the DAS sensor so as to ensure that at least one sensing portion falls entirely within the section of fibre deployed on the structure. In general the fibre may be attached to the structure by any suitable means, however in some instances it may be possible to embed a fibre into the material of the structure itself. Such a fibre may therefore be a dedicated fibre for monitoring the structure or may again form part of the monitoring for of the transport network. FIGS. 6 a to 6 c shows some further data acquired from a DAS sensor having sensing fibre laid along a rail network as trains pass by infrastructure of the rail network, namely a viaduct, a bridge and a tunnel. In each case the top plot shows a waterfall diagram of acoustic intensity along the sensing channels of the optical fibre against time (intensity being represented by colour in an actual display) along with an analysis of the various components making up the acoustic signals detected. In each case relatively intense signals distinct from the main noise associated with the train itself can be detected and acoustic signals travelling up and down the relevant structure at propagation speeds different to propagation in air or the rails can be detected. The same techniques may also be applicable to other transport networks. For instance a road network may have fibre laid along the road which is used for DAS sensing and such fibre may pass under bridges or through tunnels. The acoustic response to traffic moving on the road may be monitored. It will be appreciated that road traffic may not as spread out as rail traffic so there may be a more constant stimulus during busy road periods which may disguise the acoustic response of the structure. However the DAS sensing fibre may be constantly monitored and there may be periods of light use, for instant at night, where individual traffic passes and the acoustic response can be detected in a similar fashion to that described above. In general then the embodiments of the present invention provide low cost methods for remote condition monitoring that provides good spatial coverage, even for long tunnels and the like and which uses the normal movement of traffic on the network to provide an acoustic stimulus to the structure being monitored.
The present invention relates to conditions monitoring of structures forming part of a transport network, e.g. structural health monitoring of structures, especially tunnels by performing distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) on at least one optical fiber ( 104 ) deployed so as to monitor the structure ( 206 ) and detecting and analyzing the acoustic response to movement of traffic ( 205 ) on the network in the vicinity of the structure to detect the acoustic response ( 303, 304 ) of the structure. The acoustic response of the structure is then analyzed to detect any change in condition.
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BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to trading systems and methods. More particularly to methods and systems that reconcile exchange account data with firm account data and that provide adjustment mechanisms. [0003] 2. Description of the Related Art [0004] Brokerage houses receive orders from clients and have those orders filled by executing trades at exchanges. Brokerage houses maintain records showing firm account data that includes a list of all of the positions held by clients of the brokerage house. Periodically exchanges provide records that include exchange account data to brokerage houses. Exchange account data includes a list of all of the positions, including cash positions, held by the brokerage house or firm at the exchange. Human error, system problems and other factors sometimes result in firm account data being different from exchange account data. In order to meet regulatory requirements brokerage houses must periodically reconcile firm account data and exchange account data. [0005] Prior art approaches to reconciling firm account data and exchange account data have included generating paper reports for each exchange or brokerage house. After reviewing a report, a user must then investigate the matter and access the appropriate record systems to make necessary adjustments. [0006] There are several drawbacks to the conventional systems and methods for reconciling firm account data with exchange account data. For example, when a brokerage house conducts transactions at several exchanges, the variety of formats and media used by exchanges to report exchange account data has made it burdensome for the brokerage houses to reconcile all of the trading data. Moreover, systems that generate the reports used to reconcile data have not provided a mechanism for users to investigate discrepancies or correct those discrepancies. [0007] Therefore, there is a need in the art for systems and methods that allow brokerage houses to reconcile trading data received from a plurality of exchanges and brokerage houses. There is also a need in the art for reconciliation systems and methods that facilitate the correction of discrepancies in firm account data and exchange account data. SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0008] The present invention overcomes one or more of the problems and limitations of the prior art by providing methods and systems that allow brokerage houses to reconcile trading data and enter adjustments. A match system compares firm account data to exchange account data and generates a list of discrepancies. A user interface is generated that displays the discrepancies and that facilitates entering adjustments. [0009] In one embodiment, advantages of aspects of the present invention are provided by a computer-implemented method of reconciling firm account data with exchange account data received from at least one exchange. The method includes receiving exchange account data that lists positions held by clients of the firm at at least one exchange and receiving firm account data that lists positions held by the clients of the firm at the exchange. The exchange account data is compared to the firm account data. Positions included in the exchange account data and the firm account data that do not match are displayed on a display device. As used herein, “positions” includes cash positions. Next, an input for additional information relating to the positions that do not match is received from a user. In response to the input, additional information is displayed on a display device. [0010] In another embodiment of the invention, a computer-readable medium containing computer-executable components is provided. The components include a matching module that compares exchange account data to firm account data and identifies positions included in the exchange account data and the firm account data that do not match. A display module that generates information to display on a display device regarding the positions that do not match and, in response to a request from a user, additional information regarding the positions that do not match is also included. [0011] Of course, the methods and systems of the above-referenced embodiments may also include other additional elements, steps, computer-executable instructions, or computer-readable data structures. In this regard, other embodiments are disclosed and claimed herein as well. [0012] The details of these and other embodiments of the present invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0013] The present invention may take physical form in certain parts and steps, embodiments of which will be described in detail in the following description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, wherein: [0014] FIG. 1 shows a system for reconciling and correcting trading data in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; [0015] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary display screen for presenting account data to a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; [0016] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary login page, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; [0017] FIG. 4 illustrates an adjustment page, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and [0018] FIG. 5 illustrates an edit page that allows a user to edit adjustments, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0019] FIG. 1 shows a system for reconciling firm account data and exchange account data in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. A format module 102 receives exchange account data from exchanges 104 and 106 . Format module 102 may also receive exchange data from a brokerage house 108 . A firm using the system shown in FIG. 1 may use brokerage house 108 to conduct trades at foreign exchanges or at exchanges that are seldom used by the firm. Of course additional exchanges and brokerage houses may be connected to format module 102 . Moreover, some exchanges and/or brokerage houses may transmit data directly to matching module 110 when the data is known to be in a proper format. [0020] Each exchange or brokerage house connected to format module 102 may deliver data in a different format or use a different media. For example, exchange 104 may represent the Chicago Board of Trade and have a specific format for delivering exchange account data. Exchange 106 may represent the New York Stock Exchange that may use a format that is different from the format used by exchange 104 . Moreover, exchange 104 may transmit data via email while exchange 106 may use the postal service to deliver an optical disk containing the data. [0021] After receiving exchange account data, format module 102 may transform the data into a common format that may be used by a matching module 110 . Format module 102 may perform functions such as extracting data from files having different formats, reformatting data to use a common terminology and converting currencies. Format module 102 may also translate text. The functions performed by format module 102 may facilitate processing by matching module 110 . [0022] A firm using the system shown in FIG. 1 may perform trading services for several different clients. The firm may be a brokerage house or other entity. Client account 112 contains two trading positions. The client holds 100 contracts for May corn at the Chicago Board of Trade and 50 contracts for June wheat at the Chicago Board of Trade. A second client 114 holds 25 contracts for May corn at the Chicago Board of Trade. Two clients are shown for illustration purposes only and with the understanding that aspects of the present invention may be implemented with numerous additional clients. An aggregation module 116 may receive client account data, aggregate the data and generate firm account data. For example, aggregation module 116 may aggregate the May corn contracts held in client accounts 112 and 114 to generate firm account data showing 125 May corn contracts at the Chicago Board of Trade. [0023] Matching module 110 receives exchange account data from format module 102 and firm account data from aggregation module 116 . In one embodiment a user may provide data directly to format module 102 or matching module 110 , such as by entering the data with a keyboard or other conventional input device. This embodiment may be used, for example, when exchange data is received in a format that cannot be directly imported into format module 102 or matching module 110 . Matching module 110 then compares the exchange account data and the firm account data and identifies any discrepancies. Comparisons may be made based on parameters such as origin, commodity, month, year, price, strike price, put or call and prompt date. [0024] Inconsistent firm account data and exchange account data may then be brought to the user's attention. For example, if the number of May corn contracts included in the exchange account data for the Chicago Board of Trade do not correspond to the number of May corn contracts included in the firm account data for the Chicago Board of Trade, matching module 110 would identify this discrepancy. [0025] The identification of contracts that do not match may be transmitted to a display module 118 . Display module 118 may then generate a computer display to present to the user. FIG. 2 illustrates one exemplary page 200 for presenting account data to a user. Page 200 only lists the contracts at are not reconciled to allow the user to quickly identify and correct discrepancies. Page 200 may include hyperlinks to allow the user to quickly access additional account information and to determine the source of errors when correcting errors. For example, a hyperlink 202 may be selected by a user to display further details of a particular contract. If the first row in page 200 corresponds to a particular contract traded at a particular exchange, hyperlink 202 may link to a page that lists all of the clients who hold positions for the contract. A variety of conventional mechanisms may be used to present information to the user. For example, selecting a client name may result in contact information for that client being displayed. [0026] Once the cause of a discrepancy has been identified, the user may then make an adjustment to firm account data and/or exchange account data. An adjustment module 120 may be included to request information from a user and make the necessary adjustments. In one embodiment, before any adjustments to firm account data for exchange account data are made, the user wishing to make the adjustments must identify himself to the system. FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary login page. The user enters a user ID in section 302 and a password in section 304 . Requiring users to identify themselves protects the integrity of the data and creates an audit trail that may be used to determine why and when data was modified. [0027] FIG. 4 illustrates an adjustment page that may be generated by display module 118 and/or adjustment module 120 . Page 400 allows a user to identify specific contracts and make any necessary adjustments. Exemplary fields that may be included as part of page 400 include: an account number, expiration month, buy or sell identification, commodity, strike price, order number, new price, prompt date, the identification of an exchange or trading house, quantity, expiration year, identification of the contract as a put or a call, price, adjustments and transaction identification. Alternative fields may be used in addition to or in place of the fields shown in FIG. 4 . [0028] FIG. 5 illustrates a page 500 that displays adjustments made by a user and that allows the user to edit those adjustments before saving the adjustments. Adjustments may be provided to matching module 110 and/or other modules or systems. In one embodiment in the invention, any adjustments made by user are entered directly into the firm account data or exchange account data maintained by the firm. In another embodiment of the invention, matching module 110 receives exchange account data, firm account data and adjustments provided by the user and repeats the matching process to identify any additional discrepancies. [0029] One of the advantages of aspects of the present invention is that after any adjustments are made to firm account data and/or exchange account data, the relevant data may be used by other applications or processes. An integration module 122 may convert account data into a format for use by a processing application 124 . For example, firm account data may be stored in a particular spreadsheet format and integration module 122 may extract relevant portions of the data, perform any necessary conversions, such as currency conversions, and export those portions to a word processing application that is used to generate a report. A report may be in the form of an electronic document, electronic file, physical document or some other form used to convey information. Integration module 122 may also directly process firm account data and/or exchange account data. In one particular embodiment, integration module 122 is used to populate fields of a segregated funds report. [0030] The system shown in FIG. 1 may also include a margin account module 126 . Margin account module 126 may determine the required amounts of money that must be maintained in exchange margin accounts. For example, exchange 104 may require the brokerage house to maintain an amount of money in a margin account that is a function of the positions held by the brokerage house. A margin account module 126 may apply reconciled firm account data to the rules provided by exchange 104 to alert the user of the amount of money that must be maintained in the margin account. Margin account module 126 ensures the required funds are deposited in margin accounts so that the brokerage house may invest any access funds in other accounts. [0031] One skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of different modules may be added to the system shown in FIG. 1 to process or use account data information. Moreover, the interconnections of the modules shown in FIG. 1 merely illustrate one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The modules shown may also be configured to perform additional functions, such as the functions performed by other modules. In one embodiment of the invention, the modules shown in FIG. 1 are implemented in the form of computer-executable instructions recorded on a computer readable media, such as an optical or magnetic disk or memory component. [0032] The present invention has been described herein with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, that a person understanding this invention may conceive of changes or other embodiments or variations, which utilize the principles of this invention without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. All are considered within the sphere, spirit, and scope of the invention.
Methods and systems for reconciling firm account data and exchange account data are provided. Firm account data and exchange account data are compared and discrepancies are displayed on a display device. A user may receive additional information about the data that does not match by selecting appropriate hyperlinks or other navigational items. The user may also enter adjustments.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Technical Field [0002] The present invention relates to an art of a diesel engine. [0003] 2. Background Art [0004] Conventionally, a diesel engine, in which fuel is injected to a combustion chamber provided in an upper surface of a piston and the fuel is burnt in the combustion chamber, is known. Such a diesel engine has a pressure accumulating fuel injector whose injection pattern can be set freely (hereinafter, referred to as “common rail system”). The common rail system includes a supply pump pressingly feeding the fuel, a rail storing the fuel with high pressure, and an injector injecting the fuel (for example, see the Patent Literature 1). [0005] Such a diesel engine has a metal pipe for supplying the fuel stored in the rail with high pressure to the injector (hereinafter, referred to as “injection pipe”). Namely, the rail is connected to the injector by the injection pipe. However, the injection pipe must bear the fuel with high pressure, whereby the injection pipe has high hardness and poor flexibility. Accordingly, a structure which prevents breakage of the injection pipe and looseness of attachment nuts of the injection pipe resulting from vibration and the like has been required. [0006] In such a diesel engine, operation state is changed corresponding to temperature of the fuel supplied to the injector. That is because a calorific value per unit volume of the fuel is reduced when the fuel is heated and expands and the calorific value per unit volume of the fuel is increased when the fuel is cooled and contracts. Especially, at the time of starting the engine in the cold district, there is a problem in that it takes time for the temperature of the fuel to reach a suitable value because the rail and the injection pipe are cooled. Accordingly, a structure in which the fuel temperature can be set quickly to the suitable value at the time of starting the engine in the cold district has been required. PRIOR ART REFERENCE PATENT LITERATURE [0007] Patent Literature 1: the Japanese Patent Laid Open Gazette 2011-12573 BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Problems to Be Solved by the Invention [0008] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a diesel engine which prevents breakage of an injection pipe and looseness of attachment nuts of an injection pipe resulting from vibration and the like. Furthermore, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a diesel engine in which fuel temperature can be set quickly to a suitable value at the time of starting the engine in the cold district. Means for Solving the Problems [0009] A diesel engine according to the first mode of the present invention, which has a piston slid toward or oppositely to a cylinder head and converts sliding motion of the piston into rotational motion of a crankshaft, comprises a supply pump driven by the rotation of the crankshaft, a rail storing fuel fed pressingly from the supply pump, and an injector injecting the fuel supplied from the rail to a combustion chamber formed in the piston. The rail and the injector are fixed to the cylinder head. [0010] A diesel engine according to the second mode of the present invention is the diesel engine according to the first mode of the present invention, wherein the cylinder head has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, the rail is formed substantially cylindrically, and the rail is fixed while an axis of the rail is in parallel to a lengthwise direction of the cylinder head. [0011] A diesel engine according to the third mode of the present invention is the diesel engine according to the first or second mode of the present invention, wherein the rail is supported by a bracket provided at a low position in a height direction of the cylinder head. Effect of the Invention [0012] The present invention configured as the above brings the following effects. [0013] According to the first mode, the rail and the injector are fixed to the cylinder head. [0014] Accordingly, a vibration source of the rail 4 and a vibration source of the injector are the cylinder head, whereby breakage of the injection pipe and looseness of attachment nuts of the injection pipe can be prevented. [0015] According to the second mode, the rail is fixed while the axis of the rail is in parallel to the lengthwise direction of the cylinder head. Accordingly, any bending stress is not generated on the rail even if the cylinder head is heat-expanded, whereby the breakage of the injection pipe and the looseness of the attachment nuts of the injection pipe can be prevented. [0016] According to the third mode, the rail is supported by the bracket provided at the low position in the height direction of the cylinder head. Accordingly, the heat is transmitted suitably from the cylinder head to the rail, whereby the fuel temperature can be set to the suitable value quickly at the time of starting the engine in the cold district. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0017] [ FIG. 1 ] FIG. 1 is a front view of a diesel engine. [0018] [ FIG. 2 ] FIG. 2 is a right side view of the diesel engine. [0019] [ FIG. 3 ] FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing of an operation mode of the diesel engine. [0020] [ FIG. 4 ] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the state in which a rail and an injector are attached to a cylinder head. [0021] [ FIG. 5 ] FIG. 5 is a drawing viewed from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 4 . [0022] [ FIG. 6 ] FIG. 6 is a drawing viewed from a direction of an arrow Y in FIG. 4 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0023] Next, an explanation will be given on a mode for carrying out the invention. [0024] Firstly, an explanation will be given on a diesel engine 100 briefly. [0025] FIG. 1 is a front view of the diesel engine 100 , and FIG. 2 is a right side view thereof. FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing of an operation mode of the diesel engine 100 . Arrows Fa in the drawing show flow direction of sucked air, and arrows Fe in the drawing show flow direction of exhaust gas. Arrows S in the drawing show sliding direction of a piston 13 , and arrows R in the drawing show rotation direction of a crankshaft 14 . [0026] The diesel engine 100 mainly includes an engine main part 1 , an intake path 2 , an exhaust path 3 and a common rail system 4 . [0027] The engine main part 1 generates rotation power by using expansion energy of combustion of fuel. The engine main part 1 mainly includes a cylinder block 11 , a cylinder head 12 , the piston 13 and the crankshaft 14 . [0028] In the engine main part 1 , a cylinder 11 c provided in the cylinder block 11 , the piston 13 provided slidably inside the cylinder 11 c , and the cylinder head 12 arranged oppositely to the piston 13 constitute an operation chamber W. Namely, the operation chamber W means an inner space of the cylinder 11 c whose capacity is changed by sliding movement of the piston 13 . The piston 13 is connected via a connecting rod 15 to a pin part of the crankshaft 14 so that the crankshaft 14 is rotated by the slide of the piston 13 . A concrete operation mode of the engine main part 1 is discussed later. [0029] The intake path 2 guides air sucked from the outside into the cylinder 11 c. [0030] Namely, the intake path 2 guides the air sucked from the outside into the operation chamber W. The intake path 2 mainly includes an air cleaner (not shown) and an intake manifold 22 along a flow direction of the air. [0031] The air cleaner filters the sucked air with a filter paper, sponge or the like. The air cleaner filters the air so as to prevent foreign matters such as dust from entering the operation chamber W. [0032] The intake manifold 22 distributes the air filtered by the air cleaner to the operation chambers W. Since the diesel engine 100 is a multiple cylinder engine in which the plurality of the operation chambers W are provided, the intake manifold 22 is provided so as to cover an inlet port of an intake port 12 Ip provided in each of the operation chambers W. In the diesel engine 100 , since the inlet port of the intake port 12 Ip is provided in an upper surface of the cylinder head 12 , the intake manifold 22 is attached to the upper surface of the cylinder head 12 . [0033] The exhaust path 3 guides exhaust gas discharged from an inside of the cylinder 11 c to an exhaust port. Namely, the exhaust path 3 guides the exhaust gas discharged from the operation chambers W to the exhaust port. The exhaust path 3 mainly includes an exhaust manifold 31 and an exhaust purification device 32 along a flow direction of the exhaust gas. [0034] The exhaust manifold 31 gathers exhaust gas discharged respectively from the operation chambers W. Since the diesel engine 100 is the multiple cylinder engine in which the plurality of the operation chambers W are provided, the exhaust manifold 31 is communicated with an outlet hole of an exhaust port 12 Ep provided in each of the operation chambers W. In the diesel engine 100 , since an outlet hole of the exhaust port 12 Ep is provided in a side surface of the cylinder head 12 , the exhaust manifold 31 is attached to the side surface of the cylinder head 12 . [0035] The exhaust purification device 32 removes environmental load substances contained in the exhaust gas. A diesel oxidation catalyst (hereinafter, referred to as “DOC”) is provided in the exhaust purification device 32 . The DOC oxidizes and detoxifies CO (carbon monoxide) and HC (hydrocarbon), and oxidizes and removes SOFs (soluble organic fractions) which are particle matters. [0036] The common rail system 4 is a fuel injection device whose injection pattern can be set freely. The common rail system 4 mainly includes a supply pump 41 , a rail 42 and injectors 43 . [0037] The supply pump 41 feeds pressingly fuel discharged from a fuel tank to the rail 42 . The supply pump 41 is driven by rotation power of the crankshaft 14 transmitted via a plurality of gears. In detail, the supply pump 41 is driven by the rotation power of the crankshaft 14 transmitted via a crank gear 14 G, an idle gear 17 G, a cam gear 18 G and a pump gear 41 G. The supply pump 41 has a plunger slid by rotation of a driving shaft 41 S, and the fuel pressurized by the plunger is sent to the rail 42 . [0038] The rail 42 stores the fuel, which is fed pressingly from the supply pump 41 , at high pressure. The rail 42 is a metal pipe shaped substantially cylindrically. The rail 42 has a limiter valve and is designed so as to prevent pressure of the fuel from exceeding a predetermined value. A plurality of injection pipes 44 are attached to the rail 42 so as to guide the fuel to the injectors 43 . [0039] The injectors 43 inject suitably the fuel supplied from the rail 42 . Each of the injectors 43 is attached to the corresponding cylinder head 12 so that a tip of the injector 43 having an injection port is projected into the operation chamber W. The injector 43 has an armature driven by a piezo element or a solenoid for example, and can realize various injection patterns by controlling timing and term of the driving. [0040] Next, an explanation will be given on an operation mode of the diesel engine 100 in brief referring to FIG. 3 . The diesel engine 100 is a 4-cycle engine in which an intake stroke, a compression stroke, an expansion stroke and an exhaust stroke are completed while the crankshaft 14 is rotated two times. [0041] In the intake stroke, an intake valve 12 Iv is opened and the piston 13 is slid downward (oppositely to the cylinder head 12 ) so as to suck air into the operation chamber W. As the above, in the diesel engine 100 , since the inlet port of the intake port 12 Ip is provided in the upper surface of the cylinder head 12 , the air flows from an upper side to a lower side of the cylinder head 12 . [0042] In the compression stroke, the intake valve 12 Iv is closed and the piston 13 is slid upward (toward the cylinder head 12 ) so as to compress the air in the operation chamber W. Since the intake port 12 Ip is closed by the intake valve 12 Iv, the air in the operation chamber W does not flow reversely. [0043] Subsequently, the fuel is injected from the injector 43 to the air whose temperature and pressure are increased by the compression. Then, the fuel is dispersed and evaporated in a combustion chamber C provided in an upper surface of the piston 13 , and mixed with the air and burnt. Accordingly, the diesel engine 100 shifts to the expansion stroke in which the piston 13 is slid downward again. [0044] In the expansion stroke, the piston 13 is pushed downward (oppositely to the cylinder head 12 ) with expansion energy generated by combustion of fuel. Flame formed in the combustion chamber C and the operation chamber W expands air so as to push down the piston 13 . In the expansion stroke, rotation torque is applied from the piston 13 via the connecting rod 15 to the crankshaft 14 . At this time, since kinetic energy is conserved by a flywheel 16 attached to the crankshaft 14 , the rotation of the crankshaft 14 is maintained (see FIG. 2 ). Accordingly, the diesel engine 100 shifts to the exhaust stroke. [0045] In the exhaust stroke, an exhaust valve 12 Ev is opened and the piston 13 is slid upward (toward the cylinder head 12 ) so as to push out the burnt gas in the operation chamber W as the exhaust gas. As the above, in the diesel engine 100 , since the outlet hole of the exhaust port 12 Ep is provided in the side surface of the cylinder head 12 , the exhaust gas flows sideways from the lower side of the cylinder head 12 . [0046] Accordingly, the diesel engine 100 completes the intake stroke, the compression stroke, the expansion stroke and the exhaust stroke while the crankshaft 14 is rotated two times. By continuing the strokes in all the operation chambers W, the diesel engine 100 can be driven continuously. [0047] An explanation will be given on a structure of the diesel engine 100 in detail, and effect of the structure will be described. [0048] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the state in which the rail 42 and the injector 43 are attached to the cylinder head 12 . FIG. 5 is a drawing viewed from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 4 , and FIG. 6 is a drawing viewed from a direction of an arrow Y in FIG. 4 . [0049] The rail 42 is fixed to a bracket 12 b, provided in a side surface of the cylinder head 12 , with a bolt B 1 . The bracket 12 b is provided in not the side surface to which the exhaust manifold 31 is attached but the side surface opposite thereto. As the above, in the diesel engine 100 , since the intake manifold 22 is attached to the upper surface of the cylinder head 12 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ), the bracket 12 b can be provided in the side surface to which the exhaust manifold 31 is not attached. [0050] The injector 43 is fixed by a holder 45 while being inserted into an injector hole of the cylinder head 12 . The holder 45 is fixed with a bolt B 2 while a hanging part of the holder 45 pinches a body of the injector 43 and a fulcrum part of the holder 45 contacts a head bolt Bh. Since the bolt B 2 is attached via a spherical washer, an attachment posture of the injector 43 is stable. [0051] Accordingly, the rail 42 and the injector 43 are fixed to the cylinder head 12 . [0052] Then, vibration generated by operation of the diesel engine 100 is transmitted to the rail 42 and the injector 43 substantially equally. The injection pipe 44 connecting the rail 42 to the injector 43 is vibrated integrally with them. [0053] For these reasons, in the diesel engine 100 , since a vibration source of the rail 42 and a vibration source of the injector 43 are the cylinder head 12 , breakage of the injection pipe 44 and looseness of attachment nuts 44 N of the injection pipe 44 can be prevented. [0054] In the configuration in which the intake manifold 22 is attached to the upper surface of the cylinder head 12 like the diesel engine 100 , it is important to fix the rail 42 to not the side surface to which the exhaust manifold 31 is attached but the side surface opposite thereto. That is because any part is not heated so that safety is improved and the structure supporting the rail 42 is simplified. This space which is easy to become a dead space can be used effectively. [0055] Next, an attachment posture of the rail 42 is limited. [0056] Generally, the cylinder head 12 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. Then, when the cylinder head 12 is heated by the operation of the diesel engine 100 , the cylinder head 12 is expanded greatly along a lengthwise direction L. On the other hand, the rail 42 is shaped substantially cylindrically. In the diesel engine 100 , the bracket 12 b is provided so as to make an axis Ac of the rail 42 and the lengthwise direction L of the cylinder head 12 in parallel to each other. [0057] Accordingly, the rail 42 is fixed while the axis Ac thereof is in parallel to the lengthwise direction L of the cylinder head 12 . Then, load applied to the rail 42 by thermal expansion of the cylinder head 12 acts along the axis Ac of the rail 42 . [0058] For these reasons, in the diesel engine 100 , since any bending stress is not generated on the rail 42 even if the cylinder head 12 is heat-expanded, the breakage of the injection pipe 44 and the looseness of the attachment nuts 44 N of the injection pipe 44 can be prevented. [0059] In the diesel engine 100 , the bracket 12 b is provided at a low position in a height direction H of the cylinder head 12 . That is because of the consideration for enabling fuel temperature to be set to a suitable value quickly at the time of starting the engine in the cold district. [0060] Accordingly, the rail 42 is supported by the bracket 12 b provided at the low position in the height direction H of the cylinder head 12 . Then, heat generated in the operation chamber W can be transmitted quickly to the rail 42 and fuel in the rail 42 can be heated. [0061] For these reasons, in the diesel engine 100 , since the heat is transmitted suitably from the cylinder head 12 to the rail 42 , the fuel temperature can be set to the suitable value quickly at the time of starting the engine in the cold district. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY [0062] The present invention can be used for an art of a diesel engine. Description of Notations [0000] 100 diesel engine 1 engine main part 11 cylinder block 12 cylinder head 13 piston 14 crankshaft 2 intake path 3 exhaust path 31 exhaust manifold 4 common rail system 41 supply pump 42 rail 43 injector 44 injection pipe 44 N attachment nut 45 holder Ac axis Bh head bolt B 1 bolt B 2 bolt L lengthwise direction H height direction
This diesel engine is provided with pistons which slide, moving to and from the cylinder head, and which converts the sliding motion of the pistons into rotational motion of a crankshaft. This diesel engine is further provided with a supply pump which is driven by rotation of the crankshaft, a rail which stores fuel pumped from the supply pump, and injectors which inject the fuel supplied from the rail into the combustion chambers formed in the pistons, wherein the rail and the injectors are fixed to the cylinder head.
5
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/825,170, filed Sep. 11, 2006, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to Access Media Gateways (AGWs). More particularly, and not by way of limitation, the present invention is directed to a system and method for overload control between AGWs and the associated Media Gateway Controllers (MGC) in Next Generation Networks (NGNs). [0003] Abbreviations and Definitions [0004] a. AACC Adaptive Automatic Congestion Control [0005] b. AGW Access Media Gateway [0006] c. CS Call Server [0007] d. GOS Grade of Service [0008] e. ISUP ISDN User Part [0009] f. MSAN Multi Service Access Node (equivalent to and interchangeable with AGW) [0010] g. MGC Media Gateway Controller (equivalent to and interchangeable with CS) [0011] h. NGN Next Generation Network [0012] i. POTS Plain Old Telephone Service [0013] FIG. 1 a is a high-level block diagram of a Next Generation Network (NGN). The NGN typically contains multiple domains which are controlled by a single Call Server (CS) (also known as a Media Gateway Controller (MGC)). Call Servers are connected to each other and to call control nodes in peer networks. Call related signaling messages are exchanged and the Call Servers control gateway nodes. The gateway nodes served by these Call Servers provide bearer (transport) functionality for media streams corresponding to calls going on between subscribers. [0014] For the successful establishment of an end to end call, several nodes in 5 the access and the core network have to have enough spare processing resources to serve the call attempt. Numerous scenarios could be envisaged, such as televoting or disaster events, where certain nodes become the bottleneck in the network and therefore need to reject call requests in order to preserve their integrity and stable state. By increasing the load on a target node above its engineered capacity its throughput degrades significantly, moreover an extremely high offered load may cause the target node to restart. Hence signaling protocols have to be armed with load control functions, which ensure that the source node decreases its admission rate by rejecting calls in order to relieve the heavy load on the congested target node. [0015] Each Access Media Gateway (AGW) provides connection to the network for thousands of subscribers. Currently, simulations of a proposed European Telecommunications Standards Institute Notification Rate (ETSI_NR) control have shown that control in the NGN can be dependent on a choice of algorithm used by a control adaptor and setting of control parameters. It has been shown that inappropriate choices can lead to premature termination of control during times of overload. Overloads can be caused by a moderate increase across all the associated AGWs at the same time or by an increase on a smaller subset of the AGWs. Normally, an AGW initiates new calls by sending off-hook notification events to a Call Server (equivalent to a Media Gateway Controller and will be interchangeable with MGC hereinafter. [0016] FIG. 1 b illustrates a high level block diagram of an overload control mechanism between an MGC and AGW. The ETSI draft mentioned above (ETSI_NR) describes an overload control mechanism between the MGCs and the AGWs to protect the MGCs from becoming overloaded during the previously described mass call events. FIG. 1 b illustrates a high-level functional block diagram according to ETSI_NR. ETSI_NR proposes that leaky bucket restrictors be applied at the AGWs to throttle originating POTS call attempts towards the MGCs. A so-called LoadLevel supervision function is implemented in the MGC which periodically measures its load state. If the LoadLevel reaches a critical value, the MGC initiates the originating call restriction mechanism at the AGWs. During periods of overload, the MGC periodically calculates a GlobalLeakRate based on the current LoadLevel. This GlobalLeakRate is then distributed among the AGWs based on their associated w i weights. The weight set is fixed and preconfigured in the MGC. This new leak rate value (notrat), calculated for each AGW using its preconfigured w weight, is sent to the gateway in a subsequent H.248 MODIFY command from that MGC. Notrat (Notification Rate) provides the rate of off-hook notifications from terminations in the NULL context that can be sent to the MGC by a given AGW. The AGW then sets the leak rate of its leaky bucket to the notrat rate received from the MGC and will use this leak rate to regulate the off-hook notifications. The initial value of the GlobalLeakRate, which is used when the overload is detected at the MGC, is a configuration parameter in the MGC called InitGlobalLeakRate. The value is set to a sufficiently low value to immediately relieve congestion at the MGC, and the calculated GlobalLeakRate is expected to adapt upwards gradually to ensure high utilization of the Media Gateway Controller. [0017] The mechanism described in the current ETSI draft may not provide appropriate protection of the Media Gateway Controllers in all cases. It is foreseen that—if the draft is implemented as currently specified—certain distributions of originating call attempts among the Access Media Gateways can fool the adaptation algorithm and temporarily render the overload control ineffective. [0018] Four main areas can be identified where the currently proposed control scheme has shortcomings: [0019] Failure to tackle focused overload from a group of nodes; [0020] Slow convergence of the control mechanism; [0021] No interoperability with overload control solutions protecting the Media Gateway Controller from other interfaces; and [0022] Termination of control. [0023] If a small group of AGWs (m) are responsible for an overload, then the m group of AGWs offer calls to the associated MGC at a rate determined by restrictors which are styled as “leaky bucket” restrictors (the leak rate of the restrictors are a weighted portion of the MGCs GlobalLeakRate). If the small group of AGWs are the only AGWs offering calls to the MGC while the remaining AGWs (n) offer no calls to the MGC and assuming that all AGWs are equally weighted (i.e., AGW weight, w i =1/(m+n)), then if the situation persists long enough the MGC GlobalLeakRate (G), may settle to G=(C/m)*(m+n), where C is the capacity of the MGC. Depending on the ratio of m and n, this can be many times more than the actual capacity of the MGC. Also each AGW regardless if it is offering calls to the MGC receives a leak rate of G*w i =C/m. [0024] If traffic demand subsequently increases on the non-loaded group of AGWs (n), then the rate of calls offered to the MGC by this group of AGWs will be limited to the rate determined by their leaky buckets and the MGC will become overloaded since the earlier active group m, together with the newly activated group n of the AGWs offer more traffic ((C/m)*(m+n)) than its engineered capacity of C. This state potentially renders the control ineffective for a period of time until a Control Adaptor adjusts the GlobalLeakRate appropriately. [0025] FIG. 2 is a high-level block diagram illustrating overloads of an MGC causing ineffective control at an MGC. If the load offered to an MGC is not distributed evenly, but e.g., group 206 of AGW 1 and AGW 2 are responsible for an overload, the GlobalLeakRate value will be increased by the Control Adaptor (see FIG. 2 ) far above the real call processing capacity of the MGC. In this scenario this pair of AGWs, group 206 , causing the overload will admit calls at a rate determined by their ‘leaky bucket,’ while other AGWs belonging to group 208 offer calls far below the leak rate they have received from the MGC. (Their leaky buckets do not restrict). If the traffic demand suddenly increases in the area served by group 208 of AGWs, then the nodes in group 208 start to offer calls at the rate determined by their leaky buckets and the MGC will get into overload causing the control to be ineffective for a considerable amount of time. For instance, the Media Gateway Controller can have four MSANs (AGWs) connected to it. Each MSAN has an equal weighting as each of them terminates the same number of subscriber lines. When group 206 of nodes want to offer higher calling rates than the capacity of the MGC, the MGC will detect overload, set the GlobalLeakRate to the InitGlobalLeakRate, and send ¼ of this GlobalLeakRate value to each of the four MSANs. [0026] The MGC starts to gradually increase the GlobalLeakRate value in order to increase the MGC utilization, and continues this process of increasing the GlobalLeakRate until the total incoming rate from the MSANs reaches C, the processing capacity of the Media Gateway Controller. Since it is assumed that only 2 of the four MSANs are responsible for the overload, the increase of the GlobalLeakRate continues until it reaches 2C. At this point, the MGC sends LeakRate=2*C/4=C/2 leak rate values to the MSANs, so the 2 MSANs (AGWs) in group 206 offer enough calls to saturate the Media Gateway Controller. If group 208 of nodes starts to offer traffic then they are also allowed to send C/2 each, therefore the total incoming rate will be 2 times C resulting in two times overload. This case is clearly different than when the overload initially occurs at the initiation of control, because initially the GlobalLeakRate value is initialized to a suitably low value, while in this case the overload will persist for a considerable amount of time until a downward adaptation of the GlobalLeakRate occurs. [0027] Another concern is whether the control can adapt fast enough to be able to follow the changes in the offered rate with reasonable speed. In case of a serious focused overload the global leak rate has to be increased to an extremely high level, e.g. if 10% of the AGWs generate the overload and the CS capacity is 1000 call/s then the global leak rate shall rise to 10000, and even with a quite large adaptation step (e.g. 10 call/ŝ2) it can take 1000 seconds to adapt to full utilization of the MGC, which is about 16 minutes! [0028] The above illustration might be an extreme example but minutes long adaptation times are still not impossible. This questions the adaptation ability of the whole ETSI_NR algorithm—in fact, what happens here is that the constant provisioned weighting system has a multiplicative effect that can slow down the adaptation in case of a focused overload. The Call Server will unnecessarily reject many calls for a long time period in case of a step overload which means a huge loss of revenue, especially in scenarios when the step overload is caused by e.g. tele-voting, typically with a premium call rate. On the other hand, if we increase the adaptation step then the control will oscillate. [0029] It is assumed that when the Call Server fails to allocate capacity for an originating call request it rejects the attempted request. The main purpose of overload control is to minimize the number of such rejects allowing the CS to maximize its throughput. In NGNs the Call Servers have to serve network initiated and access initiated call requests. Therefore if the CS becomes overloaded its own internal overload protection mechanism will reject both originating and incoming calls. Incoming call requests are initiated using the ISUP protocol from legacy POTS exchanges or enveloped in the SIP-I protocol from Call Servers, but other industry standard call control protocols like SIP or H.323 can also be used. As an example, the ISUP protocol utilizes its own overload control mechanism called Adaptive Automation Congestion Control (MCC). It is desirable to guarantee that in periods of overload, incoming and originating calls to get a configurable ratio of share in the admitted stream, therefore interoperability of overload control solutions (e.g. ETSI_NR and MCC) protecting the same node is crucial. The current ETSI_NR draft provides no solution to solve this interoperability problem. A GlobalLeakRate calculation algorithm is needed, which ensures that the GlobalLeakRate is updated in such a way that the incoming calls from POTS exchanges and other Call Servers can not squeeze out originating calls from the AGWs and vice versa when contending for the capacity of the CS. [0030] Finally, the existing solution fails to tackle the problem of termination of the control properly. Since the call admission control is not performed on the Call Server (CS), it is not known when calculating the leak rate if the leaky buckets at the MSANs (AGWs) are still restricting traffic, or if the overload event has ceased. ETSI_NR suggests simply using a timer. A ‘TerminationPendingTimer’ is started when the measured LoadLevel of the Call Server falls below the GoalLoadLevel. If the measured LoadLevel does not go above the GoalLoadLevel during the lifetime of this timer, the control will be switched off upon timer expiry. But a LoadLevel below the GoalLoadLevel does not necessarily mean that overload has ceased, as it is possible that the mechanism is over-restricting, so that the sources do not offer enough calls to the CS for overload to occur. If the control switches off while the leak rate is still adapting upwards and the overload is present, the CS will soon be overloaded again, and the control will be switched back on with IntialGlobalLeakRate which then can easily result in on-off oscillation of the control, and under utilization of the CS. The required value of the GlobalLeakRate (G) will be dependent upon m and n making the G difficult to estimate, although typically it will need to be significantly larger than C. Under these circumstances, the convergence time of the control to the CS (MGCs) GoalLoadLevel maybe prolonged, consequently making setting the value of TerminationPending timer difficult. Inappropriate choices for these parameters can exacerbate this situation even more and potentially lead to premature termination of the control during the overload. For instance, if a TerminationPending timer is set too short and the overload control in the MGC terminates prematurely, the MGC will see a couple of undesired sudden high surge of load (solid curved line). Also, the admitted rate of calls will be lowered many times to the InitGlobalLeakRate and the control will switch on and off again and again. The graph below illustrates this problem. [0031] In an ideal case, at the start of an overload, the MGC enters the state ‘Overloaded’ and starts adapting the GlobalLeakRate so as to move closer to the MGC's GoalLoadLevel. If the point is reached whereby the MGCs' LoadLevel has fallen below the GoalLoadLevel (which is highly likely in the focused overload case as the InitGlobalLeakRate will likely result in the control over-restricting), the MGC changes state to ‘TerminationPending’, and the MGC invokes the following behavior: [0032] a. if a TerminationPending timer (set when the MGC enters the Termination Pending state) expires, then state in the MGC is changed to ‘NotOverloaded’. Termination of throttling at an AGW is caused by the receipt of a negative Notification Rate (notrat) value.; and [0033] b. if a new terminating or outgoing call attempt is received, then the MGC proceeds with the call as normal. A Distribution Function in the MGC will calculate a current notrat value for that AGW (from the GlobalLeakRate) and send the current notrat value using an H.248 Modify command against the ROOT termination (unless the current notrat has already been sent to that AGW, in which case the current notrat is not sent). In order to minimize the number of H.248 transactions, the MGC may nest the Modify command within the same H.248 transaction as that used to progress the call. The Distribution Function notes the notrat value sent to that AGW. [0034] c. the Control Adaptor continues to monitor the MGC LoadLevel, the Off Hook arrival rate and periodically updates the GlobalLeakRate, subject to the following two conditions: 1. the MGC is not exceeding the MaxGlobalLeakRate and 2. if the previous change to the GlobalLeakRate was an increase and the current Off Hook arrival rate is not greater than the previous Off Hook arrival rate, revert to the GlobalLeakRate in force before the previous change. [0037] d. if the ControlAdaptor detects that the LoadLevel exceeds the GoalLoadLevel, the MGC will move back to the ‘Overloaded’ state. [0038] These two restrictions on the growth of the GlobalLeakRate are required in order to prevent the notrat values sent to the restrictors from rising to an extent that would be problematic in the event of a sudden increase in the off-hook rate. [0039] It would be advantageous to have a system and method for detecting the end of overload that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. The present invention provides such a system and method. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0040] The ETSI_NR drafted mechanism is extended with complementary solutions with which the mechanism will be able to successfully cope with some not yet handled network events. [0041] Certain traffic cases (focused overload from a group of access gateways) are identified which mislead the adaptation method of the current solution, rendering the control temporarily ineffective. In the present invention, some autonomy is given to the Access Media Gateways to control their leak rates, to improve the overall network behavior considerably. [0042] A Call Server is provided with the capability to monitor an offered rate of incoming calls (off-hook events) per AGW. Using this additional information the calculated GlobalLeakRate can be distributed between the AGWs in proportion to the traffic rate they generate instead of using a preconfigured weight set as in current methods. This new feature ensures that the currently available capacity of the Call Server, which is represented by the actual value of the GlobalLeakRate, is allocated to those AGWs which have traffic to offer. In this way it takes much less time for the MGC to adapt to a GlobalLeakRate value high enough to efficiently utilize the Call Server. [0043] A leak rate calculation method is used to calculate the GlobalLeakRate control parameter of the ETSI_NR restrictor based on the originating POTS call rejection rate at an overloaded MGC (Call Server). The leak rate calculation is based on the same POTS call rejection rate, which is used by the leak rate calculation of the MCC mechanism, and to use the same rate adaptation mechanism. In one particular embodiment of the present invention, the calculation is based on bringing the call reject rate close to a configurable low target reject level. This way the originating POTS call restriction mechanism interoperates well together with the ISUP AACC mechanism. [0044] A mechanism is disclosed with which an MGC is able to identify the end of the overload event with a greater degree of confidence and a mechanism is disclosed for use in an AGWs to ensure that the AGWs act properly if they are prematurely instructed to stop the control. [0045] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention so that those skilled in the art may better understand the detailed description of the invention that follows. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described hereinafter that form the subject of the claims of the invention. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the conception and the specific embodiment disclosed as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention in its broadest form. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0046] In the following section, the invention will be described with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures, in which: [0047] FIG. 1 a depicts a high-level block diagram of a Next Generation Network; [0048] FIG. 1 b illustrates an overload control mechanism between an MGC and AGW; [0049] FIG. 2 is a high-level block diagram illustrating overloads of an MGC causing ineffective control; [0050] FIG. 3 a illustrates the state transition diagram of a leak rate calculation method in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; [0051] FIG. 3 b depicts a leak rate calculation method in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; [0052] FIG. 4 illustrates a high-level block diagram of the interaction between an AGW (also MSAN) and a media gateway controller (also CS) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0053] FIG. 5 depicts a signaling diagram in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; [0054] FIG. 6 illustrates a high-level flow diagram of a process in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and [0055] FIG. 7 depicts a graph illustrating the modified control behavior according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0056] FIGS. 3 through 7 , discussed below, and the various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present invention in this patent document are by way of illustration only and should not be construed in any way to limit the scope of the invention. [0057] A call server typically updates leak rate value at the AGWs by sending the leak rate value in the ETSI NotificationRate (ETSI_NR) package. “Package” defines additional properties, events, signals and statistics that may occur on H.248 Terminations. In the present invention, even though when first receiving it, AGWs immediately set their leak rate to the value included in the notrat property of the ETSI_NR package received from the call server, but later AGWs rather use the received notrat value as the maximum leak rate (L_max) to be reached if the bucket restricts traffic, and the AGWs continuously and autonomously adapt the rate of their leaky bucket restrictor taking also into account the rate of offered calls (off-hooks) from the connected subscribers. [0058] The current leak rate of the bucket at the i th AGW is denoted by L i . The i th AGW measures the incoming call attempt rate I i periodically and compare it to the L i leak rate set for the leaky bucket restrictor. If (I i >L i and L i *(1+R)<=L_max, where 0<R<1 is a configurable parameter then the bucket restricts and the leak rate should be increased to L i *(1+R). [0059] If I i /(1+R)<L i then the leaky bucket currently does not restrict at all and L i should be decreased to L i =I i *(1+R) in order to avoid the leak rate being stuck at a too high level, which would cause problems if the traffic distribution among the AGWs changes significantly. Each individual AGW uses the above detailed calculation method to update its leak rate value periodically, with T_AGW periodicity. [0060] Clearly, the AGW shall only increase the leak rate if the bucket rejects calls. In such a case the AGW will gradually increase L i until it reaches the leak rate limit L_max that the MGC (CS) sent for the very last time. With this scheme, increasing the leak rate unnecessarily can be avoided. So a global sudden step change in the offered rate will be seen at the MGC as a gradual increase, giving time for a Control Adaptor of the MGC to recalculate the appropriate level of restriction. Automatically Obtaining a Weight Set Used for Distributing the GlobalLeakRate Among AGWs [0061] The value of the L i leak rate is calculated by the MGC as L i =GlobalLeakRate*w i . Setting w i configuration variables can be problematic, because at the time of configuration it may be difficult to predict the distribution of offered rates among the AGWs (it is not necessarily in proportion with the number of lines). Instead of fixed w i weights the leak rates could be calculated automatically. When overload occurs, the MGC measures the real incoming call rate from the different AGWs. It then splits the GlobalLeakRate in proportion to the share of the i th AGW in the total incoming traffic (I). This way the i th AGW would get L i =I i /I*GlobalLeakRate as the leak rate. In this way the control converges quicker to a state when none of the AGWs is unnecessarily over-restricted, and the capacity of the MGC is efficiently utilized. With this method, the AGW which is not sending any traffic (off-hook notification) in a measurement period would get a w i weight of zero, meaning that it gets a notrat value of zero. In order not to completely expel such an AGW from offering traffic in the future, any AGW, even if its most recently received notrat is zero, is allowed to send a single off-hook notification to the MGC (or CS). In this single off-hook notification the AGW is allowed to include an additional parameter, its ‘Required off-hook rate’. Such an off-hook signals to the MGC that this previously inactive AGW is now active, and it is then taken into account when calculating the notrat values next time. If the optional parameter ‘Required off-hook rate’ is included by the AGW, the MGC uses this number in place of I i for this particular AGW for the next notrat calculation. Interoperability With Other Overload Control Mechanisms Protecting the Same Node [0062] FIG. 3 illustrates a leak rate calculation method in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It is important to ensure interoperability of the ETSI_NR mechanism controlling the originating POTS calls and the overload control mechanism that is applied between the Call Servers and legacy POTS exchanges. In one embodiment of the AACC overload control algorithm the rejection rate of the target node is set at a predetermined low rate. Similarly, it is possible to calculate the GlobalLeakRate value using the rejection rate as a feedback for the ETSI_NR control. A possible way to achieve the desired behavior is to implement a GlobalLeakRate calculation method as illustrated with a state machine in FIG. 3 . [0063] A timer T_M is started (step 302 ) denoting the time window for accumulating rejected call attempts. The number of rejected call attempts (step 304 ) is counted in a ‘Measurement State’. When timer T_M (time window for accumulating rejected call attempts) expires (step 306 ), RejectRate is calculated using RejectRate=Rejects/T_M (step 310 ) and compared to a predefined target reject rate (TargetOL) (step 312 ) also known as overload goal rate. If RejectRate exceeds the predefined target, the GlobalLeakRate will be decreased (step 316 ) and if RejectRate does not exceed the target, it will be increased (step 314 ). This way it is guaranteed that the rejection rate will converge to the desired target reject rate (TargetOL). Then ‘Wait State’ is entered starting timer T_W (step 318 ) letting time until the expiry of time T_W (step 320 ) for the latest GlobalLeakRate adjustement to take its effect. Control terminates if the end of overload is detected. Detection can be performed by means of watching the trend of the incoming traffic as described later. If the call reject rate is below the target reject rate, the leak rate is increased by a constant value (AdditionConst) used to fine tune the speed of the leak rate adaptation, otherwise it is decreased proportionally to the difference between the target reject rate (TargetOL) and the measured RejectRate. MaxAdjustment is a configuration parameter in a range 0<MaxAdjustment<=1, used to determine the maximum allowed change of the GlobalLeakRate in a single adaptation step. The above described algorithm is used for GlobalLeakRate calculation in the ‘Overloaded’ state. Leak rate adjustment may be stated as follows: IF(RejectRate>=TargetOL) Leakr:=Leakr−min(Coeff*(RejectRate−TargetOL), Leakr*MaxAdjustment) IF(RejectRate<TargetOL), Leakr=Leakr+AdditionConst [0068] In the ‘Termination Pending’ state the same GlobalLeakRate setting algorithm applies to the one described in the previous section, except that the GlobalLeakRate is only increased further if the current incoming call arrival (off-hook) rate from the AGWs is greater that the arrival rate measured in the previous T_M interval. Otherwise the GlobalLeakRate reverts to its previous value. [0069] The AACC leak rate calculation algorithm typically operates on source nodes, which use the calculation to determine the amount of traffic they can send towards the target without overloading the target. In this embodiment, the calculation of the preferred amount of offered traffic is performed on the overloaded target node, and the allowable total load is then distributed between the sources. [0070] Use of the same leak rate calculation algorithm for calculating the preferred amount of load on all interfaces if a node can be overloaded over multiple different interfaces (presented here in the context of ETSI_NR and AACC) is easy to be generalized. In the context of NGN, ETSI_NR and MCC, a CS can receive new (terminating or in-coming) calls from peer call servers and it can also receive new (originating) calls from dependent AGWs. The same calculation method is used for obtaining the rate of calls that can be served by the call server over all the interfaces, to ensure that capacity of the call server is shared fairly over all its interfaces. In the general context, the use of the same algorithm over multiple interfaces works regardless of the specifics of adaptation mechanism used by a given MCC implementation, and it works also if the node is not an MGC but any network node, which receives capacity demanding requests over multiple interfaces of different types. [0071] FIG. 4 illustrates a high-level block diagram of the interaction between an AGW (also MSAN) and a media gateway controller (also CS) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Off-hook signal 402 is received by AGW 401 and passed to Application 404 which is the front half of a monitoring function. Whenever a new call is initiated by the subscriber (off-hook 402 ), application 404 checks the restrictor function to determine whether the newly received off-hook is subject to throttling or not. If it is rejected by the leaky bucket restrictor (not shown), the subscriber is notified and if the new call passes the restriction check, the call is forwarded as a new call attempt (off-hook notification) towards the call server. Application 404 then incorporates off-hook signal 402 into H.248 communication with Application 408 the second half of the monitoring function in MGC 407 . Application 408 utilizes notification counter 414 to communicate with logic in distribution function 415 which includes logic 416 for distributing the capacity of MGC 407 among all the connected AGWs. Notification counter is used for determining the rate of off-hook events associated with all the different AGWs. [0072] Application 408 further notifies control adaptor 409 via traffic supervisor 410 to determine a current GlobalLeakRate, using the off-hook notification in conjunction with GlobalLeakRate calculation function 412 . The calculated GlobalLeakRate 419 is sent to distribution functionality 415 in which the off-hook count for AGW 401 and the calculated GlobalLeakRate is used to determine whether the Notification Rate for AGW 401 should be changed. If notrat 418 is changed, that value is sent to AGW restrictor and the current notrat is ceased to be used and the new value of notrat 418 is installed as the current upper bound in the Autonomous adaptation function 420 . The Autonomous adaptation function determines the leak rate of the leaky bucket restrictor running in the AGW using the measured off-hook rate and this upper bound as input to the autonomous leak rate calculation method. Termination of restriction function 422 is responsible for detecting if the AGW is instructed prematurely by the MGC to terminate the leaky bucket restrictor. [0073] FIG. 5 depicts a signaling diagram in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. If necessary, an AGW recalculates a leak rate using the received notrat and the measured rate of calls (I i ). A subscriber equipment sends an off-hook signal to the AGW initiating a new call. Receipt of off-hook signal 502 , causes a restriction function in the AGW to determine whether or not the off-hook 502 can be accepted or needs to be rejected because it exceeds the current rate (L i ) of the leaky bucket restrictor running in the AGW. If the determination is that off-hook 502 needs to be rejected in the AGW, off-hook signal 502 is refused in reject signal 504 to the subscriber equipment. If off-hook 502 is accepted, off hook notification 506 is sent to MGC 1 , which adds off-hook notification 506 to the current total of notifications from this AGW and to the current total of notifications from all other AGWs connected to MGC 1 . [0074] The GlobalLeakRate in MGC 1 is updated taking into consideration all the current off-hook notifications received in a latest measurement period. Using the GlobalLeakRate, the notification rate (notrat) is recalculated and the current overload state is updated. Off-hook 502 is transmitted as a new call to MGC 2 . [0075] MGC 1 then determines whether to update the Notification Rate (notrat) according to whether the current notrat differs from the one sent previously to the AGW. If determination is made to update, then a new notrat 510 is sent to the AGW. If the determination is made that an update is not required, the AGW is notified of the acceptance of the call 512 . [0076] It is not easy to find a reasonable value for the MaxGlobalLeakRate configuration parameter on the MGC (also call server), since the actual GlobalLeakRate can easily go above the real processing capacity of the MGC to maximize the incoming off-hook rate. If the MaxGlobalLeakRate is underestimated, it is possible that the control switches off before the GlobalLeakRate reaches an equilibrium point, either because the upwards adaptation is too slow or because the GlobalLeakRate cannot be increased further above MaxGlobalLeakRate. In order to avoid premature termination of the control, the AGWs do not deactivate the leaky bucket immediately when receiving the ‘−1’ value (any negative notrat value indicates that the MGC is not overloaded any more and the AGW (MSAN) is instructed to terminate the leaky bucket restriction from the MGC, but continue using the leaky bucket if it rejects calls. The leak rate L i is adapted autonomously (as described above) until the first measurement period is encountered without any call rejects on the AGW. If the control was too restrictive when it was stopped by signaling a negative notrat value towards the AGWs, the AGWs start a gradual autonomous upward adaptation of the L i leak rates. This may result in too much traffic being forwarded towards the CS, overloading it again but only gradually and not suddenly as happens in the prior-art solution. [0077] FIG. 6 illustrates a high-level flow diagram of a process in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 must be considered in conjunction with FIG. 3 as the process for calculating the overload state and the corresponding GlobalLeakRate in the MGC (or CS) occurs in parallel with the receipt and processing of the off-hook signals. The process in the AGW begins with a User Equipment connected to a Next Generation Network going off-hook (step 602 ). The off-hook signal is transmitted from the UE to an AGW (or MSAN). Upon receipt of the off-hook signal, a monitoring function in the AGW detects the off-hook signal. The AGW is capable of supporting thousands of subscribing User Equipment terminals and the monitoring function detects each connected(ing) UE. The off-hook events together with the notrat value are used to calculate the restriction rate (L i ) (step 604 ). Based on the leaky bucket restrictor using a current restriction rate, it is determined whether the new call is acceptable or not (step 606 ). If the new call is not acceptable, the request is rejected (step 608 ). If the new call is acceptable, the off-hook notification is transmitted (step 610 ) to the MGC for processing. The MGC uses it for determining the rate of off-hook events associated with all the different AGWs. [0078] The MGC is monitoring the MGC load (LoadLevel) (step 612 ) independent of the process in the AGW and independent of other processes like call handling and GlobalLeakRate calculation running in the MGC. MGC calculates a weighting factor for each AGW connected to the MGC using the per AGW off-hook counters described earlier (step 614 ). The weighting factor includes the number of new off-hook events that are received in predetermined, subsequent time periods from all the different AGWs. In the instance of a passive AGW the weighting factor of the AGW would be designated by the MGC as zero. If the passive MSAN sends a call to the call server, the call serves to notify the call server that the passive MSAN is now active. This causes the allowed leak rates to all the active AGWs to be recalculated and redistributed. If the optional parameter ‘Required off-hook rate’ is included by the MSAN, the MGC uses this number in place of I i for this particular MSAN for the notrat calculation. If the MGC is in ‘Overloaded’ state or in ‘Termination pending’ state the GlobalLeakRate is calculated (step 615 ). [0079] Whenever a reply is sent to the gateway for an off-hook, the reply is checked to see if a new notrat needs to be sent to the AGW (step 616 ). If an update is needed the notrat is included in the reply (step 618 ) and if an update is not needed, the notrat is not included in the reply (step 620 ). Termination of Control [0080] Termination of control is avoided by introducing an additional state ‘TrafficSupervision (see FIG. 4 , ref. 410 ), which is entered upon expiry of the TerminationPending timer. Before entering this state, the current value of the GlobalLeakRate shall be recorded. In this state the total incoming call rate generated by the connected AGWs is monitored in a configurable number of subsequent measurement periods. At the end of the last measurement period, the call rate per measurement period is checked to determine whether the incoming traffic has an increasing trend over the subsequent measurement periods. This can for example be done by using a simple linear regression. If the trend is increasing the monitoring of the incoming call rate in subsequent measurement periods is repeated. If the trend is not increasing, the control is terminated on the MGC side as well. Should the measured LoadLevel of MGC pass the GoalLoadLevel while in state ‘TrafficSupervision’, the control goes back to ‘Overloaded’ state, but instead of using lnitGlobalLeakRate as the leak rate distributed towards the AGWs, the GlobalLeakRate is used which was valid and recorded when entering the ‘TrafficSupervision’ state. [0081] FIG. 7 depicts a graph illustrating the modified control behavior according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In spite of a period of prolonged high offered rate, the graph indicates that the admitted rate is not oscillating, but it steadily increases towards the GoalLoadLevel. There are no sudden surges in the admitted rate, the control terminates only when the period of overload is indeed over. Whenever it is detected that the overload is not yet over the GlobalLeakRate is reinstated to its previously calculated value instead of reverting back to the lnitGlobalLeakRate. Applicability of the Methods [0082] Multiple building blocks are disclosed, which can be applied together to achieve a robust overload control solution. However, depending on the networking scenario applying only a subset of the methods may be sufficient. For example, if in the networking scenario to be considered, the occurrence of focused overload as described above is not likely, or the MGC has relatively small capacity and the slow adaptation of the GlobalLeakRate is not a problem, distribution of the GlobalLeakRate according to a preconfigured weight set may suffice, and the technique described previously for dynamically obtaining the weight set can be switched off. Another example of an optional feature can be the introduction of the ‘TrafficSupervision’ state. If the utilization level resulting from the lnitGlobalLeakRate is considered to be high enough by the network operator, or the re-occurrence of the overload after autonomous upward adaptation of the leak rates in the AGWs is considered to be a rare event then implementation of the additional ‘TrafficSupervision’ state is not needed. [0083] The solution described here in the context of ETSI_NR is not in any way limited to the particular case of ETSI_NR. It is applicable in all overload control scenarios when a network entity is responsible for calculating the total traffic load it can sustain from its peer dependent entities, and it uses a protocol to inform its peers about this sustainable traffic load by allocating fractions of this total load to these peer entities. [0084] 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 wide range of applications. Accordingly, the scope of patented subject matter should not be limited to any of the specific exemplary teachings discussed above, but is instead defined by the following claims.
A Call Server in a network is able to monitor an offered rate of incoming calls per Access Gateway (AGW). A calculated GlobalLeakRate can be distributed between the AGWs in proportion to the traffic rate they offer. A leak rate calculation method is used to calculate the GlobalLeakRate control parameter of the ETSI NR restrictor at an overloaded Control Server The leak rate calculation is based on the POTS call rejection rate. In one particular embodiment of the present invention, the calculation is based on bringing the call reject rate close to a configurable low target reject level. An MGC is able to identify the end of an overload event with a greater degree of confidence and an AGW is able respond appropriately if the AGW is prematurely instructed to stop the control.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a coding apparatus in which a code amount for length fixing is calculated during variable length coding. 2. Related Background Art In a conventional method of highly efficiently coding image data, the image data is divided into a small block of i×j pixels, a small block is orthogonally transformed, (e.g., two-dimensional discrete cosine transformation (DCT)), the orthogonally transformed coefficients are quantized while considering the human visual sense characteristics, and the quantized coefficients are transformed into a variable length code (e.g., a Huffman code which is a combination of a run length of 0 coefficients and amplitudes of significant coefficients). In recording variable length coded data in a VTR or the like, k small blocks (k≧1, integer) are coded so as to match a record or transmission rate, and the code amount after coding is controlled to be R K or smaller. FIG. 1 shows a conventional coding apparatus which performs such a code amount control. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1300 represents an input terminal for image data to be orthogonally transformed, reference numerals 1302 0 to 1302 N-1 represent a table number of each quantization table or an input terminal for a quantization step, reference numeral 1304 represents a FIFO for delaying input image data by a time required for determining a quantization table by which the input image data is quantized. Reference numerals 1306 0 to 1306 N-1 represent a quantization circuit for quantizing orthogonally transformed image data, reference numerals 1308 0 to 1308 N-1 represent a code length generation circuit for generating a code length of image data quantized and variable-length coded, reference numerals 1310 0 to 1310 N-1 represent an adder circuit for adding code lengths, and reference numerals 1312 0 to 1312 N-1 represent a latch circuit for latching a code length added each time a code is generated. Reference numeral 1314 represents a selection circuit which selects, from N code amounts obtained through variable length coding of k small blocks by N quantization tables, the code amount nearest to a desired amount R k , and outputs a corresponding quantization table Q n or its quantization table number n (0≦n≦N-1) from an output terminal 1318. Reference numeral 1316 represents an output terminal of delayed image data from FIFO 1304. The operation of the coding apparatus structured as above will be described. Image data is divided into small blocks. Each small block is orthogonally transformed (e.g., two-dimensional DCT), and the transformed image data is applied to the input terminal 1300. The quantization circuits 1306 0 to 1306 N-1 divide two-dimensionally DCT image data of each small block into M areas in the range from low to high frequencies, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, and quantize at a predetermined step size which becomes coarse from the area 0 to area N-1 toward the high frequency range while considering the human visual sense characteristics, for example, as shown in FIG. 3. The quantization circuit 1306 0 is supplied with a quantization table Q 0 from the input terminal 1302 0 , and quantizes DCTed image data of a small block, at a step size of 1/16 for the area 0, 1/16 for the area 1, . . . , and 1/64 for the area M-1, in accordance with the quantization table Q 0 . The image data of the small block quantized by the quantization circuit 1306 0 using the quantization table Q 0 is supplied to the code length generation circuit 1308 0 . The code length generation circuit 1308 0 generates a code length of a variable length code suitable for the quantized image data and supplies it to the adder circuit 1310 0 . The variable length code is, for example, a two-dimensional Huffman code which is a combination of a run length of 0 values of quantized image data and significant values. The adder circuit 1310 0 is supplied with a code length from the code length generation circuit 1308 0 and with a cumulative value of past code lengths from the latch circuit 1312 0 , and adds the two values, the result being supplied to the latch circuit 1312 0 . The latch circuit 1312 0 latches the added value from the adder circuit 1310 0 and supplies it to the adder circuit 1310 0 and also to the selection circuit 1314. The value latched in the latch circuit 1312 0 is reset to "0" each time a set of k small blocks as the length fixing unit has been processed. Similar to the above, the quantization circuits 1306 1 to 1306 N-1 quantize orthogonally transformed image data by using quantization tables Q 1 to Q N-1 , and the code length generation circuits 1308 1 to 1308 N-1 , adder circuits 1310 1 to 1310 N-1 , and latch circuits 1312 1 to 1312 N-1 operate in the similar manner as above for the quantized image data. Each latch circuit 1312 1 to 1312 N-1 is reset to "0" at a similar timing in the unit of k small blocks. In this manner, the latch circuit 1312 0 to 1312 N-1 calculate code amounts RQ 0 to RQ N-1 of codes of the orthogonally transformed k small blocks quantized by using the quantization tables Q 0 to Q N-1 . The selection circuit 1314 is supplied with N code amounts RQ 0 , RQ 1 , . . . , RQ N-1 for each set of k small blocks from the latch circuits 1312 0 , 1312 1 , . . . , 1312 N-1 . The selection circuit 1314 selects, from these N code amounts, the largest RQ n satisfying R QN ≦R K which is determined to be the code amount of the fixed length code, and outputs a corresponding quantization table Q n or its quantization table number n (0≦n≦N-1) from the output terminal 1318. FIFO 1304 delays orthogonally transformed image data by a time required for the selection circuit 1314 to determine the quantization table. After the quantization table is determined, a circuit (not shown) quantizes the image data delayed by FIFO 1304 by using the determined quantization table Q n and codes the quantized image data into variable length codes to obtain desired codes. With the above conventional coding apparatus, however, in order to compress k small blocks into a desired code amount R K or smaller, N quantization circuits and N code amount calculating circuits corresponding in number to N quantization tables are required. The coding apparatus has therefore a bulky amount of hardware. Since k small blocks are quantized by using the same quantization table Q n , the code amount R QN after length fixing becomes too small depending upon image data, and a difference R K -R QN from the target code amount R K becomes too large. Therefore, an empty area is generated in a record or transmission area, which is not efficient and an image is degraded. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is a first object of the present invention to provide a coding apparatus capable of fixing a length of a code amount with less hardware. It is a second object of the present invention to provide a coding apparatus capable of efficiently using a record or transmission area by reducing an empty area and capable of improving an image quality, by reducing a difference R K -R QN from the target code amount R K as much as possible. According to a first embodiment of the invention, a coding apparatus comprises: a quantizer selected from a quantizer group and being used for coding inputted data; a first code amount calculation means for calculating a code amount of codes of the inputted data quantized by the quantizer; a prediction means for predicting a quantizer among the quantizer group capable of obtaining a target code amount, in accordance with the code amount calculated by the first code amount calculation means; the quantizer predicted by the prediction means for quantizing the inputted data; a second code amount calculation means for calculating a code amount of codes of the inputted data quantized by the predicted quantizer; and a comparator means for comparing the code amount calculated by the second code amount calculation means with the target code amount. According to a second embodiment of the invention, a coding apparatus comprises: a quantizer selected from a quantizer group and being used for coding inputted data; a first code amount calculation means for calculating a code amount of codes of the inputted data quantized by the quantizer; a first prediction means for predicting a first quantizer among the quantizer group capable of obtaining a target code amount, in accordance with the code amount calculated by the first code amount calculation means; the first quantizer predicted by the first prediction means for quantizing the inputted data; a second code amount calculation means for calculating a code amount of codes of the inputted data quantized by the first quantizer; and a second prediction means for predicting a second quantizer among the quantizer group capable of obtaining the target code amount, in accordance with the code amount calculated by the second code amount calculation means. In the first embodiment, quantization is performed by using a quantizer selected from a quantizer group, its code amount is calculated by the first code amount calculation means, a quantizer capable of obtaining the target code amount is predicted in accordance with the code amount, quantization is further performed by using the predicted quantizer, its code amount is calculated by the second code amount calculating means, and the calculated code amount and the target code amount are compared by the comparator means. In accordance with the comparison result, a quantizer used for length fixing is decided. According to the second embodiment, quantization is performed by using a quantizer selected from a quantizer group, its code amount is calculated by the first code amount calculation means, a first quantizer capable of obtaining the target code amount is predicted in accordance with the code amount, quantization is further performed by using the first quantizer, its code amount is calculated by the second code amount calculating means, and the second quantizer used for length fixing is decided. The above and other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a conventional coding apparatus. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an area of each quantization step used for quantizing orthogonally transformed (two-dimensional DCT) image data. FIG. 3 is a table illustrating examples of step sizes used by a quantization circuit. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 is a graph showing statistical values obtained by a quantization circuit. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a second embodiment of the invention. FIG. 7 is a graph showing statistical values obtained by a quantization circuit. FIGS. 8A to 8D are diagrams illustrating division of a quantization circuit group. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a third embodiment of the invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between a length fixing unit and an adaptive quantization circuit unit. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a modification of the third embodiment of the invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a fourth embodiment of the invention. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a modification of the fourth embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the first embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 4, reference numeral 100 represents an input terminal for image data orthogonally transformed (e.g., two-dimensional DCT). Reference numeral 102 represents an input terminal for a quantization table number (or quantization step size). Reference numeral 104 represents an input terminal for a mode signal (high definition image or standard definition image) of inputted image data. Reference numeral 106 represents a quantization circuit for quantizing orthogonally transformed image data. Reference numeral 108 represents a FIFO for delaying orthogonally transformed image data. Reference numeral 110 represents a code length generation circuit for generating a code length of variable length code of the quantized image data (for example, a two-dimensional Huffman code which is a combination of a run length of 0 data and a value of significant data). Reference numeral 112 represents an adder circuit for cumulatively adding a code length each time a code is generated. Reference numeral 114 represents a latch circuit for latching a cumulative code length. Reference numeral 116 represents a comparator circuit for comparing a quantization table prediction threshold value and a cumulative code length. Reference numeral 118 represents a counter circuit which counts down its value when the comparator circuit 116 detects that the cumulative value is in excess of the prediction threshold value. Reference numeral 120 represents a quantization table prediction value generation circuit for generating a quantization table prediction threshold value in accordance with the count of the counter circuit 118 and the mode signal. Reference numeral 122 represents a latch circuit for latching the predicted quantization table number. Reference numerals 124, 126, and 128 represent input/output terminals for FIFO 108, latch circuit 122, and mode signal. Reference numeral 130 represents a quantization circuit similar to the quantization circuit 106 for quantizing orthogonally transformed image data. Reference numeral 132 represents a FIFO similar to FIFO 108 for delaying orthogonally transformed image data. Reference numeral 134 represents a variable length code generation circuit which operates in the similar manner to the code length generation circuit 110. Reference numeral 136 represents an adder circuit similar to the adder circuit 112 for cumulatively adding a code length. Reference numeral 138 represents a latch circuit similar to the latch circuit 114 for latching the cumulative code length. Reference numeral 140 represents a latch circuit for latching the cumulative code length for each length fixing unit (k small blocks). Reference numeral 142 represents a comparator circuit for comparing the cumulative code length with a target code amount R K . Reference numeral 144 represents an input terminal for the target code amount R K . Reference numerals 148, 150, 154, and 156 represent output terminals for FIFO 132, comparator circuit 142, latch circuit 122, and mode signal of high definition (HD) or standard definition (SD). Next, the operation of the coding apparatus constructed as above will be described. Image data orthogonally transformed (two-dimensional DCT) for each small block is applied to the input terminal and supplied to the quantization circuit 106 and FIFO 108. The quantization circuit 106 is supplied with one quantization table Q p (0≦p≦N-1, e.g., p=N/2) among those quantization tables shown in FIGS. 8A to 8D, quantizes the orthogonally transformed image data in accordance with the supplied quantization table Q p , and supplies the results to the code length generation circuit 110. The code length generation circuit 110 generates a code length of variable length code (two-dimensional Huffman code) assigned in accordance with the quantized image data supplied from the quantization circuit 106, and supplies it to the adder circuit 112. The adder circuit 112 adds the code length supplied from the code length generation circuit 110 to the cumulative value of past code lengths supplied from the latch circuit 114, and supplies the added result to the latch circuit 114. The latch circuit 114 latches the added result supplied from the adder circuit 112, and supplies it to the comparator circuit 116 and adder circuit 112. The latch circuit 114 resets the latched value to "0" for each set of k small blocks which is a length fixing unit. The comparator circuit 116 compares the cumulative value of code lengths supplied from the latch circuit 114 with the value supplied from the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 120. The prediction threshold value supplied from the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 120 will be described. Image data of k small blocks is quantized by the quantization table Q p , and its code amount IQ p is calculated. At the same time, a quantization table Q n for fixed length is also calculated, this quantization table Q n having a maximum code amount RQ n satisfying R≦R K where R K is a target code amount and R is a coded code amount. A quantization table Q' n corresponding to the target code amount R K is obtained through interpolation of RQ n and RQ n+1 . (IQ p , Q' n ) values for various image data calculated in the above manner have a high correlation as shown in FIG. 5, and can be approximated to a curve Q' n =f(IQ p ). By using the curve Q' n =f(IQ p ) shown in FIG. 5, the quantization table Q n adaptive to length fixing is predicted in accordance with the code amount IQ p obtained by quantizing image data of k small blocks by using the quantization table Q p . If the code amount is S p (N-1) or smaller, a quantization table Q N-1 is predicated, . . . , and if the code amount is S p (N-2) or smaller, a quantization table Q N-2 is predicated. In this manner, a quantization table adaptive to length fixing is predicted. When the first block of k small blocks of the length fixing unit starts to be processed by the quantization circuit 106, the latch circuit 114 is reset to "0" and the counter circuit 118 is set to a count N-1. Upon reception of a value N-1 from the counter circuit 118, the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 120 supplies first a prediction threshold value S p (N-1) to the comparator circuit 116. The comparator circuit 116 compares the prediction threshold value S p (N-1) with the cumulative code length sequentially supplied from the latch circuit 114. If the cumulative value is S p (N-1) or smaller, a low level signal is supplied to the counter circuit 118, and if the cumulative value is in excess of S p (N-1), a high level signal is supplied to the counter circuit 118. If the signal supplied from the comparator circuit 116 is the high level signal, the counter circuit 118 counts down its count to N-2, and supplies it to the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 120. Upon reception of this value N-2, the circuit 120 supplies the next prediction threshold value S p (N-2) to the comparator circuit 116. Then, the comparator circuit 116 compares the cumulative value with S p (N-2). In this manner, the comparator circuit 116 compares the cumulative code amount supplied from the latch circuit 114 with the prediction threshold value supplied from the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 120, and outputs the low level signal if the cumulative value is the prediction threshold value or smaller, and the high level signal if it is in excess of the prediction threshold value, respectively to the counter circuit 118. If the low level signal is supplied from the comparator circuit 116, the counter circuit 118 holds the present counter value, and if the high level signal is supplied, it decrements by -1 (count down) and supplies the result to the quantization table threshold value generation circuit 120. Then, this circuit 120 generates the prediction threshold value corresponding to the count supplied from the counter circuit 118, and supplies it to the comparator circuit 116. After the image data of k-th small block is processed, the count n held in the counter circuit 118 represents the number of the predicted quantization table Q n . When the image data of k small blocks is processed, the latch circuit 122 latches the output value n of the counter circuit 118, and supplies it to the quantization circuit 130. FIFO 108 delays the orthogonally transformed image data by a time required for processing k small blocks. Thereafter, the latch circuit 114 and counter circuit 118 are again initialized to start processing the next k small blocks. Upon reception of the image data delayed by FIFO 108, the quantization circuit 130 quantizes the image data by using the quantization table Q n corresponding to the output value n of the latch circuit 122, and supplies the quantized image data to the code length generation circuit 134. Similar to the code length generation circuit 110, the code length generation circuit 134 generates a code length of a variable length encoded code (e.g, two-dimensional Huffman code) of the quantized image data, and supplies it to the adder circuit 136. Similar to the adder circuit 112, the adder circuit 136 adds the output value of the code length generation circuit 134 to the value supplied from the latch circuit 138, and supplies the added result to the latch circuit 138. The latch circuit 138 latches the added value supplied from the adder circuit 136, and supplies it to the adder circuit 136. The latch circuit 138 as well as the latch circuit 114 is reset to "0" when the first small block among k small blocks as the length fixing unit starts to be processed. When the k small blocks as the length fixing unit are processed, the cumulative value RQ n of code lengths latched in the latch circuit 138 is latched by the latch circuit 140 which in turn outputs it to the comparator circuit 142. The cumulative value RQ n is a code amount of the image data of k small blocks quantized by the predicated quantization table Q n and coded through length fixing. The comparator circuit 142 compares the cumulative code amount RQ n supplied from the latch circuit 140 with the target code amount R K supplied from the input terminal 144, and outputs a low level signal if RQ n ≦R K and the high level signal if RQ n >R K , respectively from the output terminal 150. FIFO 132 delays the orthogonally transformed (two-dimensional DCT) image data by a time required for processing k small blocks, and outputs it from the output terminal 148. Outputted from the output terminal 154 is the number n corresponding to the predicted quantization table Q n to be used for length fixing and supplied from the latch circuit 122. Inputted from the input terminal 104 is a mode signal indicating whether the inputted image data is for a high definition image (HD) or a standard definition image (SD). This mode signal is supplied to the quantization circuits 106 and 130 and quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 120. The quantization circuits 106 and 130 select either the quantization table for the high definition image (HD) or the quantization table for the standard definition image (SD) in accordance with the mode signal supplied from the input terminal 104. Similarly, the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 120 selects either the quantization table for the high definition image (HD) or the quantization table for the standard definition image (SD) in accordance with the mode signal supplied from the input terminal 104. The image data quantized by the quantization circuit 130 may be supplied to a succeeding stage coding circuit (not shown) to code it into a variable length code (e.g., two-dimensional Huffman code). According to the embodiment described above, inputted orthogonally transformed (two-dimensional DCT) image data is quantized by one quantization table Q p among those quantization tables, the code amount RQ p of variable length code is calculated, and a quantization table Q n adaptive to length fixing is predicted from the code amount RQ p . Next, the orthogonally transformed image data is quantized by using the predicted quantization table Q n to confirm whether the target code amount R K is satisfied. Accordingly, the amount of hardware can be reduced considerably as compared to the conventional apparatus shown in FIG. 1. In addition, the high definition image (HD) and standard definition image (SD) mode signals are provided to select corresponding ones of the quantization table and threshold value. Accordingly, the coding apparatus of this embodiment can be used for both the high definition image (HD) and standard definition image (SD). FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the second embodiment of this invention. Elements having similar functions to those of the first embodiment of FIG. 4 are represented by identical reference numerals. Only different points from the first embodiment will be described. Referring to FIG. 6, the latch circuit 138 sequentially supplies the cumulative code length of image data quantized by a quantization table predicted as described above and coded in variable length (e.g., two-dimensional Huffman code), to the comparator circuit 200 which compares the cumulative code length with the prediction threshold value supplied from a quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204. Next, three types of the operation of the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 will be described. (1) The counter circuit 202 sets its count to N-1 and supplies it to the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204, when the preceding circuit B completes the process of k small blocks as the length fixing unit, when the latch circuit 122 latches the number n corresponding to the predicted quantization table Q n and output it, and when the quantization circuit 130 starts processing of the k small blocks delayed by FIFO 108 by using the quantization table Q n . The quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 is supplied with the output value n of the latch circuit 122 and the count N-1 from the counter circuit 202, and generates a prediction threshold value S n (N-1) which is supplied to the comparator circuit 200. The quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 stores, as shown in FIG. 7, prediction threshold values S n0 , S n1 , . . . , S n (N-1) (n=0, 1, . . . , N-1) for each of the quantization tables Q 0 , Q 1 , . . . , Q N-1 , generates a prediction threshold value S nn , in accordance with a count n' (n'=0, 1, . . . , N-1) and the output value n (n=0, 1, . . . , N-1) of the counter 202, and outputs the value S nn , to the comparator 200. The comparator circuit 200 operates in the similar manner to the comparator circuit 116 of the first embodiment. If the comparator circuit 116 outputs a low level signal, the counter circuit 202 holds its present count, and if the comparator circuit 116 outputs a high level signal, the counter circuit 202 decrements by -1 (count down) and supplies the result to the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204. When the k small blocks as the length fixing unit are processed, the latch circuit 206 latches the count n' of the counter circuit 202 and outputs it from the output terminal 208. This value n' indicates the quantization table Q n' used for length fixing. (2) In the example (1), the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 stores the prediction threshold values S n0 , S n1 , . . . , S n (N-1) (n=0, 1, . . . , N-1) for each of the quantization tables Q 0 , Q 1 , . . . , Q N-1 . However, since the first prediction has already been performed by the preceding circuit B, the prediction threshold values may be, as shown in FIG. 10, S n (n+u), . . . , S n (n+1), S nn , S n (n-1), . . . , S n (n-v) to the predicted value n. For example, u=2 and v=2, or other values. In this case, the counter circuit 202 sets not a value N-1 but a value n+u in accordance with the value n supplied from the latch circuit 122. In this manner, the amount of hardware of the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 can be reduced. (3) In the examples (1) and (2), the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 stores the prediction threshold values for each of the quantization tables Q 0 , Q 1 , . . . , Q N-1 as shown in FIG. 8A. In the example (3), if the latch circuit 122 outputs N-7 as the first prediction result, the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 is adapted to generate, for example as shown in FIG. 8C, a prediction threshold value by using the quantization table Q N-6 . Specifically, the prediction threshold value is generated by Q N-2 if the output n of the latch circuit 122 is N-4≦n≦N-1, by Q N-6 if the output n is N-8≦n≦N-5, . . . , and by Q 2 if the output n is 0≦n≦3. In this manner, the amount of hardware of the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 can be further reduced. Division of quantization tables may be such as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8D in addition to FIG. 8C. Similar to the first embodiment, the quantization table prediction threshold value generation circuit 204 selects the prediction threshold value for either the quantization table for the high definition image (HD) or the quantization table for the standard definition image (SD), in accordance with the high definition (HD) image mode signal or standard definition (SD) image mode signal supplied from the input terminal 104. According to this embodiment, in accordance with the first prediction value n obtained by the first quantization table, the second quantization table is predicted. Accordingly, the quantization table n' more adaptive to the precise length fixing can be predicted. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the third embodiment of this invention. Elements having similar functions to those of the first and second embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 6 are represented by identical reference numerals. Only different points from the first and second embodiments will be described. Referring to FIG. 9, a quantization circuit 300 quantizes orthogonally transformed (two-dimensional DCT) image data delayed by FIFO 132 by using the quantization table Q n' in accordance with the value n' indicating the predicted quantization table and supplied from the latch circuit 206. The quantized image data is supplied to a code length generation circuit 304 which similar to the code length generation circuits 110 and 134, generates a code length of variable length code (two-dimensional Huffman code) adaptive to the quantized image data, and supplies it to adder circuits 306 and 320. The adder circuit 306 adds the code length supplied from the code length generation circuit 304 to the cumulative value supplied from a latch circuit 308, and supplies the added result to the latch circuit 308. The latch circuit 308 latches the added result supplied from the adder circuit 306, and supplies it to the adder circuits 306 and 316. Similar to the latch circuits 114 and 138, the latch circuit 308 is reset to "0" each time the k small blocks as the length fixing unit are processed. Therefore, after the k small blocks as the length fixing unit are processed, the latch circuit 8 latches the code amount RQ n of the k small blocks quantized by the predicted quantization table Q n' and coded in length fixing. The code amount RQ n' of the k small blocks latched by the latch circuit 308 is supplied to a comparator 310 which is also supplied with the target code amount R K via an input terminal 314. If RQ n' ≦R K , the comparator circuit 310 outputs "0" (low level signal), and if RQ n' >R K , the comparator circuit 310 outputs "1" (high level signal), respectively to a latch circuit 312. The latch circuit 312 latches the comparison result signal of the comparator circuit 310. In other words, the latch circuit 312 latches a signal indicating whether the code amount is within the target code amount or is overflowed. An output of the latch circuit 308 is also supplied to the adder circuit 316. The adder circuit 316 outputs a difference between the output of the latch circuit 308 and the target code amount R K supplied via the input terminal 314. The latch circuit 318 latches and outputs a difference Q n' =R K -RQ n' between the target code amount R K outputted from the adder circuit 316 and the code amount RQ n' of the image data quantized by the quantization table Q n' and coded in length fixing. An adder circuit 320 adds the code length generated from the code length generation circuit 304 to the cumulative value supplied from a latch circuit 322, and supplies the added value to the latch circuit 322. In transmitting or recording coded data, it becomes necessary for the decoding side to know what quantization table was used at the coding side. Therefore, the quantization table used for quantization is transmitted or recorded together with the coded data by any one of transmission or recording methods. Assuming that as shown in FIG. 10, image data is sent in the h small block unit (1≦h≦k, where h is a divisor of k), then the latch circuit 322 is reset to "0" each time h small blocks (each a point shown in FIG. 10) are processed during the processing period of the k small blocks as the length fixing unit. In other words, the latch circuit 322 outputs the code amount RQ n'r (0≦r≦k/(h-1)) every h small blocks. A FIFO 324 receives a value of the latch circuit 322 before it is reset to "0", i.e., receives the code amount RQ n'r (code amount for h small blocks) at the b point shown in FIG. 10. Namely, FIFO 324 receives a value for k/h small blocks during the process period of the k small blocks as the length fixing unit. A FIFO 302 delays the orthogonally transformed (two-dimensional DCT) image data by a time required for the above processes. Next, in accordance with the value n' indicating the predicted quantization table and supplied from the latch circuit 206 and with the output signal of the latch circuit 312, a quantization circuit 338 quantizes the delayed image data supplied from FIFO 302, by selecting the quantization table Q n'+1 having a smaller quantization step than the quantization table Q n' if the signal of the latch circuit 312 is "0" (low level signal) and by selecting the quantization table Q n'-1 having a larger quantization step than the quantization table Q n' if the signal of the latch circuit 312 is "1" (high level signal). After the delayed image data is quantized by the quantization circuit 338, it is supplied to a code length generation circuit 342. Similar to the code length generation circuits 110, 134, and 304, the code length generation circuit 342 generates a code length of variable length code, and supplies it to an adder circuit 344. The adder circuit 344 adds the code length supplied from the code length generation circuit 342 to the cumulative code length supplied from a latch circuit 346, and supplies the added value to the latch circuit 346. The latch circuit 346 latches the output of the adder circuit 344, and outputs it to the adders 344, 348, and 352. Similar to the latch circuit 322, the latch circuit 346 is reset to "0" each time h (1≦h≦k) small blocks are processed during the process period of the k small blocks as the length fixing unit. At the timing when the latch circuit 346 latches the code amount RQ.sub.(n'+1)r (0≦r≦k/(h-1)) if the output of the latch circuit 312 is "0" or the code amount RQ.sub.(n'-1)r if the output of the latch circuit 312 is "1", the code amount RQ n'r is read from FIFO 324 to calculate a difference of RQ.sub.(n'+1)r -RQ n'r (or RQ.sub.(n'-1)r -RQ n'r ) at the adder circuit 352. A latch circuit 354 latches the calculated difference of RQ.sub.(n'+1)r -RQ n'r (or RQ.sub.(n'-1)r -RQ n'r ), and supplies it to a FIFO 356 which loads it in. Next, the operation of this encoding apparatus will be described for the cases where the output of the latch circuit 312 is "0" or "1". (1) When the output of the latch circuit 312 is "0" (low level), a switch 364 selects a terminal b to supply an output def Q n'=R K -RQ n' of the latch circuit 318 to a latch circuit 362. The latch circuit 362 loads def Q n' . After the calculation of a code length of the image data of the k small blocks is completed and the k/h values RQ.sub.(n'+1)0 -RQ n'0 , RQ.sub.(n'+1)1 -RQ n'1 , . . . , RQ.sub.(n'+1)(k/(h-1)) -RQ n' (k/(h-1)) are loaded in FIFO 356, first RQ.sub.(n'+1)0 -RQ n'0 is read from FIFO 356 and outputted to an adder circuit 358. The adder circuit 358 subtracts RQ.sub.(n'+1)0 -RQ n'0 from the output def Q n' of the latch circuit 362, and supplies the result def Q n' -(RQ.sub.(n'+1)0 -RQ n'0 ) to a terminal a of the switch 360 and to a quantization table decision circuit 366. The quantization table decision circuit 366 decides the quantization table Q n'+1 for the h small blocks in this section (A 0 section in FIG. 10) if the output def Q n' -(RQ n'+1 )0 -RQ n'0 ) is "0" or larger, and controls to select the terminal a of the switch 360. The latch circuit 362 latches the output def Q n' -(RQ.sub.(n'+1)0 -RQ n'0 ) and supplies it to the adder circuit 358. Contrary, the quantization table decision circuit 366 decides the quantization table Q n' for the h small blocks in this section (A 0 section in FIG. 10) if the output def Q n' -(RQ.sub.(n'+1)0 -RQ n'0 ) is negative, and controls to select the terminal b of the switch 360. The latch circuit 362 latches again the output def Q n' and supplies it to the adder circuit 358. Next, RQ.sub.(n'+1)1 -RQ n'1 is read from FIFO 356 and outputted to the adder circuit 358. The adder circuit 358 subtracts RQ.sub.(n'+1)1 -RQ n'1 from the output of the latch circuit 362, and supplies the result to the terminal a of the switch 360 and to the quantization table decision circuit 366. Similar to the above, the quantization table decision circuit 366 decides the quantization table Q n'+1 for the h small blocks in this section (A 1 section in FIG. 10) if the output of the adder circuit 358 is "0" or larger, and controls to select the terminal a of the switch 360. The latch circuit 362 latches the output of the adder circuit. Contrary, the quantization table decision circuit 366 decides the quantization table Q n' for the h small blocks in this section (A 1 section in FIG. 10) if the output of the adder circuit 358 is negative, and controls to select the terminal b of the switch 360. The latch circuit 362 latches again the output def Q n' . In the manner described above, quantization tables for the sections A 0 , A 1 , . . . , A.sub.(k/(h-1)) are sequentially decided. For example, if k=30 and h=6, quantization tables (Q n'+1 , Q n' , Q n'+1 , Q n'+1 , Q n' ) are decided for the sections (A 0 , A 1 , A 2 , A 3 , A 4 ). The decided quantization table is transmitted via a terminal 370. A FIFO 340 delays the orthogonally transformed image data by a time required for deciding the quantization table. (2) Next, the operation when the latch circuit 312 outputs "1" (high level, in excess of the target code amount R K ) will be described. At the start of processing the k small blocks as the length fixing unit, the latch circuit 350 is loaded with the target code amount R K via the input terminal 314. When the code amount at the latch circuit 346 takes a value RQ.sub.(n'-1)0 corresponding to the section A 0 shown in FIG. 10, the adder circuit 348 calculates R K -R.sub.(n'-1)0 and supplies the result to the latch circuit 350 which latches the output R K -R.sub.(n'-1)0 of the adder circuit 348. When the code amount at the latch circuit 346 takes a value RQ.sub.(n'-1)1 corresponding to the section A 1 shown in FIG. 10, the adder circuit 348 subtracts the value RQ.sub.(n'-1)1 from the output R K -R.sub.(n'-1)0 of the latch circuit 350 and outputs R K -R.sub.(n'-1)0 -RQ.sub.(n'-1)1 to the latch circuit 350 which latches the output R K -R.sub.(n'-1)0 RQ.sub.(n'-1)0 -RQ.sub.(n'-1)1 of the adder circuit 348. When the k small blocks are processed, the value latched by the latch circuit 350 is def Q.sub.(n'-1) =R K -R.sub.(n'-1)0 -RQ.sub.(n'-1)1 -. . . -R.sub.(n'-1)(k/(h-2)) -R.sub.(n'-1)(k/(h-1)). When the value def Q.sub.(n'-1) is obtained, the terminal a of the switch 364 is selected and the value def Q.sub.(n'-1) is loaded in the latch circuit 362. Similar to the example (1), the k/h values RQ.sub.(n'-1)0 -RQ n'0 , RQ.sub.(n'-1)1 -RQ n'1 , . . . , RQ.sub.(n'-1)(k/(h-1)) -RQ n' (k/(h-1)) are loaded in FIFO 356. In the example (1), the adder circuit 358 subtracts the value read from FIFO 356 from the output of the latch circuit 362. However, in this example (2), the values loaded in FIFO, including the k/h values RQ.sub.(n'-1)0 -RQ n'0 , RQ.sub.(n'-1)1 -RQ n'1 , . . . , RQ.sub.(n'-1)(k/(h-1)) -RQ n' (k/(h-1)), are negative. Therefore, the adder circuit 358 adds the output of the latch circuit 362 to the output of FIFO 356, and the other operations thereof are similar to the example (1). In this manner, the quantization tables for the sections A 0 , A 1 , . . . , A k/ (h-1) are decided. For example, if k=30 and h=6, quantization tables (Q n' , Q n' , Q n'-1 , Q n'-1 , Q n'-1 ) are decided for the sections (A 0 , A 1 , A 2 , A 3 , A 4 ). The quantization circuits 300, 338 select either the quantization table for the high definition image (HD) or the quantization table for the standard definition image (SD), in accordance with the high definition (HD) image mode signal or standard definition (SD) image mode signal supplied from the input terminal 104. As described above, according to this embodiment, the k small blocks as the length fixing unit are quantized by using the predicted quantization table, and the code amount is calculated. The image data is further quantized by using a quantization table having a step width smaller than another quantization table predicted by the difference from the target code amount, or by using a quantization table having a larger step width. In this manner, the quantization table is decided so as to make the difference from the target code amount for the h (1≦h≦k) small block unit as small as possible. Accordingly, less degraded and highly precise images can be formed. In addition, an overflow to be caused by a miss of prediction can be dealt with. This embodiment can be realized also by the structure shown in FIG. 11. The circuit shown in FIG. 11 removes the circuit of FIG. 9 connected between the terminals 124, 126, and 128 and the terminals 148, 208, and 156. The operation of this circuit is similar to the above embodiment, and so the description thereof is omitted. With this circuit, the amount of hardware can be reduced further. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the fourth embodiment of the invention. Elements having similar functions to those of the first to third embodiments are represented by identical reference numerals. Only different points from the first to third second embodiments will be described. Referring to FIG. 12, a sort circuit 500 sorts the values latched by the latch circuit 354 in the descending order of their absolute values. Assuming that k=30 and h=6 and the output of the latch circuit 312 is "0" (low level), the operation of this circuit will be described. The sort circuit 500 sorts the values latched by the latched circuit 354, including the values RQ.sub.(n'+1)0 -RQ n'0 , RQ.sub.(n'+1)1 -RQ n'1 , . . . , RQ.sub.(n'+1)4 -RQ n'4 , in the descending order of their absolute values, for example, into RQ.sub.(n'+1)2 -RQ n'2 , RQ.sub.(n'+ 1 )0 -RQ n'0 , RQ.sub.(n'+1)3 -RQ n'3 , RQ.sub.(n'+1)1 -RQ n'1 , and RQ.sub.(n'1)4 -RQ n'4 . The value is read in the sorted order, first, the value RQ.sub.(n'+1)2 -RQ n'2 , and the processes similar to the third embodiment are performed. In this case, the quantization table decision circuit 502 receives sort information from the sort circuit 500, and decides the quantization table in the order of the sections (A 2 , A 0 , A 3 , A 1 , A 4 ) shown in FIG. 10. The operations of the sort circuit 500 and quantization table decision circuit 502 are basically similar also for the case wherein the output of the latch circuit 312 is "1" (high level), and so the description thereof is omitted. Similar to the third embodiment, this embodiment is also compatible both with the high definition (HD) and standard definition (SD) images. As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the k small blocks as the length fixing unit are quantized by using the predicted quantization table, and the code amount is calculated. The image data is further quantized by using a quantization table having a step width smaller than another quantization table predicted by the difference from the target code amount, or by using a quantization table having a larger step width. A difference from the code amount relative to the quantization table predicted by the h (1≦h≦k) small block unit is calculated. The larger the absolute value of the difference, the larger the code amount is assigned so as to make the code amount near to the target code amount. Accordingly, less degraded and highly precise images can be formed. In addition, an overflow to be caused by a miss of prediction can be dealt with. This embodiment can be realized also by the structure shown in FIG. 13. The circuit shown in FIG. 13 removes the circuit of FIG. 12 connected between the terminals 124, 126, and 128 and the terminals 148, 208, and 156. The operation of this circuit is similar to the above embodiment, and so the description thereof is omitted. With this circuit, the amount of hardware can be reduced further. In this embodiment, the values RQ n'r (0≦r≦k/(h-1)) inputted to FIFO 324 or the output values RQ.sub.(n'+1)r or RQ.sub.(n'-1)r of the latch circuit 346 may be sorted in the descending order and the quantization table is decided in this order. As described so far, the structures of the above embodiments provide a quantizer suitable for length fixing with a small amount of hardware and less degraded and high quality images can be formed. If the calculated code amount is the target code amount or smaller, the quantizer having a finer quantization step than the predicted quantizer is used. If the calculated code amount is in excess of the target code amount, the quantizer having a more coarse quantization step than the predicted quantizer is used. The two quantizers are adaptively selected in the length fixing unit (in k small blocks). In this manner, length fixing having a smaller difference from the target code amount can be performed and images of higher quality can be formed.
A coding apparatus has a quantizer selected from a quantizer group and being used for coding inputted data, a first code amount calculation circuit for calculating a code amount of codes of the inputted data quantized by the quantizer, a prediction circuit for predicting a quantizer among the quantizer group capable of obtaining a target code amount, in accordance with the code amount calculated by the first code amount calculation circuit, the quantizer predicted by the prediction circuit for quantizing the inputted data, a second code amount calculation circuit for calculating a code amount of codes of the inputted data quantized by the predicted quantizer, and a comparator circuit for comparing the code amount calculated by the second code amount calculation circuit with the target code amount.
7
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of earlier filed and copending U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/190,626, filed Mar. 20, 2000, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND [0002] 1. Technical Field [0003] The present invention relates to the use of yeast strains to modify substrates via biooxidation. More particularly, the present invention relates to processes for converting certain substrates into alcohols or carboxylic acids utilizing yeast. [0004] 2. Background of Related Art [0005] Aliphatic dioic acids, alcohols and compounds having combinations of alcohols and acids are versatile chemical intermediates useful as raw materials for the preparation of adhesives, fragrances, polyamides, polyesters, and antimicrobials. While chemical routes for the synthesis of long-chain α,ω-dicarboxylic acids are available, the synthesis is complicated and results in mixtures containing dicarboxylic acids of shorter chain lengths. As a result, extensive purification steps are necessary. While it is known that long-chain dioic acids can also be produced by microbial transformation of alkanes, fatty acids or esters, chemical synthesis has remained the preferred route, presumably due to limitations with the previously available biological approaches. [0006] Several strains of yeast are known to excrete α,ω-dicarboxylic acids as a byproduct when cultured on alkanes or fatty acids. In particular, yeast belonging to the genus Candida, such as C. albicans, C. cloacae, C. guillermondii, C. intermedia, C. lipolytica, C. maltosa, C. parapsilosis, and C. zeylenoides are known to produce such dicarboxylic acids. ( Agr. Biol. Chem. 35, 2033-2042 (1971).) In addition, various strains of the yeast C. tropicalis are known to produce dicarboxylic acids ranging in chain lengths from C 11 through C 18 as a byproduct when cultured on alkanes or fatty acids as the carbon source (Okino et al., B M Lawrence, B D Mookherjee and B J Willis (eds.), in Flavors and Fragrances: A World Perspective. Proceedings of the 10 th International Conference of Essential Oils, Flavors and Fragrances, Elsevier Science Publishers BV Amsterdam (1988)), and are the basis of several patents as reviewed by Bühler and Schindler, in Aliphatic Hydrocarbons in Biotechnology, H. J. Rehm and G. Reed (eds), Vol. 169, Verlag Chemie, Weinheim (1984). [0007] Studies of the biochemical processes by which yeasts metabolize alkanes and fatty acids have revealed three types of oxidation reactions: α-oxidation of alkanes to alcohols; ω-oxidation of fatty acids to α,ω-dicarboxylic acids; and the degradative β-oxidation of fatty acids to CO 2 and water. In C. tropicalis the first step in the ω-oxidation pathway is catalyzed by a membrane-bound enzyme complex (ω-hydroxylase complex) including a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase and a NADPH-cytochrome reductase. This hydroxylase complex is responsible for the primary oxidation of the terminal methyl group in alkanes and fatty acids (Gilewicz et al., Can. J. Microbiol. 25:201 (1979)). The genes which encode the cytochrome P450 and NADPH reductase components of the complex have previously been identified as P450ALK and P450RED respectively, and have also been cloned and sequenced (Sanglard et al., Gene 76:121-136 (1989)). P450ALK has also been designated P450ALK1. More recently, ALK genes have been designated by the symbol CYP and RED genes have been designated by the symbol CPR. See, e.g., Nelson, Pharmacogenetics 6(1):1-42 (1996), which is incorporated herein by reference. See also Ohkuma et al., DNA and Cell Biology 14:163-173 (1995), Seghezzi et al., DNA and Cell Biology, 11:767-780 (1992) and Kargel et al., Yeast 12:333-348 (1996), each incorporated herein by reference. For example, P450ALK is also designated CYP52 according to the nomenclature of Nelson, supra. [0008] Cytochromes P450 (P450s) are terminal monooxidases of the multicomponent enzyme system described above. They comprise a superfamily of proteins which exist widely in nature having been isolated from a variety of organisms, e.g., various mammals, fish, invertebrates, plants, mollusks, crustaceans, lower eukaryotes and bacteria (Nelson, supra). First discovered in rodent liver microsomes as a carbon-monoxide binding pigment as described, e.g., in Garfinkel, Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 77:493-509 (1958), which is incorporated herein by reference, P450s were later named based on their absorption at 450 nm in a reduced-CO coupled difference spectrum as described, e.g., in Omura et al., J. Biol. Chem. 239:2370-2378 (1964), which is incorporated herein by reference. [0009] P450s catalyze the metabolism of a variety of endogenous and exogenous compounds (Nelson, supra). Endogenous compounds include steroids, prostanoids, eicosanoids, fat-soluble vitamins, fatty acids, mammalian alkaloids, leukotrines, biogenic amines and phytolexins (Nelson, supra). P450 metabolism involves such reactions as aliphatic hydroxylation, aromatic oxidation, alkene epoxidation, nitrogen dealkylation, oxidative deamination, oxygen dealkylation, nitrogen oxidation, oxidative desulfuration, oxidative dehalogenation, oxidative denitrification, nitro reduction, azo reduction, tertiary amine N-oxide reduction, arene oxide reduction and reductive dehalogenation. (P G Wislocki, G T Miwa and A Y H Lu, Reaction Catalyzed by the Cytochrome P-450 System, Enzymatic Basis of Detoxication, Vol. 1, Academic Press (1980).) These reactions generally make the compound more water soluble, which is conducive for excretion, and more electrophilic. (These electrophilic products have detrimental effects if they react with DNA or other cellular constituents.) The electrophilic products can then react through conjugation with low molecular weight hydrophilic substances resulting in glucoronidation, sulfation, acetylation, amino acid conjugation or glutathione conjugation typically leading to inactivation and elimination as described, e.g., in Klaassen et al., Toxicology, 3 rd ed, Macmillan, New York, 1986, incorporated herein by reference. [0010] Fatty acids are ultimately formed from alkanes after two additional oxidation steps, catalyzed by alcohol oxidase (Kemp et al., Appl. Microbiol. and Biotechnol, 28, 370-374 (1988)) and aldehyde dehydrogenase. The, ω-hydroxylase enzymes of the ω-oxidation pathway are located in the endoplasmic reticulum, while the enzymes catalyzing the last two steps, the fatty alcohol oxidase and the fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase, are located in the peroxisomes. The fatty acids can be further oxidized through the same or similar pathway to the corresponding dicarboxylic acid. The ω-oxidation of fatty acids proceeds via the ω-hydroxy fatty acid and its aldehyde derivative, to the corresponding dicarboxylic acid without the requirement for CoA activation. However, both fatty acids and dicarboxylic acids can be degraded, after activation to the corresponding acyl-CoA ester through the β-oxidation pathway in the peroxisomes, leading to chain shortening. In mammalian systems, both fatty acid and dicarboxylic acid products of ω-oxidation are activated to their CoA-esters at equal rates and are substrates for both mitochondrial and peroxisomal β-oxidation ( J. Biochem., 102, 225-234 (1987)). In yeast, β-oxidation takes place solely in the peroxisomes ( Agr. Biol. Chem., 49, 1821-1828 (1985)). [0011] Metabolic pathways can be manipulated in an attempt to increase or decrease the production of various products or by-products. Knowing that fatty acids possessing one or more internal double bonds or secondary alcohol functionality are capable of undergoing ω-oxidation, the ω-oxidation pathway can be manipulated to produce greater amounts of dicarboxylic acids. U.S. Pat. No. 5,254,466, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses a method for producing α,ω-dicarboxylic acids in high yields by culturing C. tropicalis strains having disrupted chromosomal POX4A, POX4B and both POX5 genes. The POX4 and POX5 gene disruptions effectively block the β-oxidation pathway at its first reaction (which is catalyzed by acyl-CoA oxidase) in a C. tropicalis host strain. The POX4 and POX5 genes encode distinct subunits of long chain acyl-CoA oxidase, which are the peroxisomal polypeptides (PXPs) designated PXP-4 and PXP-5, respectively. The disruption of these genes results in a complete block of the β-oxidation pathway thus allowing enhanced yields of dicarboxylic acid by redirecting the substrate toward the ω-oxidation pathway and also preventing reutilization of the dicarboxylic acid products through the β-oxidation pathway. [0012] Similarly, C. tropicalis may also have one or more cytochrome P450 genes and/or reductase genes amplified which results in an increase in the amount of rate-limiting ω-hydroxylase through P450 gene amplification and an increase in the rate of substrate flow through the ω-oxidation pathway. C. tropicalis strain AR40 is an amplified H 5343 strain wherein all four POX4 genes and both copies of the chromosomal POX5 genes are disrupted by a URA3 selectable marker and which also contains 3 additional copies of the cytochrome P450 gene and 2 additional copies of the reductase gene, the P450RED gene. Strain AR40 has the ATCC accession number ATCC 20987. C. tropicalis strain R24 is an amplified H 5343 strain in which all four POX4 genes and both copies of the chromosomal POX5 genes are disrupted by a URA3 selectable marker and which also contains multiple copies of the reductase gene. Strains AR40 and R24 are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,620,878 and 5,648,247, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [0013] Processes for utilizing modified C. tropicalis to produce carboxylic acids are also known. U.S. Pat. No. 5,962,285, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses a process for making carboxylic acids by fermenting a β-oxidation blocked C. tropicalis cell in a culture comprised of a nitrogen source, an organic substrate and a cosubstrate. The substrate is an unsaturated aliphatic compound having at least one internal carbon-carbon double bond and at least one terminal methyl group, a terminal carboxyl group and/or a terminal functional group which is oxidizable to a carboxyl group. The fermentation product is then reacted with an oxidizing agent to produce one or more carboxylic acids. [0014] Similar shake flask experiments have been used in the past to test substrates. The terminal methyl group and the terminal double bond of α-alkenes or branched monoacids are oxidized and form alcohol groups or the desired acid groups. The oxidation of the terminal double bond of α-olefins to form a (ω,ω-1) diol is an interesting reaction. The overall oxidation product is thus a (ω,ω-1) hydroxyfatty acid. The biooxidation of α-olefins was first reported by Uemura. (N. Uemura, Industrialization of the Production of Dibasic Acid from n-Paraffins Using Microorganisms, Hakko to Kogyo, 43:43644 (1985)). [0015] While the genetically modified strains of Candida sp. are able to produce large quantities of product necessary to develop a commercially feasible process, it is not known what effect variations of chain length, functional groups, etc. will have on the ability of C. tropicalis to produce alcohols and carboxylic acids through the process of biooxidation. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0016] In accordance with the present invention, it has been determined that in order for terminal methyl groups of organic substrates to be oxidized by Candida sp., at least one methylene group must be present between a terminal methyl group and the rest of the molecule. Accordingly, the inventors have developed a process by which substrates of varying functionality, chain lengths and overall structure are oxidized by Candida sp. to alcohols and carboxylic acids. [0017] In one embodiment, the substrate is solubilized in an organic solvent and then biooxidized by Candida sp. [0018] In a preferred embodiment, the Candida sp. used in the bioconversion process has been modified so that its β-oxidation pathway has been blocked. In another preferred embodiment, the Candida sp. used in the bioconversion process has been modified so that its β-oxidation pathway has been blocked and one or more of its cytochrome P450 genes and/or reductase genes have been amplified. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0019] For purposes of the present invention, a carboxylic acid includes a polycarboxylic acid. Toxicity is the highest concentration at which a substrate can be added to a culture broth of Candida sp. without causing undue inhibition of growth, unacceptable amounts of cell death or undue interference with the bioconversion process. [0020] This invention provides a process for introducing hydroxyl, aldehyde and/or carboxylic acid functionalities into organic substrates by fermentation with by Candida sp. Examples of suitable particular Candida sp. useful herein include C. albicans, C. cloacae, C. guillermondii, C. intermedia, C. lipolytica, C. maltosa, C. parapsilosis, and C. zeylenoides and C. tropicalis. While it is known that certain alkane and fatty acid substrates with terminal methyl groups can be oxidized to form alcohols or carboxylic acids and that fatty acids possessing one or more internal double bonds or secondary alcohol functionality are capable of undergoing ω-oxidation, the effects of additional functionality, such as double bonds, alcohol groups, etc. were unknown in the biooxidation process. According to the present invention, it has been determined that the overall capability of Candida sp. to perform biochemical oxidations on a variety of chemical substrates is dependent on the presence of at least one methylene group between a terminal methyl group and the rest of a substrate molecule. In the first phase of this testing, substrates were selected because they contained a terminal methyl group. In addition, they possessed additional functionality such as a double bond, alcohol group, etc. Classes of substrates tested included primary and secondary alcohols, α-olefins, ketones, epoxides, alkenes, alkynes, sulfur compounds, branched-chain fatty acids, Guerbet alcohols, fatty acid esters, natural oils, and sterols. A second phase of testing was conducted on additional substrates, including a homologous series of varying aliphatic chain lengths attached to a cyclohexane ring. The second series of tests obtained additional information about the oxidation products using analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) in addition to IR and NMR analyses. [0021] A preferred species of Candida sp. is C. tropicalis. Although wild-type C. tropicalis may be utilized to convert substrates, according to the present invention strains in which the β-oxidation pathway is partially blocked, are preferred. For example, genetically modified C. tropicalis having chromosomal POX4A, POX4B and POX5 genes disrupted to block β-oxidation pathway may be utilized. Examples of strains of C. tropicalis which are partially β-oxidation blocked include, H41, H41B, H51, H45, H43, H53, H534, H534B and H435 as described in aforementioned U.S. Pat. No. 5,254,466. An example of a completely β-oxidation blocked strain of C. tropicalis wherein all POX4 and POX5 genes are disrupted is H5343 (ATCC 20962) as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,254,466. The sequence in which the four POX genes are disrupted is immaterial. When all of these POX genes are disrupted, they no longer encode the functional acyl-CoA oxidase isozymes necessary for the β-oxidation pathway. Therefore, the substrate flow in this strain is redirected to the ω-oxidation pathway as the result of functional inactivation of the competing β-oxidation pathway by POX gene disruption. In another preferred embodiment, C. tropicalis strains having one or more cytochrome P450 genes and/or reductase genes amplified may be utilized. For example, C. tropicalis strains which have a greater number of CPR genes than the wild type strain have shown increased productivity of carboxylic acids as described, e.g., in aforementioned U.S. Pat. No. 5,620,878. Specific examples of CPR genes include the CPRA and CPRB genes of C. tropicalis 20336 as described, e.g., in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/302/620 and International Application No. PCT/US99/2097, each incorporated herein by reference. These strains provide an increase in the amount of rate-limiting ω-hydroxylase and an increase in the rate of substrate flow through the ω-oxidation pathway. Preferred strains of C. tropicalis are H5343 (ATCC Accession No. 20962), AR40 (ATCC No. 20987) and R24. See U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,620,878 and 5,648,247. [0022] The genetically β-oxidation blocked strain of C. tropicalis used in a preferred embodiment has been shown previously to perform a ω-oxidation reaction on the terminal methyl group of long-chain fatty acids and alkanes. While the preferred strain of C. tropicalis is a β-oxidation-blocked strain, any C. tropicalis strain, no matter whether the strain can perform β-oxidation or not, may be used. A complete or partial block in β-oxidation only decreases the probability that the substrates tested or their oxidation products will be degraded, and increases the likelihood of detecting biooxidation products, if formed. With some substrates, there is also the possibility that degradation might occur through pathways other than β-oxidation. Therefore, some observed loss of starting material might be due to degradation rather than volatility, although volatility of substrates is the most likely cause for low recoveries. [0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the substrate to be converted is solubilized in a solvent. In a preferred embodiment, the solvent is an organic solvent such as acetone, ethanol, or hexane, with acetone being most preferred. The solvent is utilized in amounts that are not toxic to Candida sp. but still capable of solubilizing the substrate. [0024] Substrates themselves should be tested for their toxicity prior to bioconversion. The data obtained from these experiment is useful in three ways: 1) it ensures that Candida sp. remain viable after induction and can adequately perform the biooxidation process; 2) the volatility of test substrates can be assessed; and 3) knowing the toxicity of a test substrate ensures that the maximum amount of sample can be added. [0025] The organic substrate is any organic compound having at least one terminal methyl group attached to at least one methylene group. Examples of organic substrates which can be used in the process according to the invention include but are not limited to CH 3 CH 2 -ethers, CH 3 CH 2 -epoxides, CH 3 CH 2 -saturated primary alcohols, CH 3 CH 2 -alkoxy, CH 3 CH 2 -diols and CH 3 -CH 2 diol esters. In addition to the above, the organic substrate which can be used in the process according to the invention include but are not limited to CH 3 CH 2 -cycloalkyl, CH 3 ,CH 2 -aryl and the like. [0026] The fermentation step is preferably carried out in two stages. In the first stage, a culture medium is inoculated with an active culture of Candida sp. such as β-oxidation blocked C. tropicalis strain where a period of rapid exponential growth occurs. In the second stage, which occurs as the cell growth of the first stage enters stationary phase, the substrate is added wherein the biooxidation described herein takes place. Since energy can no longer be produced from the substrate in β-oxidation blocked strains, it is necessary to add a cosubstrate. The cosubstrate is a fermentable carbohydrate such as glucose, fructose, maltose, glycerol and sodium acetate. For larger industrial fermentations, the preferred cosubstrate is glucose, preferably a liquid glucose syrup, for example, 95% dextrose-equivalent syrup, or even lower dextrose-equivalent syrups. For shake flask experiments, the preferred cosubstrate is glycerol. Such materials contain small amounts of disaccharides, trisaccharides, and polysaccharides which can be hydrolyzed during the fermentation by the addition of an amylase enzyme such as α-amylase, glucoamylase and cellulase. Thus glucose can be provided in situ in a reaction simultaneous with the biooxidation. The fermentation conditions and procedures are similar to those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,254,466. [0027] The fermentation step can be modified by utilizing a triglyceride fat or oil as the source of both the organic substrate and cosubstrate. A lipase, formulated with the fermentation broth, hydrolyzes or splits the fat or oil into fatty acids and glycerine. Glycerine consumption by the organism serves to drive the splitting reaction to completion while supplying the energy necessary to convert the free fatty acids to their corresponding alcohols or acids. Lipases that are oleo-specific are particularly preferred. Oleo-specific lipases exhibit a high selectivity for a triglyceride having a high oleic acid content and selectively catalyze the hydrolysis of the oleate ester groups. Examples of such oleo-specific lipases include but are not limited to the lipases produced by Pseudomonas sp, Humicola lanuginosa, Candida rugosa, Geotrichum candidum, and Pseudomonas ( Burkholderia ). A particularly preferred lipase is UNLipase from Geotrichum candidum ATCC No. 74170 described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,470,741, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [0028] After the substrates were added to Candida sp. and biooxidation occurred, samples were obtained, dried and analyzed. Those skilled in the art are familiar with many techniques for purification and analysis of alcohols, aldehydes and carboxylic acids. In the present case, the dried samples were weighed and dissolved in an NMR appropriate solvent. C 13 and H-NMR were performed on an adequate amount of recovered sample using a Varian Unity 400 (Varian, Inc.). [0029] However, analysis via NMR-spectroscopy has its limitations. It can only estimate what changes occurred and identify functional groups, but not identify the actual compounds that have been synthesized. In complex mixtures, particularly, NMR may miss a small amount of oxidation product altogether. Additionally the extraction process solubilized a number of cellular components, such as cell membrane lipids and other fatty acids produced from the added carbon source (glycerol). Antifoam was also detected. Therefore, for complex mixtures with only small amounts of product formation, it might be useful to use IR, GC/MS, LC/MS, HPLC/MS or other analytical techniques for a more accurate and precise analysis. IR can be performed using, for example, a Nicolet Magna-IR 560. [0030] In a preferred embodiment, GC/MS is also performed. Samples are silylated prior to GC/MS analysis, but acetylation and methylation may also be performed with certain samples, to make derivatives. Derivatives aid in interpretation of the mass spectra by making the compound better suited for structure elucidation, particularly for identification of hydroxy derivatives by silylation. These molecular weight differences assist in assigning structures to components of samples. Samples may be separated using any procedure known to those skilled in the art, such as a J&W DB-5MS (60 m×0.25 mm×0.25 um) column (J&W Scientific, Folsom, Calif.). GC/MS can be performed on any suitable apparatus that permits accurate readings following the manufacturer's protocol, such as an AutoSpec X015 VG (Micromass Ltd., Manchester, England) triple sector mass spectrometer (E-B-E configuration). [0031] The results indicate that Candida sp. possess significant genetic and biochemical variability, since they have the capability to oxidize methyl groups attached to a variety of R-groups. Tests with a homologous series of aliphatic chains attached to cyclohexane (methylcyclohexane, ethylcyclohexane, propylcyclohexane, and butylcyclohexane) indicate that the methyl group must be part of an aliphatic chain of at least two carbons (ethyl group). To date, no evidence of oxidation of a secondary, tertiary, or aromatic methyl group has been observed. Most substrates tested herein have the general formula: R—(CH 2 ) n —CH 3 , where R is an epoxide, alkoxy, ether, saturated primary alcohol, cycloalkyl, aryl, diol, or diol ester. Substrates were selected that allowed the determination of the minimum chain length required for oxidation (n in the formula). Other substrates were selected to determine what types of functional groups (R in the formula) are compatible with biooxidation. [0032] The results of the experiments clearly indicate that the terminal methyl groups of propyl and butyl chains (or larger) attached to a variety of functional groups can be oxidized by Candida sp. Overall, oxidation was seen where a terminal methyl group was adjacent to a methylene group. Accordingly, depending upon the number of such groups, monoacids, diacids, triacids, etc. could be produced. Likewise, the number of OH groups and CHO groups generated by biooxidation will vary based on the number of suitable terminal methyl groups. Oxidation of substrates having branched structures which provides multiple terminal methyl groups will produce greater numbers of oxidized species. In addition, the results with ethylcyclohexane indicate that the terminal methyl group of the ethyl chain can also be oxidized. The successful oxidation given the bulkiness of the cyclohexyl moiety would indicate that ethyl groups attached to other functionalities are oxidizable at the terminal methyl group as well. The evidence available indicates that n in the previously described formula is 1 or higher. [0033] The results indicate that an aliphatic chain can be attached to a variety of functional groups without preventing biooxidation of the terminal methyl group as long as a methylene separates the terminal methyl group from the rest of the molecule. If substrates and/or products contain both an acid and alcohol functionality, esterification between acid and alcohol groups is observed to occur to a certain extent. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, this is likely catalyzed by either internal or external lipases, which are known to catalyze esterification reactions in hydrophobic environments. Epoxy groups are opened to form diols. All epoxy groups of the Soybean oil Plastolein 9232 (epoxy soya) were opened. This observation has now been confirmed by finding that 1,2-epoxytetradecane is oxidized to yield the corresponding (ω,ω-1)-hydroxyfatty acid. Primary aliphatic alcohols are oxidized at the terminal methyl to yield alcohols or diacids. Shorter chain alcohols, such as dodecanol, show an unusually low degree of reaction that may be due to the inhibition of growth due to lauric acid product formation. The series butylcyclohexane, propylcyclohexane, ethylcyclohexane, and methylcyclohexane, was tested to determine the minimal aliphatic chain length needed for oxidation of the terminal methyl group to occur. The results described below indicate that the minimal chain length is two (ethyl group). No oxidation of aliphatic chain lengths shorter than two (methyl group) has been observed. [0034] In order to achieve a higher yield of oxidation product or to allow the oxidation to go to completion (—CH 3 —→—CH 2 OH—→—CHO—→—COOH), the process of biooxidation could be prolonged to 72 hours or more. One method for doing this would be to add another batch of carbon source and/or sample after the initial time period. Very volatile samples should be added more often during the biooxidation process as well as samples that can only be added at lower concentrations (to avoid toxicity). [0035] The following examples are merely illustrative of certain aspects of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any manner. EXAMPLE 1 Toxicity tests of Organic Solvents [0036] Since some of the substrates were solid at room temperature or were added at low concentrations, they were first solubilized in an organic solvent, prior to their addition to the yeast culture. Since some solvents exhibit toxicity to Candida sp., one of the first steps was to evaluate the toxicity of four potential organic solvents: acetone, chloroform, ethanol and hexane. These solvents were chosen because of their potential for solubilizing the majority of the test substrates. Acetone in particular was considered to be a good solvent, since it could solubilize most of the organic substrates to be tested, yet was itself soluble in the aqueous culture medium. The concentration at which a test solvent became lethal to Candida sp. was determined by testing its ability to grow in the presence of different solvents at different concentrations. Cell growth in the presence of the different solvents was monitored spectrophotometrically using a Shimadzu LV160A UV-visible recording spectrophotometer. [0037] For each solvent tested, YPD was added to five autoclaved glass tubes. 6 ml was transferred to the first and 3 ml to the rest. 4% solvent was added to the first tube. Then the solvents were serially diluted to give concentrations from 4% to 0.25% by pipetting 3 ml from one tube to another. The tubes were mixed well between transfers. To achieve the serial dilution for chloroform and hexane, which are not soluble in aqueous solutions, it was necessary to pipette up and down or vortex until a uniform suspension formed. After completing the dilutions, 10 ml of an overnight grown YPD culture of C. tropicalis was added to each tube and the culture was allowed to grow in the presence of the solvents. As a positive control, one culture was inoculated in YPD alone. After 24 h in a 30° C. shaker at 220 rpm the cultures were sampled. The samples were then diluted in YPD 1:100 and the absorbance (ABS) measured spectrophotometrically at a wavelength of 600 mn as an indicator for growth. Each culture was also examined under the microscope. [0038] The results of this test are shown below in Table 1. Three out of four solvents were found to be useful. In addition to being a very good solvent, acetone was found to be nontoxic at concentrations of 4% or lower. Because of this, it was the solvent of choice for the majority of the substrates. Both ethanol, which was found to be nontoxic at 4%, and hexane, which was found to be nontoxic at 2%, were found to be suitable solvents. Chloroform was not an acceptable solvent, since it was found to be lethal at concentrations greater than 1% and it precipitated various components of the broth at these concentrations. Growth of C. tropicalis strain H5343 was measured by absorbance at 600 nm. [0000] TABLE 1 Spectrophotometric Data of Toxicity tests of Organic Solvents ABS Lambda = 600.0 nm Dilution in YPD (1:100) Concentration [%] Organic Solvent 4 2 1 0.5 0.25 Acetone 0.087 0.149 0.111 0.183 0.123 Chloroform 0.000 0.000 0.005 0.168 0.156 Ethanol 0.090 0.119 0.137 0.104 0.122 Hexane 0.005 0.126 0.119 0.148 0.119 EXAMPLE 2 Toxicity tests of substrates [0039] This experiment examined the toxicity of test substrates. The data collected from Example 1 was used to help prepare a stock solution of the test substrate in one of the solvents. Stock solutions of most substrates in concentrations from 100 g/L to 500 g/L were made using acetone as a solvent. Aqueous solutions of polyethylene glycol were prepared. In the few cases that the substrate could not be dissolved in any of the tested solvents, it was added neat. [0040] The toxicity test used here was similar to that used for the solvents described in Example 1. The goal was to determine the highest concentration at which a substrate could be added to a culture broth without being toxic, inhibiting growth, or interfering with the bioconversion process. C. tropicalis strain H5343 was grown in the presence of the substrate at different concentrations and growth was monitored spectrophotometrically. In order to determine if the substrate was lethal or was simply inhibiting growth, the cultures were examined under the microscope and streak plates of YPD and LB agar were prepared. Contamination of the culture with an unwanted organism could also be detected using this approach. Table 2 lists the substrates that were tested along with their source. [0000] TABLE 2 Substrates Tested Substrate Vendor CAS No. Purity [%] 1-Dodecanol n/a 112-53-8 n/a 2-Ethylhexanoic acid Henkel 149-57-5 n/a 2-Heptylundecanoic Henkel n/a n/a acid 6-Dodecyne Lancaster 6975-99-1 n/a 6-Undecanol Fluka n/a n/a 9-Heptadecanone n/a n/a n/a 12-Hydroxystearic acid Lancaster  106-14-9 96 C 12 α-Olefin Shell  112-41-4 n/a C 14 α-Olefin Shell 1120-36-1 n/a Castor Oil n/a 8001-79-4 n/a Dodecyclamine Aldrich  124-22-1 98 E 993 Aliphat 34R Henkel n/a n/a Emery 9232, Pastolein Henkel n/a n/a Eutanol G16 Henkel n/a n/a Generol Henkel n/a n/a HD-Ocenol Henkel n/a n/a Hexadecyl acetate Henkel  3551-84-01 n/a Hexadecyl pelargonate Henkel 3551-86 n/a Indu-Extrakt-sclareol Henkel n/a n/a Larol alcohol C12-14A Henkel n/a n/a PEG 200 Lancaster 25322-68-3  n/a PEG 200, Dilaurate Henkel n/a n/a PEG 200, Monolaurate Henkel n/a n/a R(+) limonene Aldrich 5989-27-5 97 S(−) limonene Aldrich 5989-54-8 96 trans-2-nonene Aldrich 6434-78-2 99 trans-7-tetradecene Aldrich 41446-63-3  98 [0041] For each substrate tested, YPD was added to five autoclaved glass tubes. 6 ml was transferred to the first tube and 3 ml to the rest. 1% substrate was added to the first tube and then serially diluted to give concentrations from 1% to 0.015%. Since the last tube was initially empty, the concentration in the last two tubes was the same. Except for the last tube, 10 ml of an overnight YPD culture of C. tropicalis was added to each tube, the last tube was a control for contamination. The cultures were then allowed to grow in the presence of the substrates. As a growth-control one culture without substrate was inoculated. After 48 h in a 30° C. shaker at 220 rpm the cultures were sampled. The samples were then diluted in YPD 1:100 and growth was measured spectrophotometrically at a wavelength of 600 nm. [0042] To determine if contamination had occurred, each culture was examined under the microscope and streak plates of both YPD and LB were made from the 1% and the inoculated 0.015% tube. [0043] Table 3 below shows that most substrates were not toxic at a concentration of 1% or less. Some, however, were found to be highly toxic to C. tropicalis and were not suitable for further testing. [0000] TABLE 3 Spectrophotometric Data of Toxicity tests of Substrates ABS l = 600.0 nm Dilution in YPD (1:100) Concentration [%] neg. Substrate 1 0.5 0.25 0.13 0.063 0.0313 0.01563 control 1-Dodecanol 0.267** 0.013** 0.032** 0.004 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 2-Ethylhexanoic acid 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.051 0.099 0.000 2-Heptylundecanoic acid 0.268 0.048 0.043 0.077 0.077 0.082 0.000 6-Dodecyne 0.066 0.071 0.073 0.071 0.074 0.083 0.125 0.000 6-Undecanol 0.000** 0.000** 0.000** 0.000** 0.000** 0.000** 0.000** 0.000 9-Heptadecanone 0.004** 0.073 0.120 0.103 0.064 0.120 0.100 0.000 12-Hydroxystearic acid 0.120 NT NT NT NT NT NT NT C12 a-Olefin 0.082 0.080 0.080 0.082 0.119 0.119 0.077 0.000 C14 a-Olefin 0.087 0.084 0.115 0.097 0.085 0.084 0.061 0.000 Castor Oil 0.078 0.082 0.089 0.086 0.070 0.090 0.077 0.000 Dodecene 0.026 0.032 0.053 0.050 0.079 0.055 0.088 0.000 Dodecyclamine 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 E 993 Aliphat 34R 0.093 0.098 0.091 0.102 0.093 0.081 0.112 0.000 Emery 9232, Pastolein 0.061 NT 0.076 0.107 0.870 0.055 0.059 0.000 Eutanol G16 0.117 0.122 0.145 0.273 0.110 0.145 0.120 0.000 Generol 0.053* 0.044* 0.011* 0.122 0.139 0.145 0.148 0.000 HD-Ocenol 0.087 0.085 0.097 0.115 0.076 0.087 0.093 0.000 Hexadecyl acetate 0.155 0.103 0.110 0.083 0.089 0.104 0.110 0.000 Hexadecyl pelargonate 0.080 0.102 0.103 0.083 0.075 0.095 0.112 0.000 Indu-Extrakt-sclareol 0.083 0.092 0.110 0.106 0.157 0.100 0.083 0.000 Larol alcohol C12-14A NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT PEG 200 0.089 0.096 0.101 0.096 0.103 0.108 0.101 0.000 PEG 200, Dilaurate 0.051** 0.064 0.088 0.061 0.057 0.080 0.064 0.000 PEG 200, Monolaurate 0.041** 0.052 0.099 0.107 0.090 0.107 0.062 0.000 R(+) limonene 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.007 0.106 0.117 0.123 0.000 S(−) limonene 0.002 0.002 0.000 0.002 0.011 0.094 0.104 0.000 trans-2-nonene 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.066 0.105 0.100 0.112 0.000 trans-7-tetradecene 0.095 0.107 0.103 0.104 0.112 0.106 0.117 0.000 ABS = absorbance of culture broth NT => not tested **growth inhibited, cells still alive as detected on streak plates. Abs result of substrate interference *no growth detected on streak plates, therefore, possible substrate interference EXAMPLE 3 Bioconversion Process (Phase 1) [0044] The maximum non-toxic concentration of each substrate, as determined from the toxicity testing in Example 2, was employed for the bioconversion testing in shake flask experiments. Since the majority of substrates tested were not toxic at 1%, the experiments were carried out in a volume of 50 ml in a 500 ml baffled shake flask. The test substrate was added as a stock solution dissolved or diluted in an appropriate solvent (generally acetone). Polyethylene glycol and its derivatives, however, were dissolved either in water or were added neat, depending on viscosity and solubility. Each experiment was done in duplicate. A control without the organism was run for each substrate to verify that chemical modifications were the result of the bioconversion by Candida. The uninoculated controls were run under the same conditions as the inoculated flasks. [0045] The bioconversion tests were undertaken following a shake flask protocol. On the first day, 100 ml of YPD was inoculated with a fresh colony of C. tropicalis H5343 in a 1000 ml baffled shake flask. The YPD contained 3 g/L BACTO® Yeast extract (Difco), 20 g/L BACTO® Peptone (Difco), and 20 g/L BACTO® Dextrose (Difco). One drop of SAG471 (commercially available from Witco) concentrate was added as an antifoaming agent. The culture was then incubated in a 30° C. shaker at 300 rpm for 20 hours. [0046] After a growth phase of 20 hours, the 100 ml YPD culture was transferred to 900 ml YM-Broth. The YM-Broth contained 3 g/L BACTO® Yeast Extract, 3 g/L BACTO® Malt Extract, 5 g/L BACTO® Peptone, and 10 g/L BACTO® Dextrose. The 1000 ml was dispensed to five 2000 ml baffled shake flasks in 200 ml aliquots. Again, one drop of SAG471 concentrate was added to each flask. The cultures were then allowed to grow for 30 hours in a 30° C. shaker at 300 rpm. [0047] The cells were then centrifuged for 5 min. at 4068 g at room temperature. The supernatant was discarded and the cells were resuspended in 1000 ml DCA3. DCA3 is a 0.3 M potassium phosphate buffer, pH 7.5, containing 50 g/L glycerol and 6.7 g/L yeast nitrogen base. After resuspension, 50 ml was transferred to 500 ml baffled shake flasks. The substrate was then added at the optimal concentration determined in the toxicity test described above in Example 2. One drop of SAG 471 concentrate was added to each flask prior to incubation for 48 hours in a 30° C. shaker at 300 rpm. [0048] After 48 hours, the cultures were transferred to 50 ml Falcon tubes and stored frozen at −20° C. until analyzed. [0049] In the standard procedure for extraction, the whole sample was poured into a separation funnel and acidified with 5 ml HCl [12N]. A mix of 30 ml diethyl ether and 20 ml petroleum ether was added and the separation funnel was extracted using standard extraction protocols. The water phase was removed to another separation funnel. Again, a mix of 30 ml diethyl ether and 20 ml petroleum ether was added and the separation funnel shaken in the usual manner. The water phase was then discarded. Water was added to both separation funnels, which were shaken again. The water phase was discarded and both ether phases were combined and filtered into preweighed beakers through sodium sulfate to remove any remaining water. The solvent was then allowed to evaporate in the hood to leave the dried sample behind. [0050] Due to its water-solubility, polyethylene glycol and its derivatives required a different extraction method. 10 ml of sample broth was diluted with 90 ml HPLC-grade acetone and anhydrous magnesium sulfate was added to remove the water. The suspension was stirred for 1-2 min and was subsequently filtered into a preweighed beaker. The filter residue was rinsed with HPLC-grade acetone and the pooled acetone fractions were allowed to evaporate in the hood. The dried sample was weighed and dissolved in an NMR appropriate solvent. C 13 and H-NMR were performed with an adequate amount of recovered sample on a Varian Unity 400 (commercially available from Varian, Inc.). EXAMPLE4 Bioconversion of Dodecene [0051] The bioconversion of dodecene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. A low amount of sample was recovered, about 10% of the starting weight, part of which was the SAG 471 antifoam. The recovered material had significantly reduced α-olefin and terminal CH 3 . The NMR on the sample obtained showed that one major functionality is carboxylic acid. Another is 1,2-diol. It is not certain from the spectra whether there is any C 12 di-acid or if the product is predominantly 11,12-dihydroxydodecanoic acid. Interestingly, a little fatty type unsaturation and polyunsaturation was seen. A minor amount of some unknown aromatic was also seen. EXAMPLE 5 Bioconversion of 1-tetradecene [0052] The bioconversion of 1-tetradecene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.16 g (32%). The NMR analysis was very similar to Example 4. Again, CH 3 and α-olefin were reduced significantly (not necessarily on the same molecules). Again, significant acid was formed, and the 1,2-diol was more distinct, indicating 13,14-dihydroxytetradecanoic acid. Some internal unsaturation was also seen, indicating undesired microbial fatty acid modification. No triglyceride was seen, despite glycerin being utilized as a nutrient. EXAMPLE 6 Bioconversion of 2-heptylundecanoic acid [0053] The bioconversion of 2-heptylundecanoic acid was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.38 g (76%). NMR analysis showed approximately 25% reduction of the chain terminal CH 3 . A significant part of this reduced CH 3 is present as primary hydroxyl and ester of primary hydroxyl. Products formed include hydroxylated 2-heptylundecanoic acid and carboxy-2-heptylundecanoic acid. Interestingly, a small amount of unsaturation, typical of fatty unsaturation, was also seen, plus the CH 2 between olefin groups of fatty polyunsaturation, indicating the organism can convert some of this branched acid to oleic and linoleic acids. Samples from the control showed NMR peaks as expected for the title substrate, along with a small amount of ester of the incompletely oxidized residual alcohol. EXAMPLE 7 Bioconversion of 1-dodecanol [0054] The bioconversion of 1-dodecanol was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.22 g (44%). IR analysis showed acid, ester, and hydroxyl. NMR analysis showed little, if any reduction of the terminal CH 3 to dodecanedioic acid. Apparently approximately 25% of the alcohol functionality oxidized to dodecanoic acid, some of which then esterified. Also, some of the alcohol was oxidized to the n-aldehyde. Approximately 0.4% of the product was n-aldehyde, 4.5-5% was dehydrated aldol condensate, and approximately 12% was aldehyde di-alkyl acetal. Products seen include dodecanal, dodecanoic acid, and 1,12-dodecanedioic acid. In the control, only the starting 1-dodecanol was detected. EXAMPLE 8 Bioconversion of 6-undecanol [0055] The bioconversion of 6-undecanol was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Only 0.14 g, about 28% of the starting weight, was recovered in the extract, indicating that most of the substrate was either totally consumed by the organism, lost to evaporation, or somehow lost in extraction. The extract recovered was nearly identical to the starting material, with the addition of a little SAG 471 antifoam containing polypropylene glycol. EXAMPLE 9 Bioconversion of 12-hydroxystearic acid [0056] The bioconversion of 12-hydroxystearic acid was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. The starting material is about 4% self-esterified, and contains about 4% 12-ketostearic acid. 0.39 g or 78% of sample was recovered. NMR analysis on the control showed no reaction. The finished extract showed a slight decrease of the keto group, a slight decrease in ester, and a slight increase in unsaturation, from about 1% to about 2%. Of most significance, however, is that the presence of terminal CH 3 dropped about 25%, apparently by oxidation to the acid, 7-hydroxyoctadecanedioic acid. EXAMPLE 10 Bioconversion of Castor Oil [0057] The bioconversion of castor oil was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.20 g (40%). NMR analysis on the products showed that the terminal CH 3 was about 25% gone, to 7-hydroxy-9-octadecene-1,18-dioic acid, since no primary alcohol or ester of primary alcohol was seen. However, the triglyceride functionality and the chain secondary hydroxy have undergone an apparent random transesterification, yielding a mix of mono-, di-, and triglycerides, plus an ester of secondary OH and residual free secondary OH. Also seen at a minor level was the ester of 2-enoic acid, possibly formed by oxidation at the secondary hydroxyl. A few other small NMR peaks were unidentified. NMR analysis of the control reaction showed only peaks expected for castor oil, with a little random transesterification (1,2 and 1,3-diglycerides and esterified chain secondary OH), much lower than in the bio-oxidized product. The control sample also showed none of the 2-enoate observed in the bio-oxidized product. EXAMPLE 11 Bioconversion of Plastolein 9232 (epoxidized soybean oil—epoxy soya) [0058] The bioconversion of Plastolein 9232 (epoxidized soybean oil) was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. 0.17 g of the initial sample (34%) was recovered. NMR analysis showed terminal CH 3 was nearly all gone, apparently oxidized to polycarboxy polyhydroxy soybean oil. The epoxy groups were nearly completely opened to diols, some of which were esterified to the newly formed acids, and some possibly transesterified with glyceride. Triglyceride appeared to be only partially intact and may be partially transesterified with the new acids and diols. In contrast, the control reaction showed only the unreacted starting material. EXAMPLE 12 Bioconversion of 2-hexyldecanol (Eutanol G-16) [0059] The bioconversion of 2-hexyldecanol (Eutanol G-16)) was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.34 g or 70%. NMR analysis showed the starting hydroxyl remained unoxidized. The terminal CH3 were depleted approximately 15%, forming primary OH or acid. Products found were carboxy-2-hexyldecanol and hydroxylated 2-hexyldecanol. NMR analysis of the control sample showed only peaks expected for the product, with a few minor components, including a vinylidene olefin and an α-branched aldehyde, both still present in the oxidized product. Analysis of the control revealed no oxidation of the terminal methyl group. EXAMPLE 13 Bioconversion of Hexadecyl acetate [0060] The bioconversion of hexadecyl acetate was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.24 g or 28%. NMR analysis showed that the acetate was completely gone, either lost in extraction or utilized by the organism as an energy source. The resulting primary OH was 85% gone, and the terminal CH 3 was 95% gone, oxidized to 1,16-hexadecanedioic acid. The rate of oxidation appeared higher than for simple alcohols, such as the dodecanol and oleyl alcohol, with hexadecamediac acid as the product. Interestingly, again some unsaturation was present. No triglyceride was seen. EXAMPLE 14 Bioconversion of Hexadecyl pelargonate [0061] The bioconversion of hexadecyl pelargonate was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.24 g (48%). The NMR results showed the terminal CH 3 was reduced about 50%, and the expected 1,16-hexadecanedioic acid was formed. Also, some ester of primary OH, about 25% of the starting ester linkages, and some free primary OH were observed. Significant hydrolysis and oxidation had occurred. EXAMPLE 15 Bioconversion of Sclareol [0062] The bioconversion of sclareol was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was 0.39-g (78%). Proton and C13 APT NMR analysis showed no differences from the starting material. (The sclareol was not pure, showing an unidentified impurity, estimated at about 10%.) EXAMPLE 16 Bioconversion of Polyethylene glycol [0063] The bioconversion of polyethylene glycol was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. This sample was water-soluble and thus not ether extractable. Therefore, the total sample was acidified with HCl, diluted 5:1 in acetone, and the precipitated salts filtered out. The liquid was allowed to evaporate in a hood at room temperature. The residue was then rinsed with acetone-d6 for NMR analysis. Surprisingly this showed some oleic acid, some polypropylene glycol from the SAG-471, and polyethylene glycol. There was no evidence of any PEG ester or terminal acid. Thus any PEG oxidized was not recoverable with the acetone. EXAMPLE 17 Bioconversion of Trans-2-nonene [0064] The bioconversion of trans-2-nonene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Recovery was very low. NMR analysis showed some evidence of a non-2-enoic acid, possibly non-2-enedioic acid, but also triglyceride, internal chain unsaturation, and some much longer chain length material that might be a simple fatty triglyceride. EXAMPLE 18 Bioconversion of 7-trans-tetradecene [0065] The bioconversion of 7-trans-tetradecene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. NMR analysis showed that only 3.5% of the starting terminal CH 3 remained. Most was converted to 7-trans-tetradecenedioic acid and 14-hydroxytetradeceneoic acid, with a small amount of free primary hydroxyl and approximately 0.2-0.3% esterified primary hydroxyl. Interestingly, about 20-25% of the sample contained fatty type cis unsaturation. NMR analysis of the starting olefin showed a similar cis/trans isomer mix. EXAMPLE 19 Bioconversion of 2-ethylhexanoic acid [0066] The bioconversion of 2-ethylhexanoic acid was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. A very small sample was recovered The CH 3 :CH 2 COOH ratio appeared to be about 1:1. Unsaturation was also present, and the CH 2 chain length was closer to oleic acid than to the shorter starting material or to the desired oxidation products. Thus, this material appears to have been nearly totally consumed or lost in extraction. EXAMPLE 20 Bioconversion of 6-dodecyne [0067] The bioconversion of 6-dodecyne was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. Another very low recovery sample (possibly because of volatility during reaction). NMR analysis showed some normal fatty olefinic unsaturation. Some triglyceride and terminal CH 3 amounts were rather high, indicating the recovered sample was high in normal fat, and very low in reaction product. Some residual alkyne and some ester of primary hydroxyl was present. EXAMPLE 21 Bioconversion of Ocenol oleyl alcohol [0068] The bioconversion of ocenol oleyl alcohol was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. NMR analysis showed that the terminal CH 3 was 80% gone, apparently replaced by 1,18-octadecenedioic acid and 18-hydroxyoctadeceneoic acid. In addition, primary OH was significantly reduced, with only 13% remaining as free OH and 4% present as an ester, as well as esters of oleyl alcohol. Thus the sample appears to be high in octadecanedioic acid, but with some 18-hydroxyoleic acid and its esters, as well as esters of oleyl alcohol. This sample was the first to show a little triglyceride (about 1%). EXAMPLE 22 Bioconversion of Generol 122N sterol mix [0069] The bioconversion of a Generol 122N sterol mix was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 3. NMR analysis showed only unreacted starting materials. EXAMPLE 23 Toxicity Tests of Additional Substrates [0070] Additional substrates were to be tested for bioconversion following a slightly different protocol than the one noted above in Example 3. Those substrates also had to be tested for toxicity similar to the test described in Example 2, to determine the highest concentration at which a substrate could be added to a culture broth without being toxic, inhibiting growth, or interfering with the bioconversion process. C. tropicalis was grown in the presence of the substrate at three different concentrations and growth was monitored spectrophotometrically. In contrast to Example 2, all test substrates were added directly to the culture medium without dissolving in solvent. The tests were completed as follows: [0071] On the first day, H5343 was grown in YPD medium (25.0 ml seed culture) overnight on a rotary shaker at 30° C. and 250 rpm. The next day 1.0 ml of the seed culture was used to inoculate a new flask of 50 ml YPD. This culture was grown overnight on a rotary shaker at 30° C. and 250 rpm. 25 ml of the YPD broth was added to each of three 250 ml baffled shake flasks to which either 1%, 0.5% or 0.1% (either w/v or v/v, depending upon the state of the test substrate) of the test substrate had been added. [0072] Two control flasks were each inoculated with H5343 in 25 ml YPD. All flasks were incubated on a rotary shaker at 30° C. and 250 rpm. [0073] After 24 hours incubation, the absorbance at 600 nm of the test and control flask cultures was determined, using uninoculated YPD broth as blank. Cultures were diluted so that the OD 600 nm measured between 0.15 and 0.3. [0074] Table 4 shows that many of the substrates to be tested were not toxic at a concentration of 1% or less. Other substrates were found to inhibit growth at high concentration, but not at lower concentrations, while some inhibited fairly strongly even at the lowest concentration. For strongly inhibitory substrates, a concentration of 0.1-0.2% was chosen for the bioconversion tests. The concentration used in the bioconversion tests is shown in Table 4. [0000] TABLE 4 Spectrophotometric Data of Toxicity Tests of Substrates on C. tropicalis Substrate Absorbance at 600 nm Concentration in Concentration [%] 1.0% 0.5% 0.1% Bioconversion Test Control 34 34 34 Dodecylvinylether 7.33 12.63 20.43 0.5% 1,2-Epoxytetradecane 29.83 10.63 14.83 1.1% 1-Octadecene 34.7 36.33 34.93 1.0% 1-Hexadecene 37.93 35.33 38.99 1.0% 2-Hexydecanoic acid 41.53 35.33 27.73 1.0% Butylsulfone 1.503 2.723 22.033 0.5% 3-Octanone 1.229 0.909 31.33 0.27%  Propylcyclohexane 1.201 34.12 44.13 0.5% Hexyl Ether 3.33 13.21 12.85 0.5% Pentyl Ether 1.813 1.863 2.033 0.25%  Butylcyclohexane 20.33 21.13 22.03 1.0% 2-Butyl-1-octanol 6.213 8.973 10.53 0.5% Butylsulfone 12.25 14.21 5.61 0.25%  Butylmalonic Acid 8.53 27.13 27.43 0.5% 2-Butyloctanoic acid 4.41 4.63 5.87 0.29%  Butylsulfoxide 5.81 11.37 15.63 0.5% 3-Hexylthiophene 1.223 1.033 0.933 0.24%  2-Hexyl-1-decanol 11.93 19.73 24.43 0.5% 1,2-Hexadecanediol 2.013 3.033 3.103 0.5% VMLP Naphtha 2.95 3.8 14.4 0.25%, 0.5% Diisobutylene 7.0 5.05 23.0 0.25%, 0.5% 2-Octanol 0.285 0.235 0.250 Not Tested Substrate Concentration [%] 0.6% 0.3% 0.06% 3-Butyl- 1.18 0.245 12.5 0.1% (ethylpentyl)oxa- zolidine 2-Methyl-3-heptanone 0.125 0.099 19.2 0.1% Ethylcyclohexane 16.5 2.03 9.45 0.2% Methylcyclohexane 0.16 15.6 13.7 0.3% EXAMPLE 24 Bioconversion Testing of Additional Substrates (Phase II) [0075] Using the data generated in Example 23, the bioconversion testing was performed using substrate concentrations determined to be neither lethal nor inhibitory in concentrations noted above in Table 4. The test substrate was added directly to a shake flask, either as a solid or as a liquid. A revised shake flask protocol was utilized for the evaluation of yeast strains for diacid production activity. [0076] A single isolated colony was inoculated into 50 ml YPD broth in a 500 ml baffled shake flask. The mixture was then incubated 24 hours at 30° C. and 300 rpm on a rotary shaker-incubator. [0077] 15 ml of the YPD-grown culture was then transferred into 135 ml DCA2 medium in a 1000 ml baffled shake flask for a total volume of 150 ml. (The DCA2 medium was prepared by combining 3 g BACTO® Peptone, 6 g yeast extract, 3 g sodium acetate, 7.2 g K 2 HPO 4 , and 9.3 g KH 2 PO 4 with Milli-Q® Water to produce 1L. Then, 117 ml of the DCA2 mix was added to 15 ml 50% (w/v) glycerol in a 1000 ml baffle flask and autoclaved. The mixture was then allowed to cool and added to 3 ml 50×YNB (334 g/L).) 100 μl of sterile 1:10 SAG 471 antifoam solution was added to each flask. The mixture was then incubated for 24 hours at 30° C. and 300 rpm on a rotary shaker-incubator. [0078] Cells from the DCA2-grown culture were then harvested by centrifugation at 5000 rpm for 5 minutes. The spent broth was poured off and each cell pellet resuspended in 150 ml DCA3 without glycerol (approximately 1.1 times concentration of DCA2 culture). (The DCA3 was prepared by adding 975 ml 0.3 M KHPO 4 buffer, pH 7.5 (0.3 M K 2 HPO 4 solution adjusted to pH 7.5 with 0.3 M KH 2 PO 4 solution), to 25 ml YNB. The mixture was increased to 1 L with Milli-Q® water, mixed, and filter sterilized.) A 50 ml aliquot of this DCA3 suspension was added to a 500 ml baffled shake flask containing appropriate amount of substrate, as determined by toxicity analysis. 100 μl of a 1:10 dilution of SAG 471 antifoam was added to each flask. The flask was then incubated at 30° C. and 300 rpm on a rotary shaker-incubator. [0079] One hour after initial induction, 2 ml of a sterile 50% (w/v) glycerol solution was added to each flask. Eight hours after induction, an additional 1 ml of the glycerol solution was added to each flask. The reaction was stopped after 24-30 hours in all flasks by placing the flasks in a −20° C. freezer. [0080] For the extraction of the product, the frozen shake flask sample was first thawed in a 37° C. water bath. 5 ml 12N HCl was added to the sample flask and well mixed. The acidified sample was poured into a 250 ml separatory funnel. 60 ml ethyl ether and 40 ml petroleum ether were combined into the empty sample shake flask and swirled well to mix and rinse flask. This was added to the separatory funnel, which was capped and shaken for 1 minute, pausing occasionally to release gas pressure. After standing for 5 minutes, the water layer was removed by decanting into the empty shake flask. The upper solvent layer was decanted into 50 ml centrifuge tubes and centrifuged for 15 minutes in a tabletop centrifuge at 3500 rpm. The ether layer was transferred by pipette to a collection beaker for evaporation. [0081] This extraction procedure was repeated on the aqueous layer with the exception that 30 ml ethyl ether and 20 ml petroleum ether were added to the aqueous layer prior to extraction. The two ether extracts were combined in the beaker and the solvents were allowed to dry at ambient temperatures, leaving product behind. The product was redissolved in a small amount of ethyl ether and was transferred to a tared HPLC vial and the solvent was allowed to evaporate. The sample weight was taken by calculating the difference between the weigh of the sample+HPLC vial and the tared weight of the vial itself. The percent recovery was determined by dividing the weight of the recovered sample by the weight of the sample originally added to the flask and multiplying the result by 100. [0082] The sample was then submitted first for NMR analysis and, if evidence of oxidation was observed, was later submitted for GC/MS analysis. EXAMPLE 25 Bioconversion of Butylcyclohexane [0083] The bioconversion of butylcyclohexane was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was low; 0.05 g was recovered from 0.537 g starting material (9.3% recovery). This low recovery reflects the volatility of the test substrate. The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that of the sample recovered, a small but significant portion was determined to be the polypropylene glycol from the SAG 471 antifoam. It was found to contain considerable carboxylic acid. Some portion of that carboxylic acid was thought to be the anticipated product. The sample was found to contain material that was far more linear than expected, and demonstrated chain unsaturation and polyunsaturation. It also showed a little triglyceride. Finally, the sample demonstrated an oxygen bearing CH, indicating oxidation of the chain off the ring, to cyclohexyl ester or ether. The products noted were 2-butylcyclohexanone, 4-cyclohexylbutanol, 4-(2-hydroxycyclohexyl)butanol, 4-(2-hydroxycyclohexyl)butanoic acid, cyclohexylbutanoic acid, and 4-cyclohexyl-2-hydroxybutanoic acid. [0084] The GC/MS results indicated that the expected reaction product, cyclohexylbutyrate, as well as the intermediate alcohol, was formed. Surprisingly, oxidations of the cyclohexane ring were also found. Additionally, some oxidation of the alpha carbon on the butyl group was observed as well. Since recovery was low, the individual reaction products represented only small quantities, but indicated additional oxidation capabilities for this organism besides ω-oxidation. As these results were obtained in shake flask experiments, the product type and quantity might be influenced by a controlled substrate feed in a fermenter vessel. EXAMPLE 26 Bioconversion of Propylcyclohexane [0085] The bioconversion of propylcyclohexane was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was only 0.049 g from 0.252 g starting material (19.4% recovery). This low recovery reflects the volatility of the test substrate. The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that of the sample recovered, a small but significant portion was determined to be the polypropylene glycol from the SAG 471 antifoam. The sample, however, was found to contain considerable carboxylic acid, with a portion of that carboxylic acid was thought to be the anticipated product. The sample was found to contain material that was far more linear than expected, and contained chain unsaturation and polyunsaturation. The methyl to acid ratio indicates considerable di-acid in the sample. As with the butylcyclohexane reaction, an oxygen bearing CH, indicating oxidation of the chain off the ring to cyclohexyl ester or ether, was observed. The products found were 3-(2-hydroxycyclohexyl)propanoic acid, cyclohexylpropanoic acid and 3-cyclohexyl-2-hydroxypropanoic acid. [0086] The GC/MS results were similar to what was observed with butylcyclohexyane in that the expected product, cyclohexylpropionic acid (the main product), was detected. Oxidation of the cyclohexane ring was also found in small amounts. Additionally, some oxidation of the alpha carbon on the propyl group was observed as well. EXAMPLE 27 Bioconversion of Ethylcyclohexane [0087] The bioconversion of ethylcyclohexane was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.052 g from 0.100 g starting material (52% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate the presence of a little BHT and polypropylene glycol, plus the same unknown aromatic. It is a predominantly linear carboxylic acid, higher in di-acid than the methylcyclohexane product. Also present was some triglyceride, a 1,3-diglyceride, and the same sterol as above, though at a lower level. No starting material remained. However, a little cyclohexylacetic acid has also apparently been made, but far less than the fatty derived material. [0088] The results of the GC/MS analysis were in agreement with the NMR data in detecting the expected product, cyclohexylacetate, in small amounts. In this case, however, neither oxidations of the cyclohexane ring nor of the alpha carbon of the acetyl group were detected. EXAMPLE 28 Bioconversion of Methylcyclohexane [0089] The bioconversion of methylcyclohexane was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.055 g from 0.150 g starting material (36.7% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that the vast majority of the small sample recovered was a fatty triglyceride with some 1,3-diglyceride and some carboxylic acid. Also seen was some highly branched material, possibly some type of sterol like ergosterol (though not with a double bond at position 5). A little polypropylene glycol (antifoam), BHT (from extraction solvent), and some unidentified aromatic were also found. No methylcyclohexane was seen. Any product was minor, if present at all. Because of these results, this sample was not submitted for GC/MS. EXAMPLE 29 Bioconversion of Naringenin (4′,5,7-trihydroxyflavanone) [0090] The bioconversion of naringenin (4′,5,7-trihydroxyflavanone) was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Naringenin was selected for testing to determine if C. tropicalis was capable of oxidizing it to the corresponding isoflavone. Recovery was 0.222 g from 0.503 g starting material (44.1% recovery). Because of solubility problems, the NMR for this sample was examined in acetone-d6 instead of CDCl 3 . The recovered sample was nearly identical to the starting material. The only loss was that of a minor ethyl acetate contaminant in the starting material, probably a crystallization solvent. New peaks were only a minor amount of residual ethyl ether, trace SAG 471 antifoam, and a small amount of unsaturated fatty acid, possibly partly oxidized to diacid. This is probably a fatty acid made by the organism. No new aromatic components were seen. Low recovery was probably due to poor extraction due to partial solubility in water, though it is possible the material may have been metabolized. The conclusion from this test is that naringenin is not oxidized by C. tropicalis. [0091] The GC/MS results confirmed the NMR analysis, indicating nothing but starting material in the extracted sample. EXAMPLE 30 Bioconversion of 2-Hexyl-1-decanol (Guerbet alcohol) [0092] The bioconversion of 2-hexyl-1-decanol (Guerbet alcohol) was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was selected to determine how easily the terminal methyl of the hexyl moiety is oxidized. It is also another example of a Guerbet alcohol and offers another test of the capability of C. tropicalis to oxidize a primary alcohol attached to a one-carbon chain on a branched compound. Recovery was good, 0.244 g from 0.255 g starting material (95.7% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that none of the starting alcohol functionality had oxidized to acid (or ester). However, about 16% of the alcohol had esterified. Significant carboxylic acid functionality was seen. Approximately 9% of original terminal CH 3 had oxidized to alcohol, of which 18% was esterified. About 55-60% of terminal CH 3 had oxidized to acids, part of which were esterified. Residual CH 3 was still significant. Interestingly, there was a little unsaturation. [0093] The GC/MS profile demonstrated that both the C-8 and the C-6 side chain methyl groups were oxidized to the alcohol and then the acid, as expected. Products found were 2-(6-hydroxyhexyl)-1-docanol, 2-hexyl-1,10-decanediol, 7-hydroxymethyl-pentadecanoic acid, 10-hydroxy-9-n-hexyl-decanoic acid, 15-hydroxy-7-hydroxymethyl-pentadecanoic acid, 15-hydroxy-9-hydroxymethyl-pentadecanoic acid, and 7-hydroxymethyl-1,15-pentadecanedioic acid. There was no evidence of any oxidation of the initial primary alcohol, however. EXAMPLE 31 Bioconversion of 2-Hexyldecanoic acid [0094] The bioconversion of 2-hexyldecanoic acid was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was chosen to determine if a triacid product could be made from the branched acid starting material. Recovery was 0.469 g from 0.528 g starting material (88.8% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that slightly over half the starting terminal CH 3 groups remained, while less than half were oxidized to acid or hydroxyl. Some was esterified to branched acid, and some to linear. It was not certain if there was any tri-acid, or only mono and di-acids. Again, some chain unsaturation was seen. The products found were 2-(6-hydroxyhexyl)-1-decanoic acid, 10-hydroxy-2-(6-hydroxyhexyl)-decanoic acid, 7-carboxy-pentadecanoic acid, 9-carboxy-pentadecanoic acid, 15-hydroxy-7-carboxy-pentadecanoic acid, and 15-hydroxy-9-carboxy-pentadecanoic acid. [0095] The GC/MS profile showed that both the C-8 and the C-6 side chain methyl groups were oxidized to the alcohol and at least one side chain was oxidized to acid. Unfortunately there was no evidence of any formation of the triacid. In principle, since the analogous Guerbet alcohol described previously showed oxidation of both terminal methyl groups to the acid, this material should also oxidize both. EXAMPLE 32 Bioconversion of 1-Hexadecene [0096] The bioconversion of 1-hexadecene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. A longer-chain α-olefin than was previously tested was chosen to confirm that the (ω,ω-1)-dihydroxy fatty acid could be produced. Recovery was 0.358 g, from 0.502 g starting material (71.3% recovery). The diols made may have been slightly water soluble and partially lost in extraction. The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that about 70% of terminal CH 3 was oxidized to 15,16-dihydroxyhexadecanoic acid. About 50% of vinyl unsaturation remained, 50% oxidized to diol. IR indicated the presence of some ester. Again, some chain unsaturation was seen, indicating the organism may be making fatty acids. [0097] The GC/MS data confirmed the results of the NMR. The (ω,ω-1)-dihydroxy fatty acid was formed as the major product in the reaction. EXAMPLE 33 Bioconversion of 2-Butyl-1-octanol [0098] The bioconversion of 2-butyl-1-octanol was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This Guerbet alcohol was selected to determine if the terminal methyl of the butyl group could be oxidized to the acid. Recovery was 0.201 g from 0.254 g starting material (79.1% recovery). IR examination showed some carboxylic acid, and residual OH, plus a little ester. NMR indicated about half the CH 3 groups had oxidized, mostly to acid, but a little to terminal OH. The alpha branched OH appears to be un-oxidized, but about 10-15% of these starting OH groups were esterified. Again, a significant amount of unsaturated fatty material was seen. The products found were 2-(6-hydroxybutyl)-1-docanol, 2-propyl-1,8-octanediol, 7-hydroxymethyl-undecanoic acid, 8-hydroxy-7-n-propyl-octanoic acid, 11-hydroxy-5-hydroxymethyl-undecanoic acid, 11-hydroxy-7-hydroxymethyl-undecanoic acid, and 7-hydroxymethyl-1,11-undecanedioic acid. [0099] The GC/MS profile showed that both the C-4 and the C-6 side chain methyl groups were oxidized to the alcohol and then the acid, as expected. As with 2-hexyl-1-decanol, there was no evidence of any oxidation of the initial primary alcohol. EXAMPLE 34 Bioconversion of Dihexyl ether [0100] The bioconversion of hexyl ether was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was chosen for testing to determine if the R-group attached to the aliphatic chain could be an ether. Recovery was 1.049 g from 0.261 g starting material (402% recovery). The sample was diluted in acetone-d6 for NMR examination. As with other samples, there was a little unsaturated fatty acid, some polypropylene glycol (SAG 471), and a minor amount of triglyceride. Of primary concern, however, was the ether bond remaining intact, and about 80% of the CH 3 oxidizing to carboxylic acid. [0101] The GC/MS data confirmed that the expected diacid, 7-oxa-1,13-tridecanedioic acid, was the major product. EXAMPLE 35 Bioconversion of Dodecylvinyl ether [0102] The bioconversion of dodecylvinyl ether was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was selected for testing to determine the fate of the terminal diol attached directly to the ether functionality. It was also of interest to determine if the terminal methyl group could be oxidized. Recovery was 0.233 g from 0.260 g starting material (89.6% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that the vinyl group was missing. Also, about 60% of the terminal CH 3 had oxidized to dodecanedioic acid, with a small amount of primary OH. However, the peaks demonstrating carboxylate were stronger than expected, indicating C 12 diacid formation. Other major functionalities noted included an alkyl alkoxy glycolate (ether-ester), and surprisingly, an acetaldehyde di-alkyl acetal. [0103] The GC/MS profile demonstrated that although there appears to be a tiny amount of the expected (ω,ω-1)-dihydroxy fatty acid the major product was the C 12 diacid. It appears that the terminal diol was cleaved and the ether group was oxidized to the acid, with the alcohol intermediate detected as well. EXAMPLE 36 Bioconversion of Dibutyl sulfone [0104] The bioconversion of dibutyl sulfone was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.209 g from 0.26 g starting material (80.4% recovery). NMR showed a little SAG 471, a little unsaturated fatty acid, and minor unidentified material, but predominantly unreacted dibutyl sulfone. No GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 37 Bioconversion of Butylmalonic acid [0105] The bioconversion of butylmalonic acid was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.325 g from 0.253 g starting material (128% recovery). This sample was dissolved in acetone-d6 for NMR analysis, which indicated considerable unreacted starting material remained, with some normal unsaturated fatty acid, a little SAG 471, and little or no desired tri-acid. No GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 38 Bioconversion of Butyl sulfoxide [0106] The bioconversion of Butyl sulfoxide was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.152 g from 0.259 g starting material (58.7% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that a small amount of unsaturated fatty acid was present, along with some SAG 471. The main components however were approximately 80% dibutylsulfoxide and approximately 20% dibutyl sulfone. No GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 39 Bioconversion of 2-Butyloctanoic acid [0107] The bioconversion of 2-butyloctanoic acid was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.114 g from 0.144 g starting material (79.2% recovery). NMR showed predominantly unreacted starting material, with a little polypropylene glycol (antifoam), BHT, and minor ether peroxides and other by-products. Based on data from the corresponding Guerbet alcohol, one would have expected this material to be oxidized to some degree. EXAMPLE 40 Bioconversion of 3-Hexylthiophene [0108] The bioconversion of 3-hexylthiophene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.109 g from 0.122 g starting material (89.3% recovery). NMR indicated the material was mostly unreacted starting material. Several minor peaks were seen, which remain unidentified, but did not indicate the expected oxidation of the terminal CH 3 to acid. Instead, it appears some polyhydric material was formed, possibly from the solubilization of a sugar adduct to an organically soluble material. A small amount of polypropylene glycol and minor unsaturated fatty acid or ester was also seen. No GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 41 Bioconversion of 1-Octadecene [0109] The bioconversion of 1-octadecene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.287 g from 0.502 g starting material (57.2% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that some fatty acid was present, and some residual α-olefin, but about half the olefin had oxidized to 1,2-diol, and about 80% of the terminal CH 3 had oxidized to acid, indicating that the expected (ω,ω-1)-dihydroxy fatty acid, 17,18-dihydroxyoctadecanoic acid was formed. No GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 42 Bioconversion of Dipentyl ether [0110] The bioconversion of pentyl ether was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Like the hexyl ether, this substrate was tested to determine if the terminal methyl groups of the pentyl chains could be oxidized. Recovery was 0.100 g from 0.123 g starting material (81.3% recovery). NMR results indicate the ether remained intact, and about 50% of the terminal CH 3 was oxidized to 6-oxa-1,11-undecanedioic acid. Some intermediate primary OH and an ester of primary OH was also seen. This result confirmed that the terminal methyl on the C 5 chain could be oxidized to the acid. No GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 43 Bioconversion of 3-Octanone [0111] The bioconversion of 3-octanone was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was tested to determine if C. tropicalis could oxidize the terminal methyl group (either the C 4 or C 2 ) attached to a ketone functionality. Recovery was 0.069 g from 0.135 g starting material (51% recovery). NMR showed some of the product to be fatty acid. Some PPG and some BHT (ether stabilizer) was also seen. Interestingly, the 3-octanone was nearly completely gone, with 3-octanol being seen. Product loss was likely due to volatility during solvent evaporation after extraction. No GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 44 Bioconversion of 1,2-Epoxytetradecane [0112] The bioconversion of 1,2-epoxytetradecane was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was selected to confirm the results of the tests on Epoxy Soya, where it was found that the epoxy rings were split to form a diol. Recovery was 0.349 g from 0.534 g starting material (65.4% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that epoxy was completely gone, replaced by diol. Most of the terminal CH 3 (about 80%) was oxidized to the acid 13,14-dihydroxytetradecanoic acid. Since the NMR results were fairly convincing, no GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 45 Bioconversion of 1,2-hexadecanediol [0113] The bioconversion of 1,2-hexadecanediol was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was tested to demonstrate the ability to form a (ω,ω-1)-dihydroxy fatty acid. Recovery was 0.138 g from 0.253 g starting material (54.5% recovery). NMR shows the 1,2-diol to be unchanged, as expected from olefin studies. But, interestingly, CH 3 oxidation to the 15,16-dihydroxyhexadecanoic acid was lower than seen with octadecene, because the starting material was solid. Conversion was only about 30%. Some fatty unsaturation and minor polypropylene glycol were also seen. Since the NMR results were fairly convincing, no GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 46 Bioconversion of Di-isobutylene [0114] The bioconversion of di-isobutylene was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This substrate was tested because it is a potential solvent for use in the C18:1 diacid recovery process. It was important to determine the fate of any residual DIB that might be left in recovery side streams that could potentially be recycled back to later fermentations. Recovery was 0.029 g from 0.125 g starting material (23.2% recovery). The NMR results showed long chain linear unsaturated mono and di-acids, about 15% of which were present as triglycerides. Also seen was a little polypropylene glycol (from the SAG 471 antifoam) along with some trace BHT, possibly a stabilizer in the extraction solvent. There was little evidence of any branched materials, indicating the test substrate was either degraded or was lost during testing or extraction. It also indicated that no non-volatile oxidation products were formed in the process. Because of this result, no GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 47 Bioconversion of VMLP Naptha [0115] The bioconversion of VMLP naptha was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.024 g from 0.125 g starting material (19.2% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate that little or no VMLP oxidation product appeared to have been formed. The product was predominantly a mix of linear unsaturated mono and di-acids, with a small amount of polypropylene glycol. Interestingly, little or no triglyceride was present. Because of this result, no GC/MS analysis was performed. EXAMPLE 48 Bioconversion of 2-Methyl-3-heptanone [0116] The bioconversion of 2-methyl-3-heptanone was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. This was another test for the ability of C. tropicalis to oxidize the terminal methyl group of an aliphatic chain attached to a semi-complex ketone functionality. Recovery was 0.062 g from 0.050 g starting material (124% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate the presence of a blend of triglyceride, 1,3-diglyceride, possible ergosterol, BHT, and polypropylene glycol. Some residual starting material was detected. In such a mix, it is difficult to say if desired product has been formed or not. This was not submitted for GC/MS analysis. EXAMPLE 49 Bioconversion of 3-Butyl-2(1-ethylpentyl)oxazolidine [0117] The bioconversion of 3-butyl-2(1-ethylpentyl)oxazolidine was tested following the procedures set forth in Example 24. Recovery was 0.021 g from 0.100 g starting material (21% recovery). The NMR results obtained for this sample indicate the presence of some apparent fatty derived material, though less than the other samples. BHT, other minor aromatics and polypropylene glycol seen in the other samples were again seen. No residual starting material was seen. Also, the branched carbon between the oxygen and nitrogen of the starting material was totally absent. The low level of the oxidation product in this complex mix made identification difficult. But some significant CH 3 was seen, indicating something from the starting material, but ring degradation rather than acid formation. It is also possible that some desired product, may have been made, but being amphoteric, was more soluble in water than in extraction solvent. This sample was not submitted for GC/MS analysis. EXAMPLE 50 Bioconversion of The bio-oxidation of 1,4-diethylbenzene [0118] NMR on the sample obtained showed considerable long chain unsaturated fatty material was formed, which was partially oxidized to di-acid. Considerable sterol was also present, plus polypropylene glycol, and a little BHT. Other major aromatic compounds were present, but the starting 1,4-diethyl benzene appeared to be mostly reacted. The predominant product was 4-ethylphenylacetic acid. There appeared to be little or no 1,4-phenylenediacetic acid, the possible di-oxidized product. [0119] A summary of the results of the bioconversion testing described in the above Examples is set forth below in Table 5. [0000] TABLE 5 Summary of screening results Chemical Class/R Group Phase Chemical Substrate Reaction or Major Reaction Product Fatty Acids or Fatty I 12-Hydroxystearic acid 7-hydroxyoctadecanedioic acid Acid Esters I Hexadecyl Pelargonate Terminal methyls oxidized to acids Ester linkage hydrolyzed I Castor Oil Terminal methyls oxidized to acids Considerable transesterification I Hexadecyl Acetate Terminal methyls oxidized to acids Ester linkage hydrolyzed Ethers II Dihexyl Ether α,ω-Diacid II Dipentyl Ether Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II Dodecylvinyl Ether Dodecanedioic acid Alpha Olefins I Dodecene (ω,ω-1) Dihydroxy Fatty Acid I Tetradecene (ω,ω-1) Dihydroxy Fatty Acid II Hexadecene (ω,ω-1) Dihydroxy Fatty Acid II Octadecene (ω,ω-1) Dihydroxy Fatty Acid Alkenes I trans-2-nonene 2-enoic acid (recovery low) I 7-trans-tetradecene 7-trans-tetradecenedioic acid II Diisobutylene No reaction/Volatility Alkynes I 6-Dodecyne No Reaction/Volatility Alcohols I 1-Dodecanol Terminal OH oxidized to acid Some Terminal methyl oxidized I Oleyl Alcohol Octadecenedioic acid I 6-Undecanol No Reaction II 2-Octanol Toxic at 0.1% Branched Alcohols II 2-Hexyldecanol Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II 2-Butyl-1-Octanol Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II 1,2-Hexadecanediol (ω,ω-1) Dihydroxy Fatty Acid Branched Acids I 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid Too Volatile I 2-Heptylundecanoic Acid Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II 2-Hexyldecanoic Acid Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II 2-Butyloctanoic Acid No reaction II Butylmalonic Acid No reaction Ketones II 3-Methyl-3-heptanone No Reaction II 3-Octanone No Reaction Epoxides I Epoxy Soya Terminal methyls oxidized to acids Epoxy groups open to diols II 1,2-epoxytetradecane (ω,ω-1) Dihydroxy Fatty Acid Sulfur Compounds II Butylsulfone No reaction II Butylsulfoxide No reaction II 3-Hexylthiophene Screening in Process Aliphatic Amines I Dodecylamine Toxic at 0.01% Ring Compounds I Limonene No Reaction/Volatility I Sclareol No Reaction I Generol No Reaction II Butylcyclohexane Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II Propylcyclohexane Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II Ethylcyclohexane Terminal methyl oxidized to acid II Methylcyclohexane No Reaction II 3-Butyl-2-(1-ethylpentyl) No Reaction Oxazolidine Miscellaneous I PEG No Reaction I PEG200 Monolaurate Terminal methyls oxidized to acids I PEG200 Dilaurate Terminal methyls oxidized to acids II VMLP Naphtha No reaction [0120] It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein and that the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.
A bioprocess for producing carboxylic acids, alcohols and aldehydes is provided by culturing Candida sp. in a fermentation medium containing various defined substrates.
2
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to an improved process for dyeing and pigmenting of coating materials and plastics with pigment salts and to novel pigment salts. The use of organic pigments for coloring plastics and in coating materials is already known. The object of the present invention was to provide application methods and pigments having improved performance and synthetic properties. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a process for coloring polymeric materials (preferably coating materials or plastics) comprising dyeing or pigmenting said polymeric materials with a pigment salt having the following formula (I): ##STR2## and the tautomeric forms thereof, wherein M n+ is one or more n-valent cations. Although one tautomeric form is represented above for formula (I), the other tautomeric forms are, of course, also included within the scope of the invention. Suitable cations for such salts are the metal cations that are conventional for pigments, although it is also possible for part of the charge of the anion to be compensated by hydrogen ions (H + ). In a preferred embodiment, the cations M n+ are those of metal atoms (i.e., Z n+ ) and hydrogen atoms (i.e., H + ), especially mixtures of 2m/n Z n+ ions together with 2(1-m) H + ions, wherein Z denotes one or more n-valent metal atoms, n is an integer from 1 to 3, and m is from 0.7 to 1.0. In preferred embodiments, Z n+ denotes an alkali metal cation (where n is 1) such as Li + , Na + , K + , Cs + , and Rb + ; an alkaline earth metal cation (where n is 2) such as Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ , Sr 2+ , and Ba 2+ ; and the cations Al 3+ , Pb 2+ , Sn 2+ , Zn 2+ , Ni 2+ , Co 2+ , Co 3+ , Mn 2+ , Mn 3+ , Fe 2+ , Fe 3+ , Cr 3+ , Ti 3+ , Cu + , Cu 2+ , and Cd 2+ . It is, of course, also possible to use mixtures of such metal ions. In particularly preferred embodiments, Z n+ represents Cu + , Na + , K + , Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ , Sr 2+ , Al 3+ , and Mn 2+ or mixtures thereof. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The preparation of the potassium salt of a compound having an anion moiety of formula (I) (that is, where Z n+ is K + ) is described in J. Med. Chem., 9, 610-612 (1966). Potassium salts, silver salts, and sodium salts are mentioned in J. Biol. Chem., 71,497-499 (1927). Salts with other cations and their use as colorants are not described in these references. The invention, therefore, also relates to novel pigment salts having an anion moiety of the formula (I) in which Z is as defined above, with the exception that Z n+ does not include K + , Ag + , or Na + . The salts of the invention can be prepared from the free substance of the formula (I) with M n+ is H + by reacting solutions of this substance in appropriate solvents, preferably water, with salts of the metals Z and isolating the precipitate. Examples of appropriate salts of the metals Z are those with the fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, sulfate, nitrate, acetate, phosphate, oxide, hydroxide, carbonate, and hydrogen carbonate anions Another possible method for preparing salts of the formula (I) involves salt exchange, which comprises adding an excess of a metal salt having a different cation from that in the salt of the formula (I) to solutions of a particular salt of the formula (I) in, for example, hot water, thereby bringing about exchange of the cation in salts of the formula (I). A further preparative method involves the addition of desired metal ions (Z n+ ) during synthesis of the basic anion structure of the pigment salts of the formula (I). This basic structure can be synthesized, for example, as described in J. Med. Chem., 9, 610-612 (1966) or J. Biol. Chem., 71, 497 (1927), by oxidative dimerization of 5-aminouracil in accordance with the following scheme: ##STR3## In the cited literature references, the oxidizing agent used is potassium hexacyanoferrate(III). Other suitable oxidizing agents are, for example, air, oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorite, persulfates, percarbonates, peracetic add, performic acid, and the like, with the addition of catalysts also being possible. A further preparation method is described in J. Am. Chem. Soc., 77, 2243-2248 (1955). However, the basic structure can also be prepared dimerizing 6-azidouracil, 6-hydroxylaminouracil, 5,6-diaminouracil, 6-amino-5-nitrosouracil, 5-nitro-, 5-nitroso-, or 5-aminobarbituric acid or by deaminating (e.g., with nitrous acid) 2,4,6,8-tetraamino-1,3,5,7,9,10-hexaazaanthracene. Other possibilities for the synthesis are the condensation reactions carried out in accordance with the following scheme: ##STR4## The compounds of the formula (I) are obtained in a form that is already suitable for pigment use or can be converted into the appropriate form by known aftertreatment processes. The compounds of formula (I) can be finely divided by milling with or without milling auxiliaries such as inorganic salts or sand, optionally in the presence of solvents such as toluene, xylene, dichlorobenzene, or N-methylpyrrolidone. The color strength and transparency of the pigment can he influenced by varying the aftertreatment. Compounds of formula (I) can be used in particular as pigments for various known polymeric materials, especially high molecular weight organic materials. Examples of high molecular weight organic materials that can be colored or pigmented with compounds of the formula (I) include cellulose ethers and cellulose esters, such as ethyl cellulose, nitrocellulose, cellulose acetate, and cellulose butyrate, naturally occurring resins or synthetic resins, such as polymer resins or condensation resins, for example, amino resins, especially urea/formaldehyde and melamine/formaldehyde resins, alkyd resins, phenolic resins, polycarbonates, polyolefins, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl propionate, polyamides, superpolyamides, polyvinyl acetate, polymers and copolymers of acrylic esters, methacrylic esters, acrylonitrile, acrylamide, butadiene, styrene, polyurethanes or polyester, rubber, casein, and silicon and silicone resins, either individually or in mixtures with other organic or inorganic dyes and pigments, for example, inorganic white pigments such as titanium dioxide (rutile). It is generally not critical whether the high molecular weight organic compounds mentioned above are present as plastic masses or melts or as spinning solutions, in preparations such as flush pastes with organic liquids, in coating compositions such as physically or oxidatively drying coating materials, stoving enamels, reactive coatings, in two-pack coating, materials, emulsion paints for weather-resistant coatings and size colors, or in printing inks for printing such as paper, textiles, and sheet metal. Depending on the intended use, it may prove advantageous to use the pigments according to the invention as toners or in the form of preparations. The compounds of the formula (I) are preferably used in a quantity of from about 0.1 to about 10% by weight, based on the high molecular weight organic materials to be pigmented. The colorations that are obtained, for example, in plastics, fibers, coatings materials, or prints, are distinguished by color strength, by good dispersability, by good fastness to overcoating, migration, heat, light, and weather, and by a good gloss. The following examples further illustrate details for the process of this invention. The invention, which is set forth in the foregoing disclosure, is not to be limited either in spirit or scope by these examples. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that known variations of the conditions of the following procedures can be used. Unless otherwise noted, all temperatures are degrees Celsius and all pads and percentages are parts by weight and percentages by weight, respectively. EXAMPLES Example 1 ##STR5## The potassium salt having the above formula was prepared according to the method of J. Med. Chem., 9, 611 (1966). The potassium content was 19.0-20.1% (corresponding to a value for m of 0.75-0.81). The dry pigment was milled and used for coloring as described in the following examples. Example 2 Transparent Coloring in Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC-P) 0.1 part of the pigment from Example 1 was mixed with 100 parts of PVC compound in a slow-running laboratory mixer, placed onto a rotating laboratory roller-type mixing apparatus, homogenized, and drawn off as a sheet. The transparent orange colorations that were obtained exhibited excellent light fastness, weather fastness, and migration fastness. Example 3 Opaque Coloring in PVC-P 0.2 part of the pigment from Example 1, together with 10 parts of titanium dioxide (rutile type), were mixed with 100 pads of PVC compound and the mixture was homogenized at 160° C. The sheet drawn off from the laboratory roller-type mixer had an opaque orange color. The colorations showed very good migration fastness, light fastness, and weather fastness. Example 4 Translucent and Opaque Coloring in High-Density Polyethylene (HD-PE) and Polypropylene 100 parts of commercial polyethylene granules were mixed with 0.2 part of the pigment from Example 1 in a slow-running mixing drum. The resultant granules were homogenized at 170° C. on an extruder and were drawn off to give fiat strips, the resultant strips were granulated, and the resultant granules were molded on a screw injection molding machine at temperatures above 200° C. When the molding temperature was raised from 200° C. to 320° C., no change in color was observed. The same results were obtained in opaque colorings with titanium dioxide (rutile type) in HD-polyethylene and in crystalline polypropylene, both as transparent pigmentations and as opaque pigmentations. Example 5 Coloring of Polystyrene (PS) and Butadiene-Modified Polystyrene (SB) 0.1 part of the pigment from Example 1 was mixed with 0.5 part of titanium dioxide (ruffle type) and 100 pads of PS granules (or SB granules) and molded on a screw injection molding machine with increased backpressure. The resulting moldings exhibited an orange color and uniform pigment distribution. Example 6 Coloring of ABS 0.5 part of the pigment from Example I was mixed with 4 parts of titanium dioxide (rutile type) and 100 pads of ABS powder, the mixture was plastified in an internal mixer at 180° C., homogenized, discharged through a roller apparatus, and granulated by conventional methods, and the resultant granules were molded on a screw injection molding machine to give moldings having an orange color. At processing temperatures from 220° C. to 280° C. and long residence times, no changes in color was observed. Equally good results were obtained in polymer blends of ABS/polycarbonate composition. Example 7 Coloring of Polycarbonate (PC) and Polycarbonate/Polybutylene Terephthalate (PC/PBT) 0.2 part of the pigment from Example 1 was mixed dry with a commercial polycarbonate, the mixture was melted at 290° C. in a twin-screw extruder, and the pigment was dispersed. The homogeneously colored PC was regranulated and the resultant regranulate was processed by conventional injection molding methods at temperatures of up to 340° C. No changes in color of the orange moldings were observed at different temperatures. Likewise in PC/PBT, the pigment was heat resistant without changing color at processing temperatures from 250° C. to 290° C. Example 8 4 g of finely milled pigment prepared as in Example 1 were dispersed in 92 g of a stoving enamel having the following composition: 33% alkyd resin 15% melamine resin 5% glycol monomethyl ether 34% xylene 13% butanol Suitable alkyd resins are products based on synthetic and vegetable fatty acids such as coconut oil, castor oil, ricinene oil, linseed oil, and the like. Urea resins can be used instead of melamine resins. After dispersion had taken place, the pigmented enamel was applied to sheets of paper, glass, or plastic or to metal foils and then stored at 130° C. for 30 minutes. The coatings exhibited very good resistance to light and weathering, as well as good fastness to overcoating. This stoving enamel was painted onto white paper and stoved at 130° C., thereby producing an orange color having an excellent level of fastness. Good results were likewise obtained with aqueous coating systems. EXAMPLE 9 ##STR6## To a suspension of 1.24 g of the pigment from Example 1 (potassium salt) in 100 ml of hot water was added a solution of 1.2 g of calcium nitrate tetrahydrate in a little water. The mixture was rendered alkaline with KOH (30% strength solution in water) at about 80° C. and the resultant calcium salt was filtered off with suction, washed with water and methanol, and dried to yield 1.1 g of product. The calcium content was 10.9% (corresponding to a value for m of 0.76) and the potassium content was only 0.06%. When used for coloring in analogy to Examples 2 to 8, red colorations with high fastness properties were obtained in plastics and coating materials.
The present invention relates to a process for coloring polymeric materials by dyeing or pigmenting said polymeric materials with a pigment salt having the formula (I): ##STR1## and tautomeric forms thereof, wherein M n+ is an n-valent cation.
2
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This Application claims the benefit of, and is related to, the following Applicant's provisional patent application: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/251,159 titled “Trash Bag Apparatus” filed Nov. 5, 2015, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates, in general, to a bag apparatus for the storage and dispensing of bags where the apparatus is structurally and functionally configured to be used in conjunction with bag receptacles that use bars/rods to mount and dispense bags. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Certain trash receptacles use specific structures such as bars/rods in order to dispense garbage bags. Current bag apparatus or containers for bags do not have the requisite structure and/or features needed to effectively dispense trash bags in conjunction with the trash receptacles that use bars/rods. Current bag containers also are not adequately structured to position bags in a ready to use position as they require a user to first remove the bag, open it and then place the bag in a secure ready to use position. As such, there exists a need for a trash bag apparatus or storage apparatus that can perform the functions required by trash receptacles with mounting bars/rods and trash receptacles that require trash bags with parallel holes punched or made in them. There also exists a need for a trash bag apparatus that ensures that the trash bags are in a ready position for immediate deployment once the apparatus is mounted onto trash bag receptacles that have mounting bars/rods. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0004] An aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates a trash bag apparatus that may include a main body, the main body having two parallel holes compatible for use with a trash receptacle that uses bars/rods/wire, or mounting structures to hang bags on (all meaning the same thing being interchangable) to dispense trash bags. The trash bag apparatus or container may also include detachable, and/or perforated opening(s)/cutout(s) that enable a user to detach the cutout(s) or openings and gain access to the trash bags. The trash bag apparatus may also include a flip at the top of the container (which enables user access to the trash bags from the top), front and rear panels. The present invention is also able to be used with all types of receptacles and for other purposes with plastic bags such as packaging things or produce, to name a few. The apparatus described herein can be any sort of container that would hold the contents, including without limitations a box or other packaging device. [0005] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a first detachable and/or perforated cutout/opening may be located on the trash bag apparatus's or container's front panel. In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, this cutout/opening may also have detachable and/or perforated sections around the parallel holes for the trash receptacle's bag mounting bars/rods to have access to enter in and pass through the apparatus. [0006] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the trash bag apparatus may include a second detachable and/or perforated section located in the front panel that is larger than the first detachable section. [0007] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the second detachable and/or perforated section may have two sides which may also be perforated and/or detachable in order to allow for a wider area to enable a user to easily detach a trash bag. [0008] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a large detachable and/or perforated section. The large detachable and/or perforated cutout/opening or section may be located on the trash bag apparatus's or container's front panel. In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, this large cutout/opening may also have perforated sections around the parallel holes for the trash receptacle's bag mounting bars/rods. [0009] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the first detachable and/or perforated section may have two sides which may also be perforated and/or detachable in order to allow for a wider area to be open to enable a user to easily deploy a trash bag. [0010] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the trash bag apparatus may include a large perforated section which may cover a large area of the front panel. [0011] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the trash bag apparatus may include attachment mechanism(s) meant to attach or secure the apparatus to the trash bag receptacle. [0012] Another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates an apparatus that is structurally and/or functionally configured to enable a user to safely transport the apparatus, load the apparatus on the mounting bars/rods, and use the apparatus having a large stack of bags without concern of the bags falling or becoming unusable if they become misaligned with the trash receptacle mounting bars/rods. [0013] An aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates a set of two strategically located parallel holes in the front and back of the apparatus that align front to back. Certain aspects of embodiments of the present invention contemplate a variety of shapes for these holes, including, without limitation, round holes, square holes etc. The holes are configured to be compatible with the trash receptacle bars/rods and the bag's hanging holes that are packaged inside of the apparatus. [0014] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include an area that is open on the front and the back like a large rectangle or any shape that would allow the two parallel holes of the bag to be exposed from one large cutout/opening area of the bag apparatus. The area may be detachable and/or perforated or left open by the manufacturer. The open area on the front panel would allow the loading of the apparatus onto the bars/rods/wires of the receptacle and also allow the bags to be dispensed through the same opening. Aspects of embodiments of the present invention contemplate either a large open section all in one or two parallel openings with an additional opening for the bags to exit the apparatus and ride along the bars/rods, in which case, either way the holes are accessible for loading onto the bars/rods. [0015] In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, access for the receptacle bars/rods may be made by a hole or holes on the front and the back of the apparatus which may be perforated areas or structurally weakened areas that can be easily removed or enable the bars/rods to easily puncture or enter through the holes when a user is ready to hang the apparatus. In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, these bar/rod access area(s) of the apparatus may be removed by the apparatus manufacturer and sold open. [0016] In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may be structurally and/or functionally configured to allow plastic bags to be loaded into the apparatus and adjusted so the bags' parallel punched holes end up exactly aligned with the hole(s) in the front and back of the apparatus. [0017] A further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates a trash bag apparatus which may include front and rear panels, two parallel holes compatible for use with a trash receptacle that uses bars/rods to dispense trash bags, where the holes may extend through, and align with, both front and rear panels and mounting holes of the bags thereby enabling mounting of the apparatus and the bags within onto bars/rods of a bag receptacle. The bag apparatus may also include a detachable, slim section of the front panel, where the slim section enables a user to detach the slim section to deploy a bag from the apparatus, and a detachable top section at the top of the apparatus, where the top section, upon removal, enables user access to the hanging holes of the bags. [0018] In a further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the bag apparatus may also include a detachable medium section that is larger than the slim detachable section of the front panel, where the medium section enables faster bag deployment from the apparatus than the slim section did. [0019] In a further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the bag apparatus may also include a detachable large section that is bigger than the medium section of the front panel, where the large section enables even faster bag deployment from the apparatus than the medium section would allow. [0020] In a further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the detachable top section may include both detachable and non-detachable sections, where the non-detachable section enables the apparatus to remain mounted on the bars/rods (of the receptacle) after the detachable section of the top section has been detached. In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the non-detachable section may be located at the rear of the top section. [0021] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the single large section or parallel holes/openings may be located on the bag apparatus in the front and back and in an area towards the top of the bag apparatus. This configuration or positioning will allow access by hanging bars/rods of a receptacle which may then be able to enter the rear hole(s) of the bag apparatus then at the same time enter into the bag's hanging holes that are inside the bag apparatus and then pass through the front opening of the bag apparatus so the bars/rods pass through and remain inside the bags and the bag apparatus all at once. [0022] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the bag apparatus may be structurally and/or functionally configured to allow bags to be in a position that works with a two parallel bar/rod/wire receptacle system. The bag apparatus may also be structurally and/or functionally configured to enable bags to be upright, with the open bag mouth on top, the closed area at the bottom and be stacked in an order where the back of the first bag signals or effects the front of the second bag to open when the first is removed from the bag apparatus although any type of bag may be used with this bag apparatus. [0023] In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the bag apparatus may be firm enough to keep the bags tight and orderly. Use of strong cardboard material, for instance, may suffice. Plastic material may also be used. However, these examples are not limiting as other strong materials may be used in order to meet the demands of the apparatus as disclosed in this application. Aspects of embodiments of the present invention also contemplate the bag apparatus being made of different material. [0024] In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the bag apparatus may be structurally and/or functionally configured to exert enough force on the stack of trash bags so that only one bag is removed at a time. This saves money for the user as there will be fewer wasted bags and less frustration for the user. [0025] Another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates a trash bag apparatus that is free hanging so the bottom of the apparatus is not touching the base of the trash receptacle or the floor so that the trash bag apparatus remains clean to protect the trash bags inside the trash bag apparatus from being soiled if a used bag leaks. [0026] Another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates a trash bag apparatus with the ability to be enclosed during shipment, storing, sales, etc. so the trash bags within it remain protected, clean and orderly. [0027] Another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates a trash bag apparatus with one or more openings in the front and one or more openings on the back towards the top area of the apparatus that allows the user to see the parallel holes of the bags through those openings on the apparatus in order to place the rods/bars through one side of the apparatus into the holes of the bags and out the other side of the apparatus in order to load the entire apparatus with bags inside of it onto the rods/bars. The opening(s) in the top area of the front and back panels of the apparatus can be left open by the manufacturer on purpose or made to be purposely removed by the manufacturer or the user at some point. [0028] The trash bag apparatus may have a number of precut, outlined, adhesively stuck on, or weakened areas that may removable by perforation, tearing, peeling or cutting or any other means in the front panel of the apparatus from which the bags will be dispensed from. [0029] The trash bag apparatus may have one or more openings in the front of the apparatus where the bags can exit while still hanging on the bars/rods from inside the apparatus and move along the bars/rods into the ready to use position so they can collect trash while still hanging. The one or more openings that are in the front panel of the apparatus for the bags to exit the apparatus through can be left open completely or partially on purpose by the manufacturer or designed to be removed by the manufacturer or user. If the front panel opening is designed to stay open any type of material can be used to keep the bags inside until ready to use such as a sticker that peels off etc. [0030] An aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates the trash bag apparatus being enabled structurally to allow rear parallel holes or one larger open section to access the bags hanging holes. The parallel holes may remain so that the trash bag apparatus may be hung and support the interior bags. However, the front holes of the trash bag apparatus will end up being removed with sections of the front panel so the bag will not be prevented from exiting the apparatus and can freely move along the rods while exiting the trash bag apparatus when needed. [0031] Aspects of embodiments of the present invention contemplate the trash bag apparatus can have a few options of different shapes and sizes of front panel cut out/open areas so the user can decide how easy and speedily they would like to adjust the bag removal quality. [0032] Aspects of embodiments of the present invention contemplate the trash bag apparatus having already one or more open or precut or optionally removable sections on the back panel of the apparatus similar to those on the front panel in case the apparatus is loaded backwards and so the user does not have to remove and reload it in the correct direction. [0033] In a further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention the trash bag apparatus may include a detachable top section which covers the holes in the bags and when detached will allow the top section of the bags where the hanging holes are to completely be exposed and easily loaded onto the receptacle mounting bars/rods/wires. [0034] In a further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention the trash bag apparatus may include a top section that keeps the middle and bottom sections so that the bags are still kept orderly. [0035] The trash bag apparatus may have areas of the front panel material remaining in place after an open access area in the front panel has been made to dispense bags out of. The trash bag apparatus may also be structurally and/or functionally configured to allow pressure from the remaining front panel sections/areas to be applied to the interior bag stack so that the bags do not inconveniently come out of the apparatus through the open access area in the front panel that was made for dispensing bags. [0036] Aspects of embodiment of the present invention contemplate attachment or securing mechanism(s) that enable the trash bag apparatus to be secured into place at the rear area of the bars/rods so it cannot easily move. Exemplary, but not limiting, examples of such attachment mechanism(s), include adhesives on the back of the trash bag apparatus or the receptacle, hook and loop, interlocking, hanging, hooks, clipping mechanisms (that clip the apparatus into position or engage into position with the receptacle itself or a part of the receptacle). The trash bag apparatus can connect on to the rod/bar system, the rear receptacle area, the rear cross bar, etc. depending on which two bar/rod/wire style of receptacle the user is using. [0037] A further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates the trash bag apparatus being structurally and functionally configured to allow the last bag of the stack to be releasably secured to the inside of the back panel of the apparatus so that when the user is approaching the last few bags they do not fall out of the apparatus as a result of the bag not being secured or held back by pressure. [0038] A further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates the trash bag apparatus maintaining the interior bag stacks hanging hole alignment by any number of methods, systems, etc. [0039] A further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates the trash bag apparatus having a corking arrangement for the bag holes before being loaded for use while they are still in the apparatus. [0040] A further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention contemplates the trash bag apparatus having a tying arrangement through the holes until use of the bags. The trash bag holes may stay in place simply from intense direct pressure from the trash bag apparatus itself. Any type of material or construction of the apparatus can be used to keep the bag hanging holes aligned and ready for mounting. [0041] The bag apparatus allows for the smooth transition for a bag to go from folded, hanging, supported and protected while inside the apparatus to then be deployed from the apparatus for use while still hanging in a fully supported position by the bars/rods of the receptacle. [0042] Additional aspects, objectives, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0043] FIG. 1 illustrates a view showing a bag apparatus and parallel holes which enable mounting of the bag apparatus onto a trash receptacle according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0044] FIG. 2 illustrates a view showing a bag apparatus and a detachable and/or perforated section on a front panel of the bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0045] FIG. 3 illustrates a view showing a bag apparatus having been mounted onto the bars/rods of a receptacle according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0046] FIG. 4 illustrates a view showing trash bags with their holes in conjunction with a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0047] FIG. 5 illustrates a view showing a detailed view of an outer circle that represents the hole in a bag apparatus that aligns with an inner circle which represents the hanging holes of the bags that are inside of the apparatus so the hanging rods/bars of a receptacle can enter through both the apparatus hole and bags holes simultaneously according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0048] FIG. 6 illustrates a view showing a user beginning to remove a detachable and/or perforated section of a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0049] FIG. 7 illustrates a view showing a user continuing to remove a detachable and/or perforated section of a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0050] FIG. 8 illustrates a view showing a user further removing a detachable and/or perforated section of a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0051] FIG. 9 illustrates a view showing a user dispensing a trash bag from a trash bag apparatus, the user having removed a detachable and/or perforated section of the trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0052] FIG. 10 illustrates a view showing a user beginning to remove additional sections of a detachable and/or perforated section of a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0053] FIG. 11 illustrates a view showing a user continuing to remove additional sections of a detachable and/or perforated section of a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0054] FIG. 12 illustrates a view showing a user further removing additional sections of a detachable and/or perforated section of a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0055] FIG. 13 illustrates a view showing a trash bag apparatus with an open section and mounted on a trash bag receptacle according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0056] FIG. 14 illustrates a view showing a trash bag apparatus mounted on a trash bag receptacle with a dispensed trash bag according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0057] FIG. 15 illustrates a view showing a trash bag apparatus mounted on a trash bag receptacle showing a removable/detachable top section of the trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0058] FIG. 16 illustrates a view showing a trash bag apparatus mounted on a trash bag receptacle showing its removable/detachable top section being removed/detached according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0059] FIG. 17 illustrates a view showing a trash bag apparatus mounted on a trash bag receptacle showing its removable/detachable top section having been fully removed/detached according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0060] FIGS. 18 & 19 illustrate views showing a trash bag mounted on a trash bag receptacle and being distanced or removed from inside a trash bag apparatus according to aspects of embodiments of the present invention. [0061] FIG. 20 illustrates a view showing a trash bag mounted on a trash bag receptacle without a trash bag apparatus according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0062] FIG. 21 illustrates a view showing a trash bag apparatus with attachment mechanism(s) according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0063] FIG. 22 illustrates a view showing a trash bag apparatus mounted on a trash bag receptacle showing its removable/detachable front section having been fully removed/detached according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0064] FIG. 23 illustrates a view showing a user about to dispense a trash bag from a trash bag apparatus mounted on a trash bag receptacle according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0065] FIG. 24 illustrates a view showing a user dispensing a trash bag from a trash bag apparatus mounted on a trash bag receptacle according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0066] FIG. 25 illustrates a view showing a user removing a full trash bag from a trash bag receptacle according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. [0067] FIGS. 26-28 illustrate views showing removed trash bags next to a trash bag receptacle and a mounted trash bag apparatus according to aspects of embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0068] Referring now to FIGS. 1-5 , views showing trash bag apparatus 1 , its parallel holes 2 A & 2 B, front panel 3 of trash bag apparatus 1 , trash bag apparatus 1 's mounting onto trash receptacle bars/rods 5 , and a detailed view of holes 2 A, 2 B of a trash bag apparatus are shown according to aspect(s) of embodiment(s) of the present invention. [0069] Trash bag apparatus 1 is shown having parallel holes 2 A and 2 B on front panel 3 and holes 2 C and 2 D on rear panel 4 (not shown) which are configured to be mounted onto a trash receptacle having bars/rods 5 . Holes 2 A-D of apparatus 1 are aligned from front to rear and extend from front panel 3 to back panel 4 of apparatus 1 and provide access while mounting on the trash receptacle rods/bars through the rear panel 4 into the interior product space of trash bag apparatus 1 and also through front panel 3 . In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, front panel 3 may include one or more removable and/or perforated sections or cutouts 3 A through 3 C. In one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, sections 3 B and 3 C may be semi-circular in shape and may be positioned on either side of outer detachable cutout 3 A. In application, holes 2 A- 2 B enable installation of bag apparatus 1 containing bag(s) 6 onto receptacle bars/rods 5 . This may be made possible by holes 6 A and 6 B on bag(s) 6 which align with holes 2 A-D of apparatus 1 which enable bars/rods 5 to enter through holes 2 A-D, and holes 6 A & 6 B. [0070] Parallel holes 2 A-D of bag apparatus 1 may be multi-purpose in function to perform, inter alia, the following functions: 1. Enabling the loading of bag apparatus 1 onto rod(s) or bar(s) 5 of receptacle 11 thereby hanging bag apparatus 1 for use; 2. Keeping the holes in bag(s) 6 in positioned alignment; and 3. Allowing bag(s) 6 to deploy from inside bag apparatus 1 directly into the ready to use position while keeping alignment with receptacle bar(s)/rod(s) 5 . [0074] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, front panel 3 may include first and second removable or detachable sections where the second section may be larger than the first section and where both sections enable a user to remove or detach either section to gain access to the trash bags. [0075] In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, front panel 3 may include opening(s) compatible for use with a receptacle that uses bars or rods 5 to dispense bags 6 , where the openings extend through and align with both front ( 3 ) and rear ( 4 ) panels with mounting holes 2 A-D and mounting holes 6 A and 6 B of bags 6 thereby enabling mounting of apparatus 1 and bags 6 onto bars or rods 5 . [0076] Front panel 3 may also have opening(s) where the opening(s) enables a user to deploy trash bag 6 from apparatus 1 . In one aspect, the opening(s) in front panel 3 for bag deployment may be manufactured to remain open. In another aspect, the opening(s) in front panel 3 may be temporarily closed and ready to open by being removed or detached when ready to use. In yet another aspect, the opening(s) in front panel 3 for bag deployment may be temporarily covered or closed by any material until ready to use. [0077] Referring now to FIGS. 6-9 views showing a user progressively removing or detaching inner removable and/or perforated section 7 of apparatus 1 are shown according to aspect(s) of embodiment(s) of the present invention. Inner removable and/or perforated cutout or section 7 may be exposed with the removal of outer removable or detachable cutout 3 A. In one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, section 7 may have three sections 7 A-C with section 7 A being located in the middle and sections 7 B & 7 C being located to the respective sides of section 7 A. In one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, section 7 A may include a slim or first section which enables a tighter hold for slower bag deployment as shown in FIG. 9 with the slow deployment of bag 6 through the slim section of cutout 7 A. [0078] Referring now to FIGS. 10-12 views showing a user removing or detaching additional or second sections 7 B & 7 C of inner removable and/or perforated section 7 of trash bag apparatus 1 are shown according to aspect(s) of embodiment(s) of the present invention. Removal of sections 7 B & 7 C enable faster and easier deployment of bag 6 from apparatus 1 . [0079] In a further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, trash bag apparatus 1 may include a removable or detachable medium section located on the front panel 3 , where the medium section enables faster trash bag 6 deployment from apparatus 1 . In a yet further aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, trash bag apparatus 1 may also include a removable or detachable large or third section located on the front panel that is larger than the medium section, where the large section may enable even faster trash bag 6 deployment from apparatus 1 . [0080] Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14 views showing a mounted trash bag apparatus 1 having an open section 9 and a deployment view of bag 6 from apparatus 1 through open section 9 are shown according to aspect(s) of embodiment(s) of the present invention. In one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus 1 may have one large removable and/or perforated front panel 3 , which, upon removal provides open section 9 for faster and full deployment of bag 6 from apparatus 1 as shown in FIG. 14 . [0081] Referring now to FIGS. 15-17 views showing removable or detachable top section 8 of trash bag apparatus 1 are shown according to aspect(s) of embodiment(s) of the present invention. Apparatus 1 may have top removable, detachable and/or perforated section 8 which enables access to holes 2 A-D directly. Access to bag(s) 6 may also be enabled by removal of detachable top section 8 . In one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, section 8 may be connected with a removable or detachable front panel 3 which may enable access to deploy bag(s) 6 . In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus 1 may have just have one opening in total in the front of apparatus 1 which allows access to both holes 6 A & 6 B of bag(s) 6 in order to hang and provide access to bag(s) 6 in which case, bag(s) 6 may be able to be deployed faster and easier from apparatus 1 with the user having removed an entire large section of the apparatus all at one time which will allow someone access to the holes and to deploy the bags all at once by simply removing one section only. This large piece can be removed by the manufacturer or the user when ready to use. [0082] In one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, removable or detachable top section 8 may include of detachable and non-detachable sections, where the non-detachable section enables the apparatus to remain mounted on the bars/rods after the detachable section of top section 8 has been detached. [0083] Referring now to FIGS. 18-20 , views showing removal of detachable top section 8 & the remaining section of apparatus 1 are shown according to aspect(s) of embodiment(s) of the present invention. With the removal of detachable top section 8 , a user can still keep the remaining section of apparatus 1 to retain control of bag flow from apparatus 1 . In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the remaining section of apparatus 1 may be removed for full bag exposure as shown in FIGS. 18-20 thereby resulting in full exposure of bag(s) 6 as shown in FIG. 20 . [0084] Referring now to FIG. 21 , a view showing trash bag apparatus 1 with attachment mechanism(s) 10 is shown according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. Attachment mechanism(s) 10 of apparatus 1 may be configured to connect and secure to trash receptacle 11 to ensure apparatus 1 remains in position. Attachment mechanism(s) 10 may be, without limitation, any one of: hook and loop, hook, adhesive, lock, clips. Attachment mechanism(s) 10 , in another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, may cooperatively lock with corresponding mechanism(s) 12 on trash receptacle 11 in order to secure apparatus 1 in position. [0085] Referring now to FIG. 22 , a view showing trash bag apparatus 1 mounted on trash bag receptacle 11 showing removable or detachable front section 3 A having been fully detached is shown according to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention. In one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus 1 , by its installation on bars/rods 5 of a trash receptacle, may not touch the base of trash receptacle 11 as it would hang above the base of trash receptacle 11 thereby avoiding contact with potential spills etc. that may occur. [0086] Referring now to FIGS. 23-28 , views showing progressional deployment of bag 6 from apparatus 1 are shown according to aspect(s) of embodiment(s) of the present invention. Apparatus 1 , having been mounted onto bars/rods 5 of trash receptacle 11 , enable deployment of bag 6 through removed/detached section 3 a of apparatus 1 . This configuration enables deployment of bag 6 as shown and subsequent deployment of the next bag from apparatus 1 . Apparatus 1 , by way of its installation and use of its removable and/or perforated portions, enable release of only one bag 6 as a used bag is pulled away ( FIGS. 26-28 ). [0087] The invention has been described in detail with particular reference to certain preferred embodiments thereof, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention.
A bag apparatus for bags having a main body, front & rear panels, detachable sections that may be perforated and a flip section that provides a user access to the bags within the bag apparatus. The detachable sections, when detached, enable dispensing of bags from the apparatus. The bag apparatus also contemplates a number of mounting holes that align with the holes of bags and bars/rods or mounting structures of bag receptacles.
1
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS [0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/334,905 filed May 14, 2010. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention pertains to lighting fixtures structured to dissipate heat from hot-running light bulbs and ballasts mounted in the fixtures and to prevent debris from unintentionally escaping from the fixtures. BACKGROUND [0003] Lighting fixtures used in gymnasiums or other sporting arenas, factories and other high-bay lighting applications or environments often contain hot-running light bulbs. These light bulbs produce a substantial buildup of heat in the lighting fixtures that can damage componentry including ballasts, refractors, housings, etc. The heat build up can also cause premature failure of the light bulbs. Because these fixtures are typically mounted well out of easy reach, maintenance is extremely difficult, so long life of the fixture and light bulbs is extremely desirable. [0004] Oftentimes, such fixtures are provided with safety thermostats that cut off power to the light bulbs if certain safety limit temperatures are exceeded. While this may prevent damage to the fixtures and premature bulb failure, it is obviously undesirable since the lighted gymnasium, factory, etc. will go partially or completely dark in such circumstances. [0005] Embodiments of the present invention prevent heat buildup in such lighting fixtures without interfering with the normal and expected appearance or operation of the lighting fixtures. They thereby improve fixture reliability and bulb longevity and minimize the chances of safety shut-off due to fixture overheating. Embodiments of the present invention also prevent the unintentional escape of debris from the lighting fixtures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fully assembled lighting fixture in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0007] FIG. 2 is a cutaway elevation front view of the lighting fixture of FIG. 1 ; [0008] FIG. 3 is an assembly drawing illustrating the components of the lighting fixture of FIG. 1 ; [0009] FIG. 4 is a view of componentry located with the housing of the lighting fixture of FIG. 1 ; and [0010] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic representation of a lighted facility including a lighting fixture in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0011] Turning first to FIG. 1 , a lighting fixture 10 of an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in a perspective view. Fixture 10 is intended primarily for mounting in gymnasiums or other sporting arenas, factories and other high bay lighting applications or environments, or in any other indoor applications where preferably ceiling mounting heights exceed about 15 feet. [0012] Fixture 10 includes a housing 12 with a housing opening 11 and a refractor 14 fitted to the housing opening. In alternate embodiments, the refractor may not be used and an enlarged housing may extend beyond the light bulbs 15 . [0013] As shown in FIGS. 2-4 , housing 12 contains ballast components 18 for powering bulbs 15 and wiring (not shown) electrically connected to a series of lighting sockets 20 mounted on a circular lighting socket plate 22 . The lighting sockets preferably are arranged in a circular pattern on lighting socket plate 22 which is removably affixed to the underside of the bottom circular collar 24 of housing 12 and above the housing opening 11 . Although bulbs 15 , which are shown in place in the sockets in FIG. 2 , are compact fluorescent light bulbs, other types of bulbs could be used. The bulbs produce light below housing opening 11 . [0014] A second circular plate 32 of the same diameter as plate 22 is located above the axial fan and attached to plate 22 by a series of spacers (not shown) about its periphery. Plate 32 has a central aperture 33 aligned with aperture 26 and of approximately the same diameter as aperture 26 . The fan is therefore sandwiched between plates 22 and 32 to form a fan/socket assembly 34 . [0015] A thermostat 36 may be mounted above ballasts 18 by bracket 19 which is affixed to the top of plate 32 . Ballasts 18 are spaced apart as shown to facilitate airflow and hence cooling by the fan. The thermostat may be set to a predetermined temperature (e.g., 130° C.) to warn of imminent fixture failure due to overheating, for example by lighting a warning light or tripping an alarm (not shown). [0016] Refractor 14 has a proximal opening 41 and a distal opening 50 and is positioned with its proximal opening 41 at housing opening 11 . When refractor 14 is clear or translucent, some of the light produced by bulbs 15 is projected through the refractor. The proximal opening 41 at the top of refractor 40 is encircled by an annular edge 42 . A circular retaining plate 44 is designed to sit below edge 42 to removably affix the refractor to housing 12 with the fan/socket assembly positioned in collar 24 at the bottom of housing 12 . The distal annular opening 50 of the refractor is encircled by an annular collar 52 . This collar facilitates attachment of a protective lens assembly 16 . [0017] Protective lens assembly 16 is positioned at the distal opening 50 of the refractor. As noted above, the protective lens assembly may be mounted within an enlarged housing when a refractor is not used. Lens assembly 16 comprises a bottom circular flat lens 56 and a top circular flat lens 59 . While it is preferred that the bottom lens have a larger diameter than the top lens, both lenses may be of the same diameter or the bottom lens may have a smaller diameter than the top lens. [0018] Although bottom lens 56 is illustrated with an axially positioned circular opening 60 which is preferably larger than the diameter of openings 26 and 33 , other opening shapes may be used and the opening(s) need not be centrally located. Lenses 56 and 59 are spaced from each other by pins 62 which are arranged along the periphery of lens 59 and are attached at either end to the two clear or translucent lenses, forming a first ventilation gap 64 . While any appropriate spacing could be used, the spacing preferably will be no greater than about one inch. The combination of lenses blocks direct access to the interior of the housing so that, inter alia, (1) objects cannot move into the fixture from below and damage components within the fixture; and (2) components within the fixture cannot fall through the lens assembly and escape the fixture. [0019] The outer edge of top lens 58 is spaced from the border of the distal opening 50 of the refractor to form a second ventilation gap 55 allowing an air stream A to pass between the edge of the top lens 58 and the border of the distal opening 50 of the refractor (as shown in FIG. 2 ). In an alternative embodiment, the outer edge of the top lens 58 may be spaced from the border of the housing opening 11 to form a second ventilation gap allowing air stream A to pass between the edge of the top lens 58 and the border of the housing opening 11 . [0020] A protective wire grid 70 is located below bottom lens 56 to protect the lens and the interim of the fixture from damage for example in a gymnasium or athletic arena setting. The wire grid also protects people below the lighting fixture, like the lens assembly, from debris that might come loose in the fixture, for example, from a broken light bulb. [0021] Finally, an annular flexible locking band 72 with an opening 74 held together by a spring 76 and top and bottom annular lips 77 and 78 is provided to capture and hold the lens assembly and the protective grid at the bottom of the refractor along collar 52 . [0022] Once in place, the lens assembly facilitates air flow through the fixture to prevent it from overheating while also preventing any broken light bulbs or other debris from escaping the fixture and falling onto spectators or others disposed below the fixture. [0023] FIG. 5 shows a diagrammatic representation of a lighting facility 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. The facility uses at least one lighting fixture 102 as described above attached at a powered junction 104 via a cord 106 to at least one upper supporting section (ceiling) 108 . Any number of such lighting fixtures could be mounted within facility 100 . Lighting fixture 102 projects light generally downwardly towards the floor of the facility 110 . Facility 100 may be a gymnasium or arena designed for athletic play and optimally for spectators (not shown). The facility may have stands for holding spectators and/or courts, grounds, or otherwise designated areas for competitive sporting events. [0024] Lighting fixture 10 operates as follows: 1. First it is assembled and positioned where desired, typically by hanging from a ceiling by a cord 80 which includes the necessary electrical wiring (not shown) to supply current to the ballasts of the fixture. The assembled fixture will contain bulbs 15 ready to be lighted when current is supplied by a ballast or other current source. 2. Once the fixture is lighted, illumination is provided both from the sides through acrylic refractor 14 and through lens assembly 16 . 3. At the same time, power is provided to fan 30 causing fan blades 32 to begin rotating. The fan blades are oriented to produce an upward flow of an airstream A which is drawn through opening 60 in bottom lens 56 and the spacing 64 between the top and bottom lenses (the first ventilation gap), the spacing between the edge of the top lens and the exterior of the fixture (the second ventilation gap) and then through apertures 26 and 33 in plates 22 and 32 before passing through orifices 17 at the top of the housing. Thus, as airstream A moves past light bulbs 15 , it cools them in the process and prevents overheating of the overall lighting fixture. [0028] Thus, the invention makes it possible to move air through the fixture to cool it without impairing its ability to prevent debris from escaping through the bottom of the lighting fixture while also safeguarding the interior of the fixture. [0029] All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein. [0030] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention. [0031] Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. It should be understood that the illustrated embodiments are exemplary only, and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention.
A lighting fixture with a housing having an opening and containing a fan and at least one heat-generating light bulb to produce light at the opening and a protective lens assembly below the housing opening. The protective lens assembly includes a top clear or translucent lens and a bottom clear or translucent lens having an opening and spaced from the top lens to provide a first ventilation gap between the lenses while protecting the interior of the housing. The fan may be operated to cool the light bulb by moving air through the ventilation gap and across the bulb.
5
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/279,435 filed Mar. 29, 2001. The entirety of that provisional application is incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to methods and compositions for using the MHC class II invariant chain polypeptide, Ii (also known as CD74), as a receptor for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), including methods and compositions for using this receptor, as well as agonists and antagonists of MIF which bind to this receptor or which otherwise modulate the interaction of MIF with CD74 or the consequences of such interaction, in methods for treatment of conditions characterized by locally or systemically altered MIF levels, particularly inflammatory conditions and cancer. [0004] 2. Background of the Technology [0005] Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), the first cytokine activity to be described, has emerged to be seen as a critical regulator of the innate and adaptive immune response 1-3 . MIF is encoded by a unique gene, and crystallization studies have shown MIF to define a new protein fold and structural superfamily 4 . Despite the fact that the biological activity attributed to MIF first was described almost 30 years ago, information regarding MIF's precise role in cell physiology and immunity has emerged only recently 1-9, 18 . MIF is centrally involved in macrophage and T cell activation and in the development of septic shock, arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions 2 . Also, MIF has been linked to cancer 32 . [0006] MIF is critically involved in the expression of innate and acquired immunity. MIF is released by a variety of cell types and is a necessary factor for the activation or proliferative responses of macrophages 18 , T cells 6 , and fibroblasts 7 . MIF's mitogenic effects proceed via an autocrine/paracrine activation pathway involving the p44/p42 (ERK-1/2) mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade 7 . MIF −/− mice are highly resistant to endotoxic shock 3 , and immunoneutralization of MIF confers protection against septic shock 25 and a variety of immuno-inflammatory pathologies such as delayed-type hypersensitivity 26 , arthritis 27 , and glomerulonephritis 28 . MIF's actions on cells also show a number of unique features. These include a global, counter-regulatory action on glucocorticoid-induced immunosuppression 5, 6 , the induction of a sustained pattern of ERK-1/2 activation 7 , and functional antagonism of p53-dependent apoptosis 6 . [0007] MIF's pro-inflammatory properties have been linked to its capacity to counter-regulate the immunosuppressive effects of glucocorticoids 5, 6 , and its interactions with cells have been presumed to require a receptor-based mechanism of action 7, 8 or to reflect a specialized, intracellular mode of action 9 . Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have been consistent with MIF acting by engagement of a cell surface receptor, however lack of progress toward the identification of candidate receptors has prompted interest in either specialized, intracellular modes of action 9 or the potential biological role of MIF's tautomerase activity 2, 21 . There also is evidence that MIF may function as an isomerase 4 . [0008] The MHC class II-associated invariant chain, Ii (CD74) 10 , has been established to play an important role in the processing and transport of MHC class II proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi 10 . Most Ii dissociates from the class II complex as antigenic peptides load onto their class II binding sites. Approximately 2-5% of total cellular Ii also is expressed on the cell surface, where it has been shown to function as an accessory molecule for T cell activation 11 . Ii has been previously implicated in signaling and accessory functions for immune cell activation 11-13 . [0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,559,028 to Humphreys, et al. discloses gene constructs for expression of wild type and mutant Ii chains in recombinant cells. U.S. Pat. No. 5,726,020 to Humphreys, et al. discloses and claims expressible reverse gene constructs and oligonucleotides that hybridize with an Ii mRNA molecule, thereby inhibiting translation of the Ii mRNA molecule. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0010] The invention is based in part upon the identification, utilizing expression cloning and functional analyses, that the Class II-associated invariant chain polypeptide, Ii (or CD74) 10 , is a cellular receptor for MIF. Thus, MIF binds to the extracellular domain of Ii, a Type II membrane protein, and Ii is required for MIF-induced cell activation and/or phenotypic changes including, for instance, signaling via the extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK)-1/2MAP kinase cascade and cell proliferation. The inventive relationship provides a mechanism for MIF's activity as a cytokine and identify it as a natural ligand for Ii, which has been previously implicated in signaling and accessory functions for immune cell activation. [0011] Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention relates to methods for screening compounds to identify positive or negative modulators of MIF binding to, or activity in connection with binding to, CD74. In a first instance, such a method comprises a biochemical (i.e., acellular) binding assay, comprising: contacting an MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide with MIF in the presence and absence of a test compound, and comparing the binding interaction of the MIF and Ii polypeptides in the presence of the test compound with their interaction in the absence of the test compound, whereby a compound that positively modulates the interaction of MIF with the Ii polypeptide is identified as an enhancer of MIF binding activity and a compound that negatively modulates the interaction of MIF with the Ii polypeptide is identified as an inhibitor of MIF binding activity. Enhancers so identified are candidate therapeutic agonists or enhancers of MIF, whereas inhibitors so identified are candidate therapeutic antagonists of MIF. For instance, a test compound may reinforce the binding of MIF to the Ii polypeptide (i.e., increase the affinity of the interaction) and thereby enhance the interaction of MIF and the Ii polypeptide. Such an enhancer is thereby identified as an agonist or enhancer of MIF, and is identified as a candidate therapeutic agent to enhance, independently or in connection with endogenous or exogenous MIF, MIF effects in subjects requiring such augmentation. Alternatively, a test compound that competes with MIF for binding to the Ii polypeptide or otherwise inhibits the interaction of the MIF with the Ii polypeptide is identified as an antagonist of MIF, and is identified as a candidate therapeutic agent to antagonize MIF effects in subjects requiring such antagonism. In this biochemical binding assay, the Ia polypeptide comprises the complete Ia sequence or an MIF-binding fragment thereof, and the assay is conveniently conducted with recombinantly prepared MIF and Ii peptides, one of which is optionally immobilized to a solid support, and one of which (or a binding partner thereto, such as an antibody) is labeled to facilitate detection and measurement of the MIF:Ii binding interaction. [0012] In a second aspect, the binding assay may be a cellular binding assay, comprising CD74 expressed (either normally or as a consequence of genetic engineering for Ii expression) by a cell (prokaryotic or eukaryotic), typically on the cell surface, and MIF binding thereto is detected and measured in the presence or absence of a test compound. As in the above described biochemical or acellular assay, a comparison is made of the binding interaction of the MIF and the cell-displayed Ii polypeptide in the presence of the test compound with their interaction in the absence of the test compound, whereby a compound that positively modulates the interaction of MIF with the Ii polypeptide (i.e., increases their affinity) is identified as an enhancer of MIF binding activity and a compound that negatively modulates the interaction of MIF with the Ii polypeptide (i.e., decreases their affinity) is identified as an inhibitor of MIF binding activity. Enhancers so identified are candidate therapeutic agonists or enhancers of MIF, whereas inhibitors so identified are candidate therapeutic antagonists of MIF. [0013] In a third aspect, the cellular assay is a signaling assay, in which the activity of an intracellular signaling cascade is measured before and after MIF is contacted to cell-displayed CD74 polypeptide, either in the presence or the absence of a test compound. Preferably, the signaling assay is an ERK-1/2 activation assay. A test compound that positively modulates the signaling activity of MIF via interaction with the Ii polypeptide is identified as an enhancer of MIF signaling activity and a compound that negatively modulates the signaling of MIF via interaction of MIF with the Ii polypeptide is identified as an inhibitor of MIF signaling activity. Enhancers so identified are candidate therapeutic agonists or enhancers of MIF, whereas inhibitors so identified are candidate therapeutic antagonists of MIF. [0014] In a fourth aspect, the cellular assay is a cellular activity or cell phenotype assay, in which the activity or phenotype of a target cell is measured before and after MIF is contacted to cell-displayed CD74 polypeptide, either in the presence or the absence of a test compound. Preferably, the activity or phenotype assay is a proliferation assay or an assay for functional antagonism of p53-dependent apoptosis. A test compound that positively modulates the chosen cellular activity or phenotypic change mediated by MIF via interaction with the Ii polypeptide is identified as an enhancer of MIF cellular activity and a compound that negatively modulates the chosen cellular activity or phenotypic change mediated by MIF via interaction with the Ii polypeptide is identified as an inhibitor of MIF cellular activity. Enhancers so identified are candidate therapeutic agonists or enhancers of MIF, whereas inhibitors so identified are candidate therapeutic antagonists of MIF. [0015] The invention also provides an enhancer of MIF, including an agonist, or an inhibitor, including an antagonist of MIF, identified by any of the methods above. One form of such an agonist or antagonist would be an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof, such as an anti-CD74 antibody. Anti-CD74 antibodies and CD74-binding fragments thereof are known in the art. For instance, the anti-CD74 antibody may be a monoclonal antibody and also may be a human, humanized or chimeric antibody, made by any conventional method. [0016] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of inhibiting an effect of MIF on a cell comprising on its surface an MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide which binds MIF and thereby mediates the effect of MIF. This method comprises: contacting the cell with an antagonist or other inhibitor of MIF, where the antagonist or inhibitor inhibits, in a first instance, binding of MIF to the Ii polypeptide; in a second instance, signaling initiated by MIF:Ii interaction; and in a third instance, a change in cellular activity, metabolism or phenotype effected by MIF:Ii interaction. In any of these methods the antagonist or inhibitor may be an antibody or fragment thereof which binds to the Ii polypeptide. Alternatively, the inhibitor may be soluble Ii polypeptide or a soluble MIF-binding fragment thereof which inhibits the interaction of MIF and Ia polypeptide (or the cellular consequences of such interaction) by binding to MIF or by interacting with Ii polypeptide on the surface of a cell. In some cases, the cell comprising Ii polypeptide is present in a mammal and the antagonist or other inhibitor is administered to the mammal in a pharmaceutical composition. A mammal that would benefit from this method is a mammal suffering from a condition or disorder characterized by MIF levels locally or systemically elevated above the normal range found in mammals not suffering from such a condition. In such a case, the antagonist or inhibitor is administered in an amount effective to treat the condition or disorder. For instance, the mammal may be suffering from cancer or an inflammatory disorder, and the antagonist or inhibitor is administered in an amount effective to treat the cancer or inflammatory disorder. The inflammatory disorder may be, for instance, septic shock or arthritis. [0017] More particularly, one aspect of the invention is a method of inhibiting an activity of MIF, which method comprises: contacting MIF with an MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide or a fragment thereof which binds to MIF. The fragment of the MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide which binds to MIF may be a soluble form of the polypeptide, particularly a soluble form that comprises the extracellular binding domain of this type II transmembrane polypeptide. In some cases, the MIF to be inhibited is in a mammal and the Ii polypeptide or a fragment thereof is administered to the mammal in a pharmaceutical composition. Where the mammal suffers from cancer or an inflammatory disorder, such as septic shock or arthritis, the Ii polypeptide or fragment thereof is administered in an amount effective to treat the disorder. In a further instance, the MIF antagonist or inhibitor is administered in an amount effective to treat an infectious disease, in which disease MIF or a polypeptide evolutionarily related to MIF (as evidenced by sequence homology) deriving from the infecting pathogen (whether a virus, bacterial, fungus, or especially, a parasite) is present locally, systemically, or at the host:pathogen interface. [0018] Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method of purifying MIF comprising: contacting a sample comprising MIF with an MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide or a fragment thereof which binds to MIF, under conditions that promote the specific binding of MIF to the Ii polypeptide or fragment thereof, and separating the MIF:Ii polypeptide complex thereby formed from materials which do not bind to the Ii polypeptide or fragment thereof. In this method, the Ii polypeptide may be immobilized on a solid support matrix. The invention also provides a method of assaying for the presence of MIF comprising: contacting a sample with an MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide or a fragment thereof which binds to MIF under conditions that promote the specific binding of MIF to the Ii polypeptide or fragment thereof, and detecting any MIF:Ii polypeptide or MIF:Ii polypeptide fragment complex thereby formed. [0019] Still another method provided by the invention is a method for reducing an effect of MIF on a cell comprising on its surface an MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide or fragment thereof which binds MIF and thereby mediates the effect of MIF. This method comprises: providing to the cell an antisense nucleic acid molecule in an amount effective to reduce the amount of Ii polypeptide produced by the cell. The antisense nucleic acid molecule specifically binds to a portion of mRNA expressed from a gene encoding the MHC class II invariant chain (Ii) polypeptide and thereby decreases translation of the mRNA in the cell and, ultimately, the level of Ii polypeptide on the surface of the cell. In this method the cell comprising the Ii polypeptide may be in a mammal, for instance, a mammal suffering from a condition or disorder characterized by MIF levels locally or systemically elevated above the normal range in mammals not suffering from such a condition or disorder. For instance, the mammal may be suffering from a cancer or an inflammatory disorder, such as septic shock or arthritis. In such a case, the antisense nucleic acid is administered in a pharmaceutical composition, in an amount effective to treat the condition or disorder. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0020] FIG. 1 illustrates high affinity binding of MIF to THP-1 monocytes. a, Alexa-MIF shows full retention of dose-dependent MIF biological activity as assessed by activation of the p44/p42 (ERK-1/2) MAP kinase cascade, visualized by western blotting of cell lysates using antibodies specific for phospho-p44/p42 or total p44/p42; and b, suppression of p53-dependent apoptosis induced by serum starvatuin (CM: complete medium, SFM: serum-free medium). MIF or Alexa-MIF were added at 50 ng/ml. Data shown are Mean±SD of triplicate wells and are representative of 3 independent experiments. Further evidence for the retention of native structure by Alexa-conjugation was provided by the measurement of MIF tautomerase activity using L-dopachrome methyl ester as substrate 25 . No difference in the tautomerase activity of Alexa-MIF versus unconjugated MIF was observed (Alexa-MIF: ΔOD 475 =0.275 sec −1 μg −1 protein, versus rMIF: ΔOD 475 =0.290 sec −1 μg −1 ; P=NS) c, Flow cytometric analysis shows the binding of Alexa-MIF to THP-1 monocytes is markedly enhanced by IFN-δ treatment. Competition for Alexa-MIF binding was performed in the presence of 1 μg/ml unlabeled, rMIF d, Direct visualization of Alexa-MIF binding to THP-1 monocytes by confocal microscopy THP-1 cells were grown on cover slips, incubated with INFγ (1 ng/ml) for 72 hrs and stained with Alexa-MIF (left panel) or Alexa-MIF plus excess, unlabeled rMIF (right panel). Cell bound Alexa-MIF was rapidly internalized upon shifting cells from 4° to 37° for 15 mins (right panel). Magnification: 630× e, Binding characteristics of Alexa-MIF to IFNγ-activated, THP-1 monocytes. The inset shows the binding data transformed by Scatchard analysis, indicating two distinct binding activities; one with K d =3.7×10 −8 m the other with K d =3.5×10 5 , data are representative of 3 independent experiments. [0021] FIG. 2 show that Ii is a cell surface binding protein for MIF a, Sequential cycles of fluorescence-activated cell-sorting of COS-7 cell transfectants shows enrichment for MIF binding activity b, Diagrams indicating structure of Ii (35 kDa isoform), and three of ten representative cDNA clones with MIF binding activity. IC, TM, and EC are the intracellular, transmembrane, and extracellular domains. M 1 and M 7 refer to two sites of alternative translation initiation. c, Flow cytometry analysis of MIF binding to Ii-expressing cells. Enhanced binding of Alexa-MIF to Ii-transfected versus control vector-transfected COS-7 cells (left panel), inhibited binding of Alexa-MIF to Ii-transfected COS-7 cells incubated with anti-Ii mAb (clone LN2) versus an isotypic mAb control (con mAb) (middle panel), and enhanced binding of Alexa-MIF to IFNγ-stimulated, THP-1 monocytes incubated with anti-Ii mAb (clone LN2) versus an isotypic mAb control (right panel). The data shown are representative of at least three independent experiments. The anti-Ii mAb, LN2 (PharMingen), is reactive with an epitope residing within 60 amino acids of the extracytoplasmic, C-terminus of the protein d, MIF binds to the extracellular domain of Ii in vitro. [ 35 S]-Ii protein was prepared in a coupled transcription and translation reaction utilizing plasmids encoding Ii fragments of different lengths. Protein-protein interaction was assessed by measuring bound radioactivity in 96-well plates that were pre-coated with MIF (n=6 wells per experiment). The data shown are representative of three experiments, showing that MIF binding is severely compromised with vectors expressing Ii fragments of amino acids 1-72 or 1-109 versus robust binding with vectors expressing Ii fragments of amino acids 1-149 or 1-232 (full-length). [0022] FIG. 3 illustrates Ii mediation of MIF stimulation of ERK-1/2 (p44/p42) phosphorylation in COS-7 cells a, ERK-1/2 phosphorylation is induced by MIF in COS-7 cells transfected with Ii vector (COS-7/Ii) or control vector (COS-7/V). Cells were treated without or with various doses of rMIF for 2.5 hrs and analyzed for phospho-p44/p42 and total p44/p42 by western blotting b, There is dose-dependent inhibition of MIF-induced ERK-1/2 phosphorylation by anti-Ii mAb. COS-7 cells were transfected with an Ii vector and stimulated with 50 ng/ml MIF for 2.5 hrs in the presence of an isotypic control mAb or an anti-Ii mAb (clone LN2) at different doses. In control experiments, anti-Ii showed no effect on ERK-1/2 phosphorylation in the absence of added MIF (data not shown). [0023] FIG. 4 illustrates western blots of MIF-induced phosphorylation a, MIF dose dependently stimulates ERK-1/2 (p44/p42) phosphorylation in human Raji B cells, as visualized by western blotting for phospho-p44/p42 b, There is inhibition of MIF-induced ERK-1/2 phosphorylation in Raji cells by anti-Ii mAb also. Raji cells were stimulated with 50 ng/ml of MIF for 2.5 hrs in the presence of an isotype control antibody (Con Ab) or the two anti-Ii mAbs,—B741 or LN2, each added at 50 μg/ml. c, Anti-Ii inhibits MIF-induced Raji cell proliferation quantified by 3 H-thymidine incorporation d, Anti-Ii inhibits MIF-induced proliferation of human fibroblasts also. Antibodies were added to a final concentration of 50 μg/ml. The results shown are the Mean±SD of triplicate assays and are representative of at least three separate experiments. Anti-Ii antibodies showed no effect on cell proliferation in the absence of added MIF (data not shown). [0024] FIG. 5 shows the complete nucleotide sequence (SEQ ID NO: 1) and longest translated amino acid sequence (beginning at nt 8; SEQ ID NO:2) of the human mRNA for the Ii polypeptide (HLA-DR antigens associated invariant chain p33 [GenBank Accession Nr. X00497 M14765]), as reported in Strubin, M. et al., The complete sequence of the mRNA for the HL A -DR-associated invariant chain reveals a polypeptide with an unusual transmembrane polarity. EMBO J., 3, 869-872 (1984). DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0025] The following abbreviations are used herein: Alexa-MIF: Alexa 488-MIF conjugate, ERK: extracellular-signal-regulated kinase, Ii: MHC class II-associated invariant chain (CD74), INFγ: interferon-γ, mAb: monoclonal antibody, MIF: macrophage migration inhibitory factor. [0026] Utilizing expression cloning and functional analyses, we have identified as a cellular receptor for MIF the Class II-associated invariant chain, Ii (CD74) 10 . MIF binds to the extracellular domain of Ii, a Type II membrane protein, and Ii is required for MIF-induced cellular effects, including for instance, activation of the ERK-1/2 MAP kinase cascade and cell proliferation. These data provide a mechanism for MIF's activity as cytokine and identify it as a natural ligand for Ii, which has been previously implicated in signaling and accessory functions for immune cell activation 11-13 . We linked the fluorescent dye Alexa 488 14 to recombinant MIF by standard techniques, verified the retention of biological activity of the conjugate ( FIG. 1A , B), and conducted binding experiments with a panel of cell types known to respond to MIF. By way of illustration, using flow cytometry, we observed high-affinity binding of Alexa-MIF to the surface of the human monocytic cell line, THP-1. This binding activity was induced by activation of monocytes with interferon-γ (IFNγ), and was competed by the addition of excess, unlabeled MIF ( FIG. 1C ). Confocal microscopy and direct visualization of IFNγ-treated monocytes at 4° C. showed surface binding of Alexa-MIF, and cell-bound Alexa-MIF was internalized upon shifting temperature to 37° C. ( FIG. 1D ). Quantitative binding studies performed with increasing concentrations of Alexa-MIF revealed two apparent classes of cell surface receptors ( FIG. 1E ). The higher affinity binding activity showed a K d of 3.7×10 −8 M and 3.1×10 4 binding sites per cell, and the lower affinity binding showed a K d of 3.5×10 −7 M and 4.9×10 4 sites per cell. [0027] To identify the MIF receptor, we prepared cDNA from IFNγ-activated THP-1 monocytes and constructed a mammalian expression library in the lambdaZAP-CMV vector 15 . Library aliquots representing a total of 1.5×10 7 recombinants were transfected into COS-7 cells, which we had established previously to exhibit little detectable binding activity for MIF, and the transfectants were analyzed by flow cytometry for Alexa-MIF binding. Positively-staining cells were isolated by cell sorting, and the cDNA clones collected, amplified, and re-transfected into COS-7 cells for additional rounds of cell sorting ( FIG. 2A ). After four rounds of selection, single colonies were prepared in E. coli and 250 colonies were randomly picked for analysis. We sequenced 50 clones bearing cDNA inserts of ≧1.6 kB and observed that 10 encoded the Class II-associated invariant chain, Ii (CD74), a 31-41 kD Type II transmembrane protein 16 . While the isolated clones differed with respect to their total length, each was in the sense orientation and encoded a complete extracellular and transmembrane domain ( FIG. 2B ). [0028] To confirm that Ii is a cell surface binding protein for MIF, we analyzed the binding of Alexa-MIF to COS-7 cells transfected with an Ii expression plasmid ( FIG. 2C ). Binding was inhibited by excess, unlabeled MIF (data not shown), and by an anti-Ii mAb directed against the extracellular portion of the protein. Anti-Ii mAb also inhibited the binding of Alexa-MIF to IFN-γ stimulated THP-1 monocytes. The inhibition by anti-Ii mAb of Alexa-MIF binding to THP-1 monocytes was significant, but partial, consistent with the interpretation that Ii represents one of the two classes of cell surface receptors for MIF revealed by Scatchard analysis ( FIG. 1E ). [ 35 S]-Ii protein prepared by a coupled transcription and translation reticulocyte lysate system bound to MIF in vitro, and the principal binding epitope was localized to a 40 amino acid region contained within the Ii extracellular domain ( FIG. 2D ). [0029] To verify the functional significance of MIF binding to Ii in an exemplary system, we examined the activity of MIF to stimulate ERK-1/2 activation and cellular proliferation in different Ii-expressing cells. We observed an MIF-mediated increase, and a dose-dependent, anti-Ii mAb-mediated decrease, in ERK-1/2 phosphorylation in Ii-transfected COS-7 cells ( FIG. 3 ). Irrespective of Ii gene transfection however, we could not detect any proliferative effect of MIF on this monkey epithelial cell line (data not shown). We then examined the activity of MIF to induce ERK-1/2 activation and downstream proliferative responses in the human Raji B cell line, which expresses a high level of Ii 19 . MIF stimulated the phosphorylation of ERK-1/2 in quiescent Raji cells, and each of two anti-Ii mAbs blocked this stimulatory effect of MIF ( FIG. 4A , B). Of note, the inhibitory effect of anti-Ii on ERK-1/2 phosphorylation was associated with a significant decrease in the MIF-stimulated proliferation of these cells ( FIG. 4C ). Additionally, we confirmed the role of the MIF-Ii stimulation pathway in cells outside the immune system. MIF extends the lifespan of primary murine fibroblasts 8 , and both MIF's mitogenic effects and its induction of the ERK-1/2 signal transduction cascade have been best characterized in this cell type 7 . Fibroblasts express low levels of Ii 20 , and we observed that anti-Ii significantly inhibited both ERK-1/2 phosphorylation and the mitogenic effect of MIF on cultured fibroblasts ( FIG. 4D and data not shown). [0030] In prior experiments, we have experienced considerable difficulty in preparing a bioactive, 125 I-radiolabelled MIF, and have observed the protein to be unstable to the pH conditions employed for biotin conjugation. By contrast, modification of MIF by Alexa 488 at a low molar density produced a fully bioactive protein which enabled identification of MIF receptors on human monocytes, and the expression cloning of Ii as a cell surface MIF receptor. These data significantly expand our understanding of Ii outside of its role in the transport of class II proteins, and support recent studies which have described an accessory signaling function for Ii in B and T cell physiology 10-13 . [0031] These findings provide a first insight into the long sought-after MIF receptor, although additional proteins are likely involved in some MIF-mediated activities. For instance, like MIF, Ii is a homotrimer 23 , and the Ii intracellular domain consists of 30-46 amino acids, depending on which of two in-phase initiation codons are utilized 16 . Monocyte-encoded Ii has been shown to enhance T cell proliferative responses, and this accessory function of Ii has been linked to a specific, chondroitin-sulphate-dependent interaction between Ii and CD44 11 . We have observed an inhibitory effect of anti-CD44 on ERK-1/2 phosphorylation, but not MIF binding, in Ii-expressing cells. This is consistent with the inference that MIF-bound Ii is a stimulating ligand for CD44-mediated MAP kinase activation. CD44 is a highly polymorphic Type I transmembrane glycoprotein 24 , and CD44 likely mediates some of the downstream consequences of MIF binding to Ii. [0032] Interference in the signal transduction pathways induced by MIF-Ii interaction, for instance by providing antagonists or inhibitors of MIF-Ii interaction, offers new approaches to the modulation of cellular immune and activation responses to MIF. Agents active in this regard (agonists and antagonists and other inhibitors) have predicted therapeutic utility in diseases and conditions typified by local or systemic changes in MIF levels. [0033] The specific binding interaction between MIF and the class II invariant chain polypeptide, Ii, also makes convenient the use of labeled MIF reagents as “Trojan horse-type” vehicles by which to concentrate a desired label or toxin in cells displaying cell surface Ii. Briefly, a desired label or toxic entity is associated with an MIF ligand (for instance, by covalent attachment), and the modified MIF ligand then is presented to cells displaying cell surface-localized Ii, which class II invariant chain polypeptide binds to and causes the internalization of the modified MIF ligand, thus causing the operative cell to become specifically labeled or toxicated. The Ii-displaying cells may be exposed to the modified MIF ligand in vitro or in vivo, in which latter case Ii-displaying cells may be specifically identified or toxicated in a patient. A wide variety of diagnostic and therapeutic reagents can be advantageously conjugated to an MIF ligand (which may be biologically active, full length MIF or an Ii-binding fragment thereof, or a mutein of either of the preceding and particularly such a mutein adapted to be biologically inactive and/or to be more conveniently coupled to a labeling or toxicating entity), providing a modified MIF ligand of the invention. Typically desirable reagents coupled to an MIF ligand include: chemotherapeutic drugs such as doxorubicin, methotrexate, taxol, and the like; chelators, such as DTPA, to which detectable labels such as fluorescent molecules or cytotoxic agents such as heavy metals or radionuclides can be complexed; and toxins such as Pseudomonas exotoxin, and the like. Methods MIF And Antibodies [0034] Human recombinant MIF was purified from an E. coli expression system as described previously 22 and conjugated to Alexa 488 14 by the manufacturer's protocol (Molecular Probes, Eugene Oreg.). The average ratio of dye ligand to MIF homotrimer was 1:3, as determined by matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization mass spectrometry (Kompact probe/SEQ, Kratos Analytical Ltd, Manchester, UK). Anti-human Ii monoclonal antibodies (clones LN2 and M-B741) were obtained from PharMingen (San Jose Calif.). Flow Cytometry, Scatchard Analysis, And Confocal Microscopy [0035] THP-1 cells (2.5×10 5 cells/ml) were cultured in DMEM/10% FBS with or without IFNγ (1 ng/ml, R&D Systems, Minneapolis, Minn.) for 72 hrs. After washing, 5×10 5 cells were resuspended in 0.1 ml of medium and incubated with 200 ng of Alexa-MIF at 4° C. for 45 mins. The cells then were washed with ice-cold PBS (pH 7.4) and subjected to flow cytometry analysis (FACSCalibur, Becton Dickinson, San Jose, Calif.). In selected experiments, THP-1 monocytes or COS-7 transfectants were incubated with Alexa-MIF together with 50 μg/ml of an anti-Ii mAb or an isotypic control mAb. For Scatchard analysis, triplicate samples of IFNγ-treated, THP-1 cells (1×10 6 ) were incubated for 45 mins at 4° C. in PBS/1% FBS together with Alexa-MIF (0-1.5 μM, calculated as MIF trimer), washed 3× with cold PBS/1FBS, and analyzed by flow cytometry using CellQuest Software (Becton Dickinson, San Jose, Calif.) 29 . The specific binding curve was calculated by subtracting non-specific binding (measured in the presence of excess unlabeled MIF) from total binding. Confocal fluorescence microscopy of Alexa-MIF binding to cells was performed with an LSM 510 laser scanning instrument (Carl Zeiss, Jena Germany). THP-1 cells were incubated with INFγ for 72 hrs and washed 3× with PBS/1% FBS prior to staining for 30 mins (4° C.) with 2 g/μl of Alexa-MIF, or Alexa-MIF plus 50 ng/μl unlabeled, rMIF. cDNA Library Construction, Expression, And Cell Sorting [0036] cDNA was prepared from the poly(A) + RNA of IFNγ-activated, THP-1 monocytes, cloned into the lambdaZAP-CMV vector (Stratagene, La Jolla, Calif.), and DNA aliquots (2.5 μg/ml) transfected into 15×10 6 COS-7 cells by the DEAE-dextran method 30 . The transfected cells were incubated with Alexa-MIF for 45 min at 4° C., washed, and the positively-staining cells isolated 31 with a Moflo cell sorter (Cytomation, Fort Collins, Colo.). In a typical run, 1.5×10 7 cells/ml were injected and analyzed at a flow rate of 1×10 4 cells/sec. Recovery was generally 90%. Plasmid DNA was extracted from sorted cells using the Easy DNA kit (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) and transformed into E. coli XL-10 gold (Stratagene, La Jolla, Calif.) for further amplification. Purified plasmid DNA then was re-transfected into COS-7 cells for further rounds of sorting. After 4 rounds of cell sorting, 250 single colonies were picked at random and the insert size analyzed by PCR. Clones with inserts >1.6 Kb were individually transfected into COS-7 cells and the MIF binding activity re-analyzed by flow cytometry. In Vitro Transcription And Translation [0037] Using a full-length Ii cDNA clone as template, three truncated (1-72aa, 1-109aa, 1-149aa) and one full-length (1-232aa) Ii product were generated by PCR and subcloned into the pcDNA 3.1/V5-HisTOPO expression vector (Invitrogen). The complete nucleotide sequence of an exemplary Ii cDNA clone and the putative Ii polypeptide forms that it encodes are presented in FIG. 5 . The fidelity of vector construction was confirmed by automated DNA sequencing and the constructs then used as template for coupled transcription and translation using the T N T Reticulocyte Lysate system (Promega, Madison Wis.). The binding of [ 35 S]-labeled Ii to immobilized MIF was assessed by a 3 hr incubation at room temperature, as recommended by the TNT protocol. Activity Assays [0038] The dose-dependent phosphorylation of ERK-1/2 was measured by western blotting of cell lysates using specific antibodies directed against phospho-p44/p42 or total p44/p42 following methods described previously 7 . MIF-mediated suppression of apoptosis was assessed in serum-deprived, murine embryonic fibroblasts by immunoassay of cytoplasmic histone-associated DNA fragments (Roche Biochemicals, Indianapolis, Ind.) 8 . Proliferation studies were performed by a modification of previously published procedures 7, 8 . Human Raji B cells (American Type Tissue Culture, Rockville, Md.) were cultured in RPMI/10% FBS, plated into 96 well plates (500-1000 cells/well), and rendered quiescent by overnight incubation in RPMI/0.5% serum. The cells were washed, the RPMI/0.5% serum replaced, and the MIF and antibodies added as indicated. After an additional overnight incubation, 1 μCi of [ 3 H]-thymidine was added and the cells harvested 12 hrs later. Fibroblast mitogenesis was examined in normal human lung fibroblasts (CCL210, American Type Tissue Culture) cultured in DMEM/10% FBS, resuspended in DMEM/2% serum, and seeded into 96 well plates (150 cells/well) together with rMIF and antibodies as shown. Isotype control or anti-Ii mAbs were added at a final concentration of 50 μg/ml. Proliferation was assessed on Day 5 after overnight incorporation of [ 3 H]-thymidine into DNA. 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Sant, et al., “Biosynthetic relationships of the chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan with Ia and invariant chain glycoproteins” J. Immunol., 135, 416-422. (1985). 18. Calandra, et al., “The macrophage is an important and previously unrecognized source of macrophage migration inhibitory factor”, J. Exp. Med., 179, 1895-1902 (1994). 19. Hansen, et al., “Internalization and catabolism of radiolabelled antibodies to MHC class-II invariant chain by B-cell lymphomas”, Biochem. J. 320, 293-300 (1996). 20. Koch, et al., “Differential expression of the invariant chain in mouse tumor cells: relationship to B lymphoid development”, J. Immunol., 132, 12-15 (1984). 21. Bendrat, et al., “Biochemical and mutational investigations of the enzymatic activity of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)”, Biochemistry, 36, 15356-15362 (1997). 22. Thurman, et al., “MIF-like activity of natural and recombinant human interferon-gamma and their neutralization by monoclonal antibody”, J. Immunol., 134, 305-309 (1985). 23. Ashman, et al., “A role for the transmembrane domain in the trimerization of the MHC Class II-associated invariant chain”, J. Immunol. 163, 2704-2712 (1999). 24. Lesley, et al., “CD44 and its interaction with extracellular matrix”, Adv. Immunol., 54, 271-335 (1993). 25. Calandra, et al., “Protection from septic shock by neutralization of macrophage migration inhibitory factor”, Nature Med., 6, 164-170, (2000). 26. Bernhagen, et al, “An essential role for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in the tuberculin delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction”, J. Exp. Med., 183, 277-282 (1996). 27. Mikulowska, et al., “Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is involved in the pathogenesis of collagen type II-induced arthritis in mice”, J. Immunol., 158, 5514-5517 (1997). 28. Lan, et al., “The pathogenic role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in immunologically induced kidney disease in the rat”, J. Exp. Med., 185, 1455-1465 (1997). 29. Palupi, et al., “Bovine β-lactoglobulin receptors on transformed mammalian cells (hybridomas MARK-3): characterization by flow cytometry”, J. Biotech., 78, 171-184 (2000). 30. D'Andrea, et al., Expression cloning of the murine erythropoietin receptor, Cell, 57, 277-285. 31. Yamasaki, et al., “Cloning and expression of the human interleukin-6 (BSF-2/IFN beta 2) receptor”, Science, 241, 825-828 (1988). 32. Chesney, et al., “An essential role for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in angiogenesis and the growth of murine lymphoma”, Mol. Med., 5, 181-191 (1999). [0072] All publications and patent applications mentioned in the specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application had been specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. The discussion of the background to the invention herein is included to explain the context of the invention. Such explanation is not an admission that any of the material referred to was published, known, or part of the prior art or common general knowledge anywhere in the world as of the priority date of any of the aspects listed above. [0073] While the invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is capable of further modifications and that 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.
Methods and compositions for using the MHC class II invariant chain polypeptide, Ii (also known as CD74), as a receptor for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), are disclosed. These include methods and compositions for using this receptor, as well as agonists and antagonists of MIF which bind to this receptor, or which otherwise modulate the interaction of MIF with CD74 or the consequences of such interaction, in treatment of conditions characterized by locally or systemically altered MIF levels, particularly inflammatory conditions and cancer.
2
The Government has rights to this invention pursuant to a government contract. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to the deposition of hydrogenated amorphous silicon films or certain alloys thereof on substrates and, in particular, to an improved method and apparatus for control thereof. Photovoltaic solar cells made of thin film semiconductor layers, such as hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) may be made in a sandwich structure consisting of p i n layers. Such structures are well known in the art and typically the p type layer is boron-doped and of a thickness of about 10 nm, the i type, or intrinsic, layer is undoped and of a thickness of about 500 nm, and the n type layer is phosphorus-doped having a thickness of about 10-30 nm. The electron/hole pairs are generated in the i layer and collected by virtue of the built-in electric field which results due to the junctions formed by the p and n layers with the i layer. When i layers are grown they may ultimately be characterized as slightly n type (n - ) or slightly p type (p - ) depending on the background impurities caused by other materials being present within the chamber during the deposition process. It is existing practice in the art to grow the i layer without strictly controlling the characteristic p - or n - that the i layer may take. The reason for this is that at the present time, there are no known methods for measuring such low levels of impurities, of the order of 10 -6 , in a glow discharge atmosphere during deposition. The resulting type of the i layer (p - or n - ) can have a substantial influence on the conversion efficiency of a particular solar cell structure. The present invention permits precise control of the characteristic p - or n - that the i layer may take by the novel use of the photovoltaic properties of the outer surface of the i layer being grown. That is, since only a very thin outer layer of a-Si:H will absorb a substantial amount of light of a particular frequency a photovoltage is thereby generated at its surface which is indicative of it characteristic p - or n - type. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, there is provided a coating apparatus and method for the deposition of hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) layers or semiconducting alloys of such layers on substrates. The apparatus includes an evacuable chamber having a support member contained therein for supporting the substrate or object to be coated. A reactant gas is disposed throughout the interior of the chamber. A charging means is provided for inducing a glow discharge in the reactant gas adjacent the substrate, or other object to be coated. The glow discharge activates the silane gas which then forms a-Si:H when it impinges on a solid surface. A means is provided for illuminating the surface of the substrate within the chamber with radiation of a predetermined wavelength. Further means is provided for measuring the photovoltage at the outer most surface of the illuminated substrate and for admixing amounts of p type dopant and n type dopant to the reactant gas in response to the measured photovoltage to achieve a desired level and type of doping of the deposited layer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING The FIGURE is a longitudinal cross-section view of a reactor in schematic representation form incorporating the teachings of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring to the FIGURE, there is shown a reactor 10 having a body 12, which may be of cylindrical or other convenient shape, and a pair of ends 14 and 15 which form an enclosed interior chamber 16. The ends 14 and 15 are joined to the body 12 so that the chamber may be evacuated to a pressure of the order of 10 -6 torr. An outlet port 20 is formed in the body 12 adjacent one end of the chamber 16 and is in communication with a vacuum pump assembly 22 through a suitable conduit 24. The vacuum pump assembly 22 is of the usual configuration for such applications, generally including a filter, vacuum gage, shut-off valve, roots blower, and mechanical vacuum pump, all of which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further here. An inlet port 30 is formed in the body 12 adjacent the other end of the chamber 16 and is in communication with a source 32 of reactant gas through a suitable conduit 34. The source 32 of the reactant gas may include bottles containing silane (SiH 4 ) and a carrier gas argon (Ar), or any other reactant gases commonly used for this purpose, and is interconnected with suitable valving, flow meters, and leak valves. As schematically shown in the FIGURE, means 36 is provided for admixing amounts of p type dopant and n type dopant to the reactant gas of the source 32. These devices and their application to systems for deposition of hydrogenated silicon are well known in the art and therefore will not be further described here. A substrate holder 40 is disposed within the chamber 16 in heat exchange contact with a heating element 42 having embedded therein a resistive heating winding 44. The winding 44 is electrically connected to a suitable power source located outside the chamber 16. The substrate holder 40 is rigidly held in place by suitable brackets, not shown, that extend and are attached to the inner wall of the body 12. The heating element 42 is attached to the surface 50 of the substrate holder 40 by any suitable means such as screw fasteners, not shown. A plurality of substrates 54 that are to receive a coating of hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) are attached to the surface 51 of the holder 40 by means of spring clips, not shown, or other mechanical clamps that are commonly used for this purpose. The substrate holder 40 may be fabricated from any suitable material that is electrically conductive such as graphite, molybdenum, stainless steel, and the like, thus forming an electrode within the reactor chamber 16. A second electrode 60, being of the same general shape and size as the substrate holder 40, is disposed adjacent and spaced apart therefrom as shown in FIG. 1. A surface 62 of the electrode 60 is arranged substantially parallel to the substrate holder surface 51. The electrode 60 is supported within the chamber 16 by a cylindrical rod 64, made of a material similar to that of the electrode 60, which projects through the body 12 and is rigidly held in place by a bushing 66. The rod 64 and body 12 are suitably sealed to assure adequate evacuation of the chamber 16 by the pump assembly 22. A shroud 70 is arranged to closely conform to and be spaced apart from the surfaces of the electrode 60 and rod 64 except for the surface 62. This arrangement prevents, or inhibits deposition on the surfaces of the electrode 60 and rod 64 exclusive of the surface 62 in a manner that is well known in the art. In the present embodiment of this invention, the reactor 10 includes a second chamber 80 which is in communication with the chamber 16 via a narrow passageway 83 formed in the end 15 as shown in FIG. 1. An electrostatic millivoltmeter 82 is disposed within the second chamber 80 so that the voltage sensor 84 is adjacent the passageway 83. One commercially available millivoltmeter that is suitable for this purpose is the "Isoprobe Electrostatic Millivoltmeter, Model 162 S/N, manufactured by Monroe Electronics Inc., Lyndonville, N.Y.". The millivoltmeter is electrically connected to a power source 86 via the circuit 88 which enters the second chamber 80 through a suitable seal 90. A waveguide 100 is arranged for guiding electromagnetic radiation from a radiation source 102 to the interior of the second chamber 80 proximate to the voltage sensor 84. In the present embodiment of this invention, electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of approximately 400 nm (visible blue light) is used for reasons that will become apparent later. The waveguide 100 comprises a bundle of optical fibers which enter the second chamber 80 through a suitable seal 104. The seals 90 and 104 are sufficiently tight so that adequate evacuation of the chambers 16 and 80 by the pump assembly 22 is assured. A manually operable transport member 110 is supported in a bushing 112 for sliding movement as indicated by the arrows A and B shown in FIG. 1. The transport member 110 includes a handle 114, a shank 116 of cylindrical shape, and a substrate holder end 118 to which is attached a substrate 54 in the manner described above. An annular seal 120, is arranged to engage the outer circumference of the shank 116 so that the pressure within the evacuated chambers 16 and 80 is maintained while permitting sliding movement of the transport member 110. There are a variety of commercially available shaft seals suitable for this purpose. In operation, several substrates 54, or other objects to be coated, are attached to the surface 51 of the substrate holder 40 and one is attached to the end 118 of the transport member 110. A constant temperature of about 250° C. is maintained within the substrates by applying a suitable voltage to the resistive heater windings 44. A dry nitrogen gas is introduced into the chambers 16 and 80 for continuous purging thereof. Apparatus for purging is well known in the art and therefore is not shown. The chambers 16 and 80 are then evacuated to a pressure of about 0.1 to 0.2 torr and maintained at this pressure by means of a controlled dry nitrogen leak for about ten minutes. Silane gas from the source 32 is then introduced through the inlet port 30 and into the chamber 16. Since the passageway 82 is very narrow, little or no deposition of a-Si:H will occur within the chamber 80. As the silane gas flows over the surfaces of the substrates, a potential of 200 to 900 volts D.C. or a suitable A.C. voltage of approximately 13.6 megahertz is applied to the substrate holder 40 and the electrode 60 via the leads 160 and 162 respectively. This causes a glow discharge to occur thereby depositing a-Si:H on the surface of the substrates 54. Periodically, as the a-Si:H film grows, the transport member is manually moved in the direction as indicated by the arrow A until the substrate 54 attached to the end 118 is directly over the voltage sensor 84 and is illuminated by blue light from the optical fiber waveguide 100. The surface photovoltage of the outer most layer of a-Si:H is sensed by the sensor 84 and indicated on a suitable display device. This voltage, as mentioned above, is indicative of the characteristic type (p - or n - ) of the layer that is being grown. A relatively thin layer, about 10-20 nm thick, of a-Si:H will absorb a substantial amount of blue light, having a wavelength of approximately 400 nm. If the thin layer is of p - type, a substantial negative photovoltage will be thereby generated at the surface which may be monitored. Conversely, if the a-Si:H layer is of n - type the photovoltage at the surface will be nearly zero. Therefore, a given film having a very thin outer layer will have a surface photovoltage characteristic of the p - or n - type of the outer layer independent of the type of the underlying layers of the film. It is a simple matter then to admix amounts of B 2 H 6 or PH 3 , or some other appropriate impurity to the reactant gas, to adjust the characteristic type of succeeding layers to that which is desired, e.g., p - , n - or fully compensated. By way of example, surface photovoltage measurements were taken of two sample substrates, each having a layer of a-Si:H deposited thereon. The first sample having been lightly doped with a small excess of diborane (B 2 H 6 ) exhibited a p - type and the second sample having been lightly doped with a small excess of phosphine (PH 3 ) exhibited an n - type. Surface voltage measurements of the two samples with respect to a gold film were taken in complete darkness resulting in a measured surface voltage of 840 mV for both n - and p - type layers. There was no discernible difference in the surface voltage for the two samples. Surface photovoltage measurements were then taken of the same samples while being illuminated by blue light. The light source was white light having an intensity near AMI which was then passed through a blue filter. The intensity of the blue light was not determined. The first sample yielded a surface photovoltage of -190 mV while the second sample yielded a surface photovoltage of zero. Such a substantial difference in photovoltage output of the two samples indicates that this technique of determining the characteristic p - or n - type of the a-Si:H layers is extremely sensitive. While a specific process and structure for the deposition of hydrogenated amorphous silicon and the monitoring and control of its characteristic p - or n - type has been described herein, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations may be made without departing from the spirit and intent of the presently disclosed inventive concept. The reactor itself may be any one of a variety of rf or dc glow discharge, rf reactive sputtering, or CVD reactors known in the art. Further, as an alternative to moving the substrate 54 being coated into the second chamber 80 for illumination and measurement, it would be equally satisfactory to move the illuminating tip of the fiber optic cable 100 and the millivoltmeter 82 into close proximity to the substrate for measurement. Another equally satisfactory arrangement would be to permanently position the illuminating tip of the cable 100 and the voltage sensor 84 of the millivoltmeter 82 adjacent the substrate 54 within the chamber 16. A shroud and suitable shutter arrangement would inhibit or prevent deposition on the surfaces of the voltage sensor 84 and the illuminating tip of the cable 100. These structures are considered obvious variations of the invention disclosed herein.
An improved method and apparatus for the controlled deposition of a layer of hydrogenated amorphous silicon on a substrate. Means is provided for the illumination of the coated surface of the substrate and measurement of the resulting photovoltage at the outermost layer of the coating. Means is further provided for admixing amounts of p type and n type dopants to the reactant gas in response to the measured photovoltage to achieve a desired level and type of doping of the deposited layer.
2
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the field of structural supports for plants, vines and the like. More specifically, the present invention relates to a structural system having connectable and removable loops of adjustable length which can be used to support plants and vines without choking off the flow of nutrients which results from pressure tying. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Structural elements for supporting plants have been known which include wooden stakes and the like. Staking a plant with a straight length of support material requires jabbing the stake into the ground near the center of the plant's root system, and tying the plant at various heights to the stake. Damage may result to the plant from the jabbing action of the stake, especially where a major root path is severed. In supporting the plant from the stake, the plant may be secured with twist ties. This action can dig into the plant's vascular system and literally choke off nutrients to the plant. Where the twist tie is applied loosely, it may allow the plant and tie to "slip" downward on the stake and defeat the purpose of introducing the stake to begin with. Other methods of attachment such as rubber bands are difficult to loop around the plant, and will eventually rot. In most cases, the stake has no appendage to prevent the tying structure from slipping downwardly on the stake. The individual who stakes the plant will try to engage as few ties as possible in order to save time and go on to the next plant. This increases the pressure at the points of engagement on the plant and further places the plant in danger of food and water cutoff, and partial wilting can occur. Thus, especially in commercial applications where the workers are in a hurry, the potential for tying the plant too tight is a real problem. Even where other structures are provided on the stakes, the potential exists for tying the plants too tightly. Usually these structures have to be added by the user, and will exist in the form of nails, staples or other sharp objects which could not only damage the plant, but injure the user. The addition of these structures adds even more time to the staking operation, as well as some danger. Other labor additions with regard to the staking activity includes the time to attach sections of stake or to cut longer sections of stake down as needed to conserve stake material. Further, there is a tradeoff between the amount of material to use in a stake for sturdiness, versus the savings in material which will enable proper staking to occur. Since most stake material is made of wood in an unfinished state, the stakes may not last for any length of time, much beyond one staking. As such, the material used may be minimum which will make more difficult the driving of the stakes into the ground. Where the material is especially absent, the stakes may break when being struck into hard ground. The result is a tradeoff which is present due to the choice of materials. Other materials can be used, such as steel rods and the like, but they are simply too expensive, and will eventually rust. Rusting rods can present a hazard to workers, and may spoil some plant environments. Many of the same disadvantages which relates to a simple staking operation are amplified where a more complex and complete support structure for plants is desired. In the example of the trellis, much more work is required. A trellis is typically used to support a bulky area of a plant over a wide support area. The problems of adequate support and tying are magnified. The result is usually a flat wood structure, having a cross or diagonal cross pattern. The trellis is required to be built to full height before the plant is planted, since the addition of further support as the plant grows is unfeasible. Further, since the larger portion of the trellis will be exposed during growth, it is usually painted and requires high craftsmanship and must stand alone artistically in addition to providing support for a plant. The result is that the trellis should be purchased in a pre-formed state, since the machinery required is quite specialized. The user can build a trellis with wood, a table saw and paint, but the effort is significant and the cost is high. In either case, such a trellis cannot be driven into the ground, but has to have a special trench dug and then filled in. Alternatively, other structures can be driven into the ground and bolted to the trellis structure. This again involves precise placement of the support structure, as well as additional materials and equipment to perform the anchoring. For other applications such as pot plants and barrel plants, a central staking structure is insufficient. Here, the plant owner is faced with the challenge of building an erector set type of structure, and other solutions for attachment of the plant. Solutions which include a series of stakes and string appear amateurish and aesthetically unpleasing. Where the stake and string material is particularly visible, the effect of having the plant in the first place can be negated. In addition, it may be difficult to fashion a support system which follows the growth of the plant so as to maintain inconspicuousness of the plant support. What is therefore needed is a plant support system which will support staking, trellis and barrel configurations in an aesthetically pleasing way. The desired system will be adjustable without undue activities by the user. The adjustment should enable the user to expand and contract the support system in congruence with the plant system. The needed system should be as unnoticeable as possible. The needed system should provide an adequate number and spacing for tie points. The needed system must enable the securing of the plant to be done in a way which will not injure the plant and in which the plant can grow. Further, the plant attachment system should enable attachability and detachability for rapid re-adjustment as the plant is extended through it as the plant grows. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The plant system of the present invention is preferably made of plastic and even more preferably made of clear acrylic structural members. Such acrylic members can take on the color of the surrounding plants and "blend" into the background created by the plants. Further, the clear members can be transparently colored to give different transparent hues to accent adjacent plants. Of course, the members can be solidly colored to give a high sheen brilliantly decorative look. The acrylic members have abbreviated length attachment members which extend from opposite sides of the structural members. The attachment members have a differing diameter. The outermost portion has a smaller diameter which facilitates the initial overfitting of a plastic strap having a plurality of apertures. The strap is moved to surround the plant portion to be supported and the other end's aperture is also fitted over the attachment member. The resulting loop extends widely around the plant portion giving it adequate room for growth and further extension through the loop. The system, including the structural members and attachment members can be interconnected using a series of connectors to form a trellis or other support shape. The system members are intended to be permanent, but reconfigurable. In this fashion, structural members will always be available to afford quick replacement and add-on. The system includes connectors which enable a variety of different shapes, BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention, its configuration, construction, and operation will be best further described in the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the plant support system of the present invention shown over a barrel structure; FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line 2--2 of FIG. 1 and illustrating a cross section of a rectangularly shaped stake support and its strap; FIG. 3 is a sectional view similar to that shown in FIG. 2 but illustrating a cross section of a round stake support and its strap; FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the four way connector shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a four way connector for use with the round stake support of FIG. 3; FIG. 6 is a plan view of the angle connector shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 7 is a plan view of a "T" connector; FIG. 8 is a plan view of a "TeePee" connector which when fitted with stake supports would direct them downwardly forming a TeePee structure; FIG. 9 is a plan view of an arrowhead connector utilizable with a non-pointed end support to facilitate insertion of the end support into the ground or soil; FIG. 10 is an end view of the arrowhead connector of FIG. 9; FIG. 11 is a plan view of a simple connector to connect two pieces of the support of the present invention; FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a "Y" connector which maybe used to connect two different lengths of the support of the present invention; FIG. 13 is a top view of an angularly adjustable four sided connector which can be used to enable adjustment of the angles of connectors about a central axis; FIG. 14 is a side sectional view of the angularly adjustable four sided connector of FIG. 13; FIG. 15 is a side sectional view of a second embodiment of an angularly adjustable four sided connector as first shown in FIG. 13; FIG. 16 is a plan view of a trellis which can be formed using the system of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view of a member having a hexagonal cross section with oppositely oriented supports; FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view of a member having an "H" cross sectional shape with oppositely oriented supports; FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of a member having a triangular cross sectional shape and which can have from one to three supports; FIG. 20 is a side view of a round member but having connectors which enable the round member to act as both a stake and a support, and including a base member from which the round member can engage and depend for support; FIG. 21 is an expanded side view of a second version of the supports utilizable in conjunction with the structural support system of the present invention; FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a pot containing soil and having a series of handled strap stakes inserted into the soil; FIG. 23 is a plan view of a cross connector and illustrating an open bore, small projection, and a matching small void; FIG. 24 illustrates the cross connector of FIG. 23 in conjunction with connected round support members; FIG. 25 is a cross sectional of the cross connector of FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrating additional details of the open bore, small projection, and a matching small void; and FIG. 26 illustrates a second embodiment of a cross connector utilizing engagement arms displaced from the area of mating connection; and FIG. 27 illustrates a cross sectional view of a member having a cross shaped cross sectional shape. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT The description and operation of the invention will be best described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one version of the plant support system of the present invention shown over a barrel-shaped pot 21, shown in phantom, An elongate stake support 23 is shown to the right of the pot 21. Stake support 23, and all of the members recited herein can be clear and colorless, or translucently colored to a variety of hues to give the special effect sought to be displayed by a plant arrangement. The elongate stake support 23 has a series of supports 25 extending from opposite sides of the elongate stake support 23. The elongate stake support 23 is so termed because one of its ends is formed into a point 27 to facilitate the insertion into soil 29 supported by the pot 21. In FIG. 1, the supports are located on opposite sides of the elongate stake support 23 and all lie in a common plane. Note further that the distribution of the supports 23 on one side of the support 23 are offset with respect to the supports 23 on the other side of the support 23. The same is also true for other structural supports shown, which will be discussed below. Of course, any configuration is possible, but the offset configuration is believed to provide the greatest utility in positioning support to be applied to the plants. At the top of the elongate stake support 23 is an angle connector 31 which connects the elongate stake support 23 to a elongate structural support 33. A pair of plants 39 and 37 are shown as growing from the soil 29 and are supported by the system of the present invention. Typically the system will be used for situations where a multitude of plants 39 and 37 will be growing, but only two are shown for clarity and to facilitate explanation thereof. In the pot 21, four of the stake supports are shown, each capped with an angle connector 31. Each of the angle connectors is attached to a horizontal elongate structural support 33. At the center of the elongate structural support 33 is a four way connector 41 which joins the four horizontally disposed structural supports 33. Plants 39 and 37 is secured by a connector strap 43 which is engaged onto a strap support 25. In practice, the additional plants in the pot 21 would be supported by the stake supports 23 as well as the structural supports 33. As can be seen, plants can be multiply supported to form a circular surface of plant support. With trimming and controlled growth, the system can provide even support about the periphery of the pot 21 as well as above the horizontally disposed structural supports 33. Note how loosely the connector strap 43 surrounds the plant 39. The plant 39 has leaves 45 which can, since growth occurs slowly, be passed through the connector strap 43. Both the structural supports 33 and the stake supports 23 can have not only the square cross sectional area shown in FIG. 1, but a circular cross sectional area as well. Referring to FIG. 2, a sectional view taken along line 2--2 of FIG. 1 illustrates the clear nature of the material, as well as an expanded view of the strap support 25. From its outermost end, the strap support 25 has an outer reduced diameter portion 51 which leads into a maximum diameter portion 55 and then to an inner reduced diameter portion 53 which is located between the main body of the strap support 25 and the maximum diameter portion 55. As can be seen, the strap 43 has two of its ends overlapping and both fitted onto the strap support 25 by means of apertures 59. The design of the strap support 25 is such that the ends of the strap 43 can be loaded over the strap support 25 one at a time. This facilitates the securing of the plant. Once one end of the strap 43 is loaded onto the strap support 25, the plant 39 portion to be secured can be gently surrounded by the other end of the strap 43 and pressed into place onto the strap support 25. The configuration shown in FIG. 2 illustrates an important aspect of the system of the present invention. The manual pressure brought to bear on the strap 43 against the strap support 25 is performed without placing any pressure on the plant 39 portion surrounded by the strap 43. This can be distinguished from tying, where pressure on the plant 39 portion is direct. Referring to FIG. 3, an alternative embodiment, including a round (stake or structural) support 61 is shown as engaged with the strap 43. In both FIG. 3 and FIG. 2, the strap support 25 can be the same. Other differences between the round stake support 61 and the rectangular or square elongate stake support 23 will include the way that they bend light and show up in and among the plants. The round stake support 61 may have a tendency to focus light and to show up more prominently than the square elongate stake support 23. Referring to FIG. 3A, an exploded view of the structures of FIG. 2 is shown. The aperture 59 of the strap 43 is shown, as is another shape variation of the stake support 25 is shown as a bulb shaped support 62, and includes outer reduced diameter portion 51, maximum diameter portion 55, and inner reduced diameter portion 53. The bulb shaped support 62 may be formed integrally with the round support 61 or it may be provided as a separate structure to be attached by gluing or other method, to a support such as support 61, 33 or 23. The rear surface of the support 62 may assume a shape compatible with the support to which it is to be attached. Referring to FIG. 4, the four way connector 41 is shown in perspective view. The four way connector 41 has four legs in the same plane, each of which has an bore 63. In addition, a center aperture 65 will accept engagement by any rectangular elongate stake support 23 or non-stake support 33. In terms of the fit, it is preferable for each bore 63 to have a slight frustrum shape in order to form a press fit with the flat end of any rectangular elongate stake support 23 or non-stake support 33. The alternative, having the flat end of the rectangular elongate stake support 23 or non-stake support 33 to be frustrum shaped would apply the maximum point of pressure at the mouth of each of the bores 63 which might cause splitting or spreading. By making the bore 63 frustrum shaped, the maximum point of stress will occur about half to two-thirds to three-fourths the way up the bore 63, a more preferable locale for pressure. The deeper within the bore 63 is the stopping point for the end of the support 23 or 33, the more stable the fit, and less angular displacement will be allowed. Referring to FIG. 5, a four way connector 67 is shown having rounded extension surfaces and including bores 69, and a central aperture 71. Connector 67 works in the same way as connector 41, and the apertures 69 would be expected to be gently internally tapered. Referring to FIG. 6, a plan view of angle connector 31 better illustrates the relative location of the bore 63. Other connectors are possible, such as the "T" shaped connector 73 shown in FIG. 7. Here, two of the bores 63 lie along the same axis, while a third bore 63 has an axis perpendicular to the axis for the first two. Referring to FIG. 8, a TeePee connector 75 is shown with three downwardly directed members 77, each having a bore 63. Here, the TeePee connector 75 is shown with three downwardly directed members 77, but four, five, six or more may be used for more of an umbrella effect. The downwardly directed members 77 are evenly distributed about the central axis of the TeePee. The angular deviation from a planar orientation, shown for four way connector 67, can vary from a steep angle to a gently downward angle. Referring to FIG. 9, a four bladed point connector 79 is illustrated as having a four edged slot 81 which fits over the flat end of a elongate structural support 33 which was illustrated in FIG. 1. This four bladed point connector 79 can be used with one of the structural supports 33 to better enable it to be inserted into the soil. The connector 79 is made of two triangular expanses of material defining a seemingly sharpened point. The point is formed with respect to each triangle where two of the three sides of the triangle meet at a sharp angle of less than about 50°. The two expanses of material lie in planes which are approximately at right angles to each other but which may deviate from such right-angled relationship by up to about 20°. Because the slot 81 has four sides and plenty of space extending out between the blades, this structure can fit over either the round structural support 61, or the or square elongate stake support 23. Referring to FIG. 10, a top view, taken along line 10--10, with a round structural support 61 shown in dashed line format, inserted into the bladed point connector 79. The internal surface 81 of each blade immediately abuts the external surface of the outside of the round structural support 61. Alternatively, in the case of a square elongate structural support 33, it is the center of the square perimeters which would abut the internal surface 81. Referring to FIG. 11, a connector 83, which is shown in plan view, contains a pair of oppositely oriented bores 63 along the same axis. The connector 83 can be of round or square cross section. Consequently the bores can be of any shape to match the outside surface of elongate structural support 33. In the case of FIG. 11, and for illustration, it is assumed that connector 83 is of square shape and that the bores are bores 63. A connector 83 which has a transition from a square external shape to a round external shape would probably show a transition midway along the length. If the connector 83 were round, the bores would be labeled 69 and there would be some shading as appears in FIG. 5. Referring to FIG. 12, a sectional view of a connector 85 illustrates a structure which could be used to interfit between two sizes of square elongate structural support 33 or two of the same size, or between two sizes of round structural support 61, or two of the same size, or between a round structural support 61 and a square elongate structural support 33. The support 85 includes a blind bore 87 and an extended pin 89. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the external width of square structural supports 33 joined are the same, but variations on this are contemplated. Referring to FIG. 13, a multiple hinged structure 101 is shown which has four hinged members 103, held in place by opposing pairs of flanges 105. Each hinged member 103 is held in place by means of a pin 107. The pin 107 may be press fit into an aperture (not shown in FIG. 13). Typically the hinged member 103 will have a bore which is larger than the pin 107 to allow easy pivoting about the pin 107. The hinged member 103 carries a bore 109 similar to the bore 63 in the case of a square support 33, and similar to the bore 69 in the case of a round support 61. Hinged member 103 also has a square central bore 111 which can accept the square support 33. Where the hinged member 103 is fitted completely for use with the round support 61, the central bore 111 will be round. As before, the internal surface of central bores 111, and 109 have a gradually sloped surface which will interfit with either of the square supports 33 or round supports 61. The multiple hinged structure 101 can be large enough to support the square support 33 or the round support 61 directly, or with the use of a connector 85. Where the multiple hinged structure 101 is required to be extra sturdy, the bores 109 can fit the structural supports 33 directly. Where less elongate structural support 33 is needed and dimensional aesthetics are important, the outside of the hinged members 103 can be made to be the same size as the elongate structural support 33. Referring to FIG. 14, where a smaller connector 85 is used, the hinged member 103 can be fitted with an insert 113 which may or may not be identical to the connector 83 (see FIG. 11), to enable adaption to the proper sized member. The insert 113 will also preferably be press fit against the graduated internal surface of the hinged member 103. Regardless of size, the bores 109 should be gently tapered to enable an interference fit significantly far in from the mouth of the bores 109 to prevent any excess stress from being applied there. The hinged member 103 is in the shape of a golf club, and has a flat portion 115 which opposes a flat surface 117. Thus, the hinged member 103 can pivot downwardly but only to a stop point where the flat surface 117 opposes flat portion 115. The insert 113 carries bores 119, and bores 119 may be of any size. Referring to FIG. 15, a second embodiment of a multiple hinge member 121 is shown and which is similar to the multiple hinge member 101. Multiple hinge member 121, rather than have an insert, has its internal mass filled in to a level where smaller bores 119 are formed in the internal mass 123. The other structures are similar to those for multiple hinge member 101 except for the four hinge members. Here four hinge members are labeled 125, and rather than having a flat portion 115 opposing flat surface 117, hinge members 125 have a curved surface 127 which is shaped to place increasing amounts of pressure on flat surface 117 as the hinge member 125 is brought downwardly. Thus, downward movement is limited by the bearing and frictional pressure from the surfaces 117 and 127. In addition, a cap member 129 may be supplied to block off the upper bore 119 opening for aesthetic reasons. Referring to FIG. 16, one possible configuration for a trellis 141 is shown formed with the round supports 61 and the round four way connector 67. A series of round supports 61, with the four bladed point connector 79, similar to stake supports 23, except for the fact that they are round, are inserted into the ground 145. The other members are built onto the stake supports 23 using four way connectors 67 and "T" connectors 147. The T connectors 147 are similar to the rectangular cross section T connectors 73, except they are round in order to accommodate the round structural supports 61. The Advantage of this configuration is that only the bottom level of round supports 61 need be added when the plants are of short height. As the plants grow, additional levels of structural supports 61 can be added with the appropriate connectors. This system also helps in providing clearance at the top of the plant for trimming. A regular trellis, protruding through the center of a depth of plant would vastly complicate the trimming thereof. The trimming action must occur along the front half, and perhaps between the vertical members of a standard trellis if they exist. The half of the plant or bush behind the trellis is virtually impossible to reach with a trimmer and would cause great difficulty. Further, the additional trellis members can be added through various thicknesses of plants. For example, even though the trellis 141 is shown in a stage higher than a plant 149, the plant 149 is positioned to show that the remaining height of the trellis, including the structural support 61A labeled for identification above the bush 149, could have been freshly inserted into the existing T connector 147 which was inside the perimeter of the growing plant 149. Thus, the top of the growing plant 149 could be trimmed with a hedge trimmer, with no interference from the structure forming the trellis 147. Of course, once the strap support 25 has been engaged with connector strap 43, it may involve some effort in removing the connector strap 43 from around a growing plant, but the effort is more dependent upon how thick and/or thorny the plant or bush 149 becomes. Referring to all of the Figures, the strap 25 will typically be located on the opposite sides of the structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23. Of course, the stake supports 23 could extend from all sides of the structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23. Since it is preferred that the supports be formed integrally with such structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23, the placement of the strap 25 on the opposite sides thereof will facilitate injection molding. This is because the maximum diameter portion 55 would tend to pull away from the inner reduced diameter portion 53 in the case of a standard two-part mold. The alternative is to provide a series of holes in the structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23, and then to provide a series of insertable strap 25 which may be press fit or glued into place. However, it is preferable to form the supports integral since the structural integrity of the resulting structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23 will be enhanced. Alternatively, the structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23 could be provided with through-bores into which two ended strap 25 can be inserted. Such a through-bore would further weaken the support into which it was formed. It is understood that the number of strap 25 which may be provided per unit length of the structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23 can vary as desired. Since these members can be rapidly injection molded the provision of a high density of strap 25 along their length may be desirable, particularly if a multiple variety of closely varying supports are to be made. Although the structural supports 33 and 61, and the stake supports 23 are preferably made of a strong support material, and preferably clear, it is expected that the connector strap 43 may be made of a material which is strong and flexible, such as polypropylene or other material which will be enabled to fit over the supports 25 and provide long lasting support. In addition to the square and round members shown in FIGS. 1-16, a variety of other cross sectional shapes are possible. Referring to FIG. 17, a hexagonally shaped member 151 has oppositely oriented strap 25. The hexagonal shape of the member 151 gives a gem effect to light entering and leaving the member 151. This cross sectional shape not only provides more than adequate structural support, but also accentuates the play of light on or through the member 151. The opposite orientation of the strap 25 again facilitates the manufacture of the member 151 by providing a bi-lateral symmetry which can easily be removed from an injection mold. Referring to FIG. 18, an "H" shaped member 153 has oppositely oriented strap 25. The "H" shape of the member 153 enables enhanced structural support with less material consumed in manufacture. Although the shape drawn is an "H" shape having squared lines meeting at right angles, a variation on this "H" shape may entail gentler sloping intersecting surfaces. The relaxation on the complete right angled intersection may further facilitate manufacture by making the member 153 easier to remove from the injection mold. Again, the opposite orientation of the strap 25 again facilitates the manufacture of the member 151 by providing a bi-lateral symmetry. Referring to FIG. 19, a triangular shaped cross section is demonstrated in a member 155. In this case, the presence of three strap 25 in a non-bilaterally symmetrical member may require additional manufacturing considerations, but the member 155 can be made with strap 25 existing on a single side of the member 155. In this case, the bi-lateral symmetry is preserved and manufacturing is again facilitated. Alternate configurations for connectability of the members 23, 33, 61, 151, 153, and 155 can also be achieved. Referring to FIG. 20, a round support member 161, is used as an example. The round support member 161 has a lower, somewhat pointed end 163 having a small projection 165. The round support member 161 has an upper, somewhat substantiated connector portion 167. The connector portion 167 has a space 169 which generally mates with the pointed end 163 of the member 161. A small void 171 is provided which will interfit with and engage small projection 165 when a structure having the shape of pointed end 163 is brought into interfitting contact with the connector portion 167. The advantage of this configuration is that both a stake and connector system is provided simultaneously. The end 163 can be used to stake the member 161 into the ground, the small projection 165 providing minimal additional resistance over a standard point shaped end. In fact, the lower most end of the member 161 can be made to any sharpness, although a slightly blunted end would increase safety without a considerable increase in loss of utility as a soil jabbing structure. Further, the configuration of FIG. 20 can just as easily be used as a horizontal structural support, such as horizontal structural support 33. A system embodying the structures on member 161 can be used with connectors (to be shown) to build the trellis shown in FIG. 16. Referring still to FIG. 20, and at the bottom of the figure, a planar support 173 is shown having a smaller round connector boss 175 at its center. The connector boss 175 also has the small void 171 which mates with the small projection 165. In this configuration, the expanded surface area occupied by the connector boss 175 ensures a good bond with the planar support 173. The combination of the planar support 173 and round connector boss 175 form a horizontal support 177. Referring to FIG. 21, a closeup taken about detail line 21-21 of FIG. 20 illustrates a more detailed and alternate design for the strap 25 of the present invention. Rather than have an outer reduced diameter portion 51, maximum diameter portion 53, and inner reduced diameter portion 55 as was shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the strap 25 may have a first frusto-conic section portion 183 having a more severe angle with respect to the axis of the strap 25, bounded by a second frusto-conic section portion 185 having a lesser angle of severity with respect to the axis of the support 25, and finally leading to a curved neck portion 187 having a concave side profile as depicted in FIG. 21. Referring to FIG. 22, a slightly different version of the round support member 161 is shown as a handled strap stake 191. Art upper handle 193 overlies the strap 25 to facilitate the manual insertion of the handled strap stake 191 into soil. The lower ends of the handled strap stake 191 are identical to the lower end 163 of the round support member 161, and thus may include the small projection 165. The handled strap stakes 191 are shown inserted into soil 195 supported by pot 197. A length of support line 199 is shown engaged about four such stakes as one possible configuration. In the alternative, the support line 199 may be individual lengths of a connector strap 43, or one continuous connector strap. In this configuration, one connector strap may connect with several handled strap stakes 191. Referring to FIG. 23, a tipped cross connector 201 is illustrated. The connector 201, like the substantiated connector portion 167 has an upper portion defining a space 169 having a small void 171. The lower end of the connector 201 has a small projection 165. Thus, the connectors 201 can be snapped together, one end into the other to form a chain. However, the most preferable use is as an extension to the end of round support member 161. planar support 173. The middle of the connector 201 has an open bore 203 bounded by an upper angled lip 205 and a lower angled lip 207 to help guide the surface of a round support member 161 into an interlocking relationship within the open bore 203. With this configuration, the connector 201 serves to not only connect two separate round support members 161, but also to provide the ability to connect the two separate round support members 161 to a horizontally extending member, which may also be a separate round support member 161. Referring to FIG. 24 this arrangement is shown where a pointed end 163 of a round support member 161 is inserted into a space 169 of the connector 201, where the connector 201 tip end is inserted into a substantiated connector portion 167 of a round support member 161. A length of round support 161 is shown at a right angle to the other two round connectors 161, and held within the open bore 203. As can be seen, the connector 201 can engage a round support member at any point along the length of the round connector 161 which enables a picket of variously spaced, vertically extending interconnected round connectors to depend from one or more horizontally oriented round supports 161. The trellis shown in FIG. 16 can thus be constructed from a series of round supports 161 and connectors 201. FIG. 25 illustrates a cross sectional view of the connector 201 which illustrates the physical extent of the open bore 203, the small void 171, and the small projection 165. From a radial perspective, the void 171 and projection 165 need not lie within a radial plane perpendicular to the axis of the open bore 203, nor do void 171 and projection 165 need lie within a common radial plane. The arrangement of FIG. 25 is configured for illustration purposes only. Referring to FIG. 26, a slightly different embodiment of the connector 201 is shown in the form of a connector 211. The connector 211 works in conjunction with a round support 213 having a groove 215 encircling the round support 212 near a tip end of the round support 213. The connector 211 has a round portion 217 into which the tip end of connector 211 fits. Connector 211 has a pair of engagement arms 219 which are oppositely disposed and extend above the round portion 217 of connector 211 so that the engagement arms 219 can flex slightly to engage the groove 215. The open bore 203 of the connector 211 has structures identical with those same structures located on connector 201. The lower end of connector 211 has a groove 221 which is of the same type and diameter profile as the groove 215, and located near the tip end of the connector 211. The connector 211 is shown engaging a round support 213 having a substantiated connector portion 223. A horizontally oriented round support 213 is shown secured by the connector 211, in an orientation similar to that shown in FIG. 24. The location of the engagement arms 219 in a position displaced from the enclosed volume securing the tip end of either the round support 213 or the tip end of the connector 211 enables flexibility in design, especially where selection of materials is concerned. Where relatively harder and relatively inflexible materials are used, there may be little deformation which would allow engagement within a closed space. Conversely, softer and more deformable materials will enable the use of a design where the engagement arms 219 may be the preferable mode of attachment. Referring to FIG. 27, a cross shaped cross sectional configuration is shown for a cross shaped member 231 and has oppositely oriented strap 25. The cross shape of the member 231 can also give a gem effect to light entering and leaving the member 231. The cross shaped member 231 can operate with the connector 201 especially since the small projection 165 and small void 171 can still be used in conjunction with this shape. In this case, it is preferable for the space 169 of either the substantiated connector portion 167 or the connector 201 to conform to the shape of the member, whether it be member 231, 151, 153, or 155. In all cases, the tip ends of the members 231, 151, 153, or 155 can be made into a point and fit nearly exactly as shown in FIGS. 20-26. The small projection 165 could be located on member 151 in any radial position, but with the "H" shaped member 153, the projection would most likely lie on the horizontal connection portion of the "H" member. The triangular shaped member 155 would most likely be rounded, as would be the hexagonal shaped member 151, and the small projection could be located in any radial plane. This cross sectional shaped member 231 not only provides more than adequate structural support, but also accentuates the play of light on or through the member 231. The opposite orientation of the supports 25 again facilitates the manufacture of the member 231 by providing a bi-lateral symmetry which can easily be removed from an injection mold. While the present invention has been described in terms of a structural support system for plants, one skilled in the art will realize that the structure and techniques of the present invention can be applied to many such structural appliances. The present invention may be applied in any situation where a multiple number of quick attach and quick release mechanism are to be provided. Although the invention has been derived with reference to particular illustrative embodiments thereof, many changes and modifications of the invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, included within the patent warranted hereon are all such changes and modifications as may reasonably and properly be included within the scope of this contribution to the art.
A plant system is preferably made of plastic and even more preferably made of clear acrylic structural members. Such acrylic members take on the color of the surrounding plants and "blend" into the background created by the plants. The acrylic members have abbreviated length attachment members which extend from opposite sides of the structural members, and the attachment members have a differing diameter. The outermost portion has a smaller diameter which facilitates the initial overfitting of a plastic strap having a plurality of apertures. The strap is moved to surround the plant portion to be supported and the other end's aperture is also fitted over the attachment member. The resulting loop extends widely around the plant portion giving it adequate room for growth and further extension through the loop. The system, including the structural members and attachment members can be interconnected using a series of connectors to form a trellis or other support shape.
0
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-421992, filed on Dec. 19, 2003, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a cabinet configured to contain a desired device and to have, on a side portion thereof, an additional device which operates in association with or in parallel with the desired device, and it relates to the additional device. 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, various operators employ cabinets in compliance with the EIA standard or the JIS standard to accommodate many devices such as routers and servers of a data communication network which are given maintenance and expansion when necessary, the cabinet containing these devices together in the same site or office premise (may be a single rack). FIG. 10( a ) and FIG. 10( b ) show a structural example (1) of a conventional cabinet. FIG. 11 shows a structural example (2) of the conventional cabinet. As shown in FIG. 10( a ), FIG. 10( b ), and FIG. 11 , the conventional cabinet is composed of the following elements: (1) A cylinder 52 made of metal (aluminum or the like) having: two apertures with one edge folded with a margin of a prescribed width (assumed here to be small to such an extent as not to close the aperture) at a right angle in a direction of the axis of the cylinder; attached thereto a printed board 51 with components constituting a desired device (a router or the like) mounted in a hollow portion thereof; and a cross section thereof in a rectangular shape; (2) A front cover 53 : connected to an electronic circuit (including later-described receptacles 51 R- 1 , 51 R- 2 ) on the printed board 51 ; having attached thereto electronic components used for connection of the electronic circuit to a man-machine interface and to an exterior; fitted (or fastened) to the aperture of the aforesaid cylinder 52 with no folded edge; having in advance a slit or the like corresponding to a ventilation path to the exterior in advance and preventable of radiation of electro magnetic interference generated in the electronic circuit to the exterior; (3) A decorative frame 56 having a cross section in a substantially U shape and covering the aforesaid cylinder 52 and both of cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 (assumed here that a width w thereof is half (=W/2) a width W (<19 inch) of the aforesaid aperture, and a thickness t thereof is equal to a thickness T of this aperture) containing later-described two power supply units 54 - 1 , 54 - 2 (the power supply unit 54 - 2 is omitted in FIG. 10( a ) and FIG. 10( b ) in order to clearly show the inside of the cylinder 52 ) adjacent to the aperture, the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 being made of metal in a rectangular parallelepiped shape to contain part of the power supply units 54 - 1 , 54 - 2 respectively. The aforesaid cabinet 55 - 1 is formed in the following manner: (1) A bending margin that is equal in size and shape to the aforesaid bending margin is reserved in an aperture at the one aperture of the cylinder 52 , and the bending margin is bent at a right angle in a direction so as to narrow this aperture. (2) A bottom of the cabinet 55 - 1 is formed as a detachable metal plate 55 B- 1 . (3) Two air vents 57 - 11 , 57 - 12 and two decorative screws 58 - 11 , 58 - 12 rotatable from an exterior are attached to predetermined positions of the plate 55 B- 1 , and fans 59 - 11 , 59 - 12 are mounted inside the air vents 57 - 11 , 57 - 12 . (4) Screw holes formed in the bending margins of the apertures of the cabinet 55 - 1 and the cylinder 52 , for a predetermined number of screws to screw-fix the cabinet 55 - 1 and the cylinder 52 to each other. Further, the power supply unit 54 - 1 is constituted of the following elements: (1) a printed board 61 fixed to the aforesaid plate 55 B- 1 at one end and having at the other end thereof a plug 60 P- 1 fitted to the receptacle 51 R- 1 ; and (2) a power supply circuit 62 - 1 formed on the printed board 61 - 1 to supply power to the circuit disposed on the printed board 51 via the aforesaid plug 60 P- 1 and receptacle 51 R- 1 and to drive the fans 59 - 11 , 59 - 12 . Since the structures of the power supply units 54 - 2 and the cabinet 55 - 2 are the same as those of the power supply unit 54 - 1 and the cabinet 55 - 1 respectively, explanation and illustration thereof will be omitted here, and the same reference numerals and symbols with a suffix number ‘2’ instead of ‘ 1 ’ will be used to designate corresponding portions. A device including the cabinet as configured above is assembled in the following procedure. (1) The printed board 51 whose assembly has been finished is mounted in the hollow portion of the cylinder 52 . (2) The front cover 53 is attached to the other aperture of the cylinder 52 . (3) The decorative screws 58 - 11 , 58 - 12 , 58 - 21 , 58 - 22 are screwed off from the power supply units 54 - 1 , 54 - 2 whose assembly has been finished, and the plates 55 B- 1 , 55 B- 2 are detached from the bottoms of the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 . It is assumed that even during this process, power supply routes to the fans 59 - 11 , 59 - 12 are kept via lead wires connected to the power supply circuits 62 - 1 , 62 - 2 respectively. (4) Screws used for screw-fixing the apertures of the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 to the one aperture of the cylinder 52 from the bottom (holes formed by the aforesaid detachment of the plates 55 B- 1 , 55 B- 2 ) side of the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 . (5) The bottoms of the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 are closed with the plates 55 B- 1 , 55 B- 2 through performing the above procedure in reverse ( 3 ). (6) The decorative frame 56 is placed to cover an external wall except bottom faces of the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 and the cylinder 52 . A prior art to enhance or maintain high stiffness of a cabinet similarly to the present invention is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2001-148578. In the above-described conventional example, in order to prevent radiation of electronic magnetic interference generated in the electronic circuit disposed on the printed board 51 to the exterior of the cabinet, it is necessary to electrically tightly connect the cylinder 52 to the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 by the aforesaid screw-fixing or to similarly maintain stable and close electrical connection between the cylinder 52 and the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 via conductive springs 71 or the like as shown by ( 1 ) in FIG. 12 . Further, the springs 71 give a strong pressure to the apertures of the cylinder 52 and the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 . Generally, however, the cylinder 52 and the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 are preferably thin and made of light-weight metal so that the cylinder 52 is required to have a reinforcing member 72 at least near the aperture in order to prevent it from deforming against the pressure as shown by ( 2 ) in FIG. 12 . However, the bending margin of the aperture of the cylinder 52 reduces the volume of an available space in the hollow portion of the cylinder 52 in which desired components including the aforesaid printed board 51 are disposed. In addition, even without such a bending margin, the available space is narrowed by the aforesaid reinforcing member 72 and the springs 71 , which possibly prevents desired high density assembly and downsizing of the cylinder. Moreover, in the conventional example, the cylinder 52 and the cabinets 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 are electrically closely coupled in order to suppress radiation of the electro magnetic interference in a high-frequency band ranging from several mega hertz to several gigahertz generated in the electronic circuit on the printed board 51 and of the electro magnetic interference in a bandwidth of several hundred kilohertz or less generated in the power supply circuits 62 - 1 , 62 - 2 during the process of voltage conversion by switching. Therefore, for example, with the power supply unit 54 - 2 detached for replacement or not mounted, the power supply and forced air cooling relies on the power supply unit 54 - 1 , so that an expensive shield has to be provided in order to prevent the radiation of the electro magnetic interference in a high-frequency band. Moreover, in the conventional example, the heat release efficiency of the electronic circuit lowers if either of the power supply units 54 - 1 , 54 - 2 is not mounted or either of the fans incorporated therein is in fault. Therefore, it is required to set the performance or the rotation speed of the fans 59 - 11 , 59 - 12 , 59 - 21 , 59 - 22 with a sufficient margin so as to maintain the operational temperature of the electronic circuit while the power is continuously supplied to the electronic circuit. Generally, when power supply units to be plugged into the cabinets of individual devices do not incorporate fans, the larger the number of devices contained in the rack and the thinner the thickness of the cabinets in which the bodies of the devices are mounted, with higher assembly density many power supply units and fans are mounted. Besides, it is difficult to make air exhaustion or suction in the same direction by the fans. In such a case, it is likely that the size of the cabinets of the devices contained in the same rack increases since the rack needs to have complex ventilation paths for the purpose of compensating or adapting to the exhaustion and suction in various directions. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a cabinet that can contain various devices and to which a desired additional device closely related to the contained devices is detachably, securely attached, without great increase in manufacturing cost or any structural complication, and to provide the additional device. It is another object of the present invention to reduce the weight and size of a device and a system to which the present invention is applied and realize high density assembly thereof as well as to make the device and system be adaptable to various system configurations, without increasing manufacturing cost and restrictions on thermal design, and complexing the structure. It is still another object of the present invention to stably and securely attach/detach the additional device to/from the cylinder (also referred to herein as a housing) of the cabinet even if the thickness or hardness of the cylinder is small because the cabinet of the additional device can have a resisting force against bending force physically acting on or around the aperture of the cylinder. It is yet another object of the present invention to make a desired device contained in the cabinet of the present invention adaptable to not only various shapes and dimension of additional devices but also the system configurations and conditions thereof and to prevent abrupt or great decrease in efficiency of forced air cooling of an electronic device contained in the cylinder. It is yet another object of the present invention to maintain high efficiency of the aforesaid forced air cooling without setting performance of a fan provided in each of the additional devices to an unnecessarily high level, or consuming large power for driving the fans. It is yet another object of the present invention to improve efficiency and availability of the cabinet and additional device with regard to the maintenance and operation thereof and to enhance total reliability thereof. It is yet another object of the present invention to increase, compared with conventional examples, upper limit values of the volumes of an electronic device contained in a cylinder and of an additional device attached to the aperture of the cylinder, or to decrease the size of the cabinet of the present invention and change the shape thereof freely. It is yet another object of the present invention to suppress or reduce electro magnetic interference caused by an electronic device even while an additional device is not inserted into the aperture of the cylinder. It is yet another object of the present invention to closely fit, with a strong pressure, the cabinet of an additional device into the aperture of a cabinet containing an electronic device with low cost and without structural complication, compared with a case where stiffness of the aperture of the cabinet containing the electronic device is not reinforced with having a folded edge. It is yet another object of the present invention to make it possible to not only replace power sources according to difference or increase/decrease in load of electronic devices but also standardize the structure of the power sources and electronic devices. It is yet another object of the present invention to perform air exhaustion or suction in the same direction or in an integrated manner with easiness during a process of forced air cooling of an electronic device. The present invention is applied as follows. A first cabinet according to the present invention has a conductive cylinder containing an electronic device. The cylinder has an aperture with a folded edge. Further, an additional device operating in parallel with the aforesaid electronic device is fitted into this aperture. A reinforcing member is supported with a portion of an inner wall of the cylinder and disposed on a boundary between two areas in the cylinder where the electronic device and the additional device are placed, respectively. The portion of the inner wall is more inside than a folded edge of the aperture. Therefore, folding the edge of the aperture of the cylinder can increase the stiffness of the aperture, and the provision of the reinforcing member also heightens the physical strength of the inner wall of the cylinder including the vicinity of the folded portion of the aperture, even though the aperture is given pressure in an outward direction from the cabinet of the inserted additional device. Consequently, It is possible to stably and securely attach/detach the additional device to/from the cylinder even if the thickness or hardness of the cylinder is small because the cabinet of the additional device can have a resisting force against bending force physically acting on or around the aperture of the cylinder. A second cabinet according to the present invention includes a conductive cylinder containing an electronic device. The cylinder has an aperture with a folded edge. Further, a plurality of additional devices operating in parallel with the aforesaid electronic device are fitted into the aperture with a folded edge. A reinforcing member is supported with a portion of an inner wall of this cylinder, and disposed on a boundary between two areas in the cylinder where the electronic device and all of the plurality of additional devices are placed, respectively. The portion of the inner wall is more inside than the folded edge of the aperture. Therefore, folding the edge of the aperture of the cylinder can increase the stiffness of the aperture, and the provision of the reinforcing member also heightens the physical strength of the inner wall of the cylinder including the vicinity of the folded portion of the aperture, even though the aperture is given pressure in an outward direction from the cabinet of the inserted additional devices. Consequently, It is possible to stably and securely attach/detach the additional devices to/from the cylinder even if the thickness or hardness of the cylinder is small because the cabinet of the additional device can have a resisting force against bending force physically acting on or around the aperture of the cylinder. A third cabinet according to the present invention includes a partitioning member which partitions the aforesaid aperture into areas into which the additional devices are fitted and is a bypass path for forced air cooling in these areas. Each of the plurality of additional devices has a fan used for the forced air cooling of the electronic device. In other words, the partitioning member helps normally operating fans, of the fans provided in the aforesaid plural devices, distribute load of the forced air cooling even though the aperture of the cylinder is divided into a plurality of apertures in conformity with the shapes and dimensions of the devices inserted into the aperture. This makes it possible to allow a desired device contained in the cabinet of the present invention to be adaptable to not only various shapes and dimensions of additional devices but also the system configurations and conditions thereof and to prevent abrupt or great decrease in efficiency of forced air cooling of an electronic device contained in the cylinder. A fourth cabinet according to the present invention includes a control unit which increases/decreases rotation speed of the fans provided in the plurality of additional devices, according to the number of the fans or operational conditions of the fans, to maintain efficiency of the forced air cooling within a prescribed range. In other words, fans provided in additionally devices actually mounted on the cabinet and normally operating can compensate all or part of loads of the forced air cooling if some of the plurality of additional devices are not actually mounted on the cabinet or they are mounted but the fans therein do not normally operate. Consequently, it is possible to maintain high efficiency of the aforesaid forced air cooling without setting performance of a fan provided in each of the additional devices to an unnecessarily high level, or consuming large power for driving the fans. In a fifth cabinet according to the present invention, the cylinder includes a covering member having an edge that is all or part of the edge of the aforesaid aperture, and used for opening/closing the above-mentioned two areas, and detachably supporting the reinforcing member. Therefore, with the aforesaid covering member detached, it is more facilitated to attach/detach, adjust, inspect and so on the electronic device and additional devices than with no provision of such a covering member. Consequently, it is able to improve the efficiency and availability of the cabinet of the invention with regard to maintenance and operation and to enhance total reliability thereof. In a sixth cabinet according to the present invention, the reinforcing member adjacent to the covering member has a specific edge which is shaped to be in parallel with the covering member. The covering member has a member to pinch the specific edge. Therefore, without any large member attached inside the cylinder it is able to give to the aperture stiffness and physical strength enough to securely, stably have the additional device attached thereto with low cost. Consequently, it is possible to increase, compared with conventional examples, upper limit values of the volumes of the electronic device contained in the cylinder and of the additional device attached to the aperture of the cylinder, or to decrease the size of the cabinet of the present invention and change the shape thereof freely. In a seventh cabinet according to the present invention, the reinforcing member has an opening for heat release from the electronic device to the aforesaid aperture and for suppression of radiation of electro magnetic interference generated in the electronic device to the aperture. The reinforcing member acts as a shielding member to suppress the radiation of the electro magnetic interference generated in the electronic device without obstructing heat release from the electronic device. This makes it possible to suppress or reduce the electro magnetic interference by the electronic device even while the additional device is not inserted into the aperture of the cylinder. A first additional device according to the present invention includes a first conductive cabinet containing an electronic device. The first conductive cabinet is provided with a second conductive cabinet having a first aperture to be fitted by inserting into an aperture with a folded edge. The second conductive cabinet further contains a circuit that operates in parallel with the electronic device. The first aperture of the conductive cabinet containing the circuit has a shape and dimension and made of materials to be fitted into the aforesaid aperture of the conductive cabinet with the folded edge containing the electronic device. Consequently, given a strong pressure, the above-mentioned aperture insertion is tightly made with low cost, without structural complication, compared with a case where stiffness of the aperture of the cabinet containing the electronic device is not reinforced with having a folded edge. A second additional device according to the present invention has a circuit to supply power to the electronic device. In this case the power source to supply power to the electronic device is contained as an additional device in another cabinet that is to be fitted into the aperture of the first cabinet containing the electronic device. This makes it possible to replace the power source according to difference or increase/decrease in load among the electronic devices as well as to standardize the structure of the power source and electronic device, compared with a case where such a power source is integrally incorporated in the electronic device. A third additional device according to the present invention uses a fan for forced air cooling of the electronic device via the first aperture. In other words the additional device contained in another cabinet fitted into the aperture of the cabinet containing the electronic device includes the fan used for the forced air cooling of the electronic device in addition to the circuit for supplying power to the electronic device. This realizes reduction in the types and number of the additional devices to be contained in another cabinet, and also realizes exhaustion or suction in the same direction, or integration of the exhaustion and suction during the process of the aforesaid forced air cooling the directions. In a fourth additional device according to the present invention, the second conductive cabinet of the above-described third additional device has a second aperture to serve as a bypass path for ventilation in the process of the forced air cooling which is provided between the additional device and another additional device disposed adjacent to the additional device. When another additional device is disposed adjacent to the additional device according to the present invention, and one of the fans provided in these additional devices is in fault or in halt, the other fan in normal operation can compensate all or part of loads of the forced air cooling via the second aperture. This enables a desired device contained in the cabinet of the invention to be adaptable to not only various shapes and dimensions of the additional devices but also various system configurations and operational conditions thereof. Also, this results in preventing abrupt or great decrease in efficiency of the aforesaid forced air cooling. A fifth additional device according to the present invention additionally includes a control unit which increases/decreases the rotation speed of fans according to operational conditions of the fans provided in a specific additional device of the present invention and in another additional device that is fitted into the aperture of the first cabinet, to maintain efficiency of the forced air cooling within a prescribed range. Accordingly, the fans provided in actually mounted additional devices and normally operating are able to compensate all or part of loads of the forced air cooling if some of the additional devices are not mounted or the fans in the mounted devices do not normally operate. Consequently, it is possible to maintain high efficiency of the forced air cooling without setting the performance of the fans to an unnecessarily high level, or consuming large power for driving these fans. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The nature, principle, and utility of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like parts are designated by identical reference numbers, in which: FIG. 1 is an assembly view of first to third embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of an essential part of the first to third embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 3( a ) and FIG. 3( b ) show the detailed inner structure of the first to third embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4( a ) and FIG. 4( b ) show the process of opening/closing a cabinet according to the first to third embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 5( a ) and FIG. 5( b ) show the process of mounting a power supply unit in the first to third embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 6( a ) and FIG. 6( b ) are charts to explain the operation of the first and second embodiments of the present invention FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the detailed structure of the third embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the operation of the third embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 9 is a table to explain the operation of the third embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 10( a ) and FIG. 10( b ) show a structural example (1) of a conventional cabinet; FIG. 11 shows a structural example (2) of the conventional cabinet; and FIG. 12 shows a problem of the conventional example. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be explained in detail based on the drawings. FIG. 1 is an assembly view of a first to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of an essential part of the first to third embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3( a ) and FIG. 3( b ) are views showing the state in which a top cover is detached from a cabinet according to the first to third embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 4( a ) and FIG. 4( b ) are views showing the process of opening/closing the cabinet according to the first to third embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 5( a ) and FIG. 5( b ) are views showing the process of mounting a power supply unit in the first to third embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 5( b ), the cabinet according to the first to third embodiments of the present invention is composed of a base 11 , a front cover 12 , and a top cover 13 , and the basic structures of the base 11 , front cover 12 , and top cover 13 are as follows. The base 11 is composed of the following elements: a bottom plate 111 BP being a rectangular metal plate having screw holes used for fixing the aforesaid printed board 51 , and two rectangular cutout portions 11 N-R, 11 N-L, in one of shorter sides thereof, arranged symmetrical with respect to the center of the shorter side, and the metal plate being used for grounding an electronic circuit disposed on the printed board 51 ; a pair of side frames 11 SF-R, 11 SF-L being metal plates in a substantially U shape and joined to two longer sides of the aforesaid bottom plate 111 BP respectively; partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L being made of metal or metal pieces in a rectangular parallelepiped shape having later-described first slits in lattice, and having the same length to set an interval between themselves and the printed board 51 to a predetermined value, and protrudingly provided in parallel with the longer sides of the bottom plate 11 BP with their ends on three protruding portions, which are other than the aforesaid cutout portions 11 N-R, 11 N-L, on the aforesaid shorter side of the bottom plate 11 BP; and a reinforcing frame 11 ST: joined to the bottom plate 11 BP (( 1 ) in FIG. 2 ) with its one end; being a molded metal plate in a substantially L shape (( 2 ) in FIG. 2 ) including all of one ends and a predetermined length of top portions of the partitioning plates 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L; fixed to the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L by screwing or the like; and having later-described second slits in lattice. Note that it will be hereinafter assumed that later-described connectors 11 J-R, 11 J-L are disposed on the printed board 51 in addition to the aforesaid circuit. The front cover 12 has the following structure. (1) It is formed as a molded conductive member with a shape and dimension to suppress radiation of electro magnetic interference caused by components on the printed board 51 used for man machine interface via the front cover 12 . (2) It has a groove fitted to one shorter side of the bottom plate 11 BP and to edges of the side frames 11 SF-R, 11 SF-L, more specifically, edges continuing from or close to this shorter side, and it also has a later-described suction port. The top cover 13 is formed by machining a metal plate as follows. (1) A pair of sidewalls 13 SW-R, 13 SW-L are formed, which are fixable to the side frames 11 SF-R, 11 SF-L by screws and slidable along external walls of the side frames 11 SF-R, 11 SF-L. (2) Bent portions 13 B-R, 13 B-L are formed that are abuttable on and screw-fixable to one ends of the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-L, and coupled to the aforesaid sidewalls 13 SW-R, 13 SW-L respectively. (3) Cutout portions 13 N-R, 13 N-L and a bent portion 13 B-C are formed, positioning at the boundary between the cutout portions 13 N-R, 13 N-L, the cutout portions being abuttable on and screw-fixable to one end of the partitioning member 11 P-C and formed by extending the aforesaid cutout portions 11 N-R, 11 N-L toward a top portion of the top cover 13 . (4) An edge 13 E is formed that has a cross section in a substantially U shape and is fittable to the front cover 12 together with the bottom plate 11 BP and the side frames 11 SF-R, 11 SF-L. Further, detachable power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L (also referred to herein as additional devices) are mounted in the aforesaid pair of cutout portions 11 N-R, 13 N-R and pair of cutout potions 11 N-L, 13 N-L, and the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L are composed of the following elements. Note that what are common to the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L are hereinafter denoted by reference numerals of corresponding elements with a suffix ‘b’ that can represent both the suffixes R and L. (1) A power supply cover 14 C-b: formed of a metal plate which is bent in a U shape and whose edge is molded in a shape to be fitted into the cutout portions 11 N-b, 13 N-b; used for grounding a later-described power supply circuit; and having a fan 14 F-b, a radiation fin 14 R-b, a breaker 14 CB-b, and so on attached to a top portion thereof. (2) a printed board 14 PCB-b: fixed to the power supply cover 14 C-b; and on which disposed are a power supply circuit including the aforesaid radiation fin 14 R-b and the breaker 14 CB-b, a control circuit for driving the aforesaid fan 14 F-b, and a connector 14 P-b used for connection to physical lines necessary for power supply to the circuit disposed on the printed board 51 and for association with this circuit (both are achieved via the aforesaid connector 11 J-b). Note that an exhaust port formed in the top portion of the power supply cover 14 C-b and used for exhaust via the fan 14 F-b is constituted as a set of slits that satisfy the same conditions as those of later-described first slits, or covered with a net-shaped member having such slits that are formed in advance. [First Embodiment] FIG. 6( a ) and FIG. 6( b ) are charts to explain the operation of the first and second embodiments of the present invention. Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 6( b ). Edges of the bottom plate 11 BP and the top cover 13 in which the cutout portions 11 N-b, 13 N-b are formed respectively are folded with predetermined margins as shown in (a) and (b) in FIG. 2 . Hereinafter, these edges will be referred to as folded portions. Further, as shown in FIG. 2 , a support metal fitting 13 P is attached to an inner wall of the top cover 13 which is distant from the folded portion with a predetermined length. The support metal fitting 13 P is a metal piece with a shape and dimension to insert the reinforcing frame 11 ST thereto and support the edge. The power supply cover 14 C-b is formed in a shape and dimension and of a material so as to ensure elasticity and stiffness to attach/detach the power supply unit 14 -b (also referred to herein as an additional device) from/to the edge thereof (hereinafter, referred to as an inserted portion) which is inserted into a space between the aforesaid folded portions of the bottom plate 11 BP and the top cover 13 . An assembly process of the cabinet according to this embodiment is as follows: (1) As shown in FIG. 3( a ) and FIG. 3( b ), the printed board 51 (a desired electronic circuit whose basic operation check has been finished is incorporated thereon) is mounted on the bottom plate 11 BP, and the front cover 12 is fitted to the bottom plate 11 BP by insertion. (2) The inner wall of the top cover 13 slides along the external walls of the side frames 11 SF-R, 11 SF-L and the top portion of the reinforcing frame 11 ST (the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L) as shown in FIG. 4( a ) and FIG. 4( b ). The top cover 13 (which corresponds to the specific edge of the reinforcing member described in a sixth cabinet according to the present invention and the cabin in claim 7 ) is fitted with the front cover 12 as shown in FIG. 5( a ) and FIG. 5( b ), and the top cover 13 has the support metal fitting 13 P on its inner wall to pinch the edge of the reinforcing frame 11 ST between the inner wall and the support metal fitting 13 p shown in ( 3 ) in FIG. 2 . (3) The top cover 13 (including the aforesaid bent portions 13 B-R, 13 B-C, 13 B-L) is screw-fixed to the side frames 11 SF-R, 11 SF-L and the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L. (4) The printed board 14 PCB-b is inserted into an aperture as the cutout portion 11 N-b or 13 N-b between the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C (or 11 P-C, 11 P-L), thereby fitting the aforesaid connector 14 P-b with the connector 11 J-b (mounted on the printed board 51 ) and inserting a portion of the power supply cover 14 C-b into a space between the aforesaid folded portions of the bottom plate 111 BP and the top cover 13 (( 4 ) in FIG. 2 ). In the cabinet thus assembled, the folded portions of the bottom plate 11 BP and the top cover 13 is given a pressure in an outward direction of the cabinet by the inserted portion of the power supply covers 14 C-b (( 5 ) in FIG. 2 ). However, the folded portions are folded in a the above-described manner so that when they can have strength large enough to resist a physically acting bending force thereon due to the inserted power supply cover 14 C-b, even when the bottom plate 11 BP and the top cover 13 are made of thin metal plates. Further, in the vicinity of the folded portion of the top cover 13 , a portion of the reinforcing frame 11 ST is inserted into an area sandwiched by the inner wall of the top cover 13 and the support metal fitting 13 P. The reinforcing frame 11 ST is fixed to the bottom plate 11 BP, the top portions of the partitioning plates 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L attached to the bottom plate 11 BP, so that it is possible to prevent or sufficiently reduce the bending due to the aforesaid pressure with high reliability even when the bottom plate 11 BP and the top cover 13 are made of thin metal plates. Further, the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L includes the first slits with a pitch having such a shape and dimension as to suppress radiation of: electro magnetic interference to the power supply unit 14 - b , the electromagnetic magnetic interference (hereinafter, referred to as high-frequency electromagnetic interference) generated in the electronic circuit disposed on the printed board 51 and having a higher frequency band that is higher than that of electro magnetic interference (hereinafter, referred to as low-frequency electro magnetic interference) generated in the power supply circuit provided in the power supply unit 14 - b ; and contrariwise, the low-frequency electro magnetic interference to the printed board 51 ( FIG. 6( a )). The reinforcing frame 11 ST has second slits with such a shape and dimension and at a pitch as to satisfy both of the following conditions. (1) To suppress the radiation of both of the high-frequency electro magnetic interference to the power supply unit 14 b and of the low-frequency electro magnetic interference to the printed board 51 ( FIG. 6( a )). (2) Not to obstruct the airflow through ventilation paths (from the suction port formed in the front cover 12 to the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L) for the aforesaid forced air cooling of the electronic circuit, and the degree of obstruction being allowably low. The inserted portion of the power supply cover 14 C-b is in physically and electrically close contact with the folded portions of the top cover 13 since the physical strength of the folded portions of the top cover 13 is secured by the folding as described above and a resisting force against the bending of the top cover 13 is ensured by engaging the support metal fitting 13 P with the edge of the reinforcing frame 11 ST. Therefore, it is possible to reliably suppress the radiation of the low-frequency electro magnetic interference generated in the power supply cover 14 C-b to the exterior from spaces which are surrounded by the bottom plate 11 BP, the reinforcing frame 11 ST, the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C ( 11 P-C, 11 P-L), and in which the power supply units 14 - b are to be mounted, respectively. Thus, this embodiment realizes enhancement in the mechanical strength and the stable efficiency of the forced air cooling as well as the shielding of the internally generated electro magnetic interference without greatly narrowing the inner space, even though the bottom plate 11 BP, the reinforcing frame 11 ST, the top cover 13 , and the power supply covers 14 C-b are formed of thin metal plates. Therefore, an electronic device to which this embodiment is applied is able to reduce its size and weight with low cost without any deterioration in performance, and it also can have considerably higher density assembly than that in conventional examples with relaxation of restrictions on thermal design. [Second Embodiment] Hereinafter, the second embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 6( b ). The characteristics of the second embodiment are the shape, dimension, and pitch of the first slits formed in the partitioning member 11 P-C. The partitioning member 11 P-C has first slits having a shape and dimension, and with a pitch to suppress, as described above, the radiation of high-frequency electro magnetic interference to the power supply unit 14 - b and of low-frequency electro magnetic interference to the printed board 51 , and in addition, to form bypass paths coupled to each other with a desired degree of tightness between two ventilation paths from the suction port formed in the front cover 12 to the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L. Incidentally, the first slits in the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-L may be similarly formed with such shape and dimension and at such a pitch as described above. In this embodiment, paths for bi-directional ventilation are also formed between the first and second ventilation paths formed respectively by the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L provided in the respective two power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L. For example, in any of the following conditions, these ventilation paths are substantially integrated by the fan 14 F-L in the power supply unit 14 -L via the first slits formed in the partitioning member 11 -C, as shown in FIG. 6( b ). (1) Between the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L, to operate based on the active redundancy system, only the power supply unit 14 -L is mounted and is in normal operation. (2) Between the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L to operate based on active redundancy the fan 14 F-R mounted in the power supply unit 14 -R is in fault (stopped), and only the power supply unit 14 -L is mounted, and in normal operation. Consequently, according to this embodiment, a fan provided in the power supply unit is able to stably continue forced air cooling with desired efficiency even while the operation relies only on a single power supply unit (including a period when the power supply unit 14 -R or 14 -L is given maintenance or replaced). [Third Embodiment] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the detailed structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. In the drawing, an office power source is connected to an input of a power supply circuit 14 PS-b provided in the power supply unit 14 - b (disposed on the printed board 14 PCB-b) via a not-shown terminal board (assumed here to be disposed on the power supply cover 14 C-b), and an output of the power supply circuit 14 PS-b is connected to the following terminals provided in the fan 14 F-b and to a corresponding pin of the connector 14 P-b. (1) A terminal used for supplying power (power for fan driving) to the fan 14 F-b. (2) A terminal used for supplying a control signal indicating one of two different rotation speeds to be set for the fan 14 F-b (assumed here for simplicity to indicate that the rotation speed is to be set higher when its logical value is ‘1’ and indicate that the rotation speed is to be set low when its logical value is ‘0’). (3) A terminal used for supplying a warning signal indicating whether the fan 14 F-b is in normal operation. (4) A terminal used for applying a predetermined voltage (hereinafter, a signal indicating one of two different states, namely, whether such a voltage is applied or not, is referred to as a mount signal) to an exterior of the fan 14 F-b (power supply unit 14 - b ) only when the fan 14 F-b (power supply unit 14 - b ) is mounted. On the printed board 51 disposed are the aforesaid electronic circuit to which power is supplied in parallel by the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L via the aforesaid connectors 11 J-R, 11 J-L, and a control unit 51 CNT supplied with power along with the electronic circuit and exchanging the aforesaid control signal, warning signal, and mount signal with the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L via the connectors 11 J-R, 11 J-L. Note that, hereinafter, the control signal, the warning signal, and the mount signal supplied via a connector 14 P-R and the connector 11 J-R will be referred to as a control signal R, a warning signal R, and a mount signal R respectively, and the control signal, the warning signal, and the mount signal supplied via a connector 14 P-L and the connector 11 J-L will be referred to as a control signal L, a warning signal L, and a mount signal L respectively. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the operation of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a table to explain the operation of the third embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the operation of this embodiment will be explained with reference to FIG. 7 to FIG. 9 as well as to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 . The control unit 51 CNT monitors the aforesaid warning signal R, mount signal R, warning signal L, and mount signal L at a predetermined frequency and judges whether or not power is normally supplied by each of the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L. The control unit 51 CNT further performs the following operations according to the results of such monitoring and judgment. (1) Determination of the system configuration of the power supply units To judge whether or not voltages of the mount signal R, and the mount signal L are equal to the aforesaid predetermined voltage (( 1 ) in FIG. 8 ): If the results of the judgments are YES, to determine that the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L are operating based on active redundancy (hereinafter, referred to as duplex operation) (( 2 ) in FIG. 8 ); and If, on the other hand, one of the judgment results is NO, to discriminate the corresponding power supply unit (hereinafter, referred to as an unmounted power supply unit), and to determine that the electronic circuit operates with one of the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L not mounted (hereinafter, referred to as single system operation) (( 3 ) in FIG. 8 ). (2) Judgment on whether or not the power supply units are in normal operation To determine whether the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L are normally supplying power (hereinafter, referred to as normal power supply units) based on the difference between the voltages of power supply lines connected to outputs, and proper values of the voltages (( 4 ) and ( 5 ) in FIG. 8 ). (3) Judgment on whether or not the fans are in normal operation: To judge whether or not each of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L is in normal operation, based on the logical values of the warning signal R and the warning signal L; and To discriminate the fan(s) with a negative judgment result (hereinafter, referred to as faulty fans) from the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L (( 6 ) and ( 7 ) in FIG. 8 ). (4) In the single system operation, to set the logical value of the control signal to ‘1’ (indicating that the rotation speed is set high), the control signal being to be given only to either of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L which is provided in the one determined as normal and is not the faulty fan. (5) In the duplex operation, to determine in what state the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L are at this moment (hereinafter, referred to as a current state) from the following states (( 9 ) in FIG. 8 ): A first state in which both of the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L are normal and neither of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L respectively provided therein are the faulty fans (( 3 ) in FIG. 9 ); A second state in which one of the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L is not normal and neither of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L respectively provided therein are the faulty fans (( 4 ) and ( 5 ) in FIG. 9 ); A third state in which one of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L is the faulty fan (( 6 ) and ( 7 ) in FIG. 9 ). (6) To supply or stop power to each of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L according to the determined current state, and to set the logical value of the control signal (( 10 ) in FIG. 8 ): If the current state is the first state, to supply power to both of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L in parallel and to set the logical value of the control signal to ‘0’ (indicating that the rotation speed is set low) and give the set signal to the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L; If the current state is the second state, to supply power to both of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L by the normal power supply unit, and to set the logical value of the control signal to ‘0’ (indicating that the rotation speed is set low) and give the set signal to the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L; and If the current state is the third state, to supply power only to one of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L, being not the faulty fan (hereinafter, referred to as a normal fan) and to set the logical value of the control signal to ‘1’ (indicating that the rotation speed is set high) and to give the set signal to this normal fan. That is, one of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L in normal operation is continuously given power by the normal power supply unit(s) (both or one of the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L), and is set to have a high operation speed only while the other fan is in fault in the duplex operation or during the single system operation. Thus, according to this embodiment, increasing the rotation speed of the normal fan can compensate a decrease in the efficiency of the forced air cooling due to the faulty fan. Moreover, compared with the above-described second embodiment, according to this embodiment it is possible to maintain high efficiency of the forced air cooling of the electronic circuit disposed on the printed board 51 , or relax restrictions on the thermal design and component arrangement of the electronic circuit. It is also possible to enhance total reliability of the electronic circuit without excessive increase in power consumption or the provision of a large fan. Note that in this embodiment, the control unit 51 CNT is mounted on the printed board 51 together with the aforesaid electronic circuit. However, the present invention is not limited to such structure, and, for example, the control unit 51 CNT may be disposed on a printed board different from the printed board 51 and supported by the reinforcing frame 11 ST or the like, or two control units are separately disposed on the printed board 14 PCB-R, 14 PCB-L provided in the power supply units 14 -R, 14 R-L respectively. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L are provided in the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L respectively. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L may be structured without the respective fans 14 F-R, 14 F-L, and different fans are attached onto the bottom plate 111 BP instead together with any one of the partitioning members 11 P-R, 11 P-C, 11 P-L which may not have the aforesaid first slits formed therein. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the reinforcing frame 11 ST is inserted between the inner wall of the top cover 13 and the support metal fitting 13 P, so as to secure the strength of the top cover 13 and electrically connect the reinforcing frame 11 ST, at low impedance, to the top cover 13 which is necessary for shielding the high-frequency electro magnetic interference. However, the present invention is not limited to the above structure and, for example, it may be structured that in place of the support metal fitting 13 P, a conductive pin with the largest diameter at its top portion is protrudingly provided on the inner wall of the top cover 13 , and the reinforcing frame 11 ST may have a notch to be engaged with the side wall and the top portion of this pin. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the partitioning member 11 P-C may not include the first slits if, for example, the electronic circuit only operates in the aforesaid duplex operation, or the first slots may be large enough to allow the low-frequency electro magnetic interference to propagate to/from the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L via the partitioning member 11 P-C. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, in place of or in addition to the first slits formed in the partitioning member 11 P-C, for example, slits similar to the first slits may be formed in corresponding side faces of the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L. Moreover, the present invention is not limited to the case where the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L operate based on active redundancy in principle, and is similarly applicable to a case where the number of power supply units mounted similarly to the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L is one, or to a case where a plurality of power supply units are provided and operate based on a system other than the active redundancy system (for example, standby redundancy or N+1 stand-by system). Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the top cover 13 is tightly fixed onto the base 11 by screwing. However, the present invention is not limited to such structure, and for example, the top cover 13 and the base 11 may be constituted as an integrated cylinder as long as the printed board 51 can be contained in a predetermined location of an inner portion (a hollow portion) thereof. Moreover, in each of the above-described embodiments, the power supply units 14 -R, 14 -L are mounted at a center portion of one face of the box-shaped cabinet with a predetermined interval. However, the present invention is not limited to such structure, and such power supply units are mounted at any one of the corners of the aforesaid box-shaped cabinet. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to the cabinet in a rectangular parallelepiped shape containing the printed board 51 . However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and applicable to a cabinet in any shape and dimension. The invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Any improvement may be made in part or all of the components.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a cabinet capable of containing various devices and securely attaching/detaching an additional device thereto/therefrom, and to provide an additional device. In order to achieve the object, a cabinet according to the present invention includes: a conductive cylinder having an aperture into which the additional device is fitted by insertion and containing an electronic device, the aperture having a folded edge, the additional device operating in parallel with the electronic device; and a reinforcing member supported with a portion of an inner wall of the cylinder and disposed on a boundary between two areas inside the cylinder where the electronic device and the additional device are disposed respectively, the portion of the inner wall being more inside than the folded portion of the aperture.
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